Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro – User Experience
- Jump to:
- Design and Build
- Usability & Compatibility
- Features & Technology
- Pros and Cons
- User Reviews
- Images and Videos
- Conclusion
Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 has entered the extremely competitive audio industry, showing the brand’s dedication to offering innovative and high-quality products. The attractive price of $229 / £219 / AU$349 for the earbuds and their aesthetically pleasing design in Bora Purple, Graphite, and White, are accompanied by advanced technology, placing the product on par with competitors like Apple’s AirPods Pro.
The Buds 2 Pro demonstrates a significant shift from earbud models previously released by Samsung, with this pair of earbuds introducing a better fit and improved user experience. With the entirely new design of the Buds 2 Pro, there is a snug, almost imperceptible fit, which is achieved by the 15% smaller and lighter earbuds look. Combining features like Adaptive Noise Canceling (ANC), voice detection, and IPX7 water resistance, the Buds 2 Pro offers an accessory, which ensures a remarkable audio performance. Users who are dedicated to the Samsung ecosystem will enjoy the motion-tracking 360 audio function, which takes full advantage of the brand’s 24-bit audio technology, enabling an immersive audio experience for listeners.
| Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: Key Features Overview | |
|---|---|
| Price | $229 / £219 / AU$349 |
| Color Options | Available in Bora Purple, Graphite, and White |
| Battery Performance | Up to 5 hours with ANC active, 8 hours without; 18 to 29 hours with charging case |
| Connectivity Tech | Bluetooth 5.3 with support for AAC, SBC, and Samsung’s Scalable Codec (SSC) |
| Water Resistance Level | Certified IPX7, offering robust protection against water immersion |
| Dimensions (Earbuds) | Each earbud measures 0.7 by 0.85 by 0.7 inches |
| Dimensions (Charging Case) | The case is 1.97 by 1.97 by 1.1 inches in size |
| Weight (Earbuds) | Each bud is a lightweight 0.19 ounces |
| Weight (Charging Case) | The case weighs in at 1.53 ounces |
| Audio Technology | Features 360 Audio with head-tracking, when used with a Samsung Galaxy device |
| Microphones | Equipped with multiple microphones for clear call quality and ANC functionality |
| Charging | USB-C charging for the case with wireless charging capabilities |
| Website | www.samsung.com |
Editor’s Rating
out of 5
As far as battery life goes, the Buds 2 Pro has not demonstrated any improvement compared to its predecessors. In addition, the noise cancelation lacks granular control. Despite these small inconveniences, these earbuds offer features and an overall listening experience that is on par with their competitors. The device’s connectivity has been updated to help users connect their Buds 2 Pro via Bluetooth 5.3, with the latest update of the product also enabling the LE Audio connection, further hinting at the brand’s evolution in the future.
1. Design and Build
Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 2 Pro are a testament to the brand’s intention to offer great comfort and durability while still putting effort in the design and build of its products. The Buds 2 Pro’s aesthetics reflect a dedication to an ergonomic fit that combines style with practicality, providing an effortless audio experience.
| Design Overview | |
|---|---|
| Ergonomics | Refined, 15% smaller than Galaxy Buds Pro, tailored for a secure fit without bulkiness. |
| Waterproofing | IPX7 rating for the earbuds ensures they are protected against immersion in water. |
| Charging Case | Compact, resistant to fingerprints, with a firm magnetic closure and solo LED indicator. |
| Touch Controls | Precise and responsive, with expanded touch area and tactile feedback. |
| Ear Tips | Comes with three sizes (S, M, L) to ensure a snug, customizable fit. |
The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro are not only small and comfortable, but they also boast a waterproof certification that is a notch above many competitors, ensuring durability during intense workouts or unexpected rain. The earphones deliver a commendable 5 hours of playtime with ANC enabled, extending up to 18 hours with the included charging case.
Practicality is the main element, which inspired the design of the earpieces as they stay put even during intense activities, thanks to their secure and ergonomic fit. This secure fit is maintained without the need to switch from the pre-installed medium ear tips, although additional sizes are provided.
