Top Soundbars in 2026: Best Models for Every Budget

Explore the best soundbars of 2026, offering immersive sound quality and smart features tailored for every budget.

Why You Need a Quality Soundbar

Let’s face it: if you’ve splurged on a big-screen TV, the last thing you want is tinny, lackluster sound ruining your cinematic mood. That’s where a quality soundbar steps in. Unlike the weak built-in speakers on most TVs, soundbars house larger, forward-facing speakers that deliver crisp dialogue and richer immersion when you’re watching your favorite movies or shows.

What’s even better? These slim and sleek devices often fit neatly below your TV on a stand or can be mounted on a wall without taking up much space.

Some TVs might be fine without a soundbar, but many modern sets, especially budget-friendly ones, benefit hugely from an external audio upgrade. Soundbars generally fall into three camps: all-in-one units, those with a separate subwoofer, and full kits featuring subwoofers plus rear speakers for surround sound. The all-in-one options are perfect if you want minimal wires, subwoofer models deliver powerful bass without breaking the bank, and the full surround setups bring that authentic home theater vibe.

Over the years, we've tested countless soundbars, averaging more than 20 reviews annually. From elite Dolby Atmos 3D sound units to budget-friendly models that enhance dialogue clarity and add depth, we seek natural sound without overwhelming bass and where sound effects stand out distinctly. User-friendliness is a must, regardless of speaker count, and pricier models should include extras like wireless streaming and HDMI passthrough with 4K 120Hz support to justify their cost.

Sometimes, soundbars unlock special features with specific TVs—we check this out too—but our recommendations focus on the soundbar as a neutral upgrade, compatible with virtually any TV brand.

Best Overall Soundbar in 2026

1. Samsung HW-Q800F

The Soundbar for Most People

Specs:

• Dimensions: Soundbar 1110.7 x 60.4 x 120 mm; Subwoofer 249 x 251.8 x 249 mm
• Speaker Configuration: 5.1.2
• Power Output: 400W
• Connectivity: 1 HDMI input, 1 HDMI eARC, optical digital, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.3

Pros:

• Immersive, full-bodied sound
• Sleek, compact subwoofer design
• Excellent Dolby Atmos support

Cons:

• Lacks 4K 120Hz HDMI passthrough
• Design is functional but not flashy
• No rear speakers included

Perfect for you if:

• You want the best bang for your buck.
• You crave powerful, expansive sound with Dolby Atmos.

Maybe skip it if:

• You need 4K 120Hz passthrough for gaming consoles like the PS5.
• You’re hunting for a design statement piece.

What to know: The Samsung HW-Q800F is a mid-range gem in Samsung’s 2025 lineup, boasting a 5.1.2 speaker setup and 400W power. Its Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support produce powerful, spatial soundscapes that grab your attention. With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth streaming plus Samsung’s Q-Symphony feature (which blends sound from compatible Samsung TVs and the soundbar), it’s versatile. The only real downside is missing 4K 120Hz passthrough, a dealbreaker for hardcore gamers.

Sound Quality: Testing revealed impressive clarity, dialogue precision, and accurate sound positioning. Despite the smaller subwoofer, bass remains deep and punchy, filling rooms with authority. Dolby Atmos effects feel genuinely immersive without rear speakers.

Design: Sturdy and practical, the subwoofer is smaller and more elegant than predecessors without sacrificing power.

Value: Offering phenomenal performance and features for the price, the HW-Q800F beats competitors in its range in overall value.

Best Budget Soundbar

2. Sony HT-S2000

Specs:

• Dimensions: 800 x 64 x 124 mm
• Speaker Configuration: 3.1
• Power Output: 250W
• Connectivity: HDMI eARC x1, optical digital x1, USB x1, Bluetooth

Pros:

• Affordable
• Impressive sound quality
• Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X

Cons:

• Music streaming limited to Bluetooth only
• No voice assistant support

Ideal for:

• Those seeking an affordable sound upgrade.
• Fans wanting immersive virtual Dolby Atmos sound on a budget.

Not for:

• Next-gen console gamers needing 4K 120Hz passthrough.
• Users wanting a multi-room wireless music system (no Wi-Fi).

What to know: Sony’s HT-S2000 strikes a sweet spot between price, sound quality, and features. It lacks some connectivity finesse but delivers surprisingly good sound for its price, making it a solid TV sound upgrade.

Sound Quality: While not the biggest soundstage, virtual Dolby Atmos creates roomy, clear dialogue and solid bass, impressive for a 3.1 setup.

Design: Looks classier than its budget suggests, with a sturdy metal grille and clear remote feedback.

Value: At around $349, it’s tough to beat for sound quality at this price.

