SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 3 Review: The Open-Type Revolution in Premium Wireless Audio.
The wireless earbud market has never been more competitive, yet the SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 3 arrives not just to compete, but to redefine the category. Leaving behind the familiar sealed-tip design of their predecessors, Samsung has boldly opted for an innovative ‘open-type’ fit, aiming to merge the pristine audio quality users expect with a greater sense of environmental awareness. This shift represents a significant engineering undertaking, promising a new equilibrium between immersive sound and real-world connection—a vital consideration for the broader American audience, from busy commuters to remote working professionals. This comprehensive review explores whether the SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 3 can live up to the hype and secure a spot as a top contender in the premium earbud catalogue.
A Bold New Design Philosophy
The most striking element of the new Galaxy Buds 3 is its design overhaul. Embracing an ‘open-type’ fit, these earbuds eschew the traditional silicone ear-tip seal, allowing ambient sound to enter naturally. For the American consumer, this translates to heightened safety whilst jogging or walking through city streets, and a less intrusive feel for prolonged listening sessions. The ergonomic, sleek silhouette is both modern and practical, meticulously crafted to sit comfortably in the ear without causing the pressure build-up often associated with sealed in-ear monitors. This design choice is a calculated risk, but one that prioritises comfort and situational awareness—a valuable dual function for the daily grind.
Audio Excellence Meets HiFi Codecs
Audio performance is where the Buds 3 truly exhibit their technological prowess. Equipped with a Dynamic Driver and leveraging Bluetooth 5.4, the earbuds support Samsung’s proprietary SSC HiFi and UHQ audio codecs. This technological suite enables high-resolution 24bit/96KHz audio transmission, delivering a depth and clarity that audiophiles will appreciate. The audio signature is rich and detailed, managing a commendable balance across the frequency spectrum, from deep, resonant bass (20 Hz) to crisp, clear treble (20,000 Hz). The move to an open design presents unique acoustic challenges, yet Samsung’s acoustic optimisation ensures the sound remains robust and immersive, maintaining a superior listening experience with a sensitivity of 102 dB and a solid 32 Ohm Impedance.
Active Noise Cancellation and Galaxy AI Integration- SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 3
The integration of advanced features on the Galaxy Buds 3 is genuinely exciting. Typically, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) relies heavily on a perfect seal, which the new open-type design intentionally bypasses.
However, Samsung has engineered sophisticated ANC algorithms specifically tailored to this new form factor. The ANC works to effectively reduce constant, low-frequency background noise, allowing for focused listening without completely isolating the user. This approach ensures safety and connectivity remain key features for those needing to hear important announcements or traffic.
The introduction of Galaxy AI is the true centrepiece, transforming these earbuds into an intelligent communication tool. When paired with a compatible Samsung Galaxy device, the Galaxy Buds 3 unlock two potentially game-changing features: Live Translate and Real-Time Interpreter.
Imagine conversing face-to-face with someone speaking a foreign language, and hearing the translation delivered instantly into your ear—a truly marvellous application of artificial intelligence. Furthermore, call quality is dramatically enhanced by Super Wideband (SWB) microphones and AI voice optimisation, capturing a wider voice bandwidth to ensure crystal-clear communication even in challenging acoustic conditions.
SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 3- Enduring Power for the Modern Lifestyle
The longevity of the Buds 3 is competitive for the premium tier. Users can expect approximately 6 to 8 hours of continuous playback, depending on whether the ANC feature is engaged. The accompanying charging case extends the total listening time to up to 12 hours. The case itself supports both wireless and wired charging, achieving a full charge in a swift 1.5 hours—perfect for quick power-ups before a commute or flight.
Technical Specifications: SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 3
| Feature | Specification |
| Form Factor | In-Ear (New Open-Type Design) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.4, Wireless |
| Audio Codecs | SSC HiFi, UHQ (24bit/96KHz) |
| Driver Type | Dynamic Driver |
| Frequency Range | 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz |
| Impedance | 32 Ohm |
| Sensitivity | 102 dB |
| Noise Control | Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) |
| Microphones | Super Wideband (SWB) Mics, 3 Microphones |
| AI Features* | Real-Time Language Translation, Voice Optimisation |
| Battery Life (Earbuds) | 6-8 Hours (ANC On/Off) |
| Battery Life (Total w/ Case) | Up to 12 Hours |
| Charging Time | 1.5 Hours |
| Control Method | App, Touch, Voice |
| Water Resistance | Water Resistant |
| Included Components | Charging case, Multiple ear tips, USB Type-C cable |
| *Note: Galaxy AI Features require a compatible Samsung Galaxy device. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)- SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 3
Q: Are the SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 3 compatible with Apple iOS devices?
A: Yes, the SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 3 will connect to iOS devices via standard Bluetooth. However, advanced features, such as the SSC HiFi/UHQ audio codecs and all Galaxy AI functions (Live Translate, Real-Time Interpreter), are Only supported when paired with compatible Samsung Galaxy mobile phones running Android 8.0 or later with at least 1.5GB RAM.
Q: Is the new open-type design comfortable for long periods?
A: Absolutely. The innovative open-type design is one of the key selling points, specifically engineered to provide a comfortable, non-occlusive fit, which significantly reduces the fatigue and pressure often experienced with sealed in-ear earbuds after long listening sessions.
Q: How effective is the ANC given the open design of the Buds 3?
A: The ANC on the Galaxy Buds 3 is tailored to the open form factor. It is highly effective at reducing constant, low-frequency background noise (like aeroplane engines), but because it does not create a full physical seal, it maintains some level of essential situational awareness, which is a deliberate design choice rather than a limitation.
SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 3 Conclusion: A Forward-Looking Contender
The SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 3 represents a courageous step forward in the wireless audio arena. By adopting the open-type design, Samsung has prioritised long-term comfort and situational awareness, making them an excellent choice for a broad American audience that balances work, commute, and leisure. Whilst this unique form factor presents a challenge to traditional ANC expectations, the integration of cutting-edge audio codecs (SSC HiFi/UHQ) and the transformative potential of Galaxy AI firmly plant these earbuds in the premium segment.
For users already within the Samsung Galaxy ecosystem, the advanced AI features make the Buds 3 a truly indispensable accessory. They successfully blend high-fidelity sound with smart, connected living, setting a new standard for what a pair of wireless earbuds can fulfil.
