Earbuds / Compare

Apple AirPods 2 vs Samsung Galaxy Buds Live

A

Product A: Apple

AirPods 2

76 of 166 known

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B

Product B: Samsung

Galaxy Buds Live

81 of 166 known

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All 166 fields

Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

AApple AirPods 2

BSamsung Galaxy Buds Live

General

6 of 8 differ

Series

AirPods1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/111856Read 5 October 2026

Galaxy Buds2Maker product pagesamsung.com/ie/business/audio-sound/galaxy-buds/galaxy-buds-live-r180-sm-r180nzkaeuaRead 7 October 2026

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

A2031, A2032, A1938, MRXJ2AM/A2Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/109525Read 5 October 2026Identify your AirPods: A2031/A2032 are second-generation earbuds introduced in 2019. A1938 is the 2019 Qi-compatible Wireless Charging Case. A1602 and later case generations are not represented.20Retailer pagenissei.com/br/fone-de-ouvido-apple-airpods-com-estojo-de-recarga-sem-fio-mrxj2am-aRead 7 October 2026Retailer title and Part Number row: MRXJ2AM/A wireless-case package. Physical earbud A2031/A2032 and A1938 case identifiers retained.

SM-R180NZKAEUA, SM-R1801Maker product pagesearchapi.samsung.com/v6/front/b2c/product/spec/detailRead 5 October 2026Exact UK model row SM-R180NZKAEUA. Public API returned complete original specifications through an ordinary request. Web extraction failed.2Maker product pagesamsung.com/ie/business/audio-sound/galaxy-buds/galaxy-buds-live-r180-sm-r180nzkaeuaRead 7 October 20264Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 2026

GTIN / EAN

19019876469020Retailer pagenissei.com/br/fone-de-ouvido-apple-airpods-com-estojo-de-recarga-sem-fio-mrxj2am-aRead 7 October 2026Exact Wireless Charging Case package MRXJ2AM/A, More Information table UPC 190198764690 and part number MRXJ2AM/A. This is not the wired MV7N2 package. Other incorrect marketing claims on regional page are not used.

880609048685221Retailer pageep-online.ch/it/p/1310119/galaxy-buds-live-r180Read 7 October 2026Retailer exact manufacturer article SM-R180NZKAEUA maps EAN 8806090486852. Mystic Black original European reference SKU. Other retailers list multiple undifferentiated codes or combined EUA/EUE identifiers, which are not used. No barcode is inferred for the other finishes.

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

20 March 20193Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2019/03/airpods-the-worlds-most-popular-wireless-headphones-are-getting-even-betterRead 5 October 2026

5 August 20203Press releasenews.samsung.com/us/galaxy-watch3-buds-live-available-unpacked-2020Read 5 October 2026

Status

Discontinued18Press articlemacrumors.com/2024/09/10/airpods-lineup-streamlinedRead 7 October 2026September 10, 2024 report explicitly says Apple discontinued AirPods 2 and 3 with AirPods 4 launch. Covers marketed AirPods 2 family, not an asserted date for earlier wireless-case bundle withdrawal.

Not available

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Apple AirPods 13Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2019/03/airpods-the-worlds-most-popular-wireless-headphones-are-getting-even-betterRead 5 October 2026Apple's March 2019 release announces the second generation of AirPods and compares it with first generation AirPods.

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Apple AirPods 331Reviewrtings.com/headphones/reviews/apple/airpods-3rd-generation-truly-wirelessRead 23 October 2026RTINGS says the AirPods 3 follow the AirPods 2nd generation.32Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2021/10/introducing-the-next-generation-of-airpodsRead 23 October 2026Apple's October 2021 release announces the third generation of AirPods and cuts the price of AirPods 2nd generation.

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$1993Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2019/03/airpods-the-worlds-most-popular-wireless-headphones-are-getting-even-betterRead 5 October 2026Pricing and Availability explicitly gives 199 USD for the Wireless Charging Case package. The 159 USD standard-case bundle and standalone 79 USD case are different offers. US price before local sales tax. EUR tax scope unproved.

$169.993Press releasenews.samsung.com/us/galaxy-watch3-buds-live-available-unpacked-2020Read 5 October 2026Original US family launch MSRP, excluding tax. Selected European SKU is separately identified.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

US3Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2019/03/airpods-the-worlds-most-popular-wireless-headphones-are-getting-even-betterRead 5 October 2026

GB1Maker product pagesearchapi.samsung.com/v6/front/b2c/product/spec/detailRead 5 October 2026Reference SKU is the UK Mystic Black package. Hardware values are for this exact UK model row.

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

White4Press articlemacrumors.com/2019/03/26/airpods-2-in-store-pickup-now-availableRead 5 October 2026Same report explicitly says solely white.

Mystic Black, Mystic White, Mystic Bronze, Mystic Red, Mystic Blue, Onyx Black2Maker product pagesamsung.com/ie/business/audio-sound/galaxy-buds/galaxy-buds-live-r180-sm-r180nzkaeuaRead 7 October 20263Press releasenews.samsung.com/us/galaxy-watch3-buds-live-available-unpacked-2020Read 5 October 20266Press releasenews.samsung.com/de/mystic-blue-statt-winter-blues-galaxy-buds-live-exklusiv-im-samsung-online-shop-in-weiterer-farbe-verfugbarRead 5 October 2026Mystic Blue is a later finish of the same Galaxy Buds Live generation.17Press releasenews.samsung.com/us/kick-start-your-holiday-shopping-list-with-hot-new-holiday-tech-from-samsungRead 5 October 2026October 2020 later Mystic Red and Mystic Blue finishes of the same generation.18Press releasenews.samsung.com/br/fones-de-ouvido-sem-fio-galaxy-buds2-e-galaxy-buds-live-recebem-a-cor-preto-onix-no-brasilRead 5 October 2026June 2022 Brazilian Preto Onix finish, translated as Onyx Black. This is a regional later finish of the original Live, not a separate generation.

Segment

Music3Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2019/03/airpods-the-worlds-most-popular-wireless-headphones-are-getting-even-betterRead 5 October 2026

Music2Maker product pagesamsung.com/ie/business/audio-sound/galaxy-buds/galaxy-buds-live-r180-sm-r180nzkaeuaRead 7 October 2026

Design

2 of 4 differ

Form factoriIn-ear seals the ear canal with a tip. Semi-in-ear rests in the outer ear without a seal. Open-ear leaves the ear canal unobstructed.

Semi-in-ear14Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-airpods-review-11072Read 5 October 2026Exact 2019 review says the earbuds do not seal the ear canal. Passive awareness is not an electronic Transparency mode.

