Samsung Galaxy Buds FE vs Galaxy Buds 2 Pro – Which Earbuds Are Better?

The Samsung Galaxy Buds FE and Galaxy Buds 2 Pro are remarkable additions to Samsung’s extensive lineup of wireless earbuds. These two models come with unique and latest features which can attract users. So, in this article, we compare Samsung Galaxy Buds FE vs Galaxy Buds 2 Pro to understand features and other aspects like design, fit, sound, and battery life. This comparison will help us to understand which earbuds are better and why they are better.

Samsung Galaxy Buds FESamsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro
Samsung Galaxy Buds FESamsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro
PROSPROS
Affordable price
Comfortable and secure fit
Active Noise Cancellation
Long battery life
Balanced audio quality
360 audio and 24Bit lossless audio
Premium build quality
Well-balanced sound with strong bass
Effective Active Noise Cancellation
Bluetooth 5.3 and LE support
360 audio and 24Bit lossless audio
Clever touch controls, including volume adjustment
CONSCONS
IPX2 water resistance rating
No wireless charging
Higher price point
Slightly lower battery life compared to some competitors
Initial confusion with naming
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Samsung Galaxy Buds FE

The Samsung Galaxy Buds FE, short for “Fan Edition,” is a set of affordable earbuds with an attractive design that draws inspiration from the Galaxy Buds Plus. These earbuds have been designed to provide comfort and security, making them an excellent choice for active users. Incorporating wingtips and adjustable ear tips ensures the earbuds fit securely in your ears, even during intense physical activities. This ergonomic design makes them a preferred choice for all types of users. The Galaxy Buds FE has several features, including Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and a transparency mode. They also offer a good battery life, up to 30 hours when using the case. The sound quality is impressive, with balanced audio, strong bass, and clear mids. These earbuds support 360 and 24-bit lossless audio, enhancing the overall experience. Additionally, they offer water resistance with an IPX2 rating, which makes them suitable for workouts and light rain. The lack of wireless charging and a slightly lower IP rating can be considered compromises, but given their price point, they offer great value for the features they provide.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro

The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, while initially causing some confusion with its name, has proven to be a valuable addition to Samsung’s lineup. These earbuds offer excellent build quality, ensuring they can withstand everyday use. They are a slightly more premium offering with a well-balanced sound profile, 24-bit lossless audio, and impressive bass. The addition of 360 audio further enhances the listening experience. The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro has improved its ANC performance, delivering an efficient noise-cancelling experience. The battery life is decent, offering up to 5 hours on a single charge and 18-20 hours with the case. They also feature some clever touch controls, including the innovative “Double tap earbud edge” feature for volume control. The earbuds support Bluetooth 5.3 and LE, reducing power consumption. They are water-resistant and come with features like voice detectors and voice assistants. While not free from compromises, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro presents a strong package, making them an attractive choice for quality audio and a premium feel.

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE and Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Common Features

Both the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and Galaxy Buds FE come with a wide range of features, including:

  • Seamless Device Switching: Both earbuds allow easy switching between Samsung devices, such as smartphones and tablets.
  • Voice Detect: These earbuds can automatically lower music volume and enable ambient sound when you start speaking. This is a convenient feature for quick conversations without removing the earbuds.
  • Customizable Controls: You can customize touch controls to your liking, including double-tap, triple-tap, and tap-and-hold functions. This customization offers flexibility in how you interact with the earbuds.
  • Ambient Sound: Both models offer ambient sound modes, allowing you to hear your surroundings without removing the earbuds.
  • Voice Assistant Integration: Both earbuds support voice assistants, including Samsung’s Bixby, for hands-free control.
  • Equalizer Settings: You can adjust the sound profile using built-in equalizer settings, ensuring your preferred audio experience.
  • In-Ear Detection: The earbuds can pause playback when you remove them from your ears and resume when you put them back in, enhancing user convenience.

