>>I am brazilian and I speak portuguese, so forgive my english, I’ll use translation tools to help<<
INTRO:
Samsung’s FE – Fan Edition – product line was created with the intention of bringing some features of the brand’s premium equipment to more accessible equipment. Furthermore, many of the features that the FE line has were implemented because of consumer feedback. The Galaxy BUDS FE wireless earphones then emerge as a more affordable alternative to the company’s TOTL earphones.
Price: $99 USD
Colors: Graphite or White
Samsung reviews: Buds 2
Samsung Links:
SPECIFICATIONS:
– (1) Dynamic Driver (DD) per side
– Touch Controls
– Bluetooth 5.2
– Codecs: AAC, SBC, SSC (Samsung Codec)
– Bluetooth Profile : HFP, A2DP, AVRCP
– ANC – Active noise cancellation
– Ambient Sound
– Signal range: 10 meters
– Bixby – intelligent voice assistant
– SmartThings Find
– Galaxy Wearable App – customization and EQ
– Battery life: 6h/total 21h (ANC On), 8.5h/total 30h (ANC Off)
– Compatible OS: Android 8 (or higher), iOS, Windows
– 3 Microphones (2 external + 1 internal) per side
– Sensors: Proximity, Touch, Hall
– Waterproof level (Earbuds): IPX2
– Earphones battery: 60mAh
– Case battery: 479mAh
– Charging via cable (USB-C)
– USB-C power supply: input 5V 900mA
– Case size: 5cm [H] × 5cm [W] × 2.7cm [D]
– Weight: 5.5g (one side)(without tips)
– Case weight: 40.4g (without earphones)
– Total weight (box, earphones, etc): 136.5g
– Packaging size: 9.5cm [H] x 8.5cm [W] x 4.2cm [D]
UNBOXING:
PHYSICAL ASPECTS:
Eartips: Three pairs of eartips in sizes S/M/L were included. The stock eartips are good, very sof, I even made the review with the large size. I’d say they are “proprietary” eartips, but you can replace them with other eartips available in the market. I also tried the SpinFit CP360 eartips, and they fit perfectly and even fit inside the charging case. Another alternative could be the SpinFit CP1025. Between these two, the CP360 provided a better fixation for my ears.
Build Quality: Let’s start with the charging case. It’s essentially the same design as the one I found with the Buds 2, excellent quality, plastic but premium. The earbuds themselves maintain the same quality. The touch area is great, making it easy to control the earbuds. The commands are very responsive, and I didn’t experience any delays when controlling them.
If you noticed in the unboxing video, the right earbud fell out when I applied some force. However, I think this only happened because I exerted quite a bit of pressure, and the case was open too. Since the case has a lid, I don’t think there’s any risk of the earbuds falling out. Speaking of the lid, when closing it, it makes a somewhat annoying “clack!” sound. Even though there’s a little rubber piece inside, it doesn’t prevent that irritating noise (at least for me).
Bluetooth Signal Connectivity: I found the Buds FE to have excellent signal stability. The range was also quite impressive. I left my S22U in the bedroom and walked to the other side of the street, more than 10 meters away without any signal issues. This was even with some walls between the earbuds and my smartphone. When I connected the Buds FE to my notebook, the signal started to weaken at around 10 meters. But that’s understandable since my notebook still uses Bluetooth 4.2.
One of the features included in the Buds FE is the Auto Switch, which allows you to pair the earbuds with more than one device and seamlessly switch between them as needed. For example, if you’re using your notebook and receive a call on your smartphone, you wouldn’t need to manually disconnect from one device to use the other, the earbuds would handle this automatically. Unfortunately, I couldn’t test this function because, from what I researched, it requires Samsung devices. In other words, it’s part of the famous Samsung ecosystem, and those who have all Samsung equipment can fully utilize this feature (hey, Samsung, sponsor us!).
The Buds FE also features a proximity sensor. This sensor is responsible for the Auto-Pause function, which stops the music when you remove both earbuds from your ears. Note that the music doesn’t resume automatically when you put the earbuds back in, you’ll need to manually use the play command on the touch controls. Additionally, the earbuds have a product location feature, which works either through geolocation or sound alerts. While both options are available for the S22U, my Motorola only supports the sound alert.
Galaxy Wearable App. Some screenshots of the App below. I think the images are self-explanatory, so I won’t need talk too much.
It’s possible to install this app on non-Samsung smartphones, although some features may not be available.