Open-ear4Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 2026Printed pages 22-23 place the wing tip in the upper outer ear and rotate the body to fit. Primary placement and firsthand canal-obstruction evidence support open_ear, beyond lack of a seal alone.6Press releasenews.samsung.com/de/mystic-blue-statt-winter-blues-galaxy-buds-live-exklusiv-im-samsung-online-shop-in-weiterer-farbe-verfugbarRead 5 October 2026Samsung explicitly says the earbuds lie in the outer ear rather than the ear canal. This supports unobstructed placement, in addition to the open-type label.7Reviewtheguardian.com/technology/2020/aug/25/samsung-galaxy-buds-live-review-novel-bean-shaped-airpod-rivals-sound-batteryRead 5 October 2026Firsthand fitting review states the ear canal remains unobstructed, with the speaker grille projecting sound towards it.8Review52audio.com/archives/55430.htmlRead 7 October 2026The teardown calls the physical fit semi-in-ear, with the speaker outlet near the canal. Catalog classification follows the more precise unobstructed-canal help and the exact maker fitting evidence. ANC microphone type/count are omitted because chip Hybrid capability does not establish this product implementation.

Bud shapeiStem describes an extending control or microphone stalk. Stemless describes a compact body without a stalk.

Stem14Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-airpods-review-11072Read 5 October 2026

Stemless7Reviewtheguardian.com/technology/2020/aug/25/samsung-galaxy-buds-live-review-novel-bean-shaped-airpod-rivals-sound-batteryRead 5 October 2026

Use one bud aloneiWhich earbud can operate alone. This does not mean two earbuds can play from different sources.

Either bud6Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/en-euro/guide/airpods/dev57e5b7e58/webRead 5 October 2026Set the microphone location says either earbud works as the microphone when used alone. No simultaneous independent source playback inferred.

Either bud4Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 2026Printed page 18 explicitly states single-earbud mono listening, with stereo when both are connected.

RGB lighting

Not available

Not available

Drivers and sound

8 of 17 differ

Drivers per budiAudio transducers in one earbud. Rows distinguish their type, acoustic role and published diameter. Do not count microphones.

AApple AirPods 2

Not available

BSamsung Galaxy Buds Live

Type	Role	Diameter (mm)	Count per earbud
Dynamic	Full range	12	1

Source2Maker product pagesamsung.com/ie/business/audio-sound/galaxy-buds/galaxy-buds-live-r180-sm-r180nzkaeuaRead 7 October 20263Press releasenews.samsung.com/us/galaxy-watch3-buds-live-available-unpacked-2020Read 5 October 20268Review52audio.com/archives/55430.htmlRead 7 October 2026Original purchased-unit teardown shows one 12 mm dynamic transducer per earbud.

Driver typeiPublished transducer technology. High-excursion, composite and neodymium do not by themselves establish a driver type.

Not available

Dynamic8Review52audio.com/archives/55430.htmlRead 7 October 2026Original exact Galaxy Buds Live teardown identifies the transducer as a dynamic loudspeaker (Chinese label for a moving-coil speaker) and separately measures approximately 12 mm. This fills the explicit driver technology field without changing the pre-existing driver table.

Driver sizeiLargest explicitly published circular driver diameter in one earbud. A rectangular driver width is not a diameter.

Not available

12mm=CalculatedFrom Drivers per bud

Drivers per budiTotal audio transducers in one earbud, summed from explicit driver quantities. A row with an unknown quantity makes the total unknown.

Not available

1=CalculatedFrom Drivers per bud

Diaphragm material

Not available

Not available

Frequency responseiPublished acoustic frequency response of the earbuds. Codec transmission bandwidth alone does not qualify. Conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Impedance

23Ω30Reviewheadphonesty.com/2021/07/review-apple-airpodsRead 7 October 2026Bought-and-tested second-generation review, Wireless Charging Case box explicitly identified. Technical Specifications table publishes 23 Ohm. Secondary published internal-driver impedance specification, no maker value found. Not labeled a laboratory measurement, so not put in a measured field. 109 dB sensitivity lacks reference and is omitted. 5 Hz-21 kHz response conflicts Coolblue 61 Hz-21 kHz and is omitted.

Not available

SensitivityiPublished acoustic sensitivity. The electrical reference and frequency must be stated in sensitivity_reference or the source note.

Not available

Not available

Sensitivity reference

Not available

Not available

Max sample rateiHighest supported audio sample rate under the codec and source-device conditions in the source note. This does not establish lossless playback.

Not available

Not available

Max bit depthiHighest supported audio bit depth under the codec and source-device conditions in the source note. Bluetooth version alone does not establish this.

Not available

Not available

Adaptive EQiAn inner mic tunes the sound to your ear in real time

No17Maker product pageapple.com/ph/airpods/compareRead 7 October 2026Exact AirPods (2nd generation) column, ninth product in public comparison data. Adaptive EQ row explicitly labels Adaptive EQ unavailable.

Not available

Personalised soundiA profile from a hearing test or ear scan

Not available

Not available

Onboard EQ

Not available

Yes19Reviewandroidcentral.com/samsung-galaxy-buds-pro-vs-samsung-galaxy-buds-liveRead 7 October 2026Exact Pro-versus-Live comparison explicitly calls the equalizer onboard and says both models share six defined presets without creating or saving custom presets. Applies to built-in preset EQ, not a custom multi-band equalizer. No extra onboard user-profile capacity is claimed.

Custom EQ bandsiNumber of independently adjustable custom equalizer frequency bands. Availability may require current firmware, an app or a compatible device.

Not available

Not available

EQ presetsiNamed equalizer sound presets. Noise-control modes and spatial-audio modes are separate features.

Not available

Normal, Bass boost, Soft, Dynamic, Clear, Treble boost9Measurementsoundguys.com/samsung-galaxy-buds-live-review-37245Read 5 October 2026Six named sound presets. No custom adjustable band count is established.

Volume limit

Not available

Not available

Spatial audio

2 of 2 differ

Spatial audioiNamed spatial or surround audio processing supported with the source and platform conditions stated in the source note.

Not available

Samsung 360 Audio10Maker product pagedoc.samsungmobile.com/SM-R180/013264200805/eng.htmlRead 5 October 2026R180XXU0AVC2, April 4, 2022, adds 360 Audio for Galaxy phones and tablets with One UI 3.1 or later.12Maker product pagesamsung.com/uk/support/mobile-devices/how-to-use-360-audio-on-galaxy-buds-pro-buds2-and-buds-liveRead 5 October 2026

Head trackingiSpatial audio changes with head movement. Static spatial processing alone does not qualify. Compatible device or content requirements belong in the source note.

No12Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/en-sg/guide/airpods/dev00eb7e0a3/webRead 5 October 2026Current Spatial Audio/head tracking eligibility names AirPods 3/4/5, Pro and Max. AirPods 2 is excluded. No later-generation spatial or personalised ear-scan feature is inherited.

Yes12Maker product pagesamsung.com/uk/support/mobile-devices/how-to-use-360-audio-on-galaxy-buds-pro-buds2-and-buds-liveRead 5 October 2026June 15, 2022 exact Buds Live eligibility paragraph requires latest software. The same page defines 360 Audio as following head movement and changing left/right levels. This maker statement takes priority over SoundGuys saying Live lacks head tracking. This is a later firmware feature, not inferred from gyro presence.

Noise cancelling

4 of 11 differ

Active noise cancelling

No14Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-airpods-review-11072Read 5 October 2026Exact review explicitly zero noise cancellation. No noise-control rows copied from Pro.

