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Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C) vs Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C) comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C) - Great overall at around $125.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C)
Sound8.5
Noise cancelling9.0
Battery7.5
Calls8.0
Value7.5
Samsung Galaxy Buds FE
Sound7.5
Noise cancelling7.0
Battery6.0
Calls7.5
Value8.0

Specifications

Specification comparison of Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C) vs Samsung Galaxy Buds FE
SpecApple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C)Samsung Galaxy Buds FE
TypeTrue WirelessTrue Wireless
Price (USD)$125$70
HearWiki score84 / 100 · Great72 / 100 · Good
Released20222024
Audio
Driverdynamicdynamic
Driver size11 mm6.5 mm
Drivers per side21
Frequency response20 Hz - 20,000 Hz20Hz-20kHz
Impedance16 Ω-
Sensitivity100 dB/mW-
Wireless
Bluetooth5.35.x
Bluetooth version5.35.2
CodecsSBC, AACSBC, AAC, SSC
Multipoint pairingNoYes
Battery
Battery life-8.5 h
Battery life (ANC on)-6 h
Battery incl. case30 h30 h
Full charge time-96 min
Quick charge-10 min = 2.5 h
Wireless chargingYesNo
Features
Active noise cancelling-Yes
ANC typeadaptiveactive
Transparency modeYesYes
Companion appYesYes
Custom EQNoYes
Wear detectionYesNo
Controlsbothtouch
Voice assistantSiribuilt-in voice assistant support
Design
Weight10.6 g5.6 g
Case weight50.8 g40 g
Water resistanceIP54IPX2
FoldableNo-
Detachable cableNo-
USB-CYesYes
Calls
Microphones-3

What reviewers said

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C)

These wireless earbuds deliver strong active noise cancellation and a natural-sounding transparency mode, making them a solid pick for Apple users. With around 6 hours of playback per charge and a case that boosts total listening time to 30 hours, they offer dependable daily use. The IP54 rating adds some protection against sweat and splashes, while Bluetooth 5.3 ensures a stable connection for most devices.

  • Pro:Excellent active noise cancellation
  • Pro:Natural transparency mode for ambient awareness
  • Pro:Decent battery life with case
  • Con:No multipoint connection
  • Con:Limited to AAC codec
  • Con:No custom EQ in app

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE

The Samsung Galaxy Buds FE deliver impressive audio quality and effective noise cancellation at a budget-friendly price, making them a standout choice under $100. They offer a comfortable, secure fit and clear call performance, though some premium conveniences are missing. Battery life is decent in practice, though it may fall short of the company's stated figures.

  • Pro:Excellent sound for the price
  • Pro:Comfortable and secure fit
  • Pro:Effective active noise cancellation
  • Con:No multipoint connection
  • Con:IPX2 rating offers limited water resistance
  • Con:Battery life may be shorter than advertised

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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