JBL Bar 1000MK2 Soundbar vs Samsung HW-Q990H Soundbar

The Samsung HW-Q990H is the stronger pick for most people. It runs a true 11.1.4 layout with four up-firing channels, dual 8-inch subwoofers and a wider set of streaming protocols, and its 4.8 rating from 520 owners backs that up. The JBL Bar 1000MK2 is the more flexible buy: its surround speakers detach from the bar and run on battery for about 10 hours, so you can carry one into another room, and it is far narrower at 19.5 inches. Choose Samsung for maximum immersion and app support; choose JBL for a compact bar and portable surrounds.

• Choose the JBL Bar 1000MK2 if you have a narrow TV stand or wall space, want surround speakers you can unclip and carry to another room, or need Siri and AirPlay-free voice control alongside Alexa and Google.
• Choose the Samsung HW-Q990H if you want the most channels and height drivers, dual subwoofers, and the broadest streaming support including AirPlay, Chromecast and Roon.