Hiwill-Audio Wooden 5.1.2 Sound Bars, 4 Surround vs Samsung HW-S801B/ZA 3.1.2ch Soundbar w/ Wireless

Design and Build Quality

The Hiwill-Audio Wooden 5.1.2 Sound Bars feature solid wood cabinets, while the Samsung HW-S801B/ZA boasts an ultra-slim design. Hiwill-Audio's soundbar is crafted from premium materials, including aluminum-magnesium alloy drivers, which contribute to its robust quality. In contrast, Samsung's soundbar delivers high-quality audio in a sleek, low-profile package. While the Hiwill-Audio soundbar emphasizes a more traditional and premium aesthetic, the Samsung soundbar prioritizes modernity and minimalism. The choice between these designs will depend on personal preference; customers looking for a classic look may favor the Hiwill-Audio, while those who favor contemporary styles may lean towards Samsung.

Audio Performance

When it comes to audio performance, the Hiwill-Audio Wooden 5.1.2 Sound Bars promise cinematic audio with 11 premium drivers, including a dedicated 5.25-inch down-firing subwoofer. This setup aims to deliver immersive sound, although it does not support Dolby Atmos or DTS formats. In contrast, the Samsung HW-S801B/ZA offers a true 3.1.2 channel sound experience with wireless Dolby Atmos, which provides a surround sound experience that encompasses not just the front but also above the listener. This makes the Samsung soundbar potentially superior for those who prioritize advanced audio technology and immersive soundscapes.

Surround Sound Experience

The Hiwill-Audio soundbar utilizes its Discrete Spatial Expansion Technology to create an expansive soundstage, enhancing the surround experience with its four surround speakers. This feature aims to provide immersive audio for daily entertainment, even if it lacks the Dolby Atmos certification. Meanwhile, the Samsung soundbar supports wireless Dolby Atmos, allowing for a more sophisticated surround sound experience by placing sound above the listener. Overall, the Samsung soundbar may offer a more advanced and immersive experience for movie buffs and gamers who enjoy high-fidelity audio.

Features and Technology

The Hiwill-Audio soundbar is designed with a focus on robust build quality and sound performance, featuring a straightforward connection setup. However, it lacks some of the advanced features found in the Samsung HW-S801B/ZA, such as Alexa integration and SpaceFit Sound technology, which automatically calibrates audio to fit the room's acoustics. The Samsung soundbar also includes Q-Symphony, allowing it to synchronize seamlessly with compatible Samsung TVs. For tech-savvy users looking for integrated smart features, Samsung's offering is clearly the more advanced choice.

Price Comparison

The Hiwill-Audio Wooden 5.1.2 Sound Bars are priced at $99.99, significantly lower than the Samsung HW-S801B/ZA's price of $465.00. This means the Hiwill-Audio soundbar is about 78% cheaper than its Samsung counterpart. While Hiwill-Audio offers an attractive entry price, the Samsung soundbar's higher cost can be justified by its advanced features, including wireless Dolby Atmos and a more refined design. Buyers must consider whether they value these additional features enough to pay the premium.

Sales Performance

In terms of sales performance, the Hiwill-Audio soundbar has a bestseller rank of 8585, indicating a moderate level of market interest. Conversely, the Samsung HW-S801B/ZA is ranked much higher at 2587, suggesting that it is more popular among consumers. This difference in sales rank could indicate a preference for Samsung's advanced technology and features, which may resonate better with buyers looking for a high-end audio experience.

User Experience

The user experience is characterized by the ease of use and setup of both soundbars. The Hiwill-Audio soundbar features a simple connection process, making it accessible for users who may not be tech-savvy. Meanwhile, the Samsung soundbar offers additional conveniences such as Alexa built-in and Airplay 2, enhancing its usability for a modern smart home environment. Users accustomed to voice commands and smart integrations will likely find the Samsung product more appealing, while those seeking a straightforward audio solution might prefer the Hiwill-Audio option.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Hiwill-Audio Wooden 5.1.2 Sound Bars and the Samsung HW-S801B/ZA largely depends on your audio needs and budget. If you are looking for an affordable soundbar with solid audio performance and a focus on build quality, the Hiwill-Audio model is a compelling choice at $99.99. However, if you prioritize advanced audio technologies like wireless Dolby Atmos, smart features, and a more refined design, the Samsung soundbar, although significantly more expensive at $465.00, may be worth the investment. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your specific audio preferences and budget constraints.