Samsung recently unveiledtwo new Galaxy Budsat its pretty packed Samsung Unpacked event in July.
Unfortunately, at just $70 cheaper, the open-ear Galaxy Buds 3 base model is disappointing.
The Samsung Buds feature active noise canceling, while the AirPods dont.
Photo:Dua Rashid
Visually, they do look quite similar but we can get over that.
Samsung Galaxy Buds 3
If the ANC was better, these could have stood a chance.
Samsung opted to give the stems sharp cornered edges and decided to call them blades.
Photo: Dua Rashid
It takes time to grow on you.
Thankfully, the odd design doesnt get in the way of navigation.
While reviewing, I also dig the edged design because of the sleek look it gives the buds.
Photo: Dua Rashid
The subtle black accents on the body help amp up its overall aesthetic.
I did feel that difference switching to the on-ear Galaxy Buds 3 from the in-ear Galaxy Buds 3 Pros.
I believe Samsung could have made the difference a bit less glaring.
Photo: Dua Rashid
for play/pause music or accept/decline calls, youre required to pinch one of the blades.
But on these earbudswhich I found myself fixing more than usualI was especially pleased with the pinch control.
The pinch gesture was responsive, required an appropriate level of pressure, and responded with a reassuring click.
Photo: Dua Rashid
A long pinch cycled between ANC on and off which was as smooth as a regular pinch.
These figures are generally for music playback, and phone calls tend to drain the batteries faster.
I cycled between ANC on and off during my testing period.
Photo: Dua Rashid
Just like the Pro model, the Galaxy Buds 3 are also rated IP57 for water resistance.
I wore them in the kitchen a lot and was constantly adjusting them with wet hands.
I havent encountered any issues.
The treble is less distinct, but the bass is surprisingly strong.
But anyone looking for an entry-level pair of buds should be more than okay with these.
The inclusion of ANC on these buds is welcome, but it isnt very good.
In fact, cycling between the modes, I sometimes couldnt even tell when ANC was on or off.
And its not just bells and whistles like a fancier body or blade lights.
The downgrade in sound would be pretty noticeable to even non-audiophiles.
The two-way speakers with a planar tweeter on the more expensive model produce much better sound quality.
And the ANC is not nearly as efficient as one would hope.
Specs like water resistance and battery life are shared across the series, so that should be okay.
The fit is another major difference between the two buds.
I would be the first to suggest you preserve your dollars and spend smartly.
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