Sonos Sub 4
Score: 86/100
Samsung Q990F
Score: 93/100Rankings
The Samsung HW-Q990F is a premium 11.1.4-channel sound system featuring wireless rear speakers and a dual-8-inch subwoofer, delivering immersive Dolby Atmos and AI-enhanced calibration. Its need for AC power at each speaker and occasional bass distortion at high levels make it less suited for minimalist setups. Best for large-room home-theater fans who own Samsung TVs and want top-tier 3D audio.
The Sonos Sub 4 is a wireless subwoofer with dual inward-facing 5"×8" drivers delivering deep 25 Hz bass and automatic Trueplay tuning. Its Wi-Fi-only connectivity and substantial weight can limit flexibility for non-Sonos setups. Ideal for Sonos ecosystem owners seeking powerful bass in medium-to-large rooms.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
25 Hzbest | — | |
5 in | 8 inbest | |
— | 8 inbest | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 48 Wbest |
| ↓ lower better | 26.46 lbbest | 41.887 lb |
15.83 inbest | 9.92 in | |
15.31 in | 48.5 inbest | |
6.22 in | 9.8 inbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(1) | ||
Driver Size (in) | 5 in | 8 in |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Input Type | WiFi | HDMI, Optical, Bluetooth |
Build & Design(4) | ||
Weight (lb) | 26.46 lb | 41.887 lb |
Height (in) | 15.83 in | 9.92 in |
Width (in) | 15.31 in | 48.5 in |
Depth (in) | 6.22 in | 9.80 in |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers highlight the Sub 4's deep 25 Hz low-frequency response with force-canceling dual woofers, automatic Trueplay room-acoustic tuning and app-adjustable EQ deliver optimized bass for any space. Flexible placement allows vertical or horizontal orientation, even under furniture, for hidden installs.
Professional reviewers consider the HW-Q990F a benchmark for home-theater sound, applauding its 11.1.4 channel architecture, precise Atmos height localization, AI-driven room calibration and robust connectivity. They note the need for power cords and the extra cost of optional services like Roon.
Everyday users rave about the stunning 3D Atmos experience, easy Samsung TV pairing and the convenience of wireless rear speakers, but many express frustration over the requirement for AC power at each speaker, occasional bass distortion at high volumes, and a steep learning curve for non-Samsung setups.
