Samsung Galaxy Buds 3

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3: Adaptive ANC, Hi-Res Audio

Launched on July 10, 2024, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 are premium TWS earbuds priced under at ₹15,000 in India (including instant bank discounts). Drawing design inspiration from ergonomic 3D ear data for a stem-like “blade” structure, these open-type Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 earbuds emphasize natural fit over sealed isolation.

Key features include Adaptive ANC for dynamic noise reduction, a 1.1 cm dynamic driver for immersive audio, support for SBC, AAC, and Samsung Seamless Codec (SSC) for Hi-Fi sound up to 24-bit/96kHz on compatible devices. Battery life offers up to 6 hours playback without ANC, extending to 30 hours with the case.

Smart integrations like Galaxy AI for real-time translation and Adaptive EQ tailor sound to your environment, making the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 ideal for seamless daily use.

🎨 Design & Comfort

The Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 boast a sleek, angular blade stem design in White or Silver finishes, with a matte texture that resists fingerprints and smudges. Each earbud weighs just 4.7g, while the compact charging case adds 46.5g, making the total package lightweight at 55.9g.

The case features a transparent lid, USB-C port, and LED indicators for battery status, with no physical buttons but a dedicated Bluetooth pairing option inside. Open-type without ear tips or fins, they rely on an angled ergonomic shape for stability, optimized to reduce ear canal pressure.

Durability shines with an IP57 rating, protecting against dust and submersion in up to 1m of fresh water for 30 minutes—ideal for workouts or rain. Long-wear comfort is excellent for those preferring non-intrusive fit, though it may vary by ear shape, potentially loosening during intense movement.

📱 Connectivity & Compatibility

Bluetooth 5.4 ensures stable connections with a range up to 10m, supporting codecs like SBC, AAC, and SSC for high-quality streaming on Samsung devices. Low-latency mode minimizes audio lag for gaming or videos, while auto-switching seamlessly transitions between compatible Galaxy phones, tablets, or PCs.

Adaptive ANC adjusts in two levels (high/low), with ENC enhancing call clarity via 6 microphones. Full compatibility requires Android 10+ with the Galaxy Wearable app; iOS and PC users get basic Bluetooth pairing but miss app-based tweaks like EQ or firmware updates. No true multipoint, but Samsung ecosystem enables dual-device handling.

🔊 Audio Performance

A single 11mm dynamic driver delivers sound across a 20Hz-20kHz frequency range, with a warm signature emphasizing balanced mids and bass for pop or podcasts. Highs are crisp but can feel recessed, occasionally sharp without personalization.

App-based EQ offers presets like Bass Boost or Treble Boost, plus Adaptive EQ that analyses ambient noise for real-time tuning. 360° Spatial Audio with head-tracking creates immersive experiences on supported Galaxy devices, backed by Hi-Res certification via SSC.

Microphone performance is solid for calls, with VPU (Voice Pickup Unit) reducing background noise, though windy conditions may introduce minor interference.

🧠 Smart Features

Touch controls are intuitive: single pinch for play/pause, double for next track, triple for previous, and swipe on the blade for volume. Long-press toggles ANC/Ambient modes, customizable via app.

In-ear detection pauses music when removed, resuming on reinsert. App integration includes sound modes (Adaptive, Ambient), voice assistant support for Bixby or Google Assistant, and auto-pairing with Galaxy devices. Galaxy AI adds features like Interpreter for real-time translation and Neck Stretch Reminder via Samsung Health. Auracast enables audio sharing, while Voice Detect auto-adjusts for conversations.

🔋 Battery & Charging

Each earbud packs a 48mAh battery, with the case at 515mAh. Playback lasts up to 6 hours ANC off (5 hours on), totalling 30 hours (24 hours ANC on) from the case. Talk time: 4 hours ANC off (3.5 hours on), up to 20 hours total (18 hours ANC on).

Quick charge: 10 minutes yields about 1 hour playback. Full charging takes 1.5 hours via USB-C or wireless (Qi-compatible). “5 hours playback with ANC on from a 10-min charge.”

🛡️ What’s in the Box

The Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 package includes the earbuds themselves, a compact charging case with transparent lid, a USB-C charging cable for wired power-ups, user manuals detailing setup and features, and a warranty card for one-year coverage against manufacturing defects. No extra accessories like ear tips are provided due to the open-type design, ensuring everything needed for immediate use is ready out of the box.

Buying Guide

Reasons to Buy

• Exceptional value for Samsung users with seamless ecosystem integration.
• Adaptive EQ and Galaxy Wearable app for personalized, high-quality audio.
• Effective Adaptive ANC for open-type earbuds, ideal for daily commutes.
• Lightweight, ergonomic design ensures comfort for extended wear.
• Long battery life with up to 30 hours total playback (ANC off).
• Galaxy AI features like real-time translation enhance versatility.

Consider before Buying

• Open fit may cause inconsistent bass/highs depending on ear shape.
• ANC struggles with high-frequency noises compared to sealed earbuds.
• No wireless charging support for the case, unlike some competitors.
• Glossy case finish may attract smudges or minor scratches.
• Hi-Res audio and advanced features limited to Samsung devices.
• Battery drains faster during calls or heavy ANC use.

Review

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 review

FAQ's

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Samsung Galaxy Buds 3

What is the latency on Samsung Galaxy Buds 3?
Low-latency mode via Bluetooth 5.4 keeps audio sync under 100ms for videos/gaming; enable in the Galaxy Wearable app for optimal performance.

How long is the playback time?
Up to 6 hours per charge without ANC (5 hours with), totalling 30 hours (24 hours ANC on) including the case—real-world varies by volume and features.

Are they compatible with iPhone?
Yes, via basic Bluetooth pairing for audio/calls, but no app access means missing EQ, ANC tweaks, or firmware updates; best with Android/Samsung.

Do they support wireless charging?
The case supports Qi wireless charging alongside USB-C; place on a compatible pad for cable-free power.

What’s the charging time?
Full charge takes about 1.5 hours via USB-C; case recharges buds multiple times, with 10 minutes yielding ~1 hour playback.

How is the battery life during calls?
Up to 4 hours ANC off (3.5 hours on) per charge, extending to 20 hours total (18 hours ANC on) with the case—drains faster in noisy environments.

Is there a gaming mode?
Yes, low-latency mode reduces lag for gaming; activate in the app under Labs for smoother sync on compatible devices.

What are the ANC levels?
Adaptive ANC offers high/low settings, auto-adjusting to noise; Ambient mode lets in sounds, but open design limits max isolation compared to sealed earbuds.

Do they have fast charging?
Yes, 10 minutes provide up to 1 hour playback (ANC off); quick top-ups are ideal for on-the-go use.

What’s the IP rating and auto-pairing?
IP57 for dust/water resistance (buds only). Auto-pairing works seamlessly with Galaxy devices; in-ear detection pauses/resumes music, with fast pair for Android.