If your television’s sound quality is poor, you are not the only one in this world: nearly all contemporary televisions, regardless of their size, have subpar speakers hidden away in increasingly tiny panels. However, just adding a soundbar to your existing setup is a simple and effective way to create a more engaging and pleasant watching experience. The finest soundbars provide excellent audio in a compact design that can be placed in front of or below your television. There seem to be no distinct stereo speakers to fill the space, and there are no twisting wires to cause tripping hazards in the process.
There are certain considerations to examine before making a purchase. Calculate the size of your new soundbar by taking into account the measurements of your existing television. If you don’t want your bar to be overshadowed by the screen, you should avoid pairing it with a small television. Otherwise, it will appear odd, like a little head sitting on a pair of too-wide shoulders. Look up the measurements and do a comparison between the width of the bar and the width of your television. Also, make sure the soundbar is the right height for your TV; if you have to put it in front of it, you don’t want it to obscure half of the image.
Then there are the functions and accessibility. In addition to wireless sound systems and Bluetooth connections for connecting a game console or 4K Blu-ray player, many contemporary soundbars have ARC and eARC-enabled HDMI outputs, as well as compatibility for Dolby Atmos audio via up-firing speakers. Consider the kind of material you’ll be watching and the sources you’ll be connecting to your computer. If you are just using Freeview to watch television, many of these technologies will be superfluous. However, if you’re watching videos from services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video in 4K HDR, you’ll want to squeeze out the finest possible audio quality to ensure that your content sounds as beautiful as it appears on the screen.
We’ve compiled a list of the finest soundbars available in a variety of different price ranges. All of these will improve your audio experience by providing a hassle-free setup. Let’s just quickly pop into the 10 best soundbars.
1. Samsung HW-A450/ZA
Samsung HW-A450/ZA 2.1ch Soundbar with Dolby Audio (2021) comes with a separate wireless subwoofer, remote controller, cable, wall mount kit, and battery for the remote controller.
Seamless Connectivity
As far as the connections go, you get a Bluetooth 4.2 USB and an optical input. If the HDMI port is not on your requirements, then this will work great and having Bluetooth incorporated makes it really simple to connect with a smartphone for playing music.
Power Output
It is a 2.1 channel system with a total power output of 300 watts. The soundbar accounts for 80 watts out of total power output, which is more than what you’ll have built into almost any TV and the subwoofer is rated at 220 watts. HW-450 does a nice job handling mids and bass, and highs are decent too but because it doesn’t have a dedicated centre channel, vocals can get a little hard to hear at really high volumes.
Wide Range of Sound Profile Presets
HW-A450 model gives several presets to choose from; there’s a surround sound expansion option that helps widen the sound stage, a gaming mode to enhance the audio while you’re gaming and there’s a standard mode if you don’t want any additional audio enhancements to the sound. There’s an adaptive light that optimizes the audio based on the content you’re listening to. And, there’s a bass boost option that enhances those low tones.
Pros
- Sound Profile Presets
- Good at High Volumes
Cons
- Doesn’t support Dolby Atmos
- Poor surround sound performance
Conclusion
HW-A450 is definitely worth a look if you’re looking to upgrade your TV sound without emptying your wallet. It’s easy to set up and provides better audio than what you’ll get from almost any factory TV speaker and it’s got some useful presets built-in which makes your music and games sound better too.
2. Polk Audio Signa S2
Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV Soundbar comes with a wireless subwoofer system, HDMI cable, Optical Cable, Power Cord, Quick Start Guide, Infrared (IR) remote control, One Battery for remote control.
Unique Long Sleek Design
The Polk Signa S2 soundbar is longer than usual soundbars which are 35 ¼ inches in length. The material feels really good; it doesn’t make you feel cheap. As it’s a way too long speaker but feels very light to handle. Like the soundbar, the subwoofer also seems to be incredibly light and slim, and the material used for the frame is quite decent. The exterior is sturdy and doesn’t make us feel too easily broken.
Easy Wireless Connectivity
You may send audio from any applications and sources on your TV that are connected directly to the TV using a single HDMI connection to the Signa S2. The Signa S2 volume may also be controlled via the TV remote if CEC is enabled on the TV. Custom EQ settings to guarantee you get crisp speech, deep bass, and huge sound when watching movies and listening to music. To activate Night Mode, you may press the ‘Night Mode’ button on your device to decrease the overall volume and raise volume adjusting to improve the clarity of conversation while remaining at a comfortable level.
Audio Output
The sound quality is pretty good and richer, but if you’re looking for the full super bass booming sound; this won’t be a good option for you. While through Bluetooth connectivity, the high pitches are way too high and sharp when compared to connecting it to the HDMI or optical input.
