People shopping for a new soundbar will likely compare Samsung vs. Sony. These popular companies have no shortage of options to choose from, but which one is the best? That’s a question we’re going to answer in our guide as we break down each company’s current soundbar lineup.
Samsung vs. Sony: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Samsung | Sony | |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | March 1, 1938 | May 7, 1946 |
| Headquarters | South Korea | Japan |
| Website | https://www.samsung.com/ | https://www.sony.com/ |
| Products | Over 20 soundbars plus a line of compatible wireless speakers | Around a dozen soundbars and a small line of wireless subwoofers and rear speakers |
Samsung vs. Sony: What’s the Difference?
Whether you’re interested in a TV, appliance, or audio equipment, Samsung and Sony are big names in consumer tech. The companies appear to have comparable lineups with home audio equipment, but there are some differences once you dig a little deeper. We’ll break those down, but first, we’re going to take a longer look into each company’s selection of soundbars.
Samsung Soundbars
Samsung soundbars are popular options whether you’re picking one up to use as a standalone system or bundled with one of their high-end TVs. The company has around 20 soundbars listed on their official site, which are broken down by class.
They also sell a line of wireless speakers compatible with their soundbars and have some interesting alternatives, including their Sound Towers and the Terrace Outdoor Soundbar.
- Sound optimized for outdoor settings
- Can withstand excessive temperatures
- IP55-rated for resistance against water and dust
- Distortion-cancelling technology
- Streaming via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Built-in woofer
Samsung Q-Series Soundbars
The Samsung’s Q-Series soundbars come from the company’s premium lineup. Designed to work with Q-Series TVs, prices typically range from $350-1,500. Systems in this class have Dolby Atmos support along with other flagship features.
The best complete system is the Samsung HW-Q990C, an 11.1.4 channel soundbar with fantastic audio quality. It comes with wireless rear speakers and a sub while featuring the company’s top-tier tech. This soundbar supports Q-Symphony and has SpaceFit Sound Pro along with Dolby Atmos support. The next step down is the Samsung Q910C, a Dolby Atmos 9.1.2 soundbar system.
- Includes 11 front-facing speakers, 1 subwoofer, and 4 up-firing channels
- Wireless Dolby Atmos
- Supports Q-Symphony
- SpaceFit Sound Pro
- Voice Enhance and Active Voice Amplifier
It has comparable features to their top model but is cheaper, while the Samsung HW-Q900C still has Atmos but doesn’t have the rear speakers included on the Q910C. Consumers looking for something more affordable should consider the Samsung HW-Q800C, a system that provides a lot of bang for your buck.
- 5.1.2ch Soundbar
- Wireless Dolby Audio
- Q-Symphony
- SpaceFit Sound Pro
- Adaptive Sound
- Game Mode Pro
- Airplay 2, AVA
- 8-Inch Subwoofer
- Alexa Built-in
The Samsung Q800C provides consumers with Dolby Atmos courtesy of a soundbar and an 8-inch sub. This wireless system delivers fantastic sound that adapts to your room thanks to SpaceFit, and it is compatible with Alexa AirPlay. It’s a 2023 model, but there are still several Q-series systems from the previous generation that are well worth a look.
The Q7CB and Q6CB are good examples and they are considerably cheaper than current models. Both are 3.1.2 soundbars with Dolby Atmos. At this time, the most affordable Q-Series soundbar is the Samsung HW-Q60C, which replaces the Q60B from 2022. The newest model has Adaptive Sound Lite, 4K passthrough, and is voice-assistant compatible, just like their premium options.
- Dolby Audio
- Supports Q-Symphony
- Optimized audio with Adaptive Sound Lite
- HDMI eARC
- Game Mode syncs sound with on-screen action
- Bluetooth multi-connection
- Wireless surround sound compatible
Samsung S-Series Soundbars
Whereas Samsung’s Q-Series soundbars are designed to work alongside their QLED TVs, the S-Series takes a different approach. These soundbars are cheaper and slimmer, and while Dolby Atmos is available on select models, it’s not a guarantee.
There aren’t many S-Series soundbars from Samsung, but you can round up around a half-dozen models when you take older models into account. The top option from the company is the Samsung HW-S800 and S801B.
These slim Samsung soundbars come with a wireless sub and provide true wireless 3.1.2 audio. That’s due in part to wireless Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual: X. Despite the slim size, there are ten speakers included in the systems, including a center channel, sub, and up-firing speakers.
