Good sound doesn’t have to cost a lot. Soundbars offer an easy way to upgrade your TV’s audio without breaking the bank. These slim speakers sit below or in front of your TV and deliver better sound than built-in TV speakers, making movies, shows, and games more enjoyable.
Budget soundbars pack surprising quality into affordable packages. For less than $200, you can get clearer dialogue, better bass, and a more immersive experience. Many budget models now include features once found only in expensive units, like Bluetooth connectivity and different sound modes.
When shopping for a budget soundbar, focus on sound quality, size, and connectivity. Sound quality matters most – look for clear dialogue and decent bass. Make sure the soundbar fits your space and TV. Check if it has the right connections for your devices, like HDMI, optical, or Bluetooth. We spent weeks testing fifteen budget soundbars to find the ones that deliver the best sound for the money.
Best Budget Soundbars
We tested dozens of affordable soundbars to find options that deliver impressive audio without emptying your wallet. Our top picks offer clear dialogue, decent bass, and simple setup features at prices that won’t break the bank. These budget-friendly soundbars will instantly upgrade your TV’s sound quality without the premium price tag.
VIZIO V-Series Compact Soundbar
We found this budget-friendly 24-inch soundbar offers impressive sound quality and easy setup that makes it a smart buy for anyone looking to upgrade from TV speakers.
Pros
- Rich, room-filling sound from a compact design
- Quick setup with included HDMI cable
- Bluetooth connectivity for music streaming
Cons
- Bass could be stronger without a subwoofer
- Limited customization options
- Button controls are basic
The VIZIO V-Series 2.0 Compact Soundbar surprised us with its performance right out of the box. Setting it up took just minutes – we connected the included HDMI cable to our TV’s ARC port, plugged in the power cord, and we were ready to go. Its slim, 24-inch design fits nicely under smaller TVs without taking up much space.
Sound quality is where this budget soundbar really shines. We noticed dialog became much clearer and easier to understand compared to our TV’s built-in speakers. The DTS Virtual technology creates a wider soundstage that makes action movies and sports feel more immersive. While watching movies, sounds seemed to come from all around the room despite this being just a 2.0 channel system.
We appreciated the different preset modes that optimize sound for different content. The dialogue mode works great for news and talk shows, while the movie mode adds depth to films. Bluetooth connectivity is another bonus that let us stream music directly from our phones. For under $100, this VIZIO soundbar delivers remarkable value. It won’t replace a higher-end system with a separate subwoofer, but it’s an excellent upgrade for anyone tired of tinny TV audio.
Sony S100F Soundbar
The Sony S100F offers surprisingly good sound quality for its budget price point, making it an excellent choice for anyone wanting to upgrade their TV audio without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Clear, room-filling sound in a slim design
- Easy setup with HDMI ARC or optical connection
- Bluetooth connectivity for music streaming
Cons
- No separate subwoofer for deep bass
- Sound can be slightly tinny at higher volumes
- Limited equalizer options
We recently tested the Sony S100F in our living room, and for a budget soundbar, it packs quite a punch. The slim design fits perfectly under our TV without taking up much space. At just 2.5 inches tall, it doesn’t block the TV’s IR sensor like some bulkier models we’ve tried.
Sound quality is where this Sony really stands out in the budget category. The 2.0 channel system with bass reflex speaker delivers clear dialogue that makes watching movies much more enjoyable. We noticed a big difference when watching shows with quiet conversations – the voice enhancement feature really helps make whispered lines audible without cranking up the overall volume.
Setup couldn’t be easier. We connected it to our TV with the included HDMI cable, and it worked right away. The remote is simple to use, though we found we could control basic functions with our TV remote thanks to the HDMI ARC connection. Bluetooth pairing was quick too – we streamed music from our phones within minutes of unboxing.
For movies, the S-Force Pro Front Surround technology creates a wider soundstage than you’d expect from such a compact unit. While it doesn’t match true surround systems, it’s a massive upgrade from built-in TV speakers. At 120 watts, it fills our medium-sized room nicely without distortion at normal listening levels.
The wall-mounting option is a nice touch if you’re short on space. We placed ours on our TV stand, but the included mounting template would make installation straightforward for anyone wanting a cleaner look.