Pros
- Good at High Volumes
- Good stereo sound effect
Cons
- Not good at bass
- Poor surround sound performance
Conclusion
Polk Signa S2 is among the best entry-level soundbars out there as far as you search for under the $200 price point. This is a better soundbar for medium or small spaces and well suitable for TV shows and sports events.
3. VIZIO V-Series
Vizio V-Series 5.1 channel Home Theatre Soundbar comes with a Wireless Subwoofer, 2 rear speakers, HDMI cable, ARC cable, remote control.
Striking Surround Sound Performance
There’s a lot to appreciate about Vizio’s 5.1-channel V-Series surround sound system, but the greatest thing is that it’s so inexpensive. The 5.1-channel system meets and surpasses those expectations with its surround speakers.
While the full surround effect, how well-placed and distinct the audio from the satellite speakers is will vary depending on the source content’s mastering, the 5.1-channel system’s sheer driver count enhances sturdiness surmounting the average 2.1-channel soundbar.
LCD Remote Control
The feedback mechanism on soundbars is one of the most common complaints. The standard soundbar remote controls the soundbar and subwoofer volume and displays the changes through LEDs on the soundbar. They may go from one to five to indicate loudness increase, or from white to blue to indicate Bluetooth connection mode.
These systems have usually worked well, but only recently have they become more or less cross-brand compatible. There are so many options to personalize your experience here that it would be impossible to mention them all.
Pros
- Easy setup
- Immersive surround sound performance
- Google Voice Assistant Compatibility
Cons
- The Centre channel link is weak
- Some lacklustre features
Conclusion
With the V51-H6, you get a soundbar, a subwoofer, and surround speakers for around $200. This sound bar allows you to surround your living room with high-quality audio without breaking the bank. There are a few reasons not to go with the V51-H6. If you don’t have room for surround speakers, an all-in-one bar may be a better option. The V51-H6 is one of the most affordable home theatre audio systems available. This 5.1-channel surround system is far too powerful and versatile for its price.
4. YAMAHA SR-B20A
YAMAHA SR-B20A Sound Bar with Built-in Subwoofers and Bluetooth is 120-watt, with two 2.125-inch cones and two 1-inch tweeters with a single HDMI-ARC port, a pair of Toslink optical inputs, and the aforementioned RCA subwoofer out.
Audio Quality
The middle detail levels contribute to the unique and characterful nature of speech, while the top end has enough substance to prevent treble sounds from becoming jagged. However, the lowest frequency range is very ‘one-note,’ with very little diversity in bass sounds. To be sure, there is no shortage of information regarding texture, but the Yamaha lacks emotion at the bottom end, and as a consequence, the bass thumps along rather aimlessly.
Pros
- Pretty Classy design
- Impressive bass sound performance
Cons
- No Wi-Fi support
- Typical sound quality for music
Conclusion
It’s tough to know what to anticipate when dealing with an entry-level product like the Yamaha SR-B20A, but it’s fair to say that any expectations were exceeded in this instance. This is a sizable soundbar that makes the most of its dimensions. While it is well suited for wall installation, it is very tough to make it sound terrible.
5. Samsung HW-T450
Samsung HW-T450 2.1 channel Soundbar with Dolby Audio (2020) comes with a wireless subwoofer system that has three speakers embedded into the real bar. This system benefits greatly from the use of 200 watts since that additional power amplifies the system’s power. It also includes DTS and Dolby Digital audio decoding.
Music features
In terms of music listening, the Samsung HW-T450 is satisfactory. This is because it includes wireless subwoofers, which provide powerful bass that should satisfy average listeners. While some hard-core bass lovers may find it a little light on low-bass. Adjustments can be made on bass and treble, as well as EQ presets to help you find the right sound. Works perfectly fine for a big room and a large crowded environment.
Mixed usages
Samsung HW-T450 is ideal for mixed usages. You can adjust the bass and treble systems for a better experience. It also performs great on dialogue-centric content like audiobooks as voices should be clear and accurate for these contents. Favourite content can be played using Bluetooth.
Connectivity
The subwoofer connects wirelessly to the soundbar system. You can pair them by using a small button found in its lower right back. Power cable is the only wired connection
Interface
The interface of Samsung HW-T405 is simple. It is located in the middle of the bar, behind the fabric covering. It has to scroll to complete words. It can show/display 6 characters at a time. As it can show only 6 characters at a time and one has to scroll to complete the sentence, which is an annoying thing.
