Galaxy Buds 4 Pro vs AirPods Pro 3: Which Earbuds Are Better in 2026?
Wireless earbuds have become one of the most popular tech accessories in the world. Apple currently dominates the market with its AirPods lineup, but Samsung is finally stepping up with the new Galaxy Buds 4 Pro.
So the big question is: Galaxy Buds 4 Pro vs AirPods Pro 3 — which one should you buy?
If you're an Android user looking for the best AirPods alternative for Android, Samsung’s latest earbuds might finally be the answer. In this detailed comparison, we will compare sound quality, active noise cancellation, battery life, design, and call quality to help you decide which earbuds are actually worth your money.
Galaxy Buds 4 Pro vs AirPods Pro 3: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Galaxy Buds 4 Pro | AirPods Pro 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Richer bass and wider soundstage | Balanced and clean sound |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Very good | Best in class |
| Transparency Mode | More natural voice passthrough | Excellent |
| Battery Life | 6 hours | 8–8.5 hours |
| Call Quality | Better microphone | Good |
| Best For | Android users | iPhone users |
Design and Comfort
Starting with design, the AirPods Pro 3 look very similar to the previous generation. Apple has kept the same minimal white design with small improvements to comfort and fit.
One of the biggest upgrades is Apple’s new foam-infused silicone tips. These tips improve passive noise isolation, which also helps improve the overall ANC performance.
On the other hand, Samsung has redesigned the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro. Unlike the awkward triangular stem design from the Buds 3 Pro, the new model features a more refined metal stem with improved controls.
The Buds 4 Pro also support pinch controls similar to AirPods, reducing accidental touches.
Samsung also adds an IP57 rating, meaning the earbuds are protected against dust and water. This makes them slightly more durable for workouts and outdoor use.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
Active noise cancellation is one of the most important features in premium earbuds, and this is where Apple still dominates.
In our Galaxy Buds 4 Pro vs AirPods Pro 3 ANC comparison, both earbuds perform very well when cancelling low-frequency noises such as airplane cabin sounds or air conditioner hum.
However, the AirPods Pro 3 are noticeably better at blocking higher-frequency sounds such as conversations, keyboard typing, or traffic noise.
This makes the AirPods Pro 3 one of the best ANC earbuds available today.
Samsung’s ANC is still impressive, but Apple remains the leader in this category.
Winner: AirPods Pro 3
Transparency Mode
Transparency mode allows outside sounds to pass through so you can hear your surroundings while wearing earbuds.
Apple has been the industry leader in transparency mode for years, but Samsung has made massive improvements this time.
Interestingly, the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro transparency mode sounds slightly more natural when hearing your own voice. The AirPods sometimes add a slightly digital tone.
This makes Samsung’s transparency mode feel more realistic during conversations.
Winner: Galaxy Buds 4 Pro
Sound Quality
This is where Samsung truly shines.
The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro deliver a fuller and more energetic sound profile. The bass is stronger, the soundstage is wider, and instrument separation is noticeably better.
Whether you listen to hip-hop, rock, jazz, or pop music, the Buds 4 Pro sound lively and immersive.
The AirPods Pro 3 follow Apple’s traditional tuning style: balanced and safe. They feature slightly boosted sub-bass and extended treble, making them sound clean across many genres.
However, many listeners may find the Samsung earbuds more exciting.
The Buds 4 Pro also support high-resolution audio when paired with select Samsung flagship phones.
Samsung also allows users to customize the sound using equalizers, something Apple still does not allow natively.
Winner: Galaxy Buds 4 Pro
Call Quality
If you frequently take calls using earbuds, microphone quality is extremely important.
In indoor environments, both earbuds perform well. Voices sound clear and natural.
However, in noisy outdoor environments, the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro microphone performs noticeably better.
Samsung’s noise reduction algorithm removes background noise more effectively, making your voice clearer during calls.
This makes them excellent earbuds for work calls and meetings.
Winner: Galaxy Buds 4 Pro
Battery Life
Battery life is one area where Apple clearly wins.
The AirPods Pro 3 deliver around 8 to 8.5 hours of listening time with ANC enabled.
Meanwhile, the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro last around 6 hours with ANC enabled.
If you enable Samsung’s high-resolution audio codec, the battery life can drop slightly further.
This means Apple’s earbuds last nearly 50% longer on a single charge.
Winner: AirPods Pro 3
Extra Features
Both earbuds include impressive ecosystem features.
The AirPods Pro 3 include several Apple-exclusive features:
- Clinical-grade hearing aid support
- Heart rate monitoring
- Find My tracking
- Charging case speaker
Samsung also includes several unique features in the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro:
- Custom equalizer settings
- Auracast broadcast audio
- Hands-free voice control
- 360° audio recording
Samsung also offers multiple color options, unlike Apple which only offers white.
Galaxy Buds 4 Pro vs AirPods Pro 3: Which Should You Buy?
If you are trying to decide between these two premium earbuds, the choice mostly depends on which smartphone you use.
Buy the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro if:
- You use an Android smartphone
- You want richer sound quality
- You want better call quality
- You want customizable audio
Buy the AirPods Pro 3 if:
- You use an iPhone
- You want the best noise cancellation
- You want longer battery life
- You want deep Apple ecosystem integration
Final Verdict
In this Galaxy Buds 4 Pro vs AirPods Pro 3 comparison, both earbuds are excellent, but they target different users.
The AirPods Pro 3 still offer the best noise cancellation and battery life. However, Samsung finally delivers a serious competitor with the Buds 4 Pro.
If you're looking for the best AirPods alternative for Android, the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro are easily one of the best wireless earbuds you can buy today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Galaxy Buds 4 Pro better than AirPods Pro 3?
The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro offer better sound quality and microphone performance, while the AirPods Pro 3 provide stronger noise cancellation and longer battery life.
Do Galaxy Buds 4 Pro work with iPhone?
Yes, Galaxy Buds 4 Pro work with iPhones, but some advanced features are only available when paired with Samsung smartphones.
What is the best AirPods alternative for Android?
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro are currently one of the best AirPods alternatives for Android thanks to their excellent sound quality, call performance, and ecosystem features.