It makes sense comparing Samsung HW-Q90R vs Samsung HW-N850 because they both are able to give some premium features. Based on our rating, HW-Q90R has a total rating of 8.2 out of 10 versus 8.6 for HW-N850. The competitors' control buttons are different: power, volume down, volume up, source and power, input, volume down, volume up, respectively.
Both soundbars have active amplification type. A significant difference between the units in the number of channels, the Samsung HW-Q90R has 7.1.4 versus 5.1.2 for the Samsung HW-N850. The output power is different and equal to 512 (overall) W for the HW-Q90R versus 372 (overall) W for the HW-N850. Competitors do not have a built-in subwoofer. Rivals have wireless connection to separate subwoofer. The Samsung HW-Q90R got our rating of 9 out of 10, and the Samsung HW-N850 7 for its audio features and specs. Spotify is available on each of the soundbars.
These models have the ability to connect to the Internet via WI-FI. Rivals from our review have Bluetooth support. The Samsung HW-Q90R has 2/1 HDMI inputs/outputs versus 2/0 of the Samsung HW-N850. The HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) feature supports both devices. Both soundbars have a USB connector. For connectivity, each of the soundbars received a rating of 7/10.
Both models support voice control using Amazon Alexa. App control is available in every soundbar. A built-in microphone is present in each model. Multi-room is available to every soundbar.
Both devices have support for Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format. The surround sound technology DTS:X is supported by devices under review. For multichannel surround Samsung HW-Q90R got a rating of 10, and Samsung HW-N850 9 out of 10.