Through the app, you can customize the touch controls for the Buds FE, such as Play/Pause, Volume Up or Down, ANC (Active Noise Cancellation), and Ambient Sound mode, among others. More details can be found in the User Manual at the end of this section.
Regarding the equalizer, it actually consists of pre-defined presets within the app. Unfortunately, there’s no option to create a custom equalization. There are six presets available (including the “normal” mode without equalization). This equalizer function works with smartphones from other brands as well.
Labs Mode: This feature worked only on the S22U, not on the Motorola. Its purpose is to enhance synchronization speed for smartphone gaming. In practice, I tested it both with and without Labs Mode and didn’t notice any difference, the synchronization was perfect. I should clarify that I didn’t test it in games but rather while watching YouTube videos.
ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) and Ambient Sound: I tested both features, and they performed well. The “Ambient Sound” mode works effectively, allowing you to hear surrounding sounds more easily. Personally, I find this feature more effective than ANC. As for the ANC on the Buds FE, I found it to be excellent, perhaps one of the best I’ve tried. Of course, as always, ANC only reduces certain sounds; it doesn’t completely block them out. With advancements in technology, who knows what feats we’ll achieve in the future!
In ANC mode, I tested the earbuds in front of a fan, and I noticed that wind noise was being picked up by the sound. It felt a bit strange. So, if you’re using the earbuds with ANC activated and you’re in a windy environment, it’s likely that you’ll hear the wind noise. Another detail: ANC only works when you’re using both earbuds (left and right).
Microphone: During the microphone test, I found that the Buds FE performed very well. I liked the audio quality provided by the earbuds. In a quiet environment, I could hear what I said clearly. When I tested it with a fan close to my face, the sound became slightly muffled and introduced a bit of background noise. However, I still think the quality was good/okay (I’ve tried other earbuds where it was impossible to hear anything with a fan blowing directly on the face). Obviously, using the microphone on earbuds is best for occasional situations. If someone needs a microphone for more frequent communication, investing in something more advanced might be a better choice.
Fit and Comfort: The Buds FE earbuds fit well, although I initially thought they might be quite large. In reality, they are larger than the Buds 2. A portion protrudes from the ear, which isn’t my preference for street use. The package includes two types of rubbers to “enhance” the fit. Unfortunately, the fin-like rubbers didn’t work as expected, it didn’t reach the part of the ear it should have. Well, this is a very personal experience. To date, I haven’t found any fin-like rubber better than those from Jaybird, they fit my ears correctly. Over time, the fin-shaped rubber started creating pressure points inside my ears, so I switched to the smooth rubbers, which improved things slightly. The Buds FE are lightweight and have a shape that I find comfortable for my ears. Honestly, matching the comfort of the Buds 2 might be a tough feat. The isolation is good, and the insertion is average.
User manual in this link. (in english)
SOUND ASPECTS:
We know that Samsung currently owns the Harman International group (including Harman Kardon, AKG, JBL, etc.), which makes us wonder: “Is another earbud with the Harman Target tuning on the way?” Yes, the Buds FE is another earbud with the Harman Target compensation curve. However, unlike other earbuds with this signature ones – I’ve had the chance to test – I noticed that the Buds FE has a subtle recession starting from the midrange till the end. It’s quite subtle and doesn’t alter the essence of the Harman Target, it just gives the earbuds a smoother feel. Interestingly, the Buds FE doesn’t mention being tuned by AKG on the case itself. If you recall the Buds 2, it had the phrase “Sound By AKG” inside the case.
I evaluated the Buds FE using the EQ preset in normal mode (factory sound). Unfortunately, describing the sound of each preset would be quite extensive. In summary, the presets either enhance or reduce the bass.
Bass:
Quantitative: The Buds FE delivers moderate to high bass. It has a strong presence in this frequency range and is certainly the standout aspect of the earbuds. Now, the question: Is it a basshead’s earphone? I would say yes, but there’s a key consideration here, the volume level. I imagine that someone who enjoys bass will likely appreciate the Buds FE, but it’s essential to determine whether the person prefers listening at high volumes. These bass frequencies are well-suited for more “popular” genres like EDM, hip-hop, pop, synth, indie, etc. Both the Buds FE and the Buds 2 exhibit more activity in the sub-bass region. Of course, they also have substantial mid-bass, but the primary focus is on the subs. I didn’t notice any roll-off, and the extension is excellent.
