AirPods 4 vs Galaxy Buds3 Pro: Best Wireless Earbuds for iPhone or Android in 2025

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AirPods 4 vs Galaxy Buds3 prois the true wireless earbuds showdown of 2025. Apple and Samsung have raised the bar again, each releasing feature-packed upgrades with improved noise cancellation, smarter ecosystem integration, and longer battery life. Whether you’re an iPhone user or an Android fan, both lineups offer compelling choices.

This comparison will break down how the AirPods 4 and Galaxy Buds3 Pro/Core stack up in real-world conditions. You’ll see the pros and cons of each, from audio performance and ecosystem fit to water resistance and call clarity. By the end, you’ll have a clear view of which earbuds fit your daily life and devices best.

AirPods 4 vs Galaxy Buds 3 Pro: Design, Fit, and Comfort

True wireless earbuds have moved beyond just sound—they need to keep up with your lifestyle, wherever you go. The AirPods 4 and Galaxy Buds3 series embrace this, combining style with all-day wear and improved durability. Below, let’s look at how each stacks up in build quality, fit, and day-to-day comfort.

Photo by Dina Nasyrova

Build Quality and Durability: Examine material quality, resilience, and water/sweat resistance ratings (AirPods 4 IP54, Galaxy Buds3 IP54/IP57).

The AirPods 4 arrive in a familiar glossy white finish with a modern stem-based profile that’s become a visual icon. Apple keeps the feel lightweight but solid. The new AirPods 4 are rated IP54, which provides limited protection against dust and water, enough for gym use and short runs in light rain. Even the charging case gets this IP54 badge, letting you toss them in a gym bag without worry about everyday spills. For more details on real-world performance and durability, check out the Apple AirPods 4 review.

The Galaxy Buds3 Core and Buds3 Pro both step up durability with rugged materials and a slightly more angular—yet comfortable—design. Samsung’s Buds3 Core matches AirPods 4 with an IP54 rating, but the Buds3 Pro moves higher to IP57. This means the Pro version can handle complete submersion in water for up to 30 minutes and is solid against dust. As a result, Samsung’s flagship option is built for more intense activities, whether it’s a sweaty HIIT class or accidental drops by the pool. You can get more info on the Buds3 Pro durability at the official Galaxy Buds3 Pro page.

Key durability features at a glance:

AirPods 4: Lightweight plastic, IP54 (dust, sweat, splash resistant).
Galaxy Buds3 Core: Rugged build, IP54 (on par with AirPods 4).
Galaxy Buds3 Pro: Rugged build, IP57 (submersion and higher dust resistance than AirPods 4).

Fit and Comfort for Different Ear Shapes: Discuss non-sealed vs in-ear canal options, with attention to security during exercise and passive noise isolation.

Apple and Samsung take different approaches to earbud fit, and your comfort will depend on your ear shape and listening habits.

AirPods 4 keep Apple’s open-tip, non-sealed design. They rest lightly in the ear, which many people find comfortable for long use since there’s less pressure on the ear canal. The downside is less passive noise blocking, so street sounds still seep in. This style works best for users who dislike the “plugged” feeling of silicone tips, and want to hear the environment while walking or working.
Galaxy Buds3 Core also uses a semi-open design, making them light and airy, but less immersive for noise isolation. By comparison, the Buds3 Pro switch to an in-ear canal fit with interchangeable silicone tips. This design increases stability and ear seal, making the Pros feel secure even during intense activity. They block out more ambient sound, giving a better foundation for active noise cancellation and letting you stay in the music zone longer.

When worn for hours, people with larger or smaller ear canals may find the in-ear Buds3 Pro more adjustable. The secure seal of the silicone tips helps prevent slipping during runs or workouts, addressing a common complaint with open designs like the AirPods 4. According to user feedback on Amazon, Galaxy Buds3 Pro users often praise the soft fit and ear stability, even over long stretches.

For all-day wear, AirPods 4 still hold the edge for effortless, barely-there comfort, especially in office or casual use. But if you prioritize deep passive noise blocking or a stay-put fit while moving, the Galaxy Buds3 Pro won’t let you down.

Fit and comfort breakdown:

AirPods 4: Open design, great for comfort and awareness, less secure and less noise isolation.
Galaxy Buds3 Core: Semi-open fit, light, moderate security, average isolation.
Galaxy Buds3 Pro: In-ear silicone tips, adjustable, best for secure fit and passive isolation.

