Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE vs Nothing Ear (open)

Updated Nov 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score

For most buyers the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE is the better pick — it scores 72/100 to the Nothing Ear (open)'s 66, leading on Audio and Noise Cancelling. Choose the Nothing Ear (open) instead if battery and connectivity matter most to you, where it comes out ahead.

Sound quality isn't scored yet (we have no measured audio data), so the score covers features, battery, noise cancelling and build.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE leads overall

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE

Nothing Ear (open)

Why it stands out

Connectivity Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.4
Build Weight per Earbud: 5 g (38% less)
Build Case Weight: 41.8 g (34% less)

Winner by category for Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE vs Nothing Ear (open)
Category	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE	Nothing Ear (open)	Winner
Audio	30	0	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE
Noise Cancelling	100	0	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE
Battery	40	66	Nothing Ear (open)
Connectivity	86	91	Nothing Ear (open)
Calls	100	0	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE
Build	70	38	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE

In-depth analysisAI

AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Nov 2026.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE

The Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE (model SM-R420) are wireless earbuds positioned as a cost-effective alternative within Samsung's third-generation audio lineup. They feature an updated stem design, modern Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, and active noise cancellation. Serving as the successor to the original Galaxy Buds FE, this model integrates Samsung's Galaxy AI ecosystem features at a launch price of $149.99.

Best for Samsung ecosystem users seeking active noise cancellation and AI features at a l

Pros

Equipped with active noise cancellation and Galaxy AI integration
Updated with modern Bluetooth 5.4 wireless connectivity
Redesigned stem structure for improved wear and accessibility

Cons

Higher launch price of $149.99 compared to typical budget-tier entry options

Source

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 - WikipediaProvided model number SM-R420, release date, $149.99 pricing, Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, stem design, and core feature set including ANC and Galaxy AI.

Video — reviews used (3)

Generated Nov 3, 2026

Nothing Ear (open)

The Nothing Ear (open) is a pair of open-style wireless earbuds engineered for active users who need to remain aware of their environment. Incorporating Nothing's signature transparent aesthetic with silicone ear hooks, the earbuds offer up to 30 hours of total playback time using the included case. At a price of $99, they prioritize physical stability and situational safety over audio isolation.

Best for Outdoor running and exercising where situational awareness is criticalBest for Users seeking lightweight, hook-based earbuds for secure wear during workouts

Pros

Open-ear design maintains full awareness of external surroundings
Silicone ear hooks provide a secure and lightweight fit during athletic movement
Offers up to 30 hours of total battery life with the charging case

Cons

Open sound architecture does not isolate external noise or provide noise cancellation

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

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Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE

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Nothing Ear (open)

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Physical Comparison

Weight, side by side

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE

41.8g

Weight

Nothing Ear (open)

63.8g

Weight

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE

Weight

Nothing Ear (open)

8.1g

Weight

Review Videos

Hand-picked expert reviews for each product

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Audio

Feature	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE	Nothing Ear (open)
Driver Type	Dynamic	Dynamic
Driver Size	N/A	14.2 mm
Frequency Response	N/A	N/A
Spatial Audio with Head Tracking	No	N/A

Noise Cancelling

Feature	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE	Nothing Ear (open)
Active Noise Cancelling	Yes	N/A
Transparency Mode	Yes	N/A

Battery

Feature	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE	Nothing Ear (open)
Battery Life per Charge	6 h	8 h33% more
Total Battery Life with Case	24 h	30 h25% more
Quick Charge	N/A	Yes
Wireless Charging Case	No	No

Connectivity

Feature	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE	Nothing Ear (open)
Bluetooth Version
Supported Codecs	SBC, AAC, SSC	SBC, AAC
Multipoint Connection	N/A	Yes

Calls

Feature	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE	Nothing Ear (open)
Microphones per Earbud	3	N/A

Build

Feature	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE	Nothing Ear (open)
IP Rating
Weight per Earbud	5 g38% less	8.1 g
Case Weight	41.8 g34% less	63.8 g

Specification Note

Specifications are compiled from official manufacturer data and other reliable internet sources. Some features may vary by region or model configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE vs Nothing Ear (open) comparison

They are closely matched: Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE scores 69/100 and Nothing Ear (open) scores 67/100 in our overall comparison — within 2 points. Neither is a clear winner overall, so the decision comes down to the specific features and price that matter most to you.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE and Nothing Ear (open) are compared side by side above across every spec in the earbuds category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 69/100 for Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE and 67/100 for Nothing Ear (open).

It's close — Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE (69/100) and Nothing Ear (open) (67/100) score almost the same. Pick based on price and the individual specs that matter most to you; the comparison above shows where each one pulls ahead.