Not long ago, I was firmly convinced that no soundbar could rival the audio quality of good home theater speakers paired with an amplifier. However, it appears that Samsung, Sonos, LG, and other key players in the soundbar industry took my skepticism as a challenge. Today's soundbar systems have transformed the landscape, offering unparalleled audio quality without the need for a complex home theater setup. From high-powered Dolby Atmos systems to sleek, all-in-one solutions, there's a soundbar to meet every need and preference.
With the vast array of soundbar options now available, selecting the perfect one for your setup can feel overwhelming. As a tech journalist who has tested and reviewed numerous soundbars over the years, I've curated a comprehensive list of the best soundbars you can find in 2025 to help you make an informed decision.
TL;DR: The Best Soundbars
Our Top Pick### Samsung HW-Q990D
3See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Samsung
### Sonos Arc Ultra
1See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at B&H
### LG S95TR
0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at LG
### Vizio V21-H8
0See it at AmazonSee it at Walmart
### Vizio M-Series 5.1.2
0See it at Amazon
### Sonos Beam
0See it at AmazonSee it at SonosSee it at Best Buy
1. Samsung HW-Q990D
Best Overall
Our Top Pick### Samsung HW-Q990D
3See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Samsung
Samsung has hit the jackpot with the HW-Q990D. This flagship soundbar system is widely acclaimed as the top soundbar on the market, lauded by experts and enthusiasts alike on platforms like the r/soundbars subreddit. The Q990D boasts 11 front-facing speakers, a powerful subwoofer, and four up-firing drivers that work together to deliver a cinematic experience. Whether it's the depth and impact of action scenes, the clarity of dialogue, or the immersive effects of Dolby Atmos, the Q990D excels in every aspect.
Beyond its exceptional audio quality, the Q990D is packed with advanced features. With built-in Wi-Fi, it supports Amazon Alexa and Google Chromecast, as well as Apple AirPlay. Samsung's proprietary technologies like SpaceFit Sound Pro adjust the sound profile to your room, while Adaptive Sound optimizes audio for different scenes, enhancing dialogue during conversations and boosting bass in action sequences. The system also supports HDMI 2.1, allowing for 4K at 120Hz passthrough, which enhances the gaming experience.
A significant advantage of the Q990D is its frequent sales, making it more affordable than its $2,000 retail price. If you need an immediate solution, the previous flagship, the HW-Q990C, offers similar audio performance for around $400 less, providing a cost-effective alternative.
2. Sonos Arc Ultra
Best Dolby Atmos Soundbar
### Sonos Arc Ultra
1See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at B&H
The Sonos Arc Ultra, the successor to the acclaimed Sonos Arc, pushes the boundaries of soundbar technology even further. Featuring a 9.1.4-channel configuration and 15 Class-D amplifiers, it's a significant upgrade from the original Arc. The Arc Ultra introduces SoundMotion technology, designed to maximize performance within the soundbar's compact design. Sonos claims it has double the bass output of its predecessor, and my side-by-side comparison confirmed this impressive enhancement.
The ".4" in the Arc Ultra's configuration is crucial for its Dolby Atmos capabilities. With four dedicated up-firing drivers, it creates a comprehensive soundstage that envelops you in Dolby Atmos content. Even without rear speakers, the Arc Ultra delivers a truly immersive experience.
In my review of the Sonos Arc Ultra, I was impressed by its ability to deliver high-quality music playback and features like Speech Enhancement, which clarifies dialogue. The Arc Ultra also integrates seamlessly into the Sonos ecosystem, allowing for whole-home audio setups. While it doesn't offer the same value as the Samsung HW-Q990D when fully expanded, the Arc Ultra remains a top choice for Dolby Atmos enthusiasts.
3. LG S95TR
Best for Bass
### LG S95TR
0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at LG
While the LG S95TR may not match the Samsung HW-Q990D in overall immersion, it's a formidable soundbar system with its own strengths. With 17 drivers, including a dedicated center height channel and up-firing speakers, the S95TR delivers a balanced soundstage that excels across various content types.
The S95TR's bass performance is particularly noteworthy. Whether it's the explosive action in Marvel movies or Game of Thrones, the 22lb subwoofer adds depth and presence to every scene. It's equally adept at handling music, delivering punchy bass for pop and country tracks, and deep lows for bass-heavy genres.
The S95TR is equipped with advanced technology such as AI Room Calibration, which fine-tunes the sound to your space. It also supports Apple AirPlay, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant, making it a versatile and feature-rich high-end soundbar.
4. Vizio V21-H8
Best Cheap Soundbar
### Vizio V21-H8
0See it at AmazonSee it at Walmart
For those seeking a budget-friendly soundbar, the Vizio V21-H8 offers an appealing solution. This compact system provides solid stereo sound, enhancing movies, TV shows, and music. While it lacks the immersive qualities of a full surround system and a dedicated center channel for dialogue, the V21-H8 still delivers a significant audio upgrade.
