Introduction
Samsung’s latest entry-level wireless earbuds, the Galaxy Buds3 FE, aim to balance affordability and quality in a crowded market. Priced at $150, they sit between the premium Galaxy Buds3 Pro ($190) and the budget-friendly Galaxy Buds FE ($100).
At first glance, they look almost identical to the Pro version but strip away some advanced features. What they keep, however, are the essentials: great sound, comfortable design, and reliable active noise cancellation (ANC). For Samsung fans who want excellent value without overspending, the Buds3 FE present an attractive choice.
Positioning in Samsung’s Lineup
Buds3 Pro vs. Buds3 FE
The Buds3 Pro remain Samsung’s flagship wireless earbuds, boasting LED blade lights, dual drivers, wireless charging, and advanced features like head tracking. The Buds3 FE, meanwhile, focus on delivering core functionality at a lower cost.
What’s missing in the FE model:
LED lights and premium design touches
Dual drivers for layered audio
Wireless charging support
Full waterproofing (FE is IP54 rated vs. Pro’s higher rating)
Head tracking and auto-pause features
What remains:
High-quality sound across all ranges
Impressive ANC and transparency modes
Solid call quality
Lightweight and comfortable design
Midrange Placement and Alternatives
Interestingly, Samsung is keeping the older Galaxy Buds FE ($100) alongside the new Buds3 FE. This gives customers a choice between:
The button-style Buds FE, which offer stability during workouts.
The stem-based Buds3 FE, which feel lighter and more natural for casual wear.
This dual offering provides users with fit flexibility, a smart move by Samsung.
Design and Comfort
Fit and Everyday Wear
The Buds3 FE adopt a stem-based design similar to Apple’s AirPods. Their lightweight build makes them comfortable for extended wear. Unlike the first-gen Buds FE, they don’t use silicone stability fins, which means they might not be the best for intense workouts.
Ear Tips and Customization
Samsung includes three ear tip sizes (small, medium, large). While that’s fewer than Apple’s four-size offering, the Samsung Wear app includes a helpful fit test that ensures the right seal. A proper fit not only improves comfort but also enhances sound isolation and ANC performance.
Features and Functionality
Gesture Controls and Usability
Borrowing from Apple’s playbook, the Buds3 FE introduce pinch and swipe gestures. The triangular stems make them a bit trickier at first, but with time, they become intuitive.
Pinch to play/pause or answer calls.
Swipe up/down for volume adjustments.
These gestures are a clear improvement over the tap controls of the original Buds FE.
Device Compatibility
Like other Galaxy earbuds, the Buds3 FE shine brightest when paired with a Samsung Galaxy phone. Features such as seamless device switching and Galaxy-exclusive enhancements won’t work on iPhones, making this product less appealing for Apple users.
App Integration
Through the Samsung Wear app, users can:
Run fit tests
Customize controls
Adjust sound profiles
Update firmware
This adds extra value and makes the Buds3 FE more adaptable.
Audio Performance
Sound Quality
For $150 earbuds, the Galaxy Buds3 FE punch well above their weight.
Bass: Snappy and resonant without overpowering the mix.
Mids and highs: Crisp, detailed, and balanced.
Soundstage: Surprisingly wide for earbuds in this price category.
These qualities allow the Buds3 FE to compete with more expensive models from Sony and Bose.
ANC and Transparency
Samsung has equipped the Buds3 FE with effective active noise cancellation and a transparent listening mode. While not as advanced as the Pro version, they block most everyday noise (like commuting sounds) and allow clear ambient awareness when needed.
Call Quality
The microphones perform well, making calls clear even in noisy environments—a common weak spot in budget earbuds.
Battery Life and Charging
Samsung no longer includes a charging cable in the box, but the Buds3 FE charge via USB-C. While they lack wireless charging, battery performance is solid for daily use.
Durability and Water Resistance
With an IP54 rating, the Buds3 FE offer better dust and water resistance than the original Buds FE (IPX2). They’re safe for workouts and light rain, though not fully waterproof.
Who Should Buy the Buds3 FE?
The Galaxy Buds3 FE are ideal for:
Samsung Galaxy phone owners seeking midrange earbuds.
Casual listeners who prioritize comfort and sound quality.
Budget-conscious buyers who want premium performance without paying for Pro-level extras.
Not ideal for:
iPhone users, who lose out on many features.
High-intensity athletes, who may prefer the original Buds FE for better stability.
How Trenzest Can Help You Stay Ahead
At Trenzest, we specialize in tracking consumer electronics trends and helping brands position their products effectively in competitive markets.
From analyzing product launches like the Galaxy Buds3 FE to identifying shifts in consumer behavior, Trenzest equips entrepreneurs, marketers, and tech enthusiasts with actionable insights.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 FE strike a strong balance between price and performance. They may lack some premium touches, but they excel where it matters most—sound, comfort, and core functionality.
For Samsung fans seeking affordable yet capable earbuds, the Buds3 FE are one of the best midrange wireless audio options in 2025.
