Samsung Galaxy Buds FE vs Sony LinkBuds S
Samsung Galaxy Buds FE deliver solid value at $99 with dual-driver audio (6.5mm woofer + 5.4mm tweeter), effective ANC, and Samsung Scalable Codec optimization for Galaxy users. Sony LinkBuds S cost double at $199 but justify the premium through LDAC hi-res audio support, superior multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, lighter 4.8g design, better water resistance (IPX4 vs IPX2), and Sony's advanced QN1e chip for adaptive processing. Both offer 6 hours of ANC playback, though Sony adds 14 additional hours with the case versus Samsung's 21-hour total. For Samsung ecosystem users prioritizing budget-friendly performance, the Buds FE excel. However, audiophiles seeking hi-res wireless capability and multipoint flexibility should invest in LinkBuds S. Choose Samsung Galaxy Buds FE for best value; select Sony LinkBuds S if hi-res audio and connectivity features matter most.
Full Specifications
| Spec | Samsung Galaxy Buds FE | Sony LinkBuds S |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 5.6 g (each) | 4.8 g (per bud) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 6 hrs (ANC on), 8.5 hrs (ANC off), 21 hrs with case | 6 hrs buds (ANC on), 14 hrs additional with case |
| Charging | USB-C, wireless charging (Qi) | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Drivers | 6.5 mm (woofer) + 5.4 mm (tweeter) | 5 mm dynamic driver |
| Features | Active Noise Cancellation, Ambient mode, Samsung Scalable Codec for Galaxy devices, 360 Audio with head tracking, Touch controls, Wireless charging case | LDAC hi-res wireless audio, Integrated Processor V1 + QN1e chip, Adaptive Sound Control, Speak-to-Chat, Multipoint Bluetooth pairing, Smallest and lightest Sony ANC earbuds, Bluetooth LE Audio (LC3) |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | Samsung Scalable, AAC, SBC | LDAC, LC3, AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX2 | IPX4 (buds) |
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Samsung Galaxy Buds FE
Pros
- ANC earbuds for just $99 — best value in active noise cancellation
- Wireless charging case is rare at this price
- Dual-driver setup delivers detailed, balanced sound
- 360 Audio with head tracking for Galaxy phone users
- Compact and lightweight at 5.6 g per bud
Cons
- IPX2 water resistance is minimal — barely sweat-proof
- Best features locked to Samsung Galaxy devices
- No multipoint Bluetooth pairing
- ANC is good but not competitive with AirPods Pro or Sony
Sony LinkBuds S
Pros
- Extremely compact and lightweight — barely noticeable when worn
- LDAC hi-res audio support at a sub-$200 price
- Solid ANC performance for such a small form factor
- Multipoint Bluetooth and Bluetooth LE Audio support
- Speak-to-Chat and Adaptive Sound Control are genuinely useful
Cons
- Smaller driver means less bass depth than larger rivals
- ANC is good but not as powerful as Sony WH-1000XM5 or WF-1000XM5
- IPX4 only — not suitable for heavy sweat or rain
- Small ear tips may not seal well for all ear shapes
Related Comparisons
Explore more in headphones, see all Samsung products or all Sony products. View full details for the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE or the Sony LinkBuds S.