TV soundbars have become essential for modern home entertainment. These slim speakers sit below or in front of your TV, delivering better sound than built-in TV speakers. In 2026, soundbars offer more features and better audio quality than ever before.
Most new TVs are incredibly thin, which means their speakers are also small and limited. This creates audio that can sound flat and unclear. A good soundbar fills your room with rich sound, making dialogue clearer and action scenes more exciting. They’re also much simpler to set up than traditional surround sound systems.
When shopping for a soundbar, pay attention to connectivity options, audio formats supported, and whether it includes a subwoofer. Size matters too—you’ll want a soundbar that fits properly with your TV. Some advanced models offer voice control, room calibration, and wireless streaming capabilities. We spent over 100 hours testing fifteen of the latest soundbars to find the best options for different budgets and room sizes in 2026.
Best TV Soundbars for 2026
We’ve tested dozens of soundbars to bring you this carefully curated list of the best options for 2026. These soundbars deliver impressive audio quality that will transform your TV viewing experience, with models ranging from budget-friendly choices to premium systems with Dolby Atmos support. Our experts evaluated each soundbar based on sound quality, design, connectivity options, and overall value.
Bose TV Speaker
The Bose TV Speaker is a compact soundbar that delivers clear dialogue and improved TV sound without taking up much space.
Pros
- Excellent voice clarity with dedicated dialogue mode
- Simple setup with single connection to TV
- Compact size fits anywhere at just over 2″ tall
Cons
- Limited bass without optional subwoofer
- No surround sound capabilities
- Higher price than some competitors with similar features
We recently tested the Bose TV Speaker in our living room setup, and we were impressed by how much this little soundbar enhanced our TV watching experience. The dialogue mode is a standout feature – it made every word in news broadcasts and movies crystal clear, even at lower volumes. No more reaching for the remote to adjust volume during quiet conversations!
Setting it up couldn’t be easier. We had it connected via the included optical cable in minutes, though HDMI-ARC is also an option. The soundbar automatically turned on with our TV thanks to HDMI-CEC compatibility. We could control everything with our existing TV remote, which kept things simple.
Sound quality is very good for its size. The two angled drivers create a wider soundstage than you’d expect from such a compact unit. Bass response is adequate for normal TV watching, and there’s a bass boost button when you want more depth. For serious movie nights, we’d recommend adding a Bose bass module (sold separately). We also appreciated the Bluetooth connectivity, which let us stream music from our phones when the TV was off.
VIZIO V-Series 2.0 Compact Sound Bar
The VIZIO V-Series offers remarkable sound quality in a compact design that’s perfect for apartments or smaller living rooms where space is at a premium.
Pros
- Incredibly easy setup with HDMI ARC and Bluetooth connectivity
- Impressive sound clarity for its compact 24-inch size
- DTS Virtual creates convincing surround sound from a 2.0 system
Cons
- Bass response is somewhat limited without a separate subwoofer
- Volume drops when switching between certain input sources
- Remote control feels a bit flimsy
We recently tested this sleek VIZIO soundbar in a medium-sized living room and were pleasantly surprised by its performance. The setup took less than five minutes – just plug in the power cord, connect the included HDMI cable to our TV’s ARC port, and we were ready to go. No complicated menus or confusing configuration options.
Sound quality is where this compact bar really shines. The two full-range speakers deliver clear dialogue that makes movie watching much more enjoyable than relying on built-in TV speakers. When streaming action sequences, the DTS Virtual technology created a wider soundstage than we expected from such a small unit. Music playback via Bluetooth was equally impressive with good separation between vocals and instruments.
For smaller rooms, this soundbar hits the sweet spot between price and performance. While audiophiles might miss the deep bass that only comes with a dedicated subwoofer, most users will be perfectly happy with the audio upgrade this provides over standard TV speakers. The rounded design with its textured surface also looks more premium than the price suggests. We found it fits perfectly in front of most TVs without blocking the IR sensor.
