So, you're searching for the best all-in-one soundbar to elevate your TV setup—without the mess of multiple speakers or complicated wiring. With so many models promising premium audio in compact packages, finding the right one can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in.

In this guide, we’ve done the legwork to uncover the best all-in-one soundbars based on real-world testing, focusing on performance, design, ease of use, and overall value.

Our top pick? The Samsung S60D—a stylish 5.0 channel soundbar with built-in Alexa, Dolby Atmos, and seamless wireless connectivity. It impressed us with its room-filling sound, intuitive controls, and sleek minimalist design that fits effortlessly into any space.

Want something more compact? The JBL Bar 2.0 All-in-One delivers surprisingly powerful sound and dialogue clarity without needing a subwoofer. And if you’re watching your budget, the LG SQM1 proves you don’t have to break the bank for a serious upgrade to your TV’s built-in audio.

Not all soundbars are created equal, though. We also tested one that missed the mark—read on to find out which model to avoid. Whether you're after cinematic sound or casual clarity, there's a soundbar here to suit your space, style, and budget.

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What Features Should Come in an All-In-One Soundbar

When investing in an all-in-one soundbar, you’re looking for a streamlined solution that delivers clear, immersive sound without the need for external speakers or subwoofers. Here’s what you should expect as standard in this category:

• 2.0 Channel Minimum: At least a stereo setup to ensure left/right sound separation.
• Built-In Amplifier: Powers the unit without needing extra components.
• Bluetooth Connectivity: For easy wireless streaming from phones and tablets.
• HDMI ARC or eARC Support: For simplified connection and control via your TV’s remote.
• Digital Optical Input: Allows high-quality audio from older devices without HDMI.
• TV Compatibility: Should work seamlessly with most modern televisions.
• Decent Power Output (30W or more): Enough volume for small to medium-sized rooms.
• Compact Design: Slim enough to sit under your TV without obstructing the screen.
• Plug-and-Play Setup: Should be simple to install and get running without technical knowledge.

Design and Build Quality

A soundbar should not only sound great but also complement your space. While audio quality is crucial, the way it’s built matters too—both visually and practically.

• Compact Form Factor: Should fit under your TV or mount to the wall without hassle.
• Durable Materials: A solid, well-constructed chassis is a sign of longevity.
• Minimalist Aesthetic: Clean lines, subtle branding, and neutral colours are preferred for blending in.
• Weight and Stability: Should feel substantial enough to stay in place without tipping or sliding.
• Accessible Ports: Inputs should be logically placed and easy to reach, even when wall-mounted.
• User-Friendly Controls: Onboard buttons should be clearly labeled and responsive.

Extra Features That Power Up Your Setup

Beyond the basics, some soundbars come loaded with bonus features that make them even more versatile and enjoyable to use. While not all are essential, they can add significant value:

• Dolby Atmos or DTS:X Support: For a more immersive, spatial audio experience.
• Voice Assistant Integration: Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri for hands-free control.
• Wi-Fi Connectivity: Enables multi-room audio and higher-quality streaming compared to Bluetooth.
• Q-Symphony or Similar TV Sync Features: Allows better harmony between TV speakers and soundbar.
• EQ or Sound Modes: Presets like Movie, Music, or Voice to tailor the sound to your content.
• Night Mode: Lowers bass and volume spikes for late-night viewing.
• Remote Control with Display: A remote with intuitive buttons and visible feedback is a plus.
• Mobile App Control: Optional control through a smartphone app for more customization.
• Auto Power On/Off: Detects input signals and powers on or off accordingly.

When evaluating an all-in-one soundbar, checking off these categories will help ensure you’re getting a well-rounded, reliable product that not only sounds great but fits your lifestyle and setup.

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Editors Pick

Samsung All-in-one Soundbar, 5.0ch Lifestyle with Alexa Built-in

The Samsung S60D is a sleek, compact soundbar designed to deliver rich, room-filling audio in an all-in-one unit. With Dolby Atmos, integrated Alexa, and wireless connectivity, it offers a balanced mix of performance, style, and convenience—making it the best all-in-one soundbar we’ve tested.

Key Features

• Cinematic Audio: A 5.0 channel system with Dolby Atmos delivers immersive surround sound, elevating movies, games, and music.
• Minimalist Design: A compact, all-in-one build with a sleek black finish blends into any entertainment space.
• Alexa Built-In: Voice control for playback, volume, and settings using Amazon Alexa makes everyday use intuitive.
• Wireless Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enable seamless pairing with TVs, phones, and other devices.
• Q-Symphony Compatible: Pairs with Samsung TVs to deliver enhanced, synchronised sound from both the TV and soundbar speakers.

