It makes sense comparing Sony HT-Z9F vs Sonos Playbar because they both are able to give some premium features. Based on our rating, HT-Z9F has a total rating of 7.2 out of 10 versus 5.5 for Playbar. The competitors' control buttons are different: power, input, Bluetooth, music service, volume down, volume up and play/pause, volume up, volume down, respectively.
Both soundbars have active amplification type. A significant difference between the units in the number of channels, the Sony HT-Z9F has 3.1 versus 3.0 for the Sonos Playbar. Competitors do not have a built-in subwoofer. Rivals have wireless connection to separate subwoofer. Both models received our 7 rating of 10 for their 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. Only the HT-Z9F has Bluetooth support. Only the HT-Z9F supports HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC). For connectivity, the HT-Z9F received a rating of 8/10 versus 3/10, respectively. App control is available for the Playbar. None of the models under consideration have a built-in microphone. Multi-room is only available for the Sony HT-Z9F.
Only the HT-Z9F has a Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format support. A surround technology DTS:X is supported only by the HT-Z9F. For multichannel surround Sony HT-Z9F got a rating of 8, and Sonos Playbar 4 out of 10.