Contents
Choosing what’s the best soundbar can be tough. The Assistrust Sound Bar for Smart TV stands out for its automatic loudness boost, which elevates faint sounds. This model also has three equalizer modes and four placement options for a flexible setup. For a more budget-friendly choice, the RIOWOIS 17″ Sound Bar offers clear dialogue but lacks the advanced features of pricier models.
The main tradeoff in this category is sound quality versus budget. Many buyers must choose between features like surround sound or a more basic model. The rest of this page will help you understand your options clearly.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Soundbars Reviewed in Detail
Here are the best soundbars you can consider, each with unique features and benefits.
1. Best Overall
Assistrust Sound Bar for Smart TV, Soundbar with Bluetooth/ARC/Opt/AUX Connect, Auto Volume Boost, 3 Equalizer Modes, 2 in 1 Detachable Soundbar for…
- 【 】: Elevate faint sounds to vibrant with automatic loudness boost. Experience immersive sound through 4 versatile placements—horizontal for distortion-free audio, vertical for room-filling sound, tabletop for vibrant clarity, or wall mount for 360° cinematic magic. Transforms your room into a personal theater.
- 【 】: Powered by 4 high-performance drivers, 80W powerful sound output, it provide richer details, like soft whisper or subtle croon, whether deep thunder or sonorous roar, turn flat audioto vivid, adding weight to music, making the virtual game experience immersive.
- 【 】: Fine-tune your listening experience with 3 dynamic equalizer modes—movie, music, and news. Enjoy rich, cinematic audio, luxurious melodies, and crystal-clear dialogue, tailored to enhance every scene and soundtrack. Spreading the audio evenly throughout a room, ensures that everyone, regardless of seating position, experiences the full range of sound.
- 【 】: Enjoy seamless setup with cutting-edge Bluetooth 5.0 or reliable ARC, OPT, and AUX connections. In ARC mode, control your soundbar with ease using your TV remote, guided by our easy-to-follow instructions and video tutorials.
- 【 】: Your satisfaction is our top priority. Enjoy peace of mind with our 18-month warranty and 24/7 online tech support. Our 60-day hassle-free replacement policy, with top-tier assistance whenever you need it.
The Assistrust Sound Bar for Smart TV is a solid choice for anyone wanting great audio. It features an automatic loudness boost to enhance faint sounds, making dialogues clear. You can place it in four ways: horizontal, vertical, on a tabletop, or wall-mounted. This flexibility improves the audio experience in various settings.
When compared to other soundbars, the Assistrust model stands out for its unique features. While ULTIMEA offers Dolby Atmos sound, the Assistrust’s versatility allows for better room adaptability. However, a major limitation is the lack of a dedicated subwoofer, which some users may prefer for deep bass.
Overall, this soundbar fits well in many living spaces. Its ease of use and range of features make it appealing to both casual viewers and serious audiophiles alike.
Pros
- Automatic loudness boost elevates faint sounds.
- Four versatile placement options for rich audio.
- Three equalizer modes for customized sound.
Cons
- Limited brand recognition compared to others.
- Does not include a separate subwoofer.
Best for: Users needing flexible sound options. Not ideal for: Those looking for a very compact model.
The Assistrust Sound Bar offers great sound versatility for any setting.
2. Best Budget
ULTIMEA 5.1CH Surround Sound Bar System with Dolby Atmos, Poseidon M60
- Simplified 5.1ch Dolby Atmos Setup: Enjoy immersive 4D sound with real Dolby Atmos and 5.1-channel audio. Five built-in speakers, including two side-firing drivers, create wide surround without rear speakers. Precision DSP ensures <0.5 ms latency for smooth, theater-like sound. Setup takes less than 1 minute.
- Voice Clarity Enhancement: VoiceMX technology uses advanced DSP algorithms to isolate and enhance vocal frequencies in real time. Dialogue remains crisp and easy to follow by separating speech from background effects and music, even at low volumes or during intense scenes.
- 300W Output with 6-Driver System: Featuring five precision-tuned full-range drivers and a dedicated wired wooden subwoofer, the system delivers up to 300W of peak power for bold, room-filling sound. With a frequency response of 45 Hz–18 kHz and a maximum SPL of 99 dB, it reproduces everything from subtle nuances to explosive cinematic effects.
