Not long ago, I was convinced that no soundbar could match the audio quality of a well-set-up home theater with dedicated speakers and an amplifier. However, Samsung, Sonos, LG, and other soundbar manufacturers have taken that challenge to heart, and today’s soundbar systems have truly transformed the way we experience sound. Whether you're looking for a high-powered Dolby Atmos setup or a compact all-in-one solution, there's a wide range of options that cater to various preferences and needs.
With so many choices, the next question is: how do you pick the soundbar that aligns best with your personal taste? As a tech journalist who has tested and reviewed numerous soundbars, I've curated a list of the top soundbars available 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 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's HW-Q990D has set a new standard in the soundbar world. As the brand's flagship model, it's hailed as the top soundbar system on the market, receiving accolades from experts and enthusiasts alike, including those on the r/soundbars subreddit. The Q990D boasts 11 front-facing speakers, a robust subwoofer, and four up-firing drivers, creating a cinematic experience that brings action scenes to life, delivers crystal-clear dialogue, and provides 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 SpaceFit Sound Pro adjusts the sound profile to your room, while Adaptive Sound optimizes audio for different scenes, enhancing voices during dialogues and boosting bass for action-packed sequences. The soundbar also supports HDMI 2.1 for 4K at 120Hz passthrough, enhancing the gaming experience.
The HW-Q990D, with a retail price of $2,000, often goes on sale, offering significant discounts for those who time their purchase right. Alternatively, Samsung's previous flagship, the HW-Q990C, offers similar audio performance at about $400 less, making it a great option for those looking to save without sacrificing quality.
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, the successor to the renowned Sonos Arc, elevates the soundbar experience with a 9.1.4-channel configuration and 15 Class-D amplifiers. It's the first Sonos product to feature SoundMotion technology, which optimizes sound within the soundbar's compact design. The Arc Ultra boasts double the bass output of its predecessor, delivering powerful audio.
With four dedicated up-firing drivers, the Arc Ultra excels in reproducing Dolby Atmos content, creating a comprehensive soundstage without the need for additional rear speakers. My review of the Arc Ultra highlighted its ability to deliver high-quality music and its useful features like Speech Enhancement for clearer dialogue. As part of the Sonos ecosystem, it integrates seamlessly with other Sonos speakers for a whole-home audio solution. While it's a top performer, its value proposition doesn't quite match the Samsung HW-Q990D when considering the full system cost.
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"Weight12.5lbsLG's S95TR, while not as immersive as the Samsung HW-Q990D, is a formidable soundbar system. With 17 drivers, including a unique center height channel, it delivers balanced sound across all frequencies. The S95TR's bass performance stands out, thanks to its hefty 22lb subwoofer, which adds depth to action scenes and delivers punchy bass for music.
The S95TR is equipped with AI Room Calibration technology to optimize sound for your space and supports Apple AirPlay, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant. It's a high-end soundbar that offers robust bass and comprehensive audio features, making it a strong contender in the market.
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 a budget-friendly soundbar, Vizio's V21-H8 offers solid stereo sound at a low price. It's a compact system that enhances the audio of movies, TV shows, and music, although it lacks a center channel for dialogue clarity. The V21-H8 is simple and straightforward, with basic controls for bass, treble, and sound modes, making it an ideal set-it-and-forget-it option. While it doesn't offer Wi-Fi or Dolby Atmos, it remains a cost-effective choice for upgrading your TV's audio.
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"Weight5.53lbsVizio's M-Series 5.1.2 soundbar offers exceptional value for a surround sound system. Despite its age, it features a sleek design and delivers detailed, distortion-free sound with a powerful 6-inch subwoofer. As a Dolby Atmos soundbar under $400, it provides a commendable three-dimensional audio experience, although it doesn't match the performance of higher-end models. The absence of Wi-Fi and the need for wired rear speakers are drawbacks, but the overall value remains compelling.
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 the perfect soundbar for smaller rooms, offering clear dialogue and vibrant sound despite its compact size. It uses advanced processing to create phantom height channels for Dolby Atmos content, enhancing the audio experience. Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple AirPlay 2, the Beam integrates well with smart home ecosystems. It's an excellent starting point for those looking to expand their audio setup gradually, with the option to add other Sonos speakers for surround sound or a subwoofer for enhanced bass.
How to Pick a Soundbar
Choosing the right soundbar can be overwhelming with so many options available. Here are some tips to help you decide:
Soundbars come in various channel configurations, simulating surround sound. For general TV viewing and music, a 2.0 or 2.1 channel system should suffice. A 3.1 channel soundbar includes a center speaker for clearer dialogue, ideal for talk-heavy shows. For a more immersive experience with movies and games, opt for a 5.1 channel or higher system, which often includes additional speakers and a subwoofer.
When considering connectivity, look for soundbars with HDMI ARC or eARC for seamless integration with your TV. Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity is essential if you plan to stream music from other devices. If you use voice assistants, ensure the soundbar is compatible with your preferred system.
For the latest in audio technology, consider a soundbar with Dolby Atmos support. Dolby Atmos provides a three-dimensional audio experience, but ensure it includes up-firing drivers, a subwoofer, and rear speakers for the best results. 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) but no subwoofer, providing stereo sound suitable for general TV viewing and smaller spaces.
2.1 Soundbars: These include two channels and a subwoofer, adding depth and bass, enhancing the experience 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, offering surround sound. Some use additional speakers or virtual surround technology for a more 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 support most soundbars. Some soundbars also offer Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or AirPlay for additional streaming and connectivity options.
Do I need a subwoofer with my soundbar?
While not necessary, a subwoofer can significantly enhance your audio experience by adding deep bass. It's particularly beneficial for action movies, music, and gaming. Many soundbars come with a built-in or wireless subwoofer for a richer 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, it can greatly enhance the cinematic experience, making it feel as if sound is coming from all directions, including above.
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 favorite streaming service. Look for soundbars with Bluetooth, Chromecast, or AirPlay if music streaming is important to you.
