Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro vs Sony WH-1000XM4
The Verdict
Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Sony WH-1000XM4 target different use cases entirely. The Galaxy Buds3 Pro are compact in-ear monitors weighing just 5.4g per bud, delivering 6 hours of playtime with ANC enabled and reaching 26 hours total with the case. Their dual-driver setup (10.5mm woofer plus 6.1mm planar tweeter) produces detailed sound, while 24-bit Hi-Fi audio over SSC and 360 Audio with head tracking provide immersive experiences. Battery efficiency and portability excel here, though five to six hours per charge suits shorter listening sessions. The Sony WH-1000XM4 are over-ear headphones at 254g offering 30 hours of ANC playback per charge, making them superior for extended wear. Sony's legendary noise cancellation with Dual Noise Sensor technology edges out Samsung's implementation, and LDAC hi-res codec support provides audio versatility that SSC Hi-Fi matches but doesn't exceed. However, the $100 price premium and lack of water resistance weigh against Sony. Choose Galaxy Buds3 Pro for commutes, workouts, and portability with solid audio quality. Pick the WH-1000XM4 if you need all-day comfort, superior ANC, and don't mind the bulk. These aren't direct competitors but rather tools for different lifestyles.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro if…
- →Detailed dual-driver sound with 24-bit Hi-Fi via SSC codec
- →Strong active noise cancellation rivaling AirPods Pro 2
- →Galaxy AI features like real-time Live Translate via the buds
Buy the Sony WH-1000XM4 if…
- →Class-leading active noise cancellation that blocks almost all ambient sound
- →LDAC support delivers hi-res wireless audio quality
- →Exceptional 30-hour battery life with fast charging
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro
Pros
- Detailed dual-driver sound with 24-bit Hi-Fi via SSC codec
- Strong active noise cancellation rivaling AirPods Pro 2
- Galaxy AI features like real-time Live Translate via the buds
- Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint and IP57 water resistance
- Comfortable open-style fit with pressure-relief vent
Cons
- Best features (Hi-Fi codec, 360 Audio, AI) are locked to Galaxy phones
- Touch and pinch controls can be finicky
- Stem design with LED accents looks similar to AirPods
- Battery life is only average compared to rivals
Sony WH-1000XM4
Pros
- Class-leading active noise cancellation that blocks almost all ambient sound
- LDAC support delivers hi-res wireless audio quality
- Exceptional 30-hour battery life with fast charging
- Multipoint Bluetooth connects two devices simultaneously
- Comfortable over-ear fit with plush earcups for long sessions
Cons
- Plastic build feels less premium than rivals at the same price
- Touch controls can be accidentally triggered
- No IP rating — avoid using in rain or at the gym
- Microphone quality is average for calls
Full Specifications
| Spec | Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro | Sony WH-1000XM4 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 5.4 g (per bud) | 254 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 6 hrs buds (ANC on) / 7 hrs (ANC off), up to 26 hrs total with case | 30 hrs (ANC on) |
| Charging | USB-C, Qi wireless | USB-C, 10-min quick charge for 5 hrs playback |
| Drivers | 10.5 mm dynamic woofer + 6.1 mm planar tweeter (dual-way) | 30 mm |
| Features | 24-bit Hi-Fi audio over Samsung Seamless Codec, 360 Audio with head tracking, Real-time Interpreter and Live Translate (Galaxy AI), Adaptive ANC and Adaptive EQ, Voice Detect and Siren Detect, Blade-style stem with LED accent | Industry-leading ANC with Dual Noise Sensor technology, LDAC hi-res wireless audio, Speak-to-Chat auto-pause, Adaptive Sound Control, DSEE Extreme upscaling, Multipoint Bluetooth pairing, Wearing detection |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | SSC Hi-Fi, AAC, SBC | LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.4 | 5.0 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IP57 (buds) | None |
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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.
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