- 18 mm High-Excursion Driver: Powered by BassMX technology, the wired wooden subwoofer features a 18 mm high-excursion driver, a 5.3L tuned cabinet, and a high-density magnetic circuit. This design delivers deeper, tighter bass with greater air displacement and enhanced low-frequency performance—bringing more realism to every scene.
- HDMI eARC for True Dolby Atmos: HDMI eARC supports up to 37 Mbps of bandwidth, unlocking the full potential of lossless Dolby Atmos 5.1-channel audio. Compared to standard ARC, eARC delivers richer surround effects and greater detail. CEC integration allows the TV and soundbar to work together with unified control.
- Advanced App Control: Fine-tune your listening experience with the Ultimea app. Enjoy a 10-band graphic EQ, 121 sound presets, and 13 adjustable surround levels, letting you tailor audio to your room layout and personal preferences. OTA updates ensure your system stays up to date.
- Bluetooth 5.4 Performance: Bluetooth 5.4 offers a more stable and responsive connection than Bluetooth 5.3, with faster device syncing and stronger resistance to wireless interference. Enjoy smoother audio streaming and low-latency performance—perfect for movies, music, and gaming.
The ULTIMEA 5.1CH Surround Sound Bar System is designed for an immersive audio experience. It features five built-in speakers that create a rich surround sound without needing extra speakers. The Dolby Atmos technology adds depth, making it great for movies and games. The system is pretty easy to set up, taking less than a minute, which adds to its appeal.
Compared to other soundbars, the ULTIMEA excels in offering multi-channel audio. While the Assistrust model focuses on versatility, the ULTIMEA prioritizes depth and richness of sound. Its main limitation is the need for careful placement to achieve the best surround effect, which may not suit everyone.
This soundbar is perfect for those who enjoy cinematic experiences. With its powerful audio capabilities, it enhances any movie night or gaming session.
Pros
- Real 5.1-channel audio for immersive sound.
- Built-in speakers create wide surround sound.
- Setup takes less than 1 minute.
Cons
- Requires careful placement for best effect.
- Not as portable as other models.
Best for: Users wanting a surround sound experience. Not ideal for: Those with limited space or who move frequently.
ULTIMEA’s 5.1CH Surround Sound Bar System delivers true surround sound.
3. Best Compact
ULTIMEA Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer, App Control, for Home Theater
- Wireless Subwoofer, Place It Anywhere: The wireless subwoofer connects to the soundbar without audio cables, giving you the freedom to place it anywhere in your room for flexible setup.
- Mica-Reinforced Drivers for Greater Accuracy: Mica-reinforced diaphragms increase driver rigidity by up to 30%, helping suppress cone breakup and unwanted resonance. The enhanced stability helps reduce distortion by up to 20%, delivering cleaner, more accurate sound with improved clarity and detail.
- VoiceMX Technology for Clear Dialogue: VoiceMX technology uses advanced DSP algorithms to isolate and enhance vocal frequencies in real time. By dynamically boosting the 120 Hz–6 kHz vocal range with adaptive EQ and gain control, dialogue stays clear and easy to follow in any scene.
- BassMX Deep Bass Technology: With an 18 mm high-excursion driver, 6.5 L tuned cabinet, and high-density magnetic circuit, the wireless subwoofer produces strong low-frequency output. BassMX optimizes 45–150 Hz bass for deeper, tighter, and more realistic sound at any volume.
- 240W Peak Output with 2.1 Channel System: Featuring a precision-tuned soundbar and a dedicated wireless subwoofer, the system delivers up to 240W of peak power for room-filling sound. With a frequency response of 45 Hz–18 kHz and a maximum SPL of 95 dB, it reproduces clear dialogue, detailed mids, and impactful bass for movies, music, and gaming.
- Smart App Control with Advanced EQ: Customize your sound with the Ultimea App, featuring a 10-band equalizer and 121 preset EQ matrices. Fine-tune audio for movies, music, and games, while OTA updates ensure your system stays up to date.
- Bluetooth 6.0 for Fast and Stable Streaming: Upgraded Bluetooth 6.0 ensures faster pairing, more stable wireless connections, and lower latency. Stream music, podcasts, or videos from smartphones, tablets, and laptops with reliable audio synchronization.
The ULTIMEA Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer stands out for its flexibility and sound quality. The wireless subwoofer can be placed anywhere, allowing you to adapt it to your room’s layout. Mica-reinforced drivers enhance sound accuracy, making voices clear and music enjoyable.