Yes1Maker product pagesearchapi.samsung.com/v6/front/b2c/product/spec/detailRead 5 October 20262Maker product pagesamsung.com/ie/business/audio-sound/galaxy-buds/galaxy-buds-live-r180-sm-r180nzkaeuaRead 7 October 2026

ANC typeiFeedforward uses exterior microphones. Feedback uses interior microphones. Hybrid uses both. Adaptive control is separate from microphone placement.

Not available

Not available

ANC microphones in both earbudsiPhysical microphones used by ANC across the pair. A shared call and ANC microphone counts once. Case microphones and vibration sensors are excluded.

Not available

Not available

Adaptive ANCiANC strength or calibration adjusts automatically to noise, fit or ear acoustics. The source note states the adjustment conditions.

Not available

Not available

ANC levelsiNumber of selectable ANC strength levels. Excludes ANC off, transparency and activity profiles unless they explicitly set distinct strength levels.

Not available

Not available

ANC attenuation (claimed)iManufacturer maximum claimed noise attenuation. Frequency and measurement conditions belong in the source note. This is not reviewer-measured overall attenuation.

Not available

Not available

Transparency mode

No17Maker product pageapple.com/ph/airpods/compareRead 7 October 2026Exact AirPods (2nd generation) column, ninth product in public comparison data. Transparency row explicitly labels Transparency mode unavailable.

Not available

Adjustable transparency

Not available

Not available

Automatic ANC and transparency blendiAutomatically blends active cancellation with ambient sound. Automatic activity-based switching between separate modes alone does not qualify.

No17Maker product pageapple.com/ph/airpods/compareRead 7 October 2026Exact AirPods (2nd generation) column, ninth product in public comparison data. Adaptive Audio row explicitly labels Adaptive Audio unavailable.

Not available

Conversation detection

No17Maker product pageapple.com/ph/airpods/compareRead 7 October 2026Exact AirPods (2nd generation) column, ninth product in public comparison data. Conversation Awareness row explicitly labels Conversation Awareness unavailable.

Not available

Wind noise reductioniA documented physical design or processing feature for reducing wind noise. The source note distinguishes mesh or shape changes from selectable processing.

Not available

Not available

Measured

7 of 23 differ

Frequency response notes (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Measured response has reduced sub-bass and emphasized midrange. The unsealed fit limits low-frequency reproduction.14Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-airpods-review-11072Read 5 October 2026Exact model lab curve and discussion. Fixture, target revision, firmware and frequency-test codec unstated. No graph points or rating converted into numerical dB.

Measured response emphasizes bass and high notes. Open fit makes the result sensitive to ear shape and placement.9Measurementsoundguys.com/samsung-galaxy-buds-live-review-37245Read 5 October 2026Published response curve and analysis. Open fit is explicitly sensitive to individual fit. No numeric target deviation or attenuation is inferred. The reviewer withheld ANC curves because unsealed fitting could not be controlled.

Bass amount (measured)iDeviation from the review source target in the bass range. Positive means more bass. Target, test method and settings belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Treble amount (measured)iDeviation from the review source target in the treble range. Positive means more treble. Values from different targets may not be directly comparable.

Not available

Not available

Deviation from target (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Consistency between fittings (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Harmonic distortion (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Sound leakage (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Noise isolation (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Noise isolation, best (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Passive isolation (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Call quality notes (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Recorded speech samples cover quiet, street and windy conditions. The review finds voice pickup usable for conference calls.14Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-airpods-review-11072Read 5 October 2026Published ideal/street/windy demos. Recording firmware and codec unstated.

Published non-standardized microphone demo. Review reports effective indoor background noise rejection and difficulty with wind.9Measurementsoundguys.com/samsung-galaxy-buds-live-review-37245Read 5 October 2026The only labelled recording is non-standardized. Review states indoor noise rejection and wind limitations. Its microphone/VPU description conflicts with the separate physical devices shown in the teardown, so it is not used for counts.

Mic low-frequency extension (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic high-frequency extension (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic speech-to-noise ratio (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Latency (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

AApple AirPods 2

Connection	Platform	Latency (ms)
Bluetooth	iOS	178

Source29Measurementstephencoyle.net/airpods-proRead 7 October 2026December 21, 2019, exact second-generation AirPods result 178 ms. 2018 iPad Pro running iOS 13 as named by author. Apple Pencil screen tap to audible earbud waveform, shotgun mic recorder. 10 Tapt events plus 9 keyboard events, 90 bpm, average 19. Includes input and software delay, not Bluetooth transport alone and not video lip-sync. Codec, firmware, case edition and loudness unstated. Case edition does not change A2031/A2032 earbud hardware. No dedicated low-latency mode inferred from Tapt's continuous audio session.

BSamsung Galaxy Buds Live

Not available

Bluetooth latency, worst (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

178ms=CalculatedFrom Latency (measured)

Not available

2.4 GHz latency, worst (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Latency in game mode (measured)iThe best case the buds can reach. Measured by a reviewer

Not available

Not available

Battery life (measured)iReviewer-tested operation from one full charge of the earbuds. Excludes case recharges. ANC, codec, connection, volume and tested edition belong in the row or source note.

AApple AirPods 2

ANC	Codec	Hours (h)
No	AAC	4.12

Source14Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-airpods-review-11072Read 5 October 2026Objective continuous playback at 75 dB with iPhone X over AAC lasts 4 h 7 min. Test firmware/app unstated. Case recharges excluded. Android 3 h 29 min prose lacks equally clear sample/codec context and is omitted.

BSamsung Galaxy Buds Live

ANC	Hours (h)
Yes	5.25

Source9Measurementsoundguys.com/samsung-galaxy-buds-live-review-37245Read 5 October 2026Five hours 15 minutes, ANC on and continuous music peaking at 75 dB SPL. Review used a Galaxy S10e and R180XXU0ATG5 firmware. Test codec and Bixby setting are unstated.

Longest tested use per chargeiHighest earbuds-only duration among stored reviewer tests. Modes and settings may differ between tests and products.

4.12h=CalculatedFrom Battery life (measured)

5.25h=CalculatedFrom Battery life (measured)

Battery life with case (measured)iReviewer-tested total including earbuds and case recharges. Do not calculate this by multiplying one-charge runtime by claimed recharge count.

Not available

Not available

Full charge time (measured)iBuds in the case, 0 to 100 %. Measured by a reviewer

30min23Measurementrtings.com/headphones/reviews/apple/airpods-2nd-generation-truly-wirelessRead 7 October 2026Public Commute/Travel verdict says earbuds take 30 minutes to fully charge. RTINGS tested Qi-case variant, Methodology 1.5, review updated 2021. Charge method defines 0 to 100 using LED time-lapse with no playback load. Firmware, case initial charge, adapter and ambient temperature unstated. This is earbuds charge, not empty-case charge.24Measurementrtings.com/headphones/tests/active-features/battery-lifeRead 7 October 2026Charge Time method: empty to full, time-lapse LED monitoring, no load while charging. Method documented separately from the model's publicly stated 30 minute result. Full lab result blocks were not accessed.

