Looking for wireless earbuds?

Looking for wireless earbuds? Read our comparison of the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and Sony WF-1000XM4. Find out which is better in terms of design, audio quality, ANC, battery life, water resistance, and more!

SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds Pro 2 [2022] (SM-R510) - (Gray)

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When it comes to wireless earbuds, the battle between the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and the Sony WF-1000XM4 is fierce. On one side, you have the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, smaller and lighter with good audio quality and a modest battery life. On the other side, there are the Sony WF-1000XM4, boasting incredible audio quality, excellent ANC, and a longer battery life. The Sony buds may be larger and more expensive, but they often go on sale. Additionally, they offer a higher water resistance rating than the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro. However, if you’re a Samsung user looking for a sleek and lightweight design, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro might just be the perfect fit for you. With their Samsung Seamless Codec and Bixby access, they offer some unique features. Ultimately, the decision between these two impressive earbuds isn’t easy, but we’re here to help make it a little simpler.

Design and Build

The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and Sony WF-1000XM4 both offer sleek and stylish designs, but there are some noticeable differences. The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro are smaller and lighter compared to the Sony buds, making them a more comfortable option for long-term wear. They are also available in a variety of colors, allowing you to choose a style that matches your personal taste.

On the other hand, the Sony WF-1000XM4 have a slightly bulkier build. While this may be a downside for some, it also means that they pack in more features and technology. The larger size allows for better ANC performance and longer battery life, which we’ll discuss in more detail later.

Ultimately, the design and build of the earbuds come down to personal preference. If you prefer a smaller and more lightweight option, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro may be the way to go. But if you prioritize advanced features and are willing to sacrifice a bit of size and weight, the Sony WF-1000XM4 could be the better choice for you.

Sony WF-1000XM4 Truly Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphone - Optimised for Alexa and Google Assistant - with Built-in mic for Calls - Bluetooth Connection - Black/Copper

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Audio Quality

When it comes to audio quality, both the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and Sony WF-1000XM4 deliver impressive sound experiences. The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro offer a fun and vibrant sound profile, with ample bass that adds depth to your music. The audio quality is clear and detailed, ensuring that you can enjoy your favorite songs with rich and immersive sound.

On the other hand, the Sony WF-1000XM4 take audio quality to the next level. With their fantastic and clear sound, these earbuds provide a truly immersive listening experience. The audio is crisp and well-balanced, allowing you to hear every detail in your music. Whether you’re a fan of rock, hip-hop, or classical, the Sony buds will deliver exceptional sound quality across all genres.

While the audio quality of both earbuds is impressive, the Sony WF-1000XM4 take the crown in this category. If you prioritize top-notch audio performance, the Sony buds are the way to go.

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is an essential feature for many users, as it blocks out external noise and allows you to focus on your music or calls. Both the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and Sony WF-1000XM4 offer ANC, but there are some differences in their performance.

The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro provide good ANC, effectively reducing background noise and providing a more immersive listening experience. While it may not match the industry-leading ANC of the Sony buds, it still does a decent job of reducing distractions and allowing you to enjoy your audio without interruption.

On the other hand, the Sony WF-1000XM4 are known for their excellent ANC performance. They have been praised for their ability to block out a wide range of background noises, from airplane engines to office chatter. If you frequently find yourself in noisy environments and need strong ANC, the Sony buds are the clear winner.

Battery Life

Battery life is an important factor to consider when choosing wireless earbuds, as it determines how long you can use them before needing to recharge. Both the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and Sony WF-1000XM4 offer decent battery life, but there are some differences between the two.

The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro provide a five-hour battery life on a single charge, which is good enough for a few hours of listening or talking. The included charging case provides multiple additional charges, extending the total battery life.

On the other hand, the Sony WF-1000XM4 boast a longer battery life, lasting up to eight hours on a single charge. Additionally, their charging case provides multiple extra charges, bringing the total battery life to a whopping 24 hours.

If you need earbuds that can last throughout the day without needing to recharge, the Sony WF-1000XM4 are the clear winners in terms of battery life.

Water Resistance

Water resistance is an important feature for those who want to use their earbuds during workouts or in rainy conditions. The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and Sony WF-1000XM4 both offer water resistance, but there are some differences in their ratings.

The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro have an IPX7 rating, which means they can withstand being submerged in up to one meter of water for up to 30 minutes. This makes them a great option for those who want to use their earbuds while swimming or in heavy rain.

On the other hand, the Sony WF-1000XM4 have an IPX4 rating, which means they can withstand splashes of water from any direction. While this rating is not as high as the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, it still offers enough protection for use during workouts or in light rain.

