Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products .
It’s nice to see Samsung offer something new for 2025. For the last few years, the company has been updating existing designs for its annual refreshes , especially its most premium soundbar, the Q990 . I was pleasantly surprised to see something entirely new when the company debuted the QS700F ( $700 ) at CES. This model doesn’t have the immersive sound that its more expensive sibling offers, but there are several handy features, including the ability to adapt to whichever way you place it.
For all of its might, the QS700F only beams Dolby Atmos in a 3.1.2-channel speaker configuration. Eight total drivers provide the sound here, significantly less than what blasts the 11.1.4-channel sound on the all-in-one Q990F. But the QS700F costs half as much, and for people who live in smaller spaces or have smaller living rooms, this more affordable, adaptable model will serve you just fine.
Samsung 84 100 Expert Score Samsung HW-QS700F The QS700F is an all-new model in a sea of modest annual refreshes for Samsung soundbars. It isn’t perfect, but the combination of design and features offer a compelling alternative to pricier options. Pros Automatic orientation adjustment
Crisp and balanced sound
Refined design
Easy setup Cons 3.1.2-channel audio constrains movie sound
Room calibration and other major features only work with Samsung TVs $498 at Amazon Explore More Buying Options $548 at Macy's$700 at HSN
Design
With the QS700F, Samsung nixed the extra angles from the Q990F since there are no side-firing drivers here. This gives the soundbar a simplified, brick-like rectangular shape that’s less of a distraction in front of your TV. The QS700F is also shorter when laid horizontally on a table or mantle, which means it doesn’t block your TV.
... continue reading