Key Facts

• Apple AirPods Pro (3rd Gen, 2025) – Newly redesigned with world-leading ANC, heart-rate tracking, and Live Translation features apple.com theverge.com. Smaller earbuds with foam-infused ear tips (5 sizes) for a secure fit and IP57 durability apple.com macrumors.com. Up to 8 hours ANC playback (33% longer) than last gen apple.com. Priced at $249, shipping Sept 19, 2025 theverge.com theverge.com.
• Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 (2024) – Google’s flagship buds with custom Tensor A1 chip and AI smarts. Boast Adaptive Audio that auto-adjusts noise reduction, Silent Seal 2.0 ANC, and hands-free “Gemini” AI assistant integration store.google.com store.google.com. Large 11 mm drivers deliver powerful bass and spatial audio store.google.com store.google.com. IP54 earbuds (dust/water resistant) store.google.com store.google.com. Long battery life: up to 8 hours (ANC on), 12 hours (ANC off); 30 hours with case store.google.com. Launched at $229.
• Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro (2024) – Premium dual-driver earbuds with a 10.5 mm woofer + 6.1 mm planar tweeter for hi-fi sound techradar.com. Feature a stem-style design with “Blade Light” LED strips for status and easy locating techradar.com. Equipped with Adaptive Noise Control ANC and AI features like built-in Live Translate samsung.com samsung.com. IP57 rated dust/water resistance samsung.com. Battery rated 6 hours (ANC on), 7 hours (off); ~26–30 hours total with case samsung.com. Official price $249 (often on sale around $189).

Each model excels in sound and noise-cancellation while targeting its brand’s ecosystem. Below we compare them across audio quality, ANC performance, smart features, comfort/durability, battery, ecosystem integration, and pricing – plus a peek at other upcoming earbuds.

Sound Quality and Codec Support

Apple AirPods Pro 3 emphasize refined audio via a new multi-port acoustic architecture rather than raw specs. Apple claims a wider soundstage, enhanced bass, and vivid vocals, thanks to advanced Adaptive EQ and airflow control within the redesigned driver enclosure apple.com. Early hands-on reports note “unbelievable sound quality” with immersive spatial audio apple.com. However, codec support remains limited to Apple’s AAC and SBC standards – no LDAC/aptX support – though Apple’s new H3 chip (not explicitly named in the press release) likely enables low-latency, high-quality audio when paired with Apple devices (e.g. Lossless audio streaming with Vision Pro). In practice, AirPods Pro 3 rely on Apple’s DSP tuning for excellence rather than hi-res codec support. The upside is that spatial audio with head tracking is seamlessly supported on Apple Music and iOS (Dolby Atmos content). But if you demand official “lossless” Bluetooth, Apple is holding out for its own ecosystem solutions.

Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 pack serious hardware: 11 mm custom dynamic drivers in each bud store.google.com, plus a new high-frequency audio chamber for smoother treble. Reviewers praise their excellent bass response and overall clarity, calling the sound “premium” for a Google bud gizmodo.com gizmodo.com. They support standard SBC and AAC codecs; notably, no LDAC or aptX is advertised. Instead, Google leans on its Tensor A1 chip to do heavy lifting: real-time tuning, Adaptive EQ, and spatial audio processing. Pixel Buds Pro 2 do offer Spatial Audio with head tracking on Pixel phones (Pixel 6 or newer) for movies and music soundguys.com. They also include Bluetooth “Super Wideband” voice codec for clearer calls on Pixel devices store.google.com store.google.com. While hi-res audiophiles might lament the lack of a third-party codec, the Buds Pro 2 still deliver impressive audio quality. In fact, out-of-the-box sound earned high marks – “most people will like the sound… even without a Samsung (hi-res) codec” according to one analysis soundguys.com soundguys.com. And Google’s Pixel Buds app provides a 5-band EQ to fine-tune sound to your liking store.google.com store.google.com.

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro take a hardware-heavy approach to audio fidelity. Each bud houses dual drivers with a “two-way” speaker system: a 10.5 mm dynamic driver for rich bass/mids, and a 6.1 mm micro-planar driver dedicated to treble techradar.com. This exotic setup aims to deliver audiophile-grade clarity – a rare inclusion in earbuds. SoundGuys reports the Buds3 Pro “sound quite good” even on default settings, with high timbre and immersiveness scores soundguys.com soundguys.com. Samsung also includes a 9-band EQ in the Galaxy Wearable app for deep customization rtings.com rtings.com. On the codec front, the Buds3 Pro support the usual SBC/AAC, but their standout is Samsung’s proprietary Seamless Hi-Fi Codec, which enables 24-bit/96 kHz audio streaming when paired with a modern Samsung phone (Galaxy S23/S24, Fold/Flip 5/6 on One UI 6.1.1+) soundguys.com soundguys.com. This means Galaxy users can enjoy true high-res wireless audio – whereas on other Androids or iOS, the buds will revert to standard codecs. Notably, Samsung also added Bluetooth LE Audio features like Auracast broadcast support on these buds soundguys.com, signaling they’re future-proofing for next-gen Bluetooth audio. In summary, Galaxy Buds3 Pro can deliver top-tier sound quality – especially within the Samsung ecosystem – combining hardware prowess (dual drivers) with hi-res codec support.

Verdict: All three earbuds offer excellent sound, but they achieve it differently. AirPods Pro 3 lean on Apple’s acoustic design and spatial processing (great for balanced sound across genres, but limited to AAC). Pixel Buds Pro 2 focus on a powerful single driver and AI tuning to please most ears, albeit without formal hi-res support. Galaxy Buds3 Pro pack the most exotic hardware and enable true hi-res playback on Samsung devices – potentially the best choice for audiophiles who have a compatible Galaxy phone techradar.com. For everyday listeners without a specific phone tie-in, all three produce rich, high-quality sound; you likely won’t be disappointed by any in terms of audio performance.

Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency

All three models compete fiercely in noise-cancellation, but Apple is making the boldest claims this round. AirPods Pro 3 feature what Apple calls “the world’s best in-ear ANC” apple.com. Thanks to ultra-low-noise mics, new computational audio algorithms, and foam ear tips for better passive seal, Apple says ANC is up to 2× more effective than the AirPods Pro 2 (which were already excellent), and 4× better than the original AirPods Pro apple.com apple.com. In other words, AirPods Pro 3 aim to set a new benchmark for silencing ambient noise. Early reviewers seem impressed: Apple “removes twice the noise compared to Pro 2” and easily handles transit or office noise theverge.com. Apple also improved Transparency mode – now “more personalized” so that voices (including your own) sound natural while still letting you hear surroundings apple.com. Notably, Apple introduced an Adaptive Audio mode (via iOS 17) for their AirPods that dynamically blends ANC and transparency depending on your environment. This likely carries over to AirPods Pro 3, allowing them to automatically dial noise-blocking up or down on the fly. Combined with an innovative Live Translation feature (more on that later) which actually leverages ANC to dim the speaker’s voice while translating theverge.com, Apple’s ANC system is not just brute-force strong but also smart. In short, expect class-leading noise cancellation – Apple is confident enough to call it the best of any in-ear headphones theverge.com.

Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 also deliver potent ANC, building on the solid performance of the first-gen Pixel Buds Pro. Google’s marketing says the Tensor-powered system cancels “twice the noise” of the original gizmodo.com gizmodo.com. The buds use Silent Seal 2.0, which presumably adapts ANC to your ear fit and monitors leakage. Reviews confirm “powerful noise canceling” that is on par with premium competitors gizmodo.com gizmodo.com. While Google doesn’t boast “world’s best,” the ANC is highly effective for daily use – muffling traffic rumble, office chatter, and other distractions with ease. Impressively, a Loud Noise Protection feature will automatically dampen sudden spikes (like sirens) to protect your hearing store.google.com theverge.com. Transparency mode is also supported, letting ambient sound in when needed (for example, voices or announcements) store.google.com. A big addition is Adaptive Audio (rolling out via update in late 2025), which automatically adjusts ANC/transparency levels and volume based on environmental noise theverge.com. This mirrors Apple’s adaptive mode – as your surroundings get louder or quieter, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 will intelligently modulate how much noise to cancel versus let through. It makes using ANC more seamless, especially in variable environments like walking through a city (no more constantly toggling modes). Overall, Pixel Buds Pro 2 offer excellent ANC and a smart adaptive mode, falling just a hair short of Apple’s claimed supremacy. In everyday scenarios most users find them highly effective – “powerful noise canceling” that can go head-to-head with the best gizmodo.com.

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro come with Adaptive Noise Control, an AI-enhanced ANC system. Samsung redesigned the buds for a better seal and added adaptive ANC that can adjust on the fly (likely similar concept to Apple/Google’s adaptive audio). In practice, the Buds3 Pro have been lauded for their noise blocking: Rtings measured “outstanding noise isolation”, noting the buds “attenuate a remarkable amount of background noise” rtings.com rtings.com. They combine strong passive isolation (deep in-ear fit + foam tips) with ANC that hushed everything from airplane drone to chatter in reviews rtings.com. One reviewer said the Buds3 Pro’s ANC is “fantastic” for travel, easily silencing cabin noise and city sounds rtings.com. However, some tests noted quirks: SoundGuys found the raw ANC performance to be a bit less effective than the previous Buds2 Pro in certain conditions, especially for higher frequencies soundguys.com soundguys.com. This might have been early firmware issues – Samsung has since issued updates, and user feedback on ANC is largely positive. The Buds3 Pro also include Voice Detect (as seen on prior models), which automatically switches from ANC to Ambient mode when it hears you speaking – great for brief conversations without fumbling controls. In terms of Transparency/Ambient sound, Samsung’s ambient mode is decent but not the most natural: you’ll hear outside sounds clearly, though you may still sense you’re wearing earbuds soundguys.com. A neat extra: Samsung’s Live Translate feature uses the mics and a paired Samsung phone to provide on-the-fly translation of foreign speech, somewhat analogous to Apple’s Live Translation samsung.com. It’s not strictly an ANC/transparency feature, but it leverages the Buds3 Pro’s microphones and ambient mode to facilitate conversation across languages.

Verdict: In pure ANC muscle, AirPods Pro 3 likely take the crown – early tests affirm Apple’s claim of noticeably deeper noise reduction theverge.com. Galaxy Buds3 Pro are not far behind, offering top-tier ANC especially for low-frequency droning noises (and they have excellent passive seal from their new design). Pixel Buds Pro 2 also provide premium noise cancellation that most users will find more than sufficient, plus they, like Apple, now offer adaptive noise adjustment for convenience theverge.com. If you want the absolute quietest experience on a plane or in a noisy cafe, AirPods Pro 3 might edge out a win. But all three do an admirable job – a “fantastic ANC” experience by any measure rtings.com – and each has a transparency mode to let the world in when necessary.

Smart Features and Special Functions

One big differentiator in this generation is the array of smart features and sensors packed into these earbuds. Apple AirPods Pro 3 have introduced headline-grabbing new abilities. Most notably, they are the first earbuds with a heart-rate monitor from Apple. Each AirPod Pro 3 contains a custom PPG heart-rate sensor that shines infrared light to measure your pulse from the ear theverge.com. During workouts, you can see your live heart rate in the Fitness app and even track calories and exercise with just the AirPods and an iPhone apple.com apple.com. This effectively gives AirPods some fitness tracker capabilities – “a standout feature… a first for the AirPods line” techcrunch.com. Apple leverages this for a new “Workout Buddy” feature, providing coached workout feedback via AI using your heart rate and motion data apple.com. Another major feature is Live Translation: using on-device intelligence in iOS 17, AirPods Pro 3 can assist in translating conversations in real time. Apple describes that when enabled, you can have a bilingual conversation – your iPhone listens and plays one language aloud, while your AirPods play the translation in your ear techcrunch.com theverge.com. Supported languages at launch include English, French, German, Spanish, and Portuguese macrumors.com. This essentially builds on Apple’s Translate app but makes it a seamless, hands-free experience for travelers.

AirPods Pro 3 also inherit and enhance many of Apple’s existing smart features: Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking (for immersive surround sound in movies and music) is present as before. There’s Adaptive EQ that auto-tunes music to your ear shape in real time. Personalized Volume and Conversation Awareness (features introduced in 2023) likely come standard – for instance, conversation awareness automatically lowers volume and enables transparency when you start speaking to someone. Siri voice assistant is always a “Hey Siri” away for hands-free commands. The interactive charging case got an upgrade as well: TechCrunch notes the case is smaller and “more interactive” – possibly hinting at added speakers or UWB integration for Find My techcrunch.com. (The previous gen’s case had a speaker and UWB for location finding; Apple may have refined this further). Indeed, Apple uses the U1 chip in the case for Precision Finding via the Find My app, so you can pinpoint a lost case. Overall, AirPods Pro 3 are tightly integrated with iOS and Apple’s ecosystem. They instantly auto-pair with your iCloud devices, seamlessly switch between iPhone/Mac/Watch, and support features like Audio Sharing (two sets of AirPods listening to one device). In short, Apple’s earbuds double as a fitness tracker, translator, and extension of Siri – truly “personal audio” devices.

Google Pixel Buds Pro 2, with the Tensor A1 chip, are all about AI-enhanced features. One highlight is the deep integration of Google Assistant (codenamed “Gemini”). You can call up the Assistant hands-free (just “Hey Google”), but it goes further: Google touts “Gemini Live” on these buds, allowing advanced tasks entirely via voice. For example, you can dictate notes to Google Keep, add calendar events, or even brainstorm ideas with the AI without touching your phone store.google.com. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 prioritize your voice and cancel out background noise during these interactions, so the Assistant can hear you clearly even on a noisy street store.google.com. This is essentially Google’s answer to Siri, but arguably more powerful given Google’s AI prowess – you can have the buds summarize and read out text messages, transcribe and respond to messages by voice, and presumably tap into the new generative AI features of Google Assistant (Gemini is rumored to be Google’s next-gen conversational AI).

