Choosing the right pair of true wireless earbuds can be overwhelming, with countless options flooding the market. This in-depth comparison pits three top contenders – the Technics AZ100, Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro, and Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 – against each other in a head-to-head battle across key features. We delve into crucial aspects like microphone performance, noise cancellation, transparency mode, sound quality, and overall usability to help you determine which earbuds best suit your needs and preferences. This detailed analysis will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision, ensuring your next purchase delivers the audio experience you desire.This comparison covers a wide range of performance criteria, examining each earbud's strengths and weaknesses. We'll explore the nuances of their microphone clarity in various environments, the effectiveness of their active noise cancellation, the quality of their ambient sound modes, and the unique sonic signatures they offer. Ultimately, we aim to provide a clear picture of how these three earbuds stack up against one another, highlighting their individual merits and helping you choose the perfect pair for your lifestyle and listening habits.
Pros And Cons
- Three-way multipoint connection (up to three devices)
- Supports LDAC codec
- Layering adds 3D depth to sound
- Lower frequency tracks sound more visceral
- Access to features and settings regardless of iOS or Android
- About 10% louder at medium volume than Jabra
- Active noise cancelling doesn't cancel noise as completely as Samsung or Jabra
- More mid-range sound passes through in ANC
- Controls less convenient than Jabra
- Better noise cancelling than Technics AZ60
- Button controls are more tactile and less prone to accidental presses
- Case functions as a wireless transmitter
- Spacious, open sound stage
- Super clean track separation
- Smooth sound
- Lacks detail in the mid-range compared to Technics AZ60
- Sound is more relaxed and laid-back
- Cleanest sound in quiet and noisy conditions
- Crisper sound signature
- Amazing mic quality and transparency mode
- Convenient squeeze and stroke controls
- Access to all controls even when using one earbud
- Limited full support only available on the wearable app for Android, not iOS
- No firmware updates with iOS devices
- Only access to features like similar switching and ultra high quality audio with Samsung devices
- Doesn't support any higher codec other than their exclusive Samsung seamless codec for Samsung devices
Read more: EPZ P50 In-Ear Monitor Review: A Breakout Performer?
Microphone Pickup Comparison
This comparison focuses on microphone performance in both quiet and noisy environments. The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro consistently delivered the clearest audio, regardless of background noise. The Technics AZ100 performed similarly to the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 in quiet settings but surpassed the Jabra in noisy conditions thanks to its superior voice filtering.
A notable feature of the Technics AZ100 is its Voice Focus AI, which filters noise from both sides of the call. While effective in extremely noisy situations, it can be overly aggressive, potentially muffling the other caller's voice if their environment isn't too loud. Therefore, it is best used judiciously.
Overall, the Samsung Buds3 Pro provided the cleanest and most reliable microphone pickup in all test conditions. The Technics AZ100 offers a comparable experience in quieter scenarios, but its noise-cancelling capabilities in loud environments might be more appealing to specific users.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) Performance
In terms of default ANC settings, the Technics AZ100 provides good noise reduction but doesn't entirely eliminate mid-range frequencies as effectively as the Samsung Buds3 Pro or Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2.
While all three earbuds offer decent ANC, the Samsung and Jabra provide more comprehensive noise cancellation, especially in the mid-range frequencies. The Technics earbuds let slightly more mid-range sound through.
This difference could be a key factor for users seeking complete noise isolation. The Jabra and Samsung provide a more immersive, quieter experience in comparison.
Ambient Sound Transparency
The Technics AZ100 and Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 exhibit similar transparency modes, both allowing more mid-range frequencies to pass through than the Samsung Buds3 Pro. This leads to increased clarity for voices but reduces the overall transparency in comparison.
The Samsung Buds3 Pro's transparency mode stands out, offering incredibly clear and natural ambient sound reproduction. Removing one earbud results in a barely noticeable difference in ambient awareness. This level of transparency is superior to the other two competitors.
Choosing between the three depends heavily on your preference for voice clarity versus overall ambient noise awareness. The Samsung offers the most balanced approach.
Sound Quality Differences and Frequency Response
The Technics AZ100 boasts the strongest bass response, with prominent peaks in the low and high frequencies, but slightly recessed upper mids. The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 offers the most laid-back bass, while the Samsung Buds3 Pro emphasizes the mid-range, resulting in louder vocals.
Each earbud provides a distinct sound signature. The Technics AZ100 provides a heavy, resonant sound, whereas the Samsung Buds3 Pro has a crisper sound, characterized by clearer vocals. The Jabra strikes a balance, resulting in a more relaxed sound profile.
Personal preferences play a significant role here. Bass-lovers might lean towards the Technics. Users preferring clear vocals and a well-balanced sound might find the Samsung or Jabra more appealing. The Technics AZ100 has a more engaging sound with layering which adds depth
Which Earbuds Should You Buy?
The Technics AZ100 and Samsung Buds3 Pro offer similar sound quality in their default settings. However, the Technics AZ100 produces a heavier, more resonant sound, while the Samsung Buds3 Pro delivers a crisper, clearer output. The Technics AZ100’s layering adds a 3D depth to the sound, making it slightly more immersive.
The Samsung Buds3 Pro excels in microphone quality and transparency mode. It also boasts superior controls, offering full functionality even with a single earbud in use. The Technics AZ100 however, distinguishes itself with three-way multipoint connectivity, enabling simultaneous pairing with three devices across multiple platforms.
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 has a more relaxed, laid-back sound, with a spacious soundstage and clean track separation. The Jabra case also acts as a wireless transmitter; however the other two options stand out in terms of features and connectivity.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Earbuds
The best choice depends entirely on individual priorities. If you prioritize exceptional microphone quality, transparency, and intuitive controls, the Samsung Buds3 Pro is an excellent option. However, its limited compatibility with non-Samsung devices and iOS may be a drawback.
The Technics AZ100 shines with its three-way multipoint connectivity and feature-rich app compatibility across various platforms. Its unique sound signature, characterized by rich layering and heavy bass, will appeal to a certain audience. However, it's microphone quality is slightly less effective.
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 offers a comfortable fit, good noise cancellation, and a relaxed sound profile, making it a compelling choice for users who prioritize comfort and a balanced audio experience. Ultimately, careful consideration of individual needs and preferences is key in making the best selection.