Choosing between the Apple AirPods Pro 3 and the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 FE in 2025 is not just about sound quality anymore.
Both earbuds bring advanced AI features, strong noise cancellation, and smart integrations that directly impact productivity, daily comfort, and even sports performance.
This comparison breaks down all technical specifications, real-world use cases, strengths, limitations, and helps you understand which one fits your lifestyle better, without forcing a choice.
Overview: AirPods Pro 3 vs Galaxy Buds3 FE
Both models are positioned as premium true wireless earbuds, but they follow different philosophies.
Apple focuses on deep ecosystem integration, adaptive intelligence, and seamless daily use.
Samsung emphasizes AI-powered features, real-time translation, and versatility across Android workflows.
Before diving deeper, here is a clear technical overview.
Technical Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Apple AirPods Pro 3 (2025) | Samsung Galaxy Buds3 FE |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Noise Cancellation | Adaptive ANC | Active Noise Cancellation |
| Transparency Mode | Adaptive Transparency | Ambient Mode |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX4 |
| Battery (with case) | Up to 30 hours | Up to 24 hours |
| Wireless Charging | Yes (MagSafe) | Yes |
| Voice Assistant | Siri | Bixby / Google Assistant |
| AI Features | Adaptive Audio, Voice Isolation | AI Translation, AI Audio |
| Ecosystem | Apple | Samsung / Android |
- For iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac
- Dolby Atmos Support for Immersive Audio
- IPX4 Sweat & Water Resistance
Design and Comfort Comparison
Both earbuds are designed for long wear, but the experience feels slightly different.
AirPods Pro 3 focus on minimal pressure and natural ear positioning. They feel light and almost disappear during long work sessions or calls.
Galaxy Buds3 FE offer a more secure in-ear fit. This is noticeable during movement and workouts, where stability matters more than barely noticing them.
Comfort Summary
- AirPods Pro 3 feel softer and lighter for extended wear
- Buds3 FE feel more secure during physical activity
- Both include multiple ear tip sizes
Sound Quality and Noise Cancellation
Sound quality is excellent on both, but tuned differently.
AirPods Pro 3 prioritize balanced sound with strong vocal clarity. Adaptive EQ adjusts audio in real time based on ear shape and surroundings.
Galaxy Buds3 FE deliver slightly punchier bass and dynamic tuning. AI audio adapts sound depending on movement and environment.
Noise Cancellation
- AirPods Pro 3 offer more adaptive noise cancellation
- Galaxy Buds3 FE perform very well in offices, cafes, and commuting
- Both allow instant switching to transparency or ambient modes
AI Features and Smart Capabilities
This is where the biggest differences appear.
Apple AirPods Pro 3 AI
- Adaptive Audio blends ANC and transparency automatically
- Voice Isolation improves call clarity
- Intelligent switching between Apple devices
Samsung Galaxy Buds3 FE AI
- Real-time AI translation via Galaxy AI
- Environment-aware sound tuning
- Smarter noise control based on surroundings
Real-Time Translation Example
Imagine traveling abroad. Someone speaks in Spanish, your phone processes the audio, and you hear the translated English instantly in your earbuds.
It feels natural and extremely useful for travel, meetings, and language learning.
- Compatibility & Battery Life: The Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are compatible with Android devices running Android 8.0 or l…
- Audio Features: Equipped with Bluetooth 5.4, the Buds 3 Pro support SSC HiFi and UHQ audio codecs, delivering 24bit/96KH…
- ANC & AI Features: The Buds 3 Pro feature improved Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and advanced Galaxy AI, which enhance…
Sports, Fitness and Daily Use
Neither earbud directly tracks biometrics alone, but both integrate deeply with smart ecosystems.
For Sports and Running
- Stable fit during runs
- Sweat resistance (IPX4)
- Voice feedback and notifications
AirPods Pro 3 pair seamlessly with Apple Watch for workout prompts and call handling.
Galaxy Buds3 FE integrate well with Samsung Health and Galaxy Watches, offering clear guidance without distractions.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery performance is solid on both.
- AirPods Pro 3 reach up to 30 hours with the case
- Galaxy Buds3 FE reach up to 24 hours
- Both support wireless charging and fast top-ups
For most users, either option easily covers a full workday.
Real User Opinions
Lucas, remote worker
“The AirPods Pro 3 feel effortless. I forget I’m wearing them during meetings.”
Mariana, frequent traveler
“The translation feature on the Galaxy Buds3 FE is surprisingly practical.”
André, runner
“Both stay in place, but Buds3 FE feel more secure during intense runs.”
Carla, content creator
“AirPods Pro 3 sound more natural for calls and voice recordings.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Apple AirPods Pro 3 better than Galaxy Buds3 FE?
It depends on your ecosystem. Apple users benefit more from AirPods Pro 3, while Samsung users gain more AI features with Buds3 FE.
Do Galaxy Buds3 FE really translate in real time?
Yes. When paired with a Galaxy phone, translations are delivered directly into the earbuds during conversations.
Are AirPods Pro 3 good for sports?
Yes. They are comfortable, stable, and integrate well with Apple Watch for workouts.
Which has better noise cancellation?
AirPods Pro 3 offer more adaptive noise control, while Buds3 FE provide strong everyday ANC.
Can I use both on non-native devices?
Yes, but advanced features work best inside their respective ecosystems.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
There is no wrong choice here.
Choose Apple AirPods Pro 3 if you:
- Use Apple devices daily
- Want seamless switching and adaptive intelligence
- Prioritize comfort and call quality
Choose Samsung Galaxy Buds3 FE if you:
- Use Samsung or Android devices
- Want AI translation and smart audio
- Prefer a more secure fit for movement
If you want a deeper dive into each model individually, you can also explore our full reviews of the AirPods Pro 3 and the Galaxy Buds3 FE, where we analyze real-world performance in more detail.