Noble Audio FoKus Prestige Encore vs Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro
Introduction
The FoKus Prestige Encore and Galaxy Buds3 Pro are premium TWS offerings from Noble Audio and Samsung. Both TWS are designed to deliver high-resolution sound and convenient wireless features on the go.
We go over key differences in design, sound, features, and price to help you pick the right TWS for your audio needs.
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FoKus Prestige Encore vs Galaxy Buds3 Pro Price Comparison
The FoKus Prestige Encore and Galaxy Buds3 Pro are flagship TWS models from Noble Audio and Samsung. Here are their respective prices:
The FoKus Prestige Encore comes in at $699.00.
The Galaxy Buds3 Pro comes in at $249.00.
The price difference is significant between these TWS models, with the Prestige Encore costing about $450 more than the Galaxy Buds3 Pro.
Let's dive deep into the specs, design, sound signatures, and features of these wireless IEMs so you can get a better idea of what each brings to the table.
The Noble Audio FoKus Prestige Encore
The FoKus Prestige Encore is Noble Audio’s flagship next-gen TWS. It upgrades the original Prestige with a more advanced tribrid driver system, improved wireless tech, and a lighter, more ergonomic CNC-machined wood design.
Noble Audio FoKus Prestige Encore Features:
- Precision CNC-Machined Solid Wood Earbuds and Charging Case
- Tribrid Driver System (Dynamic + Balanced Armature + Planar)
- Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling + Transparency Mode
- High-Resolution Wireless Codecs (aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, LDAC)
- Dual-Mic cVc Noise Suppression for Calls
- Multipoint Pairing + TrueWireless Mirroring
- Audiodo Personalized Sound Calibration
- Custom EQ, Touch Control Remapping, and Firmware Updates via App
- Wizard-Tuned Signature with Improved Detail and Imaging
Noble Audio FoKus Prestige Encore Specs:
Driver Configuration: 1× 8mm Dynamic Driver, 2× Balanced Armature Drivers, 1× 6mm Planar Driver
Chipset: Qualcomm QCC3091
Bluetooth: 5.4 with Multipoint
Codecs: aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, LDAC, AAC, SBC
Noise Control: Hybrid ANC + Transparency Mode
Call Tech: Dual-Mic Qualcomm cVc
Battery Life: Up to 10 hours (ANC Off), 7 hours (ANC On), approx. 35 hours total with case
Charging: USB-C, Qi Wireless Charging, 10-minute fast charge ≈ 2 hours playback
Body/Case: Precision CNC-Machined Solid Wood
Touch Controls: Yes
Sound Signature: Wizard Tuned
The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro
The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro is a flagship TWS known for its advanced AI features, excellent sound quality, and seamless Galaxy ecosystem integration.
Galaxy Buds3 Pro Top Features:
- Dual-driver system: 10.5mm dynamic + 6.1mm planar-magnetic with dual amps
- AI-powered Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation with environmental detection
- Samsung Seamless Codec Ultra High Quality (SSC UHQ): 24-bit 96kHz audio (Samsung devices only)
- Real-time Interpreter mode for multilingual conversations
- 360 Audio with head tracking and multi-channel support
Galaxy Buds3 Pro Specs:
Driver Configuration: 10.5mm Dynamic + 6.1mm Planar-Magnetic (dual amp)
Bluetooth Version: 5.4
Supported Codecs: SBC, AAC, SSC UHQ (24-bit 96kHz - Samsung devices only)
Battery Life: Up to 6 hours with ANC on. 26 hours total with case
Charging: USB-C and wireless charging. 5-minute charge = 1 hour playback
Water Resistance: IP57 (earbuds only)
Design and Build Quality
The Noble Prestige Encore and Galaxy Buds3 Pro feature completely different design goals. The Noble Audio FoKus Prestige Encore leans into a bold, IEM-style handcrafted build for audiophile performance, while the Galaxy Buds3 Pro opts for a more traditional stem-style design focused on convenience and comfort.
The FoKus Prestige Encore uses CNC-machined solid wood shells and a matching wood case, giving each set a unique grain pattern that adds a premium, handcrafted feel. The earbuds are slimmer than the previous model, and their more ergonomic shape improves long-term comfort while keeping the bold Prestige aesthetic of the original model.
Metal-reinforced, triple-vented nozzles enhance durability and airflow for a more stable seal and consistent sound. Overall, the FoKus Prestige Encore delivers a luxurious build that looks unique and while also offering enhanced comfort and durability for day-to-day use.
The Galaxy Buds3 Pro features Samsung's new stemmed design with distinctive "Blade Lights" running vertically down each stem. The earbuds weigh just 5.4g each with IP57 water and dust resistance. You get Silver and White color options with a glossy finish, though the plastic construction feels less premium than the price suggests.
The transparent charging case lets you see the earbuds and their Blade Lights through the lid, for that futuristic look. The overall design is compact and pocketable with USB-C and wireless charging support.
Sound Signature
You're probably looking to see how these TWS IEMs stack up in terms of sound. We'll share our thoughts here, although keep in mind this information tends to be anecdotal and subjective.
FoKus Prestige Encore Sound Signature
The FoKus Prestige Encore uses a hybrid three-way driver system with a balanced, warm-neutral sound signature. It features an 8mm dynamic driver, dual Knowles balanced armatures, and a 6mm planar-magnetic driver working together to give you a refined, full-spectrum sound with wide soundstage and precise imaging.