Best All-in-One Soundbar

3. Klipsch Flexus Core 300

Specs:

• Dimensions: 1371 x 76.2 x 127 mm
• Channels: 5.1.2
• Power: Not disclosed
• Connections: HDMI eARC, HDMI input (passthrough), optical digital, RCA mono output, USB-C, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi

Pros:

• Immersive, room-filling sound
• Dirac Live room correction
• HDMI passthrough

Cons:

• On the pricey side
• Large footprint
• Supports only Google Home for voice control

Consider if:

• You want uncompromised Dolby Atmos home theater sound from a single unit.
• You want sound tailored perfectly to your room with Dirac Live.

Skip if:

• Your room is small, since this is a big soundbar.
• You use Alexa or Apple HomeKit, as it only supports Google Home.

What to know: The Klipsch Flexus Core 300 offers a powerful 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos setup with options to expand to 7.1.4 adding wireless rear speakers and subs. It supports HDMI 2.1 with passthrough for 4K 120Hz, and Wi-Fi streaming through Tidal, Spotify Connect, AirPlay, or Google Cast. Dirac Live calibration sets it apart for sound quality.

Sound Quality: After Dirac calibration, bass tightens, vocals sharpen, and the soundstage becomes impressively clear and detailed.

Design: Large and fitting best with 65"+ TVs, it sports a bright LED display and a solid remote.

Value: Though $1,199 is a premium price, the performance and features, especially Dirac Live, make it worth it.

Best Dolby Atmos Soundbar

4. Samsung HW-Q990F

Specs:

• Dimensions: 1232 x 70.8 x 138 mm
• Channels: 11.1.4
• Power: Not disclosed
• Connections: 1 HDMI output (eARC), 2 HDMI 2.1 inputs, optical audio, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

Pros:

• Immersive, dynamic surround sound
• Powerful bass with fine detail
• Compact yet capable subwoofer

Cons:

• Expensive
• Dim front LED display
• Minor upgrade over previous model

Buy if:

• You want a fully enveloping Atmos experience.
• You want a compact subwoofer that packs a punch.

Avoid if:

• You’re on a budget.
• You already own the previous Q990D model.

What to know: This high-end bar boasts 23 speakers over 11.1.4 channels, including a subwoofer and two rear speakers. It delivers immersive, intense sound with 4K 120Hz passthrough for gamers.

Sound Quality: Dolby Atmos tracks come alive with crystal-clear dialogue and powerful, controlled bass. Samsung’s Q-Symphony further enhances sound on compatible TVs.

Design: Matte gray-blue finish keeps it understated but premium. The subwoofer’s new compact shape is easier to place.

Value: While pricey, the Q990F justifies its cost with robust performance. If cost is a concern, consider the Q990D or budget Hisense AX5125H.

Best Budget Dolby Atmos and Surround Sound

5. Hisense AX5125H

Specs:

• Size: Soundbar 920 x 478 x 90 mm
• Channels: 5.1.2
• Power: 180W
• Connectivity: HDMI output (eARC), 1 HDMI input, optical, USB, 3.5mm AUX

Pros:

• True Dolby Atmos surround sound
• Clear dialogue and punchy bass
• Outstanding value

Cons:

• No Wi-Fi music streaming
• No EQ app for sound adjustments
• Rear satellites may struggle with complex soundscapes

Buy if:

• You want real Atmos channels, not just virtual effects.
• You want a full surround kit on a tight budget.

Skip if:

• You want high-quality music playback (Bluetooth only).
• You like tweaking EQ settings extensively.

What to know: Hisense AX5125H packs a 5.1.2 Atmos setup with wireless sub and rear speakers for under $350—an unbeatable deal for true surround sound.

Sound Quality: Clear dialogue and immersive effects impress, though Bluetooth limits music streaming quality. Rear speakers sometimes struggle on aggressive mixes.

Design: Build quality is basic but decent, with metal grills and an LED display for clear feedback.

Value: A phenomenal value for a real Atmos system, even if it’s not audiophile-grade.

Best Super Budget Surround Sound

6. Ultimea Poseidon D50

Specs:

• Dimensions: 400 x 70 x 90 mm
• Channels: 5.1
• Power: 320W
• Connections: HDMI ARC, optical, AUX, USB, Bluetooth 5.3

Pros:

• Decent overall sound
• Very affordable
• Easy setup

Cons:

• No Dolby Atmos or DTS:X
• Cheap-looking design
• Occasional tinny sound

Buy if:

• You want surround sound on a shoestring.
• You prefer a plug-and-play approach without apps.

Skip if:

• You want premium sound quality.
• You care about sleek, modern style.