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE vs Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Specs

FeaturesSamsung Galaxy Buds FESamsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro
Active Noise CancellingYesYes
Connection TypeWirelessWireless
Wireless ConnectivityBluetoothBluetooth
True WirelessYesYes
Water ResistantYesYes
Built-In MicrophoneYesYes
Carrying CaseYesYes
Microphone FeaturesNoise cancellingNoise cancelling, Voice Activated
Headphone FitIn-EarIn-Ear
Battery Life30 hours8 hours
Works WithBixby, Google Assistant, SmartThingsBixby, Google Assistant, SmartThings
Voice Assistant Built-inBixby, Google AssistantBixby, Google Assistant
Ear Tip Sizes IncludedLarge, Medium, SmallSmall, Large
Bluetooth Version5.25.3
Sound IsolatingNoYes
Environmental Noise ControlYesYes
Maximum Talk Time4 hours3.5 hours
Battery Capacity505 milliampere hours61 milliampere hours
Charging Accessory IncludedCable, CaseCable, Case
Battery Life Provided by Charging Case30 hours30 hours
Fast ChargingTrueYes
Charging InterfaceUSB Type CWireless
On/Off SwitchAutomaticAutomatic
Product Height1.06 inches0.8 inches
Product Width1.96 inches0.7 inches
Product Depth1.97 inches0.7 inches
Manufacturer’s Warranty – Parts/Labor1 Year1 Year

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE vs Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: Design and Build

Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Design and Build

Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: These earbuds feature a sleek, minimalist design with a matte finish. They come in three color options: purple, black, and white. The matte finish provides an aesthetic appeal, offers better grip, and minimizes fingerprints. The case is compact and lightweight, making it highly portable. The earbuds are 15% smaller than the Galaxy Buds Pro, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit in the ear.

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE Design and Build

Galaxy Buds FE: The Galaxy Buds FE has a similar case design to the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, featuring a glossy, compact case with a USB Type-C port for charging. They are available in black and white, and while the case is glossy, it’s not as prone to fingerprints as earlier models.

Both earbuds have attractive designs, but the matte finish on the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro offers a more premium look and feel. However, the Galaxy Buds FE's glossy case is completely independent of their overall appeal.

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE vs Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: Fit and Comfort

Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Fit and Comfort

Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: These earbuds feature an in-ear design with a wingtip that provides a secure and comfortable fit. The lightweight design ensures they remain in place during rigorous activities like running and workouts.

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE Fit and Comfort

Galaxy Buds FE: The Galaxy Buds FE also has wingtips and a secure fit. The absence of wingtips was a drawback of previous Samsung earbuds, and including wingtips in both models significantly improved comfort and stability.

Both earbuds provide a comfortable and secure fit, making them suitable for active users. Adding wingtips to both models is a welcome feature, ensuring a snug fit during workouts.

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE vs Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: Sound Quality

Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Sound Quality

Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: These earbuds provide excellent sound quality with a balanced audio profile. They offer warm and powerful bass, detailed highs, and clear mids. Instrument separation and low-level detail are impressive. The overall sound experience is highly satisfying. They offer Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which helps isolate external noise for an immersive listening experience.

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE Sound Quality

Galaxy Buds FE: The Galaxy Buds FE also delivers good sound quality with a balanced sound signature. The bass is warm and punchy, the mids are clear, and the highs are detailed. While they may not reach the same level of audio quality as the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, they are still impressive for their price range.

The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro offers a more premium sound experience, enhanced bass, and precise soundstage. However, the Galaxy Buds FE hold their own and provide good sound quality for their price.

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE vs Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: These earbuds feature “Intelligent ANC, ” effectively reducing external noise. They offer a clean listening experience with minimal white noise or hissing. The ANC is strong, particularly in blocking low-frequency sounds, providing an ideal environment for focused listening.

Galaxy Buds FE: The Galaxy Buds FE also has active noise cancellation, offering a clean sound experience. While they may not match the strength of the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro’s ANC, they still perform well in reducing external noise, making them suitable for everyday use.

Both earbuds provide quality ANC performance, with the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro having a slight edge in noise cancellation strength.

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE vs Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: Battery Life

Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Battery Life

Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: These earbuds offer a maximum battery life of up to 29 hours when using the case. The earbuds alone provide up to 5 hours of playback time. However, when ANC is activated, the playback time is reduced.

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE Battery Life

Galaxy Buds FE: The Galaxy Buds FE offers an impressive battery life of up to 30 hours when using the case, making them one of the longest-lasting earbuds in the market. The earbuds alone provide up to 8.5 hours of playback time. Like the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, enabling ANC may reduce the battery life.

The Galaxy Buds FE has a slight edge in terms of battery life, offering a longer playback time both with and without the case.

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE vs Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: Water Resistance

Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: These earbuds are IPX7-rated, making them highly water-resistant. They can withstand submersion in water, which is ideal for intense workouts and outdoor activities.

Galaxy Buds FE: The Galaxy Buds FE has an IPX2 rating, providing splash resistance but not full submersion protection. While they are suitable for workouts and light rain, they are not designed for heavy water exposure.