Another futuristic trick: Pixel Buds Pro 2 can detect head gestures. Using built-in accelerometers, they can sense a nod or shake of your head to accept or reject calls, or even to trigger certain commands store.google.com. This feature – nod for “yes” (answer call), shake for “no” – is rolling out via a software update in late 2025 store.google.com. It’s a very novel, truly hands-free way to interact. The Pixel Buds also offer Conversation Detection: much like Sony’s Speak-to-Chat or Apple’s conversation awareness, if you start speaking while wearing them, the buds can automatically pause audio and switch to transparency mode. This wasn’t heavily advertised by Google, but the spec sheet lists “Conversation Detection” under audio features store.google.com. On the hearing safety front, we mentioned Loud Sound alert/protection that automatically reduces sudden loud noises theverge.com – a thoughtful touch for your health. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 also integrate with Android’s ecosystem: Fast Pair for quick Bluetooth pairing, Find My Device (Find Hub) to locate lost buds (each bud and the case have ringers for finding them store.google.com), and multi-device switching across Android/Chrome devices. They support Multipoint connectivity, allowing pairing to two devices simultaneously (e.g. phone and laptop) and auto-switching between them – something Samsung’s buds lack standard, and Apple does only within its own devices. Additionally, Pixel Buds Pro 2 support Google Translate’s Conversation Mode (though not a one-click feature like Apple/Samsung’s implementations – you can use Google Assistant to translate languages on the fly, which the Buds will pipe into your ear). All these make Pixel Buds Pro 2 an “excellent Pixel phone companion” loaded with intelligence soundguys.com. The only caveat raised by some reviewers was that the Gemini AI integration can feel underwhelming at times gizmodo.com gizmodo.com – likely because having AI chats via earbuds is still a new user experience that may not always be smoother than using your phone. Nonetheless, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 push the envelope with hands-free smarts and AI.

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro also pack a suite of smart features, many leveraging the new “Galaxy AI” platform. They introduced some flashy ones: Live Translation is built-in, allowing you to get real-time translation of spoken language when paired with a compatible Samsung phone samsung.com. It likely works similar to Apple’s approach – using Samsung’s AI to interpret speech and play a translated version to you (and possibly display text on your phone). Another standout is the design of the buds themselves: the Blade Light LED strips on the stems aren’t just cosmetic; they serve functional purposes like indicating charging status, pairing mode, and possibly acting as a flashlight to help you locate a dropped bud in the dark techradar.com. The stems also enable those AirPods-style swipe and pinch controls – you can swipe up/down on the stems for volume, pinch to play/pause or switch modes techradar.com. Samsung copied (and arguably improved) Apple’s intuitive stem controls, which many users find easier than tapping. The Buds3 Pro come with 360 Audio (spatial audio) when used with Galaxy devices, giving you theater-like surround sound for supported content. They also support auto device switching across Samsung phones, tablets, and even TVs/Windows PCs with the appropriate software samsung.com samsung.com. This is similar to Apple’s continuity – though note, outside the Samsung world, there’s no true multipoint, so you can only actively connect one device at a time (Samsung’s “Auto Switch” just swaps between Samsung devices as needed).

Samsung’s Wearable app provides a ton of customization: beyond EQ, you have toggles for features like Voice Detect (auto pause ANC when you speak), ambient sound level adjustments, and even a “neck stretch reminder” in older models (to nudge you if you’ve been sitting too long – unclear if Buds3 Pro retain this). The Buds3 Pro also integrate with Samsung Health for some basic workout audio guides and can seamlessly connect to the new Galaxy Watch for audio control. One unique upcoming Samsung wearable synergy is the Galaxy Ring (smart ring) – Samsung’s app hints that Buds3 Pro could possibly interact with their ring or other wearables for fitness or controls (speculative, but Samsung has an eye on ecosystem synergy like Apple). Finally, Samsung took a step into Augmented Audio: the Buds3 Pro support Auracast broadcasting soundguys.com, meaning in the future you could tune into public audio streams (e.g. TVs in a gym or announcements at an airport) if those are broadcast via Bluetooth LE Audio. It’s an early adoption that could become very useful as Auracast deployments grow. While not all these features will matter to every user, it’s clear Samsung packed the Buds3 Pro with as much tech as possible, making them more than just music earbuds – they’re part translator, part hearing aid (with Ambient sound amplification features), part communications tool.

Verdict: If you love cutting-edge features, you can’t go wrong with any of these. AirPods Pro 3 arguably take the lead in sensor innovation (heart-rate, anyone?) and are tightly integrated with Apple’s excellent ecosystem of features (spatial audio, Siri, seamless device handoff, Find My). Pixel Buds Pro 2 lean into Google’s AI strengths – arguably the smartest for voice-based tasks thanks to Assistant/Gemini – and have nifty tricks like head-gesture control that feel futuristic store.google.com. Galaxy Buds3 Pro are feature-packed with translation, customizable LEDs, and deep integration with Galaxy devices (though some features require Samsung phones specifically samsung.com). Depending on your ecosystem: an iPhone user will get the most out of AirPods Pro 3, Pixel/Android users will enjoy the Pixel Buds’ Assistant and multipoint, and Galaxy owners will find Buds3 Pro uniquely tailored for them. All three also prioritize hearing safety (Adaptive volume, loud noise protection) and convenience (auto pause, find-my-buds) to enhance day-to-day use.

Comfort, Fit, and Durability

All three earbuds have seen design refinements to improve comfort and fit – crucial for something you’ll wear hours a day. AirPods Pro 3 sport a new, slightly smaller design than their predecessor and come with completely new ear tips macrumors.com macrumors.com. Apple collected “over 10,000 ear scans” and re-engineered the internal shape to make the buds fit more ears securely apple.com apple.com. The ear tip’s external geometry is now aligned to the center of the earbud body for better stability apple.com. They also introduced foam-infused silicone ear tips (as opposed to pure silicone). This foam core helps conform to your ear canal, improving comfort and passive noise blocking. Impressively, Apple now includes five sizes of tips, from XXS to L – acknowledging that very small-eared users struggled before apple.com. This is a big plus if AirPods never quite fit you right; the XXS and new shape should help. Early impressions confirm “exceptional in-ear fit and stability” – Apple calls them the “best-fitting AirPods ever” apple.com apple.com. They’re designed to stay put even during vigorous activity (running, HIIT, etc.), and with an IP57 rating, sweat won’t be an issue apple.com macrumors.com. The weight per earbud is likely around 5.3g (similar to AirPods Pro 2) – lightweight enough for extended wear. The short stem design remains, now touch-sensitive for pinch and swipe controls. And the new case, aside from being more compact, probably maintains the smooth rounded shape that slips easily into pockets. The case’s durability is not explicitly stated, but AirPods Pro 2’s case was IPX4; Apple hasn’t confirmed if the new case also meets that, but the buds themselves are IP57 water/sweat resistant (can be submerged in 1m for 30 minutes) apple.com. Overall, AirPods Pro 3 should be extremely comfortable for most people thanks to the exhaustive fit research – they’re aiming for that “forget they’re even in” feeling.

Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 underwent a significant size reduction and ergonomic redesign from the first-gen. They are smaller and lighter – each bud is just 4.7 g (down from ~6.2 g in Pixel Buds Pro) gizmodo.com. Gizmodo’s reviewer raved about how tiny and comfortable they are: “massively reduced in size and weight… the fit is perfect” gizmodo.com gizmodo.com. Google added a subtle “twist-to-adjust stabilizer”, essentially a mini fin on each bud that helps lock it in place in your ear concha gizmodo.com. These stabilizer nubs are much smaller than typical ear wings, so they don’t protrude, but they provide just enough grip. The idea is you can rotate the bud slightly for two fit options: one more secure (e.g. for workouts) and one a bit looser for casual comfort gizmodo.com. In practice, our reviewer found it always snug (“either tight or not tight enough” – perhaps the dual-mode distinction was subtle) gizmodo.com, but bottom line, they stay put extremely well. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 also ship with four sizes of ear tips (XS, S, M, L), now including an extra-small for those with tiny ear canals store.google.com gizmodo.com. Comfort-wise, users report being able to wear them for hours without pressure or pain – the combination of light weight and ergonomic shape really paid off. Dua Rashid of Gizmodo went so far as to say “Google finally cooked up the perfect recipe for in-ear buds that don’t budge”, noting even with brisk walking and chores “they stayed put throughout” gizmodo.com gizmodo.com. For people who struggle with in-ears falling out, Pixel Buds Pro 2 might be a revelation. They lack any stem, adopting a low-profile “button” shape that sits flush in the ear. This design, similar to Samsung’s older Buds, means no protruding parts to catch on anything. The trade-off is you interact by touching the flat surface (taps and swipes), but Google implemented a great horizontal swipe for volume which users find very intuitive gizmodo.com gizmodo.com. In terms of durability, Pixel Buds Pro 2 are rated IP54 for the earbuds (dust and splash resistant) store.google.com store.google.com. This covers rain, sweat, and dust, but they aren’t meant to be submerged (so avoid dropping them in a pool). The charging case is IPX4, so it can handle a few splashes too store.google.com. While not quite as water-tight as Apple’s or Samsung’s IP57 buds, IP54 is sufficient for workouts and daily use – just don’t rinse them under a faucet. All told, Pixel Buds Pro 2 earn high marks for comfort and fit. They are “extremely snug” without causing discomfort, and the smaller size plus optional winglets address one of the main complaints about the previous model gizmodo.com gizmodo.com.

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro took a new direction in design compared to Buds2 Pro. Samsung added AirPods-like stems for the first time, after years of a “no-stem” design. These stems are short and angular, with the distinctive Blade Light LED strips running down them techradar.com. This change isn’t just aesthetic – the stems provide an easy grip and host swipe sensors, and they also reposition the center of mass slightly, which can aid stability. The Buds3 Pro still use an in-canal tip design (unlike the non-Pro Buds3 which are semi-open). Testers have found them comfortable and stable even without wing tips: Rtings noted “they’re comfortable, lightweight… their stability is still good unless your ears are very hard to fit” rtings.com. Samsung doesn’t include extra fin attachments – it seems they decided the new shape holds well on its own, and user feedback largely agrees. The bud sits in the ear with the stem pointing downward; it’s a bit of a hybrid between an AirPod Pro and older Samsung buds. The inclusion of two drivers didn’t bulk them up too much – they remain fairly compact on the ear. Importantly, Samsung provides multiple ear tip sizes (likely S, M, L, similar to before – possibly also XS now given competitors). The IP57 rating is a strong point: these buds are fully waterproof for submersion up to 1 m for 30 minutes (and dust-tight) samsung.com. That makes them the most durable of the bunch alongside AirPods Pro 3. You can confidently run in heavy rain or rinse these earbuds off if needed (though avoid soap). Gym use is no problem – sweat won’t faze them. The charging case, however, is not explicitly IP-rated, so don’t soak the case. In terms of long-term comfort, some users report the Buds3 Pro’s slightly larger housing (due to dual drivers) can cause a bit of pressure over very extended listening, but many find them just as comfy as any premium buds. The lack of a wing means if you have particularly slippery ears, they might not lock in as tightly as Pixel’s with stabilizers, but the stem design helps anchor them. The Buds3 Pro also benefit from being very lightweight (Samsung hasn’t published the exact weight, but likely around 5g each, similar to others). Samsung has clearly put effort into the redesign – a TechRadar update highlighted the “striking new design” and noted the Buds3 Pro “sit in your ear canals for better isolation… that typically means better bass too”, implying the fit is secure and acoustically optimal techradar.com techradar.com.

Verdict: All three earbuds achieve a high level of comfort and security, but with different approaches. AirPods Pro 3 and Galaxy Buds3 Pro now share a philosophy: a stemmed design with a deep in-ear fit, plus IP57 ruggedness for sweat and water samsung.com apple.com. AirPods may edge out others for those with very small ears thanks to their XXS tips and slightly smaller body apple.com. Pixel Buds Pro 2 have arguably the most innovative fit solution (built-in mini-wings) and are the smallest/lightest of the trio, making them ideal for all-day wear – especially if typical earbuds tend to fall out of your ears gizmodo.com gizmodo.com. Their IP54 rating is a notch below, but still fine for everyday conditions store.google.com. If you prioritize maximum water resistance (for example, if you’ll use earbuds while paddle-boarding or in very wet conditions), AirPods or Galaxy might be safer choices with IP57. But for pure comfort over long listening sessions, many reviewers give the nod to Pixel Buds Pro 2 due to their tiny, ergonomic design and secure fit that “doesn’t budge.” Each model comes with a range of ear tip sizes – so take the time to find the right fit, as that will dramatically impact both comfort and audio/ANC performance.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery endurance has steadily improved with each generation, and here Pixel and Apple in particular have made strides. AirPods Pro 3 now achieve up to 8 hours of listening time with ANC enabled apple.com, a 33% jump from the 6 hours on AirPods Pro 2. In Transparency mode (or ANC off), they can last even longer – Apple cites 10 hours in Transparency macrumors.com, likely around that for pure ANC-off playback as well. With the charging case, you’ll get around 30 hours total (Apple hasn’t explicitly stated total, but given the prior gen was 30h with 6+24, the new one might be ~32–34h with 8+ additional charges). In any case, expect roughly ~~1.5 days of moderate use on a charge. A quick-charge feature is present: although the exact spec isn’t in the press release, traditionally 5 minutes in the case gives ~1 hour of play (and likely similar for Pro 3 given improved efficiency). The charging case now uses USB-C (Apple finally moved from Lightning), making it convenient to charge with the same cable as new iPhones or iPads. It also supports MagSafe/Qi wireless charging as before. So you have all three charging options: cable, wireless pad, or MagSafe magnet attach. The case capacity likely hasn’t shrunk, so it still provides about 3-4 full recharges of the buds. Given the improvements, AirPods Pro 3 are among the best in class for battery now – 8 hours ANC-on is at the top end for ANC earbuds (and 10 hours with ANC off is excellent).

Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 actually meet or exceed Apple’s numbers in some conditions. With ANC off, they boast a whopping 12 hours per charge, and 48 hours total with case store.google.com. That’s because the buds themselves and the case battery are quite robust. With ANC on, Pixel Buds Pro 2 get about 8 hours per charge and 30 hours with case store.google.com – essentially identical to AirPods Pro 3 in noise-cancelling mode. This is a big improvement from the first-gen Pixel Buds Pro (which were ~7h ANC, 20h with case). Google clearly optimized power usage with the Tensor A1 chip. In real-world terms, 8 hours ANC playback will easily cover a work day of on-and-off listening or a long-haul flight (though if you plan to actually have ANC on continuously for an 8+ hour flight, note the case can recharge the buds during a quick break). The case is charged via USB-C and is Qi wireless charging capable as well store.google.com. A fast charge is supported: Google says 5 minutes in case = ~1 hour 30 minutes of listening (ANC off) store.google.com, or a bit less with ANC on. So a short top-up can get you through a commute if you forgot to charge overnight. Pixel Buds Pro 2’s case holds enough juice for roughly three additional charges (since 12h bud + 36h from case = 48h total). That 48h figure is among the highest on the market for true wireless earbuds. It’s worth noting Google achieved this without making the case huge – it’s still pocketable and now even “smaller than ever” for the Pixel Buds 2A/Pro 2 designs soundguys.com soundguys.com. The Pixel Buds app also allows you to see battery levels for each bud and case easily, and you get proactive low-battery alerts.

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro have slightly shorter battery life by comparison, likely due to their smaller form factor and power-hungry features (dual drivers, LED lights, etc.). Samsung rates them at 6 hours with ANC on, 7 hours with ANC off per charge samsung.com. The case provides about 3–4 extra charges: Samsung quotes up to 26 hours total (with ANC on) or 30 hours (ANC off) including the case samsung.com. In practice, reviewers found around 4.5–5 hours of continuous playback with ANC in real-world conditions at moderate volume soundguys.com soundguys.com. That’s a bit below the spec (Samsung’s numbers might be at 50% volume and ideal conditions). It suggests the Buds3 Pro’s ANC or other features draw more power; indeed SoundGuys noted they “chew through battery faster than we’d hope” and might require topping up during long flights soundguys.com soundguys.com. Still, for most day-to-day use (commutes, workouts, etc.) 5–6 hours is sufficient, and the case can fast-charge them. Samsung doesn’t advertise a specific quick-charge stat, but generally 5 minutes in case yields around 1 hour play, which aligns with peers. The Buds3 Pro case charges via USB-C and supports wireless charging (including reverse wireless charging from a Galaxy phone). A neat touch: because Samsung’s case has the LED Blade Lights on the buds, you can see charging status of each bud at a glance – though functional, those LEDs do consume a tiny bit of battery themselves.

In summary, Pixel Buds Pro 2 have the longest battery endurance overall (up to 12h single-use, 48h with case with ANC off store.google.com, and a solid 8h/30h with ANC on). AirPods Pro 3 are not far behind, now matching 8h ANC runtime apple.com – a huge win for Apple users – and likely ~30h total with the convenience of MagSafe/Lightning alternatives gone USB-C. Galaxy Buds3 Pro are decent but trail a bit – roughly 6h/26h ANC and 7h/30h basic samsung.com, which is similar to last-gen levels. If you often forget to charge earbuds or want to use them extensively throughout the day, Pixel’s extra stamina gives more cushion. That said, all three have cases that easily extend usage through intermittent charging. One could argue Samsung’s slightly shorter battery is offset by other features, but heavy travelers might prefer Apple or Pixel for that extra couple hours of peace on a flight. Fortunately, quick-charge capabilities mean that even the Samsung buds can get a meaningful boost in a short time. And importantly, all three cases are wirelessly chargeable, so you can drop them on a charging pad or use phone reverse-charge in a pinch (works on Google and Samsung phones for their respective buds, and with iPhones if you have a MagSafe battery pack or Qi device).

Integration with Ecosystems (iOS, Android, etc.)

Each of these earbuds shines brightest when used within its native ecosystem, though they all can connect to basically any Bluetooth audio source. Let’s break it down:

AirPods Pro 3 + Apple Ecosystem: If you’re an iPhone (or Mac, iPad, Apple Watch) user, AirPods Pro 3 offer a seamless, magical experience that competitors can’t fully replicate on iOS. Pairing is effortless – flip open the case near an iPhone and a one-tap prompt connects them to your iCloud account. From then on, the AirPods auto-switch between your Apple devices. For instance, start a podcast on your iPhone, then play a video on your Mac – the AirPods will intelligently switch audio output. No manual re-pairing needed (though you can override in Control Center). Siri integration is deep: you can use “Hey Siri” to send messages, control music, ask for directions, etc., completely hands-free. On iOS, you can also see the AirPods’ status (battery of buds and case) right on the screen widgets, and you can control settings like ANC/Transparency or spatial audio via the Control Center’s AirPods menu. Features like Spatial Audio calibration (Personalized Spatial Audio scans your ear shape) only work on iOS. The Find My network integration means if you lose an AirPod or the case, your iPhone can lead you directly to it with on-screen arrows and play sounds – super handy techcrunch.com. All firmware updates are delivered through iOS as well (silently while charging). On macOS, AirPods are similarly well integrated now, with easy device switching and Siri. If you have an Apple TV, AirPods can seamlessly connect for private listening (even spatial audio for Dolby Atmos content on Apple TV+). In contrast, on Android or Windows, AirPods Pro 3 will function as basic Bluetooth earbuds (you’ll get ANC and Transparency via the last-known setting, and you can play/pause with the stems), but you lose most smart features: no auto-pause (since that relies on Apple’s ecosystem), no Siri (obviously), no easy way to check battery or update firmware, and even volume swipe might not work as smoothly. There are some third-party Android apps that can show AirPods battery and control ANC modes, but it’s not official. Notably, Apple’s new Live Translation feature likely requires an iPhone running iOS 17+, so that wouldn’t be available on other platforms techcrunch.com. Bottom line: AirPods Pro 3 are phenomenal for Apple device owners, but fairly bare-bones on other platforms (they’ll still deliver great sound/ANC as a standard Bluetooth accessory, just without the special sauce).