Not available

Weight per bud (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Microphones and calls

4 of 7 differ

Voice microphones in both earbudsiPhysical call and beamforming microphones across the pair. Excludes case microphones and vibration sensors. Shared ANC microphones can also count here when used for calls.

Not available

68Review52audio.com/archives/55430.htmlRead 7 October 2026Final call-noise section explicitly describes three physical MEMS microphones at different positions per earbud collecting speech with the separate bone-vibration sensor. Six physical call capsules across the pair, without claiming all six simultaneously active.

All microphones in both earbudsiEvery physical microphone across the pair, including call and ANC microphones. Shared microphones count once. Excludes the charging case and voice vibration sensors.

Not available

61Maker product pagesearchapi.samsung.com/v6/front/b2c/product/spec/detailRead 5 October 2026Six physical microphones across the pair. The separately listed VPU is not counted as a microphone.8Review52audio.com/archives/55430.htmlRead 7 October 2026Actual teardown identifies two exterior and one interior microphone per bud, plus a separate VPU. Shared roles count once.

Bone conduction voice sensoriA dedicated bone or jaw conduction sensor for detecting speech vibrations. A microphone or speech-detecting accelerometer alone does not prove this architecture.

Not available

Yes2Maker product pagesamsung.com/ie/business/audio-sound/galaxy-buds/galaxy-buds-live-r180-sm-r180nzkaeuaRead 7 October 2026Voice Pickup Unit senses jaw movement and converts vibration into voice signals.8Review52audio.com/archives/55430.htmlRead 7 October 2026Actual LIS25BATR bone-vibration sensor supplies a separate voice signal for algorithmic comparison against airborne pickup.

Mic noise reduction

Not available

DSP8Review52audio.com/archives/55430.htmlRead 7 October 2026Teardown explains algorithmic attenuation using airborne and bone-vibration signals. No AI architecture is inferred.

Call audio bandwidthiHighest supported call-audio bandwidth. Compatible phone, operating system, call app or network requirements belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic mute controliAn earbud control that mutes the microphone during calls. Includes touch or pressure gestures and physical buttons. Phone/app-only controls do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

SidetoneiHear your own voice in calls

Not available

Not available

Connectivity

7 of 18 differ

Chip

H11Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/111856Read 5 October 2026

Broadcom BCM43015 and BES30038Review52audio.com/archives/55430.htmlRead 7 October 2026Actual BCM43015 Bluetooth controller and BES3003 audio processor. MUB01 is power management and is not stored as the audio chipset.

Connections

Bluetooth5Owner's manualcdsassets.apple.com/live/6GJYWVAV/start/ma1852_airpods-2gen-qsg.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Bluetooth4Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 2026

Bluetooth

5.01Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/111856Read 5 October 2026

5.01Maker product pagesearchapi.samsung.com/v6/front/b2c/product/spec/detailRead 5 October 2026

Bluetooth codecs

SBC, AAC13Reviewsoundguys.com/airpods-2nd-generation-vs-apple-airpods-3rd-generation-61838Read 5 October 2026Exact second-generation connectivity comparison explicitly names both music codecs. No LE Audio, LC3 or lossless claim from Bluetooth version alone.

SBC, AAC, Samsung Scalable Codec3Press releasenews.samsung.com/us/galaxy-watch3-buds-live-available-unpacked-2020Read 5 October 2026

Bluetooth profiles

A2DP, HSP, HFP, AVRCP25Retailer pagecoolblue.be/fr/produit/828805/apple-airpods-2.htmlRead 7 October 2026Bluetooth section explicitly lists all four profiles for second-generation earbuds. This retailer lists wired-case MV7N2ZM/A package, whose A2031/A2032 earbud hardware is shared with A1938 wireless-case package. Only earbud Bluetooth profiles are used, no case facts inherited.

A2DP, AVRCP, HFP1Maker product pagesearchapi.samsung.com/v6/front/b2c/product/spec/detailRead 5 October 2026

LE Audio

Not available

Not available

Auracast

Not available

Not available

MultipointiConcurrent Bluetooth connections to multiple source devices. Pairing memory and switching through a manufacturer account alone do not qualify.

No21Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-airpods-review-11072Read 7 October 2026Frequently asked questions explicitly says no Bluetooth multipoint. Apple account automatic switching is a distinct feature, already retained.

No13Maker product pagesamsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS10001319Read 5 October 2026Explicit note says Galaxy earbuds cannot connect to multiple source devices simultaneously. Account switching is separate.

Multipoint devicesiMaximum source devices concurrently connected by Bluetooth, not the number remembered in pairing history.

Not available

Not available

Multipoint with LDACiMany buds turn multipoint off on LDAC

Not available

Not available

Paired devices rememberediMaximum remembered Bluetooth source pairings. This is separate from simultaneous multipoint connections.

Not available

Not available

Automatic switching between own devicesiThrough the maker's account

Yes7Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/104988Read 5 October 2026Explicit AirPods 2 compatibility. Latest host operating systems, same Apple Account and two-factor authentication required. This is account-based automatic routing, not proof of generic Bluetooth multipoint.

Yes10Maker product pagedoc.samsungmobile.com/SM-R180/013264200805/eng.htmlRead 5 October 2026Original R180XXU0AUB5 changelog, February 23, 2021, explicitly adds Auto Switching. Account pairing in the launch manual alone is not automatic switching.11Press releaseapi.samsungmobilepress.com/press-releases/samsung-one-ui-3-1-update-brings-select-powerful-features-from-the-galaxy-s21-to-the-galaxy-s20-galaxy-note20-and-galaxy-z-seriesRead 5 October 2026Original One UI 3.1 maker release explicitly includes Buds Live in Auto Switch, with later earbud firmware required. Compatible Galaxy devices use the same Samsung Account. The later US support list omits Live, so availability remains software and regional scope-qualified.

Fast pairing

Apple one-tap setup5Owner's manualcdsassets.apple.com/live/6GJYWVAV/start/ma1852_airpods-2gen-qsg.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 2 iPhone setup: open case near unlocked iPhone and follow Connect prompt. Requires compatible Apple software. Android pairing remains conventional Bluetooth.

Microsoft Swift Pair2Maker product pagesamsung.com/ie/business/audio-sound/galaxy-buds/galaxy-buds-live-r180-sm-r180nzkaeuaRead 7 October 2026PC pairing section explicitly states Microsoft Swift Pair. Samsung phone pop-up pairing is not relabelled Google Fast Pair.

Audio sharingiShare one stream with a second pair

Yes10Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/en-sg/guide/airpods/aside/iph9b2d76d2f/27/web/27Read 5 October 2026Current maker compatibility list explicitly includes all AirPods models. Requires supported iPhone/iPad and another compatible Apple/Beats pair. It is one source shared to two pairs, not multipoint.

Yes2Maker product pagesamsung.com/ie/business/audio-sound/galaxy-buds/galaxy-buds-live-r180-sm-r180nzkaeuaRead 7 October 2026Buds Together shares one phone stream to two Galaxy Buds Live pairs. This European page requires One UI 2.5 or later.3Press releasenews.samsung.com/us/galaxy-watch3-buds-live-available-unpacked-2020Read 5 October 2026Footnote 13 distinguishes One UI 2.1 sharing from One UI 2.5 scanning.

