If you’re stuck between the Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 and Samsung Galaxy Buds FE, then this article is tailor-made for you.
After spending considerable time with both of these highly regarded earbuds, I’ve gathered a wealth of insights to assist you in making the most informed choice.
Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 vs Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: Price & availability
When it comes to choosing between the Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 and Samsung Galaxy Buds FE, a crucial factor for many is their pricing and availability.
The Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2, launched in August 2023, entered the market with a price tag of $129.99 in the US and £129.99 in the UK. These earbuds are readily accessible in several regions, including the US, UK, and Europe.
The Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 offers two classic color options – black and ivory. While these colors might seem standard, they hold the potential for future discounts. However, it’s worth noting that the pricing for these earbuds is already quite competitive.
On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE made their debut in September 2023, expanding their availability to the US and UK. Initially priced at $99 / £99, these earbuds experienced a notable price drop during promotional events like Black Friday, coming down to an attractive $70 / £75.
The Galaxy Buds FE are available in two chic color choices – white and graphite, the latter being a sophisticated term for black. Interestingly, Samsung has kept the price consistent across both color variants.
Where to Buy?
- Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2: View on Aliexpress | View on Amazon
- Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: View on AliExpress | View on Amazon
Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 vs Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: Specs comparison
| Feature | Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 | Samsung Galaxy Buds FE |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Wireless in-ear | Wireless in-ear |
| Drivers | 10mm | 6.5mm |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Life | Up to 22 hours with ANC off, up to 16 hours with ANC on | Up to 9 hours (ANC off) or 6 hours with ANC on, plus up to 21 hours from charging case |
| Weight | 5.6g per bud | 5.6g per earbud |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Waterproofing | IP54 | IPX2 |
| Price | $129.99/£129.99 | $99 / £99 |
Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 vs Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: Design
Case Design & Charging:
- Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2: The case is angular and somewhat bulky, which means it’s more noticeable in your pocket compared to slimmer designs like the Apple AirPods. There’s no option for wireless charging, so you’re limited to using the USB-C port.
- Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: These come with a smaller, more compact case. It’s not as tiny as some ultra-small models, but it’s conveniently portable. Like the Edifier, there’s also no wireless charging here; you’ll be using the USB-C port for charging.
Aesthetic & Customization:
- Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2: The case features an LED light bar, customizable with eight color choices through an app. This feature, while somewhat gimmicky, adds a touch of personality. However, the case’s overall look might not be everyone’s cup of tea in terms of style.
- Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: They sport a simple, elegant design. Though not offer customizable colors, their sleek appearance in the available colors is quite appealing.
Earbud Size & Comfort:
- Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2: The earbuds are larger, but this size contributes to a secure and snug fit. They’re designed to stay firmly in your ears, even during active movements or exercises.
- Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: These earbuds are smaller, making them particularly suitable for those with smaller ears. They provide a comfortable fit and stay in place well, even during workouts.
Functionality:
- Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2: The earbuds feature touch-sensitive controls for various functions, which are handy but may be underused due to effective wear detection. These controls are particularly useful for tasks like taking calls.
- Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: They also come with touch controls, which are consistently easy to access and use. The simplicity and responsiveness of these controls add to the user experience.
Weather Resistance:
- Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2: It has an IP54 rating presents a good environmental adaption and has long durability.
- Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: They have an IPX2 rating, indicating some degree of resistance to water. However, this rating is relatively low, so they might not be the best choice for use in heavy rain.
Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 vs. Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: Sound Quality Comparison
Noise Cancellation:
- Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2: The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) on these earbuds is exceptional. Even when walking along a busy road, they effectively reduce external noise, allowing for an immersive listening experience. The app offers various ANC modes, including a useful wind reduction option, making them versatile for different environments.
- Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: The ANC is quite impressive for earbuds in this price range. They do a good job of muting external noises, though you might occasionally catch some ambient sounds. The app provides basic settings like transparency and ANC modes.