What to know: Ultimea Poseidon D50 delivers 5.1 channel surround at a bargain basement price. Though simple, it punches above its weight for clarity and presence.

Sound Quality: Surprisingly clear dialogue and immersive effects for the price, even without Atmos. Movie scenes like “Top Gun: Maverick” benefit from the 3D plane sounds.

Design: Basic but functional, with Bluetooth streaming and three sound modes: Cinema, Dialogue, and Music.

Value: For under $150, it’s hard to beat for a full surround experience.

Best Ultra Budget Soundbar

7. Sony HT-SF150

Specs:

• Dimensions: 900 x 64 x 88 mm
• Channels: 2.0
• Power: Not specified
• Connectivity: HDMI, optical, USB, Bluetooth 4.2

Pros:

• Solid sound quality
• Well-built
• Very affordable

Cons:

• Not ideal for music
• Fuzzy display
• No manual bass or treble control

Buy if:

• You want an inexpensive but decent soundbar.
• You appreciate good build quality in a budget model.

Skip if:

• You need Dolby Atmos support (not included).
• You want a soundbar optimized for music.

What to know: Sony HT-SF150 is a simple 2.0 bar offering respectable sound and solid construction at a wallet-friendly price.

Sound Quality: Clear speech with effective virtual surround processing; bass is adequate though not earth-shattering.

Design: One of the sleekest options in the budget category, with faux-leather textured top and clean speaker grille.

Value: At around $129, it’s a great choice for first-time soundbar buyers.

Best Premium for LG TVs

8. LG S95TR

Specs:

• Dimensions: Soundbar 1250 x 63 x 135 mm; Subwoofer 200 x 407 x 403 mm
• Channels: 9.1.5
• Power Output: 810W
• Connectivity: HDMI eARC, HDMI 2.1 input, optical digital, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

Pros:

• Full, enveloping spatial sound
• Powerful and detailed output
• Includes gaming features and 4K 120Hz passthrough

Cons:

• Expensive
• Basic LED display
• Some features require app use

Buy if:

• You want immersive Dolby Atmos home theater sound.
• You own an LG TV to unlock extra features.

Skip if:

• Space is tight.
• You want a budget-friendly option.

What to know: LG S95TR combines convenience and power with 9.1.5 channels and AI room calibration, delivering a cinematic experience.

Sound Quality: Vivid, immersive Atmos and DTS:X with 810W output capable of powerful volumes.

Design: Simple and clean with wedge-shaped rear speakers; lacks a full LED display, relying on minimal indicators.

Value: Pricied at $1,499, its performance justifies the cost for LG TV owners.

Best Compact Dolby Atmos Soundbar

9. Bose Smart Soundbar

Specs:

• Dimensions: 694 x 56 x 102 mm
• Channels: 3.0.2
• Power: Not specified
• Connectivity: HDMI, Optical, Bluetooth, USB, subwoofer out, IR

Pros:

• Compact, stylish design
• True Dolby Atmos with upward-firing speakers
• Great streaming options
• Personal Surround Sound feature

Cons:

• Only one HDMI port
• Limited bass
• Pricey

Ideal for:

• Those wanting premium Bose sound in a compact package.
• Users craving genuine Dolby Atmos.

Not ideal for:

• Those wanting a full surround system.
• Budget-conscious buyers.

What to know: The Bose Smart Soundbar delivers real upward-firing Atmos speakers and supports AirPlay 2 and Chromecast.

Sound Quality: Clear dialog and dynamic sound; app offers EQ and level controls.

Design: Sleek and small, perfect for smaller rooms and screens.

Value: Great performance for its size and price.

Best Versatile Soundbar

10. JBL Bar 1300MK2

Specs:

• Size: Soundbar 1030 x 58 x 136 mm; Subwoofer 315 x 277 x 275 mm
• Channels: 11.1.4
• Power: 2470W
• Connectivity: 1 HDMI eARC, 3 HDMI inputs, optical, USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.3

Pros:

• Massive power and bass
• Superb Dolby Atmos performance
• Detachable wireless surround speakers

Cons:

• Expensive
• No 4K 120Hz HDMI passthrough
• Appearance is understated

Buy if:

• You want serious Dolby Atmos drama.
• You want wireless rear speakers without wires.

Skip if:

• You’re a gamer needing 4K 120Hz passthrough.
• You want a budget soundbar.

What to know: With 2470W output and detachable rears that recharge on the main bar, this system offers flexibility and power.

Sound Quality: Room-shaking bass, crisp dialogue, and immersive Atmos soundtracks.

