Not long ago, I believed that no soundbar could match the audio quality of good home theater speakers paired with an amplifier. It seems, however, that manufacturers like Samsung, Sonos, and LG took this challenge to heart. Today, soundbar systems have transformed the landscape of home audio, offering exceptional sound quality without the complexities of a full 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 plethora of soundbar options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. As a tech journalist who has tested and reviewed numerous soundbars, I've compiled a comprehensive list of the best soundbars for 2025 to help you find the perfect fit for your home.
TL;DR: The Best Soundbars
Our Top Pick
Samsung HW-Q990D
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LG S95TR
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Vizio V21-H8
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Vizio M-Series 5.1.2
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Sonos Beam
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1. Samsung HW-Q990D
Best Overall
Our Top Pick
Samsung HW-Q990D
3 See it at Amazon See it at Best Buy See it at Samsung
Product Specifications
- Channels: 11.1.4
- Sound support: Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS: X
- Connectivity: HDMI (ARC), optical audio, Bluetooth 5.2, Ethernet port, Wi-Fi
- Size (WxHxD): 48.5" x 2.7" x 5.4"
- Weight: 17lbs
Samsung's HW-Q990D stands out as the gold standard in soundbar systems, earning accolades from both experts and enthusiasts alike. This flagship model boasts 11 front-facing speakers, a robust subwoofer, and four up-firing drivers, delivering a cinematic experience that's both immersive and impactful. Whether it's action-packed scenes, crystal-clear dialogue, or the enveloping effects of Dolby Atmos, the Q990D excels in every aspect.
Beyond its stellar audio performance, the Q990D is packed with advanced features. With built-in Wi-Fi, it supports Amazon Alexa, Google Chromecast, and Apple AirPlay. Samsung's SpaceFit Sound Pro adjusts the sound profile to your room's acoustics, while Adaptive Sound optimizes audio based on the content, enhancing voices during key dialogue and amplifying bass during action sequences. Additionally, the system supports HDMI 2.1 for 4K at 120Hz passthrough, enhancing your gaming experience.
While the Q990D retails for $2,000, it frequently goes on sale, offering significant savings. For those looking for an immediate solution, the previous model, HW-Q990C, offers similar audio quality at a $400 discount, making it a cost-effective alternative.
2. Sonos Arc Ultra
Best Dolby Atmos Soundbar
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Product Specifications
- Channels: 9.1.4
- Sound support: Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos (Dolby Digital Plus), Dolby Atmos*, Dolby TrueHD
- Connectivity: HDMI (ARC), optical audio, Bluetooth 5.3, Ethernet port, Wi-Fi
- Size (WxHxD): 46.38 x 2.95” x 4.35”
- Weight: 13.01lbs
The Sonos Arc Ultra builds on the success of its predecessor, the Arc, with an enhanced 9.1.4-channel configuration and 15 Class-D amplifiers. It's the first Sonos product to feature SoundMotion technology, optimizing performance within the soundbar's compact design. The Ultra boasts double the bass output of the original Arc, providing a powerful listening experience.
The Arc Ultra's four dedicated up-firing drivers excel at creating overhead effects, delivering an immersive Dolby Atmos experience without the need for additional rear speakers. My review of the Arc Ultra highlighted its excellent music playback and features like Speech Enhancement, which prioritizes dialogue. Additionally, it seamlessly integrates with other Sonos speakers for a whole-home audio solution. While it doesn't top our list due to its higher cost when fully equipped, the Arc Ultra remains a top choice for Dolby Atmos enthusiasts.
3. LG S95TR
Best for Bass
LG S95TR
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Product Specifications
- Channels: 9.1.5
- Sound support: Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital/Plus, DTS:X, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD
- Connectivity: HDMI eARC/ARC, digital optical input, 3.5mm auxiliary input, one 3.5mm stereo input, Bluetooth 5.2, Ethernet port, Wi-Fi
- Size (WxHxD): 45” x 2.5" x 5.3"
- Weight: 12.5lbs
While it may not match the immersion of the Samsung HW-Q990D, the LG S95TR offers a compelling alternative with its 17 drivers, including a dedicated center height channel. It delivers a well-balanced soundstage that excels across various content types, from movies to music.
