Samsung Galaxy Buds Guide: FE, Buds 3, Buds 4 and Pro

If you own a Samsung phone, Galaxy Buds are the natural choice. They pair quickly through a pop-up on the phone and work with Samsung's Galaxy Wearable app. Samsung has released many generations, so a little guidance helps.

Budget options: Buds Core and Buds FE

The Galaxy Buds FE was built to be an affordable way to get Samsung's earbuds experience. It offers active noise cancellation at a lower price and a secure fit with wing tips. The Buds Core is even more basic, with an emphasis on value. Check each listing for the specific features.

Buds 2

An older but still useful model, the Buds 2 has a compact design and noise cancellation. It is a good low-cost choice when in stock, though its age means battery life and features may lag behind newer pairs.

Buds Live

The bean-shaped Buds Live remain one of Samsung's more unusual designs. They rest in the ear and do not seal. Noise cancellation is therefore limited, but some people find them more comfortable.

Buds 3, Buds 3 FE and Buds 3 Pro

The Buds 3 generation introduced a stem design. The standard Buds 3 is open-fit, the Buds 3 FE is a more affordable option, and the Buds 3 Pro uses silicone tips for better isolation and stronger noise cancellation. If you commute or work in noisy spaces, choose a sealing fit.

Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro

These are the newest models in our listings. Please check each listing for up-to-date specifications.

How to choose

Fit comes first. If you dislike silicone tips, an open-fit model such as Buds 3 is more comfortable, but it blocks less noise. If you want quiet, choose a sealed Pro or FE model.

Next, consider where you listen. For busy roads and offices, noise cancellation matters. For quiet places and casual use, it matters less.

Finally, consider which phone you have. Some features, including certain high-quality codecs and Galaxy AI functions, work only with supported Samsung phones. Galaxy Buds work with other Android phones and iPhones, but you may lose app-based features. iPhone owners should compare with AirPods.

Keeping them working

Earbuds are small, so losing one is easy. Use Find My Mobile through SmartThings where supported. Clean the mesh gently and keep the charging contacts dry. Like any lithium battery, those in earbuds degrade over time.

Pair your buds with a Galaxy Watch if you want music during workouts without your phone, on supported models. For wider options, see our earbuds buying guide.