Samsung galaxy buds 4 pro: finally, noise cancellation that delivers
Samsung’s been chasing audio perfection for years, and the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro might just be the closest they’ve come. After a month of rigorous testing – subway commutes, bustling cafes, even a particularly chaotic cross-country flight – I’m ready to declare these earbuds a serious contender in a crowded market. They don't just sound good; they obliterate distractions.
A redesign focused on comfort and premium feel
Let’s be clear: these aren’t just a minor refresh. The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro represent a significant overhaul, impacting everything from the form factor to the intelligent features. Samsung has clearly prioritized comfort, crafting earbuds that sit snugly and evenly distribute pressure, even during extended listening sessions. I’ve worn them for hours without the usual ear fatigue. The exterior design has also been elevated with touches of metal, lending a distinctly premium aesthetic. The case, in particular, is a standout – a compact, transparent design that subtly showcases the earbuds within. It’s a detail that speaks volumes about Samsung’s attention to detail.
The sound and noise cancellation: a dramatic leap forward
The dual-driver setup (woofer and tweeter) is where the magic really happens. The result is a remarkably balanced and clean sound profile. Bass is deep and resonant without overwhelming the mids, and the highs are crisp and detailed, avoiding any harshness. Listening to Rosalía, for example, revealed nuances I’d missed on previous earbuds. But the real star is the active noise cancellation (ANC). It’s genuinely impressive, effectively silencing the drone of traffic, the rumble of the subway, and the incessant chatter of a busy office. This isn’t just about blocking noise; it’s about creating a focused listening experience.
Samsung ecosystem advantage – and limitations
Here's the caveat: to truly unlock the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro's potential, you need a Samsung device. Features like real-time translation via Galaxy AI and the ability to utilize the Samsung Seamless Codec (SSC) – a Bluetooth codec supporting 24-bit/96 kHz audio – are exclusive to Samsung phones. Even with an Android device, you'll get a solid experience, but iOS users are relegated to standard Bluetooth functionality, missing out on a significant portion of the earbuds’ capabilities.
Battery life and ip57 durability
With up to 7 hours of continuous playback (and a total of 30 hours with the charging case), battery life is more than adequate for most users. Wireless charging is a welcome addition, and the fast-charging feature provides a significant boost when you're in a hurry. The IP57 rating ensures resistance to sweat, rain, and even brief submersion, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor activities. They’re not designed for extreme conditions, but they can handle the rigors of daily life.
The verdict: a bold step towards audio excellence
Samsung has consistently refined its earbuds with each generation, but something always felt missing – a true leap in sound, a genuinely differentiating noise cancellation, or a completely seamless user experience. The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro finally deliver on that promise. They represent a deep redesign, impacting the form, the sound, the smart features, and ultimately, the ambition of the product.
At €249, they're an investment, but for those seeking a premium audio experience with exceptional noise cancellation and unparalleled comfort, the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro are worth every penny.