Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Review (2024): Are They Still Worth Buying

Wireless earbuds age fast, but some models linger in the conversation longer than others. The Samsung Galaxy Buds2 launched in August 2021, and three years later, shoppers in Ireland still ask whether they deserve a spot in 2024’s budget-friendly lineup.

Release date: August 2021 ·
Weight per earbud: 5 grams ·
Battery life (buds only): Up to 5 hours ·
Initial price (Ireland): €159 ·
Active Noise Cancellation: Yes, adjustable

Samsung’s official specifications confirm the Buds2’s compact build and moderate battery life.

Are the Galaxy Buds2 Still Good in 2024?

Evaluating three-year-old earbud technology

• Multiple 2024 reviews still describe the Buds2 as a solid but no longer class‑leading true wireless option (HeadphonesAddict, a specialist audio review site).
• SoundGuys calls them “a good everyday headset with good noise canceling and passive isolation for the price” (SoundGuys, an established editorial publication).
• RTINGS notes they are “very good for commute and travel because they are small and lightweight” (RTINGS, a reputable audio testing lab).

Three years is a long time in consumer tech, but the Buds2 still deliver reliable performance. The 11‑mm drivers produce a balanced sound signature, and the adjustable ANC remains competitive against modern budget earbuds.

Key performance metrics in 2024

• Battery life in RTINGS’ testing measured 4.7 hours with ANC on, which they describe as “sub‑par versus earlier Samsung earbuds” (RTINGS).
• HeadphonesAddict lists 5.5 hours plus 20 hours in the case with ANC on (HeadphonesAddict).
• Bluetooth 5.2 keeps the connection stable with modern smartphones.

The pattern: the Buds2 are a competent all‑rounder, but their battery life lags behind newer models that push past 8 hours per charge. For a daily commute, 4.7‑5 hours is workable; for all‑day use, you’ll rely on the case.

Are Galaxy Buds 2 Still Worth Buying in 2024?

Pros of the Galaxy Buds2 in 2024

• Lightweight (5g each) and comfortable for extended wear (RTINGS).
• Adjustable ANC effectively reduces ambient noise for commuting (SoundGuys).
• Significant price drop since launch—often found below €100 in Irish retailers.
• Still supported by Samsung’s Wearable app with regular firmware updates.

Cons and alternatives in 2024

• Battery life is sub‑par compared to 2024 budget models (e.g., 7‑8 hour options).
• No IP rating for water resistance (only IPX2 sweat resistance is claimed).
• Missing multipoint Bluetooth connection—a feature now standard on many competitors.

What this means: If you can find the Buds2 for around €70‑€90 in Ireland, they’re a steal. But at current retail prices near €120, the trade‑offs become harder to swallow.

What Is Better, Galaxy Buds2 or Galaxy Buds3?

Design and fit differences

• The Buds2 are notably compact at 5g each; the Buds3 are expected to be slightly larger but with improved ergonomics.
• Both share a stem‑less design, but early leaks suggest the Buds3 may adopt a stemmed form factor.

Since the Buds3 haven’t launched, comparisons rely on rumors. The Buds2’s in‑ear fit is secure for most users (RTINGS).

Sound quality and ANC comparison

• The Buds2 use a two‑way speaker system (woofer and tweeter) (YouTube review).
• The Buds2 Pro, a closer reference, uses a coaxial two‑way design with 10mm+5.3mm drivers and supports 24‑bit Hi‑Fi audio (Samsung Ireland).

Without official Buds3 specs, the most relevant comparison today is Buds2 vs Buds2 Pro—see the next section.

Battery life and charging

• Buds2: 5 hours with ANC (RTINGS).
• Buds2 Pro: also up to 5 hours with ANC (Samsung Ireland).

The implication: the Buds2 don’t lose much ground on battery, but newer models likely improve efficiency and charging speed.

The pattern: the standard Buds2 loses on water resistance and codec support but matches the Pro on battery life, making the choice depend on which extra features matter to you.

Is the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro Worth the Extra Cost?

Key upgrades in the Buds2 Pro

• Intelligent ANC that adapts to your surroundings (Samsung Ireland).
• IPX7 water resistance (Samsung Ireland).
• 24‑bit Hi‑Fi audio support for compatible Samsung devices.
• Bluetooth 5.3 for lower latency and better battery management.

TechGearLab reports the Pro’s ANC dampens noises below 2,000 Hz by 15‑20 dB (TechGearLab, a trusted audio testing site).

Who should choose the Buds2 over the Buds2 Pro?

• If you don’t need water resistance and can live with standard ANC, the standard Buds2 delivers 80% of the experience at a lower price.
• Budget‑conscious buyers in Ireland will find the Buds2 at significant discounts; the Pro still hovers above €150.

The catch: the Pro’s extra features matter most for outdoor runners (IPX7) or audiophiles on Samsung phones (24‑bit audio). For casual listeners, the standard Buds2 remains the smarter buy.

How Long Do Galaxy Buds2 Last?

Battery life with ANC on vs off

• With ANC on: 4.7‑5 hours (RTINGS: 4.7h; HeadphonesAddict: 5.5h).
• With ANC off: up to 7.5 hours (YouTube review).
• Charging case adds 15‑20 hours with ANC on.

A three‑year‑old unit may show 10‑15% capacity loss, dropping effective ANC time to around 4 hours—a clear sign it’s time to consider a replacement.

Longevity and durability after three years

• The earbuds themselves remain physically robust, but battery degradation is inevitable.
• Samsung’s software support continues, but major firmware updates are unlikely for a 2021 product.

Why this matters: Irish buyers picking up a used or open‑box Buds2 should factor in potential battery wear. A new unit will still deliver its rated life; a used one may need a charging case replacement sooner.

Quotes

“The Galaxy Buds2 are a good everyday headset with good noise canceling and passive isolation for the price.”

— SoundGuys (audio review site)

“The Buds2 are very good for commute and travel because they are small and lightweight.”

— RTINGS (headphone testing lab)

“The Galaxy Buds2 Pro are extremely lightweight, comfortable, and secure.”

— TechGearLab (tech review site)

“The Galaxy Buds2 were launched as a $150 product and were 15% smaller and 20% lighter than the Galaxy Buds+.”

— YouTube review

For the Irish shopper who values portability and noise cancellation without breaking the bank, the Galaxy Buds2 still deliver strong value in 2024—but only if you find them below €100. Above that price, the Buds2 Pro’s water resistance and adaptive ANC justify the extra spend. The choice for budget buyers is clear: grab the Buds2 on sale, or wait for the Buds3 to shake up the market.

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