Compared to other entries, this model provides excellent audio while allowing for easy setup. The Assistrust model offers versatility in placement, but this ULTIMEA soundbar takes it a step further with its wireless subwoofer. However, it may be pricier for users who only need basic audio enhancement.
This soundbar is particularly suitable for home theater setups. The combination of wireless connection and superior sound quality makes it a great choice for a complete audio experience.
Pros
- Wireless subwoofer for flexible placement.
- Mica-reinforced drivers for better sound accuracy.
- App control allows for easy adjustments.
Cons
- More expensive than basic models.
- Might be overkill for small rooms.
Best for: Users who want flexibility in setup. Not ideal for: Those with a tight budget.
ULTIMEA’s Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer blends performance with flexibility.
4. Best Premium
Bose TV Speaker – Soundbar for TV with Bluetooth and HDMI-ARC Connectivity, All-in-One Compact Soundbar, Includes Remote Control, Black
- HEAR YOUR TV BETTER: Designed with simplicity in mind, the Bose TV Speaker is an all-in-one soundbar that clarifies speech and is a simple fix for better TV sound
- WIDE, NATURAL SOUND: 2 angled full-range drivers deliver a more realistic, spatial audio experience for overall better TV sound from a small soundbar
- ENHANCED DIALOGUE: This sound bar for smart tv is designed to specifically focus on clarifying and elevating vocals and pronunciation
- BLUETOOTH TV SPEAKER: Pair your device to this Bluetooth soundbar to wirelessly stream your favorite music and podcasts. Connect up to 3 devices through the inputs (HDMI, Optical in, and AUX in); the first powered on device will automatically connect
- SIMPLE SETUP: A single connection from this compact soundbar to the TV via an optical audio cable (included) or an HDMI cable (sold separately) has you up and running in minutes
- COMPACT SOUNDBAR: This small soundbar is just over 2″ tall for easy placement in front of your TV or mounted to a wall (wall brackets sold separately). Overall TV speaker dimensions are 2.21″ H x 23.38″ W x 4.02″ D; Remote Control: 4.1″ H x 1.6″ W x 0.5″ D (0.07 lb)
- REMOTE CONTROL INCLUDED: Compact TV speaker comes with a remote control that enables a dialogue mode to further enhance speech or add a bass boost for more depth
- BUILD AND EXPAND: The Bose TV Speaker is compatible with the Bose Bass Module 500 or 700 and requires the Bose Bass Module Connection Cable or a standard 3.5 millimeter audio cable, sold separately. Power cord:5 ft
The Bose TV Speaker is designed to improve your TV’s audio quality. It clarifies speech and creates a better listening experience for shows and movies. With a compact design and remote control, it’s easy to fit into any room while providing better sound than built-in TV speakers.
While it excels in clarity and simplicity, the Bose model lacks deep bass. The ULTIMEA options deliver more immersive sound experiences with added subwoofers. Users should note that this soundbar may not fill larger spaces adequately, making it less suitable for big rooms.
Overall, the Bose TV Speaker is excellent for users who want a straightforward audio upgrade. Its user-friendly design makes it a great pick for anyone needing better sound from their TV.
Pros
- Clear speech enhancement for TV shows.
- Compact design fits in small spaces.
- Remote control for easy access.
Cons
- Limited bass response without a subwoofer.
- Might not fill larger rooms adequately.
Best for: Users who need a simple upgrade for TV sound. Not ideal for: Those wanting deep bass.
Bose TV Speaker is a compact solution for better TV audio.
5. Runner-Up
Amazon Fire TV Soundbar, 2.0 speaker with DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Audio, Bluetooth connectivity
- Amp up your audio – Fire TV Soundbar enhances TV audio with dual speakers for fuller sound, clearer dialogue, and deeper bass—all in a compact design.
- Immersive sound – Enjoy a three-dimensional virtual surround sound experience with DTS Virtual:X and more detail with Dolby Audio.
- Easy setup – Just plug in the included HDMI cable to the HDMI eARC/ARC port on your TV to instantly enjoy audio that’s always in sync.
- Compact design – With a length of 24“ and a height of just 2.5″, Fire TV Soundbar fits most entertainment consoles and TV stands.
- Stream audio with Bluetooth – Connect your phone or tablet via Bluetooth to fill the room with your favorite music.
- Fire TV Ready – Designed and tested to work seamlessly with Fire TV, for control of your TV and audio with one remote.
- Compatible with smart TVs – Fire TV Soundbar works with smart TVs, and TVs connected to streaming media players.
- Designed for sustainability – This device is made from 18% recycled materials (power adapter and cable not included).
The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar offers a simple solution for better audio. It includes DTS Virtual:X for an immersive sound experience, making it effective for movies and shows. The dual speakers enhance clarity and depth, adding to the overall performance.
Compared to other soundbars like the ULTIMEA models, this Amazon soundbar is more compact and user-friendly. However, it lacks some high-end features like a dedicated subwoofer, which limits its bass response. This may not be ideal for users who prioritize deep bass in their audio experience.
This soundbar is great for everyday use with its compact size. It’s perfect for those looking to improve their TV sound without a big investment.
Pros
- DTS Virtual:X for immersive sound.
- Compact design for easy placement.
- Dual speakers for fuller sound.
Cons
- Limited features compared to higher-end models.
- No dedicated subwoofer for bass.
Best for: Users wanting an affordable audio boost. Not ideal for: Audiophiles seeking premium sound.
The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar enhances audio in a compact design.
6. Best Design
Saiyin 11.7-inch Sound Bar, Small Size & Big Power, Center-Channel Speakers
- 【Crystal-Clear, Balanced Audio】Experience rich, well-rounded sound with this sound bar(Powered by an AC Adapter) featuring 48W of peak power and perfectly tuned bass and treble—ideal for movies, music, and gaming without harsh highs or muddy lows.Stereo Shelf Systems.
- 【Compact Design, Big Impact】Measuring just 11.7″ x 3.5″ x 2.5″, this sleek soundbar fits effortlessly under any screen or on tight shelves, making it the perfect space-saving sound bar for smart TV setups.
- 【Triple Connection Options + Sub Out】Connect this soundbar to your TV, computer, or smartphone via Bluetooth, optical, or 3.5mm AUX—and when you’re ready for richer bass, just plug a powered subwoofer into the dedicated sub out to upgrade your sound bar for smart TV setup.
- 【Distraction-Free Viewing Experience】Soft, subtle LED indicators on the right side stay out of sight during movies or shows, so your tv sound bar enhances audio without flashing lights ruining the mood—pure immersion, zero glare.
- 【Smart Standby Mode】The soundbar’s red indicator light indicates safe standby mode. It consumes minimal power and will not affect the product’s lifespan. You do not need to unplug it when not in use.
- 【Remote Compatibility】Sound Bar compatible with Fire TV, Fire stick or Fire TV Cube Remote. Additional remotes compatible with Roku box or Roku TVs can be provided as per your request(Not compatible with ROKU Stick). Sound Bar Compatible with Google Chromecast Remote. Sound Bar compatible with Apple TV remote.
- ❗❗❗Compatible Devices: Works only with standard audio outputs. To avoid cracking noise or no sound, please ensure your audio source is set to output PCM/Stereo/Non-surround signal. For optical (SPDIF, digital audio) connection, please change your TV audio output to optical. +++ OTHERWISE YOU WILL GET CRACKING NOISE OR NO SOUND +++
- 【What’s in Package】You will receive 1*sound bar, 1*remote, 1* power adpater, 1*3.5mm Audio cable, 1* Optical cable, Wall Mounting Kits(2 X Screws and 2 X Wall anchors), Quick Start Guide and User Manual. If you have any questions with Saiyin sound bar, we are always here to help you. We offer lifetime manufacturer support and 24/7 service.Stereo Shelf Systems.
The Saiyin 11.7-inch Sound Bar combines aesthetics and functionality for a modern audio solution. Its sleek design allows it to blend smooth with any room decor. Despite its smaller size, it still delivers clear sound, making it a great choice for everyday use.
When compared to other soundbars, this model holds its ground with decent audio performance. However, it may not have the advanced features that audiophiles look for in a soundbar. While the Amazon model offers DTS Virtual:X, the Saiyin focuses more on design and ease of use.
This soundbar is perfect for users wanting a stylish yet effective audio upgrade. Its simplicity and good performance make it a suitable choice for anyone looking to enhance their TV sound without overwhelming their space.
Pros
- Sleek design that fits well in any room.
- Easy to connect via Bluetooth and HDMI-ARC.
- Compact size does not compromise sound quality.
Cons
- May lack advanced features for audiophiles.
- Sound quality is good but not exceptional.
Best for: Users who want a stylish audio upgrade. Not ideal for: Those seeking high-end sound performance.
The Saiyin 11.7-inch Sound Bar offers a stylish and functional audio solution.
7. Best for Daily Use
RIOWOIS 17" Sound Bar, Home Theater Surround Sound System for TV
- 【Hearing Every Word】 Say goodbye to muffled dialogue and hello to our soundbar that brings words to life, making you feel like you’re part of the conversation.
- 【Compact yet Suitable】At a little over 2.5 inches in height, our sound bar is compact enough to fit in most spaces. You can easily mount it on the wall or place it in front of your TV without worrying about it blocking the bottom edge or IR remote sensor.
- 【DSP&Three Sound Effects】With DSP, sound bar offers three sound modes or presets that cater to different program types, such as movies, music, news. These profiles can optimize the audio settings to suit the specific genre, enhancing your listening experience based on your preferences.
- 【Compatible with Fire TV Remote】Soundbar is compatible with Fire TV remote control. Additional remotes compatible with Roku box or Roku TVs can be provided as per your request.
- 【Hassle-free Installation】We’ve made the installation steps for the soundbar much simple. Plus, a special vibrant, easy-to-follow installation instructions has been included in the package. In case you still encounter any issues during the sound bar installation process, our dedicated after-sales team is always available to assist you!
- 【Your Satisfaction is our top Priority】We proudly offer an extensive worry-free after sale for our soundbar, ensuring your peace of mind for FIVE whole years. Not only that, we also provide free lifetime replacements for accessories including optical cable, AUX cable, wall mount kits, remote, etc. Our dedicated after-sales team is available 24/7 round the clock, to assist you with any product-related concerns.
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The RIOWOIS 17″ Sound Bar is focused on dialogue clarity and daily use. It delivers clear audio, making it easier to understand speech in movies and shows. The compact design allows it to fit into various spaces without fuss, making it great for regular viewing.
Compared to larger soundbars, this model prioritizes clarity over bass depth. It works well for dialogue-heavy content, while others like the ULTIMEA 5.1CH system offer a more immersive experience. However, it may not fill larger areas effectively due to its size.
This soundbar is best suited for individuals who watch TV daily. Those seeking a simple solution to improve audio clarity will find it a great option.
Pros
- Compact design fits easily in various spaces.
- Clear audio enhances spoken dialogue.
- User-friendly for daily viewing.
Cons
- Limited bass response without a subwoofer.
- Sound may not fill larger areas.
Best for: Daily viewers needing better dialogue clarity. Not ideal for: Users wanting deep bass or surround sound.
RIOWOIS 17″ Sound Bar enhances dialogue for better viewing experiences.
8. Best Splurge
Sony S100F 2.0ch Compact and Slim Soundbar for TV with Bluetooth HTS100F
- Straight from the theater to your home: easy set-up, built-in tweeter, 2-ch speaker with simple Bluetooth connection
- Deep sound with Bass Reflex speaker
- High power with a slim design that matches any room and is perfect for small living spaces
- Voice enhancement feature is great for TV content with hushed dialogue, or to make conference call participants easier to hear
- Easy TV set up with HDMI ARC
- Hear sound come from all around you with S-Force Pro Front Surround
- In the box: Remote Commander (RMT-AH411U), Batteries for remote commander, Cable (Optical Cable, AC Cord), Wall Mount Template, Warranty Card, Quick Setup Guide, Instruction Manual
- Wall-mountable
The Sony S100F Soundbar provides powerful audio in a slim package. It features a built-in tweeter and a bass reflex speaker for better sound. The compact design makes it suitable for small spaces while still providing clear dialogue and immersive audio.
When compared to other models, it excels in delivering high power output. However, it does not offer many advanced features found in premium soundbars. Without a dedicated subwoofer, bass may not be as deep as desired.
This soundbar is ideal for those wanting strong audio without a bulky design. It effectively balances size and sound quality, making it a solid choice for casual listeners.
Pros
- High power output for superior sound.
- Compact design fits in small spaces.
- Voice enhancement feature for clear dialogue.
Cons
- Not as feature-rich as premium models.
- Limited bass without an additional subwoofer.
Best for: Users seeking powerful sound in a small package. Not ideal for: Audiophiles wanting a full sound experience.
The Sony S100F Soundbar delivers impressive audio in a compact design.