Qualitative: The bass on the Buds FE is lively, it has weight, substance, and fills the presentation. These earbuds excel at emphasizing explosive sounds in action movies; you’ll feel that vibration in your ears, that’s what we call “physicality.” However, I’ll mention that in certain situations, they can sound boomy. Of course, this depends on the type of sound you’re listening to, a simple acoustic guitar and vocal song won’t have that effect. The impact is powerful and expansive, yet it remains controlled, the bass doesn’t get out of hand. If you’re seeking a dry and fast bass, the Buds FE takes a different approach. Despite their expansiveness, I found the definition to be good, you can hear everything with excellent resolution. In my assessment, the Buds FE’s bass is very similar to that of the Buds 2.
Mids:
Quantitative and Qualitative: Let’s dive into the midrange of the Buds FE. I perceive these mids as neither too recessed nor overly forward. The word “comfort” aptly describes them. Everything here maintains a sense of engaging, nothing sounds aggressive or goes overboard. I’d say it tends to be slightly more recessed rather than forward. In terms of quality, the mids are okay, they don’t offer extreme clarity and transparency, it’s just good enough. In my opinion, the mids of the Moondrop Space Travel are slightly better than those of the Buds FE, although I wouldn’t call the Space Travel’s mids mind-blowing. Snare drums, vocals, guitars, trumpets, all sound smooth on the Buds FE.
Vocals: I confess that the Buds FE isn’t the best choice if you’re a vocal enthusiast. Its performance with vocals is average. Certainly, lower-pitched voices fare better than higher-pitched ones. Lower voices capture the warmth and texture that the bass imparts to the earbuds’ sound. However, fans of higher-pitched vocals should take note, the Buds FE might leave you feeling like it lacks a bit of energy. This is why I didn’t enjoy the earbuds with Brazilian Popular Music (MPB).
Treble:
Quantitative: I consider the treble to be moderate to subdued. In my opinion, it’s the least emphasized frequency range in these earbuds. It’s a good choice for those who prefer smoother treble without worrying about hearing fatigue. However, I felt that a bit more treble could enhance the detailing and achieve a balance that I personally appreciate. Honestly, this type of treble doesn’t pair well with jazz or classical music (but that’s subjective). I noticed a slight roll-off, and while the extension isn’t the best, you can still hear all the high-frequency sounds.
Qualitative: The treble is gentle, calm, and relaxed, devoid of harshness or coloration. It offers decent definition, although the details and the airy are somewhat limited, still acceptable for a true wireless earbud. The sparkle is subtle, it doesn’t stand out but provides what’s necessary. The Buds FE doesn’t show sibilance. While they aren’t treble performers of exceptional quality, I believe they surpass those of the Moondrop Space Travel (in my opinion). Of course, these earbuds belong to completely different price ranges. The Buds FE’s treble isn’t piercing, sharp, or fatiguing. Cymbals are presented smoothly, including ride cymbals. Hi-hats lack harshness but don’t deliver exceptional detail. Guitar solos lack significant energy.
Soundstage: The soundstage of the Buds FE impressed me, it’s surprisingly spacious. The earbuds offer excellent depth and height, creating a sense of greater amplitude. Everything feels as if it’s in a larger space.
Imaging: The instrumental separation is good, although it performs better with calmer music. In more intense tracks, the earbuds experience a slight drop in performance and can become a bit congested. For example, when listening to extreme metal genres (black, thrash, death), the Buds FE still sounds decent without causing listener fatigue, but the instrumental separation isn’t as precise as it would be with more rhythmically paced genres.
Driver Flex Test: The Buds FE didn’t exhibit any driver flex noise.
Amplification (Volume for TWS): Regarding volume, I found the Buds FE to have good output, although it’s not exceptionally loud. Even at my usual low listening volume, I could reach the maximum volume without discomfort. During my testing, I used the earbuds between Android levels 13 and 14 (out of 15 available).
Music is subjective, so below is the list of some musical genres that I personally think that was better with this IEM. Remember that were only few genres and few artists tested. If I describe that one genre was better and the other don’t, it doesn’t mean that you can’t listen to your favorite music genre with this IEM and love it. So, here goes:
Better:
Hip Hop
Reggae
EDM
POP
Rock
Blues
Metal
Samba*
*Brazilian musical genres.
Not so much:
Classical
Jazz
MPB*
Bossa Nova*
Link da Playlist:
Graphs by RTINGS:
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IEMs and Music 