Galaxy Buds 4 Pro are the latest wireless headphones from Samsung with Adaptive ANC 2.0, Bluetooth 6.1, and a weight of 5.1 g. Compared to Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, they offer better noise cancellation, longer battery life in tests, and head gesture support. They cost 1099 PLN compared to about 650-899 PLN for the older model. Which one to choose? Below is a detailed comparison.
Samsung presented the Samsung Buds 4 Pro on February 25, 2026, and sales in Poland started on March 11. This is the direct successor to the Samsung Buds 3 Pro from July 2024. Both Samsung headphone models have a dual-driver system (dynamic + planar), ANC, and IP57 water resistance, but differ in several significant aspects.
Looking for a case or accessories for your headphones? Check out accessories for Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro and accessories for Galaxy Buds 3 and 3 Pro.
π Galaxy Buds 4 Pro vs Buds 3 Pro Specification
| Parameter | Galaxy Buds 4 Pro | Galaxy Buds 3 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Release | March 2026 | July 2024 |
| Low-frequency driver | 11 mm dynamic | 10.5 mm dynamic |
| High-frequency driver | 5.4 mm planar | 6.1 mm planar |
| ANC | Adaptive ANC 2.0 | Adaptive ANC |
| Bluetooth | 6.1 | 5.4 |
| Codecs | SBC, AAC, LC3, SSC, SSC UHQ | SBC, AAC, LC3, SSC, SSC UHQ |
| Battery (earbud) | 61 mAh | 53 mAh |
| Battery (case) | 530 mAh | 515 mAh |
| Playback time (ANC on) | up to 6 h (tested: 6 h 1 min) | up to 6 h (tested: 4 h 31 min) |
| Playback time with case (ANC on) | up to 26 h | up to 26 h |
| Playback time (ANC off) | up to 7 h | up to 7 h |
| Playback time with case (ANC off) | up to 30 h | up to 30 h |
| Weight (earbud) | 5.1 g | 5.4 g |
| Weight (case) | approx. 44.3 g | 46.5 g |
| Water resistance | IP57 | IP57 |
| Head gestures | yes (answer/reject calls) | no |
| Voice assistant | Gemini + Bixby simultaneously | Bixby or Google Assistant |
| Super Clear Call (SWB) | yes (with Galaxy S26) | no |
| Microphones | 6 (including VPU) | 6 |
| Charging | USB-C + Qi wireless | USB-C + Qi wireless |
| Colors | Black, White, Pink Gold | Silver, White |
| Price in Poland | 1099 PLN | 1029 PLN (launch) / from approx. 650 PLN (current) |
π Sound quality of Galaxy Buds 4 Pro vs Buds 3 Pro
Both models of Samsung in-ear headphones have a dual-driver system, but in the Buds 4 Pro, Samsung replaced both.
Galaxy Buds 4 Pro have a larger 11 mm woofer (vs 10.5 mm). In practice, this provides about 20% more diaphragm area, resulting in deeper, more controlled bass. Reviewers from SoundGuys and What Hi-Fi describe the sound as energetic yet precise, with better instrument separation.
Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, on the other hand, have a larger 6.1 mm planar tweeter (vs 5.4 mm in Buds 4 Pro). Theoretically, this should provide an advantage in high frequencies, but tests show that the Buds 3 Pro tended to have overly strong bass that “bled” into the mids.
Audio codecs
Both models support the same codecs: SBC, AAC, LC3, and Samsung Seamless Codec (SSC UHQ) with a resolution of up to 24 bit/96 kHz. Neither supports LDAC or aptX. SSC UHQ requires a Samsung Galaxy S23 or newer smartphone with One UI 6.1.1+.
This means that you will only get the full sound quality with a Samsung smartphone. With an iPhone or phones from other brands, these Samsung wireless headphones are limited to AAC, which is a noticeable loss of quality compared to SSC UHQ.
Tuning and sound character
The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro have a slightly darker tuning with less emphasis on the high frequencies. The bass is deep but does not dominate the rest of the range. The mid frequencies (vocals, acoustic instruments) sound cleaner than in the predecessor.