Polk Audio Signa S2
The Polk Audio Signa S2 soundbar offers exceptional value with its rich sound quality, easy setup, and versatile connectivity options that make it a top pick for budget-conscious shoppers.
Pros
- Crystal clear dialogue with VoiceAdjust technology
- Wireless subwoofer provides impressive bass
- Ultra-slim design fits almost anywhere
Cons
- Remote control is basic
- Bass can be overwhelming at high volumes
- Limited EQ adjustment options
We recently tested the Polk Audio Signa S2 in our living room, and we were immediately impressed by how much this affordable soundbar upgrades the TV watching experience. Standing just over 2 inches tall, it easily fits under most TVs without blocking the remote sensor or screen.
Setup couldn’t be simpler. We had it connected to our TV in under five minutes using the included HDMI cable. The wireless subwoofer paired automatically with the soundbar as soon as we plugged it in. No complicated configurations or endless menu navigation—just plug and play.
Sound quality is where this budget soundbar really shines. While watching movies, we noticed dialogue was crisp and clear thanks to Polk’s VoiceAdjust technology. The wireless subwoofer adds depth to explosions and sound effects without overwhelming the room. We also enjoyed streaming music from our phones through Bluetooth, which worked flawlessly up to about 30 feet away.
The included remote is straightforward but gets the job done. We found ourselves using the “Movie” mode most often for balanced sound, but “Music” mode also performs well for Spotify sessions. At higher volumes, the bass can sometimes feel a bit much, but at normal listening levels, the sound balance is excellent.
For the price, we think this soundbar delivers audio quality that rivals systems costing twice as much. The combination of easy setup, good sound, and the included wireless subwoofer makes the Polk Audio Signa S2 an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade from built-in TV speakers without breaking the bank.
MZEIBO Mini Sound Bar
This compact 50-watt soundbar delivers impressive audio quality and versatility at a budget-friendly price that makes it a smart choice for anyone looking to upgrade from built-in TV speakers.
Pros
- Crystal-clear sound with surprisingly good bass for its size
- Compact 17-inch design fits in tight spaces
- Multiple connection options (ARC, Optical, AUX, Bluetooth 5.0)
Cons
- Volume could be louder for very large rooms
- No separate subwoofer for deeper bass
- Remote control feels somewhat basic
We recently set up this MZEIBO soundbar in our testing space and were quickly impressed by how much punch this little unit packs. At just 17 inches long, it fits perfectly under smaller TVs or on desktops without taking up much space. The matte black finish looks sleek and blends well with most setups.
Sound quality exceeded our expectations for a budget option. The four built-in speakers deliver clear dialogue and decent bass response that makes movies much more enjoyable. We tested it with action films and noticed significant improvement over TV speakers, especially during explosive scenes. The three audio modes (Movie, Music, and Dialogue) actually make a noticeable difference – we found ourselves using Dialogue mode for news and talk shows, while Movie mode added depth to films.
Connection was a breeze – we tried both the HDMI ARC and Bluetooth options and both worked without any fuss. The included cables are a nice touch that saves an extra trip to the store. While it won’t replace a full surround sound system, this soundbar hits the sweet spot for bedroom TVs, dorm rooms, or smaller living spaces. The 36-month warranty provides good peace of mind, making this an even better value for budget-conscious shoppers.
Assistrust 60W Soundbar
This budget-friendly soundbar delivers impressive audio quality and versatility that punches well above its price point.
Pros
- Detachable design with multiple placement options
- Three customizable EQ modes for different content
- Simple setup with multiple connection methods
Cons
- Lacks deep bass without a subwoofer
- Remote doesn’t include batteries
- Some connection issues with older TVs
We tested the Assistrust soundbar in our living room setup and were pleasantly surprised by its performance. The 60W output creates a much fuller sound than most TV speakers, making movie dialogue crisp and clear. Its unique detachable design lets you split it into two separate units or use it as one long bar.
The three EQ modes actually make a noticeable difference. Music mode added warmth to our Spotify playlists, while movie mode widened the soundstage for action scenes. News mode brought speech forward during talk shows. Switching between them using the included remote was quick and easy.