Touch Controls and Build Quality
A notable feature is the touch control surface. At first, users were hesitant about the responsiveness of the earbuds due to their rounded surface. However, any doubts were quickly dismissed as tests revealed that the controls were very responsive and were showing consistency in their functionality. Thanks to being sensitive to touch, the device ensured a user-friendly experience, allowing users easy control without having to reach for their smartphones.
Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: Responsive and Rugged
The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro impress with their highly responsive touch controls and durable, user-friendly design, ideal for active lifestyles.
If we are discussing the build of the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, we can conclude that they are quite sturdy. Designed with active users in mind, the earbuds have an all-plastic exterior with a rubber finish that protects them from any damage even when they are dropped. Another thing that Samsung achieved is to offer durability that does not affect the discreet and light design of the earbuds.
Charging Case and Comfort
Even though the charging case is not waterproof, it still attracts with its sleek finish that protects the case’s surface from fingerprints. As portability is one of the most important features of wireless earbuds, the Buds 2 Pro’s charging case is extremely compact and easy to carry around.
The angled sound port and customizable tips ensure a secure and comfortable fit. Samsung demonstrated great attention to detail by introducing features like fit test and Neck Stretch. The former allows users to confirm the best fit for their ears, while the latter reminds listeners of the correct listening postures.
In summary, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro’s design and build combine elegance and functionality with durability. They have captured the essence of what modern users demand from their earbuds: an elegant exterior, reliable performance, and an immersive listening experience.
In summary, the Anker 313’s design and build show this is an entry-level product. Anker has compromised with certain design features for the sake of cost-effectiveness. However, the device still offers all the core functionalities one would expect from a wireless charger. Overall, the Anker 313 offers a decent albeit basic charging experience, although the quality of the materials and certain aspects of the design bear improvement.
2. Sound Quality
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro offers a truly immersive listening experience with advanced audio technologies and an impressive 2-way speaker system. Here’s an overview of their sound quality features and performance:
| Key Audio Features & Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Driver Design | 2-way speaker with a 10mm woofer and a 5.4mm tweeter in each earbud |
| 24-bit Audio | Offers detailed and expansive sound, enhancing the listening experience on compatible Samsung devices |
| ANC Performance | High-quality noise cancellation with 3 high SNR microphones, effectively eliminating a wide range of external noises |
| Samsung Scalable Codec | Dynamically adjusts bitrate from 88kbps to 512kbps, optimizing sound quality on Samsung devices |
| AKG Tuning | Custom coaxial 2-way speakers tuned for a rich and detailed sound signature |
| Bluetooth | Version 5.3, with LE Audio-Ready for future updates |
| Soundstage | Wide and energetic, providing an immersive and realistic audio experience |
| Compatibility Enhancement | Enhanced sound quality when paired with Samsung devices |
Sound Quality Analysis
- Richness & Detail: Offers the same high-quality listening experience no matter the genre, from Sheryl Crow’s “Soak Up the Sun” to DJ Snake’s “Taki Taki,” the earbuds deliver clean vocals and an extensive soundstage, allowing easy detection of each instrument.
- Bass Performance: Tracks like Daddy Yankee and Snow’s “Con Calma” are able to demonstrate the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro’s ability to grab the attention by offering dynamic bass lines, highlighting the rhythm and energy of the performance.
- Midrange & Treble: The earbuds provide a rock-solid midrange and expressive treble, highlighted in tracks like Mark Ronson’s “Valerie” and in the intricate jazz classics such as Dexter Gordon & Slide Hampton’s “The Shadow of Your Smile.”
- Active Noise Cancelation (ANC): The earbuds boast robust ANC functionality, allowing users to enjoy their music without background noise distractions, with the feature being capable of canceling out even the hum of an AC.
- 360 Audio & Head-Tracking: The motion-tracking feature offers an immersive listening experience. Whether you are listening to music or you are watching a movie, this feature allows listeners to feel as if they are a part of the performance or the movie action.
- Game Mode: Thanks to this option, users can experience less latency while mobile gaming, although there have not been any drastic changes in audio synchronization.
- Futureproofing: With Galaxy Buds 2 Pro recently updated to support Bluetooth LE Audio, Samsung demonstrates its dedication to keeping all of its products up to date with the latest tech innovations.
