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- Best overall: Samsung HW-Q990F 11.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar
- Best budget: Samsung HW-Q800F 5.1.2ch Q-Series Soundbar
- Best premium: JBL Bar 1300X 11.1.4-Channel Soundbar
- Best for Sonos multiroom audio: Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar
- Samsung HW-Q990F 11.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar is the strongest all-in-one package for immersive surround sound, with a subwoofer and rear speakers included.
- Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar suits buyers who value a streamlined setup, expandable Sonos multiroom audio and 9.1.4 spatial audio.
- Samsung HW-Q800F 5.1.2ch Q-Series Soundbar is the simpler, more affordable route to Dolby Atmos with a separate wireless subwoofer.
- JBL Bar 1300X 11.1.4-Channel Soundbar stands out for detachable battery-powered surround speakers and a full surround package.
- Choose by included components and room layout, not channel count alone: rear speakers and a subwoofer have a major effect on the experience.
The Samsung HW-Q990F 11.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar is the better all-in-one surround package, while the Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar is the better fit for a premium, expandable single-bar setup. For this Black Friday 2026 guide, we researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to identify soundbars for different rooms and priorities.
On paper and in owner reviews, the main distinction is straightforward: Samsung includes a wireless subwoofer and rear speakers, while Sonos focuses on a single soundbar that integrates with its speaker ecosystem. The right pick depends on how much hardware you want to place around the room, the importance of music streaming, and whether your TV supports the connections and audio formats you need.
How We Picked
- Compared published channel layouts, included subwoofers and surround speakers, and supported audio formats.
- Prioritized clear product differences that matter in everyday TV, film, music and gaming use.
- Reviewed owner feedback for recurring setup, connectivity and usability themes without treating individual reports as universal.
- Considered room fit, system expandability and the amount of equipment required beyond the soundbar.
- Selected products across premium surround packages, single-bar systems and more compact setups.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Channel layout | Included subwoofer and rear speakers | Expansion path |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar | A premium single-bar system | 9.1.4 | Neither included | Sonos subwoofer and surrounds |
| Samsung HW-Q990F 11.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar | A complete surround package | 11.1.4 | Both included | Q-Symphony with compatible Samsung TVs |
| Samsung HW-Q930F 9.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar | Surround sound in a step-down package | 9.1.4 | Both included | Q-Symphony with compatible Samsung TVs |
| Samsung HW-Q800F 5.1.2ch Q-Series Soundbar | Dolby Atmos with a subwoofer | 5.1.2 | Subwoofer included; rear speakers not included | Q-Symphony with compatible Samsung TVs |
| Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar | A tidy dialogue-focused setup | 5.1.2 | Neither included | Optional Bose bass module and surrounds |
| JBL Bar 1300X 11.1.4-Channel Soundbar | Detachable surround speakers | 11.1.4 | Both included | Detachable wireless surround speakers |
| Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 HT-A9000 Soundbar | Optional Sony system expansion | 7.0.2 | Neither included | Optional Sony subwoofer and rear speakers |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1
Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar
The Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar is the best premium single-bar choice for buyers who want immersive sound without separate rear speakers, with 9.1.4 spatial audio.
Best for: A refined, expandable soundbar setup
- Spatial audio layout
- 9.1.4 channels
- Connection
- HDMI eARC
- Voice control
- Sonos Voice Control
- System expansion
- Sonos subwoofer and surrounds supported
- Immersive Dolby Atmos presentation from one soundbar
- Works with the wider Sonos multiroom ecosystem
- Clean setup without required rear speakers
- Subwoofer and rear speakers are separate purchases
- A suitable TV HDMI eARC connection is important
Is the Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar is worth considering for buyers who value a premium single-bar system and Sonos expansion. The Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar's 9.1.4 spatial audio layout delivers an immersive presentation without requiring rear speakers in the initial setup.
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#2 · Top pick
Samsung HW-Q990F 11.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar
The Samsung HW-Q990F 11.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar is the best complete surround package for film fans who want fewer add-on decisions, with 11.1.4-channel audio.
