Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro Review: Upgrades Tested
Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro Review: Key Upgrades Analyzed
If you're considering Samsung's latest premium earbuds, you need to know whether the Buds 4 Pro's upgrades justify their $250 price tag. After testing these redesigned earbuds and comparing them to previous models and competitors, I'll break down exactly what's changed. You'll get my hands-on assessment of the new computational fit design, audio improvements, and whether Samsung finally closes the noise-cancelling gap with Sony and Apple. Let's dive into what matters for your listening experience.
Design and Comfort Improvements
Samsung rebuilt the Buds 4 Pro with computational design for better fit—a noticeable upgrade from the Buds 3 Pro. The reshaped buds sit more securely during workouts or commutes. Available in black, white, or new pink gold, they look more premium than predecessors.
The square charging case marks a significant departure from last year's rectangle. While slightly larger than early Galaxy Buds cases, it supports wireless charging. One practical note: the symmetrical design means you might fumble when opening it blindly until muscle memory develops. Battery life remains unchanged at six hours per charge with noise cancelling on plus 20 extra hours in the case.
Performance and Sound Quality Tested
Audio and Noise Cancelling
Samsung claims 3dB better noise reduction, and in testing, the Buds 4 Pro deliver stronger adaptive noise cancelling than previous models. Bass extends deeper while maintaining clear instrument separation—a tangible improvement for genres like jazz or electronic. However, they still trail class leaders; Apple's AirPods Pro and Sony's WF-1000XM5 handle sudden noises like subway brakes more effectively.
The transparency mode stands out as a top-tier feature. Dubbed "ambient mode" by Samsung, it sounds incredibly natural with zero audible hiss, matching Apple's industry benchmark. For calls, the noise reduction excels at blocking wind or traffic, and the side-tone feature (hearing your own voice) prevents shouting during meetings.
Controls and Daily Use
Pinch-and-swipe controls function flawlessly for volume adjustments or track skipping. Unlike some competitors, these gestures rarely misfire with gloves or sweaty hands. The IPX7 rating means they withstand heavy rain or gym sessions—a key advantage over Apple's IP54-rated AirPods Pro.
Value Assessment and Comparisons
Buds 4 Pro vs. Buds 4
At $180, the standard Buds 4 use an open design without silicone tips. While Samsung claims performance improvements, they lack the noise isolation and audio depth of the Pro model. If you prioritize calls or podcasts in quiet spaces, they're serviceable. For immersive sound or travel, the Pro's ANC justifies the $70 premium.
Competitive Landscape
Against $250 rivals, the Buds 4 Pro excel in transparency mode and call clarity but fall slightly short in pure noise blocking. Android users gain seamless integration with Galaxy devices, while iPhone owners should consider AirPods Pro for ecosystem benefits. Critical insight: These represent Samsung's best effort yet, but audiophiles seeking absolute noise cancellation may prefer Sony.
Buyer's Checklist and Recommendations
Actionable steps before purchasing:
- Test fit with different ear tip sizes (included) to maximize noise isolation
- Enable "adaptive noise control" in the Galaxy Wearable app for automatic mode switching
- Compare voice call quality in windy environments against your current earbuds
Recommended resources:
- CNET's comparison tool (ideal for spec-by-spec analysis against AirPods Pro)
- RTINGS.com frequency response charts (for audiophiles tuning EQ settings)
- Samsung's 30-day return policy (crucial for real-world fit testing)
Final Verdict
The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro offer meaningful upgrades in comfort, soundstage, and transparency mode—making them Samsung's most compelling premium earbuds yet. While noise cancelling still lags behind class leaders, they're a smart choice for Galaxy users seeking great call quality and natural ambient awareness. Which feature matters most for your daily use—battery life, ANC, or call clarity? Share your priority below!
