Samsung Galaxy Buds 2: Review, Price & Deals
Overview
Are you in the market for a new pair of wireless earbuds that offer a blend of impressive sound quality, comfortable fit, and useful features, all at a reasonable price point here in Kenya? Look no further than the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2. These earbuds have quickly become a favorite among audio enthusiasts and everyday users alike. Let’s dive into a comprehensive review, exploring their key specifications, comparing them to competitors, and understanding why they might be the perfect audio companion for you.
Unveiling the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2: A Comprehensive Review
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 are designed to deliver a premium audio experience without breaking the bank. As wireless earbuds become increasingly essential for our daily lives, the Galaxy Buds 2 stand out with their balanced sound, active noise cancellation (ANC), and sleek design. Whether you're commuting in Nairobi's bustling streets, working from home, or hitting the gym, these earbuds promise to provide an immersive and distraction-free listening experience.
Why Choose the Galaxy Buds 2?
In a market flooded with options, the Galaxy Buds 2 distinguish themselves through a combination of factors. The first is sound quality. The earbuds are engineered to offer rich bass, clear mids, and crisp highs, ensuring that every genre of music sounds great. Secondly, the effective ANC blocks out ambient noise, allowing you to focus on what matters most. Finally, the compact and ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions. These features, combined with seamless integration with Samsung devices, make the Galaxy Buds 2 a compelling choice.
A Closer Look at Key Features
From active noise cancellation to impressive battery life, the Galaxy Buds 2 are packed with features that enhance the user experience. The intuitive touch controls make it easy to manage your music and calls, while the customizable EQ settings allow you to tailor the sound to your preferences. Furthermore, the Galaxy Buds 2 offer excellent call quality, thanks to the advanced microphone system that reduces background noise during calls. All of these attributes come together to make these earbuds a versatile and reliable option for anyone seeking a high-quality wireless audio solution.
In this review, we'll delve deeper into these aspects, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision about purchasing the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 in Kenya. We'll also compare them to other popular earbuds in the market, highlight the best deals available, and address frequently asked questions to ensure you have all the facts at your fingertips. Stay tuned to discover why the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 might just be your next favorite tech gadget.
Specifications
GENERAL
| Product Name | Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 |
|---|---|
| Release Date | August 2021 |
| Weight | 5.0 grams per earbud |
| Water Resistance | IPX2 |
| Colors | Graphite, White, Olive, Lavender |
AUDIO
| Driver Size | 11mm Woofer, 6.3mm Tweeter |
|---|---|
| Microphones | Three per earbud |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Yes |
| Ambient Sound Mode | Yes |
| Audio Codecs | SBC, AAC, SSC |
BATTERY
| Earbud Battery Life | 5 hours (ANC on), 7.5 hours (ANC off) |
|---|---|
| Case Battery Life | 20 hours (ANC on), 29 hours (ANC off) |
| Charging Time | 1 hour for full charge |
| Wireless Charging | Yes (Qi-compatible) |
| Charging Port | USB Type-C |
CONNECTIVITY
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.2 |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth Profiles | A2DP, AVRCP, HFP |
| Multipoint Connection | No |
| Samsung Seamless Codec | Yes |
| Auto Switch | Yes (Samsung devices) |
FEATURES
| Touch Controls | Yes |
|---|---|
| Voice Assistant | Bixby (Samsung), Google Assistant |
| Wearing Detection | Yes |
| Ear Tip Sizes | Small, Medium, Large |
| Samsung Galaxy Wearable App | Yes |
DESIGN
| Earbud Shape | In-ear |
|---|---|
| Finish | Glossy |
| Case Material | Plastic |
| Case Dimensions | 50 x 50.2 x 27.8 mm |
| Case Weight | 41.2 grams |
SOUND QUALITY
| Bass Response | Enhanced |
|---|---|
| Treble Clarity | Clear |
| Sound Isolation | Excellent with ANC |
| Spatial Audio | No |
| Call Quality | Clear and noise-free |
COMPATIBILITY
| Android | Yes |
|---|---|
| iOS | Yes (limited features) |
| Windows | Yes |
| macOS | Yes |
| Samsung Devices | Optimized integration |
NOISE CANCELLATION
| ANC Effectiveness | Up to 98% reduction |
|---|---|
| Ambient Mode Levels | Adjustable |
| Wind Noise Reduction | Yes |
| Transparency Mode | Yes |
| ANC Algorithm | Machine Learning based |
IN THE BOX
| Earbuds | Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 |
