The best soundbars for upgrading your TV speakers

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Nothing ruins a fun movie night at home faster than muffled dialogue and wimpy bass. Even high-end TVs tend to offer mediocre audio quality with tiny built-in speakers that lack oomph. The good news? A solid soundbar fixes all of that in minutes. The best soundbars dramatically improve clarity, bass, and immersion without the hassle of a full surround-sound setup.

My team of reviewers and I have spent more than a decade testing audio gear, and we’ve used that hands-on experience to narrow the field to the four best soundbars for a range of rooms, budgets, and listening styles. My top pick is the Samsung HW-Q990F, a powerful Dolby Atmos system that delivers room-filling sound from every direction. If you want something smaller and more affordable, the Yamaha YAS-209 is my favorite midrange option thanks to its straightforward 2.1-channel design, reliable performance, and easy setup.

Below, you’ll find all of my current picks for the best soundbars you can buy, from budget-friendly upgrades to massive 11.1.4-channel systems that bring big cinematic impact to your home theater.

Editor’s note: Ryan Waniata contributed to the FAQ section in this guide.

Our top picks for the best soundbars

Best overall: Samsung HW-Q990F – See at Amazon

Best midrange: Yamaha YAS-209 – See at Amazon

Best on a budget: Vizio 2.0 SV200M-08 – See at Amazon

Best all-in-one option: Sonos Arc Ultra – See at Amazon

Best overall

The Samsung Q990F is the best soundbar for anyone who wants cinematic audio without paying over $2,000. This powerhouse 11.1.4-channel system isn’t the most compact option, but it fills your room with rich, multidirectional audio that pulls you right into the action.

One of the Q990F’s standout features is its Dolby Atmos support, which creates a dome of sound, including effects that seem to come from above. To achieve this, the system utilizes four up-firing drivers that bounce sound off the ceiling, four side-firing drivers, dedicated rear speakers, a compact yet powerful subwoofer, and an array of front drivers for seamless coverage.

Together, these components provide an immersive soundfield that enhances everything from blockbuster movies and gaming sessions to music playback. Beyond sheer volume, the Q990F impresses with its balance and smooth transitions between channels, providing a natural, lifelike quality to everything from sitcoms to jazz.

Compared to previous Q990 soundbars, this model introduces a revised subwoofer with a smaller build and a sealed rather than ported design. This makes it easier to place and reduces rattling. Despite its more compact footprint, the sub still delivers a powerful punch, offering deep, controlled bass even at its default settings.

The Q990F also features a suite of modern conveniences, including hands-free Alexa voice control, support for high-res audio formats, and full compatibility with both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Connection options include an HDMI eARC port, an optical input, and two HDMI inputs with 4K HDR passthrough. Notably, those HDMI ports now handle 120Hz gaming signals, which weren’t supported on the older Q990C.

Owners of certain Samsung TVs also get an added bonus: Q-Symphony. This feature is compatible with some of the best Samsung TVs, such as the S90F and S95F, enabling the Q990F to sync with a display’s built-in speakers for an even broader soundstage. The soundbar still shines on its own, but this is an interesting feature to use if you have a compatible TV.

In addition to the Q990F, you might still find the older Q990D at some stores, and it’s worth considering if the price is right. The Q990D delivers performance similar to the Q990F, but its subwoofer features a bulkier design that may be more prone to vibration. If you don’t mind the larger footprint and find a good deal, the Q990D remains a good buy.

Read our Samsung HW-Q990F soundbar review.

Visit our guide to all the best Dolby Atmos soundbars.

Best midrange

The YAS-209 isn’t as immersive as pricier soundbar models, but it delivers good audio quality for the money and includes a wireless subwoofer for dedicated bass. This is the type of classic, 2.1-channel audio setup many think of when shopping for a soundbar, and it makes for a nice, no-fuss upgrade to built-in TV speakers.

The system delivers native stereo playback with left and right separation. It also has DTS Virtual:X processing to create a simulated surround sound effect. It’s not as convincing as more expensive systems that feature side-firing audio drivers or actual rear speakers, but it does a decent job. With or without virtual surround, the system delivers clear and balanced audio for a wide range of content.

The YAS-209 connects to your TV via its HDMI ARC port, and the soundbar features a handy HDMI-in port that supports passing through video at up to 4K resolution at 60Hz with HDR (but not Dolby Vision) from a connected device, such as a gaming console or Blu-ray player.

