Design and build:

Comparing Samsung Q700A vs Q700B, the Samsung Q700A is shorter in width. It is suitable for mid sized TVs like 55 or 65” screens. The HW-Q700B model is a good fit for 75” TVs. While the Q700A is a rectangular bar, the Q700B has curved sides. The soundbars are made of good quality plastic and have metal grilles. To give your room a cleaner look, attach them on walls with the included brackets. Overall, the build quality of the subwoofer and the soundbar is quite sturdy.

Performance:

Samsung Q700A and Q700B are 3.1.2 channel soundbars that have 6.5” subwoofers. They support basic audio codecs like Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital and DTS. Both the bars use Acoustic Beam Technology to improve the height performance.

Samsung HW-Q700A has a total of 8 drivers. It has a broad soundstage and has good accuracy. With a SPL of more than 90 dB, it works great as a party speaker but we suggest to place them in compact spaces. Although the bar does not have any voice enhancement mode, it has excellent center channel performance thanks to the dedicated center channel.

Surround sound is decent but average. It is better than TV speaker and you have the chance to improve it. We love how this compact speaker can deliver good Atmos effects. This adds a ‘shine’ to the movies and music even if it is not top notch. Bass response is deep and tight. We watched a perfect sync in audio and video while watching music videos or TV shows.

Samsung HW-Q700B has a total 9 drivers. The soundbar has a moderately broad soundstage. Low ends are powerful and impactful even if it is not room shaking. It can deliver room-filling sound and has amazing clarity in vocals. Users can watch dialogue heavy movies and TV shows without any issue. It is also packed with voice improvement options along with Active Voice Amplifier. These options are not available in Q700A.

The soundbar delivers a decent and enjoyable 3D sound. Surround sound is good and will dramatically improve with the addition of rear speakers. Similar to Samsung Q700A, it is suitable for small spaces and should not be played at high volumes. Comparing Samsung Q700A vs Q700B, the Q700B can be considered an improved version with a better audio performance. However, the difference is subtle and is not like ‘night and day’.

Features: 

The soundbars support HDMI 2.1 that supports 4k video and HDR. With HDR, the color contrast and image quality improves. They have the Tap Sound feature where you can give a tap with smartphone for streaming contents. Both the soundbars are expandable with wireless surround speakers. They are compatible with Samsung SWA-9500S model.

Comparing Samsung Q700A vs Q700B, the Q700B has both Chromecast and Airplay. The Chromecast is not available in 700A model. With Chromecast, the Q700B can Cast contents easily compatible apps. It will work with popular services like Pandora, YouTube music, etc. With 3^rd party voice enabled devices, the bar can also be controlled with Google Assistant.

Connectivity:

You will find the following ports in the soundbars: optical, HDMI ARC, and HDMI In. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are available for streaming contents from smartphone or internet. The soundbars can connect to Bluetooth TVs wirelessly.

Control options:

Comparing Samsung Q700B v Q700A bars can be controlled with Alexa. For Q700A, you will need Alexa supported device like Amazon Echo. The Q700B is more versatile as it can be controlled with Google Assistant as well (need 3^rd party device). Basic options are available on the including volume, power and input change.

The soundbars have remote controls that have few buttons and are quite handy. If you Samsung TV (selected models), then you can also control the bar with the TV remote as well. Mobile app is also available known as Samsung SmartThings.

Settings:

Samsung Q700A and Q700B offers several settings and options. They have the following sound modes: Adaptive Sound, 3D Surround, Game Pro and Stereo. There is AV Sync that ensures there are no delays in audio and video. Then there is equalizer for bass and treble adjustment, they also have channel level adjustment for height, center and subwoofer. The soundbars can perform room calibration with SpaceFit feature but for that you will need a Samsung TV.

The Samsung Q700B has few additional settings that are not available in the 700A model. It has voice enhancement and night mode. There is also an Active Voice Amplifier than analyzes each scene to optimize the dialogues. On the other hand, Q700A has DRC that helps improve the performance of Dolby Digital files.

Cost:

Samsung Q700A and Q700B Dolby Atmos soundbars are available at a similar price range that exceeds $500. The cost is reasonable as the bar includes a dedicated subwoofer.

FAQ:

Which Samsung soundbar is better than Samsung Q700A or Q700B?

Samsung Q700A and Q700B are good for general use and will act as a dramatic upgrade over TV speakers. However, if you are serious about your ‘sound’, then check the Samsung Q990B model. It is a 11.1.4 channel bar that delivers powerful soundfield and Atmos effects. Independent subwoofer and rear speakers can deliver punchier bass and impressive surrounds.