Setup took just minutes with the optical cable, though we also tried the Bluetooth connection with good results. The auto volume boost feature was helpful during late-night viewing when we didn’t want loud explosions waking the kids. For the price, this soundbar offers great value with its flexible placement options and solid sound quality that will satisfy most budget-conscious shoppers.
Bose TV Speaker
The Bose TV Speaker delivers clear dialogue and improved TV sound in a compact design that’s perfect for budget-conscious shoppers who don’t want to sacrifice quality.
Pros
- Crystal clear dialogue enhancement
- Super simple setup with minimal cables
- Compact size fits almost anywhere
Cons
- Limited bass without additional subwoofer
- No surround sound capabilities
- Higher price than some budget competitors
We tested the Bose TV Speaker in our living room setup, and were immediately impressed by how such a small soundbar could make such a big difference. At just over 2 inches tall, this sleek black bar barely takes up any space but delivers sound that’s worlds better than built-in TV speakers.
Setup couldn’t be easier. We connected it to our TV with the included optical cable, plugged it in, and were enjoying better audio within minutes. The remote is straightforward with dedicated buttons for dialogue mode (which works incredibly well for news and talk shows) and bass adjustment. We found ourselves using dialogue mode frequently during movies with quiet conversations.
The sound quality surprised us for a budget soundbar. While it won’t replace a full surround system, voices come through with remarkable clarity thanks to the center tweeter. Music sounds good too – we streamed some playlists via Bluetooth, and the speaker filled our medium-sized room nicely. The bass is adequate for most TV watching, though action movie fans might want to consider adding Bose’s optional subwoofer for more impact.
For the price, this soundbar delivers exceptional vocal clarity and overall sound improvement. We appreciate that it works with our existing TV remote through HDMI-CEC, turning on and off with the TV automatically. This small but mighty speaker proves you don’t need a complicated audio setup to dramatically improve your TV watching experience.
Samsung C450 Soundbar
The Samsung C450 offers impressive sound quality and features at a budget-friendly price that will upgrade your TV audio experience without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Powerful bass with included wireless subwoofer
- Easy Bluetooth connectivity with compatible TVs
- Special sound modes for movies, games, and night listening
Cons
- Mid-range audio quality could be better
- Subwoofer size may be too large for small spaces
- Some users report connectivity issues with non-Samsung TVs
We tested the Samsung C450 soundbar in our living room and were immediately impressed by how simple it was to set up. The 2.1 channel system comes with a wireless subwoofer that paired automatically with the main unit. We just plugged everything in, connected to our TV via HDMI, and were ready to go in minutes.
The sound quality is surprisingly good for a budget option. While watching action movies, the DTS Virtual feature created a more spacious sound that made explosions and car chases feel more immersive. The subwoofer adds nice depth to bass sounds, and you can boost it even more with the dedicated Bass Boost button on the remote.
We really liked the Adaptive Sound Lite feature which made dialogue clearer during quieter scenes. This came in handy when watching shows with lots of talking. The Game Mode was also a nice touch – when we played some console games, the directional audio helped us track enemy movements better. Night Mode proved useful for late-night viewing without disturbing others in the house.
The remote control is simple to use, though we found ourselves using our Samsung TV remote most of the time since it controls both devices. Bluetooth connectivity worked well for streaming music from our phones. At this price point, the C450 offers great value with features usually found in more expensive soundbars.
VIZIO 5.1 Soundbar SE
We think the VIZIO 5.1 Soundbar SE is a must-buy for anyone wanting cinema-quality sound without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Impressive Dolby Atmos and DTS 3D audio
- Complete 5.1 setup with wireless subwoofer and two surround speakers
- Easy setup with HDMI eARC connection
Cons
- No remote control included
- Occasional audio dropouts
- Limited connection options
After testing the VIZIO 5.1 Soundbar SE in our living room, we were blown away by the sound quality for the price. The system creates true surround sound with its three main speakers, wireless subwoofer, and two satellite speakers. Movies and shows suddenly came alive with rich, room-filling audio.
The wireless subwoofer packs a punch despite its compact size. Bass notes hit with just the right amount of power without overwhelming the rest of the audio. We found this especially good for action movies and music with deep bass lines. The surround speakers placed behind our couch created a genuine theater-like experience.
