In the realm of home audio, soundbars have become an essential part of any entertainment setup. Offering immersive sound quality and a compact form factor, they’re the perfect solution for enhancing the audio experience in your living room or home theater. Two of the most renowned soundbar manufacturers, Bose and Samsung, offer top-of-the-line models that are sure to impress even the most discerning audiophiles: the Bose Soundbar 700 and the Samsung HW-Q950A. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit these two soundbars head-to-head, examining their features, sound performance, connectivity options, and more, to help you make an informed decision about which one is the best fit for your needs.

Sound Quality: A Battle of Titans

Bose Soundbar 700: TrueSpace Technology for Immersive Sound

The Bose Soundbar 700 boasts TrueSpace technology, which uses psychoacoustic principles to create a wide and enveloping soundstage. Its five full-range drivers and a dedicated center channel deliver clear and detailed audio, while the downward-firing subwoofer adds a rich and impactful bass response. The result is a truly immersive sound experience that transports you into the heart of your favorite movies, TV shows, and music.

Samsung HW-Q950A: Dolby Atmos and Q-Symphony for Cinematic Audio

The Samsung HW-Q950A takes sound quality to the next level with its support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X immersive audio formats. Its 11.1.4-channel system, featuring 15 built-in speakers, creates a truly cinematic sound experience. Q-Symphony technology allows the soundbar to seamlessly integrate with compatible Samsung TVs, utilizing the TV’s speakers to enhance the overall soundstage and create a more immersive audio experience.

Design and Aesthetics: Sleek and Sophisticated

Bose Soundbar 700: Minimalist Elegance

The Bose Soundbar 700 exudes minimalist elegance with its sleek and understated design. Its low-profile form factor makes it easy to place under your TV without obstructing the view, while its premium materials and refined finish add a touch of sophistication to any room.

Samsung HW-Q950A: Bold and Eye-Catching

The Samsung HW-Q950A makes a bold statement with its angular design and metallic accents. Its larger size and more aggressive styling may not be to everyone’s taste, but it certainly commands attention and adds a touch of drama to your home theater setup.

Connectivity Options: Wired and Wireless Versatility

Bose Soundbar 700: HDMI ARC and Optical Connectivity

The Bose Soundbar 700 offers a variety of connectivity options, including HDMI ARC and optical digital audio. It also supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for wireless music streaming.

Samsung HW-Q950A: HDMI eARC, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth

The Samsung HW-Q950A boasts a wider range of connectivity options, including HDMI eARC, optical digital audio, and USB. It also supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for wireless music streaming.

Smart Features: Voice Control and Multi-Room Audio

Bose Soundbar 700: Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant Integration

The Bose Soundbar 700 integrates seamlessly with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to control the soundbar and play music using your voice. It also supports Apple AirPlay 2 for multi-room audio with other Apple devices.

Samsung HW-Q950A: Bixby and SmartThings Compatibility

The Samsung HW-Q950A is compatible with Samsung’s Bixby voice assistant and SmartThings ecosystem. It allows you to control the soundbar and other compatible devices using your voice or the SmartThings app.

Performance Verdict: A Close Match

Both the Bose Soundbar 700 and the Samsung HW-Q950A deliver exceptional sound quality, but they excel in different areas. The Bose Soundbar 700 offers a more balanced and refined sound profile, while the Samsung HW-Q950A provides a more immersive and cinematic experience with its Dolby Atmos support and Q-Symphony technology. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific preferences and needs.

Which Soundbar Is Right for You?

If you’re looking for a soundbar that delivers exceptional sound quality in a compact and stylish package, the Bose Soundbar 700 is an excellent choice. However, if you’re seeking a truly immersive cinematic experience with the latest audio formats and advanced smart features, the Samsung HW-Q950A is the soundbar to beat.

What You Need to Know

Q: Which soundbar has a wider soundstage?

A: The Samsung HW-Q950A has a wider soundstage due to its 11.1.4-channel system and support for Dolby Atmos immersive audio.

Q: Can I use either soundbar with my non-Samsung TV?

A: Yes, both the Bose Soundbar 700 and the Samsung HW-Q950A can be used with non-Samsung TVs through HDMI ARC or optical digital audio connections.

Q: Which soundbar is better for music listening?

A: The Bose Soundbar 700 offers a more balanced and refined sound profile, making it a better choice for music listening.

Q: Can I control either soundbar using my smartphone app?

A: Yes, both the Bose Soundbar 700 and the Samsung HW-Q950A can be controlled using their respective smartphone apps.

Q: Which soundbar has a longer warranty?

A: The Samsung HW-Q950A has a one-year warranty, while the Bose Soundbar 700 has a two-year warranty.