We tested the Samsung S60D with a range of media and were impressed by its overall clarity and sound stage. Dialogue was crisp, bass was balanced, and the Dolby Atmos feature added noticeable spatial depth—especially in action scenes.

The setup was simple and pairing via HDMI-eARC took seconds. Bluetooth worked effortlessly with both a smartphone and laptop. Having Alexa built in was a practical bonus for hands-free control, especially when switching inputs or streaming music.

While the unit doesn’t offer much visual feedback (like an on/standby light), the voice prompts and performance more than made up for it. Its compact form factor and premium finish made it a great aesthetic match for our setup.

If you’re after top-tier performance in a clutter-free design, this is a smart, all-in-one solution that truly delivers.

Runner Up

JBL Bar 2.0 All-in-one (MK2): Compact 2.0 Channel soundbar

The JBL Bar 2.0 All-in-One (MK2) is a sleek, compact soundbar offering enhanced audio and modern features at a slightly higher price point. It’s ideal for users who want better sound quality than built-in TV speakers without investing in a full surround system.

Key Features

• Clear Dialogue: Voices are crisp and easy to hear, even at lower volumes—perfect for TV dramas and talk shows.
• Impressive Bass: Delivers surprising low-end punch without needing a subwoofer.
• Dolby Digital: Adds cinematic depth to movie nights with virtual surround sound.
• Bluetooth Streaming: Connects easily with phones or tablets for quick, wireless music playback.
• Compact Design: Sits neatly under your TV with a clean, low-profile look.
• Quick Setup: HDMI ARC allows fast, simple connection.
• User-Friendly Remote: Intuitive controls make it easy to switch inputs or adjust volume.
• No Fuss: Works reliably with minimal adjustments.

We tested the JBL Bar 2.0 All-in-One in a medium-sized living room and were impressed with its performance. The soundbar fits perfectly under the TV and blended nicely with the space. Voices in films and shows came through clearly, and the bass added a real presence to action scenes.

The setup process was quick, and we were able to start using it right away via HDMI ARC. Music streaming via Bluetooth was seamless and lag-free. It doesn’t have EQ controls, so you can’t adjust treble or bass manually, but the default tuning is well-balanced for general use.

While not ideal for very large rooms, it’s a great step up from basic TV audio. If you’re after clean design, easy streaming, and solid sound, this soundbar delivers.

Budget Pick

LG SQM1 Bluetooth Compact All-In-One Soundbar 2.0

The LG SQM1 is a compact and affordable soundbar that delivers surprisingly full sound in smaller spaces. Designed to sit neatly in front of your TV, it offers simple setup, Bluetooth connectivity, and TV remote compatibility—making it a great budget-friendly upgrade for casual viewing or music playback.

Key Features

• Compact Design: Sits comfortably under most TVs without taking up space or blocking the screen.
• 40W Audio Output: Delivers rich, balanced sound that enhances everyday content.
• Bluetooth Connectivity: Wirelessly stream music from your phone or tablet.
• TV Remote Compatibility: Control volume and power with your existing remote (if supported).
• Quick Setup: Connects easily to your TV or device in minutes via Bluetooth or standard cables.

We tested the LG SQM1 in a small lounge, and it handled TV shows, films, and music with ease. The sound was clear, and for a 2.0 setup, it provided enough depth for everyday use.

Music streaming via Bluetooth worked without issue, and having it respond to the TV remote made things much more convenient. Its compact size is ideal for small rooms where space matters. While it lacks advanced features like a digital display or surround sound, it performs well in its category.

The volume is enough for most scenarios, though it may feel limited in louder environments.

Overall, the SQM1 stands out as a reliable budget option. It’s not flashy, but it’s consistent, easy to use, and genuinely improves your TV’s built-in sound without costing much. For the price, we think it’s a smart, practical pick.

Most Compact Pick

Samsung S801B Ultra Slim All In One Soundbar Speaker (2022)

The Samsung S801B is the slimmest soundbar we’ve tested, designed to bring cinematic sound to your living room without the bulk. Its ultra-thin profile pairs seamlessly with wall-mounted TVs, while delivering immersive audio that feels much larger than its compact design suggests.

Perfect for smaller spaces or minimalist setups.

Key Features

• Dolby Atmos & DTS:X: Brings 3D surround sound that fills the room.
• Built-in Centre Speaker: Enhances dialogue clarity in films and TV shows.
• AI Sound: Automatically adjusts volume based on ambient noise.
• Q-Symphony: Combines soundbar and Samsung TV speakers for fuller sound.
• Slim Wall Mount: Included kit ensures a sleek, flush finish with your wall.
• Tap Sound: Instantly mirror audio from your phone with a single tap.
• Wi-Fi, Bluetooth & HDMI ARC: Flexible, wire-free streaming and setup options.
• Stylish Minimalism: Ultra-slim design fits discreetly beneath most TVs.