Pros
- EQ presets and bass, treble adjustments available
- Bluetooth supported
Cons
- Room correction feature not available
- No Atmos support
Conclusion
The Samsung HW-T450 is appropriate for listening to music. It offers a powerful bass thanks to its wireless subwoofer. While it is true that the base has been toned down a little on this one, bass and treble controls, as well as presets, are available to help you get the ideal sound. It may be loud enough for a big room or an atmosphere where a lot of people are present. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have a room equalization function.
6. Nebula Soundbar – Fire TV Edition
Alexa Fire TV Edition of the Anker Nebula Soundbar continues to market this soundbar as a 2.1-channel system due to the two built-in 3-inch woofers and bass ports on each side, while the left and right channels are supplied by two 1.5-inch full-range drivers. The Anker Nebula does not support Dolby Atmos as it does not have any upfiring drivers. However, the Anker Nebula does have a virtual surround mode.
Minimalistic design
The Anker Nebula soundbar is certainly small in dimensions (92 x 11 x 6cm), particularly considering it’s just a 2.1 speaker system consisting of two speakers and two subwoofers. The one redeeming grace is that the Nebula’s black mesh fabric helps it blend in with its surroundings, and if you have a second or third-generation Echo nearby, the fabric will match, giving excellent synchronization across space.
Super cool interface – Alexa
Once connected to your TV, you can use the built-in Amazon Fire TV with 4K HDR to enjoy the full Fire TV experience without a dongle. The Nebula soundbar has applications for Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and other major streaming services, making it a one-stop-shop for media consumption. In addition to 4K HDR, the Nebula supports HDR10+ and Dolby Vision for enhanced visuals. Most customers won’t be able to benefit from this feature unless they own a Vision-enabled TV.
Pros
- Crisp and clear sound performance
- Built-in Alexa interface
- Sophisticated design
Cons
- Difficult setup process
- Poor bass sound
Conclusion
The Nebula Soundbar—Fire TV Edition’s simplicity makes it easy to understand the benefits of video streaming, and you would love using Alexa voice commands to navigate the soundbar’s menus and search for movies and TV shows. The Nebula’s built-in speakers sound better than most TVs’ built-in speakers, but the soundbar’s lack of bass and overall sound quality may disappoint those seeking high-quality music.
7. TCL Alto 6+ – TS6110-NA
TCL Alto 6+ 2.1 Channel Dolby Audio Sound Bar which is 31.5-inch in length comes with a Wireless Subwoofer that consumes 240-watt power, weighs 6.7 kilograms.
Immersive sound performance
When compared to its size and affordability, the Alto 6 Plus delivers a surprisingly large sound. It improves the clarity of conversation, in part because of the additional resonance provided by the subwoofer. Additionally, the subwoofer adds some punch to low-end effects, but it isn’t very detailed.
Advantageous Subwoofer features
The subwoofer is equipped with Dolby audio, which improves the overall sound quality. The bass sound is deep and rich, and it is loud and clear – all in a small and portable package. The subwoofer is constructed of MDF wood material, which gives it a more solid appearance and feels. It is more compact and portable than other speakers on the market. The TLC Alto 6+ is similar in size to a medium-sized desktop computer in that it can be placed nearly anyplace without difficulty. This device just requires a power source, and the process of connecting to and syncing with the soundbar is completely wireless.
Pros
- Crisp and Clear Bass sound
- EQ presets available
- Rich high volume sound without distortion
Cons
- No Dolby Atmos support
- Poor Surround Sound performance
Conclusion
TCL Alto 6+’s crisp and precise voice reproduction is excellent for TV programs, but it also works well for mixed usage. It lacks low bass and does not support Dolby Atmos. While we can’t speak about better sound, those three equalization settings are extremely helpful. It is best utilized for voice playbacks like TV programs, podcasts, and ebooks through a Bluetooth connection.
8. PHEANOO Audio Soundbar with Dolby
PHEANOO audio soundbar with Dolby comes with a wireless subwoofer and remote control. The overall package dimensions are 103.6 x 45 x 23cm weighs 7.7 kilograms. This soundbar has RCA, Bluetooth, USB, AUX and HDMI connectivity.
Dolby Support
Dolby Digital Interpretation produces amazing room-filling surround sound that far outperforms the sound produced by the tiny speakers built into your television.
Crisp and clear sound
A completely immersive and unmatched listening experience is provided by 3D, various settings, and different speakers. You can experience every element of your music and movies with crisp, stunning detail and remarkable clarity thanks to four excellently filled speakers and one powerful subwoofer. Deep bass, increased power and ground-shaking bass combine to give you a spectacular movie-watching environment.
