Why should you consider the SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds Pro? A comprehensive review!

Description

Fit & Comfort

Using the Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro felt like a mixed bag when it came to fit and comfort. Initially, I was excited about their sleek, in-ear design. However, I quickly discovered that the fit was not entirely secure for my ears. They came with just one set of silicone eartips, which wasn’t ideal. I had to order memory foam tips separately, and this upgraded the experience significantly. The foam tips provided a snugger fit and ensured the earbuds stayed put, even during workouts. My coworker also tried them and had a similar problem with the default tips slipping out, so this experience might not be unique to me.

On the bright side, they felt lightweight, so wearing them for a couple of hours didn’t cause discomfort. However, for extended use, I noticed a slight ear fatigue creeping in, which might be worth considering if you plan to use them all day.

Battery Life & Charging

The battery life of these earbuds was a point of contention for me. On a single charge, I was able to get about five hours of playback, which is pretty average. However, the included carrying case provides an additional 18 hours of battery life, which came in handy during long workdays. I really appreciated the wireless charging feature of the case, and if you’re a Samsung Galaxy phone user like me, the ability to use the phone’s reverse wireless charging feature was a lifesaver on multiple occasions.

That said, for some users, five hours might feel limiting, especially compared to competitors that boast longer playback times. A quick 15-minute charge did provide enough juice to power through another couple of hours, which was convenient during busy days.

Sound Quality & Performance

The sound quality was where the Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro truly shined. These earbuds feature an 11-mm woofer and a 6.5-mm tweeter in each bud, and the result was impressive. The bass was punchy, the mids were clear, and the highs were crisp. Listening to my favorite playlists was a joy, and the 360 Audio feature added an extra layer of depth, making me feel like I was enveloped in sound. Watching movies with these earbuds was an immersive experience, especially with the spatial audio effect.

Podcasts and calls also sounded great. During virtual meetings, my colleagues noted that my voice was crystal clear, even when I was in noisy environments. This was likely due to the effective integration of multiple microphones that reduced background noise.

Design & Build Quality

The design of these earbuds is undeniably stylish. They come in a glossy Phantom Black finish that looks premium and feels sturdy. The charging case is compact, making it easy to slip into a pocket or bag. My pair, being a renewed product, arrived in excellent condition with minimal signs of wear—a pleasant surprise for a refurbished model.

However, the glossy finish on the case made it a magnet for fingerprints, and I found myself wiping it down frequently. The earbuds themselves felt durable, and their rounded shape fit comfortably in my ears after swapping the tips.

Noise Cancellation & Ambient Mode

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) was one of the standout features of these earbuds. On a crowded train, I could block out most of the background chatter and focus on my music. The four ambient sound levels allowed me to customize how much external noise I wanted to let in, which was a game-changer. I used the ambient mode while walking in the city to stay aware of my surroundings, and it worked seamlessly.

However, the ANC did have its quirks. Occasionally, I felt a slight pressure in my ears when using it for extended periods, which might bother some users. A friend who borrowed them for a day noted the same sensation, so it’s not just me.

Durability & Water Resistance

The IPX7 water resistance rating gave me peace of mind during workouts and outdoor runs in light rain. I didn’t have to worry about sweat or accidental splashes damaging them. A colleague even dropped them in a sink (oops!), and they survived without any issues, which speaks volumes about their durability.

That said, I wouldn’t recommend prolonged exposure to water, as they’re not designed for activities like swimming.

Warranty

As a renewed product, these earbuds didn’t come with the same warranty as a brand-new model. However, I opted to purchase an extended warranty for added protection. It’s a good idea to review the warranty options available when buying refurbished electronics, as it provides peace of mind in case of any issues.

Advantages

• Crystal-clear sound with deep bass and 360 Audio.
• Compact design with a premium look and feel.
• Effective Active Noise Cancellation and customizable ambient sound levels.
• Wireless charging and reverse charging compatibility.

Shortcomings

• Battery life could be longer, especially for heavy users.
• Default silicone tips lack a secure fit for some users.
• Occasional ear pressure when using ANC for extended periods.

Peer Products

Comparing these earbuds to other popular options like the Apple AirPods Pro and Sony WF-1000XM4, I noticed a few distinct differences. While the AirPods Pro excel in seamless integration with Apple devices and offer slightly better fit options, they fall short on battery life compared to the Sony WF-1000XM4. The Sony earbuds boast superior ANC and longer playback times but come at a higher price point.

The Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro stood out for their rich sound quality and compatibility with Android devices, particularly Samsung phones. They’re a solid middle ground between the Apple and Sony offerings, striking a balance between features and affordability without compromising too much.

Bang for the Buck

Considering the features packed into these earbuds, they offer excellent value for the price, especially as a renewed product. If you’re an Android user, these earbuds make even more sense, thanks to their seamless integration and unique features like reverse wireless charging. For the price, you’re getting sound quality, ANC, and a water-resistant design that rivals more expensive options. Still, investing in better-fitting eartips might be necessary for the best experience.

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