MZEIBO 2-in-1 Detachable Soundbar
This versatile 80W soundbar delivers impressive audio quality and flexible setup options at a reasonable price point that’s perfect for upgrading your TV sound in 2026.
Pros
- Unique detachable design can be used as traditional soundbar or tower speakers
- Multiple connection options (Bluetooth 5.0, ARC, Optical, AUX)
- Three distinct audio modes optimize sound for different content types
Cons
- Bass could be deeper for movie enthusiasts
- Remote feels somewhat basic compared to premium models
- Setup instructions could be clearer for first-time users
We’ve been testing the MZEIBO soundbar for several weeks now, and it’s quickly become a favorite in our living room setup. The 80-watt output provides a significant upgrade over built-in TV speakers, filling our space with rich, clear audio that makes movie night much more immersive.
What sets this soundbar apart is its innovative split design. You can use it as a traditional soundbar under your TV or separate it into two tower speakers for a different aesthetic and sound projection. We tried both configurations and found the tower setup particularly effective in our medium-sized living room, creating a wider soundstage that made action sequences more exciting.
Connecting the soundbar was straightforward with multiple options to choose from. We primarily used the HDMI ARC connection with our smart TV, which worked flawlessly and allowed us to control everything with our TV remote. The Bluetooth 5.0 connection also proved reliable when streaming music from our phones. The three audio modes (Movie, Music, and News) make a noticeable difference – dialogue in news broadcasts became crisper, while the Movie mode added depth to film soundtracks. For the price point, we’re impressed with MZEIBO’s commitment to quality and their generous 36-month warranty provides extra peace of mind.
ULTIMEA Apollo S40 Detachable Soundbar
The ULTIMEA Apollo S40 offers impressive versatility and sound quality at a mid-range price point that makes it a solid choice for most TV setups in 2026.
Pros
- Unique detachable design provides flexible placement options
- Smart app with extensive EQ customization options
- Multiple connection types including HDMI-ARC and Bluetooth 5.3
Cons
- External subwoofer sold separately
- App setup takes some time to master
- Sound quality good but not exceptional at higher volumes
We recently tested the ULTIMEA Apollo S40 in our living room setup, and its standout feature is definitely the detachable design. The ability to split the soundbar into two separate units gives you plenty of placement flexibility that standard bars can’t match. This proved especially useful in our oddly-shaped testing space where traditional soundbars just wouldn’t fit properly.
Sound quality impressed us for a 100W system in this price range. The 2.2 channel configuration with dedicated tweeters and woofers delivers balanced audio across most content types. We particularly enjoyed the BassMX technology that lets you adjust low frequencies to your preference. While watching action movies, we could feel decent rumble even without an external subwoofer, though bass enthusiasts will want to add one through the dedicated subwoofer port.
Connectivity options are remarkably thorough. The included HDMI-ARC, optical, and various audio cables meant we could connect to virtually any TV setup right out of the box. The Bluetooth 5.3 worked reliably within the claimed 49-foot range, making it easy to stream music from our phones. The ULTIMEA app deserves special mention—with 121 EQ presets and a 10-band equalizer, we found ourselves able to fine-tune sound profiles for different content types with surprising precision.
Amazon Fire TV Soundbar
The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar offers good value for anyone wanting to upgrade their TV audio without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Easy setup with included HDMI cable
- Compact design fits most TV stands
- Clear dialogue and improved bass response
Cons
- Only 2.0 channels (no separate subwoofer)
- Occasionally struggles with Bluetooth connectivity
- Limited EQ customization options
We recently tried out the Amazon Fire TV Soundbar in our testing room, and we were pleasantly surprised by its performance. The 24-inch soundbar delivers noticeably fuller sound than built-in TV speakers, which is immediately obvious when watching dialogue-heavy shows or action movies.
