So, you’re thinking about upgrading your home audio and want the best Samsung soundbar to match your setup. With so many models offering immersive sound, smart features, and varying price points, it can be tricky to know which one is right for you.

That’s where we come in! In this guide, we’ve tested and reviewed the top Samsung soundbars to help you make the best choice—whether you’re after a cinematic experience, a smart home-ready setup, or a solid budget-friendly pick.

After hands-on testing, the Samsung Q990D earned our Editor’s Pick for its truly immersive 11.1.4ch Dolby Atmos sound, wireless rear speakers, and seamless Q-Symphony integration.

For a high-performance alternative, the Samsung Q930C comes close behind with fantastic audio quality and excellent value. If you're shopping on a budget, the Samsung C450 surprised us with its powerful sound and compact design, ideal for everyday viewing.

And to help you avoid buyer’s remorse, we also highlight one model to skip—the Samsung C400—which underdelivered in sound clarity, setup, and overall value. Whether you're creating a full home theatre or simply want better TV sound, we’ve got a soundbar to suit your needs. Let’s dive in!

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Feature Checklist for Choosing the Right Samsung Soundbar

When purchasing a Samsung soundbar, there are certain baseline features and standards you should expect. These features should be the norm and are essential for a high-quality, hassle-free experience:

• Dolby Audio Support: Dolby Atmos or Dolby Digital support for immersive, cinema-like sound.
• Q-Symphony Compatibility: Seamless integration with Samsung TVs, combining TV and soundbar speakers for fuller audio.
• Wireless Subwoofer: Deep bass enhancement without cluttering your space with extra cables.
• HDMI ARC/eARC Connectivity: Easy and stable connection to your TV, enabling high-quality audio transmission.
• Bluetooth Connectivity: Wireless streaming from phones, tablets, or compatible TVs.
• SmartThings App Integration: Remote soundbar control and tuning via Samsung’s dedicated app.
• Surround Sound Capability: Virtual or true surround sound for an immersive experience in films, games, and music.
• Voice Enhancement Mode: Clearer dialogue, particularly useful for action-heavy or fast-paced content.

Design and Build Quality

Samsung soundbars are known for sleek aesthetics, but beyond looks, the build quality affects both performance and longevity. Here’s what to consider:

• Minimalist Aesthetics: Slim, low-profile designs that blend well with modern TVs and furniture.
• Solid Construction: Durable materials that resist wear and overheating over time.
• Wall-Mount Compatibility: Easy mounting options included or supported for flexible setup.
• Compact Subwoofer Design: A sub that fits into tighter spaces without sacrificing bass output.
• Discreet Rear Speakers: If included, these should be small yet powerful, with wireless connectivity for easier placement.

Features That Take Your Soundbar to the Next Level

Premium Samsung soundbars often come with additional features that elevate the user experience. These extras aren’t always essential, but they can significantly enhance functionality and versatility:

• Adaptive Sound or SpaceFit Sound: Automatically adjusts audio based on your room size and layout.
• Game Mode Pro: Optimised audio settings for directional sound and enhanced gaming immersion.
• Voice Assistant Integration: Built-in Alexa or Google Assistant for hands-free control.
• Tap Sound or AirPlay 2: Instant device pairing by tapping a phone or using Apple AirPlay.
• Multi-Device Connectivity: Simultaneous pairing with multiple devices via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
• HDMI Pass-Through with 4K/8K Support: Allows uninterrupted video signal transmission for high-res TVs.
• Upfiring Speakers: For true height channels in Dolby Atmos content, projecting sound above you.

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Editors Pick

Samsung Q990D Q-Symphony 11.1.4ch Cinematic Dolby Atmos Wi-Fi Soundbar

The Samsung Q990D is our top choice for anyone looking to upgrade their home cinema experience. With its 22 built-in speakers, wireless rear units, and Dolby Atmos support, it delivers immersive, room-filling sound that places you right at the centre of the action.

Key Features

• Cinematic Immersion: A 22-speaker system with upfiring drivers creates 360° surround sound. Audio moves around and above for a theatre-like feel.
• Q-Symphony Technology: Works with Samsung TVs to combine TV and soundbar audio. Enhances dialogue and overall clarity.
• Dolby Atmos & DTS:X: Advanced formats deliver detailed, layered sound. Hear every footstep, voice, and explosion.
• Wireless Rear Speakers & Subwoofer: Connects without cables. Cleaner setup, flexible positioning.
• SmartThings App + SpaceFit: Customise sound with the app. Auto-tuning adjusts output based on your room.

We recently spent time testing the Samsung Q990D, and it left a strong impression. Setup was fast (just plug in, connect to Wi-Fi, and you’re ready), and the SmartThings app made customisation easy.

