Most soundbars also offer an optical audio input for older TVs that don’t support HDMI ARC, but it’s best to check (or you can upgrade to a newer TV). We recommend using a soundbar that has at least HDMI ARC, as it’s by far the easiest connection and is the minimum requirement for transmitting 3D audio formats that use height channels. Dolby Atmos or DTS:X.
Most soundbars support wireless streaming over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Higher quality models even have a spare HDMI input for connecting a source device directly and streaming video to your TV like a traditional A/V receiver. What you need depends entirely on your usage, but for most people a simple HDMI connection for HDMI ARC/eARC will suffice. These cables are usually included in the box; if not, see here. Affordable cables we like.
What about surround sound and Dolby Atmos?
Surround sound is exactly what it sounds like: a sound environment. It makes movies, games, and live sports feel more realistic. The best surround soundbars use dedicated rear surround speakers. Others use digital audio processing, sometimes combined with side-firing drivers to create a virtual surround effect. While some virtual surround systems are effective, they can’t replace the true immersion of dedicated surround sound speakers.
The same goes for 3D sound formats with height channels, such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. While the soundbars we tested don’t have ceiling-mounted speakers, the top-of-the-line models have upward-firing drivers in both the soundbar and the rear surround speakers, providing a fully immersive experience when playing supported content.
If you’re looking at serious surround speakers, consider using stands to place them behind the seating area. Also consider whether you want to buy wireless speakers (which usually require a power outlet) or wired speakers that you’ll need to plug into the bar.
Many Wi-Fi compatible soundbars Equipped with a smart assistantmulti-room audio connectivity, and other handy features. If you already have a favorite smart assistant like Alexa or Google Assistant, keep this in mind when buying. You might not need a smart speaker in your living room if you buy a smart soundbar instead. Conversely, if you don’t need those features, you can save money by avoiding a soundbar with all the fancy features. Klipsch soundbars, for example, tend to skip Wi-Fi and smart features in favor of sound quality and extra components.
Under $100
You can find smaller, cheaper soundbars in this price range. still They’re better than your TV’s speakers, and while they’re a good option if you’re on a budget, they’re most useful for TVs in small spaces like bedrooms or kitchens.
$100 to $400
This is a good price range for most non-surround soundbars. Look for name brands like Samsung, Vizio, Sony, Polk, LG, Bose, Klipsch, Sonos, etc. Typically, when buying a soundbar in this price range, Wireless Subwoofer However, it is included Sonos and Bose Soundbars in this price range offer pretty good sound quality and advanced networking capabilities. There are some soundbars with full-fledged surround sound speakers for under $400, but most aren’t the best for delivering truly immersive sound. Similarly, many bars offer “support” for Dolby Atmos or DTS:X, but unless they offer dedicated up-firing drivers, their effectiveness will be limited.
$400 to $1,000
At this price point, you’ll start to see subwoofers, true satellite speakers, and high-quality surround soundbars with Dolby Atmos support. In this range, you’ll also start to see advanced features like Wi-Fi streaming, multi-room audio, extra HDMI inputs, and the ability to add wireless surround sound speakers and subwoofers later. Depending on your usage, products at this level should have a lot of extra features, multiple audio components, or both.
For serious music fans, we also recommend high-quality powered/active bookshelf speakers. These all-in-one stereo systems offer much higher fidelity and musicality than most soundbars, and often come with versatile connectivity features like HDMI ARC, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. KEF, SVSKlipsch is one of our favorites right now.
Over $1,000
For this price, you’ll find the biggest, boldest soundbar systems available, with as many speakers as possible for height and surround audio. Small Home Theater System But if you don’t have the room or patience to install a system that requires lots of wiring and separate components like an A/V receiver, if you’re looking for something a little more expensive, consider a true traditional home theater system with speakers, an amplifier, and a receiver, or an audiophile-grade speaker system like the KEF LS50 Wireless Bookshelf Series.
Nearly every major electronics brand makes a great soundbar. Some of our favorites are Samsung, Sonos, Bose, Polk, Vizio, Klipsch, Yamaha, JBL, Sony, Sennheiser, and more. Go to a store that stocks a lot of soundbars and try them out. You’ll be amazed at the difference in sound. Check out our soundbars. Best Soundbar Our favourite guide.
