So, you're looking to upgrade your home audio setup and find the best soundbar—but with so many models out there, it’s tough to know where to start. No worries—we’ve done the testing for you!

In this guide, we break down the top soundbars for every budget and setup, from cinematic surround sound to compact solutions perfect for small spaces.

Whether you're binge-watching a new series, gaming late into the night, or just want richer music playback, we’ve found standout options that deliver big on performance and ease of use.

After hands-on testing across various living room setups, the Samsung Q600C earned our Editor’s Pick for its immersive Dolby Atmos sound, wireless subwoofer, and seamless integration with Samsung TVs.

Want something smaller and simpler? The Bose Solo Soundbar Series 2 impressed us with crystal-clear dialogue and an ultra-easy setup. On a budget? The ULTIMEA Apollo S50 packs punchy audio and smart features at an unbeatable price.

And if you're wondering what to skip? We’ve flagged the Arc Audio Cinema One as one to avoid due to connectivity issues and underwhelming performance. Read on to find the best soundbar for your space and finally give your TV the sound it deserves!

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Must-Have Features in Today’s Best Soundbars

Before diving into features and brands, it's important to set realistic expectations for what a good soundbar should offer. At the very least, a soundbar should significantly improve upon your TV's built-in speakers and provide a convenient, user-friendly experience. Here's what should be a given:

• Clear Dialogue: Voices should be crisp and easy to hear without having to crank up the volume.
• Balanced Audio: Good balance between highs, mids, and lows to ensure an enjoyable experience across movies, music, and TV shows.
• Plug-and-Play Setup: Minimal setup with straightforward instructions and necessary cables included.
• Universal Compatibility: Should work seamlessly with most TVs via HDMI ARC, Optical, or Bluetooth.
• Remote Control or App Support: Basic remote control included or app-based control if no physical remote is present.
• Consistent Performance: No sudden audio drops, sync issues, or need for frequent re-pairing.

Design and Build Quality

Soundbars sit front and center in your living room, so aesthetics and durability matter more than you might think. Here's what to look for:

• Compact or Slim Design: Should fit comfortably beneath your TV or be wall-mountable if space is tight.
• Quality Materials: Look for robust plastic, metal grilles, or cloth coverings that don’t feel cheap or flimsy.
• Stable Build: It should stay firmly in place on your TV unit without sliding or wobbling.
• Discreet Cable Management: Ports should be easily accessible and designed to keep wiring neat and hidden.
• Matching Width: Ideally aligns well with the width of your TV for a cohesive, streamlined look.

Smart Upgrades and Performance Boosters

Top-tier soundbars often come with bonus features that elevate the user experience and cater to specific needs like gaming, nighttime viewing, or music streaming:

• Dolby Atmos / DTS:X Support: Provides virtual surround sound or 3D audio for a more immersive experience.
• Wireless Subwoofer: Adds bass without the hassle of wiring across your living space.
• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Connectivity: Enables wireless streaming from your phone, tablet, or smart home devices.
• Voice Enhancement Modes: Specifically improves dialogue clarity, useful for news or drama content.
• EQ Presets or Sound Modes: Tailors sound for movies, music, sports, or games.
• Night Mode: Reduces loud peaks and enhances softer sounds for late-night viewing.
• HDMI eARC Support: Allows for higher-quality audio formats and simpler control through one remote.
• Smart Home Integration: Compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple AirPlay for added convenience.

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Editors Pick

Samsung Q600C 3.1.2ch Q Series Soundbar Speaker (2023)

The Samsung Q600C Soundbar is our Editor’s Pick for the best soundbar thanks to its balance of sound quality, smart features, and ease of use. Whether you're watching films, gaming, or streaming music, it delivers rich, immersive audio with a fuss-free setup.

Key Features

• Immersive Sound: 9 built-in speakers, rear speakers, and a centre channel deliver clear dialogue and three-dimensional audio with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
• Wireless Subwoofer: A 6.5" wireless sub adds deep bass without cluttering your setup.
• Smart Modes: Adaptive sound, Night Mode, and Game Mode fine-tune audio to match what you’re watching or playing.
• Q-Symphony Integration: Pairs with Samsung TVs to create an expanded soundstage using both the TV and soundbar speakers.
• Easy Setup: HDMI ARC and Bluetooth connectivity make installation quick and seamless, with added Bluetooth support for audio streaming.

We tested the Q600C in a medium-sized living room and were immediately impressed by its clarity and depth. Dialogue was crisp and easy to follow, even in fast-paced scenes. The subwoofer added solid low-end response, making action sequences feel more impactful without overpowering the room.

We liked the automatic tuning features—switching between film, gaming, or music modes felt natural and required no manual tweaking. Pairing with a Samsung TV unlocked Q-Symphony, which significantly boosted the sense of space in the sound.