Setup was mostly simple through the HDMI eARC connection. One odd choice is that VIZIO doesn’t include a remote – you’ll need to use your TV remote or download the VIZIO app to control it. The app works fine but sometimes takes a few tries to connect. We noticed occasional sound dropouts lasting 10-15 seconds, which was annoying during crucial movie scenes.
The 96dB output filled our medium-sized living room perfectly. The Dolby Atmos feature adds height to the soundstage, making rain, helicopters, and other overhead sounds truly feel like they’re coming from above. For under $200, this soundbar system offers tremendous value for anyone wanting to upgrade from flat TV speakers.
Hisense 2.1 Soundbar
This budget-friendly Hisense soundbar delivers impressive audio quality and powerful bass that will transform your TV viewing experience without emptying your wallet.
Pros
- Powerful 240W output with deep bass from wireless subwoofer
- Simple setup with included HDMI cable and Bluetooth connectivity
- Multiple EQ modes for different content types
Cons
- Voice clarity could be better for dialogue
- Startup voice announcement is quite loud
- Basic sound quality compared to higher-end models
We recently tested the Hisense 2.1 channel soundbar, and it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their TV audio without spending a fortune. The slim profile doesn’t take up much space, but don’t let that fool you – this 240W system packs a serious punch.
Setting it up was a breeze. The included HDMI cable connected directly to our TV’s ARC port, and the wireless subwoofer paired automatically. No complicated wiring or lengthy setup process required. We were watching a movie with dramatically improved sound in under 10 minutes.
The sound quality impressed us for this price point. The wireless subwoofer adds deep, rumbling bass that makes action movies and music come alive. We enjoyed switching between the six EQ modes depending on what we were watching – the Movie mode added drama to films, while Music mode balanced the sound nicely for our playlists streamed via Bluetooth.
DTS Virtual technology creates a more immersive sound field than we expected from a 2.1 system. While it can’t match a true surround setup, it definitely expands the audio beyond the TV’s built-in speakers. For movies and shows, it creates a wider soundstage that pulls you into the action.
The remote makes it easy to adjust volume and bass levels separately. This is handy when watching late at night – we could turn down the booming subwoofer while keeping dialogue audible. Speaking of which, dialogue clarity is decent but not perfect, which is common in budget soundbars without a dedicated center channel.
For anyone upgrading from TV speakers, this Hisense soundbar represents excellent value. It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of premium models, but it delivers where it counts: better, louder, more immersive sound that will transform your entertainment experience without breaking the bank.
Saiyin 2.1 Sound Bar with Subwoofer
The Saiyin soundbar delivers impressive audio quality at a budget-friendly price point, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their TV’s sound without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Versatile setup options (single bar or tower speakers)
- Rich bass from the 5.25-inch subwoofer
- Multiple connectivity options including Bluetooth 5.3
Cons
- ARC connection occasionally unreliable
- Audio quality good for price but not premium
- Limited surround sound effect compared to higher-end models
We recently tested the Saiyin soundbar with subwoofer and were quite pleased with its performance. The 24-inch bar produces clear dialogue that makes TV shows much easier to follow compared to built-in TV speakers. When watching action movies, the 5.25-inch subwoofer added nice depth to explosions and chase scenes without overwhelming our small living room.
Setting up the system took just minutes. We appreciated the included optical cable and quick start guide. The unique feature that caught our attention was the ability to use it as either a traditional soundbar or split it into tower speakers. We tried both setups and found the tower option created a slightly wider soundstage that worked well in our space.
The remote control is a nice bonus, offering easy adjustment of bass and treble levels plus three EQ modes for different content types. Music mode worked great for Spotify streaming via Bluetooth, while Movie mode added extra punch to our weekend film nights. At this price point, we think most buyers will be happy with the sound quality and features. The Fire TV compatibility was also helpful, letting us control both devices with one remote.
Saiyin 2.1 Soundbar with Subwoofer
This budget-friendly soundbar delivers impressive audio quality with a powerful subwoofer at a price that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Powerful bass from dedicated subwoofer
- Multiple connection options (Bluetooth, Optical, AUX)
- Helpful LED indicators and three sound modes
Cons
- Remote not compatible with universal TV remotes
- Subwoofer connects via wire, not wireless
- Some users report audio sync issues
We tested the Saiyin 2.1 soundbar system in our living room and were immediately impressed by the audio quality for the price. The main soundbar puts out 40 watts while the separate subwoofer adds another 30 watts of rich bass that really filled our space. Music sounds clear and movies have that extra punch that built-in TV speakers just can’t deliver.