They don’t have 4K video passthrough, however, or have Bluetooth Multipoint. These soundbars aren’t compatible with Google but have Alexa built-in and utilize the company’s latest technologies.
- Wireless Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X,
- Q Symphony
- SpaceFit Sound
- Bluetooth multi-connection
- Synced directional audio with Game Pro Mode
- Built-in Alexa
On the opposite end of the spectrum is the Samsung HW-S50B, a sound system from 2022. This all-in-one soundbar is typically priced under $200 and provides impressive sound. It’s a 3-channel soundbar with Dolby Digital and five speakers. Despite the price, the HW-S50B has Bluetooth Multipoint and a center channel.
Models like the Samsung S60B and S61B are in the middle of the pack with pricing, but they still sport some of the company’s more popular features. Older models from this class are still available alongside models from the company’s B and C-Series.
Samsung B and C-Series Soundbars
While squarely in the budget class, B and C-Series soundbars from Samsung are a popular choice with consumers across the board. Two of the more recent models on the company’s official website in this class are the HW-B53C and Samsung HW-B650.
The Samsung HW-B650 is another 2022 release. This 3.1 channel system comes with a sub and Dolby Digital 5.1. It has plenty of bump, although it lacks Dolby Atmos like soundbars from the previous series. The Samsung HW-B550 is the next step down and still has the subwoofer, but this soundbar is only a 2.1 system.
If you’re looking for something newer but still in the budget range, the Samsung HW-C450 is an excellent choice. It’s also a 2.1-channel soundbar with DTS and a subwoofer. You can also look forward to features like Game Mode and Adaptive Sound Lite. This soundbar allows you to expand your system through wireless satellite speakers.
- DTS Virtual X
- Includes subwoofer
- Bass Boost
- Optimized audio with Adaptive Sound Lite
- Game Mode syncs sound with the action on-screen
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Wireless surround sound compatible
Sony Soundbars
Over the years, Sony has produced more audio equipment than Samsung, although they’ve never been a company known for soundbars. They have around a dozen soundbars on their official site at any given time. Sony also has a small line of wireless subwoofers and rear speakers alongside some systems that don’t fall into any specific category.
Sony A-Series Soundbars
Soundbars from Sony’s A-Series are in the premium class. While there aren’t many models to choose from, all are recent models that have rolled out within the past two years. Every soundbar in this range is Dolby Atmos certified, and the HT-A3000 is the cheapest.
This 3.1 channel soundbar has Atmos and DTS:X. It also makes use of tech from Sony, like X-Force PRO surround and 360-spatial mapping. Sound field optimization makes calibration a breeze, and it’s smart. A built-in Chromecast lets users stream along with AirPlay 2, Google Assistant, and Amazon’s Alexa. As you’d expect, this soundbar supports a wide variety of formats through HDMI eARC, USB, or optical input.
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
- 360 Spatial Sound adapts to your environment
- Sound Field Optimization calibrates the HT-A3000 to your room
- Built-in dual subwoofers plus three front speakers with a center channel for dialogue
- 360 Reality Audio for music
The Sony HT-A5000 is comparable to a single-soundbar system but with extra speakers behind the grill and Virtual Surround. It’s a 450W system that supports Dolby Vision and HDR, thanks to the HDMI input. The Sony HT-A7000 has 7.1.1 channels, slightly more power at 500W, two HDMI ports, and five full-range front-firing drivers. Most soundbars in this class are sold individually or with matching speakers, depending on your budget and needs.
- Dolby Atmos Soundbar with DTS:X
- 300W wireless subwoofer
- Wireless rear speakers
- 360 Spatial Sound Mapping
- Two HDMI ports
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant
Sony S-Series Soundbars
From a design standpoint, Sony’s S-Series soundbars have the same vibe as the A-Series but aren’t as expensive. The Sony HT-S100F is a prime example of that. This 2.0-channel system is ported and provides crystal-clear audio without breaking the bank.
- Tweeter built in, with 2-channel speaker
- Bluetooth enabled
- USB port
- Bass Reflex style speaker for an especially deep sound
- S-Force Pro Front Surround sound feature included
This soundbar supports Dolby Digital, although you won’t find Dolby Atmos on this model or the Sony HT-S200F. It actually has less power than the HT-S100F but sports a much larger 46mm full-range driver. If you’re looking for bass, consider the HT-S400. This is a 330-watt system with a wireless subwoofer and dual full-range drivers. It also has Bluetooth 5.0 compared to 4.2 on the cheaper models.
