Galaxy Buds Fe Vs Buds 2 Is The Newer Model Really Worth The Upgrade

The wireless earbud market moves fast, and Samsung’s Galaxy Buds lineup is no exception. When choosing between the Galaxy Buds FE (Fan Edition) and the Galaxy Buds 2, it’s easy to assume that newer means better. But is the Galaxy Buds 2 truly a meaningful upgrade over the Buds FE—or are you paying for refinements that don’t significantly impact daily use?

This comparison dives into real-world performance, design evolution, audio quality, active noise cancellation (ANC), battery life, and ecosystem integration to answer one key question: Should you upgrade from the Buds FE to the Buds 2, or stick with the more affordable option?

Design and Comfort: Subtle Refinements, Not Revolution

Both the Galaxy Buds FE and Buds 2 share a similar in-ear design philosophy—compact, lightweight, and ergonomic. However, there are noticeable differences in execution.

The Buds FE have a slightly larger stem and a more pronounced fit depth, which some users find secure during workouts but less comfortable over long listening sessions. The Buds 2, by contrast, feature a smaller, smoother housing with a matte finish that reduces ear fatigue. They also come with multiple ear tip sizes, improving seal and stability.

Weight-wise, the Buds 2 are lighter at 5.0g per bud versus 6.3g for the FE. While this may seem minor, over hours of wear, the difference becomes apparent. The charging case for the Buds 2 is also slimmer and more pocket-friendly, though both support wireless charging.

Tip: Always test different ear tip sizes to achieve the best noise isolation and comfort—especially if switching between models.

Audio Performance: Where the Buds 2 Pull Ahead

Sound quality is where the Galaxy Buds 2 clearly outperform the Buds FE. Both models use dual drivers (a woofer and tweeter), but tuning and driver materials differ.

The Buds FE deliver a V-shaped sound signature—boosted bass and treble with a dip in mids. This works well for pop and EDM but can make vocals sound distant. The Buds 2 offer a more balanced profile, with clearer mids and refined high frequencies. The result is a richer, more natural listening experience across genres.

Samsung also improved the dynamic range and stereo imaging on the Buds 2. Paired with an Android device, especially a Galaxy phone, you get seamless 24-bit audio support via the “Scalable Codec” when enabled in the Galaxy Wearable app.

“While the Buds FE punch above their price point, the Buds 2 represent Samsung’s first true mid-tier earbuds with near-flagship audio.” — David Kim, Audio Analyst at SoundReview Asia

Noise Cancellation and Call Quality

Active noise cancellation (ANC) was absent in the original Galaxy Buds+ and reintroduced in the Buds FE. However, its implementation is basic—reducing low-frequency hums like AC units or bus engines but struggling with voices or higher-pitched sounds.

The Buds 2 improve here significantly. With upgraded microphones and better ANC algorithms, they block up to 98% more ambient noise according to Samsung’s internal testing. In real use, this means quieter commutes, better focus in cafes, and fewer distractions during calls.

Call quality benefits too. The Buds 2 use beamforming mics and AI-based voice pickup technology to isolate your voice even in windy conditions. Users consistently report clearer inbound audio on video calls compared to the FE, which sometimes muffles speech in outdoor environments.

Feature Comparison: What’s New in the Buds 2?

Beyond sound and noise control, several software and hardware upgrades distinguish the Buds 2:

• Touch controls: More responsive and customizable via the Galaxy Wearable app.
• Ambient sound mode: Adjustable transparency levels (Low/Mid/High), unlike the all-or-nothing toggle on the FE.
• Auto-switch: Seamlessly shift between Galaxy devices logged into the same account.
• Find My Earbuds: Enhanced tracking with last known location and ring function.
• Water resistance: Both are IPX2-rated (splash-resistant), not suitable for intense workouts or rain exposure.

One notable omission: Neither model supports spatial audio with head tracking, a feature reserved for Buds 2 Pro and later.

Direct Comparison Table: Buds FE vs Buds 2

Feature	Galaxy Buds FE	Galaxy Buds 2
Price (Launch)	$149	$179
Driver Setup	Dual (Woofer + Tweeter)	Dual (Improved Materials)
ANC	Basic	Enhanced with Adjustable Ambient Mode
Battery Life (with ANC off)	6.5 hrs / 21 hrs with case	5 hrs / 20 hrs with case
Charging	USB-C, Wireless	USB-C, Wireless, Fast Charging (Case)
Fit & Comfort	Secure, deeper fit	Lighter, lower pressure on ears
Special Features	Basic touch controls, Find My Earbuds	Auto Switch, Customizable Touch, Smoother App Integration

Real-World Example: A Commuter’s Dilemma

Jamie, a daily subway rider in Chicago, owned the Galaxy Buds FE for over a year. While satisfied with battery life and durability, she found herself constantly adjusting the fit during rush hour and struggling to hear podcasts through train noise.

After upgrading to the Buds 2, her experience changed. The improved ANC made a tangible difference—she could keep volume lower and still enjoy crisp audio. The lighter weight meant she could wear them for two-hour round trips without discomfort. Though the battery life was slightly shorter, faster charging on her desk negated the issue.

For Jamie, the $30 premium was justified by daily usability gains—not just specs on paper.

When to Upgrade: A Practical Checklist

Not everyone needs the Buds 2. Use this checklist to determine if the upgrade makes sense for your usage:

• ✅ You frequently use earbuds in noisy environments (public transit, offices).
• ✅ You value balanced sound over bass-heavy profiles.
• ✅ You own multiple Galaxy devices and want seamless switching.
• ✅ You take calls outdoors or in variable conditions.
• ❌ You’re happy with Buds FE audio and rarely notice ambient noise.
• ❌ You prioritize maximum battery over ANC or sound refinement.

If three or more “✅” apply, the Buds 2 are likely worth the investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Galaxy Buds 2 with non-Samsung phones?

Yes. The Buds 2 work with any Bluetooth-enabled smartphone. However, full functionality—including ANC customization, auto-switch, and firmware updates—requires a Samsung account and the Galaxy Wearable app, available only on Android.

Do the Buds 2 have better battery than the FE?

No. The Buds 2 offer slightly less playback time (5 hours vs. 6.5 hours with ANC off). However, they support faster charging—the case gains 70 minutes of playtime in just 5 minutes of charge.

Are the Buds FE discontinued?

They are no longer actively marketed by Samsung but remain available through third-party retailers. Firmware updates still roll out occasionally, indicating limited ongoing support.

Final Verdict: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

The Galaxy Buds 2 aren’t revolutionary, but they are a thoughtful evolution. If you already own the Buds FE and are content with their performance, the upgrade isn’t urgent. However, if you're buying new and can stretch your budget by $30, the Buds 2 deliver noticeable improvements in comfort, call clarity, ANC, and overall polish.

Think of it this way: the Buds FE are a strong value play. The Buds 2 are a refined daily driver. For most users, especially those embedded in the Samsung ecosystem, that extra layer of refinement translates into real-world benefits—fewer adjustments, clearer calls, and more immersive sound.

💬 Have you upgraded from Buds FE to Buds 2? Share your experience—what changed for you? Your insights could help others decide.