Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 vs Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE

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

For most buyers the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 is the better pick — it scores 72/100 to the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE's 64, leading on Audio and Battery. Choose the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE instead if noise cancelling matters 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 leads overall

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE

Why it stands out

Build IP Rating: IP57
Build Weight per Earbud: 4.7 g (6% less)

Winner by category for Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 vs Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE
Category	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE	Winner
Audio	96	4	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3
Noise Cancelling	53	89	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE
Battery	61	42	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3
Connectivity	85	85	Tie
Calls	85	85	Tie
Build	75	64	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3

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

The Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 are open-style true wireless earbuds designed primarily for everyday audio playback and voice communication. They feature an updated stem-based form factor that departs from earlier rounded Galaxy Buds designs, catering to users who prefer a lighter fit without deep ear-canal insertion.

Best for Casual audio listening while maintaining situational awareness of surrounding enBest for Users looking for an open-ear design optimized for the Samsung Galaxy mobile eco

Pros

Open-fit design provides a comfortable experience for long listening sessions without ear pressure
Stem structure positions microphones closer to the mouth for voice capture during calls

Cons

Unsealed open-style fit inherently allows more ambient sound to enter compared to silicone-tipped earbuds

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

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

Enter today's price for each product to see which offers better value. Use the same currency for both.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3

Check Price on Amazon

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE

Check Price on Amazon

Physical Comparison

Weight, side by side

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3

46.5g

Weight

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE

41.8g

Weight

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3

4.7g

Weight

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE

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	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE
Driver Type	N/A	Dynamic
Driver Size	11 mm	N/A
Frequency Response	N/A	N/A
Spatial Audio with Head Tracking	Yes	No

Noise Cancelling

Feature	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE
Active Noise Cancelling	Yes	Yes
Transparency Mode	No	Yes

Battery

Feature	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE
Battery Life per Charge	5 h	6 h20% more
Total Battery Life with Case	24 h	24 h
Quick Charge	Yes	N/A
Wireless Charging Case	Yes	No

Connectivity

Feature	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE
Bluetooth Version
Supported Codecs	SBC, AAC, SSC, SSC UHQ	SBC, AAC, SSC
Multipoint Connection	N/A	N/A

Calls

Feature	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE
Microphones per Earbud	3	3

Build

Feature	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE
IP Rating
Weight per Earbud	4.7 g6% less	5 g
Case Weight	46.5 g	41.8 g10% less

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 vs Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 rates higher at 73/100 versus 67/100 for Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE — a 6-point lead. Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 and Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE 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 73/100 for Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 and 67/100 for Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE.

If you want the higher-rated earbuds option overall, Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 (73/100) edges out Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE (67/100). But if Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.