Samsung HW-Q990F vs Sonos Arc Ultra
Critics score the Samsung HW-Q990F 89 and the Sonos Arc Ultra 88 out of 100, from 11 and 21 professional reviews. 8 outlets reviewed both: 2 scored the Samsung HW-Q990F higher, 2 scored the Sonos Arc Ultra higher and 4 gave both the same score.
Image: SamsungSamsung HW-Q990F
Praised for: sound quality (9 of 11), ease of use (6 of 11), connectivity (3 of 11)
Criticised for: price (7 of 11)
The catch: Very expensive, and needs room for the speakers.
All 11 reviews of the Samsung HW-Q990F →
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Image: SonosSonos Arc Ultra
Praised for: sound quality (19 of 21), ease of use (5 of 21), connectivity (3 of 21)
Criticised for: price (14 of 21), controls and app (6 of 21)
The catch: Expensive, and no HDMI passthrough.
All 21 reviews of the Sonos Arc Ultra →
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Critics who reviewed both
The fairest comparison: the same reviewer, the same standards| Outlet | Samsung HW-Q990F | Sonos Arc Ultra | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| TechRadar | 95 | 80 | +15 |
| What Hi-Fi? | 95 | 89est. | +6 |
| Business Insider | 85est. | 85est. | same |
| Expert Reviews | 95 | 95 | same |
| Homes and Gardens | 95 | 95 | same |
| PCMag Middle East | 90 | 90 | same |
| The Independent | 85est. | 95 | -10 |
| WIRED | 80 | 90 | -10 |
Scores converted to 0–100. Difference is the Samsung HW-Q990F minus the Sonos Arc Ultra. Outlined tiles are estimated from the verdict. Each score links to the review.
Direct comparisons
Reviewers who put these two side by side. These never change a score.
- ZDNET says it depends: the Samsung HW-Q990F if You want a full surround system out of the box, need DTS:X, or own a Samsung TV.; the Sonos Arc Ultra if You want strong sound from one bar, already use Sonos, or prefer simple minimalist setup you can expand later.
- What Hi-Fi? says it depends: the Samsung HW-Q990F if You want a complete home cinema solution with rear speakers, a sub and more HDMI inputs.; the Sonos Arc Ultra if You want a premium single bar that is strong on music and precise spatial sound.
Compare either one with another soundbar → · All soundbars ranked →
Common questions
Which is better, the Samsung HW-Q990F or the Sonos Arc Ultra?
Critics rate the Samsung HW-Q990F higher: 89 against 88. 8 outlets reviewed both: 2 scored the Samsung HW-Q990F higher, 2 scored the Sonos Arc Ultra higher and 4 gave both the same score.
Do critics agree about the Samsung HW-Q990F and the Sonos Arc Ultra?
The Samsung HW-Q990F: broad agreement, scores from 80 to 95. The Sonos Arc Ultra: broad agreement, scores from 80 to 95.