Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro vs Sony LinkBuds S
The Verdict
Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro deliver a premium experience with custom dual-driver architecture and intelligent ANC featuring three adjustable levels, plus seamless integration across Samsung devices via Auto Switch. Sony LinkBuds S prioritize portability and audio quality with LDAC hi-res codec support, multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, and a lighter 4.8g design, though their single 5mm driver and IPX4 rating are less robust. Battery life favors Sony at 6 hours with ANC on versus Samsung's 5 hours, but Samsung's quick charge provides 1 hour of playback from just 5 minutes. Sound signature differs notably: Samsung emphasizes balanced tuning with the coaxial woofer/tweeter separation, while Sony targets audiophiles with hi-res support. For Samsung ecosystem users prioritizing customization and multi-device switching, the Galaxy Buds2 Pro justify their $30 premium. Conversely, Android users wanting ultralight earbuds with superior codec support should choose the LinkBuds S. Overall, Galaxy Buds2 Pro edges ahead for feature richness and integration, though LinkBuds S offer better value for general listeners.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro if…
- →24-bit Samsung Seamless codec for Hi-Fi audio quality on Galaxy devices
- →360 Audio with head tracking creates an immersive surround experience
- →Compact and lightweight at 5.5 g per earbud for comfortable fit
Buy the Sony LinkBuds S if…
- →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
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro
Pros
- 24-bit Samsung Seamless codec for Hi-Fi audio quality on Galaxy devices
- 360 Audio with head tracking creates an immersive surround experience
- Compact and lightweight at 5.5 g per earbud for comfortable fit
- IPX7 water resistance handles sweat and rain confidently
- Voice Detect automatically pauses and enables transparency mode
Cons
- Samsung Seamless codec only works with Samsung Galaxy devices
- 5-hour ANC battery life is short — case extends to 18 hours
- No multipoint Bluetooth for dual-device connectivity
- Touch controls can be finicky and hard to activate consistently
- ANC is not as strong as Sony WF-1000XM5 or AirPods Pro 2
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
Full Specifications
| Spec | Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro | Sony LinkBuds S |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 5.5 g (each) | 4.8 g (per bud) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 5 hrs (earbuds with ANC), 18 hrs total with case | 6 hrs buds (ANC on), 14 hrs additional with case |
| Charging | USB-C, Qi wireless, 5 min = 1 hr playback | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Drivers | Custom coaxial 2-way driver (10mm woofer + 5.3mm tweeter) | 5 mm dynamic driver |
| Features | Intelligent ANC with 3 adjustable levels, 360 Audio with head tracking, SmartThings Find for locating lost earbuds, Auto Switch between Samsung devices, Voice Detect for automatic transparency mode | 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 Seamless (24-bit), AAC, SBC | LDAC, LC3, AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX7 | IPX4 (buds) |
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 Buds2 Pro or the Sony LinkBuds S.