Sony WF-1000XM4 Black
Score: 82/100
Samsung Galaxy Buds FE
Score: 79/100Rankings
The Sony WF-1000XM4 deliver top-tier ANC, LDAC high-resolution audio and up to 12 hours of playback without ANC. They lack wireless charging and are slightly bulkier than newer models. Suited for audiophiles and travelers seeking premium sound and strong noise cancellation.
Samsung Galaxy Buds FE deliver strong ANC and a comfortable wing-tip fit while offering up to 30 hours of total playback at a budget price. Their limited IPX2 rating, lack of wireless charging, and missing physical volume controls are notable trade-offs. Ideal for Samsung users who value ecosystem features and solid battery life over premium durability.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 30 hoursbest | |
12 hoursbest | 8.5 hours | |
| ↓ lower better | 90 minutesbest | — |
6 mm | 6.5 mmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 5 minutesbest |
10 metersbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 55.6 gbest | 100 g |
— | 6best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(2) | ||
IP Rating | IPX4 | IPX2 |
Total Weight (Earbuds + Case) (g) | 55.6 g | 100 g |
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Battery Life (Earbuds Only) (hours) | 12 hours | 8.5 hours |
Audio(2) | ||
Supported Audio Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | SSC, AAC, SBC |
Driver Size (mm) | 6 mm | 6.5 mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the WF-1000XM4 for its superior sound quality, thanks to 6 mm drivers, the Integrated Processor V1, and LDAC support, while also highlighting the lightweight build and solid ANC performance. However, they warn that the strong noise cancellation can reduce situational awareness, making the earbuds unsuitable for activities like biking, and note the lack of detailed dimension data and reduced call-time battery life as drawbacks.
Everyday users praise the earbuds for their lightweight comfort, effective noise cancellation on commutes and travel, and high-quality audio when using LDAC. Recurring complaints focus on occasional fit issues, safety concerns during outdoor activities due to ANC, and shorter battery life during voice calls.
Professional reviewers praise the Galaxy Buds FE for their strong ANC that cuts low-frequency noise, comfortable winged fit, solid battery life, and seamless Samsung ecosystem features like Auto Switch and the SSC codec. Criticisms focus on the absence of physical volume controls, a slippery glossy case, limited water resistance (IPX2), and the lack of multi-device pairing or wireless charging.
Everyday users echo the experts, highlighting the earbuds' comfort, bass-forward sound, and portability as major positives. Recurring complaints revolve around the glossy case slipping, the missing volume slider on the touch interface, and occasional pressure from the wing tips during long listening sessions.
