Android users without Samsung phones can still access most of the features using the Galaxy Wearable app, except for the Samsung Seamless Codec and the Samsung auto device switching. They even give their main competitor, Google’s Pixel Buds Pro ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends), a run for their money.

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It's nice to get some pro features like those on the AirPods Pro, which come with spatial audio support that works with iOS.

While the kick and bass guitar play at a prominent volume, it sounds okay, especially if you like more bass-driven mixes.

Samsung has confirmed to us that the Buds 2 Pro support 24-bit/48kHz audio at a data rate of 584kbps. Next, Galaxy Z Fold4, first seen folded and from the side, then it twirls to be seen from the front Cover Screen. With an IPX2 rating, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 is merely splash-resistant compared to the very water-resistant Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and its IPX7 rating.

The controls are accurate but also can be a tad over-sensitive – we accidentally paused our music a few times when brushing against the buds. A surcharge equal to the amount of the discount you received will apply if you do not recycle or have your product ready for recycling. Auto Switch feature for Samsung TV is only available on Samsung TVs launched Feb ’22 or later after getting a firmware update from Jul ’22. Only one touch control can be customized, and even then, the extent you can customize it is hamstrung to one “type” of command. When compared to the most recent Google Pixel Buds Pro, which can pair to multiple devices made by different manufacturers at once, Samsung's new multipoint Bluetooth offering feels a bit less pro.Where the Buds 2 Pro shine is with 360 audio, where the impression of sound surrounding us from all directions is keenly felt with Dolby Atmos tracks. By the way, 16-bit audio is fine, but Samsung has advertised 24-bit audio, and going through Developer Settings in Android, it defaults to 16-bit/sample and won’t change to 24-bit. Having a widget on the home screen of your device at least makes it slightly easier to access ANC, Ambient, or normal mode. What’s handy is that you can turn off all touch controls entirely in the Wearable app to counteract this.

Not having a choice feels like the theme of the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, even when you can access the app. The headphones sound energetic but not muddy, a clear soundstage that's aided by above-average noise canceling.Of course, any comparison with other brands invites the inevitable Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) mention.