|---|---|
| Charging Case | Yes |
| Ear Tips | Multiple sizes |
| USB Cable | USB Type-C |
| Quick Start Guide | Yes |
Compare related product
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Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 | Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro | Samsung Galaxy Buds Live | Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) | Sony WF-1000XM4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Release Date | August 2021 | January 2021 | August 2020 | October 2021 | June 2021 |
| Price (Approx. in Kenya) | Ksh 15,000 | Ksh 25,000 | Ksh 20,000 | Ksh 22,000 | Ksh 30,000 |
| Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Ambient Sound Mode | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Driver Size | 11mm Woofer, 6.3mm Tweeter | 11mm Woofer, 6.5mm Tweeter | 12mm | Custom High-Excursion Apple Driver | 6mm |
| Microphones | 3 per earbud | 3 per earbud | 3 per earbud | Dual beamforming microphones | Dual Noise Sensor microphones |
| Water Resistance | IPX2 | IPX7 | IPX2 | IPX4 | IPX4 |
| Battery Life (Earbuds) | 5 hours (ANC on), 7.5 hours (ANC off) | 5 hours (ANC on), 8 hours (ANC off) | 6 hours (ANC on), 8 hours (ANC off) | 6 hours | 8 hours (ANC on), 12 hours (ANC off) |
| Battery Life (With Case) | 20 hours (ANC on), 29 hours (ANC off) | 18 hours (ANC on), 28 hours (ANC off) | 21 hours | 30 hours | 24 hours (ANC on), 36 hours (ANC off) |
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Audio Codecs | SBC, AAC, SSC | SBC, AAC, SSC | SBC, AAC | AAC-ELD | SBC, AAC, LDAC |
| Voice Assistant | Bixby, Google Assistant | Bixby, Google Assistant | Bixby | Siri | Google Assistant, Alexa |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Multipoint Connection | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Spatial Audio | No | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Wearing Detection | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ear Tip Sizes | S, M, L | S, M, L | N/A (Bean-shaped design) | N/A (One size fits most) | S, M, L |
| Colors Available | Graphite, White, Olive, Lavender | Phantom Black, Phantom Silver, White, Violet | Mystic Bronze, Mystic White, Mystic Black | White | Black, Silver |
| Samsung Seamless Codec | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Auto Switch | Yes (Samsung devices) | Yes (Samsung devices) | Yes (Samsung devices) | Yes (Apple devices) | No |
| Call Quality | Clear and noise-free | Clear and noise-free | Good | Excellent | Excellent |
| Design | In-ear | In-ear | Bean-shaped | Open-fit | In-ear |
| Weight (per earbud) | 5.0g | 6.3g | 5.6g | 4.28g | 7.3g |
| App Support | Samsung Galaxy Wearable App | Samsung Galaxy Wearable App | Samsung Galaxy Wearable App | iOS | Sony Headphones Connect |
| Special Features | Compact design, good ANC for price | 360 Audio, Voice Detect | Unique design, comfortable fit | Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking | Speak-to-Chat, Precise Voice Pickup |
Benefit
Why should you, a Kenyan resident looking for the best audio experience, consider the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2? These earbuds are more than just a gadget; they are an investment in your daily comfort and convenience. Imagine navigating the bustling streets of Nairobi, completely immersed in your favorite music or podcast, without the distractions of matatu noise or street vendors. The Galaxy Buds 2 make this a reality with their impressive Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) feature.
Benefits of Owning the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2
One of the primary advantages of the Galaxy Buds 2 is their ability to enhance your focus. Whether you're studying for exams at the University of Nairobi, working remotely from a café in Westlands, or trying to relax at home, the ANC effectively blocks out ambient noise, allowing you to concentrate on the task at hand. This means higher productivity, reduced stress, and a more enjoyable listening experience.
Furthermore, the Galaxy Buds 2 are designed for comfort. The lightweight and ergonomic design ensures a snug fit, making them perfect for long listening sessions. This is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy listening to music during their daily commutes or while exercising at local gyms. You won't have to worry about the earbuds falling out or causing discomfort, even during rigorous activities.
Another significant benefit is the seamless integration with Samsung devices. If you already own a Samsung smartphone or tablet, the Galaxy Buds 2 offer a hassle-free pairing experience and additional features like Auto Switch, which allows you to effortlessly switch between devices. However, they are also compatible with other Android and iOS devices, ensuring that you can enjoy their benefits regardless of your smartphone brand.
