Design and build:

Samsung HW-Q990B and HW-Q950A are similar sized soundbars. They are large enough to fit under big TV screens like 75 to 80”. Comparing Samsung Q990B vs Q950A, the Q990B has better built. While both the bars are made of plastic, Samsung Q990B has metal grilles compared to the cloth type grille of Q950A. Satellite speakers of Q990B model is made of plastic and covered with metal grille, while that of Q950A has cloth type grille.

The subwoofer of the Q990B has a plastic covering which feels durable. These bars are both wall mountable and includes mounting accessories. They both have displays but the Q950A has it on the top panel which makes it difficult to see from the sitting position. Overall build feels more premium and durable with the Q990B.

Performance:

Samsung Q990B is an upgraded model that comes after the Q950A. They are both 11.1.4 channel soundbars. They work with SpaceFit and Auto SubEQ to adjust the sound of the bar and subwoofer based on room layout. Both these soundbars can use Q-Symphony feature where the TV and bar will play together to deliver a more realistic and engaging sound.

They both have wide soundstage that can be improved slightly with Adaptive mode. The soundstage is a bit wider than the bar thanks to the side-firing drivers and rear speakers. With a SPL of around 100 dB, both these models can get quite loud. They are suitable for large spaces.

Samsung HW-Q990B has a total of 17 drivers. The soundbar sounds rich, detailed and the performance remains consistent at all volumes. Low volume scenes are clear and understandable. In terms of surrounds, the Q990B bar shows its power and room-filling capacity. Audio seems to encircle the user and with dedicated rear speakers, it feels pure and engaging. Dialogues are clear and intelligible but they are clearer with the Q950A bar.

With neutral mids, the bar can play different types of music contents quite well. Bass heavy contents are handled with adequate thump. Different sound modes are available so that users can take advantage of them. Overall, with this bar you will get an enthralling experience.

Samsung HW-Q950A has 11 speakers, 4 Atmos speakers and a subwoofer. Movie sounds, action-packed parts and effects are produced with accuracy. There is dramatic improvement when it is connected to the TV. Overhead effects create a powerful hemisphere of sound. Heights are elevated just as where they should be. This is similar for the Q990B soundbar. With dedicated upward-firing drivers

The bar has adequate punch and good attack. Voices are exceptionally clear and accurate. The subwoofer adds good amount of punchier bass. Comparing the Samsung Q950A vs Q990B, the Q990B has better low ends. It seems to integrate seamlessly with the sound. The bar has average dynamics but great surrounds. Sound engulfs the user from all around making movie effects more prominent.

Features:

While both soundbars have Airplay, they do not support Chromecast. Airplay 2 allows streaming from Apple devices and apps. Users can take advantage and talk to Siri. They can stream contents to different rooms. They can also stream same content in all or different contents in each room. They are suitable for gaming as they have HDMI 2.1. It allows 4k @ 60Hz passthrough and, supports VRR and ALLM.

The soundbars can connect to Bluetooth TVs wirelessly. This will eliminate the need of wires giving rooms a neat look. Samsung has an option called Tap Sound where users can tap their smartphone on the top of these

Connectivity:

The Samsung soundbars have similar connection ports. They have optical port, HDMI eARC and 2 HDMI In. To stream contents wirelessly, they work with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

Control options:

Samsung HW-Q950A and HW-Q990B have sleek and slim remote controls. In case you connect a Samsung Smart TV (2017 or higher models), then the TV remote will be able to control the bars. Physical controls include mic mute/unmute, volume controls and input change.

To control the bar with voice, you need to rely on Amazon Alexa only. In case, you want some privacy there is option to mute the mic. Samsung SmartThings app is also available.

Settings:

These Samsung Dolby Atmos soundbars have similar settings and options. They are quite versatile and give users lots of options. They have a 7-band EQ, sound modes (adaptive sound, 3D surround, game pro, stereo), voice enhancement, virtual surround and night mode. Users can also adjust the levels of height, surround, rear and subwoofer.

Cost:

Comparing Samsung Q990B vs Q950A, the Q950A is the pricier one that exceeds $1300. The Q990B is in the market for under $1000. The Q990B is suitable for users with a tight budget even though the difference is not much.