Pixel Buds Pro 2 + Android/Pixel: Designed by Google, these buds are best experienced on a Pixel phone or any modern Android with Google services. They use Google Fast Pair, so when you bring them near an Android device, you get a quick pop-up to connect (similar to AirPods on iPhone) – and they even carry over pairing info to other devices on your Google account. The Pixel Buds app (or built-in settings on Pixel phones) gives you full control: ANC toggle, customizing touch controls, checking fit (seal check), selecting spatial audio modes, and applying firmware updates. Google ensures Assistant integration is top-notch – on Android you can invoke Google Assistant (Gemini) just by voice or by touching and holding the bud, and get notifications read out, reply via voice, etc. Some features, like Spatial Audio with head tracking, are limited to Pixel phones (Pixel 6 and above) because they require phone-side support soundguys.com. Also, features like Bluetooth Super Wideband for calls require at least a Pixel 7 phone store.google.com store.google.com. So Pixel owners get the absolute full feature set (including upcoming head gesture control and Adaptive Audio as those roll out theverge.com), while other Android users still get most core features except perhaps spatial audio. Importantly, Pixel Buds Pro 2 are platform-agnostic enough that even iPhone users can pair and use them as normal Bluetooth earbuds for music and calls (they pair like any other device via Bluetooth settings). But on iOS, there’s no official Pixel Buds app, so you can’t adjust ANC mode or use Assistant – you’d be stuck with whatever mode was last set. There is also no Siri integration. So using Pixel Buds Pro 2 on an iPhone is not a great experience; they will play audio, and ANC might default on, but you can’t easily toggle modes or update them. On Windows PCs or Macs, similarly, they’ll function for audio and calls, but without the special software features (though Google’s Fast Pair is expanding to Windows via the Your Phone app integration). One big advantage on Android: Multipoint connectivity is fully supported across different brands (e.g. you can pair Pixel Buds to a Pixel phone and a Windows laptop simultaneously and it will intelligently switch to whichever is playing audio or receiving a call). Samsung and Apple have more rigid device switching tied to their own brand devices, whereas Pixel Buds use the standard Bluetooth multipoint which works universally – a win for users who juggle an Android phone and a computer from any manufacturer store.google.com store.google.com. So, Android users – especially Pixel owners – will get the most out of Pixel Buds Pro 2. If you are deeply in Apple land, you might lean AirPods instead for better compatibility.

Galaxy Buds3 Pro + Samsung/Galaxy: Samsung, similar to Apple, has created an ecosystem experience for its audio gear. If you use a Galaxy phone or tablet (One UI 5 or later), connecting Buds3 Pro is seamless via a pop-up, and the Galaxy Wearable app (or built-in Bluetooth menu) gives you all the controls. On Samsung devices, you can take advantage of the proprietary Seamless Codec for 24-bit audio techradar.com, and features like 360 Audio (spatial), Auto Switch between your Galaxy phone, tablet, Watch, or even Samsung TV samsung.com. For instance, if you’re watching a show on a Samsung tablet and get a call on your Galaxy phone, the Buds3 Pro can auto-switch to the phone. This only works among Samsung devices logged into the same Samsung account. Outside of that, they don’t support standard multipoint pairing, which is a limitation noted by reviewers rtings.com rtings.com. On other Android phones, the Buds3 Pro still work – you can install the Galaxy Wearable app (Samsung made it available for all Android) to control ANC, update firmware, etc. So a OnePlus or Pixel user can still use Buds3 Pro with nearly full feature access except the Samsung-exclusive bits (no 24-bit Seamless Codec on non-Galaxy, no auto-switch). The ANC, ambient sound, EQ customization, etc., will all work via the app on any Android. iPhone support, however, is essentially dropped for newer Samsung buds. There is no iOS Galaxy Buds app supporting Buds3 Pro (Samsung’s iOS app only supports older Buds+ and Live) apps.apple.com. You can pair Buds3 Pro to an iPhone as a generic Bluetooth headphone – they will play music and you can use tap controls (and interestingly, the touch controls like pinch and swipe for volume do still work for local control). But you won’t be able to change ANC mode unless you had it preset (some users report ANC defaults on and remembers last setting). And you won’t get updates or any integration (obviously Siri won’t control them). Essentially, using Buds3 Pro with an iPhone is not recommended – you’d lose a lot of the magic (and conversely, Apple/Android mixes are generally not ideal as each brand optimizes for its own). On Windows PCs, Samsung doesn’t have a dedicated Buds app (except on Galaxy Book laptops which have integration). However, Samsung did introduce something noteworthy: Buds3 Pro can pair with a Windows PC via Swift Pair and if you have the Galaxy Buds app on Windows (released for Buds2 Pro initially), you can adjust some settings on PC too rtings.com. They also support Samsung’s Microsoft integration where if your Buds are paired to your phone and you use the “Link to Windows” your phone app, you might get seamless switching of Buds audio to PC – but this is a niche use case. Summing up, Galaxy Buds3 Pro are excellent if you’re already using Samsung Galaxy devices, giving you seamless audio and unique features in that realm. They work fine on any Android with the app (minus hi-res codec), but those deeply tied into Google’s ecosystem might prefer Pixel Buds for tighter Assistant and multipoint. For Apple users, Galaxy Buds are not a great fit at all – if you’re an iPhone user, you’ll be much happier with AirPods or even platform-agnostic buds from Bose/Sony.

Cross-Platform Note: It’s worth mentioning that all three earbuds will handle standard calls and Zoom/Teams meetings when connected to any device. Each has beamforming mics and wind noise reduction: AirPods Pro 3 use an array of mics and their H3 chip for clean voice, Pixel Buds Pro 2 have beamforming + wind-blocking mesh + AI for clear calls store.google.com store.google.com, and Galaxy Buds3 Pro also have multiple mics with a mesh and even “Super Wideband” speech if on Samsung/Pixel devices samsung.com store.google.com. So call quality should be strong on all, but it will be optimal on their favorite platforms (e.g., AirPods + FaceTime or Pixel Buds + Android).

Verdict: To get the most from these earbuds, stick with their intended ecosystem. AirPods Pro 3 are a no-brainer for Apple users, offering deep integration that enhances everyday convenience techcrunch.com techcrunch.com. Pixel Buds Pro 2 pair best with Android/Pixel, giving you Google’s powerful Assistant and broad compatibility including true multipoint. Galaxy Buds3 Pro thrive with Samsung Galaxy gear, unlocking hi-res audio and automated device hopping within that world. If you mix and match (e.g., you have an iPhone but are eyeing Pixel Buds or Buds3 Pro), be prepared for some compromises in functionality. Conversely, if you are open to sticking in one camp – each of these is optimized to be the ultimate companion to its brand’s phones.