The V21-H8 is remarkably straightforward, lacking Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Dolby Atmos. Its simplicity is its strength, offering basic controls for bass and treble, subwoofer adjustments, and sound modes. If you're looking for an uncomplicated soundbar that improves upon your TV's built-in speakers without breaking the bank, the V21-H8 is an excellent choice.
5. Vizio M-Series 5.1.2
Best Surround Sound Value
### Vizio M-Series 5.1.2
0See it at Amazon
Despite its age, the Vizio M-Series 5.1.2 remains a top value for a surround sound system. Its design has evolved to a sleeker, more premium look, and it delivers detailed, distortion-free sound. The 6-inch subwoofer can get impressively loud, though you may need to adjust the bass for optimal balance.
As a Dolby Atmos soundbar, the M-Series 5.1.2 offers exceptional value in the sub-$400 range. While it can't compete with higher-end models like the Sonos Arc Ultra or Samsung HW-Q990D, its up-firing drivers create a commendable three-dimensional sound experience. The effectiveness can vary based on room size and ceiling height, but overall, it provides a solid Dolby Atmos experience.
The main drawbacks are the lack of Wi-Fi and the need for wired rear speakers. However, the M-Series 5.1.2's value proposition remains compelling.
6. Sonos Beam
Best for Smaller Rooms
### Sonos Beam
0See it at AmazonSee it at SonosSee it at Best Buy
The Sonos Beam is the perfect soundbar for smaller spaces. Despite its compact size, it delivers clear dialogue, vibrant highs, and decent bass, even without a separate subwoofer. The Beam uses advanced processing to create phantom height channels, enhancing the Dolby Atmos experience.
Like its larger counterpart, the Beam offers compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple AirPlay 2, making it an excellent choice for smart home integration. It can be easily expanded with other Sonos speakers, such as the Sonos One for surround sound or a subwoofer for added bass. The Beam is an ideal entry point into the Sonos ecosystem, offering great sound for small rooms and the potential for future upgrades.
How to Pick a Soundbar
With so many soundbars on the market, choosing the right one can be challenging. Here are some tips to guide your decision:
Soundbars come in various channel configurations, simulating surround sound. For basic TV viewing and music listening, a 2-channel soundbar with a subwoofer may suffice. A 3.1-channel soundbar, with a dedicated center speaker, is ideal if you struggle to hear dialogue in shows like Severance or Succession.
For movies and gaming, consider a 5.1-channel or higher soundbar. These systems often include additional speakers and subwoofers for a more immersive experience, although some all-in-one soundbars can deliver impressive sound without extra components.
When selecting a soundbar, consider its connectivity options. Most modern soundbars and TVs use HDMI ARC (or eARC), simplifying audio setup. Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity is essential for streaming from other devices. If you use voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri, ensure the soundbar is compatible.
For the latest in sound technology, look for a soundbar with Dolby Atmos support. Dolby Atmos provides virtual three-dimensional sound, transforming your room into a theater. Ensure the soundbar has up-firing drivers, a subwoofer, and rear speakers for the best experience. Other notable sound formats include DTS:X and Sony's 360 Reality Audio.
Best Soundbars FAQs
What’s the difference between 2.0, 2.1, and 5.1 soundbars?
2.0 Soundbars: These feature two channels (left and right) without a subwoofer, ideal for stereo sound in smaller spaces or general TV viewing.
2.1 Soundbars: These include two channels plus a subwoofer, enhancing depth and bass for movies, music, and gaming.
5.1 Soundbars: These have five channels (front left, front center, front right, rear left, rear right) and a subwoofer, delivering surround sound. Some models use additional speakers or virtual surround technology for an immersive experience.
How do I know if a soundbar is compatible with my TV?
Most modern soundbars connect to TVs via HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) or optical audio cables. Ensure your TV has one of these ports to accommodate most soundbars. Some soundbars also support Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or AirPlay for additional streaming and connectivity options.
Do I need a subwoofer with my soundbar?
A subwoofer isn't necessary, but it can significantly enhance the audio experience by adding deep bass. If you enjoy action movies, music, or gaming, a subwoofer can make a substantial difference. Many soundbars come with a built-in or wireless subwoofer, providing rich sound without the need for multiple speakers.
What is Dolby Atmos, and do I need it?
Dolby Atmos is an advanced surround sound technology that adds height channels, creating a three-dimensional audio experience. While not essential, Dolby Atmos can greatly enhance the cinematic feel of your viewing.
Can I stream music through my soundbar?
Yes, many soundbars offer Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to stream music from your smartphone or favorite streaming service. Look for soundbars with Bluetooth, Chromecast, or AirPlay if music streaming is a priority for you.