The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro have a brighter tuning with more detail in the high frequencies. The soundstage is slightly wider, but the bass can be too expansive, which in some genres (e.g., EDM, hip-hop) leads to “muddiness” in the low frequencies.
The Buds 4 Pro win in sound quality. Better controlled bass, cleaner mid frequencies, and generally a more balanced presentation. The difference is not revolutionary, but it is noticeable.
π ANC: Galaxy Buds 4 Pro vs Buds 3 Pro
This is one of the biggest leaps between generations of these Samsung headphones.
Galaxy Buds 4 Pro feature Adaptive ANC 2.0, which monitors the environment in real-time and adjusts the noise cancellation to specific frequencies. In SoundGuys tests, these Samsung wireless earbuds reduced around 84% of ambient noise, placing them on par with AirPods Pro 3.
Galaxy Buds 3 Pro have first-generation Adaptive ANC, which operates based on programmed algorithms. It still provides effective noise reduction, but does not respond as dynamically to changing conditions.
The biggest improvement is seen in the range below 1 kHz, where the noise from air conditioning, fans, and street traffic resides. Both models struggle with sudden loud sounds.
Ambient Mode and Voice Detection
Both Samsung earbuds have:
– Voice Detection: automatic switching to ambient mode when you start speaking
– Ambient Mode: allowing sounds from the environment
– Adaptive EQ: adjustment to the shape of the ear
In ambient mode, Buds 4 Pro sound a bit more natural. The sounds from the environment do not have the “metallic” aftertaste that sometimes appeared in Buds 3 Pro. This is important if you use ambient mode on a daily basis (e.g., in the office).
Buds 4 Pro win this category. Adaptive ANC 2.0 is a real improvement, not a marketing slogan.
ποΈ Call Quality
Here the difference is most apparent and concerns both sides of the connection.
Galaxy Buds 4 Pro have 6 microphones with a VPU (Voice Pickup Unit) sensor, meaning bone conduction. Additionally, they feature Super Clear Call technology with a bandwidth of 16 kHz (Super Wideband), but only when paired with the Galaxy S26.
In a quiet environment, the voice sounds clear and natural. In noise, the microphone performs well, although there is a slight “digitalization” of the voice. The VPU captures vibrations from the jawbone, which helps isolate the voice from background noise.
Galaxy Buds 3 Pro also have 6 microphones, but without the VPU sensor. They support AI noise cancellation, but reviewers rated the call quality as “below average,” especially in loud environments.
Super Clear Call is an exclusive feature of the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro that doubles the voice bandwidth (from 8 kHz to 16 kHz). In practice, the caller hears you more clearly, and your voice sounds more natural. However, this requires the Galaxy S26, S26+, or S26 Ultra.
Winner: Buds 4 Pro. VPU and Super Clear Call are noticeable improvements, especially for those who make a lot of phone calls.
π Samsung Buds 4 Pro vs Buds 3 Pro Battery
On paper, both models look identical: 6 hours with ANC, 7 hours without ANC, 26/30 hours with the case. But tests from independent publications paint a different picture.
| Parameter | Buds 4 Pro (test) | Buds 3 Pro (test) |
|---|---|---|
| ANC on (SoundGuys) | 6 h 1 min | 4 h 31 min |
| Headphone capacity | 61 mAh | 53 mAh |
| Case capacity | 530 mAh | 515 mAh |
Galaxy Buds 4 Pro with a 61 mAh battery (15% more than Buds 3 Pro) achieved exactly 6 hours and 1 minute in SoundGuys tests with ANC on. This result is close to the manufacturer’s claims.
Galaxy Buds 3 Pro with a 53 mAh battery lasted only 4 hours and 31 minutes in the same tests, which is 25% less than the claimed 6 hours.
Both models charge via USB-C and wirelessly (Qi). Samsung does not provide exact charging times, but in practice, fully charging the case with a cable takes about 1.5 hours. The earbuds themselves charge to full in about 50-60 minutes while in the case.