Each design brings real benefits—prioritize comfort and an airy feel with AirPods 4, or pick Galaxy Buds3 Pro for a snug, immersive fit that won’t budge during a workout.

Audio Performance and Noise Cancellation

Whether you’re chasing the perfect playlist or taking an important work call, the right sound and silence can make all the difference. The AirPods 4 and Galaxy Buds3 Pro/Core both push audio quality and ambient control further in 2025, but the details in their sound signature, codec support, and noise cancellation might sway you.

Sound Signature and Audio Codecs: Compare supported codecs (AAC/SBC vs Samsung Seamless/Scalable), tuning differences, and performance for music, podcasts, and calls.

Photo by Swamy K

Apple continues to tune the AirPods 4 for wide appeal—think crisp vocals, airy highs, and a gentle bass boost that flatters most popular music. Apple’s Adaptive EQ smartly tweaks the sound in real time to match your ear shape, providing a consistent experience for music, podcasts, and calls alike. The supported codecs include AAC and SBC, plus Apple’s AAC-ELD which adds improved call quality especially on iOS devices. This results in minimal latency and solid reliability if you’re paired to any Apple gear, but audiophiles might notice the absence of high-res options when compared to some Android-focused buds. Curious about how codecs impact performance? The Apple AirPods 4 Headphones Review covers these details in depth.

Samsung gives the Buds3 family a bolder, punchier sound signature. The Pro model offers deeper bass and brighter treble, thanks to new driver upgrades and enhanced tuning. Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Core shine with their Samsung Scalable Codec (for Samsung phones), which delivers higher bitrates up to 512kbps. You’ll also get SBC and AAC for broad compatibility, while the “Seamless” codec on Samsung hardware further reduces latency for gaming or video. For those craving clarity on Samsung’s wireless audio approach, the full codec rundown appears on the official Galaxy Buds3 Pro page.

What does this mean day to day?

Music: AirPods 4 keep things smooth and mid-focused—great for vocal-led tracks and balanced sound, while Buds3 Pro dishes out extra kick and sparkle for a more dynamic listen.
Podcasts: Both excel in voice clarity, but Apple edges ahead with slightly warmer, more “radio-like” tones.
Calls: The improved AAC-ELD on AirPods 4 and Samsung’s multi-mic setup both give you strong clarity, though performance tightens up when used within their own brand ecosystems.

Effectiveness of Active Noise Cancellation: Analyze depth of noise cancellation, especially in different frequency ranges and environments. Reference new hardware and AI upgrades.

Both Apple and Samsung lay claim to better noise-cancelling tech, but how well do they block the distractions around you?

For AirPods 4, Apple’s ANC steps up with smarter microphones and a beefed-up H2 chip that tracks and silences both steady hums (like AC units) and sudden chaos (like subway brakes or dog barks). Apple’s AI-driven approach—Adaptive Audio—blends noise blocking and real-time ambient awareness, so you hear less of what you don’t want, and just enough of what you do. In practice, this translates to strong performance for commute noise and office chatter without that vacuum-like feeling some ANC buds create. Read more about ANC improvements in reviews from outlets such as PCMag.

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro pushes noise cancellation a notch further, especially for low frequencies. The dual-microphone system and new chipset let it suppress deep rumbles (think airplanes or subway cars) as well as disrupt sharper noises like keyboard clicks and voices. Adaptive sound tech on the Buds3 Pro analyzes your environment, then auto-adjusts ANC strength based on noise levels and your own listening habits. The in-ear fit of the Pro model, with its effective silicone seal, helps physically block noise for an immersive music experience. Environmental sound mode can be blended in at variable levels, all managed through the Samsung Wearable app. For an in-depth ANC breakdown by frequency and scenario, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro Headphones Review provides measurement-based comparisons.

Noise cancellation feature snapshots:

AirPods 4: Adaptive ANC and transparency, boosted by new Apple silicon and AI software. Great for all-around use and switching modes on the fly.
Galaxy Buds3 Pro: Strong low-frequency blocking, detailed control of ANC levels, shines in travel or noisy public spaces.

