The Galaxy Buds4 Pro is the clear winner for those wanting the best noise cancellation and audio fidelity in the Samsung ecosystem. If you prefer a loose fit, go for the Buds4, while the older Buds 2 Pro or Buds3 Pro are solid picks only if you find them on a deep discount.
For those who hate the 'plugged' feeling of intra-auricular earbuds. It sacrifices some seal for pure comfort.
What We Liked 👍
Comfortable open-type fit
Clear call quality
What Could Be Better 👎
Poor isolation from environment
Unstable in large ears
The never-ending cycle of tech updates
Samsung has turned earbud releases into a yearly ritual that feels like a treadmill. The Galaxy Buds4 Pro and Buds4 are the latest to hit the shelves, promising studio sound and clearer calls. Spec sheet says one thing, reality says another; while the improvements are real, you have to wonder if your ears can actually distinguish between the 96kHz codec and a decent pair from two years ago.
The shift to the stem design across the board is a stylistic choice that some will love and others will lament. The Buds4 Pro and Buds4 lean into this, leaving the older, pebble-shaped Buds 2 Pro as a relic for those who prefer a lower profile. Choose wisely based on whether you want the best noise-blocking seal or the freedom of an open-ear design.
Do you really need the Pro?
The biggest differentiator here is the seal. If you want to shut out the world, the Buds4 Pro is the only serious choice. The standard Buds4 lacks the necessary physical seal to compete with the Pro's noise cancellation, no matter how much AI Samsung throws at it. If you are stuck in a loud office or frequently travel, stop trying to save money and just get the Pro.
Conversely, if your primary usage is casual listening at home where you want to hear the doorbell, the Buds4 is a charming, lightweight option. Just don't go jogging with them, unless you enjoy picking them up off the pavement.
Pick your poison
If you own a Samsung phone and want the best experience, the Galaxy Buds4 Pro is the winner. It integrates deeply with your device and provides the best technical performance of the bunch. For those who can't stand the feeling of earplugs, the Galaxy Buds4 is a fantastic secondary option.
Stick to the Buds3 Pro or Buds 2 Pro only if you find them at a massive discount, as their ecosystem support will eventually fade as Samsung moves its AI focus to the newest models.