Setup was simple with HDMI ARC, and we also streamed music via Bluetooth with no issues. Though the bass won’t shake the floor, it delivers well-rounded performance that’s ideal for most living spaces. For a clean, reliable upgrade from built-in TV speakers, the Q600C hits the mark.

Runner Up

Bose Solo Soundbar Series 2 Bluetooth TV Speaker

The Bose Solo Soundbar Series 2 offers a great balance of performance and value. Designed to improve voice clarity and overall audio quality, it’s ideal for anyone upgrading from built-in TV speakers.

With Bluetooth connectivity and a compact, wall-mountable build, this is a strong, mid-range option with just enough extra features to stand out.

Key Features

• Dialogue Mode: Makes speech clearer and easier to follow without raising the volume.
• Bluetooth Streaming: Connects wirelessly to your devices for music and podcast playback.
• Built-in Dolby Decoding: Enhances detail and depth for a more cinematic experience.
• Compact Build: Fits under most TVs and includes a steel wall bracket for mounting.
• Bass Enhancement: Add depth with a dedicated BASS button on the remote.
• Auto On: Powers up automatically when your TV does, remembering your last settings.
• Simple Setup: Comes with an optical audio cable for plug-and-play installation.

We tested the Bose Solo Soundbar Series 2 in a small living room setup, and it performed well right out of the box. Setup took minutes with the included optical cable, and the sound improvement was immediate—especially in dialogue-heavy scenes.

The Dialogue Mode made speech clearer without raising the volume too high, which really helped during late-night viewing. Bass response is full and warm, though there’s limited flexibility for fine-tuning. Some may find it slightly too punchy, especially in quieter scenes.

That said, Bluetooth pairing was seamless, and it worked just as well for music playback. The lack of an HDMI port is a noticeable omission at this price, but the overall experience is solid. If voice clarity, ease of use, and a clean design matter most, this is a soundbar worth considering.

Budget Pick

ULTIMEA 4.1ch Sound Bar for Smart TV with Subwoofer, Peak Power 200W

The ULTIMEA Apollo S50 soundbar is a strong budget option for anyone looking to boost their home entertainment setup. With rich audio, a detachable design, and a powerful wired subwoofer, it offers practical features and solid performance without the premium price tag.

Key Features

• Flexible Design: Detachable bar splits into upright speakers or stays as a single unit. The 7° tilt improves sound projection.
• Powerful Subwoofer: A 7.2L wired sub with 15mm diaphragm travel delivers deeper bass.
• EQ Modes: Choose from Music, Movie, and Game presets, with adjustable bass via BassMX tech.
• Multiple Connections: Supports HDMI ARC, Optical, AUX, USB, and Bluetooth 5.3. Cables included.
• Simple Controls: Use your TV remote via CEC when connected with ARC.
• Well Built: Solid design and neatly packed with all accessories included.

We tested the Apollo S50 with both movies and music across a range of devices. Sound clarity was impressive, with crisp dialogue and strong bass that added depth to action scenes and music playback.

The detachable speaker option is ideal for those with limited space or unique room setups, and the tilting design really helped push sound more directly into the room. We appreciated the easy-to-use EQ presets, and Bluetooth pairing was quick and stable.

With HDMI ARC support and CEC sync, we were able to control both the TV and soundbar with one remote—no extra hassle. Everything you need is included in the box, and setup took less than ten minutes. For its price range, the Apollo S50 feels well made and performs reliably.

It’s a clear choice if you're after an affordable upgrade that doesn’t compromise on sound quality or essential features.

Premium Pick

Hiwill 4.1ch 300W Sound Bar for TV with Dolby Atmos

The Hiwill HiElite A41 sound bar is a powerful and immersive home audio solution designed for movie lovers, gamers, and music enthusiasts alike. With Dolby Atmos, deep bass, and precise vocal clarity, this system brings true cinema sound into your living room with minimal effort and maximum impact.

Key Features

• Dolby Atmos & 3D Audio: Creates a spacious 360-degree sound field that surrounds you with multi-directional sound.
• 300W Power Output: Delivers rich, room-filling sound through a central sound bar, surround speakers, and subwoofer.
• Custom EQ Settings: Adjust bass, treble, and choose from Movie, Music, and News modes.
• HDMI eARC & Bluetooth: Quick setup with automatic TV sync and multiple connectivity options.
• Wired Setup: Front and satellite speakers connect via included cables for stable, uninterrupted sound.

We recently tested the HiElite A41, and it stands out for its excellent performance and thoughtful design. The 5.25-inch subwoofer produces a deep, punchy bass that fills the room without overpowering dialogue.

Dialogue clarity was especially strong, thanks to Hiwill’s HXS-Processing technology, making conversations crisp and easy to follow—even during action scenes.