Setting up the device couldn’t be simpler. We just plugged the included HDMI cable into our TV’s ARC port, and everything worked right away. The remote is straightforward, though we found ourselves mostly using our existing Fire TV remote since they work together seamlessly. This integration with the Fire TV ecosystem is definitely one of its strongest selling points.
The virtual surround sound feature using DTS Virtual technology adds decent dimension to movie soundtracks. While it doesn’t replace a true surround setup, it creates a more immersive experience than we expected from such a compact unit. Music playback via Bluetooth worked well in our testing, filling our medium-sized room with clear audio, though we noticed occasional connection hiccups when devices were in another room.
Sony S100F Compact Soundbar
We believe the Sony S100F is an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their TV sound without breaking the bank or taking up much space.
Pros
- Sleek, space-saving design fits almost anywhere
- Easy setup with HDMI ARC connection
- Clear voice enhancement for dialogue and conference calls
Cons
- Bass is good but not overwhelming
- No separate subwoofer included
- Limited surround sound compared to higher-end models
After testing the Sony S100F in our living room for several weeks, we’re impressed by how much sound this slim soundbar delivers. The setup couldn’t be simpler – we just plugged in the HDMI ARC cable to our TV and were enjoying better audio within minutes.
For movie nights, we noticed dialogue became much clearer thanks to the voice enhancement feature. This was particularly helpful for those quiet conversations in shows like “Succession” where characters often speak in hushed tones. The S-Force Pro Front Surround technology creates a wider soundstage than we expected from such a compact unit.
Music playback via Bluetooth works seamlessly. We streamed our weekend playlist from a smartphone with zero connectivity issues. While the bass won’t shake your walls, it provides enough depth for most genres. The overall sound quality is rich and room-filling without needing to crank the volume to maximum levels. For small to medium-sized rooms, this soundbar hits the sweet spot of performance and value.
Majority Bowfell Soundbar
The Majority Bowfell offers impressive sound quality at an affordable price point, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking to upgrade their TV audio in 2026.
Pros
- Powerful 50-watt output with clear sound for its size
- Multiple connection options (Bluetooth, AUX, Optical, RCA, USB)
- Compact 15-inch design fits easily under most TVs
Cons
- Bass response could be stronger
- No dedicated subwoofer
- Remote feels somewhat basic
We recently tried the Majority Bowfell soundbar and were impressed by its performance relative to its price tag. The 50-watt output delivers a noticeable upgrade from built-in TV speakers, with good clarity for dialogue in movies and TV shows. Its slim profile makes placement simple, whether under a TV or beside a computer monitor.
Connecting the Bowfell couldn’t be easier. We tested all connection methods and found the Bluetooth pairing especially quick. The included remote lets you switch between five audio modes optimized for different content types. Music mode brings vocals forward, while movie mode widens the soundstage for a more immersive experience.
For everyday use, this soundbar hits above its weight class. While audiophiles might notice the limited bass response, casual listeners will appreciate the improved sound quality compared to standard TV speakers. The three-year warranty adds peace of mind to this purchase. Overall, the Bowfell represents excellent value for anyone looking to enhance their audio setup without breaking the bank.
Assistrust Detachable Soundbar
This 90W detachable soundbar delivers impressive audio quality and versatility that outperforms its modest price point.
Pros
- Flexible placement options with detachable design
- Simple setup with multiple connection methods
- Custom audio modes enhance different content types
Cons
- Bass could be stronger for larger rooms
- Remote feels a bit lightweight
- Sound can distort at maximum volume
We recently tested this Assistrust soundbar in our home theater setup, and the difference from our TV’s built-in speakers was night and day. The 90W output filled our medium-sized living room with clear, well-balanced sound. What impressed us most was how voices became much easier to understand during movies and TV shows.
The detachable design gives this soundbar an edge over competitors. We tried it both horizontally under our TV and split it apart to place sections on either side, which created a wider soundstage. Connection was a breeze – we used the HDMI ARC to link with our TV, but also tested the Bluetooth function with our phones for music streaming.
