JBL BAR 1000MK2 Soundbar vs TCL Q85H 7.1.4 Sound Bar

The JBL BAR 1000MK2 is the stronger pick for most people: a bigger 10-inch subwoofer, detachable battery-powered surrounds you can carry into another room, and higher owner ratings. The TCL Q85H is a solid alternative with a metal build, AirPlay 2 and a lower total power figure, but owners are less enthusiastic about its clarity. Buy the JBL if sound quality and bass depth matter most; buy the TCL if you want AirPlay 2 and a simpler one-cable setup.

• Choose the JBL BAR 1000MK2 if you want the deepest bass, detachable surrounds you can take to another room, and the best-reviewed sound of the two.
• Choose the TCL Q85H if you use Apple devices, want AirPlay 2 and Roku TV integration, and prefer a metal-bodied bar with a smaller subwoofer footprint.