Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro vs. Bose QuietComfort Ultra: Testing Reveals the Winner

The competitive landscape of true wireless earbuds is heating up, particularly between the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen. Both brands have carved out strong reputations in audio technology, and their latest offerings reflect advancements in sound and user experience. Below is a comprehensive comparison of these flagship earbuds across various categories, helping consumers make informed decisions.

Price Comparison

Pricing is often a key factor in the decision-making process. The Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro retail for $249 in the U.S. and £219 in the U.K. In contrast, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen is priced at $299 in the U.S. and £299 in the U.K. This makes the Galaxy Buds more affordable by $50, thereby giving Samsung an early edge in this matchup.

Design

When it comes to design, subjective preference plays a large role. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen features a pebble shape with a shorter stem, tailored for inside-ear comfort. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro adopt a more pronounced stem style. Both designs have their merits, with Bose appealing to those who prefer a more discreet look, while Samsung may be better suited for users with smaller ears due to its compact size.

Features and Connectivity

• Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro: Featuring Bluetooth 6.1, seamless Bixby integration, and additional AI capabilities, these earbuds offer functionalities like live translation.
• Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen: Equipped with Bluetooth 5.3, these earbuds provide useful immersive audio modes and multipoint connectivity across devices.

While Samsung’s features cater more towards users within its ecosystem, Bose ensures compatibility across both iOS and Android platforms, making it a more versatile option.

Sound Quality

Both the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen showcase impressive sound quality. Each delivers a bass-heavy sound signature that resonates well across different genres. Listeners can expect powerful and clear audio, rendering complex soundscapes effectively. However, Bose has a slight edge when it comes to instrument separation and clarity, especially with dynamic tracks.

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

Bose has long been renowned for its noise cancellation technology, and the QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen continues this tradition. While the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro provide commendable ANC performance, Bose’s capabilities remain the benchmark in the industry, making it the winner in this category.

Battery Life

Battery duration is essential for long listening sessions. The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro boast a time of 7 hours on a single charge, extending to 30 hours in the case. In comparison, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen offers 6 hours per charge, with a total of 24 hours with the case. Therefore, Samsung takes this round with superior battery performance.

Call Quality

Call quality is another critical aspect for users. The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro enable excellent call clarity, especially when paired with recent Samsung smartphones. However, Bose’s noise isolation effectively enhances voice clarity, making call experiences enjoyable. This round concludes as a tie due to the strong performance from both brands.

Final Verdict

Choosing between the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen ultimately depends on user preference. If you prioritize advanced tech features and superior battery life, Samsung is the clear choice. However, if audio quality and industry-leading noise cancellation are your top priorities, Bose remains the stronger option. The decision should align with personal needs and compatible devices.