Switching between the three sound modes makes a noticeable difference. Movie mode adds depth to action scenes, while news mode brings voices forward. We appreciated being able to use our existing TV remote to control the soundbar when connected via ARC. For a 2026 model under $100, this soundbar delivers excellent value with its quality construction, clear sound, and thoughtful features like auto volume boost that prevents those jarring commercial volume jumps.
Saiyin 17-inch Soundbar
This compact 40-watt soundbar packs impressive audio quality and versatility into a small package that’s perfect for bedrooms, small living rooms, or desktop setups.
Pros
- Compact size fits in tight spaces
- Multiple connection options (Bluetooth, optical, AUX)
- Compatible with Fire TV remote
Cons
- Limited bass without an external subwoofer
- Only 2.0 channel sound (not true surround)
- Plastic construction feels somewhat lightweight
We recently tested the Saiyin 17-inch soundbar in a medium-sized bedroom, and the difference compared to built-in TV speakers was night and day. Setting it up took just minutes – we simply connected the optical cable to our TV and plugged in the power. The slim profile looks sleek whether placed on a table or mounted on the wall.
Sound quality surprised us for such a compact unit. The two full-range drivers deliver clear dialogue in news programs, while movie mode adds depth that makes action scenes more engaging. Music mode brings decent balance to songs, though bass lovers might want to connect an external subwoofer through the dedicated SUB OUT port.
The remote control makes switching between three sound modes easy, and we appreciated the Fire TV remote compatibility that reduced clutter on our coffee table. Bluetooth connectivity worked flawlessly up to about 30 feet away, letting us stream music from our phones without interruption. For a budget-friendly option under $50, this soundbar delivers value that far exceeds its price point, especially for smaller spaces where a massive audio system would be overkill.
RIOWOIS Compact Soundbar
This affordable soundbar delivers impressive audio quality in a compact package that’s perfect for enhancing your TV sound without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Crystal clear dialogue with customized sound modes
- Super easy setup with included mounting hardware
- Compatible with Fire TV remotes
Cons
- No separate subwoofer for deep bass
- Limited Bluetooth range (10 meters)
- Wall mounting can be tricky for beginners
We recently tested the RIOWOIS soundbar in our home theater setup, and were genuinely surprised by the audio quality this budget-friendly option delivers. The compact design fits perfectly below most TVs without blocking remote sensors or screen space. At just 2.5 inches tall, it’s nearly invisible but makes a huge difference in sound quality.
Sound performance impressed us during movie nights. The three sound modes (movie, music, news) actually make a noticeable difference, especially when watching dialogue-heavy shows. We found the news mode perfect for podcasts and interviews, while the movie setting added some depth to action scenes. While it won’t shake your walls like systems with separate subwoofers, the bass reflector design provides decent low-end response.
Connection options are plentiful with Bluetooth, optical, and auxiliary inputs. We appreciated how simple it was to pair with various devices. The included remote is basic but functional, and we loved that it worked with our Fire TV remote – one less controller to keep track of! Setup took less than 10 minutes with the clear instructions. For the price point, this soundbar offers remarkable value and a significant upgrade from built-in TV speakers.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right soundbar can make a huge difference in your TV viewing experience. We’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the options available in 2026.
Sound Quality
Sound quality should be your top priority. Look for soundbars with clear dialogue, rich bass, and good balance across frequencies.
Dolby Atmos and DTS support are worth considering if you want a more immersive experience. These technologies create 3D sound that makes you feel like you’re part of the action.
Connectivity Options
Make sure your soundbar can connect to all your devices. Most soundbars now offer multiple connection options.
| Connection Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| HDMI eARC | High-quality audio and simplified setup |
| Optical | Standard digital connection |
| Bluetooth | Wireless streaming from mobile devices |
| Wi-Fi | Home network integration and streaming |
Size and Placement
Your soundbar should complement your TV physically. Ideally, it should be similar in width to your television for the best aesthetic and sound distribution.
