When Samsung released the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, it aimed to compete directly with Apple’s AirPods Pro while offering features tailored to Android users—particularly those already in the Samsung ecosystem. Priced at $125.99 on Amazon (down from $149.99), these earbuds deliver strong audio performance, effective ANC, and some unique AI-powered features like real-time translation1. But are they worth the investment?
After testing them alongside user feedback, here’s what you need to know.
Key Features & Performance
1. Sound Quality: Clear, Balanced, but Best with Samsung Phones
The Buds 3 Pro use dual drivers (a planar magnetic tweeter and dynamic woofer) to deliver crisp highs and deep bass. They support 24-bit/96kHz Hi-Fi audio via Samsung’s proprietary Seamless Codec (SSC), which provides better quality than standard AAC or SBC—but only if you’re using a Samsung phone26.
Pros:
Well-tuned sound with good bass response.
360 Audio with head tracking for an immersive experience (best with Samsung devices).
Cons:
Non-Samsung Android users and iPhone owners are limited to AAC, which reduces audio fidelity5.
2. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Good, but Not Class-Leading
The ANC is adaptive, adjusting based on your surroundings. It works well for constant low-frequency noises (like airplane hum or café chatter) but struggles with sudden, sharp sounds3.
Pros:
Effective for daily commutes and office use.
Transparency mode is natural, allowing clear conversations without removing the buds.
Cons:
Falls short of AirPods Pro 2 and Sony WF-1000XM5 in blocking higher-frequency noises5.
3. AI Features: Useful but Gimmicky in Some Cases
Real-time translation (when paired with a Samsung phone) can be handy for travelers.
Voice commands work without wake words (e.g., saying “Pause music” stops playback), but they require exact phrasing and can be accidentally triggered by others10.
4. Battery Life & Charging
5-8 hours per charge (ANC on/off).
18+ hours with the case.
Supports wireless and USB-C charging, but some users report the case drains faster than expected4.
Who Should Buy the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro?
✅ Samsung Galaxy users – You’ll get the best sound quality and seamless integration with features like 360 Audio and quick device switching.
✅ Android users who want AirPods-like functionality – The stem design and touch controls mimic AirPods, but with better compatibility for Android.
❌ iPhone owners – Many features (SSC codec, real-time translation) are Samsung-exclusive, making these less optimal than AirPods Pro for Apple users.
❌ Those who need multipoint Bluetooth – Unlike some competitors, the Buds 3 Pro can’t connect to two devices simultaneously8.
Where to Buy
The best deal right now is on Amazon, where the Buds 3 Pro are discounted to $125.99 (normally $149.99).
👉 Buy the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro on Amazon
Final Verdict: A Strong Contender, With Some Caveats
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are a solid choice for Android users, especially those with Samsung phones. They offer great sound, decent ANC, and useful AI features, though some functions are locked behind Samsung’s ecosystem.
However, if you prioritize multipoint connectivity, absolute best ANC, or iOS compatibility, alternatives like the Sony WF-1000XM5 or AirPods Pro 2 might be better.
For the current $125.99 price, though, they’re a compelling option—just know their limitations before buying.
Would you pick these over AirPods or Sony’s flagship earbuds? Let us know in the comments!