Pros
- Dolby support
- Worthy Bass sound performance
Cons
- Nothing for this price point
9. KMOUK Sound Bars for TV
KMOUK Soundbars are the best for the TV 2.1 channel which is technically a wall-mountable Soundbar. Having 6 Speakers functioning a fully built-in Dual Subwoofers is available in the open market with 4 Equalizer Mode, Bluetooth 5.0, HDMI ARC/Optical/AUX Connection.
High-quality music
KMOUK brings in superior quality wireless Soundbar music for a deep and rich bass experience. Additionally, a bright treble, thereby it gets the user to feel the rhythm of the music. You can easily connect the soundbar to a laptop, tablet or even mobile to sink into the magnificent experience.
Improve TV sound
KMOUK speakers have a special feature ‘movie mode’ which could be a good way to boost TV sound. KMOUK soundbar could be a must-have sound device to accompany today’s modern TV for a better experience.
Slim but powerful
Dual driver and passive vibration plate design for more powerful intense sound.2.0 channels for a far better hearing experience. The soundbar includes a compact design that allows it to be positioned almost anywhere, either before PC/TV, even mounted on the wall.
Multiple connections
KMOUK Soundbar supports 3.5mm (AUX&RCA) and optical wired audio input to attach with a TV/PC. In addition, it will be used as a Bluetooth 5.0 Soundbar to simply play various streaming music services applications on the phone device.
Ultimate gaming experience
One feature of a soundbar worth experimenting with is its game mode; it’ll improve the clarity of everything in the game, from delicate whispers to light footfall to in-game voice conversations. Gaming Soundbar will bring a sensible experience as if you step into the sport itself.
LED display
It contains a LED display right within the centre of the LED when you’re using the Soundbar you’ll clearly see the quantity, set mode, which improves the user experience.
Pros
- KMOUK speakers are slim and effective
- Supports Bluetooth 5.0
- Great for a crowded/large room
Cons
- Not so crisp and clear sound
- Poor sound performance in high volumes
Conclusion
KMOUK’s soundbar is compact enough to fit on a gaming PC yet powerful enough to power a small TV’s audio. It has two drivers that operate in tandem to reduce noise and provide an excellent surround sound experience. It is adaptable to a wide variety of devices and comes with both touch and remote control options.
10. Wohome Soundbar S89
Wohome Soundbar S89 28-inch 80W comes with a 110dB surround soundbar home theatre Audio system (4 speakers), LED display, 4EQs, Remote Control, Digital optical cable, power adaptor, stereo RCA to 3.5mm audio cable.
Multi connection
Enjoy wireless music streaming through 5.0; support HDMI-ARC, AUX, Coaxial, optical inputs and USB, will work on almost all of your devices (HDMI-ARC connection will let you use your TV remote to control the volume on/off).
3D surround sound
Installed with DSP technology for amazing precision and clarity sound, movie, support music, dialogue and 3D equalizer mode, brings you a fantastic home theatre experience.
Ultra-slim 28-inch soundbar
With a classic and fashionable design,2.9 inches high will fit easily under the TV and desktop monitor, great 28 inches, suits for 40 to 75-inch TV or smart TV, remote and mount kit comes with the device.
110 dB of room-filling sound system
Built-in 4*20W powerful speakers with full range and 2*bass reflex tubes, gives a crystal clear deep bass and pure sound effects for movies, songs, gaming, perfect for the living room.
Ideal for BASS lovers
The powerful bass system with built-in 2 subwoofers makes deep bass, works perfectly fine for your theatre experience, music, recordings, it’s great especially for gaming, suits perfectly fine for home parties etc.
Pros
- Wall mountable
- Immersive home theatre experience
- Bass and Treble adjustment
Cons
- Typical power cord quality
Conclusion
Lifetime technical support is given to the customer, ideal for gamers to listen to minute details for a better gaming experience, with this device, enhance TV audio, clarify dialogues, this device will give a wholesome theatre experience.
SUMMARY
Our choices above are what we believe to be the finest soundbars under $200 that are presently available for the majority of consumers to purchase. We consider factors such as pricing (a less expensive soundbar wins out over a more expensive one if the difference isn’t worth it), comments from our visitors, and availability when making our decisions (no soundbars that are difficult to find or almost out of stock everywhere).
If you want to make your own selection, here is a list of all of our soundbar reviews that are under $200. Take care not to get engrossed in the minutia of the situation. There is no such thing as a perfect soundbar. When it comes to making your decision, personal taste, choice, and listening habits will be more important.
Our Recommendation
If you want to buy a clear, crisp, booming bass sound experience with ease of setup, we would recommend the Vizio V-series soundbar, which is the best package for all-in-one features without breaking your bank.
If you want a good high-volume sound experience to enjoy while partying or get-together, we would recommend the Polk Audio Signa S2, which gives you the perfect stereo sound effect to enhance your party.