Best for: Immersive surround from one package
- Channel layout
- 11.1.4
- Included components
- Soundbar, subwoofer and rear speakers
- Audio support
- Dolby Atmos
- TV integration
- Q-Symphony with compatible Samsung TVs
- Subwoofer and rear speakers come in the package
- Dedicated surround channels support a convincing enveloping effect
- Q-Symphony integration adds a compatible Samsung TV option
- More components need placement and power
- The complete system takes more room than a single-bar setup
Is the Samsung HW-Q990F 11.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Samsung HW-Q990F 11.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar is a strong buy for people seeking a full surround system without separately choosing a subwoofer and rear speakers. The Samsung HW-Q990F 11.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar's 11.1.4 layout makes it the most complete package in this comparison.
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#3
Samsung HW-Q930F 9.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar
The Samsung HW-Q930F 9.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar is the best step-down surround pick for households wanting included rear speakers, with a 9.1.4-channel layout.
Best for: Surround sound with a full set of speakers
- Channel layout
- 9.1.4
- Included components
- Soundbar, subwoofer and rear speakers
- Audio support
- Dolby Atmos
- TV integration
- Q-Symphony with compatible Samsung TVs
- Adds separate rear speakers and a subwoofer
- Height-channel layout supports Dolby Atmos content
- A useful alternative to the larger Q990F system
- Rear speakers need suitable placement
- Q-Symphony features require a compatible Samsung TV
Is the Samsung HW-Q930F 9.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Samsung HW-Q930F 9.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar is worth considering for buyers who want dedicated rear speakers and a subwoofer in the box. The Samsung HW-Q930F 9.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar's 9.1.4 channels provide a substantial surround layout without moving to Samsung’s top package.
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#4
Samsung HW-Q800F 5.1.2ch Q-Series Soundbar
The Samsung HW-Q800F 5.1.2ch Q-Series Soundbar is the best simpler Samsung pick for buyers who want a subwoofer and Dolby Atmos, with 5.1.2-channel sound.
Best for: A compact Atmos setup with a subwoofer
- Channel layout
- 5.1.2
- Included bass component
- Wireless subwoofer
- Audio support
- Dolby Atmos
- TV integration
- Q-Symphony with compatible Samsung TVs
- Wireless subwoofer adds dedicated bass
- Simpler component count than complete rear-speaker kits
- Supports height effects for Dolby Atmos content
- Rear surround speakers are not included
- Less expansive surround hardware than the Q990F package
Is the Samsung HW-Q800F 5.1.2ch Q-Series Soundbar worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Samsung HW-Q800F 5.1.2ch Q-Series Soundbar is a good choice for buyers who want a wireless subwoofer and Dolby Atmos without a separate rear-speaker kit. The Samsung HW-Q800F 5.1.2ch Q-Series Soundbar's 5.1.2 layout offers a practical balance of features and setup simplicity.
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#5
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar
The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is the best polished single-bar option for listeners who prioritize clear dialogue and a straightforward setup, with 5.1.2-channel audio.
Best for: Dialogue and a tidy living-room setup
- Channel layout
- 5.1.2
- Audio technology
- Dolby Atmos and TrueSpace
- Connectivity
- HDMI eARC and optical
- Expansion
- Optional Bose bass module and surround speakers
- Clear dialogue focus for television and films
- Single-bar setup keeps the room uncluttered
- Optional expansion supports a larger system later
- Subwoofer and surround speakers are not included
- Full surround impact depends on room and content
Is the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is worth considering for listeners who want a premium single-bar setup with Dolby Atmos and a dialogue-focused presentation. The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar's 5.1.2-channel design keeps initial installation simple, with optional Bose components for expansion.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#6
JBL Bar 1300X 11.1.4-Channel Soundbar
The JBL Bar 1300X 11.1.4-Channel Soundbar is the best flexible surround package for people who want detachable rear speakers, with 11.1.4-channel audio.
