It makes sense comparing Samsung HW-Q80R vs JBL Bar 5.1 because they both are able to give some premium features. Based on our rating, HW-Q80R has a total rating of 8 out of 10 versus 7.2 for Bar 5.1. The competitors' control buttons are different: power, volume down, volume up, source and power, volume down, volume up, input, respectively.
Both soundbars have active amplification type. A significant difference between the units in the number of channels, the Samsung HW-Q80R has 5.1.2 versus 5.1 for the JBL Bar 5.1. The output power is different and equal to 372 (overall) W for the HW-Q80R versus 510 (overall) W for the Bar 5.1. Competitors do not have a built-in subwoofer. Rivals have wireless connection to separate subwoofer. Both models received our 8 rating of 10 for their audio features and specs. Spotify is available on each of the soundbars.
Only the Samsung HW-Q80R can connect to the Internet via WI-FI. Rivals from our review have Bluetooth support. The Samsung HW-Q80R has 2/1 HDMI inputs/outputs versus 3/0 of the JBL Bar 5.1. The HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) feature supports both devices. Both soundbars have a USB connector. For connectivity, the HW-Q80R received a rating of 7/10 versus 8/10, respectively.
Both models support voice control using Amazon Alexa. App control is available in every soundbar. A built-in microphone is present only on the HW-Q80R. Multi-room is only available for the Samsung HW-Q80R.
Only the HW-Q80R has a Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format support. A surround technology DTS:X is supported only by the HW-Q80R. For multichannel surround Samsung HW-Q80R got a rating of 10, and JBL Bar 5.1 4 out of 10.