Galaxy Buds 3 FE vs Galaxy Buds 3: Samsung has now once again widened its audio line with the coming of the Galaxy Buds 3 FE, established as the most affordable option to the premium Galaxy Buds 3 line. While the standard Galaxy Buds 3 are marketed as the thinner and more premium option, the Buds 3 FE strike a balance between price and functional features that most customers will appreciate. The dilemma now is how much to spend on the Buds 3 or go cheap with the Buds 3 FE. Let’s break it down.
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Design and Comfort
Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 3 FE both incorporate Samsung’s new stem-type design inspired by Apple’s AirPods family. But the big difference is that the Buds 3 feature an open-type design similar to AirPods 3, whereas the Buds 3 FE feature silicone eartips similar to the AirPods Pro. The open-ear design may be more natural to some ears, but it ends up having a poor fit. On the other hand, silicone tips help create a snug seal, making the Buds 3 FE more comfortable for extended wear and better suited for active users. This design choice alone makes the FE model more versatile.
Noise Isolation
The design difference also directly impacts sound performance. With the open-type Buds 3, audio bleed is noticeable, meaning people nearby may hear your music at higher volumes. Despite Samsung bringing Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to the Buds 3, the performance is not as consistent as it is with the FE model. Thanks to its silicone tips, the Buds 3 FE not only offers more consistent ANC but also passive noise blocking. Even when ANC is turned off, the Buds 3 FE can operate like regular earplugs by covering your ear canal, something that the Buds 3 aren’t even capable of.
Battery Life
Battery life is one more aspect in which Galaxy Buds 3 FE trumps the standard Buds 3. The FE version offers a maximum of 30 hours of total playback via the charging case (ANC off) and around 8.5 hours from the earbuds. In contrast, the Buds 3 offer about 20 hours total with 6 hours of playtime from the earbuds themselves. Even if ANC is enabled, the Buds 3 FE possess better endurance, making the latter a more practical option for lengthy commutes or extended playback sessions.
Value for Money
The Galaxy Buds 3 FE’s biggest selling point would probably be their price. The Buds 3 FE are priced as low as ₹9,999 in India, while the Galaxy Buds 3 cost ₹14,999. Both are commonly retailed at about $149 worldwide, like in the U.S., because the Buds 3 are often discounted frequently. The FE model is a better choice for people who prioritize fit, noise isolation, and longer battery life. Those seeking open-ear comfort and relatively warmer audio tuning may prefer the Buds 3, but the FE’s cost is a savvy buy for most users.
Verdict
In the end, the Galaxy Buds 3 FE offer a better balance of features and cost. With their comfortable fit, better ANC, all-day battery life, and more affordable price, they offer an experience equal to the standard Buds 3 at a much lower price. Unless you’re especially fond of the open design of the Buds 3, the Galaxy Buds 3 FE are the way to go for mere mortals.