6 Best Alternatives to the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live Open (2026)

How Alternatives Compare to Galaxy Buds Live

Raycon Everyday Noise Cancelling Earbuds

The Raycon Everyday ANC Earbuds shift focus from open-ear awareness to call clarity and workout durability. While the Samsung model uses a unique open design, these Raycon earbuds prioritize a secure fit that stays in place during intense movement. They feature Active Noise Cancellation similar to the Buds Live, but they include a dedicated microphone optimized for clearer voice transmission. The Raycons are slightly smaller in width and height, offering a more compact profile than the Samsung units. You should choose these if you value stable performance during exercise and clear calls over the specific open-ear aesthetic of the Galaxy Buds. They provide a reliable alternative for users who need durability without sacrificing noise cancellation.

Gymsoul Noise Cancelling Earbuds with Ear Hooks

The Gymsoul X19 ANC Earbuds differ significantly by offering a secure ear hook design and waterproof rating. Unlike the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live, which has an IPX2 splash resistance, these earbuds are fully waterproof, making them suitable for heavy sweat or rain exposure. They also support Hi-Res Audio and Deep Bass, providing a richer sound profile compared to the standard 12mm drivers in the Samsung model. The Gymsoul earbuds are designed specifically for sports and gym use, ensuring they stay put during vigorous activity. If you need long battery life and a rugged build for intense workouts, these are a practical choice. They sacrifice the open-ear style for maximum security and environmental protection.

Occiam Active Noise Cancelling Sport Earbuds

The Occiam T19 Sports ANC Earbuds provide a secure fit with ear hooks, contrasting with the open-fit design of the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live. While the Samsung model relies on its unique shape for comfort, the Occiam earbuds use hooks to ensure stability during sports and active commutes. Both feature Active Noise Cancellation, but the Occiam option is tailored for users who prioritize physical security over the ambient awareness of the open design. The Occiam earbuds are slightly heavier, adding to their robust feel. They are ideal for active users who need reliable performance in dynamic environments. If you find the Samsung fit too loose for your activities, the Occiam hooks offer a more anchored experience.

Beats Fit Pro True Wireless ANC Earbuds

The Beats Fit Pro True Wireless ANC Earbuds offer a secure wingtip design and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. Unlike the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live, which works with both Android and iOS, the Beats Fit Pro is optimized for Apple users. They provide a stable fit that prevents slipping during movement, addressing a common concern with open-ear designs. The Beats earbuds also feature sweatproof resistance, similar to the Samsung IPX2 rating, but with a focus on active use. They deliver solid noise cancellation and clear audio, though the single charge battery life is comparable to the Samsung model. Choose these if you are in the Apple ecosystem and need a secure fit that does not compromise on sound quality or connectivity.

TAGRY Hybrid ANC Earbuds with Earhooks

The TAGRY X88 Hybrid ANC Earbuds stand out with a Hybrid Driver and Transparency Mode. While the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live uses a standard 12mm driver, the TAGRY earbuds offer more advanced audio processing for clearer sound separation. They also include a Transparency Mode, allowing you to hear your surroundings without removing the earbuds, which complements the open-ear philosophy of the Samsung model. The TAGRY earbuds are designed for travel and sports, offering long battery life and a secure fit. They are a strong alternative for users who want advanced features like hybrid cancellation and transparency. If you value audio precision and environmental awareness, these earbuds provide a versatile package that rivals the Samsung design.

GNMN Waterproof ANC Earbuds with Ear Hooks

The GNMN V7 Workout Earbuds are built for intense physical activity with a waterproof IPX7 rating. This is a significant upgrade from the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live, which only offers IPX2 splash resistance. The GNMN earbuds feature ear hooks for a secure fit, ensuring they stay in place during vigorous exercise. They also provide long battery life, addressing the short battery concern of the Samsung model. The sound quality is stereo-focused, suitable for general listening during workouts. If you need maximum durability and water protection for your fitness routine, these earbuds are a practical choice. They sacrifice the open-ear style for robust performance and reliability in harsh conditions, making them ideal for serious athletes.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Samsung Galaxy Buds Live Open ANC Earbuds

Best for: Users wanting open-ear ANC awareness

Noise Cancellation

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

Single Charge Battery

6 Hours

Driver Size

12mm

Water Resistance

IPX2

Bluetooth Version

Bluetooth 5.0

Noise Cancellation Type

Active Noise Cancelling

View on Amazon: Samsung Galaxy Buds Live Open ANC Earbuds Affiliate link

The Samsung Galaxy Buds Live uses an open-ear design with 12mm AKG speakers. It features Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity and Active Noise Cancellation. You get 6 hours of playback on a single charge. The IPX2 rating offers basic splash resistance. This model suits users who want an open fit that keeps them aware of their surroundings while still reducing ambient noise.