Battery: Advantage Buds 4 Pro. An hour and a half longer battery life in real conditions is a significant difference, especially during travel or long workouts.
π¨ Design and Comfort
Samsung has changed its approach to design in the Buds 4 Pro, focusing on premium materials.
Galaxy Buds 4 Pro have metal (aluminum) stems with a matte finish and delicate touch grooves. The case is flat, horizontal, with a transparent cover through which the earbuds are visible. Weighing 5.1 g per earbud makes them one of the lighter in this class.
Galaxy Buds 3 Pro have plastic stems with a backlit LED strip that lights up during pairing and notifications. The case is vertical, traditional, without a transparent cover. Weighing 5.4 g per earbud.
Fit and Ear Tips
The difference of 0.3 g per earbud sounds like nothing, but it matters during hours of wear. Both models come with 4 sizes of silicone ear tips (XS, S, M, L). Samsung claims that the Buds 4 Pro were designed based on the analysis of 100 million ear scans and 10,000 virtual simulations.
In practice, both models sit securely in the ear and are suitable for running and exercising. The IP57 certification means protection against dust and immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, which is sufficient for sweating during workouts.
Available colors:
– Buds 4 Pro: Black, White, Pink Gold
– Buds 3 Pro: Silver, White
A tie with a slight advantage for Buds 4 Pro. The aluminum stems look premium, and the lighter weight improves comfort. But if you like the LED on the stems of Buds 3 Pro, it’s a matter of taste.
π± Smart features and Samsung ecosystem
Head gestures (only Buds 4 Pro)
A new feature exclusive to Samsung Buds 4 Pro: nodding your head answers a call, shaking your head rejects it. Works only with Samsung phones. A small but useful novelty when your hands are busy while cooking, training, or cycling.
Voice assistant
Buds 4 Pro support both Gemini and Bixby simultaneously: you say “Hey Google” or “Hey Bixby” without needing to select in settings. Buds 3 Pro require choosing one assistant (Bixby, Google Assistant, or Siri).
Having a dual assistant means you can use Gemini for questions and searches, and Bixby for controlling your Samsung phone settings. It’s a convenient solution for Galaxy ecosystem users.
Spatial Audio and 360 Audio
Both Samsung headphone models support spatial audio with head tracking. The effect is most noticeable when watching movies on the Samsung Galaxy Tab. In music, Spatial Audio can be controversial as it widens the soundstage at the expense of precision.
Other Common Features
Both models have:
– Real-Time Interpreter: real-time conversation translation (requires Galaxy AI)
– Auracast: audio sharing via Bluetooth LE Audio (e.g., sharing music with a friend)
– SmartThings Find: locating lost earbuds
– Adapt Sound: sound personalization based on hearing tests
– Dialogue Boost: enhancing dialogues in movies and podcasts
– Fall Detection: automatic notification to emergency contacts
Compatibility with Phones
These Samsung earbuds work with both Android and iOS. However, you will only fully utilize their capabilities (SSC UHQ, head gestures, Super Clear Call, Galaxy AI) with a Samsung smartphone.
With an iPhone, you lose: head gestures, Super Clear Call, SSC UHQ codec, SmartThings Find, and automatic pairing. You are left with AAC, basic ANC, and touch controls. If you have an iPhone, consider AirPods Pro 3 as an alternative.
π° Price of Galaxy Buds 4 Pro vs Buds 3 Pro in Poland
| Model | Launch Price | Current Price (March 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Galaxy Buds 4 Pro | 1099 PLN | 1099 PLN |
| Galaxy Buds 3 Pro | 1029 PLN | from approx. 650 PLN |
This is the most important difference in this comparison. Samsung Buds 3 Pro, which launched at 1029 PLN, can now be purchased for 650-899 PLN (depending on the store and promotions). Galaxy Buds 4 Pro cost 1099 PLN without discounts.
The difference between the launch prices is only 70 PLN. But between the current price of Buds 3 Pro and Buds 4 Pro, it is even 200-450 PLN.
The question then comes down to: is Adaptive ANC 2.0, better battery performance in tests, head gestures, and Bluetooth 6.1 worth the extra 200-450 PLN?
