While most modern TVs do have impressive speakers built-in these days, nothing beats the added bass, or crisp clear treble of an external soundbar to immerse you into your show or game like never before.

It can be a tough decision to pick the right soundbar. They all boast different features; some have voice assistants, and others have Bluetooth.

Here are the best soundbars for your home media center today.

Premium pick

1. JBL Bar 9.1

8.80 / 10
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The JBL Bar 9.1 is one of the most impressive soundbars to have ever hit the market. Dolby Atmos, 9.1 surround sound, and a completely wireless subwoofer work together to create a sound that you usually can only experience on the big screen. Even the thunderous bass we've all come to know and love from theaters can now be enjoyed from the comfort of your home.

The two rear speakers add another level of immersion, producing background noise that takes the audio experience beyond that of an ordinary sound bar. It produces high-quality surround sound as filmmakers intended their movies to be heard.

If you're not a fan of wires, the JBL Bar 9.1's two rear speakers and subwoofer are all wireless, with the rear speakers able to hold around 10 hours of life before needing to be recharged. This gives you a truly wireless experience, another great reason why the JBL Bar 9.1 is top of the list when it comes to soundbars for your home media setup.

Key Features
  • Dolby Atmos
  • 4K passthrough with Dolby Vision
  • 9.1 surround sound
  • DTS: X decoding
Specifications
  • Brand: JBL
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, optical
  • Integrations: Google Chromecast, Apple AirPlay 2
  • Ports: 2x HDMI, USB, Digital Optical Audio, Ethernet
  • Audio Format: Dolby Atmos
  • Power: 820W
  • Speaker Arrangement: 5.1.4
Pros
  • Incredible bass
  • Can get extremely loud
  • Completely wireless sub
Cons
  • Lacks decent EQ controls
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JBL Bar 9.1
Editors choice

2. Samsung Q800A

9.00 / 10
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Samsung is well known for its high-quality electronics, from incredible 4K TVs to its flagship phones that are packed full of the latest technology and features. Their speakers are no different; always built to the highest quality possible and rocking some of the latest features to ensure you don't miss a beat.

The Samsung HW-Q800A is the perfect blend of compact speakers and booming sound, packed with incredible features, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support. This soundbar offers an incredible, immersive home theater sound that is hard to rival.

For those that want a more immersive audio experience, the Samsung HW-Q800A's 3.1.2 channel sound can be upgraded with a set of additional wireless rear speakers, taking the Samsung HW-Q800A from an already impressive home theater to a truly immersive experience that will have you glued to your TV for hours.

Key Features
  • Dolby Atmos
  • Alexa built-in
  • Automatically calibrated sound
  • Two up-firing channels
Specifications
  • Brand: Samsung
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, HDMI eARC, Wi-Fi
  • Integrations: Alexa, AirPlay 2
  • Ports: HDMI eARC
  • Audio Format: Dolby Atmos
  • Power: 360W
  • Speaker Arrangement: 3.1.2
Pros
  • Rich detailed sound
  • Voice commands
  • Impressive bass
  • Can be upgraded with rear speakers
Cons
  • Many features require a Samsung TV
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Samsung Q800A
Best value

3. VIZIO SB2020n-J6

8.80 / 10
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If you're looking for a soundbar that's not only affordable but comes packed full of features, the VIZIO SB2020n-J6 is a great choice. This compact 20-inch device offers Bluetooth connectivity, features voice assistant support, and packs a punch in terms of audio quality. This means you can fill your room, bedroom, or even your patio with your favorite music since the Bluetooth functionality makes it portable.

With two full-range speakers and 2.0 channel sound, you won't be disappointed with what this small device can offer. It connects seamlessly to your existing TV setup and is perfect for watching movies, gaming, and listening to music. However, with a maximum sound of 91dB, you may prefer to look for a beefier soundbar if you like to crank up the volume.

Key Features
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Full-range speakers
  • DTS Virtual:X
  • Remote control
Specifications
  • Brand: VIZIO
  • Audio Format: DTS Virtual:X
  • Speaker Arrangement: 2.0
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth
  • Ports: USB, Optical
Pros
  • Ultra-compact design
  • Easy to setup
  • Great value for money
Cons
  • Not as loud as other soundbars
Buy This Product
VIZIO SB2020n-J6

The LG SP8YA soundbar strikes a great balance between price and quality, and while it is much more affordable than other mid-range soundbars, that doesn't mean it lacks the same high-quality immersive sound you are looking for. In fact, quite the opposite, the LG SP8YA sounds incredible.

For versatility, the LG SP8YA is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant. It also features tough buttons, a scrolling LED display and multiple ports at the rear. This includes an HDMI 2.1 port with Dolby Vision and HDR10 passthrough. The wireless sub boasts an 18cm bass driver that must be connected to a power cable, despite it offering a wireless signal.

But, among the many features available, the real crown of the LG SP8YA goes to its audio quality. There are different sound modes you can switch between, notably, the Music mode is worth exploring to widen the soundstage and enhance bass notes. It might have less power than some other soundbars, but it certainly doesn't sacrifice audio quality.

Key Features
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
  • Meridian audio technology
  • 4K passthrough
Specifications
  • Brand: LG
  • Connectivity: HDMI, Bluetooth
  • Integrations: Alexa, Apple Airplay 2
  • Audio Format: Dolby Atmos
  • Power: 440W
  • Speaker Arrangement: 3.1.2
Pros
  • Impressive sound quality
  • Tons of features
  • Immersive room filling sound
Cons
  • Known to cause Wi-Fi interference
  • Sub is somewhat weak
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The Sony HT-A5000 soundbar is perfect for most home entertainment setups. This device comes with an HDMI input, HDMI ARC, and 8K passthrough. And, if that wasn't enough, it supports Dolby Vision and 4K resolutions at 120Hz, ensuring your movies can be enjoyed as they were designed to be.

Setup is simple; moving away from the app-focused design that some modern soundbars sway towards, you can configure the Sony HT-A5000 all through your TV. Once connected, you can wirelessly connect via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Apple AirPlay 2, and plenty more. When you're devices are connected, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy high-quality audio and music at your leisure.

Keeping the Sony HT-A5000 on its default sound mode, you'll get crisp audio and balanced stereo sound. This is great for watching TV or listening to podcasts and audiobooks. Switch on Sound Field mode and be prepared to be blown away by what it delivers; 3D audio at its best, leveraging Sony's Vertical Surround Engine, expanding the soundstage to enjoy immersive movies like you were at the theatre.

Key Features
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS:X with Vertical Surround Engine
  • 8K and 4K/120 passthrough
  • Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
Specifications
  • Brand: Sony
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, HDMI, USB
  • Integrations: Alexa, Google Assistant
  • Ports: Optical-audio input, USB typeA, File System
  • Audio Format: Dolby Digital, Dolby Atmos, DTS, AAC, SBC, LDAC, MP3
  • Power: 100W
  • Subwoofer Output: Built-in
  • Speaker Arrangement: 5.1
Pros
  • 8K-ready
  • Great for movies
  • Easy to set up
Cons
  • No EQ
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Sony HT-A5000

This elegant soundbar is a stylish addition to any home theater. It boasts a slim design with an LED indicator to let you know what function you're using. There's one HDMI port and an optical input as well as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. In addition, you have the option to add an Adaptiq microphone which is used for automatic room correction.

The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 offers wide audio but is ultimately better for movies than it is for music. The sound clearly resonates around the room, but the bass is lacking, which might be a dealbreaker for some audiophiles. However, it is able to fill a large room with sound, at around 95dB at maximum volume. This makes it great for parties if you're not too fussed about the clarity of your music.

Leveraging Alexa or Google Assistant, it's simple to adjust the volume, change tracks, or control other smart devices in your home. It's easy to set up, but it does come at a cost, one which you could quite easily get a better soundbar at. However, if you're a fan of Bose and don't want to move to another brand, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 is easily expandable with more speakers.

Key Features
  • Bose Voice4Video technology
  • Single connection to any TV
  • Wireless music streaming
Specifications
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2
  • Ports: x1 Optical, HDMI, eARC, x1 USB, x1 Ethernet
  • Audio Format: Dolby Atmos
  • Speaker Arrangement: 5.0.2
  • Dimensions: 19.3 x 17.3 x 15.6 inches
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Support for Dolby Atmos
  • Decent sound quality
Cons
  • Bass is lacking
  • Better for movies than music
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Bose Smart Soundbar 900

The Sonos Beam Gen 2 has had a much-needed upgrade. It's easy to set up, works well with other Sonos speakers, and supports multiple voice assistants. Using the Sonos S2 app, you'll have access to TruePlay which analyzes your room and calibrates the audio to match your environment. However, this feature is only available for iOS devices.

With eARC compatibility, the Sonos Beam Gen 2 is able to handle a wide variety of audio formats. It also offers support for Dolby Atmos, making your movie experience much more immersive and enjoyable. The soundstage is undeniably wide, delivering powerful audio when watching movies or listening to music. However, when compared to the Sonos Arc, this soundbar feels like it misses a beat somewhere.

If you're searching for a mid-range soundbar that won't break the bank, the Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a great choice. It comes with upgradability and decent sound, but you might not be as blown away if you've previously experienced the Arc.

Key Features
  • 3D sound with Dolby Atmos
  • Controlled via Sonos app, remote, voice, or AirPlay 2
  • Trueplay tuning
Specifications
  • Brand: Sonos
Pros
  • Wide soundstage
  • Compact and stylish
  • Easy to expand
Cons
  • TruePlay only works with iOS devices
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Sonos Beam (Gen 2)

For smaller 4K TVs, the Samsung HW-T400 fits in nicely. It's compact, sports a brushed metal finish, and has side panel controls accessible on the right-hand side. Unfortunately, due to the low cost, Samsung has removed any HDMI ports from this soundbar. But you can still connect it to your TV using an optical digital cable, or use USB.

On the other hand, if you want to use the Samsung HW-T400 to listen to music, you can connect your devices using Bluetooth. You can use Samsung's Smart Things App to control the soundbar or use the supplied remote control.

Despite being more affordable, the Samsung HW-T400 still sounds pretty decent out of the box. The default sound mode is stereo, best for watching TV and listening to music. If you want to enjoy a more immersive movie experience, you can switch to surround mode to achieve wider sound coverage.

Key Features
  • Dolby Audio and DTS
  • Listen to music directly from USB
  • Includes remote control
Specifications
  • Brand: Samsung
Pros
  • Affordable
  • Great for 4K TVs
  • Ideal for smaller rooms
Cons
  • No HDMI
  • No multiroom support
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Samsung HW-T400

If you want a good balance between sound quality and value, the BESTISAN Soundbar might just be the answer. It's an affordable choice that comes with three types of audio presets, perfect for TV, music, and movies.

It's easy to set up the soundbar, as well as pairing with Bluetooth devices. There are also plenty of ports too, should you want to connect via HDMI or AUX. In terms of audio, the BESTISAN Soundbar carefully manages to offer decent low and high-frequency sounds, so you won't be feeling like you've missed out despite the lower price.

Considering its size, the BESTISAN Soundbar manages to pack four 3-inch full-range drivers and two 1-inch tweeters. It isn't going to fill a large room with sound, but it's perfect for smaller living areas and listening to music in your kitchen.

Key Features
  • 3-inch full range drivers and 1-inch tweeters
  • Bluetooth 5.0
  • Remote included
Specifications
  • Brand: BESTISAN
Pros
  • 105dB maximum sound
  • High-quality audio
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Not great for larger rooms
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BESTISAN Soundbar

The LG S90QY is one of the first soundbars that offers three height channels. It comes with a 5.1.3 setup, delivering a total sound output of 520W. Although there are no rear speakers included to create the ultimate immersive sound experience, it's still a great starting point, but it will cost you.

For TVs of up to 65 inches, the LG S90QY is a great choice for watching movies. It supports HDR10, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and 4K at 160Hz. This means you can sit back and feel like you're in the movie theater, or well and truly get stuck into some console games.

Despite being the later model to the SP9YA, the LG S90QY doesn't offer better stereo performance. It does, however, have a slightly better frequency response, and the AI room calibration makes it easy to match the sound to your environment.

Key Features
  • Up-firing center speaker
  • DTS:X
  • Controllable via AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Google, and Alexa
Specifications
  • Brand: LG
Pros
  • Powerful audio
  • Support for multiple audio formats
  • Stylish
Cons
  • Previous model has a more well-balanced sound profile
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FAQ

Q: How Do I Choose a Soundbar?

Choosing a soundbar depends on what kind of audio you want to achieve. If you simply want to enhance your TV's audio, a 2.1 channel soundbar will likely be sufficient.

However, a soundbar with a subwoofer and rear speakers can create better surround sound and a more immersive experience.

Q: How Many Watts Should a Soundbar Have?

Most soundbars have around 20 to 50 watts of power. However, if you add subwoofers and speakers, the power output can increase, sometimes above 500W.

Q: What Size Soundbar Do I Need for a 55-Inch TV?

For 55-inch TVs, your soundbar should be between 40 to 50 inches. However, if you have or purchase one that's slightly bigger or smaller, that's fine too.

To achieve the best sound quality, your soundbar should ideally cover the bottom length of the TV.