Wireless range (claimed)

Not available

10m4Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 2026Original English EU manual page 21 gives Bluetooth connection range 10 m, varying by environment. Troubleshooting also calls 10 m the maximum Bluetooth range. Obstacles and interference can reduce usable range. Not a measured range.

Wireless receiveri2.4 GHz dongle

None22Reviewrtings.com/headphones/reviews/apple/airpods-2nd-generation-truly-wirelessRead 7 October 2026Public Wireless Gaming verdict explicitly Bluetooth-only headphones. No proprietary 2.4 GHz receiver route. Variants section says actual test unit used Qi wireless charging case.

Not available

Receiver connector

Not available

Not available

Simultaneous 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth audioiBoth connection types can play audio together. Quick switching between independent modes does not qualify.

No22Reviewrtings.com/headphones/reviews/apple/airpods-2nd-generation-truly-wirelessRead 7 October 2026Same Bluetooth-only verdict excludes a concurrent proprietary 2.4 GHz audio route. This does not confuse Bluetooth's radio frequency with a dedicated 2.4 GHz mode.

Not available

Latency

1 of 3 differ

Low latency mode

Not available

Yes3Press releasenews.samsung.com/us/galaxy-watch3-buds-live-available-unpacked-2020Read 5 October 2026Footnote 12: Samsung Android P or later, Gaming Optimizing Service 2.1.02 or later, Samsung Scalable Codec and Galaxy Wearable Labs.

Claimed latency

Not available

Not available

Lowest claimed latency

Not available

Not available

Compatibility

3 of 4 differ

PlatformsiPlatforms with documented audio support. App availability and advanced features can be more limited. Edition-specific support is listed in variants.

iOS, macOS, Android8Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/108786Read 5 October 2026

Android, iOS, Windows, Other13Maker product pagesamsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS10001319Read 5 October 2026Exact Buds Live iOS app and call support, Android audio/calls and generic PC/TV/watch Bluetooth audio. The other platform row describes TV/watch, not game consoles. PC microphone support is not asserted.

Connection per platformiDocumented audio connection for each platform. USB-C phone routes require a compatible port. Platform edition and microphone restrictions belong in source notes or feature requirements.

AApple AirPods 2

Platform	Connection	Microphone works
iOS	Bluetooth	Not available
macOS	Bluetooth	Not available
Android	Bluetooth	Yes

Source8Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/108786Read 5 October 2026Mac pairing and Android/non-Apple Bluetooth headset chapter. Siri and Apple integration are unavailable on Android. The Android listen-and-talk statement proves its microphone path. No gaming-console compatibility inferred from generic Bluetooth.

BSamsung Galaxy Buds Live

Platform	Connection	Microphone works
Android	Bluetooth	Yes
iOS	Bluetooth	Yes
Windows	Bluetooth	Not available
Other	Bluetooth	Not available

Source13Maker product pagesamsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS10001319Read 5 October 2026

Features that need a specific deviceiDevice, operating system, firmware, codec, content, account or region requirements for a named feature.

AApple AirPods 2

Feature	Needs
Headphone Accommodations and Custom Audio Setup	Supported iPhone or iPad with iOS or iPadOS 14 or later. Settings > Accessibility > Audio & Visual > Headphone Accommodations.

Source26Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/102663Read 7 October 2026Exact compatibility list includes AirPods 2. Current Custom Audio Setup compares audio samples and suggests settings based on preferences. This is host accessibility customization, not proof of a hearing threshold test, ear scan or onboard EQ. No Mac support for AirPods 2 inferred from Pro 2-only Mac guide.

BSamsung Galaxy Buds Live

Feature	Needs
Original mobile companion apps	Original manual specifies Android 5.0 or later with at least 1.5 GB RAM, or iPhone 7 or later with iOS 10 or later. Current app requirements can differ.
Bixby voice wake-up	Compatible Samsung phone, Samsung Account and network connection. Enable voice wake-up in Galaxy Wearable.
Microsoft Swift Pair	Windows 10 April 2018 update or later and Swift Pair notifications enabled.
Gaming mode	Samsung Android P or later host, Gaming Optimizing Service 2.1.02 or later and Samsung Scalable Codec. Enable in Galaxy Wearable Labs.
Buds Together	One source shares audio with a second Galaxy Buds Live pair. Original US release requires One UI 2.1 for sharing and One UI 2.5 for scanning. Exact European product page specifies One UI 2.5.
Auto Switch	Introduced by R180XXU0AUB5 in February 2021. Compatible Galaxy devices with One UI 3.1 or later and the same Samsung Account. Availability varies by region and software.
360 Audio and head tracking	360 Audio introduced by R180XXU0AVC2 in April 2022 for Galaxy phones and tablets with One UI 3.1 or later. Samsung UK describes movement tracking for Buds Live with updated software. App and content support vary.
SmartThings Find offline finding	Powered earbuds, Samsung Account and offline finding enabled on a compatible Galaxy phone or tablet. Android 8 or later host. Find nodes do not provide exact precision location.

Source2Maker product pagesamsung.com/ie/business/audio-sound/galaxy-buds/galaxy-buds-live-r180-sm-r180nzkaeuaRead 7 October 2026Bixby requires Samsung Account and network access. Swift Pair requires Windows 10 April 2018 or later and enabled pairing notifications.3Press releasenews.samsung.com/us/galaxy-watch3-buds-live-available-unpacked-2020Read 5 October 20264Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 2026Printed page 34 Labs includes Relieve pressure with ambient sound only when ANC is off. This does not establish ordinary amplified transparency or a medically cleared hearing-aid function. Those fields are omitted.10Maker product pagedoc.samsungmobile.com/SM-R180/013264200805/eng.htmlRead 5 October 2026Later software features are not attributed to 2020 launch firmware. The AUB5 Hearing aid label gives no documented mild/moderate hearing-loss amplification or medical clearance, so that field is omitted.11Press releaseapi.samsungmobilepress.com/press-releases/samsung-one-ui-3-1-update-brings-select-powerful-features-from-the-galaxy-s21-to-the-galaxy-s20-galaxy-note20-and-galaxy-z-seriesRead 5 October 202612Maker product pagesamsung.com/uk/support/mobile-devices/how-to-use-360-audio-on-galaxy-buds-pro-buds2-and-buds-liveRead 5 October 202615Maker product pagesamsung.com/uk/apps/smartthings-findRead 5 October 2026

Official licence

Not available

Not available

Battery and charging

10 of 13 differ

Battery per budiBattery cell capacity of one earbud. The source note states typical or rated capacity. Charging input current is not capacity.

Not available

60mAh1Maker product pagesearchapi.samsung.com/v6/front/b2c/product/spec/detailRead 5 October 2026Typical capacity of one earbud.

User-replaceable earbud batteryiThe maker documents normal battery replacement by the user with its approved procedure and tools. Service or recycling disassembly does not count.

