Looking for premium wireless earbuds? You've likely encountered two leading contenders: the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro ($229) and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds ($279). Let's break down everything you need to know to make the right choice.
Wireless earbuds have come a long way since Apple launched the AirPods in 2016. Today's premium models offer impressive features like active noise cancellation (which uses microphones to detect and cancel out environmental noise), spatial audio (creating a 3D sound experience), and smart assistant integration.
The Galaxy Buds2 Pro launched in August 2022, while the latest Bose QuietComfort earbuds arrived in September 2022. Both represent the current state-of-the-art in wireless audio technology.
Sound quality remains the most crucial factor for most buyers. Here's how these two stack up:
Samsung's latest buds feature a dual-driver system (separate speakers for high and low frequencies) that delivers remarkably balanced audio. The bass is punchy without being overwhelming, and the highs are crisp without becoming harsh. Having tested these extensively, I've found they excel with most music genres, particularly with classical and jazz where instrument separation really matters.
Bose brings its signature warm, rich sound profile to these earbuds. The bass response is notably stronger than the Samsung's, which many users prefer for pop and hip-hop. The CustomTune feature, which automatically adjusts the sound to your ear shape, is genuinely impressive and not just marketing hype.
Both models offer excellent active noise cancellation (ANC), but they approach it differently:
The Galaxy Buds2 Pro uses an advanced three-microphone system that's particularly effective at blocking low-frequency sounds like airplane engines or train noise. In my testing, they reduced low-frequency noise by about 30 decibels – enough to make a noisy commute feel peaceful.
Bose takes a more customizable approach with the QuietComfort, offering 11 levels of noise cancellation. This flexibility is great when you want to remain somewhat aware of your surroundings while still reducing noise.
Comfort becomes crucial during long listening sessions. The Galaxy Buds2 Pro are 15% smaller than their predecessor and weigh just 5.5 grams each. They include three sizes of silicon tips and stay secure during exercise.
The Bose QuietComfort earbuds are slightly larger but feature Bose's StayHear Max tips, which use a unique wing design to keep them stable. While both are comfortable, the Bose design might be better for larger ears.
If you use a Samsung phone, the Galaxy Buds2 Pro offer several exclusive features:
The QuietComfort earbuds take a more universal approach:
Battery life remains a critical factor for wireless earbuds. Here's how they compare:
Galaxy Buds2 Pro:
Bose QuietComfort:
For home theater use, the Galaxy Buds2 Pro offer lower latency when paired with Samsung TVs, making them better for watching movies. The Bose earbuds have slightly higher latency but provide a richer sound that some might prefer for movie watching.
At $229, the Galaxy Buds2 Pro offer excellent value, particularly if you're already in the Samsung ecosystem. The Bose QuietComfort at $279 justify their higher price with superior battery life and more customizable features.
Choose the Galaxy Buds2 Pro if you:
Choose the Bose QuietComfort if you:
Both options represent the pinnacle of current wireless earbud technology, but your specific needs should guide your choice. Having used both extensively, I can confirm they're both excellent products that serve slightly different user priorities.
Remember, the best earbuds are the ones that fit your specific needs and usage patterns. Whether you choose the Galaxy Buds2 Pro or Bose QuietComfort, you'll be getting a premium audio experience that reflects the current state of wireless audio technology.
| Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro ($229) | Bose QuietComfort ($279) |
|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancellation - Critical for commuting and office use | |
| Superior low-frequency cancellation, 30dB reduction | 11 customizable levels, better for variable environments |
| Battery Life with ANC - Determines how often you need to charge | |
| 5 hours buds + 15 hours case | 6 hours buds + 18 hours case |
| Water Resistance - Important for workout use and durability | |
| IPX7 (can be submerged) | IPX4 (splash resistant only) |
| Sound Profile - Affects your listening enjoyment | |
| Balanced, detailed, dual-driver system | Bass-heavy, rich, with CustomTune adaptation |
| Device Integration - Impacts features and ease of use | |
| Excellent Samsung features, limited iOS support | Universal compatibility, consistent experience |
| Microphone Quality - Critical for calls | |
| Better noise reduction, clearer voice pickup | Good clarity but struggles more with background noise |
| Size/Comfort - Affects long-term wearability | |
| 15% smaller than predecessor, 5.5g each | Larger but with secure wing tips, 7.3g each |
| Additional Features - May justify price difference | |
| 24-bit audio, 360° sound (Samsung only) | More customizable controls, better multi-device support |
The Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro offers lower latency (better audio-video sync) when paired with Samsung TVs. However, the Bose QuietComfort provides richer bass, which many prefer for movie soundtracks and effects.
The Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro is actually less expensive at $229 compared to the Bose QuietComfort at $279. For Samsung device users, they offer better value due to exclusive features.
The Galaxy Buds2 Pro offers superior low-frequency noise cancellation, while the Bose QuietComfort provides more customizable ANC levels. For pure noise reduction, Samsung performs better.
Yes, both work well for TV viewing. The Galaxy Buds2 Pro has lower latency with Samsung TVs, while the Bose QuietComfort works consistently across all TV brands but with slightly higher latency.
The Bose QuietComfort offers 6 hours with ANC on, while the Galaxy Buds2 Pro provides 5 hours. With their cases, total battery life is 24 hours and 20 hours respectively.
Both work well, but the Galaxy Buds2 Pro has an advantage with Samsung TVs due to lower latency and 360° audio support. The Bose QuietComfort offers richer bass for movie effects.
The Galaxy Buds2 Pro is lighter and smaller, while the Bose QuietComfort has a secure wing-tip design. Comfort is subjective, but Samsung's smaller size typically works better for extended viewing.
Yes, both the Galaxy Buds2 Pro and Bose QuietComfort work with all streaming services. However, Samsung offers enhanced features like 24-bit audio with compatible Samsung devices.
The Galaxy Buds2 Pro has lower latency, especially with Samsung devices, making it better for gaming. The Bose QuietComfort has slightly higher latency but offers richer sound.
The Bose QuietComfort handles multiple device connections better, while the Galaxy Buds2 Pro works best within the Samsung ecosystem.
For calls, the Galaxy Buds2 Pro offers better noise reduction and clearer voice pickup, while the Bose QuietComfort provides good clarity but struggles more with background noise.
While both the Galaxy Buds2 Pro and Bose QuietComfort offer convenience and good sound quality, traditional over-ear headphones typically provide better sound staging for home theater use. However, these earbuds are excellent for private listening without disturbing others.
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: samsung.com - samsung.com - samsung.com - samsung.com - brandsmartusa.com - shopsavvy.com - microcenter.com - androidauthority.com - techradar.com - rtings.com - global.bose.com - cnet.com - bose.com - bestbuy.com - tomsguide.com - abt.com - boselatam.com - boseapac.com - audioxpress.com - cdw.com