We appreciated how easy it was to set up. HDMI eARC made configuration seamless, and we had no issues when switching to Bluetooth or optical inputs. The sound bar’s slim profile fit perfectly under the TV, and cable lengths made speaker placement flexible.

While the speakers are all wired, which may limit placement options, this setup ensured consistent audio quality. For medium-sized rooms, the soundstage was immersive and cinematic. If you’re looking for theatre-level sound at home, this is a serious contender.

Best Compact Soundbar Pick

Saiyin Sound Bar for TV, Soundbar with Bluetooth 5.3, Optical

The Saiyin Sound Bar is our top choice for anyone after a compact sound upgrade without taking up extra space. With its sleek 17-inch design and versatile connectivity, it’s a smart addition for bedrooms, gaming setups, or small living rooms.

Key Features

• Compact Design: Just under 3 inches tall, it fits neatly under most TVs and monitors, keeping your setup clean and organised.
• Bluetooth & Wired Inputs: Supports Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless streaming and includes AUX and optical ports with input-specific lighting.
• Clear Audio Output: Dual 20W drivers deliver crisp, well-balanced sound for general TV use, music, and dialogue-heavy content.
• Visual Volume Display: A light progress bar indicates volume level as you adjust, offering quick visual feedback.
• Fire TV Stick Compatible: Control volume using your Fire TV remote—no need to juggle multiple remotes.

We tested the Saiyin soundbar with both a small TV and a desktop monitor. Setup was quick, especially with the included optical cable. We appreciated how intuitive the controls were, whether using the remote or the onboard buttons.

Sound quality was clear and loud enough for small to medium spaces. Music, news, and movies all sounded far better than with built-in TV speakers. The visual volume indicator helped avoid surprise volume jumps.

Bluetooth pairing was instant, and the input lighting made it easy to switch sources. For those using Fire TV, volume control worked seamlessly. To avoid any issues, ensure your TV audio is set to PCM for optical use.

Overall, this soundbar is a compact and affordable solution that gets the job done well—without cluttering your space.

One To Avoid

Arc Audio Cinema One Sound Bar for TV with Built-in Subwoofer & Remote Control

We tested the Arc Audio Cinema One Sound Bar and, unfortunately, this is one we’d recommend avoiding. While the design is compact and it delivers acceptable volume for smaller spaces, the overall experience left us disappointed.

The sound is clear at times, and there’s a decent level of bass—but with no option to adjust it, it quickly becomes overpowering (especially in dialogue-heavy scenes).

Connectivity was one of the biggest letdowns. The optical input didn’t work reliably with our TV, and Bluetooth pairing was hit-or-miss—especially with laptops. There’s no HDMI ARC, which means you can’t control everything with one remote, and that’s a major drawback for modern setups.

Even the included remote feels like an afterthought—lightweight, unresponsive, and only reliable at close range. Although there’s a 3-year warranty and the promise of lifetime spares and support, those positives don’t outweigh the core issues.

The background hum when idle, limited audio controls, and unstable connections make this feel like a product not fully ready for real-world use.

In the end, despite a few highlights, this soundbar failed to deliver where it mattered most. For us, it’s one of the most frustrating devices we've tested—and we wouldn’t recommend it.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Soundbars on the Market

Choosing the best soundbars meant looking beyond specs and focusing on how each model performs, connects, and fits into everyday life. From setup to long-term usability, we evaluated what really matters.

Setup and Compatibility

We started by checking how easy each soundbar was to unbox and connect. Setup time, clarity of instructions, and port accessibility were all noted. We tested compatibility with both modern smart TVs and older models, using HDMI ARC, optical, AUX, USB, and Bluetooth connections.

CEC functionality was also checked to ensure the soundbar could be controlled with the TV remote. The goal was to identify models that require little effort to get started and offer a smooth, hassle-free installation process for all types of users.

Audio Quality

To assess sound performance, we tested a variety of scenes with rich dialogue, strong bass, and layered soundtracks. We listened closely for vocal clarity, balanced tone, and a satisfying low-end response—especially during action scenes and music playback.

Dolby Atmos and DTS:X capabilities were tested where supported, focusing on spatial sound and immersion. We adjusted volume levels across the range to evaluate distortion and dynamic response.

This gave us a clear picture of which models deliver consistent, high-quality audio across different listening situations without needing frequent tweaks.

Content Variety

We tested each soundbar with a mix of entertainment types to see how well it adapted. Movies were used to judge impact and range, especially during high-action moments. We streamed music across genres like classical, pop, and hip-hop to assess detail and warmth.

Gaming sessions helped evaluate latency and positional sound cues. We also listened to podcasts and talk shows to test vocal sharpness and how well compressed audio was handled.

This range of content helped reveal how versatile each soundbar was and whether it delivered a consistently strong performance regardless of source.