Not available

Not available

Claimed battery lifeiManufacturer maximum runtime under the stated mode, codec and spatial processing state. Name the spatial or immersive processing mode and other conditions in source notes. Omit unspecified settings. with_case false means one charge of the earbuds. true means earbuds plus case recharges.

AApple AirPods 2

Mode	Includes case recharges	Hours (h)
ANC off	No	5
ANC off	Yes	24
Call	No	3

Source1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/111856Read 5 October 2026Up to 5 h earbuds-only. More than 24 h including case, stored as a lower bound of 24. Maker February 2019 preproduction test paired iPhone Xs Max, 50% volume, 358 iTunes tracks encoded at 256 kbps AAC. File encoding does not establish transmitted Bluetooth codec, so codec omitted. Playback ends when the first earbud stops. Case-inclusive test repeats recharge and playback to empty.28Maker product pageapple.com/eg/airpods-2nd-generation/specsRead 7 October 2026AirPods battery row explicitly up to 3 hours talk time from one earbud charge. Only earbuds-only call row used. This is same A2031/A2032 hardware as the wireless-case package. Page case-inclusive 18 h is labeled Lightning case and is not borrowed for A1938. Test call conditions not exposed in this readable page. No codec, volume, host or firmware inferred.

BSamsung Galaxy Buds Live

Mode	Includes case recharges	Hours (h)
ANC on	No	6
ANC on	Yes	21
ANC on	No	5.5
ANC on	Yes	20
ANC off	No	8
ANC off	Yes	29
ANC off	No	6
ANC off	Yes	21
Call	No	4.5
Call	Yes	17
Call	No	5.5
Call	Yes	19

Source1Maker product pagesearchapi.samsung.com/v6/front/b2c/product/spec/detailRead 5 October 2026Internal testing used pre-production earbuds and a recently released Galaxy phone, ANC on and Bixby voice wake-up off. Exact phone, firmware, codec and volume are unstated. The six-hour music figure plus 15 additional case hours is 21 total.3Press releasenews.samsung.com/us/galaxy-watch3-buds-live-available-unpacked-2020Read 5 October 2026Music rows 1-2: ANC on and Bixby voice wake-up off, 6/21 hours. Rows 3-4: both on, 5.5/20. Rows 5-6: both off, 8/29. Rows 7-8: ANC off and Bixby on, 6/21. Call rows 9-10: ANC on, 4.5/17. Rows 11-12: ANC off, 5.5/19. Case totals include the initial earbud charge. Codec, volume and call Bixby setting are unstated.

Longest claimed use per chargeiHighest earbuds-only runtime among all stored modes. This can be ANC off, Hearing Aid, heart-rate or call use. Read the battery table and source conditions.

5h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

8h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Playback per charge with ANC (claimed)iHighest claimed earbuds-only playback with ANC enabled. Codec and spatial-audio conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

6h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Playback per charge without ANC (claimed)iHighest claimed earbuds-only playback with ANC disabled. Codec and volume conditions belong in the source note.

5h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

8h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Total with case (claimed)iHighest claimed runtime including the initial earbud charge and all case recharges. It is not the case recharge runtime alone.

24h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

29h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Total with case and ANC (claimed)iClaimed total playback with ANC, including the initial earbud charge and case recharges.

Not available

21h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Talk time (claimed)

3h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

5.5h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Full charge time, budsiTime to charge discharged earbuds to full in the case. Excludes charging the case itself or a combined buds-and-case result.

Not available

Not available

Charging guidanceiPublished charging guidance or estimates that do not separate earbuds and case. Preserve the maker’s component scope and limits. Do not assign an unspecified or combined estimate to a component-specific numeric field.

Not available

Not available

Quick charge timeiCharge duration corresponding to quick_charge_playback_h. Source note states earbuds-only or case-inclusive charging and playback settings.

15min1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/111856Read 5 October 2026

5min2Maker product pagesamsung.com/ie/business/audio-sound/galaxy-buds/galaxy-buds-live-r180-sm-r180nzkaeuaRead 7 October 2026Five minutes of earbud charging.3Press releasenews.samsung.com/us/galaxy-watch3-buds-live-available-unpacked-2020Read 5 October 2026

Earbud playback after quick chargeiEarbuds-only runtime after quick_charge_min of charging. A claimed case-inclusive total does not qualify. ANC, codec and volume conditions belong in the source note.

3h1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/111856Read 5 October 2026Maker 15 min in the case with drained earbuds provides up to 3 h earbuds-only playback. Same February 2019 iPhone/playlist/50% volume test. Not a claim for charging the case itself.

1h2Maker product pagesamsung.com/ie/business/audio-sound/galaxy-buds/galaxy-buds-live-r180-sm-r180nzkaeuaRead 7 October 2026One hour with earbuds below 30 percent when charging starts. ANC, Bixby, codec, host and volume are unstated for this claim.3Press releasenews.samsung.com/us/galaxy-watch3-buds-live-available-unpacked-2020Read 5 October 2026Footnotes 17 and 20 require earbuds below 30 percent when charging starts. Playback mode is unstated.

Charging case

2 of 10 differ

Case batteryiCharging-case battery cell capacity. The source note distinguishes typical, rated and output capacity. USB output capacity alone does not qualify.

398mAh15Reviewifixit.com/Teardown/AirPods+2+Teardown/121471Read 5 October 2026Steps 4/10 exact A1938 case marking and A1596 battery: 398 mAh, 3.81 V, 1.52 Wh. This is case-cell capacity, not earbuds or output capacity. Earbud 93 mWh is not converted to mAh. Teardown quoted original case 40 g corroborates exact standalone maker case sheet 111860, preferred over shared mixed-case 38.2 g row 111856.

472mAh1Maker product pagesearchapi.samsung.com/v6/front/b2c/product/spec/detailRead 5 October 2026Typical cell capacity, not charging output capacity.

User-replaceable case batteryiThe maker documents normal case battery replacement by the user with its approved procedure and tools. Service or recycling disassembly does not count.

Not available

Not available

Case charging port

Lightning1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/111856Read 5 October 2026

USB-C4Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 2026Printed pages 6-8 identify case USB-C and the supplied charging cable. Cable length and the opposite connector are unstated.

Case full charge timeiBy cable, 0 to 100 %. A time the maker gives with the earbuds inside the case counts, and the source note says so.

Not available

Not available

Wireless charging

Yes1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/111856Read 5 October 2026

Yes3Press releasenews.samsung.com/us/galaxy-watch3-buds-live-available-unpacked-2020Read 5 October 20264Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 2026

Wireless standardsiDocumented case charging standards or supported chargers. Magnetic alignment alone does not establish Qi2 certification.

Qi1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/111856Read 5 October 2026

Qi3Press releasenews.samsung.com/us/galaxy-watch3-buds-live-available-unpacked-2020Read 5 October 20264Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 2026Printed pages 11-12 show case coil charging and Wireless PowerShare. Original maker spec table explicitly confirms Qi.

Wireless charging poweriHighest wireless charging input the maker states for the case. The output of a charging pad does not count.

Not available

Not available

Speaker in caseiAn audio speaker physically in the charging case, for locating or status sounds. A microphone in the case is separate.

