When it comes to high-end wireless earbuds, two compelling options are the LG TONE Free T90Q ($229.99) and the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro ($249). Let's dive into what makes each special and help you decide which is right for you.
The wireless earbud market has evolved significantly since the LG T90Q's release in late 2022. Features that were once cutting-edge, like basic noise cancellation and wireless charging, are now standard. Today's premium earbuds compete on advanced capabilities like spatial audio (which makes sound appear to come from all around you), intelligent noise adaptation, and ecosystem integration.
The newly announced Galaxy Buds3 Pro represents Samsung's latest innovation, while LG's slightly older model maintains relevance through its platform-agnostic approach and unique features.
The T90Q takes a more neutral approach to sound, thanks to tuning from high-end audio company Meridian. This means you'll hear music closer to how it was recorded, without artificial bass boost or treble enhancement. In my testing, this works particularly well for classical music and acoustic performances where accuracy matters more than impact.
The Buds3 Pro uses a dual-driver system – think of it like having two speakers in each ear, one for low sounds and one for high sounds. This creates more dynamic and exciting sound, with stronger bass and crisper highs. It's particularly noticeable in modern music genres like hip-hop and electronic music.
The LG T90Q works equally well with any device, whether you're using an iPhone, Android phone, or laptop. It supports multiple high-quality audio codecs (ways of transmitting digital audio), including aptX Adaptive, which can deliver better sound quality than standard Bluetooth when used with compatible devices.
The Samsung Buds3 Pro shines brightest when paired with Samsung devices. You'll get access to their Seamless Codec for 24-bit high-resolution audio, instant device switching, and Galaxy AI features like real-time translation. However, when used with non-Samsung devices, they function more like standard wireless earbuds.
The T90Q includes some clever features I haven't seen elsewhere. The charging case has UV cleaning lights that kill bacteria on the earbuds – particularly useful if you're sharing them or use them during workouts. The case can also act as a Bluetooth transmitter, letting you use the earbuds with older devices or airplane entertainment systems that don't have Bluetooth.
The Buds3 Pro leans into smart features, with intelligent noise cancellation that can automatically adjust based on your environment or switch to transparency mode when it detects you're speaking. The real-time translation feature, while not perfect, can be genuinely helpful for basic conversations in foreign languages.
Both earbuds are comfortable for long-term wear, but they take different approaches to fit and stability. The LG T90Q uses a more traditional design with silicone tips in multiple sizes, while the Samsung Buds3 Pro has a slightly more compact shape that might work better for smaller ears.
For home theater applications, the LG T90Q's wired audio case transmission feature gives it a significant advantage. You can connect the case to your TV's audio output and use the earbuds without any Bluetooth delay – perfect for late-night movie watching without disturbing others.
The Samsung Buds3 Pro works well with Samsung TVs through their ecosystem integration, but lacks the universal wired option that LG provides.
Both models offer similar battery life, around 5-6 hours with noise cancellation enabled and 20+ hours total with the charging case. Both support wireless charging, but the T90Q has slightly faster quick-charging capabilities.
At $229.99, the LG T90Q represents solid value, especially considering its versatility and unique features. The Samsung Buds3 Pro at $249 is slightly more expensive but might be worth it if you're already invested in the Samsung ecosystem.
The choice ultimately comes down to your priorities and existing technology ecosystem:
Choose the LG TONE Free T90Q if you:
Choose the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro if you:
Both represent excellent choices in the premium wireless earbud category, but they serve slightly different users. The T90Q is the more versatile option that works well across all platforms, while the Buds3 Pro offers the most complete feature set for Samsung users.
Remember that wireless earbuds are personal devices, and what works perfectly for one person might not suit another. Consider trying both if possible, as fit and comfort are crucial factors that can't be fully conveyed in reviews.
| LG TONE Free T90Q ($229.99) | Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro ($249) |
|---|---|
| Driver Configuration - Determines sound quality and detail | |
| Single 11mm graphene driver | Dual driver (10.5mm dynamic + 6.1mm planar) |
| Platform Compatibility - Affects available features | |
| Universal, full features on all devices | Best features limited to Samsung devices |
| Audio Codec Support - Higher quality codecs mean better sound | |
| AAC, AptX Adaptive (up to 24-bit/96kHz) | Samsung Seamless Codec, AAC (24-bit/96kHz on Samsung only) |
| Battery Life (ANC On) - Real-world usage time | |
| 5 hours buds + 20 hours case | 5.2 hours buds + 20 hours case |
| Unique Features - Special capabilities that add value | |
| UV cleaning case, wired audio transmission case | Real-time translation, Galaxy AI features |
| Water Resistance - Important for workout use | |
| IPX4 (splash resistant) | IP57 (water/dust resistant) |
| Noise Cancellation - Affects use in loud environments | |
| Standard ANC with manual modes | Adaptive ANC with intelligent switching |
| Multi-device Support - Convenience for multiple devices | |
| True multipoint connection | Samsung-only seamless switching |
| Price-to-Feature Ratio - Overall value proposition | |
| Better value for non-Samsung users | Better value for Samsung ecosystem users |
The LG TONE Free T90Q has an advantage for home theater use thanks to its unique wired audio transmission case. This eliminates Bluetooth lag when watching movies. While the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro works well with Samsung TVs, it lacks this universal wired option.
No, but you'll get the most features with a Samsung device. The Galaxy Buds3 Pro works with any Bluetooth device, but premium features like 24-bit audio and seamless switching require Samsung hardware. The LG T90Q offers full features regardless of phone brand.
Both are nearly identical. The LG T90Q offers 5 hours with ANC on, while the Samsung Buds3 Pro provides 5.2 hours. Both cases add about 20 hours of additional charge time.
Yes, both work well for calls. The Samsung Buds3 Pro has slightly better microphone quality with AI noise reduction, while the LG T90Q offers good clarity but less advanced noise filtering.
The Samsung Buds3 Pro has more advanced adaptive noise cancellation that automatically adjusts to your environment. The LG T90Q offers standard ANC that works well but requires manual adjustment.
The Samsung Buds3 Pro has better water resistance (IP57) making it more suitable for intense workouts. The LG T90Q is splash-resistant (IPX4) but less protected against sweat and water.
The LG T90Q is better for TV viewing thanks to its wired audio transmission case that connects directly to TVs. The Samsung Buds3 Pro requires Bluetooth connection, which may have audio delay.
The Samsung Buds3 Pro uses dual drivers for potentially better sound separation, while the LG T90Q offers more neutral, accurate sound. Both support high-resolution audio codecs.
The LG T90Q offers true multipoint connection for any brand devices. The Samsung Buds3 Pro only offers seamless switching between Samsung devices.
At $229.99, the LG T90Q offers better value for most users, especially if you don't use Samsung devices. The Samsung Buds3 Pro at $249 is worth the premium if you're in the Samsung ecosystem.
Both work with iPhones, but the LG T90Q maintains more features when used with Apple devices. The Samsung Buds3 Pro loses several premium features when not paired with Samsung phones.
The LG T90Q is significantly better for air travel thanks to its wired audio case that can connect to airplane entertainment systems. The Samsung Buds3 Pro can only connect via Bluetooth if the plane system supports it.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: techradar.com - soundstagesolo.com - digitaltrends.com - loudnwireless.com - tomsguide.com - soundguys.com - thetechnologyman.com - youtube.com - musicphotolife.com - aptx.com - head-fi.org - soundguys.com - yankodesign.com - youtube.com - techradar.com - phonearena.com - cdw.com - soundguys.com - youtube.com - samsung.com - cnet.com - samsung.com
