Best Wireless Earbuds 2026: AirPods vs Galaxy Buds – Which One’s Actually Worth It?
If you’re hunting for the best wireless earbuds in 2026, you already know it’s a bit messy out there. Every brand claims “the best sound ever,” but only a few actually live up to the hype. This year, the real battle again comes down to Apple’s AirPods and Samsung’s Galaxy Buds.
The AirPods Pro 4 and Galaxy Buds 3 are leading the TWS (True Wireless Stereo) race, each offering killer features like ANC, spatial audio, and AI-based tuning. But which one actually gives more value for your money?
Let’s break it down simply — no marketing fluff — just real comparisons, pros, cons, and a few honest takes you’d probably think yourself.
What Makes a Great Earbud in 2026?
The market changed a lot since the first AirPods dropped. Now every second brand throws “ANC” and “24-hour battery” at you. But here’s what really matters this year:
1. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
ANC is like your peace-button. Both Apple and Samsung do it well, but it depends on fit. The AirPods 4 now have ANC even with the open-fit design — that’s impressive but still can’t beat the in-ear seal of Galaxy Buds 3, which block noise physically and digitally.
2. Sound Quality & Codec Support
Music should feel alive, not flat. The Galaxy Buds 3 support SSC Hi-Fi and LDAC, giving richer sound on Android phones. AirPods still rely on AAC, which sounds great on iPhones but not so much on Android. So, Apple wins for iOS users, Samsung wins for Android. Simple math.
3. Comfort & Fit
Open-fit buds (like AirPods 4) are more comfy for long use but can slip sometimes. In-ear types (like Buds 3) sit tighter and sound fuller, though some people find them tiring after few hours. Depends on your ears honestly.
4. Battery & Charging
Nobody likes charging every few hours. Both offer around 5 hours with ANC ON and 20–25 hours total with the case. Galaxy edges a bit higher, especially with the Buds 3 FE model.
5. Extra Features
Apple nails the ecosystem stuff — seamless switching, spatial audio, hands-free “Hey Siri.” Samsung counters with AI Live Translate, Find My Buds, and tight Galaxy Wearable app control.
AirPods Pro 4 vs Galaxy Buds 3: Face-to-Face
| Feature | AirPods 4 / Pro 4 | Galaxy Buds 3 / 3 FE |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Open (AirPods 4) / In-ear (Pro) | In-ear with silicone tips |
| ANC | Good (for open fit) | Strong, adaptive |
| Audio | Balanced mids, softer bass | Richer, punchier bass |
| Battery | Around 5 h (ANC ON) | Around 6 h (ANC ON) |
| App / Ecosystem | iOS only, flawless | Works best on Samsung/Android |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IP57 (better protection) |
| Price | Premium (₹24k–₹28k) | Slightly cheaper (₹15k–₹22k) |
Verdict
If you’re using iPhone, just go with AirPods Pro 4 — you’ll love the seamless feel. But if you’re on Android, or just want more ANC for less cash, Galaxy Buds 3 FE is hard to beat.
My quick take:
- AirPods = polish and comfort.
- Galaxy Buds = performance and value.
Pick your poison.
Pros and Cons
AirPods (Pro 4 / 4)
✅ Super easy setup with Apple devices
✅ Clearer voice calls
✅ Lightweight and comfy
❌ Not the best ANC (open fit issue)
❌ Pricey for what you get
Galaxy Buds 3 / 3 FE
✅ Excellent ANC and bass
✅ IP57 rating (can handle sweat, rain)
✅ More budget-friendly
❌ Fit not perfect for everyone
❌ Slightly less refined mic quality than AirPods
Budget TWS Earbuds 2026 – Worth a Look
If ₹25 k feels too much, don’t worry. The TWS scene in 2026 is stacked with budget earbuds that sound surprisingly premium.
Here are few solid ones worth checking:
- Nothing Ear 3 – strong ANC, modern look, ₹9,999.
- OnePlus Buds Pro 3 – balanced audio, fast pairing with Android.
- JBL Live Beam 3 – good mic and punchy bass.
These won’t beat AirPods Pro 4 or Buds 3 Pro, but for half the price, they sound more than decent.
You can explore more affordable options under PreviewKart’s Audio section on PreviewKart.com.
Buying Tips for 2026
- Match your phone – AirPods with iPhone, Buds with Galaxy or Android.
- Don’t skip fit – Try different ear tips before judging sound.
- Check codec support – LDAC for Android, AAC for Apple.
- Test mic quality – Important if you take many calls.
- Avoid fake listings – Always buy from verified stores.
FAQs
Q1: Are AirPods 4 better than Galaxy Buds 3 for calls?
Mostly yes, especially on iPhone. Apple’s voice isolation is cleaner, though Samsung is catching up fast with its AI mic tuning.
Q2: Which earbuds have better ANC overall?
Galaxy Buds 3 Pro models win slightly because of the tighter fit and adaptive ANC tech. AirPods Pro 4 does decent, but not at the same level in super noisy spots.
Q3: Do these earbuds support multipoint connection?
Both support switching between devices, but Apple’s version feels smoother (only inside Apple’s world).
Q4: How long do they last on a full charge?
Around 5 hours on earbuds + 20 hours with case. Galaxy tends to give an extra hour or so.
Q5: Which one’s more future-proof for 2026?
Both. AirPods get years of firmware support, while Samsung adds AI features through updates. So either choice will age well.