Bass
The dynamic driver delivers controlled, weighty low end with good texture and detail. It's got solid punch and depth without being overpowering. Kick drums and basslines hit with impact but stay refined and precise, sitting nicely behind the mids without dominating the signature.
Midrange
The balanced armatures handle vocals and instruments with clarity and natural texture. This is where the Encore really shines. Guitars, pianos, and voices come through articulate and lifelike, with that transparent quality that makes everything feel present and real.
Treble
The planar driver gives you airy, extended highs with speed and micro-detail. Cymbals and hi-hats sparkle with a clean, defined quality without any harshness or fatigue. The treble has just enough air and extension to keep things open and spacious.
Best Genres for the Prestige Encore
The Prestige Encore handles pretty much any genre you throw at it. It's incredibly balanced and dynamic, so you can do serious analytical listening or just kick back and enjoy your music. It really excels with vocal-heavy tracks, acoustic music, jazz, and classical where that transparency and detail shine.
Rock, pop, EDM, and orchestral tracks sound great too, with the controlled bass and wide soundstage keeping everything engaging and immersive.
Galaxy Buds3 Pro Sound Signature
The Galaxy Buds3 Pro uses a dual-driver system with a balanced, detailed sound signature. It packs a 10.5mm dynamic driver for lows and mids, paired with a 6.1mm planar-magnetic driver for highs, each powered by its own dedicated amplifier.
Bass
The dynamic driver delivers thick, juicy bass with strong sub-bass extension and controlled mid-bass. Kick drums and basslines hit with authority and texture, providing a satisfying foundation without overwhelming other frequencies.
Midrange
Vocals and instruments come through with natural timbre and excellent clarity. The upper midrange is clean without the sibilance issues that plagued the Buds2 Pro, making vocals feel articulate and realistic.
Treble
The planar driver delivers crisp, quick highs with impressive extension up to 40kHz. Cymbals and hi-hats sparkle with air and detail without harshness, giving strings and wind instruments realistic texture.
Best Genres for the Galaxy Buds3 Pro
The Galaxy Buds3 Pro handles pretty much any genre with its balanced, natural tuning. It excels with pop, rock, EDM, hip-hop, jazz, and classical thanks to excellent track separation, wide soundstage, and realistic timbre.
Price and Value
The Noble Audio FoKus Prestige Encore is the more expensive TWS in this comparison, costing around $450 more than the Galaxy Buds3 Pro.
Is the Prestige Encore Worth It?
At $699, the Prestige Encore sits in premium territory alongside flagship TWS like the AirPods Pro 3, Sony WF-1000XM5, and Bowers & Wilkins Pi8.
What sets it apart is that hybrid tribrid driver setup with the planar tweeter, which you just don't see in most wireless earbuds. You're also getting that full wooden construction on the housings and case, Audiodo personalized sound calibration that is stored directly on the buds, and support for high-res codecs like aptX Lossless and LDAC.
If you're an audiophile who wants serious sound quality without being tethered to a wire, the Encore delivers performance that rivals wired IEMs. It's definitely a luxury purchase, but the craftsmanship, tech, and sound quality back up the price tag.
Is the Galaxy Buds3 Pro Worth It?
At $249 (at release), the Galaxy Buds3 Pro competes with AirPods Pro 2 and Sony WF-1000XM5. The dual-driver system with planar tweeter and comprehensive Galaxy AI integration set it apart. You get high-resolution 24-bit 96kHz audio via SSC UHQ codec, though this is limited to Samsung devices. The sound quality is genuinely impressive with natural timbre, excellent separation, and rich detail.
The value depends heavily on your device ecosystem. Samsung Galaxy users get the full feature set including SSC UHQ codec, seamless switching, and all AI capabilities. Non-Samsung users lose significant functionality, making them a less compelling option. The plastic build also feels less premium than the price suggests.
Our Thoughts
Each option delivers a different balance of sound quality, features, and value. Whether you prioritize audiophile-grade sound, ecosystem integration, or premium craftsmanship, there's a standout choice for you here.
The Noble Audio FoKus Prestige Encore - Who Is It For?
The Prestige Encore is for audiophiles who want the best wireless sound quality money can buy.
You get a unique tribrid driver setup with a planar tweeter, premium wooden construction, personalized sound tuning, high-res codec support, and wired IEM-level performance in a truly wireless package.
At $699, it's competing with flagship TWS but offers something most can't: that refined, balanced signature with exceptional detail retrieval and soundstage. Skip it if you need aggressive bass, long battery life beyond 8 hours, or can't justify spending this much on wireless earbuds. But if sound quality is your top priority and you want the craftsmanship to match, the Encore is one of the best TWS on the market.
The Prestige is perfect if you want bold, exciting sound with powerful bass in a premium wireless package. You get beautiful wooden construction, a hybrid driver setup, expansive soundstage, 10-hour battery life, and that signature warm, bass-heavy Noble tuning.
The Galaxy Buds3 Pro - Who Is It For?
The Galaxy Buds3 Pro is perfect if you're in the Samsung Galaxy ecosystem and want flagship sound with advanced AI features.
You get exceptional dual-driver audio, natural timbre, adaptive ANC, real-time translation, and high-res 24-bit 96kHz audio. At $249, it's ideal for Samsung users prioritizing seamless integration and innovative features.
Skip it if you use non-Samsung devices, as you'll lose key features like SSC UHQ codec and AI capabilities. Also skip if you need longer battery life or prefer premium materials over plastic.
But if you're a Samsung user wanting cutting-edge features and excellent sound, the Buds3 Pro is one of the most capable TWS right now for audiophiles committed to the Android ecosystem.
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