The soundbar adapted to our space instantly, delivering one of the most immersive experiences we've had from a home audio system.

The 22-speaker setup creates incredibly detailed surround sound. We picked up subtle effects in films—like whispered dialogue and background ambience—that we’d never noticed before. Music playback was equally rich and powerful, especially with the subwoofer well positioned.

The only slight drawback was that music bass could feel a bit restrained depending on placement, but with minor adjustments, the system performed beautifully.

Overall, this is the most cinematic soundbar we’ve tested. If you're looking to transform your home entertainment experience with depth, clarity, and impact—this is the one to beat.

Runner Up

Samsung Q930C Soundbar Speaker (2023) - 17 Speaker Home Sound System

The Samsung Q930C offers a premium surround sound experience without reaching the top-tier price of flagship models. With 17 built-in speakers, wireless rear units, and smart connectivity, this soundbar is ideal for those wanting immersive audio with modern features and flexible setup options.

Key Features

• 17-Speaker Configuration: Includes front, surround, up-firing, and subwoofer channels for 3D Dolby Atmos audio.
• Wireless Subwoofer and Rears: Place freely in your room for tailored surround sound.
• Smart Sound Modes: SpaceFit Sound calibrates automatically; Game Mode Pro adds immersive directional audio.
• Q-Symphony: Syncs with compatible Samsung TVs to combine TV and soundbar speakers.
• Connectivity Options: HDMI, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and AirPlay 2, plus tap-to-connect with Samsung Galaxy devices.
• App & Voice Control: Control through Alexa and Samsung’s SmartThings app for detailed customisation.
• Quick Setup: Easy pairing with TVs and mobile devices; minimal cables required.
• Compact Design: Fits under most TVs with a modern, unobtrusive look.

We tested the Q930C in a mid-sized room and were impressed by its clarity, depth, and power. The rear speakers added true directional sound, especially during films and games. Bass from the 8" subwoofer was strong enough to feel, but easily adjustable.

Setup was simple, and the SmartThings app made tuning individual channels and modes straightforward. Q-Symphony integration added depth when paired with a Samsung TV, offering a richer experience without needing additional hardware.

It’s slightly narrower and lighter in tone than the Q990C, but you’d need to test them side-by-side to notice much difference. For users seeking cinema-like sound without a flagship price tag, the Q930C hits a perfect balance between performance and features.

Budget Pick

Samsung C450 2.1ch 300W Soundbar Speaker (2023)

The Samsung C450 is our top budget-friendly choice for upgrading your TV audio. With powerful sound, versatile features, and a compact design, it delivers excellent value.

It’s ideal for everyday use—whether you're watching films, gaming, or just streaming music—and works well in small to medium spaces.

Key Features

• 3D Surround Sound: Delivers cinematic-style audio that enhances movies, games, and shows.
• Voice Enhancement Mode: Helps lift dialogue clearly, even in busy scenes.
• Bass Boost: Adds punch to music and action scenes when you want more low-end impact.
• Gaming and Adaptive Sound Modes: Tailors audio settings based on content type.
• Wireless Subwoofer (6.5”): Provides deep bass without cluttering your space.
• Multiple Connections: Includes Bluetooth, optical, and HDMI ARC compatibility.
• Wall Mount Kit: Comes with mounting gear for a clean, flexible setup.

We tested the Samsung C450 soundbar across multiple setups and were impressed with how well it performed for its price point. The audio was consistently rich, and the wireless subwoofer brought a satisfying depth to music and action scenes.

Setup was quick and straightforward, with flexible connection options that worked with both newer and older TVs. The Voice Enhancement feature made dialogue easier to follow, especially in films with heavy background effects.

We also found the Bass Boost and Gaming Mode useful for tailoring sound to different activities. While it lacks a dedicated HDMI port on the bar itself, Bluetooth and optical connections covered all our needs.

Overall, if you're after a reliable, entry-level soundbar with great features and solid performance, the Samsung C450 delivers on all fronts without stretching your budget.

Best Sound Quality Pick

Samsung Q600C 3.1.2ch Q Series Soundbar Speaker (2023)

The Samsung Q600C delivers powerful, room-filling sound with a clean and balanced profile, making it our top choice for sound quality. Designed for both films and gaming, it’s especially impressive when paired with a Samsung TV thanks to its seamless Q-Symphony integration.