We recently tested the Samsung S801B with a 65" Samsung TV, and the result was impressive. Setup was quick using the included HDMI ARC cable, and the wireless sub paired instantly.

The soundbar delivered rich, layered sound across all frequencies, with voices coming through clearly—even during action scenes.

The up-firing speakers added a surprising vertical dimension, making us feel more immersed in what we were watching. Tap Sound worked perfectly with our phone, and we appreciated not having to deal with messy wires thanks to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth options.

Its ultra-slim form was also a highlight—barely noticeable under the TV, yet powerful enough to transform the entire viewing experience. If you want top-quality sound without sacrificing space, this is the soundbar to consider.

Premium Pick

Amazon Fire TV Soundbar Plus, 3.1 channel, all-in-one design

The Fire TV Soundbar Plus is a compact, all-in-one 3.1 channel system designed to upgrade your TV audio with rich, immersive sound.

With Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, built-in bass, and easy Fire TV integration, it's ideal for those seeking cinema-quality sound without the clutter of multiple speakers or complicated setup.

Key Features

• All-in-One Design: Built-in bass and a centre dialogue channel eliminate the need for separate subwoofers or satellite speakers.
• Dolby Atmos & DTS:X: Delivers spacious, three-dimensional sound that enhances films, TV, and music.
• Quick Setup: Simply connect using the supplied HDMI eARC/ARC cable and you're ready to go.
• Audio Formats: Film, Music, Sport, and Night modes automatically optimise sound for different content types.
• Bluetooth Streaming: Easily stream music from your phone or tablet wirelessly.
• Fire TV Integration: Seamlessly adjust sound settings and control the soundbar with your Fire TV remote.

We tested the Fire TV Soundbar Plus in a typical living room setup and were genuinely impressed by its performance. Dialogue was sharp and clear even during busy action scenes, thanks to the dedicated centre channel.

The built-in bass had plenty of punch for movies and gaming, while Dolby Atmos and DTS:X added a sense of depth and dimension. Setup took under five minutes, and we appreciated the ability to control everything using one remote when paired with a Fire TV.

Switching between content modes was smooth and useful—Night mode in particular helped reduce late-night disruptions. The Bluetooth function worked reliably for streaming playlists, and the design looks clean under any TV.

It may not have Alexa built-in, but for everyday use, that wasn’t a dealbreaker. If you want premium sound in a simple package, this soundbar offers incredible value with minimal effort.

One To Avoid

Groove Soundbar 110 - All-in-one Sound Bar with Bluetooth

After spending time with the Groove Soundbar 110, we found it difficult to recommend. While setup was quick and it offers multiple connection options (Bluetooth, AUX, Optical, and USB), these features don’t compensate for the larger issues that surfaced during use.

The sound quality was underwhelming. Although it delivers decent volume and includes three listening modes, the bass was far from deep, and audio often felt flat.

Any clarity gained in Voice mode was quickly overshadowed by noticeable buzzing at higher volumes—a dealbreaker for anyone wanting reliable performance.

Mounting the unit was one of the most frustrating experiences we’ve had with a soundbar. The ports are positioned so close to the wall that plugging in cables without bending them was nearly impossible. For a product meant to save space, it felt poorly designed.

Bluetooth connection dropped occasionally, and the remote caused compatibility issues with our Fire TV. Over time, we found ourselves relying less on the soundbar due to these persistent problems.

While the Groove Soundbar 110 might look sleek and perform slightly better than standard TV speakers, the issues it brings—sound inconsistencies, design flaws, and reliability concerns—make it one to avoid. In the end, even at a lower price, it simply isn't worth the hassle.

How We Tested and Chose the Best All-In-One Soundbars on the Market

When it comes to choosing the best all-in-one soundbar, we went far beyond simply plugging it in and pressing play. Our evaluation process focused on everything that matters—sound quality, ease of use, smart features, design, and overall value. Here’s how we approached it.

Setup and Installation

We began by assessing how easy each soundbar was to get up and running. Installation should be straightforward and stress-free, so we looked at how intuitive the setup process was, whether HDMI ARC or eARC connected properly, and if Bluetooth or Wi-Fi pairing worked without hiccups.

We also noted how well the soundbars integrated with different TVs and smart devices.

Sound Quality

The core of any soundbar is its audio performance. We listened carefully to dialogue clarity, checked how the bass held up—especially without a dedicated subwoofer—and evaluated how the soundbar handled both low and high volumes.

We paid special attention to stereo separation and whether virtual surround features like Dolby Atmos actually delivered depth. We also explored various sound modes to see if they meaningfully enhanced the experience.