The colored LED indicators are actually quite useful – purple for optical, blue for Bluetooth, and green for auxiliary connections. We found switching between modes simple, and the volume progress bar helps you know exactly how loud you’re going. The three equalizer modes (news, movie, music) make a noticeable difference depending on what you’re watching.
Setup took us less than 10 minutes including wall mounting. The package includes everything needed – cables, mounting hardware, and a simple remote. We connected via optical cable to our TV for the best sound quality, though Bluetooth worked well for streaming music from our phones. At this price point, it’s hard to find fault with the Saiyin soundbar system – it’s a solid upgrade from TV speakers without spending hundreds more on premium brands.
Saiyin Compact Soundbar
This budget-friendly 17-inch soundbar delivers impressive audio quality and versatile connectivity options that make it an excellent choice for small spaces.
Pros
- Compact design perfect for small rooms
- Multiple connection options (Bluetooth, optical, AUX)
- Fire TV remote compatibility
Cons
- Bass could be stronger without external subwoofer
- Limited surround sound effect
- Plastic construction feels somewhat lightweight
We recently tested the Saiyin 17-inch soundbar in our living room, and we were pleasantly surprised by its performance. Despite its compact size, this little powerhouse pumps out 40 watts of clear audio that easily fills a small to medium-sized room. The sleek black design blends nicely with most TV setups without taking up much space.
Setup took us less than five minutes. We simply connected the optical cable to our TV, plugged in the power, and we were ready to go. The included wall mounting kit is a nice touch for those looking to save desk space. Switching between different input modes is simple with the “M” button on the soundbar or the included remote.
The sound quality exceeded our expectations for the price point. While testing movies, we found the “Movie” EQ mode added depth to action scenes, though it can’t compete with systems that include a separate subwoofer. Music playback was clear with decent mids and highs. The “News” mode makes dialogue much easier to understand during TV shows. We appreciate the SUB OUT port that allows adding a subwoofer later if you want more bass.
Bluetooth connectivity worked flawlessly with our smartphones up to about 30 feet away. One feature we particularly liked was the compatibility with Fire TV remotes, which helped reduce remote clutter in our living room. For anyone looking to upgrade from built-in TV speakers without breaking the bank, this Saiyin soundbar offers remarkable value.
VIZIO V-Series 2.1 Soundbar
This affordable VIZIO soundbar delivers impressive audio quality and convenient features that make it an excellent choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
Pros
- Powerful bass from the wireless subwoofer
- Easy setup with HDMI ARC connection
- Compact design fits most TV setups
Cons
- Occasional connectivity issues with Bluetooth
- Limited EQ customization options
- Remote control feels somewhat flimsy
We recently tested the VIZIO V-Series 2.1 Home Theater Sound Bar in our living room, and we were genuinely surprised by its performance at this price point. The setup process took just minutes – we simply connected it to our TV using the included HDMI cable, plugged in both units, and we were ready to go.
The sound quality exceeded our expectations for a budget soundbar. When watching action movies, the wireless subwoofer added impressive depth to explosions and dramatic scenes. The bass response isn’t overwhelming in smaller rooms, but it gives enough punch to enhance the viewing experience. Music playback was equally enjoyable, with clear vocals and decent separation between instruments.
We found the Bluetooth connectivity particularly useful for streaming music from our phones. Though we did experience occasional dropouts when walking between rooms, the connection was generally stable. The included remote control works well for basic adjustments, and we appreciated the different sound modes for movies, music, and gaming. While audiophiles might want more customization options, most users will find this VIZIO soundbar delivers great value and a significant upgrade from built-in TV speakers.
LG 4.1ch Soundbar
This budget-friendly LG soundbar delivers impressive surround sound with wireless components that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Complete 4.1 system with wireless subwoofer and rear speakers
- Simple setup with minimal wiring
- Bluetooth connectivity for multiple devices
Cons
- Bass can be slightly overwhelming at times
- Occasional Bluetooth connection drops
- WiFi interference issues reported by some users
We recently tested the LG S40TR soundbar system in our living room, and we were shocked by how much sound quality you get for the price. The slim main unit sits neatly under our TV while the wireless subwoofer and rear speakers created true surround sound with minimal cables. This is rare to find at this price point.
