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The Samsung HW-Q990F and Sonos Arc Ultra represent two distinct approaches to premium home theater audio, but both are highly praised for their quality and features. Both are excellent systems, but they're built for different kinds of buyers with somewhat different priorities.
Also: I compared the two best ANC earbuds by Apple and Bose, and there's a sonic difference
The Samsung HW-Q990F is Samsung's 2025 flagship, offering a complete surround sound package. The Sonos Arc Ultra takes a different approach, at least in its base form. It's a standalone soundbar that works within the Sonos ecosystem, letting you use it on its own or expand it with additional Sonos speakers and a subwoofer later.
So, which of these systems is better? Here's my take.
Specifications
Samsung HW-Q990F Sonos Arc Ultra Dimensions 48.5 x 2.8 x 5.4 inches 46.4 x 4.4 x 3.0 inches Colors Black Black, White Channels 11.1.4 9.1.4 Ports HDMI (x2), Optical, Ethernet HDMI eARC, Ethernet Wireless connectivity Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.3 Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3 Wireless compatibility AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect Expandability Samsung TVs Sonos speakers, subwoofers Price $2,000 $1,100
You should buy the Samsung HW-Q990F if...
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