AirPods vs. Galaxy Buds: Which earbuds are better?

You're ready to buy a new set of earbuds. You know you want a quality brand, and you're willing to pay more than $50 for them. So, which one is it going to be: AirPods or Buds? All you know is that one is Apple, and one is Samsung. Does it make a difference? Do you have to go with Apple or Android if you have a Galaxy S20 or an iPhone? We have the tea.

If you’re staunchly in the Apple or Android camp, you’ve probably already made your decision about which set of earbuds you’re getting. Because there’s no way you’d be caught wearing those other ones. No sirree. But if you’re one of those people who are down the middle, it can be tough to decide which side you’re going talk land on in the AirPods vs. Galaxy Buds debate. And that’s okay. We’re here to break down the basics of each one for you.

We’ll stick to talking mostly about Apple AirPods Pro and Samsung Galaxy Buds+ because those are the most recent versions. However, the older models are still available, which is why we include them below.

The basic information about AirPods vs. Galaxy Buds

One of the most obvious differences between the AirPods Pro and the Galaxy Buds+ is the cost, and it’s a hefty $100 difference. A pair of Galaxy Buds+ will run you $149, while AirPods Pro will cost you $249. But what all do you get for $100 more? Turns out, not that much.

Galaxy Buds+ have some clear advantages

One of the biggest advantages that the Galaxy Buds+ have in the AirPods vs. Galaxy Buds battle is their battery life. Your Buds+ will last you 11 hours. Your AirPods? If you use all of their features, you’ll get only 4.5 hours. That’s a considerable difference.

If colors matter to you, you’ll have more color choices with the Buds+. They even have Thom Browne special edition versions, if that tickles your fancy. They are also a bit more comfortable to wear in comparison to AirPods Pro. (Though you can get some awesome ear tips for your AirPods Pro.)

Another cool Buds+ feature is that they give you access to Spotify right from the touch controls on your earbud. How’s that for convenient?

The Buds+ are also a little more cross-platform friendly, since they have an iOS app, if that’s something that might make or break your decision.

AirPods Pro have other advantages

One of the biggest differences between the two brands is that the AirPods Pro have active noise-canceling abilities. That’s a huge factor for many people, and, if that’s something you need, that’s going to be your deal-breaker.

AirPods Pro are also half a gram lighter than the Buds+. And another cool feature is that your AirPods can automatically pause your music when you pull one bud from your ear. Siri is another aspect you’ll have with your AirPods Pro, if you’re used to using it all the time.

The AirPods also have a higher IPX rating with and IPX4—versus an IPX2 rating on the Galaxy Buds+. So, if you’re always getting sweaty at the gym or getting caught in the rain, that’s something to consider.

So, what’s the verdict between AirPods vs. Galaxy Buds?

Honestly, we don’t have a clear winner. On all counts, they both have great audio, so you’re not going to go wrong with either one. It’s going to come down to features and prices. Do you want ANC enough that you’ll pay an extra $100 for it? That’s up to you. But, if you’re in the market, we have all four versions right here for you.

Apple AirPods Pro Immersive Earbuds let you hear your surroundings in Transparency Mode

Though they’re active noise-canceling headphones, the Apple AirPods Pro Immersive Earbuds also offer Transparency Mode. In this setting, you’ll be able to hear your surroundings. So, when you’re on a morning jog and want to know who and what is around you, simply turn on this mode. However, if you’re in the gym and don’t want to hear anyone’s grunting or groaning, use the ANC setting. Active noise cancelation continuously responds to your environment so you always have an optimal listening experience. Furthermore, these redesigned Apple earbuds are lightweight and comfortable, so you’ll want to wear them all the time. And because you can talk to Siri and make phone calls, you’ll probably rarely have to remove them. They come with three different sizes of ear tips so you can choose one that’s comfortable in your ears.

Apple AirPods have a simple one-tap setup

Welcome to the wireless experience of listening to music with the Apple AirPods. After a simple one-tap setup, AirPods are automatically on and always connected. Using them is just as easy. They can sense when they’re in your ears and pause when you take them out. And the AirPods experience is just as amazing whether you’re listening to your iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, or Mac. Talking to your favorite personal assistant is a cinch. Just double-tap either AirPod to activate Siri, without taking your iPhone out of your pocket. All the groundbreaking things AirPods can do are driven by the custom-designed Apple W1 chip. It produces extremely efficient wireless for a better connection and improved sound. And the W1 chip manages battery life so well that you can listen for five hours on a single charge. It’s performance that’s unheard of in a device this small.

Samsung Galaxy Buds+ 2-Speaker Earbuds have three microphones

Built to enhance music and calls, the Samsung Galaxy Buds+ 2-Speaker Earbuds have three microphones. Because of this design, they make sure you have the clearest calls whenever you need them. Delivering impressive sound quality, these two-speaker headphones totally immerse you in whatever you’re listening to. Turn on a podcast and tune out the world with the Buds+, which use two-way dynamic speakers to optimize both treble and bass notes. Additionally, the new Galaxy Buds offer up to 22 hours of battery life. That’s 11 hours from the earbuds themselves and another 11 hours from their case. You can wirelessly charge the Samsung Buds Plus, and you can even wirelessly share power. Now compatible with iOS, these earbuds are for everybody.

Samsung Galaxy Buds are completely wireless

Enjoy listening and speaking with the Samsung Galaxy Buds. Featuring a completely wireless design, these in-ear headphones pair to your device right out of the box. Likewise, the Galaxy Buds connect with your Galaxy devices instantly via Bluetooth. Tuned by AKG, the Buds produce hi-res, rich, live sound for an immersive listening experience. Utilizing adaptive dual-microphone technology, they eliminate any background noise so others can always hear you clearly. With their slim design, they easily slip right into your pocket for convenient carrying throughout your day. Made from lightweight materials, the Buds are comfortable to wear during any activity. Available in standard color options including Black, White, and Neon Yellow, these wireless earbuds seamlessly blend into your day-to-day routine.

So, now that you’ve seen some of the main differences and looked at your options for AirPods vs. Galaxy Buds, do you have your choice narrowed down? Or do you already have a pair of one of these and have opinions? Let us know in the comments!