For years, Apple’s AirPods Pro have dominated the premium wireless earbud market for iPhone users. Their seamless integration, intuitive controls, and reliable performance make them a natural choice. But as Samsung’s Galaxy Buds lineup—particularly the Galaxy Buds2 Pro—has matured, a growing number of audiophiles and tech-savvy consumers are asking: Are iPhone users missing out by staying loyal to AirPods Pro?
The answer isn’t straightforward. It depends on priorities: Is it sound quality over ecosystem convenience? Battery life versus spatial audio? Fit comfort against touch controls? This article dives into the real differences between these two leading models, evaluates where each excels, and helps iPhone users decide whether switching—or at least considering Galaxy Buds—is worth the leap.
Sound Quality: Where Galaxy Buds Pull Ahead
When it comes to pure audio performance, the Galaxy Buds2 Pro consistently outperform the AirPods Pro in independent listening tests. Equipped with 5.3mm two-way dynamic drivers and support for 24-bit Hi-Fi audio (when paired with compatible Android devices), they deliver richer bass, more detailed mids, and crisper highs. Samsung’s 360 Audio and head-tracking spatial sound add an immersive layer that rivals Apple’s implementation—but with greater customization.
On the other hand, AirPods Pro rely on Apple’s H1 chip and AAC codec, which prioritize efficiency and seamless device switching over high-resolution audio. While their sound profile is balanced and well-tuned for general use, audiophiles often describe it as “safe” or “neutral”—designed not to offend, rather than impress.
Ecosystem Integration: Apple Still Holds the Edge
No matter how good third-party earbuds become, nothing matches the plug-and-play simplicity of AirPods Pro with an iPhone. Open the case near your device, and within seconds, a prompt appears showing battery levels and connection status. Switching between iPhone, iPad, and Mac happens automatically. Siri activation is instant. Find My integration helps locate lost earbuds with precision.
Galaxy Buds, while compatible with iOS, operate in a reduced feature set. You lose access to firmware updates, 360 Audio, voice detection, and advanced EQ settings. The Samsung Galaxy Wearable app is available on the App Store, but it’s clunky compared to its Android counterpart and doesn’t run in the background reliably. Features like auto-switching between Samsung devices vanish when used with iPhones.
“Ecosystem lock-in is one of Apple’s strongest retention tools. Even if another product is technically better, the friction of leaving reduces adoption.” — David Liu, Tech Analyst at Consumer Insights Group
Comfort and Fit: Personal Preference Rules
Both earbuds offer excellent ergonomics, but they take different design approaches. AirPods Pro use a stem-down design with silicone tips that create a secure seal. Many users appreciate the lightweight feel and stability during workouts. However, those with smaller ear canals sometimes report discomfort after extended wear.
Galaxy Buds2 Pro adopt a more traditional in-ear shape with softer, flexible wingtips. They tend to sit deeper and stay put better during movement. In user surveys, Samsung’s earbuds scored higher for all-day comfort, especially among side sleepers and active users.
| Feature | AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) | Galaxy Buds2 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (per bud) | 5.3g | 5.8g |
| Ear Tip Options | 3 sizes (S/M/L) | 3 sizes + stabilizer wings |
| IP Rating | IPX4 (sweat/water resistant) | IPX7 (submersible up to 1m for 30 mins) |
| Battery Life (with ANC) | 6 hours | 5 hours |
| Charging Case Total | 30 hours | 18 hours (29 with wireless charging) |
Noise Cancellation and Transparency: A Close Race
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) has become a key battleground. Apple improved significantly with the second-gen AirPods Pro, offering adaptive ANC that adjusts based on environmental noise. The transparency mode remains best-in-class—so natural that many users leave it on permanently.
Samsung responded with intelligent ANC on the Buds2 Pro, which uses AI to filter ambient sound dynamically. In head-to-head tests, Galaxy Buds slightly outperform AirPods in blocking low-frequency noise like airplane engines or AC hum. However, AirPods maintain cleaner voice pickup during calls and less “pressure” sensation in the ears—a common complaint with aggressive ANC.
Transparency mode on Galaxy Buds is functional but less refined. Voices sound slightly hollow, and wind noise reduction lags behind Apple’s algorithmic approach.
Mini Case Study: The Hybrid Worker’s Dilemma
Consider Maya, a freelance designer who splits her time between co-working spaces, cafes, and home offices. She owns an iPhone 15 and recently borrowed a pair of Galaxy Buds2 Pro from a friend. In noisy environments, she noticed the Galaxy Buds blocked chatter more effectively. But during client Zoom calls, her voice sounded clearer through the AirPods. When commuting, she preferred the longer total battery life of the AirPods case. Ultimately, despite the better sound, she stuck with AirPods because switching back and forth disrupted her workflow.
Her experience reflects a broader trend: even when alternative hardware performs better in isolated categories, daily usability often wins.
Step-by-Step: How to Test Galaxy Buds on Your iPhone
If you’re curious whether Galaxy Buds could work for you, follow this practical guide:
- Download the Galaxy Wearable app from the App Store.
- Charge your Galaxy Buds2 Pro fully and place them in pairing mode (hold the case button).
- Open Bluetooth settings on your iPhone and tap the Buds when they appear.
- Launch the Galaxy Wearable app and complete setup (note: some features may be grayed out).
- Test core functions: Play music, activate ANC, make a call, check touch controls.
- Wear them for a full day to assess comfort and battery drain.
- Evaluate: Are the gains in sound or fit worth sacrificing ecosystem perks?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Galaxy Buds connect to an iPhone reliably?
Yes, they pair via standard Bluetooth and function as basic wireless earbuds. However, advanced features like 360 Audio, firmware updates, and auto-switching are unavailable or limited.
Do Galaxy Buds support Spatial Audio like AirPods?
No. While Galaxy Buds have head-tracking spatial sound, it only works with Android devices and specific Samsung apps. On iOS, spatial audio features are restricted to Apple’s ecosystem.
Which earbuds last longer on a single charge?
AirPods Pro offer 6 hours with ANC enabled, compared to 5 hours on Galaxy Buds2 Pro. With the charging case, AirPods provide up to 30 hours total, giving them a clear edge in longevity.
Checklist: Should You Switch from AirPods Pro to Galaxy Buds?
- ☐ Prioritize audiophile-grade sound over ecosystem convenience
- ☐ Frequently use Android devices alongside your iPhone
- ☐ Prefer a snug, in-ear fit with stabilizing wings
- ☐ Don’t rely heavily on Siri or Find My
- ☐ Willing to accept reduced app functionality on iOS
- ☐ Value IPX7 water resistance for swimming or intense workouts
Conclusion: Loyalty Has Trade-Offs—But So Does Switching
iPhone users aren’t necessarily “missing out” by using AirPods Pro. They’re making a conscious trade-off: sacrificing peak audio performance and minor feature upgrades for unmatched ecosystem cohesion. For most people, that balance makes sense. The convenience of instant pairing, seamless handoffs, and reliable Siri access outweighs incremental gains elsewhere.
However, dismissing Galaxy Buds entirely means overlooking genuine innovation. Samsung has pushed boundaries in sound engineering, fit design, and water resistance. For users who value audio fidelity, own multiple devices, or simply want to explore beyond Apple’s walled garden, trying Galaxy Buds—even temporarily—can be eye-opening.
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