Key Features

• 9-Speaker Design: Built-in centre speaker enhances dialogue clarity across films and shows.
• Wireless Dolby Atmos & DTS:X: Delivers an immersive, cinematic sound experience without clutter.
• Wireless Subwoofer: The 6.5” sub adds deep, rich bass to fill smaller spaces effortlessly.
• Adaptive Sound Modes: Auto-adjusts for films, games, and night-time listening.
• Game Mode: Creates directional sound to elevate gaming realism.
• Bluetooth Connectivity: Easily pairs with phones and tablets for music and podcasts.
• Quick Setup: Pairs seamlessly with Samsung TVs and supports HDMI ARC and Bluetooth.
• Compact Design: Fits neatly under most TVs, with wireless subwoofer flexibility.

We tested the Q600C with a Samsung OLED TV and were impressed by how immersive the sound became through Q-Symphony. Dialogue was crystal clear, even during action scenes, and the wireless subwoofer added enough bass to give films a more dynamic feel.

The Adaptive Sound feature adjusted to different content types automatically, and the Game Mode really brought spatial audio into play. While the bass isn't overwhelming, it's solid and fills medium-sized rooms easily.

The setup process was nearly instant, especially over HDMI ARC, and we liked the added flexibility of Bluetooth pairing for playing podcasts or music.

If you’re after rich, layered sound without committing to a full surround setup, the Q600C hits the mark. It's reliable, smartly designed, and works especially well when paired with a Samsung TV.

Best All-in-one System Pick

Samsung S50B (2022) - 3.0ch All In One Soundbar With 5 Speakers

The Samsung S50B is a sleek all-in-one soundbar designed to enhance your home entertainment experience with minimal setup and no extra components. Ideal for small to medium-sized spaces, it offers immersive sound, easy connectivity, and seamless integration—especially with Samsung TVs.

Key Features

• Dolby Atmos + DTS Virtual:X: Creates 3D surround sound without external speakers, ideal for films and sports.
• Q-Symphony Compatibility: Pairs with Samsung TVs for a fuller, richer audio experience.
• Adaptive Sound Mode: Adjusts automatically based on content type—dialogue, music, or games.
• Dedicated Modes: Game Mode Pro and Music Mode tailor the sound for immersive gaming and rich audio playback.
• Wireless Connectivity: Supports Bluetooth, AirPlay, and HDMI ARC for quick setup and minimal cable clutter.
• Compact Build: Contains 2 woofers and 3 tweeters in one slim bar, perfect for tidy spaces.
• Optional Expansion: Compatible with wireless subwoofer and rear speakers for surround sound upgrades.

We recently tested the Samsung S50B and found it to be a strong performer in its class. The setup was quick, with HDMI ARC simplifying the connection process and eliminating lip-sync issues. Its built-in speaker array delivered clear dialogue, crisp highs, and balanced sound for day-to-day viewing.

While bass isn't as deep as setups with a separate subwoofer, the soundbar still holds its own—especially with Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X bringing height and space to audio. What impressed us most was the integration with a Samsung TV.

Q-Symphony enhanced immersion without requiring more equipment. Streaming music was effortless via Bluetooth, and switching modes made a noticeable difference for both gaming and music sessions. For a wire-free, all-in-one upgrade, this is a solid choice.

One To Avoid

Samsung C400 2.0ch 270W Soundbar Speaker (2023)

The Samsung C400 2.0ch 270W Soundbar is one we’d recommend avoiding after testing it across multiple devices, including a smart TV and gaming console.

While it does have a built-in woofer that offers decent bass for its size and the compact design makes it easy to fit under most screens, the positives end there.

Sound performance is underwhelming. Dialogue clarity is only marginally better with the Voice Enhancement mode, and the so-called Surround Sound Expansion barely makes a difference.

Action scenes, in particular, lack any depth or immersion, which defeats the purpose of owning a soundbar in the first place. The remote is one of the worst we’ve come across—slow to respond, poorly designed, and frustrating to use.

Manual controls are awkwardly placed on the top, with lights that are almost impossible to see while in use. Connectivity is also limited, with no HDMI input (a huge omission), and the required optical cable isn’t even included in the box.

Bluetooth pairing worked, but latency was an issue depending on the device. There are better soundbars at this price point—some even cheaper. Unless your expectations are very low (and your TV only supports optical out), we’d say this is one of the most disappointing options we’ve tested.

How We Evaluated and Chose the Best Samsung Soundbars on the Market

When selecting the best Samsung soundbars, we didn’t just play a movie and call it a day. We tested each model across key performance areas to understand what truly sets the best apart. From setup to long-term use, every feature and function was put to the test.

Initial Setup and Installation

We began by evaluating how quickly and smoothly each soundbar could be set up. We looked at how easy it was to connect via HDMI ARC, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, and whether the instructions were clear and beginner-friendly.

We also paid attention to the SmartThings app, checking if it made setup and adjustments easier. For Samsung TV owners, we tested Q-Symphony to see how well the soundbar synced with the TV’s built-in speakers for enhanced audio output.

Sound Quality Across Content Types

Sound quality was a key part of our evaluation. We tested each soundbar using films, music, and games to assess how well it handled different types of immersive audio formats. For movies, we focused on dialogue clarity and whether Dolby Atmos soundbars or DTS:X created a convincing surround sound experience.

We also evaluated bass impact during intense scenes. While testing music, we listened for detail in vocals and instruments, ensuring a balanced sound. For gaming, we checked latency and directional audio accuracy to see if the sound kept pace with fast movement and on-screen action.

Room Calibration and Smart Features

Next, we explored how well each soundbar adapted to different room environments. SpaceFit Sound was tested to see how accurately it adjusted based on furniture layout and room size.

We also examined the integration of voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, looking for consistent response and usability. Customisation through the app was another important factor—we checked how easy it was to fine-tune audio settings or apply firmware updates.

Connectivity and Versatility

We tested how easily each soundbar handled switching between devices like TVs, smartphones, and tablets. HDMI pass-through, when available, was tested for quality and stability, especially with 4K and HDR signals.

Features like AirPlay and Samsung's Tap Sound were also assessed to see how reliably and quickly they paired with different devices.

Design, Build, and Placement

Design wasn’t just about aesthetics—we also looked at the build quality and durability of the materials. We considered how well each soundbar fit with a range of TV setups and whether the subwoofer was compact enough for easy placement without sacrificing performance.

For models that included wall-mounting options, we checked how practical and simple the installation process was.

Value for Money

We weighed the features, audio performance, and smart functionality of each model against its price. Soundbars that delivered strong performance without inflating the price earned higher marks, while those with underwhelming features or inconsistent performance were reassessed more critically.

We also compared each soundbar to similarly priced competitors to determine which offered the most value overall.

Long-Term Use and Reliability

Finally, we considered how well each soundbar would hold up over time. We looked for signs of audio drop-off, glitches, or software issues and checked whether the model received regular firmware updates to improve or maintain performance.

Models that offered consistent reliability and support over time were rated more highly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Samsung Sound Bar Better Than Bose?

Deciding if a Samsung sound bar is better than Bose comes down to individual taste. Samsung models typically offer a well-rounded sound, a broad range of features, and great overall value. In contrast, Bose emphasises clean, sharp audio with a sleek, minimalist design.

Both brands perform well—it's all about what matters most to you.

Is Samsung Sound Bar Better Than JBL?

Choosing between a Samsung sound bar and a JBL one depends on your audio preferences. Samsung generally provides a more neutral, detailed sound with added smart features, while JBL is known for its bold, bass-driven audio and straightforward setup.

Both have their strengths—again, it simply depends on your priorities.

Is The Samsung Q Symphony Good?

Yes, the Samsung Q Symphony is a good feature. It allows the soundbar and compatible Samsung TV speakers to work together, producing richer, more immersive audio.

This synchronisation improves clarity and depth without needing additional equipment, making it a standout feature for enhancing home entertainment.

Is A Soundbar Mono Or Stereo?

A soundbar can be either mono or stereo, but most modern soundbars are stereo or multi-channel. Stereo soundbars offer separate left and right audio channels for a more immersive experience.

Some higher-end models even simulate surround sound for added depth, making them superior to traditional mono speakers.

Are Soundbars Better With Subwoofer?

Yes, soundbars are generally better with a subwoofer. A subwoofer enhances low-frequency sounds, adding depth and impact to movies, music, and games.

It makes explosions feel more powerful and music fuller, offering a richer audio experience that a standalone soundbar may struggle to provide on its own.

Is A Soundbar Better Than A Surround Sound System?

Whether a soundbar is better than a surround sound system depends on your space, budget, and expectations. Soundbars offer simplicity, compact design, and easier setup. Surround speakers systems, however, deliver more immersive, true-to-life audio but require more space and wiring.

Each serves different needs effectively.

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Final Word

We hope you found our guide to the best Samsung soundbars helpful in narrowing down the perfect fit for your home entertainment setup. Choosing the right soundbar isn’t easy with so many impressive options, but the Samsung Q990D stood out as our top pick.

Its unbeatable surround sound, Dolby Atmos support, and smart features make it the ultimate choice for immersive audio. The Samsung Q930C is also a strong contender, delivering premium performance at a more accessible price.

For budget-conscious buyers, the Samsung C450 offers excellent value without sacrificing key features. That said, not every model impressed us. The Samsung C400 is one we’d recommend avoiding.

Despite its compact size and built-in woofer, it struggles with sound clarity, connectivity, and user experience—making it a poor investment, especially when better alternatives are available.

So, which soundbar caught your eye? Ready to upgrade your movie nights, or still weighing your options? We’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment below!