Listening Experience
- Equalizer Settings: The app, which accompanies the earbuds comes with six EQ presets that allow users to tailor the sound experience to their preferences. However, the app does not support customizations of the EQ band.
- ANC Impact on Sound: There is a slight shift in the frequency balance when the ANC is activated, boosting the lows and the volume, which may be great for some users but others may not appreciate the slight alterations.
- Live Audio & Movies: The 360 Audio feature gives an extra boost to the sound experience while listening to live recordings or watching movies, with the feature creating a more immersive sound effect.
Some of the features that have contributed to the outstanding performance of the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro include impeccable sound quality, an extensive range of audio features, and strong ANC functionality. The buds show a particularly excellent performance when they are paired with a Samsung device as they can fully utilize the brand’s Scalable Codec and AKG tuning. Even though the earbuds are accustomed to a wide range of frequencies, users who prefer to set up the EQ on their own might be disappointed that the earbuds app does not offer customization options. To conclude, we can say that the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro ranks as a strong participant in the wireless earbuds market, offering users a balanced but vibrant audio experience.
3. Features & Technology
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro offers a suite of features that enhance the device’s functionality, especially when it is paired with other devices in the Samsung ecosystem. Below is a summary of their key features.
| Key Features Overview: | |
|---|---|
| 360 Audio | Immersive surround sound with head-tracking for movies and live performances |
| Bixby Voice Wake-up | Access Samsung’s voice assistant with a voice command |
| Gaming Mode | Reduces audio latency for gaming on mobile devices |
| Find My Earbuds | Helps locate misplaced earbuds |
| Earbud Fit Test | Ensures the best fit for optimal sound and ANC performance |
| Noise Controls | Switch between ANC and Ambient sound modes |
| Voice Detect | Automatically switches to ambient sound when speaking |
| Wireless PowerShare | Charge earbuds with compatible Samsung smartphones |
| Samsung TV Connectivity | Seamless integration with 2022 Samsung TV models |
| Firmware Updates | Keeps the earbuds up-to-date with the latest features and improvements |
Feature Details:
- Galaxy Wearable App Integration: The central hub for customizing and controlling various aspects of the earbuds, including access to features such as an Equalizer, touch control customization, and Noise Controls.
- Extended Samsung Ecosystem Compatibility: The features are not only accessible through the Galaxy Wearable app but are also designed to work seamlessly with other Samsung devices and services.
- Advanced Noise Cancellation: Superior to the AirPods Pro, with the ability to filter out more external noise, including wind noise, by a significant margin.
- Ambient Listening Mode: A multi-purpose mode that allows users to stay aware of their surroundings without the need to remove the earbuds.
Additional Functionality:
- Battery Indicators & Homescreen Widget: Allow easy monitoring of earbuds’ battery and provide access to controls directly from the smartphone home screen.
- Read Notifications: Whenever the earbuds are connected to a device, users can be notified about any notifications that can be read out by the earbuds.
- Samsung Signature Features: Users can enhance their experience in the Samsung ecosystem by using the brand’s exclusive features like Samsung Scalable Codec (SCS) or Samsung Smart TV integration.
Comparative Advantages:
- Noise Cancellation Proficiency: They are reported to offer a 40% improvement in external sound filtering over their predecessors, positioning them as a top choice for ANC.
Short List for Quick Glance:
- Immersive 360 Audio with motion-tracking feature
- Bixby Voice Wake-Up allowing easy hands-free control
- Native app allowing customization of touch controls
- Fit test allowing utmost comfort while wearing earbuds
- ANC and Ambient mode allowing noise control
- Voice Detect allowing easier conversations while wearing earbuds
- Wireless PowerShare enabling easy charging
- Seamless integration with Samsung Smart TVs
Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro offers users a wide range of functionalities, which allow seamless integration in the Samsung ecosystem. That way, users can revel in a smooth and enjoyable experience across all their devices thanks to Samsung’s innovations, which offer practicality, customization, and advanced technology.
4. Pros and Cons
One thing that potential buyers should do is to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro. Based on the information that has been gathered, you can see a list of the product’s pros and cons below:
Pros:
- Vastly Improved Hi-Res Sound Quality: Thanks to the integration of dual drivers, the earbuds offer strong bass lines and an overall clear sound experience.
