When Samsung launched the Galaxy Buds FE (Fan Edition), it entered a competitive space already occupied by its predecessor, the Galaxy Buds 2. Priced lower than most flagship earbuds, the FE model promised premium audio at a budget-friendly cost. But how does it truly stack up against the more refined Buds 2? For users considering an upgrade—or choosing between the two—the decision hinges on more than just price. Sound quality, comfort, active noise cancellation, battery life, and ecosystem integration all play crucial roles.
This in-depth analysis breaks down every key aspect of both models, offering real-world insights to help you determine whether the Galaxy Buds FE delivers enough value to justify skipping or replacing the Buds 2.
Design and Comfort: Subtle Differences, Big Impact
The physical design of both earbuds follows Samsung’s minimalist aesthetic—compact, oval-shaped housings that sit flush in the ear. However, subtle differences affect long-term comfort and stability.
The Galaxy Buds 2 are slightly lighter at 5.0 grams per bud compared to the FE’s 5.6 grams. While this difference seems negligible, during extended listening sessions, users often report the Buds 2 feeling less intrusive. The FE model uses a similar ergonomic shape but with marginally thicker stems, which some find protrude more when wearing glasses or helmets.
Both models come with multiple ear tip sizes (S/M/L), allowing for a customizable fit. However, the Buds 2 include wingtips for added grip, enhancing stability during workouts—a feature absent in the FE.
Sound Quality: Where the FE Shines
One of the most surprising aspects of the Galaxy Buds FE is its audio performance. Despite being a \"value\" model, it leverages the same 12mm dynamic drivers found in the original Galaxy Buds Pro. This gives it a sonic edge over the Buds 2, which use smaller 6.5mm dual drivers.
In practical terms, the FE delivers deeper bass, richer mids, and a wider soundstage. Music genres like hip-hop, EDM, and rock benefit significantly from the fuller low-end response. In contrast, the Buds 2 prioritize clarity and balance, making vocals and acoustic tracks sound crisp but sometimes lean.
That said, the Buds 2 offer superior tuning flexibility via the Galaxy Wearable app. Users can adjust EQ settings, enable surround sound, or activate voice focus. The FE, while supporting basic EQ adjustments, lacks advanced audio customization and 360 Audio support.
“Sound quality isn’t just about hardware—software tuning makes a huge difference. The Buds FE punch above their weight acoustically, but the Buds 2 give users more control.” — David Lin, Audio Engineer & Tech Reviewer
Noise Cancellation and Call Performance
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is where the Galaxy Buds 2 pull ahead. Their hybrid ANC system combines feedforward and feedback microphones to cancel ambient noise more effectively—especially in mid-to-high frequencies like office chatter or airplane cabin hum.
The Buds FE use a simpler ANC solution with only feedback mics. While functional, it struggles with higher-pitched sounds and doesn’t adapt as quickly to changing environments. In real-world testing, commuters reported needing to increase volume on trains when using the FE, whereas the Buds 2 maintained consistent immersion.
For calls, both models feature three-mic systems and AI-based voice enhancement. Wind noise suppression is noticeably better on the Buds 2 thanks to optimized mic placement and beamforming technology. In outdoor tests, callers on the other end consistently rated voice clarity higher with the Buds 2, especially in breezy conditions.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery performance favors the Galaxy Buds FE. With ANC off, they deliver up to 9 hours of playback, compared to the Buds 2’s 7.5 hours. With ANC enabled, the FE still lasts around 7 hours, edging out the Buds 2’s 6.5-hour claim.
The charging case also holds more power—the FE case provides 24 total hours versus 20.5 for the Buds 2. Both support wireless charging and Fast Pair with Android devices, but only the Buds 2 support IPX2 water resistance (vs IPX7 on the FE).
| Feature | Galaxy Buds FE | Galaxy Buds 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight per Bud | 5.6g | 5.0g |
| Driver Size | 12mm Dynamic | 6.5mm Dual Driver |
| ANC Type | Feedback-only | Hybrid (Feedforward + Feedback) |
| Battery (ANC Off) | 9 hours | 7.5 hours |
| Case Total | 24 hours | 20.5 hours |
| Water Resistance | IPX7 | IPX2 |
| Wingtips Included | No | Yes |
| Advanced Audio Features | Limited EQ | 360 Audio, Voice Focus, Full EQ |
Real-World Example: Commuter’s Dilemma
Jessica, a daily subway commuter in Chicago, owned Galaxy Buds 2 for over a year. After seeing a discount on the Buds FE, she upgraded expecting better battery life and sound. She loved the richer bass and longer playback—but quickly noticed her morning train rides were noisier. “I could hear the screech of the rails more than before,” she said. “I ended up turning ANC off and using ambient sound mode instead.”
She also missed the snug fit during her lunchtime walks. Without wingtips, the FE buds occasionally shifted. Ultimately, she switched back to her old Buds 2 for workdays and kept the FE for home use. Her experience highlights a key insight: context matters. If your environment is loud or active, the Buds 2’s ANC and fit may outweigh the FE’s audio richness.
Step-by-Step: Choosing the Right Model for You
Follow this decision-making process to pick the best earbuds for your lifestyle:
- Assess your primary use: Are you mostly at home, commuting, working out, or taking calls?
- Prioritize sound profile: Do you prefer deep bass (FE) or balanced clarity (Buds 2)?
- Evaluate noise levels: If you’re often in loud environments, Buds 2’s superior ANC is a major advantage.
- Check device compatibility: Both work best with Samsung phones, but Buds 2 offer tighter integration (e.g., Seamless Codec switching).
- Compare prices: If the FE is $30+ cheaper and you don’t need advanced features, it offers excellent value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Galaxy Buds FE with non-Samsung phones?
Yes. Both the Buds FE and Buds 2 work with any Bluetooth-enabled smartphone. However, full features like firmware updates, EQ customization, and SmartThings Find require a Samsung account.
Do the Buds FE have spatial audio?
No. The Buds FE lack head-tracking and 360 Audio support, which are available on the Buds 2 through the Galaxy Wearable app. This limits immersive experiences with movies and select music.
Which has better water resistance?
The Buds FE win here with IPX7 rating (submersible in 1m water for 30 minutes). The Buds 2 are only IPX2-rated (splash-resistant). For workouts or rainy climates, the FE offers greater peace of mind.
Final Verdict: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
The Galaxy Buds FE are not a direct successor to the Buds 2—they’re a different kind of product altogether. Positioned as a budget-friendly option with high-fidelity sound, they succeed in delivering rich audio and solid battery life at a lower price point. But they compromise on noise cancellation, call quality, and advanced software features.
If you're a casual listener who values deep, punchy sound and long battery life, and you’re on a tight budget, the Buds FE are absolutely worth considering. They’re especially appealing if you already own a pair of older Galaxy Buds and want a modern refresh without spending top dollar.
However, if you commute frequently, take lots of calls, or want the most out of Samsung’s ecosystem, the Galaxy Buds 2 remain the smarter long-term investment—even at a slightly higher cost. Their superior ANC, better call performance, and enhanced customization make them more versatile across daily scenarios.
In short: The Fan Edition isn’t necessarily “better”—but for the right user, it’s certainly worthwhile.
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