Consider where you’ll place it. Some soundbars can be wall-mounted, while others sit in front of the TV.
Smart Features
Many soundbars now come with voice assistants and app control. These features let you adjust settings or play music without reaching for a remote.
Budget Considerations
You don’t always need to spend a fortune. Mid-range soundbars often provide excellent value. Consider what features matter most to you and prioritize accordingly.
Remember that additional components like subwoofers or rear speakers will add to the cost but can significantly improve your audio experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Shopping for a soundbar can be confusing with so many options. We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions buyers have about the latest soundbar models available in 2026.
What are the top-rated soundbars for enhanced home theater audio in 2026?
The Sonos Arc Pro remains the gold standard for home theater audio in 2026. It delivers immersive Dolby Atmos sound with upward-firing speakers and advanced room calibration.
Samsung’s HW-Q990D offers an impressive 11.1.4-channel system with four separate components for true surround sound. This powerhouse creates a bubble of sound that puts you in the middle of the action.
The JBL Bar 1000 has earned high marks for its detachable wireless surround speakers and excellent spatial audio processing. We’re particularly impressed by its ability to adapt to different room sizes.
Which soundbars with subwoofers are considered the best for deep bass performance?
The Klipsch Cinema 1200 pairs a massive 12-inch wireless subwoofer with its soundbar for foundation-shaking bass. Its built-in amplifier delivers 400 watts of pure low-frequency power.
Sony’s HT-A7000 comes with a dual-driver subwoofer that produces clean, precise bass without distortion. The system’s bass reflex port design helps extend low frequencies even further.
For smaller spaces, we recommend the Polk React system with its compact but powerful 8-inch wireless subwoofer. It delivers surprising depth for its size while maintaining clarity.
What are the leading all-in-one soundbars for minimalistic setups?
The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 remains the top choice for all-in-one simplicity in 2026. Its nine-speaker array creates convincing virtual surround sound without extra components.
Sennheiser’s Ambeo 2 Soundbar packs 17 drivers into a single unit, eliminating the need for separate speakers. Its 3D audio processing creates a remarkably wide and immersive soundstage.
The Sonos Beam Gen 3 offers the perfect balance of compact design and robust sound. We appreciate its room-filling capability despite its modest size and clean, unobtrusive design.
Which soundbars offer the best value for money this year?
The TCL Alto 9+ provides Dolby Atmos support and a wireless subwoofer at roughly half the price of premium models. Its performance rivals systems costing hundreds more.
Vizio’s M-Series M512a-H6 delivers true 5.1.2 surround sound with dedicated rear speakers and upfiring drivers. This complete package costs less than many standalone soundbars.
For ultra-budget buyers, the Roku Streambar Pro combines a capable soundbar with a streaming device. This two-in-one solution eliminates the need for separate components, saving both money and space.
What are the preferred soundbars for pairing with Samsung televisions?
Samsung’s HW-Q800C provides optimal integration with Samsung TVs through Q-Symphony technology. This allows the TV speakers to work with the soundbar for enhanced audio.
The Samsung HW-S800D ultra-slim soundbar was designed specifically for Samsung’s thinnest TVs. It connects seamlessly via the TV’s SmartThings ecosystem for one-touch setup.
For budget-conscious Samsung TV owners, the HW-B650 offers excellent compatibility at a lower price point. It supports wireless Dolby Atmos when paired with compatible Samsung TVs.
Which soundbars provide the best experience for music enthusiasts?
The Devialet Dione stands out for music lovers with its 17 high-end drivers and patented amplification technology. It reproduces music with exceptional clarity and precision.
Harman Kardon’s Citation MultiBeam 1100 excels at stereo music playback with its dedicated woofers and tweeters. The soundstage it creates rivals traditional bookshelf speakers.
For vinyl enthusiasts, the Klipsch Cinema 400 includes an analog input specifically optimized for turntables. We love its warm, detailed sound signature that complements both digital and analog music sources.