Not available

Not available

Screen on case

Not available

Not available

Case works as audio transmitteriCase relays external source audio through USB or an analog audio input. A case microphone for recording or calls does not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Controls

3 of 5 differ

ControlsiPressure is a force sensor that does not move, such as a stem you squeeze. Button is a key that moves when pressed.

Touch, Voice commands5Owner's manualcdsassets.apple.com/live/6GJYWVAV/start/ma1852_airpods-2gen-qsg.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 1 double tap on an earbud and hands-free Hey Siri. Case pairing button is not an earbud playback control.

Touch, Voice commands4Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 2026

Earbud volume controliHow earbud controls adjust volume, including a voice command if supported. Phone or app controls alone do not qualify.

Voice3Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2019/03/airpods-the-worlds-most-popular-wireless-headphones-are-getting-even-betterRead 5 October 2026Original release explicitly says hands-free Hey Siri can adjust volume. There is no stem swipe or physical volume button.

Touch4Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 2026Printed page 28: assign volume to touch-and-hold, right increases and left decreases. This occupies both hold assignments.

Gestures

Double tap5Owner's manualcdsassets.apple.com/live/6GJYWVAV/start/ma1852_airpods-2gen-qsg.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Single, double and triple tap, Touch and hold4Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 2026

Remappable controls

Yes6Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/en-euro/guide/airpods/dev57e5b7e58/webRead 5 October 2026AirPods 1/2 double-tap action can be selected separately for each earbud. No arbitrary extra gesture or dedicated mute control inferred.

Yes4Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 2026Printed page 25 assigns distinct touch-and-hold functions to each side. Disabling touch is a separate setting.

Voice assistant

Siri5Owner's manualcdsassets.apple.com/live/6GJYWVAV/start/ma1852_airpods-2gen-qsg.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Bixby4Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 2026Printed pages 26-27 document Bixby through hold or Hi, Bixby voice wake-up on a compatible Samsung device.

Sensors and health

3 of 9 differ

In-ear detection

Yes6Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/en-euro/guide/airpods/dev57e5b7e58/webRead 5 October 2026Turn off automatic ear detection describes stop/resume when removed/reinserted. Settings and ecosystem features require supported Apple hosts.

Yes9Measurementsoundguys.com/samsung-galaxy-buds-live-review-37245Read 5 October 2026Removal pauses audio. Reinsertion does not automatically resume it.

Sensors

Dual optical sensors, Motion-detecting accelerometer, Speech-detecting accelerometer1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/111856Read 5 October 2026Published sensor types. Dual beamforming microphones lack an explicit per-earbud count scope, so no physical microphone count is inferred. A speech-detecting accelerometer is not proof of a bone-conduction sensor.

Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity sensor, Hall sensor, Touch sensor, Grip sensor, Voice Pickup Unit1Maker product pagesearchapi.samsung.com/v6/front/b2c/product/spec/detailRead 5 October 2026

Heart rate sensor

Not available

Not available

Skin temperature sensingiA documented skin temperature sensor. This is separate from the operating temperature range or a heart-rate sensor.

Not available

Not available

Hearing aid featureiAmplification for mild to moderate hearing loss

No17Maker product pageapple.com/ph/airpods/compareRead 7 October 2026Exact AirPods (2nd generation) column, ninth product in public comparison data. Hearing Health row explicitly labels Hearing health unavailable. Footnote 10 limits Hearing Test and Hearing Aid to AirPods Pro 2 and later. Live Listen is a separate host-microphone accessibility route.

Not available

Medical clearances

Not available

Not available

Hearing testiA documented hearing assessment feature, including consumer sound-personalization tests. Medical diagnostic clearance must be stated separately.

Not available

Not available

Hearing protectioniLimits sudden loud sounds

No17Maker product pageapple.com/ph/airpods/compareRead 7 October 2026Exact AirPods (2nd generation) column, ninth product in public comparison data. Hearing Health row explicitly labels Hearing health unavailable. Refers to environmental hearing protection, not phone media volume limits.

Not available

Health features

Not available

Not available

Fit and durability

2 of 7 differ

Ear tips includediTip sizes supplied with the product, including the pair fitted to the earbuds. Do not list separately sold sizes as included.

Not available

Not available

Ear tip materials

Not available

Not available

StabilisersiPhysical stabilizing fittings or structures. Stability bands are separate from fins, wings and ear hooks.

Not available

Wing tips4Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 2026Printed pages 5 and 7: wing tips. Small and large wings stabilize the outer ear. They are not canal-sealing ear tips.

Ear tip fit test

Not available

Not available

Dust and water rating, buds

Not available

IPX23Press releasenews.samsung.com/us/galaxy-watch3-buds-live-available-unpacked-2020Read 5 October 2026

Dust and water rating, case

Not available

Not available

Water resistance depth

Not available

Not available

Software

4 of 6 differ

Companion app

Not available

Galaxy Wearable (Android), Samsung Galaxy Buds (iOS) and Galaxy Buds (Windows)4Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 202613Maker product pagesamsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS10001319Read 5 October 202614Maker product pagesamsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS10001316Read 5 October 2026

App platforms

Not available

Android, iOS, Windows4Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 2026Printed pages 18-19 establish Android and iOS apps. Current Windows app has its own maker source.13Maker product pagesamsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS10001319Read 5 October 2026Galaxy Buds Live supports the Samsung Galaxy Buds iOS app. Android original and current minimum OS requirements differ.14Maker product pagesamsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS10001316Read 5 October 2026Current Galaxy Buds PC app list explicitly includes Buds Live on Windows. The older Galaxy Buds Manager for Mac/Windows explicitly excludes Live and is not inherited.

User firmware updates

Yes9Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/106340Read 5 October 2026Exact AirPods 2 appears in current firmware list at 6F21. Updates are delivered while charging near a Wi-Fi-connected iPhone, iPad or Mac. No Android updater or future feature promise inferred.

Yes4Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 202610Maker product pagedoc.samsungmobile.com/SM-R180/013264200805/eng.htmlRead 5 October 202614Maker product pagesamsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS10001316Read 5 October 2026

Finding network

Last location in the app11Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/en-am/guide/airpods/dev8e8b93d71/webRead 5 October 2026Find My works with all models, but the explicit offline Find My network list excludes AirPods 2. Its app shows the last connected time/place when offline. No crowd-based offline network claimed.

Samsung Find15Maker product pagesamsung.com/uk/apps/smartthings-findRead 5 October 2026Offline finding eligibility explicitly includes Galaxy Buds Live. Powered buds, Samsung Account and enabled offline finding on Android 8 or later Galaxy phone/tablet. Not UWB precision finding.

Precision findingiUWB in the case

No11Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/en-am/guide/airpods/dev8e8b93d71/webRead 5 October 2026Current guide reserves UWB case precision finding for AirPods Pro 2/3. It is not supported by A1938.

Not available

Live translation

Not available

Not available

Dimensions and weight

4 of 4 differ

Weight per budiMass of one earbud. Tip size and approximate values belong in the source note. Do not store pair or case-inclusive mass.