The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro has superior water resistance, making them more suitable for rigorous outdoor use.

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE vs Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: Wireless Charging

Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Wireless Charging

Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro does not support wireless charging, which is a compromise to keep the price competitive.

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE Wireless Charging

Galaxy Buds FE: The Galaxy Buds FE also does not support wireless charging, as this feature is typically reserved for higher-end models in Samsung’s lineup.

Neither earbud model offers wireless charging, so this aspect is equal.

Price

Pricing may vary based on location and promotions, but the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro is generally positioned as a slightly more premium offering than the Galaxy Buds FE.

Galaxy Buds 2 Pro: These earbuds are typically priced at $190, reflecting their more advanced features and design.

Galaxy Buds FE: The Galaxy Buds FE are positioned as a more budget-friendly option, offering good value for their price of $99.

Should you buy Samsung Galaxy Buds FE?

Reasons to Consider Buying

  • Modern Design: The Samsung Galaxy Buds FE feature a compact and stylish design with a glossy finish, providing a visually appealing and easy-to-carry option.
  • User-Friendly Controls: Both earbuds offer customizable controls, making it convenient to navigate and operate various functions, even when using a single earbud.
  • Enhanced Sound Quality: They comes with impressive sound quality, including immersive experiences with features like active noise cancellation and ambient sound mode.
  • Extended Battery Life: The Galaxy Buds FE boast a significant battery life, lasting up to two weeks on a single charge, providing extended usage without frequent recharging.
  • USB-C Charging: The use of USB-C for charging adds a modern and efficient charging option.

Considerations Before Buying

  • Case Color Preference: You may have a preference for a case color that matches the earbuds, and the white case paired with black earbuds might be a subjective factor to consider.
  • Orientation Challenges: You may find it necessary to pay attention to the correct orientation of the earbuds to ensure optimal functionality, especially concerning microphone holes.
  • Fit Variability: Preferences for wing tips may vary and it’s advisable to experiment with different sizes and configurations to find the most comfortable fit.
  • Price Awareness: While the earbuds are deemed valuable at $100, but you might want to explore current sales or discounts for potential cost savings.

Should you buy Galaxy Buds 2 Pro?

Reasons to Consider Buying

  • Compact Design: The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro offer a smaller and sleeker design compared to their Galaxy Buds 2 counterparts, providing a more portable and comfortable option.
  • Long Battery Life: With ANC turned off, the buds demonstrate impressive battery life, lasting around 8 hours of straight media playback, making them suitable for extended use.
  • Quality Audio: The audio quality is good and you will get an enjoyable listening experience.
  • Convenient Wireless Charging: The inclusion of a wireless charging option on the case adds convenience for users who prefer this charging method.

Considerations Before Buying

  • Fit Challenges: You may find that the buds tend to fall out of the ear relatively easily, even with different sizes of ear tips. The absence of wing tips, as present in the Galaxy Buds Plus, is noted as a factor contributing to this issue.
  • Finding Buds in Case: The case always shows 1% battery, and there’s no straightforward way to find the earbuds while they are closed in the case.
  • Limited Individual Bud Information: The Galaxy Wear app does not provide an option to check individual bud percentages; you need to go into settings for this information.
  • Price Comparison: Considering potential alternatives and upcoming releases, you may explore other options, especially if pricing is a significant consideration.

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE and Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Alternatives

Apple AirPods (3rd Gen)

  • Active Noise Cancellation
  • Spatial audio
  • Up to 6 hours of listening time
  • Designed for Apple devices
  • Fast pairing and seamless integration

Sony WF-1000XM4

  • Industry-leading noise cancellation
  • LDAC for high-res audio
  • Up to 8 hours of playback
  • Speak-to-chat feature
  • Excellent sound quality

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds

  • World-class noise cancellation
  • Detailed and balanced sound
  • Up to 6 hours of playtime
  • StayHear Max tips for comfort
  • IPX4 water resistance

Jabra Elite 85t

  • Advanced ANC with adjustable settings
  • 25 hours of battery life with the case
  • Customizable sound profiles
  • Durability with IPX4 rating
  • Comfortable fit and secure seal.

James Smith has always been intrigued by electronic products since his childhood. After his post graduation in electronics from a popular university, he decided to pursue a career in the electronics sector. But his calling for writing about these marvellous pieces of work got the better of him. That is how UBG was started. With a writing career spanning more than 12 years, James has worked on several hundred product reviews. During his free time, he like to spend time with his pet dog and relax in the swimming pool.