Setting everything up took us less than 15 minutes. The wireless subwoofer paired automatically, and we only needed to connect the power cords. The rear speakers do require a cable between them, but no wires run to the front of the room. We appreciated the included optical cable that connected directly to our TV.
The sound quality exceeded our expectations for a budget system. Movies had depth and impact, especially action scenes where the subwoofer added real punch. We did notice the bass can be a bit heavy at default settings, but the LG Soundbar App let us easily adjust the equalizer to find the right balance. For around-the-house music listening, switching to Bluetooth was quick, though we experienced occasional connection drops every 30 minutes or so.
Controls are straightforward using either the included remote or our TV remote through the WOW Interface. Voice clarity in dialogue-heavy shows was noticeably improved with the Clear Voice Plus feature. For anyone wanting better sound without spending a fortune, this LG system delivers impressive performance and features that would typically cost much more.
Yamaha SR-B30A Soundbar
The Yamaha SR-B30A delivers impressive sound quality with Dolby Atmos at a budget-friendly price that makes it perfect for anyone wanting to upgrade their TV audio without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Built-in subwoofers eliminate need for extra components
- Clear Voice feature makes dialogue easy to understand
- Simple one-cable setup with included HDMI cable
Cons
- Sound quality diminishes when sitting off-center
- Bass not as powerful as separate subwoofer systems
- App control could use interface improvements
We recently tested the Yamaha SR-B30A in our living room, and we were impressed by how quickly we got it up and running. The single-body design with built-in subwoofers means no extra components cluttering our space. We simply connected it to our TV with the included HDMI cable, and we were enjoying better sound within minutes.
The Dolby Atmos support really makes a difference when watching movies. During action scenes, we could hear sounds moving around us in a way that made us feel more immersed in the content. The Clear Voice feature is a standout, especially when watching news or dialogue-heavy shows. We noticed a significant improvement in speech clarity compared to our TV’s built-in speakers.
For music lovers, the Bluetooth streaming works well for casual listening. We played various music genres through the soundbar, and while it won’t replace a dedicated music system, it delivers rich, room-filling sound that’s perfect for everyday use. The Bass Extension feature adds some depth to music and movies, though the built-in subwoofers can’t match the impact of a separate unit. For the price point, we think most budget-conscious shoppers will be very satisfied with this Yamaha soundbar’s performance and features.
Puxinat 2-in-1 Detachable Soundbar
This versatile soundbar offers excellent value with its unique split design and multiple connection options for budget-conscious buyers.
Pros
- Innovative detachable design works as single bar or separate speakers
- Multiple connection options (HDMI, Optical, Bluetooth 5.0)
- Comes with all necessary cables and accessories
Cons
- Some TVs require manual audio output adjustment
- Bass could be stronger at higher volumes
- Setup may confuse first-time soundbar users
We were immediately impressed by the Puxinat soundbar’s clever 2-in-1 design. The ability to use it as a single unit or split it into two tower speakers gives flexibility most budget soundbars lack. This feature came in handy when we needed to save space on our entertainment center.
Sound quality exceeds what you’d expect at this price point. The dual built-in subwoofers provide decent bass, while the tweeters deliver clear dialogue during movies. We tested it with action scenes and music, finding the 10 EQ modes helpful for different content types. The remote made switching between these modes simple.
Connection was a breeze with the included HDMI ARC cable. We also tried the Bluetooth 5.0 connection with our phones, which worked flawlessly from across the room. The package includes every cable you might need – optical, coaxial, AUX, and even RCA adapters. Wall mounting hardware is also included if you prefer that setup option.
While testing with streaming services, we did need to adjust some sound settings on our TV as the instructions suggested. The volume gets plenty loud for medium-sized rooms. Overall, this soundbar delivers impressive performance considering its budget price tag.
Buying Guide
Choosing a budget soundbar doesn’t have to be hard. We’ve put together some tips to help you find the best one for your needs.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is the most important feature to consider. Look for soundbars with clear dialogue and good bass response. Many budget options now offer surprisingly good sound.
