Joe Maring / Android Authority
I’ve had Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 3 Pro since they were released over a year ago, and while there’s a fair amount I like about them, they’ve largely stayed put in my office closet instead of being my go-to earbuds of choice.
Why? Because of their design. Samsung made a few questionable design choices with the Buds 3 Pro, and they add up in a way that makes using the earbuds more annoying than enjoyable.
Thankfully, it looks like Samsung is turning over a new leaf. Android Authority recently shared an exclusive first look at the upcoming Galaxy Buds 4 Pro. They still resemble the Buds 3 Pro, but with a couple of design tweaks that should be significant in daily use. And as a hater of the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro design, I couldn’t be more excited.
What do you think of the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro redesign? 13 votes I love it! Looks like a great upgrade over the Buds 3 Pro. 38 % I don't like it, I prefer the Buds 3 Pro design. 15 % I wish Samsung would go back to stem-less earbuds. 31 % I'm not sure yet. 15 %
The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro design drives me crazy
Ryan Haines / Android Authority
Every time I’ve tried using the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro over the past year, the same thing happens. I quite like the sound quality and the overall comfort once the buds are in my ears. However, the second I have to interact with the earbuds or their charging case, I remember why I can’t stick with the Buds 3 Pro for more than a few days at a time.
The main issue I have with the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro is the sharp, triangular design of the earbud stems. While it looks cool, it’s also a usability nightmare. With traditional earbuds that have a round stem, you can grab them anywhere to comfortably perform whatever squeeze/swipe gestures they’re capable of.
The Buds 3 Pro stem doesn’t work that way. While the gestures themselves are accurate and pleasing to use, the challenge lies in gripping the stem of the Buds 3 Pro in a way that activates the gestures. Grip it too close to the outside, and your fingers slide along the angles and mess up your in-ear fit. Grab it too close to the inside, and you’ll likely end up knocking the Buds 3 Pro out of your ear and into your hand — just as my colleague Ryan Haines complained about last year.
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