Both models offer real-time ambient adjustment and voice detection, letting you chat without pulling out an earbud. For more on how Samsung’s environment-aware tech works, their own feature guide Automatic noise adjustments on the Galaxy Buds3 Pro covers it in simple terms.

Choose AirPods 4 for blend-in silence and smooth transitions, or turn to the Galaxy Buds3 Pro if you demand serious silence in loud places. Both make noise just fade away, letting you listen your way wherever you go.

Smart Features and Integration

AirPods 4 and Galaxy Buds3 series are more than just audio companions—they act as extensions of your phone, tablet, and even your health tech. Below, we’ll break down what each platform unlocks, from lost-device recovery to health tracking and personalized controls.

Platform Ecosystem and Software Features: Detail Find My, firmware updates, compatibility, and Samsung Wearable App integrations. Discuss real-time translation, voice detect, and new health monitoring (heart rate, temperature) functions.

Photo by Ketut Subiyanto

AirPods 4 highlights:
Apple has built the AirPods 4 to work hand-in-glove with iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watch. Precision Find My integration, using both Bluetooth and ultra-wideband, helps you track down lost AirPods or their case with the Find My app. You can see their precise location, play a tone, or even get visual cues on your phone to help pinpoint where they are—ideal for those “where did I drop them?” moments. The case even emits a unique sound when tracked, making it tough to lose for long. More information about these tools can be found on Apple’s official AirPods 4 page.

Firmware updates roll out automatically, improving performance or adding new features without effort. Compatibility is best with Apple gear: auto switching between iPhone, MacBook, or iPad feels instant. Siri integration lets you control playback, get messages, and launch shortcuts hands-free.

Galaxy Buds3 series highlights:
Samsung’s Buds3 and Buds3 Pro integrate through the Galaxy Wearable app, opening up a suite of customization and firmware options. On Samsung phones, pairing is as quick as a tap. The Wearable app lets you upgrade firmware, adjust the sound profile, and manage notification settings. You can even find lost Buds through SmartThings Find, Samsung’s own tracking service. For more details on software and integration, see the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 features page.

The Buds3 Pro take integration further. Real-time translation lets you hear spoken language in your ear as a translation—a big help when traveling. Voice detect pauses your music when you start talking, then resumes once you’ve finished. New health monitoring features unlock heart rate and temperature tracking through the earbuds, bringing more health data straight to your Samsung Health app. These functions work best in the Samsung ecosystem, just as AirPods work best with Apple devices.

Platform extras at a glance:

AirPods 4: Find My, instant device switching, Siri voice, automatic updates.
Galaxy Buds3/Pro: Galaxy Wearable deep controls, SmartThings Find, live translation, voice detect, heart rate and temperature sensors.

Controls and Customization: Describe physical/pinch and touch controls, EQ settings, and user-friendly adjustment options.

When it comes to managing your music, calls, or sound, flexible controls make a difference. Here’s how each brand delivers.

AirPods 4 controls:
Apple uses a pinch-sensitive stem—just squeeze to play, pause, skip tracks, switch audio modes, or activate Siri. The squeezes are easy to feel and rarely cause accidental inputs. Through the iPhone’s Bluetooth settings, you can assign actions, but the options are straightforward and not overly customizable. Basic EQ adjustment is available, but Apple sticks to its “it just works” motto, so in-depth tuning is limited.

Galaxy Buds3 and Buds3 Pro controls:
Samsung offers tap and swipe controls on the touch surface. You can customize these commands within the Galaxy Wearable app, letting you control everything from track changes to voice assistants or even ambient sound levels. The Pro version adds “pinch grip” sensors, giving users the choice of tactile or touch control.

In the Wearable app, Samsung provides a full equalizer with several presets and a custom mode. You can tweak bass, treble, and mids to match your taste, or set different profiles for various activities. This level of personal control is ideal for users who want to make their sound and controls truly their own.

User-centric features breakdown:

AirPods 4: Pinch stem, simple assignments, basic EQ, seamless Siri access.
Galaxy Buds3/Pro: Tap/swipe or pinch controls, deep customization, full EQ, assignable functions for Google Assistant, Bixby, or volume.

