Sony WF-1000XM5 vs Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro
We compare the Sony WF-1000XM5 and Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro head-to-head on performance, features, value, and more. Here's which one wins.
Sony WF-1000XM5
Scored 9.5/10 in our testing
Sony WF-1000XM5
Best sounding noise-cancelling earbuds with LDAC hi-res audio
Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro
Best noise-cancelling earbuds for Samsung Galaxy phones
Score Breakdown
| Sony WF-1000XM5 | Category | Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| 9.7/10 ✓ | Performance | 9.3/10 |
| 9.5/10 | Features | 9.5/10 |
| 9/10 | Ease of Use | 9/10 |
| 8.8/10 | Value | ✓ 9/10 |
| 9.5/10 ✓ | Overall | 9.3/10 |
Specs Comparison
| Sony WF-1000XM5 | Spec | Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Industry-leading noise cancellation | ANC | Adaptive ANC with AI processing |
| LDAC hi-res + DSEE Extreme upscaling | Audio | Samsung Scalable + 360 Audio |
| 8.4mm dynamic driver | Driver | 10.5mm planar + 6.1mm tweeter |
| 8 hrs ANC / 24 hrs with case | Battery | 7 hrs ANC / 30 hrs with case |
| LDAC, AAC, SBC | Codec | Galaxy AI translation, Blade Lights |
Sony WF-1000XM5
Pros
- + Best sound quality in class
- + LDAC hi-res Bluetooth
- + Industry-leading ANC
- + Comfortable foam tips included
Cons
- − Expensive
- − LDAC only on Android
- − Touch controls can be finicky
- − Case larger than AirPods
Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro
Pros
- + Galaxy AI translation
- + Dual-driver sound — clear and detailed
- + 360 Audio with head tracking
- + Blade Light design is unique
Cons
- − Best features require Samsung phone
- − Stem design not for everyone
- − ANC slightly behind Sony
Our Verdict
Based on our scoring, the Sony WF-1000XM5 comes out on top with an overall score of 9.5/10. The XM5 produce the richest, most detailed sound of any earbuds we tested. LDAC codec delivers hi-res audio from Android. DSEE Extreme upscales compressed Spotify tracks. The 8.4mm driver has a wider frequency response than competitors.
Buy the Sony WF-1000XM5 on AmazonRead the full Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds 2026 guide for complete reviews of all 3 products.
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