Best for: Detachable surround speakers and powerful bass
- Channel layout
- 11.1.4
- Rated output
- 1170 watts
- Surround speakers
- Detachable wireless speakers
- Audio support
- Dolby Atmos
- Detachable speakers offer flexible surround placement
- Subwoofer and surround speakers are part of the package
- High stated output suits larger listening spaces
- Detachable speakers need charging
- The full set requires more room than a soundbar alone
Is the JBL Bar 1300X 11.1.4-Channel Soundbar worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The JBL Bar 1300X 11.1.4-Channel Soundbar is a strong option for buyers who want a complete Atmos system and movable rear speakers. The JBL Bar 1300X 11.1.4-Channel Soundbar's 11.1.4 layout and detachable surrounds make it especially flexible for changing room arrangements.
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#7
Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 HT-A9000 Soundbar
The Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 HT-A9000 Soundbar is the best expansion-friendly Sony pick for buyers who want a premium standalone bar, with a 7.0.2-channel layout.
Best for: A standalone bar with optional Sony expansion
- Channel layout
- 7.0.2
- Audio technology
- 360 Spatial Sound Mapping
- Connection
- HDMI eARC
- Expansion
- Optional wireless subwoofer and rear speakers
- Standalone design avoids mandatory rear speakers
- Optional Sony subwoofer and surrounds support expansion
- Spatial processing helps create a wider sound field
- Subwoofer and rear speakers are separate components
- A full surround configuration increases setup complexity
Is the Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 HT-A9000 Soundbar worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 HT-A9000 Soundbar is worth considering for buyers who want a premium bar now and the option to add Sony speakers later. The Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 HT-A9000 Soundbar's 7.0.2-channel layout and spatial processing provide a flexible starting point.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
Which is better, Sonos Arc Ultra or Samsung HW-Q990F?
The Samsung HW-Q990F 11.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar is better for a complete surround system, while the Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar is better for a streamlined, expandable setup.
Samsung includes a wireless subwoofer and rear speakers, so its 11.1.4-channel arrangement is ready to deliver separate surround and height effects. The package suits buyers who have room for multiple speakers and want a full system without selecting add-ons.
Sonos takes a different approach with 9.1.4 spatial audio from one bar. The Arc Ultra is a sensible match for listeners who want fewer visible components or already use Sonos speakers around the home. Add-on Sonos components remain an option. The short version: choose Samsung for the hardware included, or Sonos for a single-bar experience and ecosystem flexibility.
Is the Samsung HW-Q990F a better value than the Sonos Arc Ultra?
The Samsung HW-Q990F 11.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar offers more included hardware, while the Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar offers a simpler initial setup.
A fair comparison needs to account for the full system, not just the soundbar. Samsung’s package includes a subwoofer and rear speakers, components that add bass and dedicated surround placement. The Arc Ultra stands on its own and can be expanded later, but optional speakers and a subwoofer change the total system cost.
Room layout matters as much as the feature list. A household with space behind the seating position can make practical use of Samsung’s rear speakers. A smaller room or a preference for minimal equipment can favor Sonos. Compare the full kit contents and your TV’s connection options before choosing.
Do Sonos Arc Ultra and Samsung HW-Q990F support Dolby Atmos?
The Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar and Samsung HW-Q990F 11.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar both support Dolby Atmos, with 9.1.4 and 11.1.4 spatial layouts respectively.
Atmos sound depends on more than a compatible soundbar. The source, streaming app, film or show, TV connection and audio settings all affect whether the system receives an Atmos signal. HDMI eARC is a useful connection for sending high-quality audio from a compatible TV to a soundbar.
Samsung’s included rear speakers provide separate positions around the listener, while Sonos uses the Arc Ultra’s built-in drivers for its initial presentation. Both can produce immersive height effects, but they use different hardware strategies. Check the TV and source-device settings when comparing features.
Which soundbar is best for a small room?
The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar and Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar suit small rooms better than multi-speaker packages when minimal equipment is the priority.
