Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Noise-Canceling Wireless In-Ear Review

Great Samsung earbuds held back by mediocre battery. Build quality and comfort scores are top-tier (98th and 86th percentile). Worth it for Galaxy users, but others can find better all-rounders.

The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 are the latest in Samsung's wireless earbud lineup, packing 11mm drivers, active noise cancellation, and a solid IP57 rating for dust and water. They're built to integrate seamlessly with the Samsung ecosystem, thanks to features like Adaptive EQ with Galaxy AI and Samsung Seamless codec support.

Our data shows these buds are built like tanks, scoring in the 98th percentile for durability. They're also strong on connectivity and comfort. But the battery life is a clear weak spot, landing in a much lower percentile and putting a cap on their all-day potential.

Sound quality is solid, landing in the 85th percentile, and the ANC is effective at blocking out a good chunk of background noise. The six microphones per earbud do a decent job for calls, though the mic score is a bit behind the pack. The real letdown is battery life. Five hours with ANC on is just okay in 2024, and it's the main reason the overall 'music' score drags behind other categories. For short commutes or workouts, it's fine. For a long flight? You'll be reaching for the case.

At $178, the Buds3 sit in a crowded mid-tier. You're paying for that Samsung integration and robust build. If you're deep in the Samsung world with a Galaxy phone or tablet, that value goes up. If you're not, you're missing out on key features like the seamless codec, and you might find better pure audio or battery performance elsewhere for similar money.

Stacked up, the Sony WF-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Ultras have better ANC and sound, but they cost more. The Apple AirPods Pro are the obvious pick for iPhone users. The real question is for Android users: do you want the tight Samsung integration, or are you willing to sacrifice that for the Technics EAH-AZ80's stellar sound or the Jabra Evolve2 Buds' superior mic for calls? The Buds3 are a great 'team player' for Samsung devices, but they're not the standalone champions in any one area.

Skip the Buds3 if you need all-day battery life without a case recharge. Also, if you're an audiophile seeking neutral, detailed sound, the bass-heavy tuning here might disappoint. And if you don't own a Samsung phone, you're paying for features you can't fully use.

Buy the Galaxy Buds3 if you're a Samsung phone user who prioritizes ecosystem synergy, build quality, and comfort above all-day battery life. They fit great, block noise well, and will feel like a natural extension of your Galaxy device. Just keep a charger handy.