Pros

• Active Noise Cancellation in an open-type design
• 12mm speakers tuned by AKG
• Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
• Compatible with iOS and Android devices

Cons

• Only 6 hours of battery life per charge
• Low IPX2 splash resistance rating
• Sold without a charging case

Good fit if

• You prefer an open-ear fit that lets in natural sound
• You need Active Noise Cancellation without full isolation
• You use iOS or Android smartphones for connectivity

Skip if

• You require waterproofing for swimming or heavy rain
• You need a charging case included with the purchase
• You need more than 6 hours of continuous playback

Verdict: Samsung Galaxy Buds Live ANC provides ANC in a unique open design, but the short battery life and lack of a case limit its utility for many buyers.

2 Best blue

Raycon Everyday Noise Cancelling Earbuds

Best for: call clarity and workout durability

Noise Cancellation

Active Noise Cancellation

Water Resistance

IPX4

Noise Cancellation Type

Active Noise Cancelling

Connectivity

Wireless, Bluetooth

Microphone

Microphone

Color

Blue

View on Amazon: Raycon Everyday Noise Cancelling Earbuds Affiliate link

The Raycon Everyday earbuds feature active noise cancellation to reduce background distractions. They include a built-in microphone for clear calls and an IPX4 rating for sweat resistance during workouts. The in-ear design offers a secure fit with multiple tip sizes. These wireless Bluetooth earbuds pair with iOS and Android devices for everyday use.

Pros

• Active noise cancellation reduces ambient noise
• Built-in microphone for calls
• IPX4 sweat and water resistance
• Secure in-ear fit with multiple tip sizes

Cons

• Heavier at 4.8 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
• Bulky dimensions of 2.25 x 1.5 x 1.1 inches
• No mention of wireless charging case

Good fit if

• You need active noise cancellation for focus
• You want a secure in-ear fit for workouts
• You use both iOS and Android phones

Skip if

• You prefer lightweight earbuds under 2 ounces
• You need a compact design for travel
• You want open-ear comfort instead of in-ear

Verdict: Raycon Everyday ANC Earbuds provide reliable noise cancellation and a secure fit for users who prioritize call clarity and workout durability over a lightweight profile.

3 Best budget

Gymsoul Noise Cancelling Earbuds with Ear Hooks

Best for: workouts and long battery life

Noise Cancellation

ANC

Total Battery Life

Up to 90 hours

Single Charge Battery

Up to 9 hours

Driver Size

14.2 mm

Water Resistance

IPX7

Noise Cancellation Type

Active Noise Cancelling

View on Amazon: Gymsoul Noise Cancelling Earbuds with Ear Hooks Affiliate link

The Gymsoul X19 offers 90 hours of total battery life with a single charge lasting up to 9 hours. It features 14.2 mm drivers for deep bass and IPX7 sweat resistance. You get active noise cancellation and transparency mode for focus or awareness. The secure ear hooks and button controls suit active use. These earbuds connect via Bluetooth 5.3 for stable audio during workouts or daily commutes.

Pros

• 90 hours total battery life
• IPX7 sweat resistance
• 14.2 mm large drivers
• Physical button controls
• Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity

Cons

• Ear hooks may not fit all ear shapes
• No mention of wireless charging support
• Bulkier design due to ear hooks

Good fit if

• You need long battery life for travel
• You exercise in sweaty conditions
• You prefer physical buttons over touch

Skip if

• You want a discreet in-ear design
• You need wireless charging for the case
• You prioritize minimal weight for comfort

Verdict: The Gymsoul X19 ANC Earbuds fit users who prioritize battery life and secure fit during workouts. You should choose these if you need durability and long playtime over a sleek profile.

4 Also great

Occiam Active Noise Cancelling Sport Earbuds

Best for: sports and active use with secure fit

Noise Cancellation

Active Noise Cancelling

Total Battery Life

Up to 90 hours

Single Charge Battery

8 hours

Water Resistance

IPX7

Form Factor

Over-Ear

Connectivity

Wireless, Bluetooth

View on Amazon: Occiam Active Noise Cancelling Sport Earbuds Affiliate link

The Occiam T19 earbuds use active noise cancellation to reduce ambient noise by up to 45dB. You get 8 hours of playback per charge, totaling 48 hours with the case. The design features flexible ear hooks and a sweatproof build, making them suitable for sports. They connect via Bluetooth within a 30ft range and include a digital battery display on the case.

Pros

• Active Noise Cancelling reduces ambient noise by up to 45dB
• 48 hours total battery life with charging case
• Secure ear hooks and sweatproof design for sports
• Digital battery display on the charging case

Cons

• Only sweatproof, not rated for submersion or heavy rain
• No mention of high-resolution audio certification
• Physical buttons may be less intuitive than touch controls

Good fit if

• You need secure ear hooks for running or workouts
• You want active noise cancellation to block distractions
• You prefer physical buttons for media control

Skip if

• You require water resistance for swimming or heavy rain
• You need wireless charging support for the case
• You prefer touch controls over physical buttons

Verdict: Occiam T19 Sports ANC Earbuds fit active users who need secure ear hooks and reliable noise cancellation. They are a practical option for sports and daily commutes where stability and battery life matter.