Performance Across Different Content

Not all soundbars perform equally across different types of media. We tested a wide range of content including movies, TV shows, music, and games. For movies, we listened for cinematic impact and clarity during intense action scenes.

TV shows helped us gauge how well the soundbar handled spoken dialogue and background audio. Music tests covered different genres, from bass-heavy tracks to vocal-focused acoustics. For gaming, we looked for audio lag and spatial awareness.

Design and Build Quality

A soundbar should complement your space as much as it improves your sound. We looked closely at each unit’s build quality, assessing materials, design, and finish. We considered how well the soundbar would fit under a TV or on a shelf, whether it stayed in place, and how accessible the ports were.

Overall craftsmanship, visual appeal, and sturdiness were key factors.

Ease of Use and Controls

Usability matters. We examined how responsive and intuitive each soundbar’s remote was, tested the onboard controls, and explored the usefulness of voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant when integrated. If a mobile app was available, we assessed whether it added functionality or just clutter.

Ease of switching inputs, adjusting settings, and navigating features all played a role in our assessment.

Connectivity and Smart Features

We also evaluated the soundbars’ connectivity and smart capabilities. Bluetooth streaming was tested for stability and range. Where Wi-Fi features were available, we tested integration with streaming services, voice control, and compatibility with features like AirPlay or Chromecast.

For soundbars that support syncing with TV speakers (like Samsung’s Q-Symphony), we checked how well they worked in harmony to enhance the overall audio experience.

Different Room and Surface Conditions

To understand how well each soundbar adapts to its environment, we tested them in both smaller and larger rooms, and placed them on different surfaces like wood furniture and carpeted areas.

We also considered how background noise affected performance and whether the soundbar maintained clarity and balance.

Long-Term Reliability

We didn’t stop at first impressions. Each unit was used over extended periods to check for software stability, overheating, or connectivity issues. We paid attention to how well the soundbar held up with daily use, noting any bugs or performance dips over time.

Value for Money

Finally, we considered what you’re getting for the price. A more expensive soundbar should offer noticeably better sound, build, and features. At the same time, budget options should still meet basic standards for audio and usability.

We compared performance, included accessories, warranty coverage, and brand support to determine overall value.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are Soundbars Worth It in the UK?

Yes, soundbars are worth it in the UK. Most modern TVs have slim designs that limit speaker quality, and a soundbar significantly enhances audio clarity and depth.

Whether you're watching films, streaming shows, or listening to music, a premium soundbar provides a richer, more immersive experience without needing a full setup.

Are All In One Soundbars Better Than TV Speakers?

Yes, all-in-one soundbars are generally better than TV speakers. TV's Built-in speakers often lacks depth and power due to space constraints.

All-in-one soundbars are designed to improve dialogue clarity, add bass, and deliver a fuller sound profile, making them a worthwhile upgrade for most entertainment setups.

Do You Need a Soundbar With a Smart TV?

You don't technically need a soundbar with a smart TV, but it greatly enhances the experience. Smart TVs offer great visuals, but their built-in speakers are often underwhelming.

A soundbar complements the screen by delivering clearer audio, especially for dialogue and cinematic effects, improving overall viewing quality.

Do Soundbars Use a Lot of Electricity?

No, soundbars do not use a lot of electricity. Most models are energy-efficient, especially compared to larger home theater systems. On average, a soundbar consumes less power than a standard light bulb during normal use, making it a low-cost addition in terms of energy consumption.

Can You Leave a Soundbar On All the Time?

While you can leave a soundbar on all the time, it's not always recommended. Many soundbars feature auto-standby modes to conserve energy when not in use. Leaving it on continuously may lead to unnecessary power usage or shorten lifespan, so it's best to use built-in power-saving features.

Are Sound Bars Better Than Surround Sound?

Soundbars offer a more compact and convenient solution, but they are not necessarily better than full surround sound. A surround sound system provides more directional audio and immersion.

However, soundbars are ideal for smaller spaces or those seeking simplicity without sacrificing significant sound quality.

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Final Word

We hope you found our guide to the best all-in-one soundbars helpful and that it’s brought you closer to finding the perfect audio upgrade for your setup. Choosing the right soundbar can be tricky with so many solid contenders, but for us, the standout is the Samsung S60D.

Its impressive Dolby Atmos sound, sleek design, and built-in Alexa make it a truly complete package for both movie lovers and casual viewers alike. Of course, the JBL Bar 2.0 and LG SQM1 also deserve a look, especially if you're after great performance in a compact or budget-friendly form.

However, one model didn’t make the cut—the Groove Soundbar 110. Despite its low price and sleek looks, poor sound quality, frustrating design flaws, and unreliable performance make it one to avoid.

Tried any of these yourself? Still weighing your options? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!