Not long ago, I was firmly convinced that no soundbar could match the audio quality of good home theater speakers paired with an amplifier. It seems the soundbar industry took that challenge to heart, as today's soundbar systems have transformed the landscape of home audio, offering impressive sound quality without the complexities of a full home theater setup. From high-powered Dolby Atmos systems to compact, all-in-one solutions, there's a soundbar to meet every need and preference.
With such a wide array of soundbar options available, the challenge now lies in finding the perfect match for your personal audio preferences. As a tech journalist who has tested and reviewed numerous soundbars, I've compiled a comprehensive list of the top soundbars you can find in 2025.
TL;DR: The Best Soundbars
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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 Buy1. Samsung HW-Q990D
Best Overall
Our Top Pick### Samsung HW-Q990D
3See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at SamsungProduct SpecificationsChannels11.1.4Sound support Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS: XConnectivityHDMI (ARC), optical audio, Bluetooth 5.2, Ethernet port, Wi-FiSize (WxHxD)48.5" x 2.7" x 5.4"Weight17lbsSamsung has truly outdone itself with the HW-Q990D. This flagship soundbar system is widely recognized as the best on the market, earning accolades from experts and enthusiasts alike, including those on the r/soundbars subreddit. The Q990D's 11 front-facing speakers, powerful subwoofer, and four up-firing drivers create a cinematic experience that's hard to beat. It delivers depth and impact in action scenes, clear dialogue, and immersive Dolby Atmos effects.
Beyond its exceptional sound quality, the Q990D is packed with advanced features. With built-in Wi-Fi, it supports Amazon Alexa, Google Chromecast, and Apple AirPlay. Samsung's proprietary SpaceFit Sound Pro adjusts the sound profile to your room, while Adaptive Sound enhances audio based on the scene, boosting dialogue during conversations and intensifying bass during action sequences. Additionally, HDMI 2.1 support enables 4K at 120Hz passthrough, enhancing your gaming experience.
One of the Q990D's advantages is its frequent sales, dropping its $2,000 retail price to more affordable levels. For immediate needs, Samsung's previous flagship, the HW-Q990C, offers similar audio performance at about $400 less, making it a cost-effective alternative.
Sonos Arc Ultra
Best Dolby Atmos Soundbar
### Sonos Arc Ultra
1See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at B&HProduct SpecificationsChannels9.1.4Sound supportDolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos (Dolby Digital Plus), Dolby Atmos*, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby AtmosConnectivityHDMI (ARC), optical audio, Bluetooth 5.3, Ethernet port, Wi-FiSize (WxHxD)46.38 x 2.95” x 4.35”Weight13.01lbsThe Sonos Arc Ultra takes the legacy of its predecessor, the Arc, and elevates it with a 9.1.4-channel configuration and 15 Class-D amplifiers. This soundbar introduces SoundMotion technology, which optimizes performance within its compact design. The Arc Ultra boasts double the bass output of the original Arc, creating a truly immersive experience.
The ".4" in its configuration enhances Dolby Atmos playback with four dedicated up-firing drivers, delivering overhead effects and a comprehensive soundstage without the need for additional rear speakers. My review of the Sonos Arc Ultra highlighted its excellent music reproduction and features like Speech Enhancement for clearer dialogue. While it integrates seamlessly into the Sonos ecosystem for whole-home audio, its value proposition doesn't quite match the Samsung HW-Q990D when considering the total cost of a complete home theater setup.
LG S95TR
Best for Bass
### LG S95TR
0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at LGProduct SpecificationsChannels9.1.5Sound supportDolby Atmos, Dolby Digital/Plus, DTS:X, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HDConnectivityHDMI eARC/ARC, digital optical input, 3.5mm auxiliary input, one 3.5mm stereo input, Bluetooth 5.2, Ethernet port, Wi-FiSize (WxHxD)45” x 2.5" x 5.3"Weight12.5lbsWhile not as immersive as the Samsung HW-Q990D, the LG S95TR holds its own with a robust soundstage powered by 17 drivers, including a dedicated center height channel. Its performance across the frequency spectrum is impressive, making it versatile for various content types.
The S95TR's bass is a standout feature, thanks to its hefty 22lb subwoofer, which adds depth and presence to action scenes and delivers punchy bass for music. LG's AI Room Calibration technology fine-tunes the sound to your room, and it supports Apple AirPlay, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant, making it a well-rounded high-end soundbar.