Pricing and Availability

All three earbuds fall in the premium price tier, with Apple and Samsung at identical MSRPs and Google slightly undercutting:

• Apple AirPods Pro (3rd Generation) – Priced at $249 in the US (£249 in UK, likely around €299 in EU). Announced on September 9, 2025, they became available for pre-order immediately and are shipping starting September 19, 2025 theverge.com macrumors.com. Apple typically offers them in only one color (white), and that appears to be the case again – no new color options were mentioned. They come with the MagSafe charging case (now USB-C). Given Apple’s track record, don’t expect major discounts at launch; $249 will be the price for a while, though by holiday season 2025 we may see modest sales ($10–20 off) from retailers. AirPods Pro 3 are sold via Apple’s store and major electronics retailers. If you’re upgrading, note that Apple sometimes offers trade-ins for old AirPods, but values are low. Also, AppleCare+ can be purchased to cover loss or damage (which might be worthwhile for such pricey buds). In some regions, Apple might bundle a few months of Apple Music or Fitness+ for free with AirPods purchase as a promo.
• Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 – Launched at $229 in the US soundguys.com soundguys.com (and about £219 in UK, €229 in Europe). They were first released in late 2024 (around October, alongside the Pixel 9 phone launch) and have remained Google’s flagship earbuds through 2025. In August 2025, Google introduced a new “Moonstone” (dark gray) color for the Buds Pro 2 and restocked availability theverge.com. By now, they come in several colors: the original lineup included Porcelain (white), Hazel (green), Peony (pink), and Wintergreen, while Moonstone (gray) is the latest store.google.com. Availability is through Google’s online store, the Google Store app, and retailers like Best Buy. Given that they’ve been out for a bit, you can often find Pixel Buds Pro 2 on sale – recently they’ve dipped to ~$179 during promotions, and with Pixel phone launches Google sometimes bundles discounts. Also noteworthy: Google has a Pixel Buds 2A (a budget $129 model with ANC) launching in Oct 2025 soundguys.com soundguys.com, but the Pro 2 remain the top-tier option. If you’re shopping, make sure not to confuse Pixel Buds Pro (2022) versus Pro 2 (2024); the Pro 2 are the newer with the Tensor chip – their pricing has largely replaced the original Pro’s $199 slot. Google provides a 1-year warranty and firmware support (they’ve shown commitment by pushing significant feature updates to Pixel Buds via software). As of writing, all colors including Moonstone should be in stock (Moonstone launches officially August 28, 2025 alongside Pixel 10, so by September it’s available) theverge.com.
• Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro – Launched at an MSRP of $249.99 in July 2024 techradar.com techradar.com. This was a $20 increase over the Buds2 Pro’s $229 launch price techradar.com, positioning Buds3 Pro equal to AirPods Pro in cost. Samsung released them in at least two colors initially: Silver and White (as per Samsung’s site) samsung.com samsung.com, and sometimes there’s a Graphite/Black in select markets or special editions, though silver and white are the main options. By late 2024 and 2025, Samsung has frequently offered promotions on the Buds3 Pro. It’s not uncommon to find them on Samsung’s website for around $199 or even $189 with instant rebates techradar.com. In fact, Samsung often bundles trade-in deals (e.g., trade any older earbuds for $40 credit) or direct discounts – at launch they had a pre-order promo with a free case accessory and some limited-time $60 off deals samsung.com samsung.com. Retailers like Amazon and Best Buy also have sold Buds3 Pro for ~$180-200 range, especially when competing with frequent AirPods sales. So while the list price is $249, savvy shoppers can usually avoid paying full price. Samsung also expanded the lineup with Galaxy Buds3 (non-Pro) at $179 and even a Galaxy Buds3 FE (Fan Edition) in late 2025 around $99 techradar.com – those target lower price points but with fewer features. The Buds3 Pro remain the premium choice. In terms of availability, they’re widely sold: Samsung’s online store, carriers (sometimes bundling with Galaxy phones), and third-party retailers. They’ve been on the market for over a year now, so keep an eye for Black Friday or holiday deals which could drop them close to $150 (we even saw a “half price” flash sale at one point techradar.com). Samsung provides a 1-year warranty and has been issuing firmware updates to refine them (e.g., improving ANC performance).

In summary, Apple and Samsung’s Pro earbuds share the same official price ($249), while Google is a tad lower at $229 – a strategy to attract Android users away from AirPods. All are premium – you’re largely paying for the advanced tech, R&D, and brand ecosystems. When comparing value, consider what devices you own: AirPods justify their cost if you’re using iOS daily (the seamless experience is arguably worth it), Pixel Buds Pro 2 give you nearly the same level of features for a bit less money (and often more discounts), and Samsung Buds3 Pro pack in high-end hardware that competes toe-to-toe. Each comes with its own set of accessories in the box (all include multiple ear tip sizes and a charging cable; Apple even includes five pairs of tips now). None of these are “budget” by any means – if $249 is too steep, there are midrange alternatives (like Pixel Buds 2A at $129, Galaxy Buds FE at $99, etc.), but those will compromise on features like ANC quality or sound. For those looking for top-of-the-line wireless earbuds in 2025, these three are priced accordingly, and you can choose based on which ecosystem and feature set aligns with your needs, possibly waiting for a sale if you’re not in a rush.

Upcoming Earbuds: Late 2025 and Beyond

The wireless earbuds market evolves fast – here are a few notable upcoming models rumored or announced for late 2025 into early 2026 that audio enthusiasts might keep an eye on:

• Nothing Ear (3): The hyped startup Nothing (led by ex-OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei) is launching their third-gen earbuds, Ear (3), on September 18, 2025 9to5google.com 9to5google.com. They’ve teased a refreshed design that continues Nothing’s signature transparent aesthetic. A close-up teaser image shows a stem with an indented touch area, suggesting improved tactile controls for volume and playback 9to5google.com. While details are scarce pre-launch, expectations are that Ear (3) will build on the Ear (2)’s strengths: likely featuring adaptive ANC, 11.6 mm drivers (Ear 2 had that size), LHDC codec support for hi-res audio, and maybe spatial audio. Nothing might also up the game with longer battery life or dual connections, responding to competition. Price hasn’t been announced, but given Ear (2) was $149, Ear (3) will likely be in the $150-$170 range – undercutting the big names while offering premium features. Nothing has been busy in 2025 (releasing multiple phones and even over-ear headphones), so Ear (3) comes at a time the brand has some momentum. Fans of unique design will want to check these out – by the looks of it, “the design does look subtly different… with an indented plastic space for better feel when using controls” 9to5google.com. We’ll know more after Sept 18, but they could be a compelling alternative for those not tied to Apple/Google/Samsung.
• Sony WF-1000XM6: Sony’s WF-1000X series has long been a top contender in noise-cancelling earbuds (the XM5 won awards for class-leading ANC and sound). The WF-1000XM6 are highly anticipated, with rumors pointing to a launch in late 2025 (possibly August or autumn) digitaltrends.com digitaltrends.com. Sony typically refreshes this line every two years, and since XM5 came July 2023, many expected XM6 in summer 2025. Indeed, import filings spotted in May hinted that the new model (code “YY2985”) was in the works, suggesting the “XM6’s arrival is nigh” digitaltrends.com digitaltrends.com. However, as of September 2025 Sony has not officially launched them, leading some analysts to speculate it might slip to early 2026. What can we expect? Likely, incremental but meaningful upgrades: possibly even better ANC (to reclaim the throne if Apple snatched it), improved battery life over the XM5’s 8 hours, and perhaps new smart features like head gesture control (Sony often follows industry trends). Design-wise, leaks suggest a similar shape and size to the XM5 (which is good, as XM5 were 20% smaller than XM4) digitaltrends.com digitaltrends.com. There might be new colors (Sony introduced a silver option with XM5, maybe a blue or green this time). The XM6 will likely continue with hi-res audio support (LDAC codec), Sony’s 3D Reality Audio, and multipoint (the XM5 finally added multipoint). Price is expected to be around the same as XM5: $299 (the XM5 launched at $299) digitaltrends.com. Some estimates say Sony might go $300-$330, but to stay competitive with Bose and Apple, $300 is likely digitaltrends.com digitaltrends.com. If the XM6 do drop, they will instantly be in the conversation for best overall earbuds given Sony’s track record (the XM5 are still among the best). Tech fans should watch for an announcement perhaps aligned with CES 2026 if 2025 passes by. Digital Trends even billed them as “potentially the biggest wireless earbuds release of 2025” digitaltrends.com digitaltrends.com – time will tell if they arrive before year’s end.
• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (3rd Gen): Bose released the QuietComfort Earbuds II in late 2022, and followed up with a slight refresh named QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds in 2023 (mostly adding spatial audio). It’s possible Bose will have a new model by late 2025 or 2026 – perhaps a QuietComfort Earbuds III. Bose tends not to update yearly, so this is speculative. But Bose did recently update their over-ear (QC45 to QC Ultra headphones), so an earbuds update may wait until 2026. When it comes, expect Bose to double down on their strength: top-notch ANC (Bose held the ANC crown until Sony/Apple raised the bar), and improve things like size (QC Earbuds II were a bit chunky) and battery life. No strong rumors are out yet, but Bose fans can hope for hints in 2026.
• Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 / Buds4 Pro: A report suggests Samsung might skip a major earbud release in 2025 and plan the next flagship “Buds 4 Pro” to launch alongside Galaxy S26 in early 2026 phonearena.com phonearena.com. Given Buds3 Pro came in mid-2024, a two-year cadence would mean mid-2026. Instead, Samsung filled 2025 with the mid-range Buds 3 and Buds 3 FE (the Buds3 Pro’s design trickled down to cheaper models) techradar.com. So, if you’re a Samsung user, Buds3 Pro remains the top choice through 2025. But keep an eye on rumors in late 2025 – if Buds4 or Buds4 Pro are in development, leaks might start (with possible features like further improved battery, lossless audio over Bluetooth LE Audio, etc.).

In the broader landscape, other brands likely to introduce new buds in 2025/26 include Jabra (following up their Elite 10 series), Sennheiser (Momentum True Wireless 4 launched in 2022, so maybe an MTW5 around 2025), and possibly Apple AirPods (4th Gen non-Pro) if Apple chooses to update their regular AirPods in 2025. Also noteworthy, as Apple and Google add health sensors to earbuds, we might see more of that: brands like JBL or Amazfit could try heart-rate or temperature sensors in earbuds too.

For now, the Nothing Ear (3) launch is the nearest on the calendar – and it underscores how even smaller players are pushing innovation (Nothing has teased improved touch controls and likely will aim for a mix of style and high-end specs at a mid-range price) 9to5google.com. Meanwhile, Sony’s WF-1000XM6 loom as the next big flagship to shake up the competition whenever they drop – likely with an industry-leading combo of ANC and audio quality given Sony’s history. If you’re not in urgent need of new earbuds, it could be worth waiting to see how these upcoming entries perform. The good news: competition is fierce, which means companies are racing to outdo each other in sound, features, and comfort – a win for consumers ready to enjoy the next generation of wireless audio.

Conclusion

Apple, Google, and Samsung have each crafted a compelling pair of wireless earbuds tailored to their strengths. AirPods Pro (3rd Gen) deliver a masterclass in noise cancellation and integrate so tightly with Apple’s world that they become an extension of your iPhone and Watch – now even doubling as a fitness and translation tool apple.com techcrunch.com. Pixel Buds Pro 2 leverage Google’s AI know-how to offer arguably the smartest earbuds experience on Android – with rich sound and beefy battery life to boot store.google.com store.google.com. Galaxy Buds3 Pro push hardware boundaries with dual drivers and flashy features, making them the hi-tech choice for Galaxy aficionados who want style and substance (those Blade Lights certainly turn heads) techradar.com techradar.com.

Choosing between them ultimately comes down to your ecosystem and feature priorities. iPhone users will find AirPods Pro 3 hard to beat for convenience and new capabilities, while Android users can delight in the Pixel Buds Pro 2’s comfort and Google integration. Samsung users have a true gem in the Buds3 Pro, especially if hi-res audio and a stem design appeal. All three nails the fundamentals – excellent sound, effective ANC, and comfortable fit – yet each has its unique flavor: Apple’s is polished and user-friendly, Google’s is clever and adaptive, Samsung’s is bold and feature-rich.

What’s clear is that wireless earbuds in 2025 are not just about listening to music – they’re about smarter listening. Whichever you pick, you’ll be getting a glimpse of the future where earbuds enhance how we hear the world and even how we interact with it. The era of “just Bluetooth headphones” is behind us; today’s top earbuds are fitness coaches, AI assistants, noise shields, and hi-fi speakers all at once. It’s an exciting time for audio – and whether you’re team AirPods, Pixel Buds, or Galaxy Buds, there’s never been a better selection of top-tier options to choose from. Enjoy the music (and the silence when you need it), and happy listening!

Sources: Apple Newsroom apple.com apple.com; The Verge theverge.com theverge.com; MacRumors macrumors.com macrumors.com; Google Store store.google.com store.google.com; SoundGuys soundguys.com; TechRadar techradar.com techradar.com; Rtings rtings.com rtings.com; Gizmodo gizmodo.com gizmodo.com; TechCrunch techcrunch.com techcrunch.com; 9to5Google 9to5google.com; Digital Trends digitaltrends.com digitaltrends.com.