Design: Wide soundbar; compact, sleek subwoofer; detachable surrounds add convenience.

Value: Premium price around $1,699 but competitive with top rivals.

Best for Future Expansion

11. Sonos Arc Ultra

Specs:

• Dimensions: 1178 x 75 x 110.6 mm
• Channels: 9.1.4
• Power: Not specified
• Connections: HDMI (eARC), Bluetooth, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Sonos multi-room

Pros:

• Rich, clear sound
• Excellent Dolby Atmos effects
• Compact for performance

Cons:

• No DTS-HD/DTS:X support
• No HDMI passthrough

Buy if:

• You want big, cinematic sound with great dialogue clarity.
• You want a system expandable with Sonos speakers and subs.

Skip if:

• You need DTS:X or high-res formats.
• You want HDMI passthrough to preserve TV ports.

What to know: Sonos Arc Ultra shines with its expandable ecosystem and high-quality sound in a compact form.

Sound Quality: Features a unique "Sound Motion" subwoofer delivering surprising bass without an external sub.

Design: Relatively wide, suited for 55" and larger TVs.

Value: Pricied under $1000, it offers solid performance.

Best for Wall Mounting

12. Samsung HW-QS700F

Specs:

• Dimensions: 1160 x 51 x 120 mm
• Channels: 3.1.2
• Power: 350W
• Connectivity: HDMI input/output, Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, AirPlay, optical, wireless Dolby Atmos

Pros:

• True multi-position design
• Sounds great whether wall-mounted or on a stand
• Soundbar and subwoofer blend well

Cons:

• No rear speakers included
• Minor sound differences between modes

Buy if:

• You want a versatile soundbar for any setup.
• You want better sound than your TV’s built-in speakers.

Skip if:

• You want full surround sound with rear speakers.

What to know: HW-QS700F automatically adjusts speaker configuration using gyroscopes, making it perfect for wall or tabletop use.

Sound Quality: Impressively powerful and detailed for the price.

Design: Sleek with automatic sound profile adjustments.

Value: A tempting choice considering features and sound quality.

Best for PC Desktops

13. Creative Stage Pro

Specs:

• Size: 115 x 265 x 420 mm
• Channels: 2.1
• Power: 160W
• Connections: USB-C, HDMI ARC, optical, Bluetooth

Pros:

• Affordable
• Near/far listening modes
• Good port selection

Cons:

• Subtle sound modes
• Limited features

Buy if:

• You want a soundbar that works for both TV and desktop.
• You want a subwoofer without overspending.

Skip if:

• You want top-tier sound.

What to know: Compact and practical, this 2.1 soundbar is great for small spaces and dual use with computers and TVs.

Sound Quality: Surprisingly loud with solid bass and clarity for such a small setup.

Design: Compact and user-friendly, perfect for desks.

Value: Excellent for the price, especially for those wanting a subwoofer.

How to Choose the Best Soundbar

Picking a soundbar comes down to a few key factors:

• Size: Measure your TV and space. Big bars like Sonos Arc Ultra suit large TVs (65"+), while smaller bars fit tight areas better.
• Dolby Atmos: This tech creates immersive 3D sound. The catch? Expect to pay more for Atmos support, so decide if that’s worth it.
• Connections: HDMI is preferred for high-res audio like Dolby Atmos. Look for HDMI ARC or eARC ports on your TV to connect your soundbar.
• HDMI Passthrough: Handy if your TV has few HDMI ports—lets you plug consoles into the soundbar, which sends video to the TV.

How much to spend?

Expect $800+ for top features, but lots of fantastic budget options exist under $400, some even under $100. Generally, you get what you pay for.

Placement?

Wall mount for sleekness or under TV on a stand. Taller bars might block IR sensors on TVs when wall-mounted, so keep that in mind.

Brand Matching?

Not necessary; most soundbars work with any TV thanks to universal HDMI and optical connections. However, matching brands (like Samsung or LG) can unlock bonus features like Q-Symphony or Wow Orchestra, which blend TV and soundbar speakers for richer sound.

FAQ

• What’s the advantage of Dolby Atmos soundbars? They create immersive, 3D sound that seems to come from all around you, enhancing movies and games.
• Can soundbars really replace full surround systems? High-end surround soundbars with rear speakers can come close, but true surround systems still offer the fullest experience.
• Do I need HDMI eARC for best sound? Yes, HDMI eARC supports higher audio bandwidth for formats like Dolby Atmos.
• Are wireless rear speakers reliable? Most modern systems use stable wireless tech, but placement and interference can affect performance.
• Is it worth upgrading from TV speakers? Absolutely. Even basic soundbars dramatically improve dialogue clarity and bass depth.

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