An optical audio port is also featured for older TVs without HDMI ARC, and you can wirelessly stream music via Bluetooth or WiFi. Thanks to its built-in microphones, the YAS-209 features integrated support for Amazon Alexa, allowing for voice control of functions such as volume.

This model has been around for several years and lacks some advanced features, such as Dolby Atmos support, that are found in newer options. However, it still offers excellent overall value. The audio quality here is great for the price, making this one of the best soundbars available for under $500.

Best on a budget

The Vizio SV200M is a basic 2.0-channel soundbar. It doesn’t include a separate subwoofer, upfiring audio drivers, or dedicated rear speakers. Instead, it’s just a simple stand-alone bar with stereo audio separation. However, there’s nothing wrong with that, especially if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option. This model is typically sold for just under $100, and it’s an excellent entry-level soundbar at that price.

The SV200M replaces my previous pick in this spot, the older Vizio V-Series V21d-J8. That soundbar was also a great budget option, and I liked that it had a built-in woofer; however, it’s no longer sold at most stores. As it stands, this newer 2.0-channel bar is the best value in Vizio’s current lineup.

At around 30 inches wide, the soundbar isn’t as compact as some other budget options, but it’s still easy to place on most consoles. It also utilizes Vizio’s QuickFit design, which enables it to mount to the bottom of certain Vizio TV models without the need for tools. An HDMI eARC connection is included for simple setup with modern TVs, but there are no video passthrough ports (as expected for a budget bar), and there is no optical port. That latter omission only matters if you have an especially old TV that doesn’t support HDMI. The bar doesn’t have a dedicated remote, but it can sync control with your TV’s remote via HDMI. Bluetooth is also supported for wireless music streaming from mobile devices or computers.

The SV200M delivers left and right audio channels, offering solid performance for its class. But while it’s technically capable of processing Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio tracks, its lack of upfiring audio drivers and 2.0-channel design means it can’t actually showcase the benefits of those formats. That said, the bar does support DTS Virtual:X simulated surround sound. The tech employed here is nowhere near as convincing as what you’d get on a high-end soundbar like the Sonos Arc Ultra, but it still expands the device’s soundstage.

Vizio also sells this same soundbar unit with an included subwoofer for about $50 to $70 more. Likewise, there’s a bundle that adds in two compact rear speakers for around $200. Those pricier configurations are great step-up options on a budget, but for buyers who just want a cheap yet decent upgrade to typical TV speakers, the Vizio 2.0 SV200M is a great starting point.

Check out our guide to all the best budget soundbars.

Best all-in-one option

In many ways, the Sonos Arc Ultra is the quintessential all-in-one soundbar. It offers a slick design, immersive Dolby Atmos audio performance, and a simplified setup that gets you up and running in minutes — all from a single bar that rests in front of your TV.

The Arc Ultra doesn’t come with a separate subwoofer or rear speakers, but it still delivers impressive sound without them. This model is the successor to the standard Sonos Arc, and the Ultra offers a nice upgrade in bass and overall clarity.

To achieve its beefier performance, the Ultra utilizes Sonos’ new Sound Motion driver, which incorporates powerful woofers into a compact space while freeing up room to add additional tweeters in other areas of the bar. With 14 drivers total, including both side- and up-firing ones, the Arc Ultra provides a 9.1.4-channel Dolby Atmos experience that surrounds you in a dome of sound. You can even stream Atmos music from supported services, such as Amazon, via the Sonos app.

The app also allows you to adjust the sound, connect to other Sonos speakers, and activate the brand’s TV Swap feature. TV Swap lets you transition to private listening when paired with Sonos Ace headphones. Although many users encountered issues with a Sonos software update in 2024, most of those problems have been resolved. The app still isn’t perfect, but our reviewer didn’t encounter any major hiccups and didn’t find the app’s flaws to detract from the overall value of the Arc Ultra.

The Arc Ultra’s minimalist design is appealing, but it does have some downsides. Like its predecessor, it has limited inputs. There’s no spare HDMI connection or optical port, though you can buy an optical adapter. And though standard DTS 5.1 audio is supported, the Arc Ultra does not support DTS:X.

On the plus side, the Arc Ultra does add one notable feature that was missing from the original Arc: Bluetooth support. It also has a new Advanced Speech Enhancement mode that can emphasize dialogue without affecting the quality of other sound effects.