The best Sony soundbar from the S-Series is the Sony HT-S2000. While it doesn’t have a sub, it supports Dolby ATMOS, DTX Virtual:X, and AAC via Bluetooth 5.2. This 3.1-channel soundbar is a great way to enjoy Full Dolby Support and pairs perfectly with add-on speakers from the company like this set, which includes the SW3 wireless sub and RS3S rear speakers.
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
- Vertical Surround Engine and S-Force PRO Front Surround
- Dual built-in subwoofers
- Three front speakers include center channel for dialogue
- Bluetooth and USB connectivity
Other Soundbars from Sony
While most of Sony’s soundbar systems fall under the A or S-Series, there are some oddballs available. Some are older or not listed on their official site but they provide some interesting features nonetheless. That includes the HT-G700, a 3.1-channel soundbar with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
This soundbar has a dedicated center channel and a powerful wireless subwoofer to pound out the bass. Audio Enhancement upscales audio to 7.1.2, and it has 4K HDR passthrough with Dolby Vision support as well. The Sony HT-X8500 is comparable from a feature standpoint but lacks a center channel. It still has Dolby Atmos, DTX-X, and a built-in sub.
- 7.1.2ch Dolby Atmos/DTS X with Vertical Sound Engine
- Dual built-in subwoofers for deep bass
- All sound upscaled close to 7.1.2ch audio
- Seven different sound modes to enhance your entertainment experience
- Voice enhancement for greater clarity
Are you interested in a model with better connectivity? The Sony Z9F could be the solution with an Ethernet jack, dual HDMI inputs, and a USB port. This smart soundbar is powered by Alexa with seven sound modes. You can play music throughout your home with Alexa or use Chromecast to stream from a smartphone or slate. This 2-piece system is priced at a premium but has been well-received.
- Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, HDMI connectivity
- Dolby Atmos and DTS: X
- Includes wireless subwoofer
- 4K HDR compatible
- Seven sound modes
Samsung vs. Sony Soundbars: Product Selection
Samsung has a larger selection of soundbars than Sony, but it’s relatively close when you factor in models from the past few years from both companies.
Sony has products aimed towards audiophiles who won’t have room for a multi-component system, but so does Samsung. The same goes for budget-friendly options, although we feel that Samsung has more to offer in that regard.
Each company also has a solid selection of mid-range offerings. That includes soundbars packaged with subwoofers and rear speakers. With that in mind, we’re giving Samsung a slight edge as they simply seem to have more soundbars available online and locally.
Sony vs. Samsung Soundbars: Audio Quality
Audio quality is where things get tricky, as audio quality depends on the series, technology, and other factors. The best way to ascertain which company produces the soundbars with the best audio quality is to check reviews.
We found that Samsung’s soundbars provide users with a better all-around experience compared to Sony. You’ll find a better mix of highs and lows with their all-in-one systems, whereas you can expect clearer dialogue from one of Sony’s soundbars.
Both companies have a variety of models with Dolby Atmos and DTS: X. Systems range from two to seven channels on average, and you can pick up add-on speakers from each brand. Again, this is an area that’s close, depending on the model or package you choose. Samsung provides users with a more robust experience out of the box, however.
Samsung vs. Sony Soundbars: Pricing
We often use the term “budget-friendly” to describe products and brands with affordable products. Neither Samsung nor Sony are budget brands, although both companies have soundbars that range from $100 to $200.
That means you can pick up a well-built soundbar from either brand for well under $500, but there are also a variety of premium options. The Samsung Q990C is proof of that, and while not a traditional soundbar, the Sony HT-A9 certainly isn’t cheap.
Midrange offerings from these companies are more expensive than what you’ll find from brands like Vizio, but they have better audio quality. Pricing is a draw with Samsung vs. Sound soundbars, especially when you consider how frequently you can find them on sale.
Samsung vs. Sony: 5 Must-Know Facts
- Samsung has a larger selection of soundbars on the current market.
- Both Samsung and Sony have soundbars from $100 to $200, and overall, the pricing is comparable.
- Sony’s soundbars provide clearer dialogue.
- Samsung and Sony both offer soundbars with Dolby Atmos and DTS: X.
