Samsung vs Sonos Soundbars: 2026 Expert Showdown for Immersive Home Audio

As consumers increasingly prioritize immersive audio experiences in their living rooms, the 2026 soundbar market has become a battleground between two titans: Samsung and Sonos. While both brands offer premium solutions, expert evaluations from Empire Online and What Hi-Fi? reveal stark differences in design philosophy, audio performance, and ecosystem integration that may sway consumer decisions.

According to Empire Online’s 2026 expert roundup, Samsung’s new HW-Q990D model stands out for its aggressive spatial audio implementation, leveraging Dolby Atmos and DTS:X with upward-firing drivers and a robust 11.1.4 channel configuration. The system’s AI-powered sound optimization, which adapts in real-time to room acoustics and content type, was praised for delivering cinema-like depth without requiring additional rear speakers. Samsung’s integration with its SmartThings ecosystem and Tizen OS also allows seamless control via Bixby, Google Assistant, and Apple AirPlay 2 — a rare advantage in the premium segment.

Meanwhile, What Hi-Fi?’s 2026 analysis highlights Sonos’ Arc Gen 2 and Beam Gen 2 as benchmarks for clarity, neutrality, and software longevity. Sonos’ Trueplay tuning, which uses a smartphone’s microphone to calibrate sound to the room, continues to impress for its precision and ease of use. Unlike Samsung’s hardware-centric approach, Sonos emphasizes software updates and multi-room audio interoperability. The Sonos ecosystem allows users to expand their setup with subwoofers, rear speakers, and even portable speakers — all unified under a single, intuitive app. This modularity appeals to users who value flexibility over raw power.

Audio performance diverges significantly between the two. Empire Online’s experts noted Samsung’s ability to produce thunderous bass and expansive soundstages ideal for action films and video games, calling it a "home theater powerhouse." However, they cautioned that the complexity of setup and the sheer size of the system may overwhelm smaller living spaces. Sonos, by contrast, was lauded for its articulate midrange and crisp dialogue reproduction — critical for TV dramas and podcasts. What Hi-Fi? awarded the Sonos Arc Gen 2 its "Best Overall" designation, citing its consistent performance across genres and its industry-leading firmware support, with updates promised for up to seven years.

Connectivity and future-proofing also differ. Samsung’s HDMI eARC 2.0 and Wi-Fi 6E support ensure compatibility with next-gen TVs and streaming devices, while its proprietary wireless rear speaker system reduces cable clutter. Sonos, however, prioritizes Wi-Fi over Bluetooth and lacks native HDMI input, relying on TV eARC for source connectivity — a limitation for users with older AV receivers. Yet Sonos’ open platform supports Spotify Connect, Amazon Music, and Tidal natively, with no proprietary app lock-in.

Price remains a decisive factor. The Samsung HW-Q990D retails at $1,499, while the Sonos Arc Gen 2 with Sub Gen 3 and Era 300 rear speakers totals nearly $2,300. For budget-conscious buyers, Sonos offers the Beam Gen 2 at $449 — a compelling entry point that still delivers the brand’s signature clarity.

Ultimately, the choice hinges on user priorities. Samsung excels for cinephiles seeking a one-box, high-impact solution with cutting-edge hardware. Sonos wins for those who value software reliability, expandability, and a seamless multi-room experience. As home entertainment continues to evolve, both brands demonstrate that the best soundbar isn’t just about speakers — it’s about the ecosystem they create.