Samsung’s latest Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro headphones continue to evolve with refined designs, enhanced sound quality, and feature-rich experiences primarily optimized for Samsung Galaxy phone users. Despite impressive audio performance, active noise cancellation remains an area needing improvement, particularly on the standard Buds 4 model.
A Refined Design That Retains Familiar Elements
The new Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro maintain Samsung’s “blade” design lineage introduced last year, moving away from previous stem styles to a flatter panel with a metal finish. While the overall shapes are consistent with prior models, Samsung removed some gimmicks like blade lighting and improved the tactile swipe and press controls through an indented surface.
The charging case design has shifted back to a rounded square form factor from earlier generations, with earbuds resting flat instead of vertically. The translucent lid remains, allowing users to see the earbuds inside without opening the case. Durability varies between the two models, with the Pro offering IP57-rated water and dust resistance while the standard Buds 4 come with IP54 protection.
Samsung Phone Integration Unlocks Most Features
To access the full suite of features including Adaptive EQ 2.0, 360 audio with head tracking, Auracast, head gesture controls, and AI assistance through Bixby or Gemini, users need to pair the earbuds with a Samsung Galaxy phone. Non-Samsung Android phones and iPhones can only utilize basic functions such as ANC, ambient sound, and basic controls.
The Buds 4 Pro additionally support voice detection that adjusts volume and ambient sound automatically when speaking, as well as hands-free AI assistant access, features not fully available on the open-fit Buds 4 or non-Samsung devices. Integration is seamless for Galaxy phone users, mirroring Apple’s approach with AirPods.
Notable Sound Quality Improvements
Both models deliver strong audio experiences, with the Buds 4 Pro featuring a two-way driver system that produces rich, clear sound with lively bass and pronounced vocals. The Buds 4 maintain solid sound output, although with less bass depth and dynamic range compared to the Pro variant.
Listeners reported detailed and balanced audio across various music genres with both models, making them competitive choices in the wireless earbuds market.
Active Noise Cancellation Performance
The Galaxy Buds 4 offer basic ANC that provides modest noise reduction, more akin to active noise reduction rather than full cancellation, which may disappoint users expecting stronger isolation. The Buds 4 Pro improve upon this with Adaptive ANC 2.0, effectively reducing constant ambient noises such as fans or dryers.
However, the Pro model still struggles with sudden loud noises and cannot fully match noise cancellation offered by top-tier competitors like Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. Both earbuds also provide natural-sounding ambient modes to help users stay aware of their surroundings.
Calls and Voice Quality
Samsung’s earbuds deliver clear and crisp voice quality in quiet environments, supported by advanced features such as 16kHz super wideband mode and noise suppression technology, although full performance requires pairing with a Galaxy S26 series phone. In noisy settings, voice clarity dips slightly due to heavy processing to reduce background noise.
The ambient sound mode on the Buds 4 Pro helps users avoid raising their voices during calls, adding to the convenience for busy environments.
Market Position and Competition
Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro stand out as the best earbuds for Samsung Galaxy phone owners, offering tight ecosystem integration and advanced features comparable to Apple’s AirPods and Google’s Pixel Buds.
For users prioritizing noise cancellation and sound quality without brand loyalty, third-party options like Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds remain a top recommendation due to superior ANC and multipoint Bluetooth connectivity.
Conclusion
Samsung continues to close the gap in delivering premium wireless earbuds tailored for its smartphone users. The Galaxy Buds 4 line improves in sound quality and feature set, though noise cancellation on the standard model is underwhelming. Design refinements and new controls offer a polished, contemporary feel.
To become a must-have accessory on par with Apple’s AirPods, Samsung needs to introduce more unique features and enhancements, especially in health-sensing and more effective noise cancellation technologies in future iterations.