5 Best true wireless

Beats Fit Pro True Wireless ANC Earbuds

Best for: Secure fit and Apple ecosystem integration

Noise Cancellation

Active Noise Cancelling

Total Battery Life

Up to 24 hours

Single Charge Battery

Up to 6 hours

Water Resistance

IPX4

Transparency Mode

Transparency Mode

Connectivity

Wireless, Bluetooth, True Wireless

View on Amazon: Beats Fit Pro True Wireless ANC Earbuds Affiliate link

Beats Fit Pro earbuds use flexible wingtips for a secure, stable fit during movement. They offer Active Noise Cancelling and Transparency Mode, plus Adaptive EQ for balanced sound. The Apple H1 chip enables automatic switching between devices. You get up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge, with 24 hours total from the case. An IPX4 rating handles sweat and light water exposure.

Pros

• Flexible wingtips provide a secure, stable fit
• Active Noise Cancelling blocks external noise
• Transparency Mode lets in ambient sound
• IPX4 sweat and water resistance
• Apple H1 chip for seamless device switching

Cons

• Only 6 hours of battery life per charge
• Limited to 24 hours total with the case
• No mention of Android app support

Good fit if

• You need earbuds that stay secure during activity
• You use Apple devices for automatic switching
• You want Active Noise Cancelling in a true wireless form

Skip if

• You need more than 6 hours of continuous playback
• You prefer an open-ear design like the Galaxy Buds Live
• You want a single earbud replacement option

Verdict: Beats Fit Pro True Wireless Earbuds deliver a secure fit and solid noise cancellation for Apple users, though the 6-hour single charge limit is modest. They suit active listeners who prioritize stability and seamless integration over long battery endurance.

6 Best transparency mode

TAGRY Hybrid ANC Earbuds with Earhooks

Best for: active users needing transparency mode and long battery

Noise Cancellation

Hybrid ANC

Total Battery Life

80 hours

Single Charge Battery

Up to 10 hours

Driver Size

13mm

Water Resistance

IPX7

Noise Cancellation Type

Active Noise Cancelling

View on Amazon: TAGRY Hybrid ANC Earbuds with Earhooks Affiliate link

The TAGRY X88 offers hybrid active noise cancellation and a transparency mode for situational awareness. It features 13mm drivers for Hi-Res stereo audio and Bluetooth 5.4 for stable connectivity. The earbuds provide up to 10 hours of playback on a single charge, with the case extending total battery life to 80 hours. An IPX7 waterproof rating and earhook design make them suitable for sports and travel.

Pros

• Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling reduces ambient noise by up to 90%.
• Transparency mode allows you to hear surroundings without removing earbuds.
• 80 hours total battery life with 10 hours per single charge.
• IPX7 waterproof rating protects against rain and sweat.
• 13mm drivers support Hi-Res stereo audio quality.

Cons

• Earhook design differs from the open-fit style of the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live.
• Physical button controls may be less convenient than touch gestures.
• No mention of multipoint connectivity for simultaneous device pairing.

Good fit if

• You want transparency mode to stay aware of your surroundings.
• You need long battery life for extended travel or work days.
• You prefer a secure fit for sports and active use.

Skip if

• You require an open-ear design similar to the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live.
• You need touch controls instead of physical buttons.
• You prioritize a lightweight, in-ear form factor over earhooks.

Verdict: TAGRY X88 Hybrid ANC Earbuds provide strong noise cancellation and transparency modes for users who value battery life and secure fit. They are a solid choice for active users who need to hear their environment.

7 Best premium

GNMN Waterproof ANC Earbuds with Ear Hooks

Best for: intense workouts and long battery life

Noise Cancellation

Active Noise Cancellation

Total Battery Life

Up to 96 hours

Single Charge Battery

Up to 8 hours

Driver Size

16mm

Water Resistance

IPX7

Transparency Mode

Transparent Mode

View on Amazon: GNMN Waterproof ANC Earbuds with Ear Hooks Affiliate link

GNMN V7 earbuds offer 96 hours of total playback and IPX7 waterproofing. They feature 16 mm drivers and active noise cancellation. The design includes soft ear-hooks for a secure fit during intense workouts. A dual LED display tracks battery levels. You get stable Bluetooth connectivity and transparent mode for situational awareness. This setup prioritizes endurance and security over premium audio refinement.

Pros

• 96 hours total battery life with charging case
• IPX7 waterproof rating for sweat and rain
• Soft ear-hooks for secure fit during exercise
• Active noise cancellation up to 45dB
• Dual LED display on charging case

Cons

• No mention of wireless charging case support
• No mention of multipoint connection for multiple devices
• Standard Bluetooth without specific codec support listed

Good fit if

• You need earbuds that stay secure during intense running
• You want long battery life without frequent charging
• You prefer a physical display to check battery levels

Skip if

• You require premium audio codecs for high-resolution streaming
• You need seamless switching between multiple devices
• You prefer a lightweight open-ear design

Verdict: GNMN V7 Workout Earbuds provide secure fit and long battery life for active users. You get reliable performance for gym sessions, though you miss out on advanced connectivity features.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions