Most TVs suffer from poor audio quality, with small integrated speakers that just don't sound very good. But if weak bass and muddy dialogue are ruining your movie nights, you're not out of luck. A soundbar is an easy solution, and even budget models can be a big upgrade. The best soundbars deliver clearer voices, punchier low frequencies, and a more immersive experience.
My team of reviewers and I have spent more than a decade testing audio gear, and I've used that experience to pick the four best soundbars for a range of budgets and needs. My top recommendation is the Samsung HW-Q990F, a powerful Dolby Atmos system that includes rear speakers and a subwoofer for true surround sound. If you prefer a simpler setup, the Sonos Arc Ultra is the best stand-alone soundbar we've tested, delivering excellent performance without any extra components.
Below, you'll find all my picks for the best soundbars you can buy, from affordable upgrades to massive 11.1.4-channel systems that bring serious cinematic impact to your home theater.
Our top picks for the best soundbars
Best overall: Samsung HW-Q990F - See at Amazon
Best on a budget: Vizio 2.0 SV200M-08 - See at Walmart
Best midrange: Yamaha YAS-209 - See at Amazon
Best all-in-one: Sonos Arc Ultra - See at Amazon
Best overall
The Q990F is one of Samsung's flagship soundbar systems. It includes everything you need for a complete 11.1.4-channel Dolby Atmos surround-sound experience, with powerful audio and plenty of wireless music-streaming options.
What we like
What we don't like
The Samsung Q990F is the best soundbar for anyone who wants to elevate their home theater with cinematic audio. This powerhouse 11.1.4-channel system isn't the most compact option, but it fills your room with rich, multidirectional sound that pulls you right into the action.
One of the Q990F's standout features is its Dolby Atmos support, which creates a dome of sound, including effects that seem to come from above. To achieve this, the system utilizes four up-firing drivers that bounce sound off the ceiling, four side-firing drivers, dedicated rear speakers, a compact yet powerful subwoofer, and an array of front drivers for seamless coverage.
Together, these components provide an immersive soundfield that enhances everything from blockbuster movies and gaming sessions to music playback. Beyond sheer volume, the Q990F impresses with its balance and smooth channel transitions, providing a natural, lifelike quality to everything from sitcoms to jazz.
Compared to previous Q990 soundbars, this model introduces a revised subwoofer with a smaller build and a sealed rather than ported design. This makes it easier to place and reduces rattling. Despite its more compact footprint, the sub still packs a punch, delivering deep, controlled bass even at its default settings.
The Q990F also features a suite of modern conveniences, including hands-free Alexa voice control, support for high-res audio formats, and full compatibility with both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Connection options include an HDMI eARC port, an optical input, and two HDMI inputs with 4K HDR passthrough. Notably, those HDMI ports now handle 120Hz gaming signals, which weren't supported on the older Q990C.
Owners of certain Samsung TVs also get an added bonus: Q-Symphony. This feature is compatible with some of the best Samsung TVs, such as the S90F/S90H and S95H, enabling the Q990F to sync with a display's built-in speakers for an even broader soundstage. The soundbar still shines on its own, but this is an interesting feature to use if you have a compatible TV.
Read our Samsung HW-Q990F soundbar review.
Visit our guide to all the best Dolby Atmos soundbars.
Best on a budget
This simple two-channel soundbar is an affordable yet capable audio system. It delivers good stereo separation and Bluetooth support. However, though it's technically capable of Dolby Atmos playback, it lacks the ability to showcase that format properly.
What we like
What we don't like
The Vizio SV200M is a basic 2.0-channel soundbar that's available for just under $100. It doesn't include a separate subwoofer, upfiring audio drivers, dedicated rear speakers, or voice control. Instead, it's a simple stand-alone bar with stereo audio separation. Though there are limitations to keep in mind, this budget-friendly soundbar still offers a solid upgrade over most built-in TV speakers.
The SV200M replaces my previous pick in this spot, the older Vizio V-Series V21d-J8. That soundbar was also a great budget option, and I liked that it had a built-in woofer; however, it's no longer sold at most stores. As it stands, this newer 2.0-channel bar is the best value in Vizio's current lineup.
At around 30 inches wide, the soundbar isn't as compact as some other budget options, but it's still easy to place on most consoles. It also utilizes Vizio's QuickFit design, which allows it to mount to the bottom of certain Vizio TV models without tools.
An HDMI eARC connection is included for simple setup with modern TVs, but there are no video passthrough ports (as expected for a budget bar) or an optical port. That latter omission only matters if you have an especially old TV that doesn't support HDMI. The bar doesn't have a dedicated remote, but it can sync control with your TV's remote via HDMI. Bluetooth is also supported for wireless music streaming from mobile devices or computers.
The SV200M delivers left- and right-channel audio and offers solid performance for its class. But while it's technically capable of processing Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio tracks, its lack of upfiring audio drivers and 2.0-channel design means it can't actually showcase those formats' benefits. That said, the bar does support DTS Virtual:X simulated surround sound. The tech employed here is nowhere near as convincing as what you'd get on a high-end soundbar like the Sonos Arc Ultra, but it still expands the device's soundstage.
Check out our guide to all the best budget soundbars.
Best midrange
Yamaha's YAS-209 is a convenient 2.1-channel soundbar with great sound quality, a wireless subwoofer, and a reasonable price.
What we like
What we don't like
The YAS-209 isn't as immersive as pricier soundbar models, but it delivers good audio quality for the money and includes a wireless subwoofer for dedicated bass. This is the type of classic, 2.1-channel audio setup many think of when shopping for a soundbar, and it makes for a nice, no-fuss upgrade to built-in TV speakers.
The system delivers native stereo playback with left-right separation. It also features DTS Virtual:X processing to create a simulated surround-sound effect. It's not as convincing as more expensive systems that feature side-firing audio drivers or actual rear speakers, but it does a decent job. With or without virtual surround, the system delivers clear, balanced audio across a wide range of content.
The YAS-209 connects to your TV via its HDMI ARC port, and the soundbar features a handy HDMI-in port that supports passing video from a connected device, such as a gaming console or Blu-ray player, at up to 4K resolution at 60Hz with HDR (but not Dolby Vision).
An optical audio port is also featured for older TVs without HDMI ARC, and you can wirelessly stream music via Bluetooth or WiFi. Thanks to its built-in microphones, the YAS-209 supports Amazon Alexa, enabling voice control for functions such as volume.
This model has been around for several years and lacks some advanced features, such as Dolby Atmos support, that newer options offer. However, it still offers excellent overall value. The audio quality here is great for the price, making this one of the best soundbars available for under $500.
Best all-in-one
The Sonos Arc Ultra carries over everything we loved about the original Arc soundbar while offering bigger bass, improved Dolby Atmos immersion, and cleaner dialogue. It's pricey, but few stand-alone soundbars can match its performance.
What we like
What we don't like
In many ways, the Sonos Arc Ultra is the quintessential all-in-one soundbar. It offers a slick design, immersive Dolby Atmos audio, and a simplified setup that gets you up and running in minutes — all from a single bar that sits in front of your TV.
The Arc Ultra doesn't come with a separate subwoofer or rear speakers, but it still delivers impressive sound without them. This model is the successor to the standard Sonos Arc, and the Ultra offers a nice upgrade in bass and overall clarity.
To achieve its beefier performance, the Ultra uses Sonos' Sound Motion driver, which fits powerful woofers in a compact space while freeing up room for additional tweeters elsewhere in the bar. With 14 drivers total, including both side- and up-firing ones, the Arc Ultra provides a 9.1.4-channel Dolby Atmos experience that surrounds you in a dome of sound. You can even stream Atmos music from supported services, such as Amazon, via the Sonos app.
The app also allows you to adjust the sound, connect to other Sonos speakers, and activate the brand's TV Swap feature. TV Swap lets you transition to private listening when paired with Sonos Ace headphones. Although many users encountered issues with a Sonos software update in 2024, most of those problems have been resolved. The app still isn't perfect, but our reviewer didn't encounter any major hiccups.
The Arc Ultra's minimalist design is appealing, but it does have some downsides. Like its predecessor, it has limited inputs. There's no spare HDMI connection or optical port, though you can buy an optical adapter. And though the Arc Ultra supports standard DTS 5.1 audio, it does not support DTS:X.
On the plus side, the Arc Ultra adds one notable feature missing from the original Arc: Bluetooth support. It also has a new Advanced Speech Enhancement mode that can emphasize dialogue without affecting the quality of other sound effects.
The Arc Ultra's asking price is a bit high, but its performance justifies its cost. With excellent sound and numerous modern features, it's one of the best soundbars we've reviewed, offering a convenient way to upgrade your audio setup.
Read our Sonos Arc Ultra review.
Check out our guide to the best Sonos soundbars.
How we test soundbars
To find the best soundbars, our reviewers use a combination of hands-on testing and research, guided by more than a decade of experience covering home theater gear.
We focus first on audio quality, evaluating bass, mid, and treble performance across a wide range of movies and TV shows. Clear dialogue is especially important, so we test multiple sound modes and volume levels to ensure voices remain easy to hear without distortion, even at high volumes.
Music performance matters, too. We listen to carefully chosen tracks across genres like rock, pop, acoustic, and hip-hop to assess balance, detail, and clarity, and to determine whether a soundbar sounds thin, muddy, or compressed.
Beyond sound, we evaluate format support, connectivity, smart features, build quality, design, and overall value. Since convenience is a big reason people choose a soundbar, we also pay close attention to setup, ease of use, and how well each bar fits into a typical TV setup. Finally, we use every soundbar in day-to-day TV watching to get a feel for how it performs outside test scenes.
For more information about our testing process, check out our breakdown on how we review tech products.
Meet the expert behind this guide:
Steven Cohen, senior tech editor: My team and I have been reviewing audio gear for more than a decade, and we've used that experience to find the best soundbars across budgets. I also studied film production, so I know just how essential proper sound is to get the full impact of a movie or TV show. With that in mind, I've ensured all the picks in this guide deliver strong audio performance for their price tier. If nothing else, a soundbar should offer a better experience than a typical TV's built-in speakers — so I've used that as the starting point for all our recommendations. Clear dialogue is also a must, as is overall value and ease of use. Ultimately, I want to help you find a soundbar that genuinely improves your listening experience while still coming in at a reasonable cost.
Learn more about the Reviews team at Business Insider.
What to look for in a soundbar
When shopping for a soundbar, take a close look at the specs, especially the size and the number of audio channels. Entry-level models are typically compact and feature basic two-channel stereo, while pricier soundbars tend to be larger and support more channels for a better surround-sound effect. Some systems feature a single bar, while others incorporate a separate subwoofer, and some go all in with rear speakers. Generally, larger multi-speaker setups deliver better performance but require more space.
At a minimum, all of the best soundbars handle standard stereo PCM and Dolby Digital. If you're after a more immersive experience, look for models that support DTS Virtual:X or spatial audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
HDMI ARC or eARC is the preferred way to connect a soundbar to your TV, but it's also handy when a model includes extra wired inputs (such as optical or 3.5mm) for older TVs or additional audio gear. Some soundbars even have extra HDMI ports for video passthrough from devices like Blu-ray players or game consoles, though that's more common with higher-end options.
Bluetooth streaming comes standard on many soundbars, but WiFi audio typically delivers higher quality. If you want your soundbar to also serve as a smart speaker, look for one with built-in microphones and support for Alexa or Google Assistant.
How do I connect a soundbar?
Most soundbars sold today connect to your TV via an HDMI cable, using an HDMI ARC or eARC port. It's the simplest setup and the only connection that supports high-quality audio formats, such as Dolby Atmos. In many cases, using HDMI ARC also lets you control your soundbar's volume and power with your regular TV remote — always a win for cutting down on clutter.
Even if your TV is a few years old, there's a good chance it supports HDMI ARC. Just check the input panel for a port labeled "HDMI ARC" or "HDMI eARC." And if you need a reliable cable, check out our guide to the best HDMI cables for soundbars and TVs.
If your TV doesn't offer HDMI ARC or eARC, you'll have to connect your soundbar using an optical digital port instead. This will still give you solid audio quality, but it won't support 3D formats like Dolby Atmos. In that situation, it might be worth considering a TV upgrade to get the most out of a modern soundbar.