Lastly, the Galaxy Buds 2 offer excellent value for money. Compared to other premium earbuds on the market, they provide a compelling combination of features, performance, and affordability. This makes them an ideal choice for budget-conscious consumers in Kenya who don't want to compromise on quality. With the Galaxy Buds 2, you get a premium audio experience without breaking the bank.
In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 are a smart investment for anyone looking to enhance their audio experience in Kenya. Their noise cancellation capabilities, comfortable design, seamless integration, and affordable price make them a standout choice in the crowded wireless earbud market. Upgrade your listening experience today with the Galaxy Buds 2!
Description
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 represent a significant step forward in the world of wireless audio, offering a compelling blend of features, performance, and value. For those in Kenya seeking an immersive and convenient listening experience, these earbuds present a strong contender. Let’s delve deeper into what makes the Galaxy Buds 2 a standout choice, covering everything from design and comfort to sound quality, noise cancellation, and overall user experience. We will also explore best practices for using and maintaining your Galaxy Buds 2 to ensure they remain a reliable companion for years to come.
Design and Comfort
The design of the Galaxy Buds 2 is both sleek and functional, prioritizing comfort for extended use. The earbuds are lightweight, each weighing only about 5 grams, which minimizes ear fatigue during long listening sessions. The in-ear design provides a secure fit, aided by the inclusion of three sizes of silicone ear tips (small, medium, and large) to accommodate different ear shapes. The smooth, glossy finish gives the earbuds a premium look and feel, and they are available in several stylish colors, including Graphite, White, Olive, and Lavender.
The charging case is compact and easily fits in your pocket, making it convenient to carry around. It also features a glossy finish and a rounded design that complements the earbuds. The case provides additional battery life, allowing you to keep your earbuds charged on the go.
Expert Tip:
To ensure the best fit and sound quality, experiment with the different ear tip sizes. A proper seal is crucial for optimal noise cancellation and bass response. You can use the Earbud fit test in the Galaxy Wearable app to determine which ear tips provide the best seal for your ears.
Sound Quality
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 deliver a well-balanced and detailed sound signature, thanks to their dual-driver system. Each earbud features an 11mm woofer for rich bass and a 6.3mm tweeter for clear highs. This combination results in a full and immersive listening experience that is suitable for various genres of music, podcasts, and audiobooks.
The earbuds support the SBC, AAC, and SSC (Samsung Seamless Codec) audio codecs. The SSC codec is optimized for Samsung devices, providing enhanced audio quality and stability. However, the AAC codec ensures good performance on iOS devices as well.
Expert Tip:
Customize the sound to your preferences using the equalizer settings in the Galaxy Wearable app. You can choose from several preset profiles, such as Bass Boost, Soft, and Clear, or create your own custom EQ settings. This allows you to fine-tune the sound to match your taste and the type of content you are listening to.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Ambient Sound Mode
One of the standout features of the Galaxy Buds 2 is their active noise cancellation (ANC) technology. The earbuds use a combination of internal and external microphones to detect and cancel out ambient noise, reducing distractions and allowing you to focus on your audio. The ANC performance is impressive for earbuds in this price range, effectively blocking out background noise in various environments, such as busy streets, public transportation, and offices.
The Galaxy Buds 2 also feature an Ambient Sound mode, which allows you to hear your surroundings without removing the earbuds. This is useful when you need to be aware of your environment, such as when crossing the street or having a conversation. The Ambient Sound mode has multiple levels, allowing you to adjust the amount of external sound that is let in.
Expert Tip:
Experiment with the different ANC and Ambient Sound settings to find the optimal balance for your environment. In very noisy environments, use the High ANC setting for maximum noise reduction. In quieter environments, use the Low ANC setting or Ambient Sound mode to stay aware of your surroundings.
Battery Life
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 offer decent battery life, providing up to 5 hours of playback with ANC enabled and up to 7.5 hours with ANC disabled. The charging case provides an additional 20 hours of battery life with ANC enabled and 29 hours with ANC disabled. This means you can get a total of up to 25 hours of listening time with ANC enabled and up to 36.5 hours with ANC disabled.
The case supports wireless charging, allowing you to conveniently charge it on a Qi-compatible wireless charger. It also supports fast charging, providing up to 1 hour of playback with just 5 minutes of charging.