Sound Experience:
- Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2: Out of the box, they deliver crisp mids and detailed highs, with a smooth, punchy bass. The overall sound profile is balanced and lively, suitable for a variety of music genres. The app allows for EQ adjustments, adding flexibility for personal preferences. However, they could benefit from a wider soundstage.
- Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: The sound quality is reasonable for the price. Genres like pop and rock come through vibrantly, though there can be slight distortion at times. The app includes preset EQ settings, including a Bass Boost mode, but lacks custom EQ options.
Audio Customization & Features:
- Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2: The app’s EQ adjustments are effective, offering the chance to tweak the sound to your liking. Plus, the support for Hi-Res audio with LHDC 5.0 HD codec adds value, enhancing the overall listening experience.
- Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: The EQ within the app is somewhat limited but exploring different presets can enhance your listening experience, depending on your music preferences.
Overall Audio Quality:
- Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2: These earbuds excel in delivering a detailed and balanced audio experience, with excellent ANC and customizable sound settings. They are ideal for users looking for a high-quality sound experience in various environments.
- Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: They offer strong ANC and decent sound quality for their price. While they may not match the audio finesse of higher-end models, they are a solid choice for everyday listening and users on a budget.
Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 vs. Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: Battery Life
When it comes to wireless earbuds, battery life is a critical factor for many users, affecting how they integrate into daily life. Here’s how the Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 and Samsung Galaxy Buds FE stack up in terms of battery performance.
The Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2’s charging cradle is designed with portability in mind. Its lightweight and rounded design makes it easy and comfortable to carry in your pocket, without any bothersome sharp edges.
However, when it comes to battery life, the Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 offers about 4 hours of playtime with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) activated, and the charging case provides an additional 12 hours.
Turning off ANC slightly improves the situation, extending earbud life to 5.5 hours and case life to 16.5 hours. For those in a hurry, a quick 15-minute charge can deliver 2 hours of playback, which is a handy feature. The cradle, charged via a USB-C connection, is solidly built and includes a functional and aesthetically pleasing LED indicator.
On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE are reported to offer a more generous battery life. With ANC turned on, you can expect around 6 hours of playback from the earbuds and roughly 21 hours from the case.
Disabling ANC pushes these numbers to about 8.5 hours for the earbuds and up to 30 hours with the case. It’s worth noting that actual battery life can vary based on individual use, including volume levels and connectivity.
During our testing, the Galaxy Buds FE lived up to these expectations, consistently delivering around 4 hours of use with ANC activated. This performance aligns closely with the Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 when using noise cancellation, though Samsung’s offering extends further with ANC off.
Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 vs Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: Which should you buy?
Deciding between the Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 and the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE hinges on what you value most in your earbuds. Here’s a guide to help you choose based on your preferences:
Buy Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 if:
- You prioritize exceptional Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).
- You prefer straightforward usability without the need for frequent adjustments.
- You’re looking for high-quality audio performance at a more affordable price.
- Simplicity in operation, with a focus on quality listening experiences, appeals to you.
Buy Samsung Galaxy Buds FE if:
- You’re a Samsung or Android user, looking to maximize device integration and features.
- Affordable ANC is important to you, and you want good noise cancellation on a budget.
- The risk of losing your earbuds is a concern, and you’d appreciate a Lost Mode feature.
- You don’t require customizable EQ settings and are okay with preset audio profiles.
You may also like to see:
- Edifier NeoBuds Pro vs Sony LinkBuds S
- Edifier Neobuds Pro 2 vs Neobuds Pro
- Edifier NeoBuds Pro 2 vs Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
- SoundCore Liberty 4 vs Liberty 3 Pro
Nick, the Co-founder of Earbuds Arena, is a seasoned freelance tech journalist with over ten years of experience covering wearables, apps, headphones, and gadgets. When he’s not immersed in the tech world, you’ll likely find him unwinding with video games, going for a run, or enjoying a game of soccer on the field.
