Apple AirPods Pro 2 and Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are the two best premium wireless earbuds of 2026, each dominating their respective ecosystems. This side-by-side comparison breaks down ANC performance, audio quality, battery life, and value to help you pick the right pair.
AirPods Pro 2 vs Galaxy Buds3 Pro: Full Comparison
AirPods Pro 2: Strengths
- Best Adaptive Transparency Mode — AirPods Pro 2's Adaptive Audio seamlessly blends ANC and Transparency based on your environment; Buds3 Pro can't match this
- Hearing health features — FDA-cleared as a hearing aid supplement in the US
- Apple ecosystem integration — instant pairing, iCloud sync, Find My, Siri hands-free
- $20 cheaper — $179 vs $199 at launch
Galaxy Buds3 Pro: Strengths
- Hi-Fi 24-bit audio — lossless quality when paired with Galaxy devices supporting Samsung Seamless Codec
- IP57 rating — rated for immersion up to 1 meter; AirPods Pro 2 is only splash resistant (IP54)
- 360 Audio with Dolby Head Tracking — spatial audio for Galaxy ecosystem rivaling Apple's
- Open-type blade design — unique aesthetic with wing tips for secure sport fit
Verdict
iPhone users: AirPods Pro 2. No contest — the ecosystem integration alone justifies it, and Adaptive Audio is in a class of its own. Samsung Galaxy users: Galaxy Buds3 Pro. The Hi-Fi 24-bit codec, IP57 waterproofing, and deep Galaxy integration make Buds3 Pro the clear winner for Android users.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do AirPods Pro 2 work with Samsung phones?
Yes, AirPods Pro 2 connect via Bluetooth to any device, including Samsung Galaxy phones. However, features like Adaptive Audio, Siri, and Find My only work with Apple devices.
Do Galaxy Buds3 Pro work with iPhone?
Yes, they connect via Bluetooth to iPhone. However, Galaxy-specific features like Hi-Fi 24-bit audio, 360 Audio, and SmartThings integration are only available on Samsung Galaxy devices.
Which has better ANC — AirPods Pro 2 or Galaxy Buds3 Pro?
RTINGS.com consistently rates AirPods Pro 2 ANC higher for blocking low-frequency noise (planes, trains). Galaxy Buds3 Pro is competitive but slightly behind in overall noise reduction.
Are Galaxy Buds3 Pro waterproof?
The Galaxy Buds3 Pro earbuds are IP57 rated — dustproof and can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. The case is IP54 (splash resistant only).
Last updated: May 15, 2026 · Sources: RTINGS.com ANC comparison, Apple (apple.com), Samsung (samsung.com), The Verge 2024 earbuds roundup