The Arc Ultra’s asking price is a bit high, but its performance justifies its cost. With excellent sound and numerous modern features, it’s one of the best soundbars we’ve reviewed, offering a convenient way to upgrade your audio setup.

Read our Sonos Arc Ultra review.

Check out our guide to the best Sonos soundbars and our guide to the best Bluetooth speakers.

How we test soundbars

To determine the best soundbars, our reviewers test various factors, including audio quality, format support, connectivity options, and smart features. We’ve been covering home theater products for more than a decade and use that experience to inform our testing parameters.

We also evaluate factors like overall value, build quality, aesthetics, and ease of use. After all, convenience is a big advantage of choosing a soundbar over a more traditional speaker system. The best soundbars should be simple to set up and integrate into your entertainment setup.

When reviewing soundbars, we evaluate low-, mid-, and high-frequency performance using a mix of test movies and shows across different genres. We also pay attention to how easily dialogue can be heard using multiple settings, and we test audio at numerous volume levels to ensure the soundbar can get loud without compromising quality.

We also listen to various music tracks that have been selected to showcase different frequencies. This helps us determine if the soundbar sounds tinny or distorted and if it maintains good sonic detail and instrumental definition across various styles, including rock, pop, acoustic music, and hip-hop.

Beyond specific demo material, we use each soundbar we test in our daily TV watching, gaining a sense of how the bar performs in general use. For more information about our testing process, check out our breakdown on how we review tech products.

What to look for in a soundbar

When shopping for a soundbar, take a close look at the specs, especially the size and the number of audio channels. Entry-level models are typically compact and feature basic two-channel stereo, while pricier soundbars tend to be larger and support more channels for a fuller surround-sound effect. Some systems feature a single bar, while others incorporate a separate subwoofer, and some go all-in with rear speakers. Generally, larger multi-speaker setups deliver better performance, but they also require more space.

At a minimum, all of the best soundbars handle standard stereo PCM and Dolby Digital. If you’re after a more engrossing experience, look for models that support DTS Virtual:X or true immersive formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.

HDMI ARC or eARC is the preferred way to connect a soundbar to your TV, but it’s also handy when a model includes extra wired inputs— such as optical or 3.5mm —for older TVs or additional audio gear. Some soundbars even have extra HDMI ports for video passthrough from devices like Blu-ray players or game consoles, though that’s more common once you move beyond entry-level options.

Bluetooth streaming comes standard on many soundbars, but WiFi audio typically delivers higher quality. If you want your soundbar to also serve as a smart speaker, look for one with built-in microphones and support for Alexa or Google Assistant.

How do I connect a soundbar?

Most of the soundbars we test connect to your TV using an HDMI cable through an HDMI ARC or eARC port. It’s the simplest setup and the only connection that lets you pass high-quality audio formats, such as Dolby Atmos, straight from your TV. In many cases, using HDMI ARC also means you can control your soundbar’s volume and power with your regular TV remote — always a win for cutting down clutter.

Even if your TV is a few years old, there’s a good chance it supports HDMI ARC. Just check the input panel for a port labeled “HDMI ARC” or “HDMI eARC.”

If you need a reliable cable, take a look at our guide to the best HDMI cables for soundbars and TVs.

If your TV doesn’t offer HDMI ARC or eARC, you’ll have to connect your soundbar using an optical digital port instead. This will still give you solid audio quality, but it won’t support 3D formats like Dolby Atmos. In that situation, it might be worth considering a TV upgrade to get the most out of a modern soundbar.

Entry-level 4K TVs with HDMI ARC can now be purchased for about $500 or less, depending on size. Check out our TV buying guides for top recommendations across different price ranges and sizes:

• Best TVs
• Best smart TVs
• Best 4K TVs
• Best OLED TVs
• Best sports TVs
• Best gaming TVs
• Best frame TVs
• Best budget TVs
• Best TVs under $500
• Best 100-inch TVs
• Best 85-inch TVs
• Best 75-inch TVs
• Best 65-inch TVs
• Best 55-inch TVs
• Best 50-inch TVs
• Best 43-inch TVs
• Best Sony TVs
• Best TCL TVs
• Best LG TVs
• Best Roku TVs

Soundbar FAQs

Are soundbars worth it?