For those who love to adjust their listening experience or command playback without reaching for their phone, both options promise easy, intuitive control—but Samsung pulls ahead for audiophiles and tinkerers who want more say in how things sound and feel.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is a deciding factor, especially if you’re always on the go with your earbuds. No one wants to recharge in the middle of a workout or commute. Let’s break down what you can expect in real, tested numbers from the AirPods 4 and the latest Galaxy Buds series.

Playback Hours with and without ANC: Break down tested battery benchmarks for AirPods 4 and all Galaxy Buds variants.

When comparing earbuds, playback time is high on the list of priorities. Both Apple and Samsung have tried to squeeze as much life as possible from their latest models, but the details matter once you factor in active noise cancellation (ANC) and how often you recharge in the case.

AirPods 4 give you up to 6 hours per charge with ANC off and roughly 4.5-5 hours with ANC on. Paired with the case, you reach a total of about 25-30 hours before needing to charge everything.
Galaxy Buds3 Pro offer a similar 6 hours on a single charge without ANC, but dip slightly to about 5 hours with ANC enabled. The case gives you another 20-25 hours of use.
Galaxy Buds3 Core stretch a bit further without ANC features, offering up to 7-8 hours per charge depending on volume and usage style, and up to 30 hours with the case.

Real-world usage may trim these numbers slightly, especially if you switch modes often or take frequent calls. The differences are subtle, but if you want a model that pushes toward all-day playback, the Core version takes a slim lead. Want deeper details? Explore this side-by-side AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation vs. Galaxy Buds3 review for hands-on battery results.

Battery benchmarks at a glance:

Model	ANC Off	ANC On	With Case
AirPods 4	6 hrs	4.5-5 hrs	25-30 hrs
Galaxy Buds3 Pro	6 hrs	5 hrs	20-25 hrs
Galaxy Buds3 Core	7-8 hrs	N/A	30 hrs

The numbers show close competition, though the Buds3 Core wins on raw stamina while both Pro models trade blows depending on your ANC needs. Some user experiences, like this Galaxy Buds3 real-use report, highlight how volume and call time impact longevity.

Photo by Dario Fernandez Ruz

Charging Methods and Convenience: Itemize case charging methods (USB-C, wireless), fast charging, and ease of use.

It’s not just about how long earbuds last, but also how quickly and easily you can top them off. Both AirPods 4 and Galaxy Buds3 play to modern convenience standards.

Here’s what you get for charging flexibility:

USB-C charging: Both AirPods 4 and all current Galaxy Buds3 models charge via USB-C, making it simple—most people already have a compatible cable at hand. This is also a plus if you’re invested in newer devices with universal USB-C support.
Wireless charging: AirPods 4 support Qi wireless charging, so you can drop the case on any wireless pad. Both Galaxy Buds3 variants also support wireless charging, staying on par with Apple for ease of use.
Fast charging: Out of juice? With AirPods 4, a 5-minute charge in the case gives you about an hour of playback—perfect if you’re in a rush. Samsung matches this pace, with the Buds3 Pro and Core each supporting fast charging, allowing for approximately an hour of playback after only 5-10 minutes in the case.
Reverse wireless charging: On Samsung’s side, you can use select Galaxy phones to “PowerShare” and charge the Buds3 case directly from your phone’s battery—a unique feature for Samsung device owners.

Charging case convenience highlights:

AirPods 4: USB-C, Qi wireless, fast charge (5 minutes = 1 hour), LED status display.
Galaxy Buds3 Pro/Core: USB-C, Qi wireless, fast charge, Samsung PowerShare, LED indicators.

Everyday, this translates to very little downtime. You can quickly top up before leaving the house, or even while using your phone as a charger in a pinch—a big advantage for those always at low battery. Each approach is straightforward, with well-marked LED indicators showing battery status on all models.

For a direct checklist comparison, look up how these features stack in the Apple AirPods 4 vs Samsung Galaxy Buds3 chart.

Both brands deliver easy, flexible charging that keeps your music, calls, and podcasts going with minimum interruption. Whether you prefer plugging in or using a mat, or value using your phone to charge your case, both AirPods 4 and Galaxy Buds3 have you covered.

Price, Value, and Final Considerations

Choosing between AirPods 4 and the Galaxy Buds3 series usually comes down to price, support, and what you get in the box. These earbuds are built for slightly different audiences, but both offer strong value for what you pay, especially if you stick to the same brand as your phone.