If you are buying Samsung earbuds for several years and care about the best ANC and calls, the answer is yes. If you are looking for good value for money, Buds 3 Pro for 650-700 PLN are still great wireless earbuds from Samsung.
In Europe, the price of Galaxy Buds 4 Pro is 249 euros, which is identical to the launch price of Buds 3 Pro. In the USA, both models were priced at 249.99 USD, but Buds 3 Pro can now be purchased for about 170-190 USD.
π Who should choose which Samsung earbuds?
Choose Galaxy Buds 4 Pro if:
- You care about the best ANC in the Samsung ecosystem
- You make a lot of phone calls
- You have a Galaxy S26 (Super Clear Call)
- You want head gestures and dual assistant (Gemini + Bixby)
- You bought a Samsung phone in 2026 and want a complete set
Choose Galaxy Buds 3 Pro if:
- You want to save 200-450 PLN
- You don’t need the latest ANC
- Sound is more important than call quality
- You are looking for solid wireless earbuds at a good price
- You have an older Samsung phone (Buds 3 Pro work great anyway)
Do you need a case for your earbuds? Check out accessories for Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro or Galaxy Buds 3 and 3 Pro in our store.
β FAQ
Do Galaxy Buds 4 Pro work with iPhone?
Yes. Buds 4 Pro connect to iOS via Bluetooth, but you lose features exclusive to Samsung: head gestures, Super Clear Call, Gemini/Bixby, SmartThings Find, and automatic pairing.
Do Galaxy Buds 3 Pro support LDAC?
No. Neither the Buds 3 Pro nor the Buds 4 Pro support the LDAC codec. Both models use Samsung Seamless Codec (SSC UHQ) offering quality up to 24 bit/96 kHz, but only with Samsung smartphones.
Do Buds 4 Pro have better sound than Buds 3 Pro?
Yes, but the difference is not drastic. The Buds 4 Pro have better-controlled bass and clearer mid-tones thanks to a larger 11 mm driver. In blind tests, audiophiles will mainly notice the difference.
Is it worth buying Buds 3 Pro in 2026?
Yes. For 650-700 PLN, they are one of the best wireless headphones from Samsung with ANC, planar sound, and IP57. The price drop after the release of Buds 4 Pro makes them a great deal.
How much do Galaxy Buds 4 Pro cost in Poland?
The launch price of the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro in Poland is 1099 PLN. They are available in three colors: Black, White, and Pink Gold.
Do Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro have noise cancellation?
Yes. The Buds 4 Pro feature Adaptive ANC 2.0, which is next-generation active noise cancellation that monitors the environment in real-time and adjusts the attenuation to specific frequencies.
What is the difference between Galaxy Buds 4 Pro and regular Galaxy Buds 4?
Galaxy Buds 4 Pro have a dual-driver system (dynamic + planar), Adaptive ANC 2.0, Bluetooth 6.1, and VPU. Regular Galaxy Buds 4 have a single driver, basic ANC, and Bluetooth 5.4. The price difference is about 400 PLN.
Summary
Galaxy Buds 4 Pro are an evolution, not a revolution, compared to Galaxy Buds 3 Pro. The most important upgrades are Adaptive ANC 2.0 (realistically better noise cancellation), Bluetooth 6.1, head gestures, dual AI assistant, and better battery in tests (6 h vs 4.5 h with ANC).
Is it worth the extra cost? At the full launch price (1099 vs 1029 PLN), the answer is: yes. At the current price of Buds 3 Pro (about 650-700 PLN), the decision is more difficult, because for almost half the price you get 80-90% of the experience.
Our verdict: Galaxy Buds 4 Pro are the best earbuds Samsung has ever made. But if your budget is limited, Galaxy Buds 3 Pro for 650-700 PLN is one of the best deals on the wireless earbuds market in 2026.
Check out Samsung headphone accessories in our store. And if you’re also planning a new phone, make sure to take care of its proper protection β check outcases for Galaxy S26 Ultra and glass for Galaxy S26 Ultra, which will protect the body and screen from damage.
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