Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Review: Samsung Made It Perfect This Time

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Review: Samsung Made It Perfect This Time

The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro represent Samsung's most refined wireless earbuds to date. Released in August 2022, they continue to generate buzz thanks to excellent active noise cancellation, impressive sound quality, and a reliable microphone. Compared to the original Buds Pro and the Buds 2, the Buds 2 Pro offer a better fit, superior ANC, and a more compact design. This review explores whether these earbuds truly deliver the exceptional audio experience Samsung promises.

After extensive use across commuting, workouts, and long listening sessions, the Buds 2 Pro prove to be a top-tier choice for audio enthusiasts, especially those already in the Samsung ecosystem. A few limitations, such as battery life and the lack of a custom equalizer, hold them back from perfection.

Key Features at a Glance

The headline features include an ergonomic design for a comfortable fit, end-to-end 24-bit Hi-Fi audio, up to 29 hours of total playtime, 360-degree spatial audio with Dolby Atmos support, intelligent ANC, and IPX7 water resistance. The earbuds use a two-way speaker system with a 10mm woofer and a 5.3mm tweeter, tuned by AKG.

Design and Build Quality

Compact and Comfortable

The Buds 2 Pro are smaller than both the original Buds Pro and the Buds 2, making them easier to wear for extended periods. Each earbud weighs just 5.5 grams, and the polished glossy finish on the exterior contrasts with a soft matte interior that feels gentle against the skin. Extra ear tips are included, allowing most users to find a secure, comfortable fit. The compact case weighs 43.4 grams and is easily pocketable.

Materials and Water Resistance

The earbuds are made from sturdy recycled plastic, combining durability with sustainability. The case has a matte finish that resists fingerprints and smudges. IPX7 water resistance means the earbuds can survive submersion in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes, making them suitable for workouts and rainy conditions. Three color options are available: Graphite, Bora Purple, and White. The Bora Purple variant matches the Galaxy Z Flip 4, creating a coordinated look.

Control and Customization

Touch Controls

The Buds 2 Pro support intuitive touch controls. A single tap plays or pauses a track, a double tap skips to the next track, and a triple tap returns to the previous track. Touching and holding activates noise control for either earbud. For calls, a double tap answers or ends a call, while touching and holding declines an incoming call.

Galaxy Wearable App

Samsung device owners can control media directly from the Bluetooth menu, toggling ANC, adjusting ambient sound levels, switching between devices, and checking battery levels. Non-Samsung users can download the Galaxy Wearable app to access deeper customization, including voice detection, 360 audio settings, touch control toggles, and earbud settings. The app is well-designed and makes the earbuds feel personalized.

Sound Quality and Performance

AKG-Tuned Audio

Sound quality is where the Buds 2 Pro truly shine. The two-way speaker system, with a 10mm woofer and a 5.3mm tweeter in each earbud, delivers rich, detailed audio across the frequency spectrum. Bass is punchy without overwhelming, mids are clear, and highs are crisp. Rock music with powerful instrumentals sounds immersive, while vocals in pop tracks and podcasts come through with clarity. Dolby Atmos support enhances the cinematic feel, and 360 Audio creates a spatial soundstage that adapts to head movement when paired with compatible Samsung devices.

Active Noise Cancellation

The intelligent ANC is among the best in the segment, effectively blocking out low-frequency noise like engine rumble and office chatter. The fit and seal of the earbuds contribute significantly to passive isolation. Ambient Sound mode lets in external audio when needed, and voice detection can automatically lower volume and enable ambient sound when you speak.

Microphone Quality

Call quality is reliable, with clear voice transmission even in noisy environments. The microphone system handles wind and background noise reasonably well, making the Buds 2 Pro suitable for calls and video meetings.

Connection and Compatibility

The earbuds pair quickly with Samsung devices and support seamless switching between Galaxy products. Bluetooth multipoint is not fully supported in the traditional sense, but Samsung's ecosystem switching works smoothly. Non-Samsung Android users get most features through the Galaxy Wearable app, while iOS users have more limited functionality. Codec support includes Samsung's proprietary SSC Hi-Fi codec for 24-bit audio on compatible devices, along with standard SBC and AAC.

Battery Life

Battery life is the Buds 2 Pro's main weakness. With ANC enabled, the earbuds last around 5 hours per charge, with the case providing up to 29 hours total. This is adequate for most users but falls short of competitors offering 8 to 10 hours per charge. Disabling ANC extends earbud life to about 8 hours. Charging is via USB-C, and the case supports wireless charging, which is a convenient touch.

Specifications

• Driver: 2-way (10mm woofer + 5.3mm tweeter), AKG-tuned
• Audio: 24-bit Hi-Fi, Dolby Atmos, 360 Audio
• ANC: Intelligent Active Noise Cancellation
• Water Resistance: IPX7
• Battery: Up to 5 hours (ANC on) / 8 hours (ANC off) per charge; up to 29 hours total with case
• Weight: 5.5g per earbud; 43.4g case
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, Samsung SSC Hi-Fi, SBC, AAC
• Colors: Graphite, Bora Purple, White

Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro are an exceptional pair of wireless earbuds that excel in sound quality, noise cancellation, comfort, and build. The AKG-tuned drivers deliver a rich, immersive listening experience, and the IPX7 rating adds durability. Battery life and the absence of a custom EQ are drawbacks, but for Samsung ecosystem users and audio enthusiasts alike, the Buds 2 Pro are among the best earbuds available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro worth buying?

Yes, especially for Samsung users. They offer excellent sound quality, strong ANC, a comfortable fit, and IPX7 water resistance. The main compromises are battery life and the lack of a custom equalizer.

Do the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro work with iPhone?

They can connect to an iPhone via Bluetooth for basic audio playback, but advanced features like the Galaxy Wearable app, 360 Audio, and custom controls are not available on iOS. For iPhone users, alternatives like AirPods Pro may be a better fit.

How good is the noise cancellation?

The intelligent ANC is excellent, effectively blocking low-frequency sounds like engine noise and office chatter. Combined with the snug fit, the Buds 2 Pro provide strong passive and active isolation.

Can you use the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro for workouts?

Yes. The IPX7 water resistance makes them suitable for sweaty workouts and light rain. The secure fit and lightweight design also help them stay in place during exercise.

How long does the battery last?

With ANC enabled, expect around 5 hours per charge, with up to 29 hours total using the charging case. Disabling ANC extends earbud life to about 8 hours. The case supports both USB-C and wireless charging.