Vizio V21-H8
Best Cheap Soundbar
### Vizio V21-H8
0See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartProduct SpecificationsChannels2.1Sound supportDTS TruVolume, DTS Virtual:X, Dolby VolumeConnectivityHDMI (ARC), optical audio, Bluetooth 5.0Size (WxHxD)36" x 2.28" x 3.20"Weight4.6lbsFor those seeking quality sound on a budget, the Vizio V21-H8 offers a compelling option. Its simple setup and solid stereo sound enhance movies, TV shows, and music, though it lacks the immersion of a full surround system and a center channel for clear dialogue. The V21-H8 is perfect for those who want an immediate audio upgrade without breaking the bank.
Vizio M-Series 5.1.2
Best Surround Sound Value
### Vizio M-Series 5.1.2
0See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsChannels5.1.2Sound supportDTS:X, DTS Virtual:X, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital+ConnectivityHDMI (ARC), optical audio, BluetoothSize (WxHxD)35.98" x 2.24" x 3.54"Weight5.53lbsDespite its age, the Vizio M-Series 5.1.2 remains a top choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking a surround sound experience. Its sleek design houses detailed, distortion-free sound and a powerful 6-inch subwoofer. While it lacks Wi-Fi and requires wired rear speakers, its Dolby Atmos capabilities provide a commendable three-dimensional sound experience at a sub-$400 price point.
Sonos Beam
Best for Smaller Rooms
### Sonos Beam
0See it at AmazonSee it at SonosSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsChannels5.0Sound supportDolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos (Dolby Digital Plus), Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHDConnectivityHDMI (ARC), optical audio, Ethernet port, Wi-FiSize (WxHxD)25.63" x 2.68" x 3.94"Weight6.35lbsThe Sonos Beam is perfect for smaller spaces, delivering clear dialogue, vibrant highs, and satisfactory bass without a separate subwoofer. Its advanced processing creates phantom height channels for Dolby Atmos content, enhancing the audio experience in a compact package. The Beam integrates seamlessly with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple AirPlay 2, and can be expanded with other Sonos speakers for a more comprehensive setup.
How to Pick a Soundbar
Navigating the vast selection of soundbars can be overwhelming. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right one for your needs.
Soundbars vary in channel configurations to simulate surround sound. For basic TV viewing and music, a 2-channel setup with a subwoofer should suffice. A 3.1-channel soundbar includes a center speaker for enhanced dialogue, ideal for shows with lots of conversation. For movies and gaming, a 5.1-channel or higher setup provides a more immersive experience, often with additional speakers and subwoofers.
When selecting a soundbar, consider its connectivity options. HDMI ARC or eARC is standard and simplifies setup. Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity is essential for streaming from other devices, and compatibility with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri adds convenience.
For the latest in audio technology, look for soundbars with Dolby Atmos support, which offers virtual three-dimensional sound. Ensure the soundbar has up-firing drivers, a subwoofer, and rear speakers for the full effect. 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 have two channels (left and right) without a subwoofer, ideal for stereo sound in smaller spaces.2.1 Soundbars: These add a subwoofer (the “.1”) to the two channels, enhancing bass for movies, music, and gaming.5.1 Soundbars: These include five channels (front left, front center, front right, rear left, rear right) and a subwoofer, providing true surround sound, sometimes using additional speakers or virtual technology for immersion.### How do I know if a soundbar is compatible with my TV?
Most soundbars connect via HDMI ARC or optical audio cables. Ensure your TV has these ports to support most soundbars. Some also offer Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or AirPlay for additional connectivity options.
Do I need a subwoofer with my soundbar?
While not necessary, a subwoofer significantly enhances the audio experience by adding deep bass, particularly beneficial for action movies, music, and gaming. Many soundbars come with a built-in or wireless subwoofer for a richer sound without additional speakers.
What is Dolby Atmos, and do I need it?
Dolby Atmos is an advanced surround sound technology that adds height channels for a three-dimensional audio experience. While not essential, it greatly enhances the cinematic feel of movies and games.
Can I stream music through my soundbar?
Yes, many soundbars support Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to stream music from your smartphone or streaming services. Look for soundbars with Bluetooth, Chromecast, or AirPlay for seamless music streaming.