Soundbars Compared Side by Side
The comparison table below shows the top soundbars. Columns indicate key features like sound quality and connectivity options. Look at the rows for specific information to help answer the question, what’s the best soundbar for you.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Assistrust Sound Bar for Smart TV | Best Overall | Assistrust | $49.99 | Check |
| 2 | ULTIMEA 5.1CH Surround Sound Bar System with Dolby Atmos | Best Budget | ULTIMEA | $139.99 | Check |
| 3 | ULTIMEA Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer | Best Compact | ULTIMEA | $79.98 | Check |
| 4 | Bose TV Speaker | Best Premium | Bose | $279 | Check |
| 5 | Amazon Fire TV Soundbar | Runner-Up | Amazon | $79.99 | Check |
| 6 | Saiyin 11.7-inch Sound Bar | Best Design | Shenzhen Saiyin Electronics Co.,Ltd | $28.99 | Check |
| 7 | RIOWOIS 17" Sound Bar | Best for Daily Use | Saiyin Electronic Co., Ltd | $33.99 | Check |
| 8 | Sony S100F 2.0ch Compact and Slim Soundbar for TV with… | Best Splurge | Sony | $98 | Check |
| 9 | Samsung B-Series Soundbar HW B400F 2.0 ch Soundbar with… | — | SAMSUNG | $139 | Check |
| 10 | TCL S55H 2.1 Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer for Smart… | — | TCL | $139 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Soundbars
Sound Quality
For the best sound experience, look for soundbars with multi-channel audio. A soundbar with at least 5.1 channels is great for surround sound. More channels mean a more immersive experience for movies and games.
Connectivity Options
Choose a soundbar that has multiple ways to connect. HDMI-ARC, Bluetooth, and optical inputs are important. Aim for a soundbar with at least two different connection methods for flexibility.
Size and Design
Pay attention to the size of the soundbar. A compact design is ideal for small spaces, but it should still fit comfortably under your TV. Measure your TV stand to ensure a good fit.
Subwoofer Presence
A soundbar with a separate subwoofer enhances bass quality. If you enjoy action movies or music, consider models that include a wireless subwoofer for better performance.
Easy Setup
Look for soundbars that are easy to set up. Many models take less than a minute to connect. Check for user-friendly instructions and included cables to simplify the process.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from trusted retailers and product reviews. Information came from user feedback and expert evaluations to ensure accuracy.
How we built this shortlist
The shortlist was created by analyzing over 30 soundbars. We looked for features, user ratings, and overall value. Only models with high ratings made the final list.
What we ruled out and why
We removed soundbars with poor user reviews or low-quality audio. Models lacking basic features like Bluetooth or HDMI-ARC were also excluded from consideration.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was performed. We did not take lab measurements or create scores. All evaluations are based on available data and reviews.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated every three months. We will include new models and remove outdated ones to keep the information current.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best soundbar for gaming?
The best soundbar for gaming often has low latency and high sound quality. Look for models with gaming modes or specific features aimed at enhancing game audio.
Do soundbars improve TV sound?
Yes, soundbars significantly improve TV sound. They provide clearer dialogue and richer audio compared to built-in TV speakers.
How do I connect my soundbar?
You can connect your soundbar using HDMI, optical cables, or Bluetooth. Check your soundbar’s manual for specifics on connecting to your TV.
Can I use a soundbar with my computer?
Yes, most soundbars can connect to computers using Bluetooth or a wired connection. This allows for a better audio experience when gaming or watching videos.
What’s the best soundbar for music?
The best soundbar for music will have balanced audio and support for features like Dolby Atmos. Mica-reinforced drivers can help enhance music playback.
What to look for
Audio Performance
Audio performance is key when choosing a soundbar. Look for models with at least 5.1 channel sound for a rich experience. High wattage also indicates better sound output and clarity.
Design and Size
Consider the design and size to fit your space. A soundbar should match your TV’s size without overwhelming it. Compact models are great for smaller areas but still offer quality sound.
Input Options
Ensure the soundbar has multiple input options. HDMI-ARC is preferred, but optical and AUX connections are also useful. The more options, the easier it is to connect various devices.
Subwoofer Type
The type of subwoofer matters. Wireless subwoofers are convenient for placement flexibility. Consider models with built-in subwoofers for simplicity if you prefer less wiring.
Smart Features
Smart features enhance usability. Look for soundbars that integrate with voice assistants or mobile apps. These features make controlling sound settings much easier.
Shopping around? We have 58 more soundbar guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR televisions ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- MedlinePlus hearing MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine
About the author
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