The newly announced Galaxy Buds 3 FE are priced at $150, making them $100 cheaper than the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, despite their similar appearance. The key differences lie in their audio capabilities and features. The Buds 3 FE are equipped with a single 11mm driver per earbud, while the Buds 3 Pro boast a dual-driver system with a 10.5mm dynamic driver and a 6.5mm planar magnetic driver, promising superior audio quality, especially at higher frequencies.
Both models offer Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, active noise cancellation (ANC), and ambient modes. However, the Pro version features more advanced ANC that adapts to environmental sounds. Audio codec support also varies, with the Buds 3 Pro including the Samsung Seamless Codec Ultra High Quality (SSC UHQ) for 24-bit/96kHz audio, absent in the FE model.
While both earbuds support the Galaxy Wearable app’s audio equalizer, only the Buds 3 Pro includes an Adaptive Equalizer that adjusts sound based on earbud fit. Both provide 360 Audio for spatial sound with compatible devices. Gesture controls and Galaxy AI features are present in both, but the Buds 3 Pro have additional awareness features like Alarm Detect.
Design-wise, both models feature a stem-like design and a charging case with USB Type-C, but only the Pro’s case supports Qi wireless charging. The Buds 3 FE lack Blade Lights for battery indication. Samsung has yet to confirm Bluetooth Auracast and LE Audio support for the FE model.