Photo by Soulful Pizza

Price Comparison and What’s Included

Both Apple and Samsung aim for the mid-to-premium segment with their flagship earbuds, but there are key differences in what you pay and what you get:

AirPods 4: Launch price of $179 with ANC, charging case, USB-C cable, and basic paperwork.
Galaxy Buds3 Pro: Priced at $179 at launch, matching AirPods 4, comes with three sizes of silicone ear tips (for Pro), charging case, USB-C cable, and manuals.
Galaxy Buds3 Core: Retail slightly lower, around $139 (varies by region), includes earbuds, charging case, cable, and manuals; skips extra ear tip sizes due to its semi-open design.

Side-by-side, the entry price is almost identical for AirPods 4 and Buds3 Pro. The Buds3 Core is better for budget-minded buyers, especially if you don’t need advanced ANC or a deep in-ear seal. For a helpful, direct chart of price and feature breakdowns, view this AirPods 4 with ANC vs Galaxy Buds3 price overview.

In-box highlights:

Apple leans towards simplicity, offering fewer swappable accessories but a reliably premium unboxing experience.
Samsung includes more accessories with their Pro model, which might save you shopping for extra ear tips or cases.

Warranty, Support, and Software Longevity

Warranty and ongoing support can shape the total value you get over time. Here’s how the companies stack up:

Apple: Offers a one-year limited warranty covering hardware defects, with the option of AppleCare+ for extra coverage. Their support is known for easy in-store or mail-in service, though not all accidental damage is covered.
Samsung: Also covers Galaxy Buds with a standard one-year warranty (Samsung warranty details). Galaxy Buds warranty includes defects and malfunctions under typical use. Some reports online do suggest scrutiny for accidental or cosmetic damage, so reading the fine print pays off (user warranty experience).

Both brands supply regular firmware updates, usually for at least two years on major models. This keeps features fresh and bugs at bay, especially if you stay tied to their apps and services.

Strengths and Which Users Each Fits Best

Each earbud family nails a specific user type thanks to the way they balance features, comfort, and connectivity.

AirPods 4
- Best for users in the Apple ecosystem who value plug-and-play simplicity, smooth device switching, and strong call quality.
- Excellent for students, commuters, or anyone who spends hours on the phone and wants comfort first.
Galaxy Buds3 Pro
- Perfect for Android users who want a customizable fit, deep noise cancellation, and the best compatibility with Samsung phones.
- Great for travelers, active users, and those who want more control over sound and features.
Galaxy Buds3 Core
- Ideal for value-seekers who want good battery life, a lighter fit, and don’t need top-level ANC.
- Suits everyday listeners and teens needing a basic yet stylish upgrade from wired earbuds.

Summary Table: Price, Accessories, and Support

Model	Price (USD)	ANC	Accessories	Warranty
AirPods 4	$179	Yes	Case, cable	1 yr, AppleCare+ opt
Buds3 Pro	$179	Yes	Case, ear tips, cable	1 yr
Buds3 Core	$139	No	Case, cable	1 yr

To round it out, both product lines give you years of use, steady updates, and simple warranty protections. Your best choice? Stick to earbuds that fit your devices and style, but don’t overlook the extras each brand includes to keep you happy long after checkout. For more head-to-head pricing and value points, explore this direct AirPods 4 vs Galaxy Buds3 Pro breakdown.

Conclusion

AirPods 4 and Galaxy Buds3 Pro/Core each shine for distinct types of users. Apple brings standout call quality, a light and comfortable fit, and the easiest experience if you use iPhone, Mac, or iPad. Samsung, on the other hand, gives Galaxy Buds3 Pro the edge for ruggedness, a tighter in-ear fit, and more custom sound and features—especially when paired with a Samsung phone.

If you prefer open-fit, long-term comfort and live in the Apple world, AirPods 4 are the smart buy. Those who need stronger water resistance, richer customization, or travel features will find Galaxy Buds3 Pro a better match, while Galaxy Buds3 Core delivers everyday value at a lower cost.

Consider your phone, your routine, and which extras matter most. The best wireless earbuds are the ones that fit your daily life, not just the spec sheet. Thank you for reading—share your own experience or questions below and help others make the right choice. New models and updates come fast, so check back for more insights as these earbuds evolve.