Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro (2024) vs Galaxy Buds2 Pro (2022) — two generations of Samsung's premium earbuds. The Buds3 Pro bring a radical new open-type blade design, Bluetooth 5.4, and enhanced 360 Audio. Is it worth upgrading from Buds2 Pro? Here's the full breakdown.
Galaxy Buds3 Pro vs Buds2 Pro: Full Spec Comparison
| Spec |
Galaxy Buds3 Pro (2024) |
Galaxy Buds2 Pro (2022) |
| Design |
Open-type blade (new) |
Traditional in-ear |
| ANC |
Intelligent 3-mic ANC |
Intelligent 3-mic ANC |
| Audio |
Hi-Fi 24-bit + enhanced 360 Audio |
Hi-Fi 24-bit + 360 Audio Dolby |
| Bluetooth |
5.4 |
5.3 |
| Codec |
Samsung Seamless Codec (lossless) |
Samsung Seamless Codec |
| Battery |
6h (26h case) |
5h (18h case) |
| Water Resistance |
IP57 (buds) / IP54 (case) |
IPX7 (buds) / IPX2 (case) |
| Weight |
5.5g per bud |
5.5g per bud |
| Galaxy AI |
Yes — Live Translate, Interpreter |
No |
| Price |
$199 (launch) / now lower |
$229 (launch) / now discounted |
Key Improvements in Buds3 Pro
-
Open-type blade design — sits in the outer ear bowl with wing tips rather than sealing the canal; more comfortable for extended wear according to many users
-
Galaxy AI integration — Live Translate and Interpreter functions require Buds3 Pro
-
Better battery — 6h per charge vs 5h; 26h total vs 18h total
-
Bluetooth 5.4 — more stable connection, especially when switching between Galaxy devices
-
IP57 case — Buds2 Pro case was only IPX2; Buds3 Pro case handles splashes better
When to Keep Your Buds2 Pro
If you prefer traditional in-ear sealed earbuds for maximum ANC isolation, the Buds2 Pro may actually suit you better — the Buds3 Pro's open design lets in more ambient noise by design. The Buds2 Pro can often be found at significant discounts in 2026, making them exceptional value if the new design isn't appealing.
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Samsung Galaxy Buds3 ProNEWEST 2024
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do Galaxy Buds3 Pro have better ANC than Buds2 Pro?
In RTINGS.com testing, both have similar ANC performance — the 3-mic system is nearly identical in both generations. The Buds3 Pro's open design means slightly less passive isolation before ANC activates.
Are Galaxy Buds3 Pro comfortable?
The open-type blade design is considered very comfortable for extended wear since it doesn't seal the ear canal. However, some users prefer the traditional in-ear seal of Buds2 Pro for a more secure gym fit.
Does Galaxy Buds3 Pro work with non-Samsung Android phones?
Yes — they connect via Bluetooth to any Android phone. However, Galaxy AI features like Live Translate require a Samsung Galaxy phone running One UI 6.1 or later.
Is Galaxy Buds2 Pro being discontinued?
Samsung has shifted focus to Buds3 Pro as the current flagship, but Buds2 Pro remains available at discounted prices. It is an excellent choice for buyers who prefer in-ear over the new open design.
Last updated: May 15, 2026 · Sources: Samsung (samsung.com), RTINGS.com Galaxy Buds comparison, Android Authority Buds3 Pro review