If you need earbuds that can handle more extreme water exposure, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro are the better choice. However, if you only need minimal water resistance for everyday activities, the Sony buds are still a reliable option.

Wireless Connectivity

Both the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and Sony WF-1000XM4 offer wireless connectivity, allowing you to seamlessly connect them to your devices without the hassle of wires. However, there are some differences in their wireless capabilities.

The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro use Bluetooth 5.2 technology, which provides a stable and reliable connection to your devices. They also support Samsung’s proprietary codec, Samsung Seamless Codec, which enhances audio quality and reduces latency when used with Samsung devices.

On the other hand, the Sony WF-1000XM4 also use Bluetooth 5.2 technology and support LDAC streaming, which allows for high-quality audio transmission. LDAC streaming is particularly beneficial for audiophiles who want the best possible audio experience.

Both earbuds offer strong and reliable wireless connectivity, but the Sony WF-1000XM4’s support for LDAC streaming makes them the better choice for those who want the highest quality audio transmission.

Smart Assistant Support

Smart assistant support is becoming increasingly important in wireless earbuds, as it allows for hands-free control and access to information. Both the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and Sony WF-1000XM4 offer smart assistant support, but there are some differences in the options available.

The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro offer Bixby support, allowing you to easily control your earbuds and access Bixby’s features. Additionally, they feature a head-tracking feature, which adjusts the audio based on the movement of your head, providing a more immersive listening experience.

On the other hand, the Sony WF-1000XM4 offer hands-free access to Google Assistant and Alexa, giving you the choice between two popular smart assistants. This allows for seamless integration with your preferred virtual assistant and enables hands-free control of your earbuds.

Both earbuds offer convenient smart assistant support, but the Sony WF-1000XM4’s compatibility with Google Assistant and Alexa gives them the edge in terms of versatility and personalization.

Additional Features

In addition to their core features, both the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and Sony WF-1000XM4 offer some additional features that enhance the overall user experience.

The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro come with Samsung-exclusive features, such as automatic connection to Samsung devices and multi-device connection. These features make it easy to switch between devices and ensure a seamless and hassle-free user experience for Samsung users.

On the other hand, the Sony WF-1000XM4 offer LDAC streaming, as mentioned earlier, which provides high-quality audio transmission for a more immersive listening experience. They also come with advanced touch controls, allowing you to easily control your earbuds with a simple tap or swipe.

Both earbuds offer additional features that cater to different user preferences. If you are a Samsung user and value seamless connectivity and multi-device support, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro are a great choice. However, if you prioritize high-quality audio streaming and advanced touch controls, the Sony WF-1000XM4 are the better option.

Price and Availability

Price and availability are important factors to consider when choosing wireless earbuds. The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and Sony WF-1000XM4 are priced differently and have varying levels of availability.

The Sony WF-1000XM4 have a higher price point, with a list price of $280. However, they often go on sale, especially since the release of their successor, the WF-1000XM5. During sales, the Sony buds can be found at discounts, sometimes dropping as low as $178. This makes them a more affordable option for those who can wait for promotions.

On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro have a lower list price of $230. While they do go on sale occasionally, they are not discounted as frequently as the Sony buds. When they do go on sale, they can be found at prices ranging from $170 to $190, offering a more budget-friendly option for Samsung users.

In terms of availability, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro are easily accessible from Samsung and major retailers. However, the Sony WF-1000XM4 may be harder to find, as Sony has replaced them with the newer WF-1000XM5s. Amazon, Walmart, and B&H still stock the Sony buds, but Best Buy has discontinued the item. If you have your heart set on the Sony WF-1000XM4, now would be the time to grab them before they become even scarcer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and Sony WF-1000XM4 are excellent wireless earbuds that offer various features and benefits. The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro have a smaller and more lightweight design, good audio quality, and decent ANC, making them a solid choice for Samsung users who prioritize comfort and convenience.

However, the Sony WF-1000XM4 outshine the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro in terms of audio quality, ANC, battery life, and water resistance. They offer exceptional sound quality, excellent ANC performance, longer battery life, and a higher water resistance rating. Additionally, their compatibility with Google Assistant and Alexa, as well as their support for LDAC streaming, provide a more versatile and personalized experience.

Ultimately, the choice between the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and Sony WF-1000XM4 depends on your preferences and priorities. If you value a smaller and more lightweight design, as well as seamless integration with Samsung devices, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro are a great option. However, if you prioritize top-notch audio quality, advanced ANC, longer battery life, and higher water resistance, the Sony WF-1000XM4 are the superior choice.

Whichever option you choose, both earbuds will provide an enjoyable and immersive listening experience, ensuring that you can enjoy your favorite music and podcasts with ease and style.