Top Samsung Soundbars for 2026: Elevate Your TV's Audio Experience

Explore the best Samsung soundbars in 2026 that deliver stunning sound quality to complement your TV perfectly.

When it comes to enhancing your TV’s sound, few upgrades are as satisfying as adding a soundbar tailored to your setup. Having spent over a decade diving deep into countless soundbar reviews and hands-on tests, I've curated the cream of the crop for Samsung TVs in 2026. The standout winner? The incredible Samsung HW-Q990D. Trust me, these soundbars are game-changers, especially if you want your audio to match the stunning visuals Samsung is known for.

Why Upgrade Your Samsung TV Sound?

Samsung TVs are beautifully slim and pack fantastic visuals, but one catch is the built-in sound—they tend to lose punch as their designs get thinner. That’s where soundbars swoop in to rescue your ears. Many of the latest models feature Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, eARC, and other tech goodies that bring immersive sound right into your living room.

Samsung’s exclusive Q-Symphony technology is a gem, too, syncing the soundbar with your TV’s speakers for a richer, more layered audio experience. It’s like your TV's speakers and soundbar become bandmates playing in perfect harmony.

Quick Picks Summary

1. Premium Pick: Samsung HW-Q990D

Flagship 11.1.4 channel system delivering breathtaking immersion.

2. Budget Favorite: Denon DHT-S316

Great sound and build quality with subwoofer, all at a wallet-friendly price.

3. Best for Most Users: Samsung HW-Q800B

Perfect price-to-performance balance, featuring Dolby Atmos support.

Premium Soundbar for Samsung TVs

Samsung HW-Q990D: The Ultimate Audio Immersion

This flagship soundbar is truly in a league of its own, boasting an 11.1.4-channel setup with a total of 22 speakers. It creates a mind-blowing 3D soundscape, especially with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, making you feel like you’re sitting in a cinema.

Specs:

• Ports: 1 HDMI out, 2 HDMI in, optical input, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
• eARC Support: Yes
• Audio Config: 11.1.4 channels, 22 speakers

Pros:

• Incredible 3D surround effect
• Outstanding sound quality overall
• HDMI 2.1 passthrough for next-gen consoles and 4K/120Hz content

Cons:

• Requires space for its multiple components (soundbar, subwoofer, two wireless rear speakers)

This soundbar is designed for TVs 55 inches and larger, and it truly shines when paired with Samsung’s Q-Symphony, syncing soundbar and TV speakers seamlessly. The HW-Q990D’s HDMI 2.1 support is a boon for gamers with next-gen consoles. If that’s not a priority, you might consider its slightly older sibling or the 2025 HW-Q990F, which sports a smaller subwoofer for tighter spaces.

Price Range: Around $1,350-$1,850 (converted estimate) via parallel imports and electronics retailers.

Note on Usage: The device is fully functional with Samsung TVs, and the SmartThings app works smoothly (Samsung account needed). Be mindful that power plugs might require adapters due to import sources.

The HW-Q990D delivers cinema-grade sound with a truly immersive Dolby Atmos experience.

Best Budget Soundbar

Denon DHT-S316: Value That Surprises

If you want to upgrade your TV sound without burning a hole in your wallet, the Denon DHT-S316 is a fantastic choice. It’s simple, well-built, and comes with a subwoofer, delivering crisp audio that far outperforms typical TV speakers.

Specs:

• Ports: 1 HDMI in, optical input, 3.5mm jack, USB, Bluetooth 4.2
• eARC: No
• Dolby Atmos/DTS:X: No
• Audio Config: 3 speakers, 2.1 channels

Pros:

• Clear and scaled sound
• Solid build quality

Cons:

• Treble could be brighter

Don’t expect fancy 3D sound or eARC here, but if you're after straightforward, quality audio with some bass boost, this is a steal. It’s widely available at audio stores and online marketplaces.

Price Range: Roughly $350-$450, offering impressive bang for the buck.

Usage Tips: No Wi-Fi or cloud dependencies mean no service interruptions. Connect via HDMI ARC or optical cable with zero fuss.

Most Versatile Soundbar for Everyday Use

Samsung HW-Q800B: Balanced and Reliable

For those who want Dolby Atmos and DTS:X without breaking the bank, the HW-Q800B strikes a superb balance. Its 5.1.2 channel setup includes upward-firing speakers for immersive height effects.

Specs:

• Ports: 1 HDMI out, 1 HDMI in, optical, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
• eARC: Yes
• Dolby Atmos/DTS:X: Yes
• Audio Config: 10 speakers, 5.1.2 channels

Pros:

• Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
• Option to add wireless rear speakers

Cons:

• Bass can sometimes overshadow other frequencies

While newer models like the HW-Q800C and HW-Q800D have replaced it in stores, the Q800B remains an excellent pick if you find one used or on clearance. It supports Q-Symphony for that perfect Samsung audio blend.

Price Range: Around $800-$1,000 for newer variants; Q800B might be less on secondary markets.

Notes: Like all Samsung soundbars, check the power plug compatibility and make sure you have any necessary adapters.