Expert Tip:
To maximize battery life, disable ANC when you don't need it. Also, keep the volume at a moderate level, as higher volumes consume more power. If you are not using the earbuds for an extended period, store them in the charging case to prevent them from draining the battery.
Connectivity and Features
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 use Bluetooth 5.2 for a stable and reliable connection to your devices. They support the Auto Switch feature, which allows you to seamlessly switch between Samsung devices without manually disconnecting and reconnecting. The earbuds also feature touch controls, allowing you to control playback, adjust volume, answer calls, and activate voice assistants with simple taps and swipes.
The Galaxy Wearable app provides additional features and customization options. You can use the app to update the earbuds' firmware, customize the touch controls, adjust the equalizer settings, and find your earbuds if you misplace them.
Expert Tip:
Customize the touch controls to match your usage habits. For example, you can set a double-tap to skip to the next track and a triple-tap to go back to the previous track. This allows you to control your music without having to reach for your phone.
Call Quality
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 offer good call quality, thanks to their three microphones per earbud. The microphones use beamforming technology to focus on your voice and reduce background noise, ensuring clear and crisp calls. The earbuds also support wind noise reduction, which minimizes the impact of wind on call quality when you are outdoors.
Expert Tip:
When making calls in noisy environments, speak clearly and directly into the microphones. This will help the earbuds to better capture your voice and reduce background noise.
Maintenance and Care
To keep your Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 in good condition and ensure they last for a long time, it is important to follow some simple maintenance and care tips.
- Clean the earbuds regularly with a soft, dry cloth. Remove any earwax or debris that may accumulate on the ear tips and charging contacts.
- Avoid exposing the earbuds to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
- Store the earbuds in the charging case when you are not using them to protect them from dust and damage.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents to clean the earbuds, as they may damage the finish.
- If the earbuds get wet, dry them thoroughly before storing them in the charging case.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 are an excellent choice for anyone in Kenya looking for a pair of wireless earbuds that offer a compelling combination of features, performance, and value. They provide a comfortable fit, well-balanced sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and decent battery life. With their sleek design, user-friendly features, and affordable price point, the Galaxy Buds 2 are a standout choice in the crowded wireless earbud market. By following the expert tips and maintenance guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your Galaxy Buds 2 remain a reliable and enjoyable audio companion for years to come.
Question & Answer
Q: Are the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 waterproof?
A: The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 have an IPX2 water resistance rating, which means they are protected against light sweat and splashes. However, they are not fully waterproof and should not be submerged in water or worn during swimming or showering. It's best to avoid exposing them to excessive moisture.
Q: How do I pair the Galaxy Buds 2 with my smartphone?
A: To pair the Galaxy Buds 2 with your smartphone, open the charging case and put the earbuds into pairing mode. On your smartphone, go to Bluetooth settings and search for available devices. Select "Galaxy Buds 2" from the list and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the pairing process. If you have a Samsung device, the pairing process is even simpler with the pop-up connection feature.
Q: Can I use the Galaxy Buds 2 with my iPhone?
A: Yes, the Galaxy Buds 2 are compatible with iPhones. You can connect them via Bluetooth in the same way as with an Android device. However, some features, such as seamless switching and the Samsung Seamless Codec, may not be available on iOS devices. You can download the Galaxy Wearable app for iOS to access some customization options.
Q: How do I control music playback on the Galaxy Buds 2?
A: The Galaxy Buds 2 have touch controls on the earbuds. A single tap pauses or plays music, a double tap skips to the next track, and a triple tap goes back to the previous track. You can also customize these touch controls in the Galaxy Wearable app to perform other actions, such as adjusting the volume or activating the voice assistant.
Q: How do I activate Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) on the Galaxy Buds 2?
A: You can activate or deactivate ANC by tapping and holding one of the earbuds. You can also control the ANC settings in the Galaxy Wearable app. The app allows you to choose between High, Low, and Off modes for noise cancellation, as well as adjust the Ambient Sound mode to hear your surroundings.
Q: How do I check the battery level of the Galaxy Buds 2 and the charging case?
A: You can check the battery level of the Galaxy Buds 2 and the charging case in the Galaxy Wearable app. The app displays the battery percentage for each earbud and the case. Additionally, you can check the battery level on Samsung devices through the pop-up notification when you open the charging case.
Q: What do the different color indicators on the charging case mean?