Connectivity and Smart Features

Wireless surround speakers and smart features were a key part of our testing. We paired each soundbar with phones and tablets using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, checking for range, speed, and connection stability. For models with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant, we tested responsiveness and ease of setup.

App control was reviewed for stability and usefulness—especially when adjusting sound profiles or updating firmware. Where multi-room audio was supported, we checked for syncing accuracy.

We wanted to ensure the soundbar didn’t just sound great, but also played nicely with other devices and smart home systems.

Usability and Interface

We focused on how intuitive the soundbar felt in everyday use. Remotes were tested for responsiveness and layout clarity. We checked whether on-device displays or LED indicators made settings and volume changes easy to track.

Sound modes—such as Movie, Music, Game, or Night—were used to gauge how well they adjusted audio for specific situations. Voice enhancement and night mode features were tested at low and moderate volumes.

These everyday touches can make a big difference in usability, especially for households that switch between content types frequently or watch TV in the evening.

Design and Build Quality

Design matters, especially when the soundbar is front and center in your living room. We inspected each unit for solid construction, quality materials, and overall style. We considered how well the soundbar fit with typical TV stands and wall-mounting options, and whether it stayed securely in place.

Cable management and input placement were reviewed for tidiness and accessibility. While some materials felt premium, others showed signs of corner-cutting.

We took note of how the design affected both functionality and aesthetics—focusing on models that felt like a natural extension of your home setup.

Daily Use and Longevity

To simulate long-term use, we tested each soundbar over several days, switching between content, adjusting settings, and turning devices on and off. We monitored for idle noise, power delays, or connection dropouts.

If a firmware update was available, we applied it to see how smooth the process was. Stability in performance was a big factor—we favored soundbars that held their settings, powered on quickly, and didn’t require constant troubleshooting.

This stage of testing helped identify whether a product was built for long-term ease of use or if issues would surface over time.

Value for Money

We wrapped up by comparing price to performance. While some models offered premium features at a higher cost, others delivered impressive results without breaking the bank.

We looked at what's included in the box—like mounting hardware or cables—and reviewed the quality of customer support and warranty coverage. A great soundbar should justify its price tag with consistent sound, useful features, and reliable performance.

Those that cut too many corners or added unnecessary frills didn’t make the cut. In the end, value wasn’t just about being affordable—it was about delivering more than expected for the price.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is A Soundbar As Good As Speakers For TV?

A soundbar can be as good as traditional speakers for TV, depending on your space and expectations.

While separate speakers may offer more detailed surround sound, a quality soundbar delivers significantly better audio than built-in TV speakers, with clearer dialogue and improved depth—all in a simpler, space-saving design.

Are Soundbars Better With Subwoofer?

Yes, soundbars are generally better with a subwoofer. Adding a subwoofer enhances low-frequency sounds, bringing more depth to action scenes and music. Without one, audio can feel flat or lack impact.

A subwoofer helps create a fuller, more immersive experience, especially in larger rooms or for movie watching.

Is It Better To Buy A Soundbar The Same Brand As A TV?

Buying a soundbar from the same brand as your TV can offer better compatibility, such as shared remotes or enhanced features like synchronised TV sound modes.

However, it’s not essential. What matters most is the soundbar’s performance and connectivity, not necessarily whether it matches your TV’s brand.

Does A Soundbar Sound Better With HDMI Or Optical?

A soundbar generally sounds better with HDMI compared to optical. HDMI input supports higher-quality audio formats like Dolby Atmos soundbar and allows control through the TV remote.

Optical connections work well for basic audio but lack the bandwidth for advanced features, making HDMI the preferred option for most setups.

Is Wi-Fi Or Bluetooth Better For a Soundbar?

Wi-Fi is generally better than Bluetooth for soundbars. Wi-Fi offers more stable streaming, higher-quality audio, and the ability to connect with multiple devices or smart home systems.

Bluetooth is more convenient for quick pairing, but for consistent performance and better sound, Wi-Fi is the superior option.

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Final Word

We hope you’ve found our guide to the best soundbars helpful in finding the perfect audio upgrade for your setup. With so many great choices out there, it’s not easy to pick just one—but for us, the Samsung Q600C takes the top spot.

Its immersive sound, smart features, and easy setup make it a standout for movie lovers, gamers, and music fans alike. The Bose Solo Soundbar Series 2 and ULTIMEA Apollo S50 are also excellent options, offering impressive performance at different price points.

That said, not every product lived up to expectations. We suggest steering clear of the Arc Audio Cinema One—despite its sleek design, it suffers from unreliable connections, limited audio control, and an underwhelming user experience overall.

Already imagining your next movie night with crystal-clear sound? Or still weighing your options? Either way, we’d love to hear from you—drop your thoughts in the comments below!