- Samsung’s soundbars deliver a better all-around experience out of the box.
Samsung vs. Sony: Which One Is Better?
When you’re comparing an entire lineup of products instead of two head-to-head, you have to take a broader view of things. On the surface, these companies are comparable in every key area, from audio quality to pricing and features.
Both Samsung and Sony have built-in tech for gamers and soundbars that are designed to work alongside their TVs. Dolby Atmos is an option from the companies, although you’re not going to get a great warranty from either brand.
You can also find soundbar alternatives like Samsung’s powerful tower or the Sony HT-A9. Despite the fact you can’t get Dolby Vision on a Samsung TV, you can get Dolby Vision passthrough on the Q990. Dolby Vision was something Sony always had in its favor with OLED TVs, but not with soundbars.
When you consider the minimal price difference and the fact Samsung’s soundbars have a more balanced sound, we feel they are a clear winner. While you can’t go wrong with a soundbar from either company, you’ll get more bang for your buck with Samsung.
- SAMSUNG HW-LST70T 3.0ch The Terrace Outdoor Soundbar w/Dolby 5.1ch
- Sound optimized for outdoor settings
- Can withstand excessive temperatures
- IP55-rated for resistance against water and dust
- Distortion-cancelling technology
- Streaming via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Built-in woofer
- SAMSUNG HW-Q990C (2023) 11.1.4 ch. Wireless Dolby Atmos Soundbar and Rear Speakers
- Includes 11 front-facing speakers, 1 subwoofer, and 4 up-firing channels
- Wireless Dolby Atmos
- Supports Q-Symphony
- SpaceFit Sound Pro
- Voice Enhance and Active Voice Amplifier
- SAMSUNG HW-Q800C Soundbar (Newest Model)
- 5.1.2ch Soundbar
- Wireless Dolby Audio
- Q-Symphony
- SpaceFit Sound Pro
- Adaptive Sound
- Game Mode Pro
- Airplay 2, AVA
- 8-Inch Subwoofer
- Alexa Built-in
- SAMSUNG HW-Q60C 3.1ch Soundbar
- Dolby Audio
- Supports Q-Symphony
- Optimized audio with Adaptive Sound Lite
- HDMI eARC
- Game Mode syncs sound with on-screen action
- Bluetooth multi-connection
- Wireless surround sound compatible
- SAMSUNG HW-S800B/ZA 3.2.1ch Soundbar
- Wireless Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X,
- Q Symphony
- SpaceFit Sound
- Bluetooth multi-connection
- Synced directional audio with Game Pro Mode
- Built-in Alexa
- SAMSUNG HW-C450 2.1ch Soundbar
- DTS Virtual X
- Includes subwoofer
- Bass Boost
- Optimized audio with Adaptive Sound Lite
- Game Mode syncs sound with the action on-screen
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Wireless surround sound compatible
- Sony HT-A3000 3.1ch Dolby Atmos Soundbar
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
- 360 Spatial Sound adapts to your environment
- Sound Field Optimization calibrates the HT-A3000 to your room
- Built-in dual subwoofers plus three front speakers with a center channel for dialogue
- 360 Reality Audio for music
- Sony HT-A7000 7.1.2ch 500W Dolby Atmos Soundbar
- Dolby Atmos Soundbar with DTS:X
- 300W wireless subwoofer
- Wireless rear speakers
- 360 Spatial Sound Mapping
- Two HDMI ports
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Sony S100F
- Tweeter built in, with 2-channel speaker
- Bluetooth enabled
- USB port
- Bass Reflex style speaker for an especially deep sound
- S-Force Pro Front Surround sound feature included
- Sony HT-S2000: 3.1ch Soundbar
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
- Vertical Surround Engine and S-Force PRO Front Surround
- Dual built-in subwoofers
- Three front speakers include center channel for dialogue
- Bluetooth and USB connectivity
- Sony HTX8500 2.1ch Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar with Built-in subwoofer, Black
- 7.1.2ch Dolby Atmos/DTS X with Vertical Sound Engine
- Dual built-in subwoofers for deep bass
- All sound upscaled close to 7.1.2ch audio
- Seven different sound modes to enhance your entertainment experience
- Voice enhancement for greater clarity
- Sony Z9F 3.1ch Soundbar
- Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, HDMI connectivity
- Dolby Atmos and DTS: X
- Includes wireless subwoofer
- 4K HDR compatible
- Seven sound modes
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