A: The charging case has an LED indicator that shows the charging status. A red light indicates that the case is charging, a green light indicates that the case is fully charged, and a flashing red light indicates a charging error. The color also shows the battery level when the case is opened without the cable connected.
Q: Can I use one earbud at a time?
A: Yes, you can use either the left or right earbud independently. When you remove one earbud from your ear, the music will automatically pause, and you can continue listening with the remaining earbud. This is useful for conserving battery life or staying aware of your surroundings.
Q: How do I reset the Galaxy Buds 2?
A: To reset the Galaxy Buds 2, place the earbuds in the charging case and close the lid. Open the Galaxy Wearable app, select "Earbuds settings," then "General," and finally "Reset." Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset process. This can help resolve connectivity issues or other problems.
Q: Are the ear tips replaceable on the Galaxy Buds 2?
A: Yes, the ear tips on the Galaxy Buds 2 are replaceable. The earbuds come with three sizes of ear tips (small, medium, and large) to ensure a comfortable fit. You can purchase additional ear tips from Samsung or third-party retailers if needed.
Q: Can I use the Galaxy Buds 2 for phone calls?
A: Yes, the Galaxy Buds 2 are designed for phone calls. They have multiple microphones that help reduce background noise and improve voice clarity. You can answer or end calls by tapping one of the earbuds, and the call quality is generally clear and reliable.
Q: How effective is the noise cancellation on the Galaxy Buds 2 compared to other earbuds?
A: The noise cancellation on the Galaxy Buds 2 is quite effective for their price range. While it may not be as strong as some higher-end earbuds like the Galaxy Buds Pro or Sony WF-1000XM4, it does a good job of reducing background noise in various environments, such as offices, public transportation, and crowded areas.
Q: Do the Galaxy Buds 2 support voice assistants like Bixby or Google Assistant?
A: Yes, the Galaxy Buds 2 support both Bixby and Google Assistant. You can activate your preferred voice assistant by customizing the touch controls in the Galaxy Wearable app. Once set up, you can use voice commands to control music, make calls, check the weather, and more.
Q: Can I adjust the volume on the Galaxy Buds 2 directly?
A: Yes, you can adjust the volume directly on the Galaxy Buds 2 by customizing the touch controls in the Galaxy Wearable app. You can set a tap-and-hold gesture to either increase or decrease the volume, providing convenient control without needing to reach for your smartphone.
Q: What is the range of the Bluetooth connection on the Galaxy Buds 2?
A: The Bluetooth range of the Galaxy Buds 2 is typically around 10 meters (33 feet) in open areas. However, the range can be affected by obstacles such as walls, doors, and other electronic devices. For the best connection stability, keep your smartphone or other connected device within close proximity to the earbuds.
Q: How do I update the firmware on my Galaxy Buds 2?
A: You can update the firmware on your Galaxy Buds 2 through the Galaxy Wearable app. The app will notify you when a new firmware update is available. Simply follow the on-screen instructions to download and install the update. Make sure the earbuds are connected to your device and have sufficient battery life before starting the update.
Q: Can I use the Galaxy Buds 2 with my laptop?
A: Yes, you can use the Galaxy Buds 2 with your laptop as long as it has Bluetooth connectivity. Simply pair the earbuds with your laptop in the same way as you would with a smartphone. Once paired, you can use the earbuds for listening to music, watching videos, or making calls.
Q: What should I do if my Galaxy Buds 2 are not charging?
A: If your Galaxy Buds 2 are not charging, first make sure that the charging case is properly connected to a power source and that the charging cable is working. Clean the charging contacts on the earbuds and the charging case to remove any debris. If the problem persists, try resetting the earbuds or contacting Samsung support for assistance.
Q: Are the Galaxy Buds 2 comfortable for long listening sessions?
A: Yes, the Galaxy Buds 2 are designed to be comfortable for long listening sessions. They are lightweight and come with multiple ear tip sizes to ensure a snug and secure fit. However, comfort can vary depending on individual ear shape and size. It's recommended to experiment with the different ear tip sizes to find the best fit for you.
Q: What are the advantages of using Samsung Seamless Codec (SSC) with Galaxy Buds 2?
A: The Samsung Seamless Codec (SSC) is designed to provide a more stable and high-quality audio experience when used with compatible Samsung devices. SSC minimizes audio data loss during transmission, resulting in improved sound clarity, reduced latency, and enhanced overall performance, especially noticeable when listening to high-resolution audio files.