Entry-level 4K TVs with HDMI ARC can now be purchased for about $500 or less, depending on size. Check out our best TVs buying guide for top recommendations across different price ranges,
Soundbar FAQs
Are soundbars worth it?
Even cheap soundbars deliver better audio quality than the speakers you'll find built into most displays. To keep costs down and ensure that the speakers fit within a flat-screen design, TVs often include small drivers and poor placement, which can result in thin, muddy sound. The best soundbars enhance your TV-watching experience by adding more dimension and bass.
Top soundbars can also improve dialogue clarity and other effects. That's especially true for soundbars with a dedicated center channel, where most dialogue and other important movie and TV sound effects are directed.
Can I use a soundbar for music, too?
Yes, many of the best soundbars double as solid music speakers. Most soundbars include Bluetooth support at a minimum, while many midrange and high-end options also support WiFi streaming, AirPlay, Chromecast, or Spotify Connect. That said, some bars are tuned more for TV and movies, so music performance can vary.
What size soundbar should I get?
Size is an important factor to consider when shopping for a new soundbar. Many single-unit soundbars are built with a width of around 25 inches or larger, while some ultra-compact models can be as small as 14 inches wide. On the other end of the spectrum, high-end soundbar models can be as wide as 50 inches.
Generally speaking, larger soundbar models deliver better sound quality because they can incorporate more speaker drivers with larger dimensions. However, smaller bars are often more affordable, convenient, and easier to set up.
If you plan to place your soundbar on an entertainment console alongside your TV, measure the area before making a purchase. This way, you can ensure that the soundbar you choose won't be too wide to rest on your TV stand and that its height won't block your display.
Can soundbars support surround sound?
Many of the best soundbars support surround sound with multiple audio channels that can be beamed in different directions. Entry-level models usually stick to two channels for basic left- and right-channel stereo, while midrange and high-end soundbars often add five or more channels — typically including a center channel for dedicated dialogue and rear channels created with extra drivers, satellite speakers, or virtual processing.
Channel specs are written as up to three numbers separated by decimals. The first number indicates the number of ear-level channels (left, right, center, and surrounds). The second indicates whether there's a dedicated low-frequency channel or subwoofer for deeper bass. The third shows how many height channels are included for Dolby Atmos.
If you just want a simple upgrade from your TV's built-in speakers, a compact 2.0 or 2.1 system will do the trick. But for a true home-theater feel, look for a 5.1 setup or something even more advanced.
For more recommendations, check out our complete guide to the best surround sound systems.
What is Dolby Atmos?
Dolby Atmos is an immersive surround sound format that uses object-based audio mixing. In practice, this means that sounds can be more precisely positioned around your room, with effects placed in all directions, including overhead. For instance, when rain falls from the sky, or a helicopter flies overhead, you can actually hear the sound coming from above.
Dolby Atmos soundbars can use one of two methods to create overhead sound effects. The first involves audio processing to create a simulated sense of height from regular ear-level speakers. The second method uses upfiring drivers angled upward rather than forward to bounce sound effects off your ceiling. Good up-firing drivers provide a much more convincing sense of overhead sound than audio processing alone can.
For more details, see our "What is Dolby Atmos?" explainer.
Do I need a subwoofer?
A subwoofer can be an integral part of your cinematic and musical experience. Due to basic physics, soundbars alone can't offer the deep bass frequencies you'd get from a subwoofer. If you're looking for room-rattling thunder, a hefty boom from explosions, and powerful bass beats, consider a soundbar that either includes a subwoofer or, at the very least, allows you to add one later.
For our top recommendations, check out our guide to the best soundbars with subwoofers.
What are the top soundbar brands?
Many audio brands produce excellent soundbars, but some excel in specific price ranges. If you're shopping on a budget, Vizio, Roku, TCL, and Hisense are all strong picks. They consistently deliver solid entry-level options without inflating the price.
Moving up a tier, Yamaha, Sonos, and Bose offer some of the best midrange and upper-midrange soundbars that balance performance, features, and design. Samsung and Sony cover just about every budget, but they especially stand out with high-end models that offer advanced surround sound and Dolby Atmos support. And if you want premium performance, Sennheiser is a brand to keep on your radar.
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Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at reviews@jkmperu.com.
