Unboxing the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro
When you first open the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro box, you’ll find the earbuds themselves nestled securely in the lower section. Above them, you’ll see the included accessories. Let’s take a closer look inside:
- Cables and Quick Start Guide: The charging cable and quick start guide are easily accessible.
- Ear Tips: The ear tips are found in the middle section of the cable packaging. There are two additional sizes included, and the default ear tips are already attached to the earbuds.
Ear Tip Handling Caution
It’s crucial to be careful when handling the ear tips. When removing them, grasp the solid part of the ear tip rather than the rubber portion to avoid tearing. Unfortunately, the ear tips on the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro can be fragile. Here’s a safer method: twist the ear tip gently with your fingers and then pull it out. This method is less likely to damage the ear tips compared to pulling them straight out.
Even though the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro’s ear tips are supposed to be durable, I found that they can tear easily, even with careful handling. It’s important to note that the ear tips should be replaced correctly to prevent damage.
Comparing the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro
For comparison, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro did not have this issue. The material seemed sturdier, and even after some rough handling, they remained intact. Unfortunately, the new model’s ear tips are more susceptible to damage. This is an important consideration for those who frequently change ear tips.
Earbuds Case and Height Differences
Another aspect to check is the fit of the earbuds in the charging case. When I placed my silver Galaxy Buds 3 Pro in the case, both earbuds fit snugly and evenly. However, the white model I received showed a slight height difference between the left and right earbuds. This minor discrepancy is noticeable, but it doesn’t significantly affect the usage.
Community Feedback
I’m not the only one experiencing these issues. Several users have reported similar problems in online communities. Therefore, it’s a good idea to inspect your earbuds for any such discrepancies. Some users have found that the charging contacts inside the case may be slightly misaligned, which can cause these fit issues.
Addressing Quality Control Issues
In response to these quality control concerns, Samsung issued an official notice on July 19, acknowledging the issues and offering exchanges or refunds for affected customers. They have committed to thoroughly inspecting all units before the official launch on July 24 to prevent such issues from recurring.
Using the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro
Despite these initial issues, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro offer excellent performance and comfort. Here’s a detailed review of their features:
Comfort and Fit
One of the standout features of the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro is their improved fit and comfort. I wore them for a 12-hour flight and found them to be extremely comfortable, even with prolonged use. The new design significantly enhances the wearing experience.
Noise Cancellation
The noise cancellation (ANC) has also improved. During a noisy event, the earbuds effectively reduced background noise, including human voices. The ANC works well in various environments, such as cafes and crowded places. However, there’s a slight delay when the ANC kicks in, which can be felt if the earbuds shift in your ears.
Ambient Sound Mode
The ambient sound mode has become more natural and seamless. In spacious indoor settings, it almost feels like you’re not wearing earbuds at all. However, in environments with repetitive noises like air conditioners or fans, the sound can become amplified in an unnatural way.
Real-Time Translation
A surprising feature is the real-time translation capability, which I tested during an English conference. The translation was quite effective, with a delay of about 3 to 5 seconds, making it useful for following the gist of conversations.
Call Quality
The call quality is exceptional. Even in noisy outdoor environments, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro managed to provide clear and crisp audio during calls, outperforming many other wireless earbuds.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro deliver a balanced and enjoyable audio experience. High frequencies are clear and smooth, while the bass is punchy but not overwhelming. This makes them suitable for various music genres and audio preferences.
Inserting the Earbuds into the Case
A handy tip for easily placing the earbuds back in their case: slightly tilt the stem of the earbuds and insert them into the case. This technique ensures they fit snugly without any fuss.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Overall, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro offer impressive features and performance. However, the quality control issues with the ear tips and case fit are notable drawbacks. Samsung has acknowledged these issues and is taking steps to address them.
If you’ve recently purchased the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro or are considering buying them, make sure to check for these potential issues and handle the ear tips with care. Despite these challenges, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro remain a top choice for their comfort, sound quality, and advanced features.