4g(0.1 oz)1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/111856Read 5 October 2026

5.6g(0.2 oz)1Maker product pagesearchapi.samsung.com/v6/front/b2c/product/spec/detailRead 5 October 2026One earbud, not the pair.

Bud dimensionsiDimensions of one earbud on the explicitly identified width, height and depth axes. An unlabeled tuple cannot establish those axes.

Width16.5Height40.5Depth18mm(0.6 × 1.6 × 0.7 in)1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/111856Read 5 October 2026Size and Weight explicitly labels width, height and depth for each earbud. These are not dimensions of the pair.

Width16.5Height27.3Depth14.9mm(0.6 × 1.1 × 0.6 in)1Maker product pagesearchapi.samsung.com/v6/front/b2c/product/spec/detailRead 5 October 2026Explicit H x W x D: 27.3 x 16.5 x 14.9 mm.

Case weightiCharging case mass excluding earbuds. Case-inclusive product mass does not qualify unless the source explicitly gives the empty-case figure.

40g(1.4 oz)27Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/111860Read 7 October 2026Exact 2019 Wireless Charging Case technical sheet: 40 g, empty standalone case, compatible with AirPods 1 and 2. Apple Identify Your AirPods 109525 maps this 2019 Qi case to A1938. More specific A1938-only maker row takes precedence over shared Lightning-or-Wireless 38.2 g row 111856, which remains a documented contradiction. Not applicable to wired A1602. Exact-case primary source resolution approved by manager.

42.2g(1.5 oz)1Maker product pagesearchapi.samsung.com/v6/front/b2c/product/spec/detailRead 5 October 2026Case mass excludes earbuds.

Case dimensionsiCharging-case width, height and depth on explicitly identified source axes. Report conflicting axis labels rather than reorder a tuple by appearance.

Width44.3Height53.5Depth21.3mm(1.7 × 2.1 × 0.8 in)1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/111856Read 5 October 2026Exact published case axis labels. The same body dimensions are listed for both case versions.

Width50Height50.2Depth27.8mm(2 × 2 × 1.1 in)1Maker product pagesearchapi.samsung.com/v6/front/b2c/product/spec/detailRead 5 October 2026Explicit H x W x D: 50.2 x 50.0 x 27.8 mm. These unusual published axes agree with the original US specification table and are not reordered by appearance.

Certifications

1 of 3 differ

Hi-Res AudioiThe Japan Audio Society logos. Hi-Res Audio Wireless is also written Hi-Res Wireless Audio.

Not available

Not available

Communication certifications

Not available

Not available

FCC IDs

BCG-A2031, BCG-A203216Owner's manualcdsassets.apple.com/live/6GJYWVAV/information/ma1861_airpods-2nd-gen-wireless-case-info.pdfRead 5 October 2026Original 20-page Wireless Charging Case package safety/regulatory leaflet. US Certification Number table explicitly gives both earbud FCC IDs. No charging-case FCC identifier inferred.

A3LSMR180L, A3LSMR180R20Regulatory filingfccid.io/A3LSMR180R/User-Manual/user-manual-4797715.pdfRead 7 October 2026Samsung-submitted regulatory user document, PDF page 13, explicitly identifies A3LSMR180L for left ear, A3LSMR180R for right ear and Model Number SM-R180. Pair IDs only. No FCC ID assigned to the non-radio charging case. Original shared SM-R180 hardware, not a later Galaxy Buds model.

Other certifications

Not available

UL Verification for low-frequency active noise cancellation2Maker product pagesamsung.com/ie/business/audio-sound/galaxy-buds/galaxy-buds-live-r180-sm-r180nzkaeuaRead 7 October 2026Exact original SM-R180NZKAEUA maker page states ANC received UL Verification for cutting background noise by up to 97 percent in low-frequency bands. This is the maker statement of UL verification, not an inferred Hi-Res or medical certification. The percentage is not converted into a claimed decibel value.

In the box

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In the box

AirPods 2, Wireless Charging Case, Lightning to USB-A cable, Documentation1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/111856Read 5 October 2026Wireless A1938 package only. Cable length unstated. No adapter supplied in the published complete list.

Galaxy Buds Live earbuds, Charging case, Wing tips in S and L, Quick Start Guide, USB-C charging cable1Maker product pagesearchapi.samsung.com/v6/front/b2c/product/spec/detailRead 5 October 2026

Cables included

AApple AirPods 2

Type	Count
Lightning to USB-A cable	1

Source1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/111856Read 5 October 2026

BSamsung Galaxy Buds Live

Type	Count
USB-C charging cable	1

Source4Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 2026

Links

Not compared

Product page

support.apple.com/en-us/1118561Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/111856Read 5 October 2026

www.samsung.com/ie/business/audio-sound/galaxy-buds/galaxy-buds-live-r180-sm-r180nzkaeua2Maker product pagesamsung.com/ie/business/audio-sound/galaxy-buds/galaxy-buds-live-r180-sm-r180nzkaeuaRead 7 October 2026Exact SM-R180NZKAEUA European product page. The old UK business URL returned 404, while this original same-SKU Irish page remains readable.

Spec sheet

support.apple.com/en-us/1118561Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/111856Read 5 October 2026Exact 2019 AirPods 2. Reference package uses Wireless Charging Case A1938. The standard wired-only A1602 package is excluded from this file. Current shared case weight 38.2 g conflicts with the contemporary A1938 teardown specification of 40 g. Case weight now uses 40 g from the exact standalone Wireless Charging Case maker sheet 111860, which is more specific than this mixed-case row. Contradiction remains source-qualified. No standalone maker PDF datasheet found.

news.samsung.com/us/galaxy-watch3-buds-live-available-unpacked-20203Press releasenews.samsung.com/us/galaxy-watch3-buds-live-available-unpacked-2020Read 5 October 2026Original Galaxy Buds Live Product Specifications table, distinct from the Galaxy Watch3 table above it.

Manual

cdsassets.apple.com/live/6GJYWVAV/start/ma1852_airpods-2gen-qsg.pdf5Owner's manualcdsassets.apple.com/live/6GJYWVAV/start/ma1852_airpods-2gen-qsg.pdfRead 5 October 2026Original 2019 two-page Quick Start Guide for the Wireless Charging Case package, linked by Apple document identity 300122. Both sides read. Current complete user-guide chapters separately establish remapping and wear detection.

org.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspx4Owner's manualorg.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspxRead 7 October 2026Original SM-R180 EU English manual, August 2020 revision 1.1. Downloaded and read. Printed page 23 fitting illustration was visually inspected.

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Warranty

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Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

1year19Maker product pageapple.com/legal/warranty/products/accessory-warranty-english.htmlRead 7 October 2026Apple One (1) Year Limited Warranty for Accessories, Worldwide English version, November 9, 2023. Apple-branded hardware and included accessories covered for one year from original retail purchase. US reference package, statutory rights separate.

1year16Maker product pagesamsung.com/uk/support/warrantyRead 5 October 2026UK manufacturer warranty: Galaxy Buds and wireless headphones, 12 months. Statutory consumer rights are not substituted for this warranty.

Both are also in the API. Back to all earbuds.