Samsung Galaxy Buds+ vs Sony WF-C500
The Verdict
Samsung Galaxy Buds+ deliver superior audio through dual-driver tuning (11mm woofer plus 6.5mm tweeter) tailored by AKG, creating richer mids and clearer highs compared to Sony's single 5.8mm driver. Battery performance favors Samsung with 11 hours per charge versus Sony's 10 hours, though both reach approximately 20+ hours with cases. Sony edges ahead on durability with IPX4 water resistance versus Samsung's IPX2 rating, making the WF-C500 safer for workouts or splashes. Samsung's two-way dynamic speakers and proprietary Scalable Codec provide noticeably better sound quality for Samsung device owners, while Sony's DSEE enhancement and 360 Reality Audio offer creative processing that appeals to different listeners. Neither includes active noise cancellation. At $149, Samsung costs 50% more but justifies the premium through audio engineering and longer battery life. Sony's $99 price point represents exceptional value for casual listeners seeking compact buds (5.5g versus 6.3g) with solid everyday performance. Choose Samsung if sound quality matters most and you use Galaxy devices; pick Sony for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize portability and water resistance during active use.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Buds+ if…
- →11-hour battery life per charge is outstanding for true wireless
- →Two-way speaker system produces rich, detailed audio
- →Three microphones per earbud deliver excellent call quality
Buy the Sony WF-C500 if…
- →10-hour battery life per charge is outstanding for the price
- →Compact, lightweight design disappears in the ear
- →DSEE upscaling improves compressed audio quality
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Samsung Galaxy Buds+
Pros
- 11-hour battery life per charge is outstanding for true wireless
- Two-way speaker system produces rich, detailed audio
- Three microphones per earbud deliver excellent call quality
- Wireless charging case at no extra premium
- Compact and comfortable for extended listening sessions
Cons
- No active noise cancellation
- IPX2 rating barely covers light splashes
- Ambient Sound mode has noticeable white noise
- Touch controls can be overly sensitive and accidentally triggered
Sony WF-C500
Pros
- 10-hour battery life per charge is outstanding for the price
- Compact, lightweight design disappears in the ear
- DSEE upscaling improves compressed audio quality
- IPX4 sweat resistance handles workouts
- Reliable Sony sound quality at a budget-friendly price
Cons
- No ANC or ambient sound mode
- No multipoint Bluetooth connection
- No wireless charging case
- Basic microphone quality — not ideal for calls
- SBC/AAC only — no high-resolution codecs
Full Specifications
| Spec | Samsung Galaxy Buds+ | Sony WF-C500 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 6.3 g (each) | 5.5 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 11 hrs (22 hrs total with case) | 10 hrs (20 hrs total with case) |
| Charging | USB-C or Qi wireless | USB-C |
| Drivers | Two-way driver (11mm woofer + 6.5mm tweeter) | 5.8mm driver |
| Features | Two-way dynamic speakers by AKG, Ambient Sound mode, 3 microphones per bud, Qi wireless charging, Galaxy Wearable app with EQ and touchpad settings | DSEE digital sound enhancement, 360 Reality Audio, Sony Headphones Connect app, Fast Pair for Android |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | SBC, AAC, Samsung Scalable Codec | SBC, AAC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX2 | IPX4 |
Want to compare a third product?
Add another product for a 3-way comparison.
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in headphones, see all Samsung products or all Sony products. View full details for the Samsung Galaxy Buds+ or the Sony WF-C500.