Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 vs. 2 Pro – Should I upgrade to the Pro version?

Wireless headphones are one of the devices we like the most from Samsung. Therefore, whenever it expands its catalog, we test and analyze each new model in detail. This allows us to know if it is worth updating from the previous version or, on the contrary, the differences are not important enough to do so. In this comparison, we compare two of the best-selling wireless headphones of the moment: Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 vs 2 Pro.

The first thing we notice is that the price of the Buds 2 Pro is somewhat higher than that of the Buds 2, and this can give us an idea of ​​where the shots are going. Both earbuds have 3 microphones each (6 total), but the Buds 2 Pro have high signal-to-noise ratio microphones. Basically, this means that the clarity of the sound coming through the Buds 2 Pro is higher than the Buds 2.

Another difference to take into account is the resistance to external agents. In this sense, the Buds 2 are certified with an IPX2 level, compared to the IPX7 of the Buds 2 Pro. It is easy to understand that the latter have more tolerance to splashes of water. Furthermore, although the autonomy of the headphones is the same, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro case has a larger capacity battery and, therefore, offers a little more autonomy.

That said, we are going to take a detailed look at the differences and similarities we have outlined to help you choose which Samsung wireless headphones to get. Do not miss it!

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 vs 2 Pro – Comparison Table

Below, we reflect the most relevant characteristics of Samsung wireless headphones, so you can check which one best fits what you are looking for:

A less shiny design

We are not referring to the design of the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro being worse, but rather to the fact that it is the first time, after several models, that Samsung has opted for a matte finish instead of a glossy one. This is really the only difference from an aesthetic point of view.

Otherwise, they are two very similar headphones, made up of a main bulb and without the classic temples that we do see on the AirPods. The Galaxy Buds 2 are also available in green, but in other respects, they are very similar. In addition, it is possible to choose between 3 sizes of ear tips (S, M and L), depending on the one that best suits your ear.

Which ones have the best sound?

In general terms, Samsung has improved the quality and clarity of the sound in the Buds 2 Pro, but we must explain why. Both have a total of 6 microphones, 3 on each earbud. The difference is that the microphones of the Buds 2 Pro have a high signal-to-noise ratio, which means that the microphone’s own and internal noises interfere less with those you hear, which makes the sound clearer. And, above all, the difference in sound quality is noticeable in the bass, which is heard more clearly in the Buds 2 Pro.

In addition, it should be noted that both headphones have active noise cancellation, ambient mode and spatial audio, but only the Buds 2 Pro have an equalizer. This component also helps improve the clarity of the sound, because the range of frequencies it can capture and transform is higher. Likewise, in both cases we see a dual-way speaker unit, made up of a tweeter and a woofer.

The battery in the case is the one that varies

Both the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 and the Buds 2 Pro allow wireless charging, since they have a case that, in addition to storing them, is used to charge them. And, in fact, it is the only difference in terms of autonomy between both models, you will see why. The capacity of the headphones’ own battery is, in both cases, 61 mAh. That is, both are designed to last approximately 5 hours if we activate noise cancellation.

On the other hand, the battery capacity of the two cases is not the same, it is somewhat higher in the Buds 2 Pro case. This has 515 mAh capacity, compared to the 472 mAh battery in the Buds case. 2. Therefore, the Buds 2 Pro case offers about three more hours of autonomy in total, going from 15 additional hours to 18.

Water resistance level

One of the characteristics that can help you decide which wireless headphones to choose is the degree of resistance they have to external agents, especially water. The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 have an IPX2 rating, while the Buds 2 Pro are certified IPX7. Taking into account that the maximum level of water resistance is 8, we see that the Buds 2 Pro withstand splashes much better without breaking. Now, none are designed to be used underwater.

Additional features: voice detection and touch controls

We come to another of the additional features that we find only in the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, voice detection. Voice Detect technology allows the headphones to detect when you start talking and then switch from noise cancellation mode to ambient mode so you can listen to the conversation without removing the headphones. On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 do not have this functionality, but only integrate a voice assistant. It is, therefore, a feature that translates into more comfort for the user.

If we look at the touch controls, it should be noted that the two wireless headphones allow you to perform some functions just by clicking on them. However, the Galaxy Buds 2 are more sensitive than the Buds 2 Pro, which makes it easier for us to make mistakes.

Compatibility with other devices

Before we finish, let us tell you that both the Galaxy Buds 2 and the Buds 2 Pro can connect with other devices. In the first case, these must be Android 7.0 or higher. In the second case, compatibility requires Android version 8.0 or later. Even so, both headphones have Auto Switch, a function that makes it easier to switch from one device to another.

Which Samsung wireless headphones are worth the most?

This is the big question that arises when comparing both models. The answer is the same as most of the time: it depends on what you’re looking for. Honestly, it seems to us that the economic difference between both headphones is not very high, and this makes us pay more attention to the differences . The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro surpass the Buds 2 in most features, although not with a huge difference.

This is the case of the autonomy provided by the charging case, the greater water resistance, the presence of the equalizer or the improvement in sound quality and clarity thanks to the microphones. Overall, the performance of the Buds 2 Pro is higher, and if you don’t have either model, we would recommend opting for them. But if you already have the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2, is it worth upgrading to the Buds 2 Pro? We think not.

If the differences between them were more pronounced, we would consider it. But, being two wireless headphones from the same brand and the same range, they do not seem enough to us. That being said, think about what your requirements, needs and limitations are and make the best decision based on them.