Even cheap soundbars deliver better audio quality than the speakers you’ll find built into most displays. To keep costs down and ensure that the speakers fit within a flat-screen design, TVs often include small drivers and poor placement, which can result in thin, muddy sound. The best soundbars enhance your TV-watching experience by adding more dimension, clarity, and bass.

The best soundbars can also enhance the clarity of dialogue and other effects for individuals with hearing issues. That’s especially true for soundbars with a dedicated center channel, where most dialogue and other important movie and TV sound effects are directed.

Will new soundbar models be released in 2026?

Though brands periodically refresh their soundbar lineups, new models are not always released on a yearly basis. This is especially true for companies like Sonos and Bose, which typically carry over their soundbar models for several years before they release an upgraded option.

However, Samsung does traditionally release new soundbars every year, and 2026 is no exception. The company unveiled a new Q990H soundbar at CES 2026, which will succeed our top pick, the Q990F. Pricing and an exact release date have not been announced yet, but we’ll be testing the new model for consideration in this guide once it becomes available.

What size soundbar should I get?

Size is an important factor to consider when shopping for a new soundbar. Many single-unit soundbars are built with a width of around 25 inches or larger, while some ultra-compact models can be as small as 14 inches wide. On the other end of the spectrum, high-end soundbar models can be as wide as 50 inches.

Generally speaking, bigger soundbar models deliver better sound quality since they can incorporate more speaker drivers with larger dimensions. However, smaller bars are often more affordable, convenient, and easier to set up.

If you plan to place your soundbar on an entertainment console alongside your TV, measure the area before making a purchase. This way, you can ensure that the soundbar you choose won’t be too wide to rest on your TV stand and that its height won’t block your display.

Can soundbars support surround sound?

Many of the best soundbars support multiple audio channels to create surround sound, which refers to the different directions audio can be projected. Entry-level models usually stick to two channels for basic left and right stereo, while midrange and high-end soundbars often add five or more channels — typically including a center channel for dedicated dialogue and rear channels created through extra drivers, satellite speakers, or virtual processing.

Channel specs are written as up to three numbers separated by decimals. The first number indicates the number of ear-level channels (left, right, center, and surrounds). The second indicates whether there’s a dedicated low-frequency channel or subwoofer for deeper bass. The third shows how many height channels are included for Dolby Atmos.

If you just want a simple, noticeable upgrade from your TV’s built-in speakers, a compact 2.0 or 2.1 system will do the trick. But for a true home-theater feel, look for a 5.1 setup or something even more advanced.

For more recommendations, check out our complete guide to the best surround sound systems.

What is Dolby Atmos?

Dolby Atmos is an immersive surround sound format that uses object-based audio mixing. In practice, this means that sounds can be more precisely positioned around your room, with effects placed in all directions, including overhead. For instance, when rain falls from the sky or a helicopter flies overhead, you can actually hear the sound coming from above.

Dolby Atmos soundbars can use one of two methods to create overhead sound effects. The first involves audio processing to create a simulated sense of height from regular ear-level speakers. The second method uses up-firing drivers angled up instead of forward to bounce sound effects off your ceiling. Good up-firing drivers provide a much more convincing sense of overhead sound than audio processing can produce alone.

For more specifics, see our What is Dolby Atmos explainer.

Do I need a subwoofer?

A subwoofer can be an integral part of your cinematic and musical experience. Due to basic physics, soundbars alone can’t offer the deep bass frequencies you’d get from a subwoofer. If you’re looking for earth-rattling thunder, a hefty boom from explosions, and powerful bass beats, consider a soundbar that either includes a subwoofer or, at the very least, allows you to add one later.

For our top recommendations, check out our guide to the best soundbars with subwoofers. 

What are the top soundbar brands?

Many audio brands produce excellent soundbars, but some excel in specific price ranges. If you’re shopping on a budget, Vizio, Roku, TCL, and Hisense are all strong picks. They consistently deliver solid entry-level options without inflating the price.

Moving up a tier, Yamaha, Sonos, and Bose offer some of the best midrange and upper-midrange soundbars, balancing performance, features, and design. Samsung and Sony cover just about every budget, but they especially stand out when it comes to high-end models with advanced surround and Dolby Atmos support. And if you want true premium performance, Sennheiser is absolutely a brand to keep on your radar.

Source: The best soundbars for upgrading your TV speakers