Choosing Between Today's Top Wireless Earbuds: A Detailed Comparison

Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro vs LG TONE Free T90Q

The wireless earbud market has evolved dramatically since Apple's AirPods revolutionized the category in 2016. Today, we're looking at two compelling options released in late 2022: the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro ($229.99) and LG TONE Free T90Q ($229.99). Both represent the current state of the art in wireless audio, but they take different approaches to earning your money.

Understanding Today's Wireless Earbud Market

Modern wireless earbuds have moved far beyond simple music playback. They're now sophisticated mini-computers that handle everything from noise cancellation to spatial audio processing. The key technologies that matter include:

• Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Uses microphones to detect and cancel out ambient noise
• Bluetooth Codecs: Special ways of compressing and transmitting audio (think MP3 vs FLAC, but for wireless)
• Spatial Audio: Creates a virtual surround sound experience in your ears
• Multipoint Connection: Allows connecting to multiple devices simultaneously

Both our contenders today implement these features, but in notably different ways.

Core Performance: The Basics That Matter

Sound Quality

The Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro delivers a more natural, balanced sound signature. Samsung uses a two-way speaker design (like having a woofer and tweeter in a regular speaker) that provides clear separation between bass and treble. In testing, this results in music that sounds more like what the artist intended.

The LG TONE Free T90Q takes a different approach, using digital signal processing to enhance the sound. While this can make some music more exciting, audiophiles might find it less natural. However, LG's implementation of Dolby Atmos head tracking is impressive, especially when watching movies.

Noise Cancellation

Here's where Samsung pulls ahead significantly. The Galaxy Buds2 Pro's noise cancellation is noticeably more effective at blocking out both constant noise (like airplane engines) and irregular sounds (like office chatter). LG's implementation is good but not great - it'll help on your commute but won't match Samsung's performance.

Battery Life and Charging

Both earbuds offer similar battery life:

• Samsung: 5 hours with ANC on, 8 hours without
• LG: 5 hours with ANC on, 9 hours without

The charging cases extend this to around 20 total hours for both models. Both support wireless charging, but Samsung's implementation charges slightly faster.

Special Features and Unique Capabilities

Samsung's Standout Features

The Galaxy Buds2 Pro excels in several areas:

• IPX7 water resistance (can survive submersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
• Seamless integration with Samsung devices
• 24-bit audio support with compatible Samsung phones
• Voice detect feature that automatically enables transparency mode when you speak

LG's Unique Offerings

The TONE Free T90Q brings some innovative features:

• UV sterilization built into the charging case
• Analog audio input in the charging case (great for using with airplane entertainment systems)
• Dolby Atmos head tracking that works with any content
• Multi-point connection for easy device switching

Real-World Performance

For Music Listening

Both earbuds handle music well, but they shine with different genres. The Galaxy Buds2 Pro excels with acoustic and classical music, where its natural sound signature really shows. The LG T90Q, with its more processed sound, makes electronic and pop music more engaging.

For Movie Watching

LG takes the lead here. The T90Q's Dolby Atmos head tracking creates a more immersive experience when watching movies. The analog input feature also means you can use these with any TV or entertainment system, even older ones.

For Phone Calls

Both perform well for calls, but Samsung's implementation handles wind noise better. The Galaxy Buds2 Pro uses an advanced three-microphone system with machine learning to separate your voice from background noise.

For Exercise

Samsung's IPX7 rating makes it the clear choice for exercise. You can literally rinse them under the tap after a workout. The LG's IPX4 rating means they'll handle sweat, but you need to be more careful.

Value Consideration

While both launched at $229.99, the LG T90Q frequently sells for around $179.99. This price difference makes LG's feature set more appealing, especially considering extras like the UV cleaning and analog input.

Technology Improvements Since Launch

Both products have received firmware updates since their late 2022 release:

• Samsung has improved ANC performance and added new gesture controls
• LG has enhanced head tracking accuracy and expanded equalizer options

Home Theater Use

For home theater use, the LG T90Q has a significant advantage thanks to its charging case's analog input capability. This means you can connect it to any TV or receiver with a headphone jack and use the case as a Bluetooth transmitter. It's a clever solution for late-night movie watching without disturbing others.

How to Decide

Choose the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro if:

• Sound quality accuracy is your top priority
• You use Samsung devices
• You need the best noise cancellation
• You'll use them for exercise or in wet conditions

Choose the LG TONE Free T90Q if:

• You want more features for the money
• You'll use them with multiple devices
• Movie watching is a priority
• You need the analog input option
• You value the UV cleaning feature

Final Thoughts

Both products represent excellent choices in today's wireless earbud market, but they serve different needs. The Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro is the better pure performer, while the LG TONE Free T90Q offers more features and flexibility, often at a lower price.

For most users, I'd recommend the LG T90Q unless you specifically need Samsung's superior noise cancellation or water resistance. The feature set and typical street price make it an excellent value, and its versatility with the analog input is genuinely useful.

However, if you're already in the Samsung ecosystem and prioritize pure audio performance over extra features, the Galaxy Buds2 Pro remains an excellent choice that won't disappoint.

Remember: The best earbuds are the ones that fit your specific needs and use cases. Consider how you'll actually use them day-to-day when making your decision.

Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro Earbuds Deals and Prices

LG TONE Free T90Q Wireless Earbuds Deals and Prices