- Solid ANC: Earbuds offer active noise cancellation, which is on par with the ANC of top competitors in the wireless earbuds market.
- Classy, Comfortable Design and Finish: The design of the earbuds is extremely compact and practical without sacrificing the style of the product.
- 24-bit Streaming for Galaxy Users: Users who have paired the earbuds to a Galaxy smartphone will be able to enjoy a top-quality 24-bit audio experience.
- Wide Soundstage: Listeners can enjoy an extensive soundstage for a more immersive audio experience.
- Case Charges Wirelessly: To fit the rest of the wireless innovations in our daily lives, the earbud case supports wireless charging.
- Waterproof Design: The enhanced durability of the earbuds along with their waterproof build make the devices suitable for intense workouts and different weather conditions.
- Effective ANC: Listeners can enjoy a more intimate listening experience by canceling any background noise thanks to the ANC feature.
- Easy to Use Features: The earbuds offer enhanced user experience thanks to intuitive features, which can be easily used by any earbuds holder.
- Excellent Connectivity: Earbuds can be paired with various devices, establishing a stable and fast connection, especially within the Samsung ecosystem.
Cons:
- Battery Life is Only Average: The battery life does not stand out compared to competitors and is considered just average.
- In-app EQ Isn’t Customizable: Users have limited control over the equalizer settings within the app, which may not cater to all preferences.
- Disappointing Battery Life: The battery life may not last as long as some might need, which may lead to more frequent charging.
- Bixby Needs Some Work: Bixby, which is Samsung’s voice assistant, still has some areas that need improvement so it can compete with other assistants on the market.
- Most Coveted Features Exclusive to Galaxy Devices: Users without Samsung Galaxy devices will not be able to utilize all features to their fullest extent, which can be a significant limitation for those in different ecosystems.
In conclusion, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro is able to combine high-quality sound, effective ANC, and a user-friendly design. All of these features make the earbuds a great choice, especially for users who have already invested in other devices from the Samsung ecosystem. That said, some potential buyers might be disappointed with the lack of EQ customization and the rather ordinary battery life.
5. User Reviews and Feedback
Here’s what some users have to say about their experience with the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro:
6. Images and Videos
Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Case: Sleekness Enclosed
Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Unveiled: Acoustic Elegance
Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: Iconic Sound in a Single Bud
Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro – Left Bud Inner Detail
7. Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro is a worthy contestant in the wireless earbuds market, offering a particularly great audio experience for users who have already invested in the Samsung ecosystem. The list below provides a concise version of all key points of the product, suggesting whether it is the right earbuds solution for you:
Buy Them If:
-
You’re a Samsung Galaxy User:📱 Seamless Integration: Pairing ease and exclusive features like home-screen widgets. 🎧 Tailored Sound Experience: Optimized for Galaxy devices with 24-bit audio quality.
-
You Crave Top-Quality Sound:🎵 Immersive Audio: The head-tracked 360 audio takes listening to a new level of engagement.
-
You’re Excited by the Latest Audio Tech:🔀 Interactive Listening: The head-tracking feature makes for an interactive, fun experience.
Don’t Buy Them If:
-
Battery Life is Paramount:🔋 Limited Longevity: With ANC on, the battery life may not sustain a long-haul journey.
-
You’re an iPhone User:🍏 Outside the Ecosystem: You miss out on specific features that are exclusive to Samsung.
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You Want a Standout Accessory:💎 Subtle Design: They’re designed to be discreet rather than a statement piece.
While it did take a few iterations for Samsung to perfect the performance of the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, users who are already using Samsung devices will be able to enjoy a great sound experience thanks to these wireless earbuds. They offer an exceptional audio experience with high-quality sound and enticing 3D audio with precise head tracking. The ANC can compete with other noise-canceling earbuds on the market, ensuring an immersive sound experience by canceling out ambient noise. In addition to the noise isolation feature, the design of the earbuds offers a great look and comfortable fit.
In essence, if you’re a fan of the products in the Samsung universe, appreciate high-fidelity audio, and can overlook the battery life, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro can be your next investment, which will bring you an immersive audio experience.