A 2.0 channel system works for basic needs. For a more complete experience, consider a 2.1 system that includes a subwoofer.
Size and Fit
Make sure the soundbar fits your space. Measure your TV stand or wall area before buying.
The soundbar width should match or be slightly smaller than your TV. A 30-40 inch soundbar works well for most TVs between 40-65 inches.
Connectivity Options
| Connection Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| HDMI ARC | Easiest setup, best quality |
| Optical | Good quality, works with older TVs |
| Bluetooth | Wireless music streaming |
| Wi-Fi | Smart features, multi-room audio |
More connection options mean more flexibility. HDMI ARC lets you control the soundbar with your TV remote.
Extra Features
Some helpful features to look for:
- Wall-mounting capability
- Remote control
- Preset sound modes (movie, music, news)
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Voice enhancement for clearer dialogue
Price Range
We recommend setting a budget between $80-$200 for a good quality budget soundbar. Spending less often means poor sound, while the benefits diminish beyond this range for most users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many shoppers have common questions when looking for budget soundbars. We’ve gathered the most asked questions to help you make a smart choice.
What are the top-rated budget soundbars with subwoofers currently on the market?
The Vizio V-Series 2.1 stands out as a top choice with its wireless subwoofer at around $180. It delivers deep bass that makes movies more exciting.
The Polk Audio Signa S2 ($199) offers excellent value with its wireless subwoofer and clear sound profile. Many users praise its bass response during action scenes.
Samsung’s HW-T550 ($199-$249) includes a wireless subwoofer that produces room-filling bass. Its Game Mode makes it popular with gamers on a budget.
How do inexpensive soundbars compare to high-end models in terms of audio quality?
Budget soundbars ($100-$300) provide a huge upgrade from TV speakers but lack some refinement of premium models. Most people can’t tell the difference during casual viewing.
High-end models ($500+) offer better sound separation, clearer highs, and more balanced audio. They often include additional speakers and advanced audio processing.
The sweet spot is often in the $200-$300 range, where you get 80% of the premium experience at 40% of the cost. The TCL Alto 8i at $199 proves this point well.
Which budget soundbars offer the best performance for enhancing dialogue clarity?
The Roku Streambar ($129) features a dedicated dialogue enhancement mode that makes voices stand out clearly. Its compact size works well in smaller rooms.
JBL Bar 2.0 ($149) includes a “Speech” mode that boosts the mid-range frequencies where voices live. This makes it ideal for news, talk shows, and dialogue-heavy movies.
Yamaha SR-C20A ($149) offers “Clear Voice” technology specifically designed to enhance speech. Many users with hearing difficulties find this feature particularly helpful.
Can you recommend a budget-friendly soundbar that supports Dolby Atmos?
The TCL Alto 8i ($199) is our top Atmos pick under $200. It uses audio processing to simulate height channels without actual upward-firing speakers.
Vizio M-Series M51ax-J6 ($329) provides true Atmos with dedicated upward-firing speakers. This creates a more authentic overhead sound experience.
Sony HT-G700 ($499) uses advanced digital processing to create virtual Atmos effects that sound surprisingly close to more expensive systems with physical height channels.
What are the best soundbars available for under $500 that deliver high-quality music playback?
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 ($449) tops our list for music with rich, balanced sound and excellent stereo separation. Its app lets you fine-tune audio for different music genres.
Bose TV Speaker ($279) delivers exceptional mid-range clarity that makes vocals and instruments shine. Its small size hides impressive musical capabilities.
Klipsch Cinema 400 ($299) uses horn-loaded tweeters for crisp highs that bring life to cymbals and string instruments. Its powerful subwoofer handles bass lines well.
Are there budget soundbars that provide a surround sound experience similar to more expensive units?
The JBL Bar 5.1 ($499) includes detachable wireless rear speakers that create true surround sound. When not needed, they reconnect to the main bar for charging.
Vizio V-Series 5.1 ($249) offers a complete surround package with wireless rear speakers and a subwoofer. This creates an immersive experience at a fraction of premium costs.
Samsung HW-A650 ($399) uses acoustic beam technology to bounce sound off walls, creating virtual surround effects. This works well in smaller, rectangular rooms.