A single soundbar needs less floor and shelf space than a system with a separate subwoofer and rear speakers. Bose offers a 5.1.2-channel design with optional expansion, while Sonos offers 9.1.4 spatial audio and a wider multiroom ecosystem. Both let buyers begin with one bar.
Room size alone does not determine fit. Measure the space beneath the TV, check clearance for the soundbar, and consider neighbors or shared walls before choosing a system with a subwoofer. For a small room where physical surround speakers are welcome, the Samsung HW-Q800F provides a subwoofer while keeping the system simpler than the Q990F.
What should I check before buying a soundbar on Black Friday 2026?
Buyers comparing the Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar and Samsung HW-Q990F 11.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar should check included components, TV connections and room fit before making a Black Friday 2026 choice.
Confirm whether the package includes a subwoofer and rear speakers, and check whether the TV has HDMI eARC. Review the soundbar’s supported audio formats alongside the services and devices used at home. For Samsung Q-Symphony, confirm compatibility with the specific Samsung TV.
Finally, think about installation and expansion. A multi-speaker kit needs more placement and power planning, while a single-bar system has fewer setup steps. Black Friday shopping is most useful when the feature checklist is ready in advance: the right connection, a suitable physical fit, and the components the household will actually use.
Buying Guide
Choose between a complete kit and a single soundbar
The Samsung HW-Q990F 11.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar includes a subwoofer and rear speakers, while the Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar starts with one bar. Pick the complete kit for dedicated surrounds, or the single bar for fewer components.
Match the soundbar to your TV connections
The Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar uses HDMI eARC, and the Samsung HW-Q990F 11.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar also needs an appropriate TV connection for its best audio setup. Check TV ports and audio pass-through settings before purchase.
Consider room size and speaker placement
The JBL Bar 1300X 11.1.4-Channel Soundbar and Samsung HW-Q990F need space for extra components. Measure the TV area, subwoofer location and rear-speaker positions before choosing a complete surround system.
Decide how much expansion matters
The Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar suits buyers who want Sonos multiroom audio, while the Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 HT-A9000 Soundbar supports optional Sony system expansion. Check whether you want one brand’s speakers across the home.
Check the full package contents
The Samsung HW-Q800F includes a wireless subwoofer but not rear speakers. Compare package contents for every shortlisted model so required add-ons, cables and placement needs are clear before checkout.
FAQ
Sonos Arc Ultra vs Samsung HW-Q990F: which one should I buy?
The Samsung HW-Q990F 11.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar is the better choice for a complete surround package with a subwoofer and rear speakers included. The Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar suits buyers who prefer a single-bar setup and Sonos ecosystem expansion.
Does the Samsung HW-Q990F include rear speakers?
Yes. The Samsung HW-Q990F 11.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar package includes rear speakers and a wireless subwoofer, alongside the soundbar. The included components support its 11.1.4-channel surround layout, so buyers do not need to select those pieces separately.
Does the Sonos Arc Ultra include a subwoofer?
No. The Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar is a standalone soundbar, and a separate Sonos subwoofer is optional. Buyers can begin with the bar alone and add compatible Sonos speakers or a subwoofer later to expand the home audio system.
Which soundbar is best for Dolby Atmos?
The Samsung HW-Q990F 11.1.4ch Q-Series Soundbar is a strong Dolby Atmos choice for buyers who want included rear speakers and a subwoofer. The Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar also supports Dolby Atmos and delivers 9.1.4 spatial audio from a single bar.
Is the Samsung HW-Q800F a good alternative to the HW-Q990F?
The Samsung HW-Q800F 5.1.2ch Q-Series Soundbar is a good alternative for shoppers who want Dolby Atmos and a wireless subwoofer but do not need included rear speakers. The HW-Q990F is the more complete choice for dedicated surround hardware.
What is the best soundbar for a small living room?
The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a good small-room pick for buyers who prioritize a single-bar installation and dialogue clarity. The Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar is another single-bar option, with 9.1.4 spatial audio and a path to Sonos system expansion.