Samsung vs LG Soundbars: HDMI and eARC Differences

Why HDMI and eARC matter

HDMI is the primary connection for a soundbar to your TV. It carries both audio and video, and the Audio Return Channel (ARC) and enhanced ARC (eARC) let the TV send audio back to the bar. The HDMI specification defines these features, as explained by the HDMI Forum. For most setups, an HDMI eARC connection is essential for modern audio formats.

Without eARC, you may be limited to compressed audio like Dolby Digital, which lacks the height channels and object-based effects of Dolby Atmos. Many streaming services now offer Atmos in a compressed form that works over ARC, but for the full lossless experience from Blu-ray or high-end streaming, eARC is the way to go. This matters when you invest in a Dolby Atmos soundbar.

We recommend reading our HDMI ARC vs eARC guide to understand the difference before shopping.

HDMI port layout: what to check

Soundbars differ in how many HDMI ports they include. The minimum is one HDMI eARC port that connects to your TV, but many bars add one or more HDMI inputs for game consoles, streaming sticks, or Blu-ray players. If your TV has few HDMI ports, a soundbar with multiple inputs can act as a switch, consolidating devices and reducing cable clutter.

When comparing Samsung and LG soundbars, pay attention to the number of inputs and their version. A bar with HDMI 2.1 ports can pass through higher bandwidth video, which is important for gamers who want 4K at 120Hz with VRR. However, not all gaming features passthrough a soundbar, so you need to verify the spec sheet.

For a full breakdown of input configurations, see our soundbar HDMI connections guide. It explains the difference between a single ARC port and a proper switch with multiple inputs.

• Look for an HDMI eARC labeled port on the bar and the TV.
• Confirm the number of HDMI inputs and their version.
• Check the bandwidth supported: standard, high-speed, or ultra high-speed.
• Consider if the bar supports HDMI-CEC for one-remote control.

eARC support: why it matters

eARC carries the highest-bandwidth audio formats, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X in their lossless variants. Without eARC, ARC is limited to compressed 5.1 audio. This is why eARC support is a priority for a home theater soundbar.

Both Samsung and LG include eARC on many of their mid-range and premium soundbars, but verify the spec sheet for the exact model. Budget bars may only have ARC, which still works for basic Dolby Digital but cannot handle the object-based formats that a modern surround system benefits from. If you are building a full 5.1 or 7.1 setup, eARC is non-negotiable.

It is also worth checking if the TV you own supports eARC. Some older TVs only have ARC, so even if the soundbar supports eARC, you will fall back to ARC. In that case, an optical connection might be a backup, but it also loses high-resolution audio.

Video passthrough: 4K and HDR

If you connect a video source directly to the soundbar, the bar must pass the video signal to the TV. Check if the soundbar supports 4K resolution and HDR formats like HDR10 and Dolby Vision. Some older bars only pass 1080p, which defeats the purpose of a 4K TV.

For gaming, HDMI 2.1 features like 4K at 120Hz and Variable Refresh Rate may matter. Keep in mind that not all soundbars with HDMI 2.1 inputs support VRR or ALLM; they may only passthrough the signal. You might be better off connecting your console directly to the TV and using eARC for audio, especially if your TV has multiple HDMI 2.1 ports.

When choosing between Samsung and LG, look for the advertised passthrough capabilities. Many premium bars from both brands support 4K HDR passthrough, but always double-check the manual for the max resolution and supported HDR formats.

Samsung vs LG: what to expect

Both Samsung and LG offer soundbars with eARC and HDMI inputs on their premium tiers. The key difference often comes down to port count. Many Samsung bars include two HDMI inputs, while LG models commonly feature one input plus the eARC port. This varies by model and price tier, so always check the official spec sheet.

Samsung also tends to include more advanced HDMI features on its higher-end models, such as full HDMI 2.1 support for gaming. LG, on the other hand, focuses on integration with its own TVs, including the Wow Orchestra feature that makes TV speakers work along with the soundbar. If you own an LG TV, that integration can be a strong reason to stay in the same ecosystem.

For specific models, see the best Samsung soundbars and best LG soundbars guides. If you want a bar that plays well with your TV brand, consider the extra audio modes those bars offer, but port layout still dictates how you physically connect everything.

Other connections: wireless and optical

Beyond HDMI, soundbars often include Bluetooth for streaming from your phone. Bluetooth Classic is the radio used for audio streaming, as described by the Bluetooth SIG. If your TV lacks ARC or eARC, an optical connection can carry Dolby Digital, but it cannot handle the high-bitrate formats that eARC supports.

Wireless features like Wi-Fi are also common, but they don't replace the physical HDMI connection for TV audio. Always prioritize HDMI for the main hookup and treat wireless as an extra convenience. For music streaming, you may also want to check if the soundbar supports AirPlay 2 or Chromecast, which are additional options.

Some soundbars also offer a USB port for firmware updates or playing media files, but that is rarely essential. The key takeaway is to ensure the essential connections are present: at least one HDMI with eARC, and ideally an extra HDMI input if you need it.

Setup tips for Samsung and LG soundbars

Once you have your soundbar, proper setup can make a big difference. Use the HDMI cable that comes with the soundbar or a certified one that supports eARC. Older cables may not have the bandwidth for eARC, leading to intermittent audio drops. If you have a 4K or 8K TV, make sure the cable is rated for that speed.

When connecting a soundbar with eARC, connect the TV's eARC HDMI port (usually labeled) to the soundbar's eARC port. Then set the TV's audio output to 'Pass through' or 'Bitstream' to allow the signal to reach the soundbar without processing. This allows the soundbar to decode the format.

If you experience lip-sync issues, most soundbars have audio delay adjustments. Finally, update the soundbar firmware regularly because manufacturers often add new features or improve eARC stability through updates.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Do Samsung and LG soundbars support eARC?

Most mid-range and premium models from both brands include eARC, but check the spec sheet for the specific model. Some budget bars only have ARC, which still works for basic Dolby Digital but cannot carry the full lossless audio formats.

How many HDMI ports do Samsung and LG soundbars have?

It varies. Samsung often includes two HDMI inputs on soundbars with a separate subwoofer, while LG tends to use one input on many models. Always verify the port list before buying, as this can change even within the same product line.

Can I connect a 4K player to a soundbar?

Yes, if the soundbar has an HDMI input and supports 4K passthrough. Check the supported resolutions and HDR formats in the manual. Some bars only pass 1080p, which will limit your picture quality.

Is optical enough if my TV doesn't have eARC?

Optical carries compressed 5.1 audio, which is fine for basic Dolby Digital, but it cannot handle Dolby Atmos with height channels. If your TV lacks eARC, you will likely miss out on the full home theater experience with a premium soundbar.

Does Bluetooth matter for a soundbar?

Bluetooth is useful for quick music streaming from your phone, but it is not the primary connection for TV audio. Its quality depends on the codec, as we explain in Bluetooth versions. HDMI remains the best way to connect your TV.

What is the difference between ARC and eARC for soundbars?

ARC carries compressed 5.1 audio, while eARC supports high-bitrate formats including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X in their lossless forms. eARC also has higher bandwidth and better lip-sync syncing.