The S95TR's bass performance is particularly noteworthy, thanks to its 22lb subwoofer. Whether you're watching action-packed films or enjoying music, the S95TR's bass adds depth and presence to every scene. Its AI Room Calibration technology ensures optimal sound tuning for your space, and compatibility with Apple AirPlay, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant adds to its appeal as a high-end soundbar.
4. Vizio V21-H8
Best Cheap Soundbar
Vizio V21-H8
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Product Specifications
- Channels: 2.1
- Sound support: DTS TruVolume, DTS Virtual:X, Dolby Volume
- Connectivity: HDMI (ARC), optical audio, Bluetooth 5.0
- Size (WxHxD): 36" x 2.28" x 3.20"
- Weight: 4.6lbs
For those seeking a budget-friendly option, the Vizio V21-H8 offers solid stereo sound in a compact package. While it doesn't provide the immersive experience of a full surround system and lacks a center channel for clear dialogue, it significantly enhances your TV's audio output.
The V21-H8's simplicity is its strength, with minimal features like bass and treble controls and various sound modes. It's an ideal set-it-and-forget-it solution for those looking to upgrade their TV's sound without breaking the bank.
5. Vizio M-Series 5.1.2
Best Surround Sound Value
Vizio M-Series 5.1.2
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Product Specifications
- Channels: 5.1.2
- Sound support: DTS:X, DTS Virtual:X, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital+
- Connectivity: HDMI (ARC), optical audio, Bluetooth
- Size (WxHxD): 35.98" x 2.24" x 3.54"
- Weight: 5.53lbs
Despite its age, the Vizio M-Series 5.1.2 remains a fantastic value for a surround sound system. With a sleek design and a 6-inch subwoofer, it delivers detailed, distortion-free sound that's surprisingly loud and well-balanced out of the box.
As a Dolby Atmos soundbar, it provides a commendable three-dimensional audio experience, thanks to its up-firing drivers. While it lacks Wi-Fi support and requires wired rear speakers, the M-Series 5.1.2 offers an excellent bang-for-your-buck option in the sub-$400 range.
6. Sonos Beam
Best for Smaller Rooms
Sonos Beam
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Product Specifications
- Channels: 5.0
- Sound support: Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos (Dolby Digital Plus), Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD
- Connectivity: HDMI (ARC), optical audio, Ethernet port, Wi-Fi
- Size (WxHxD): 25.63" x 2.68" x 3.94"
- Weight: 6.35lbs
The Sonos Beam is a compact powerhouse, perfect for smaller rooms. It offers clear dialogue, vibrant highs, and decent bass without a separate subwoofer. The Beam uses advanced processing to create phantom height channels for Dolby Atmos content, enhancing the audio experience in a small package.
Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple AirPlay 2, the Beam integrates seamlessly into smart home ecosystems. It can be paired with other Sonos speakers for surround sound or additional bass, making it an excellent starting point for those looking to expand their audio setup gradually.
How to Pick a Soundbar
Choosing the right soundbar can be challenging, but here's some guidance to help you make an informed decision.
Soundbars come in various channel configurations to simulate surround sound. For casual TV viewing and music, a 2-channel soundbar with a subwoofer might suffice. If dialogue clarity is crucial, a 3.1-channel soundbar with a dedicated center speaker is ideal. For a more immersive experience with movies and games, opt for a 5.1-channel or higher system, which often includes additional speakers and subwoofers.
When evaluating soundbars, consider their 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, and Siri can enhance your experience.
For the latest in sound technology, look for soundbars with Dolby Atmos support, which provides a three-dimensional audio experience. Ensure your chosen model includes up-firing drivers, a subwoofer, and rear speakers for the best results. Other notable formats like DTS:X and Sony's 360 Reality Audio are also worth considering.
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, suitable for stereo sound in smaller spaces. 2.1 Soundbars: These add a subwoofer 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, delivering surround sound with either additional speakers or virtual surround technology.
How do I know if a soundbar is compatible with my TV?
Most modern soundbars connect to TVs via HDMI ARC or optical audio cables. Ensure your TV has one of these ports. Some soundbars also support Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or AirPlay for additional streaming and connectivity options.
Do I need a subwoofer with my soundbar?
While not mandatory, a subwoofer significantly enhances the audio experience by adding deep bass, ideal for action movies, music, and gaming. Many soundbars come with a built-in or wireless subwoofer for rich 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 can greatly enhance the cinematic experience.
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 models with Bluetooth, Chromecast, or AirPlay support if music streaming is important to you.