Top Sonos Option

Sonos Arc: The Multirooom Marvel

If you’re already invested in the Sonos ecosystem or want a fantastic Dolby Atmos experience with multiroom capabilities, the Sonos Arc is a top contender.

Specs:

• Connections: 1 HDMI eARC, 1 optical, 1 Ethernet, Wi-Fi
• eARC: Yes
• Dolby Atmos: Yes (DTS:X not supported)
• Audio Config: 11 speakers

Pros:

• Superb Dolby Atmos sound with impressive height and width
• Excellent for film and music

Cons:

• No HDMI passthrough, so you lose a TV port
• Limited DTS:X support

The Arc sounds incredible despite its single-unit design and works well with the Sonos Sub and other speakers for a full surround sound setup. Just remember, it demands a bit of juggling with HDMI inputs.

Price Range: Approximately $1,100 to $1,350 via parallel importers.

Usage Notes: Setup might require region tweaking, and voice assistant features could be limited.

Flexible Soundbar with Detachable Rear Speakers

JBL Bar 1300: Adaptable and Powerful

JBL takes a fresh approach with the Bar 1300—its side modules detach wirelessly to become rear speakers, offering a clutter-free surround experience.

Specs:

• Connections: 3 HDMI in, 1 HDMI eARC out, optical, Ethernet
• eARC: Yes
• Dolby Atmos/DTS:X: Yes
• Audio Config: 11.1.4 channels

Pros:

• Multiple HDMI inputs plus eARC
• Detachable wireless rear speakers

Cons:

• No 4K/120Hz passthrough or VRR support

This setup is a solid alternative if you want flexibility without the mess of wires trailing everywhere. The Dolby Atmos immersion is cinematic, though it lacks Samsung’s Q-Symphony magic.

Price Range: Around $1,100 to $1,600 from major retailers.

Usage Tips: JBL One app helps with customization, and wireless rear speakers recharge directly from the main unit—clever and convenient.

Compact Soundbar for Smaller Samsung TVs

Yamaha SR-C20A: Small but Mighty

For smaller rooms or TVs up to 32 inches, the Yamaha SR-C20A packs surprising power into a compact frame.

Specs:

• Ports: 1 HDMI out (ARC), 2 optical inputs, 3.5mm, Bluetooth 5.0
• eARC: No (only ARC)
• Dolby Atmos/DTS:X: No
• Audio Config: 2.1 channels

Pros:

• Strong audio for size
• Very compact design
• Precise app control

Cons:

• Remote control features are limited

Despite the modest power (100W), it delivers clear dialogue and boosted soundscapes, making it perfect for desktops or smaller TVs.

Price Range: Around $220-$280, making it a great entry option.

Usage Notes: Easy setup and stable app control; power plug adapters may be needed but are straightforward to manage.

Honorable Mentions

Sonos Arc Ultra: An upgrade over the standard Arc with more power but still lacks HDMI passthrough.

Harman Kardon Citation Multibeam 1100: A solid alternative with HDMI passthrough support (not for 120Hz).

Sonos Beam (2nd Gen): Compact and all-in-one, perfect if the Arc feels too big.

Amazon Fire TV Soundbar: Ultra-budget friendly, better than TV speakers but nothing fancy.

How to Choose the Perfect Samsung Soundbar

When picking your ideal soundbar, consider your budget, design preferences, and must-have features.

Price

Soundbars start under $100 for basic PC setups but can exceed $1,500 for premium home theater rigs.

Design

Samsung TVs are sleek and modern—your soundbar should complement that without covering the IR sensor or causing glare.

Q-Symphony

Opt for Samsung soundbars supporting Q-Symphony if you want your TV and soundbar speakers to work together.

Connectivity

HDMI with eARC is essential for the best sound and easy setup. Gamers should seek HDMI 2.1 for 4K/120Hz passthrough.

Surround Sound

Look for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X if immersive 3D sound is a priority; more upward-firing speakers mean better spatial sound.

How We Test Samsung Soundbars

We approach testing like a passionate fan: checking specs, unboxing, setup ease, and how the sound performs across TV shows, 4K Blu-rays, streaming, and gaming.

Our expert ears evaluate bass, clarity, highs, and distortion, plus how well features like Dolby Atmos and AI modes work in real-world home settings.

FAQ

• What’s the difference between a soundbar with a subwoofer and one without?
  Soundbars with a subwoofer deliver deeper, richer bass, essential for movies and music, while standalone bars may lack low-end punch.
• Do I need Dolby Atmos support for better sound?
  Dolby Atmos adds height and directionality to sound, creating a more immersive experience, especially in larger rooms.
• Can I use any soundbar with my Samsung TV?
  Yes, but Samsung soundbars with Q-Symphony sync better with TV speakers for optimal sound layering.
• What’s eARC, and why should I care?
  eARC allows uncompressed high-quality audio to pass through HDMI, enabling features like Dolby Atmos without loss.
• Are wireless rear speakers worth it?
  Absolutely, if you want true surround sound without messy wires, but they often increase the price and space needed.

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