The 4 best soundbars for upgrading your TV speakers

There's nothing worse than settling in for movie night only to strain through muffled dialogue or paper-thin bass. Even the priciest TVs often fall short when it comes to audio, thanks to built-in speakers that lack depth and power. The easiest way to fix that? Add a soundbar. The best soundbars can transform your home theater, making voices clearer and action scenes more immersive.

Our team has spent over a decade testing audio gear, and we've leveraged that experience to select the best soundbars for every setup. Our top choice for 2025 is the Samsung HW-Q990F, a powerhouse Dolby Atmos system that surrounds you with sound from every direction. If you'd prefer something smaller and more affordable, the Yamaha YAS-209 is our favorite midrange option. It's easy to use and delivers great performance in a simple 2.1-channel design.

Below, you'll find all our picks for the best soundbars of 2025, from budget-friendly models to full-fledged 11.1.4-channel systems built for big cinematic sound.

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.

This year's 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 works with some of the best Samsung TVs, such as the S90F and S95F, allowing 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 last year's Samsung Q990D at some stores, and it's worth considering if the price is right. The Q990D delivers performance that's very similar to the Q990F, but its older, bulkier subwoofer design can 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 using its HDMI ARC port, and the soundbar has 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, like 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 is missing some advanced features, such as Dolby Atmos support, that you'd find 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. But there's nothing wrong with that, especially if you want 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 our previous pick in this spot, the older Vizio V-Series V21d-J8. That soundbar was also a great budget option, and we 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 last year, 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 $999 asking price is a bit high, but we think its performance justifies its cost. With excellent sound and many modern features, it's one of the best soundbars we've reviewed and 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 maintains good sonic detail and instrumental definition for various styles, such as 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, pay close attention to various specs, including size and the number of audio channels supported.

Entry-level soundbars tend to be smaller and limited to basic two-channel stereo sound, whereas more expensive soundbars are larger and support multiple channels for enhanced surround sound. Some models consist of a single soundbar unit, others include a separate subwoofer, and some even have extra rear speakers. Bigger, multi-speaker soundbar systems will deliver the best audio performance, but they'll take up more room.

All of the best soundbars support basic stereo PCM and Dolby Digital audio formats at the very least. But if you want a more immersive experience, you should look for soundbars that support DTS Virtual:X or true spatial audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.

The best soundbars have HDMI ARC or eARC ports to connect to your TV, but it's also beneficial when models include additional wired options, such as optical and 3.5mm ports, to connect to older TVs or other audio components. Extra HDMI ports to pass through video from connected devices, such as a Blu-ray player or gaming console, are also great, but shouldn't be expected on entry-level models.

Bluetooth music streaming is common on many of the best soundbars, but options supporting WiFi streaming will deliver even better sound quality. If you want a soundbar that can 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 soundbars we test connect to a TV with an HDMI cable via an HDMI ARC or eARC port. This is the most convenient connection type and the only way to source high-quality formats, such as Dolby Atmos, directly from your TV. In most cases, the HDMI ARC connection also allows you to use your TV remote to control the volume and power of a soundbar, reducing clutter.

Even if you're using a TV that's several years old, there's a good chance it supports HDMI ARC. You can find out by checking your TV's input section and looking for an HDMI port labeled "HDMI ARC" or "HDMI eARC."

Check out our guide to the best HDMI cables for our top recommendations to use with soundbars and TVs.

If your TV does not support an HDMI ARC or eARC connection, you must use an alternative connection, such as an optical digital port. This still allows for good sound quality but doesn't support 3D audio formats like Dolby Atmos. In that case, you may also want to consider upgrading your TV.

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
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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.

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 do surround sound?

Many of the best soundbars support multiple audio channels for surround sound. These channels refer to how many directions sound can be sent through the device.

Entry-level soundbars typically support two channels for basic left and right stereo playback, whereas many midrange and high-end models offer surround sound with five or more channels. These channels typically include a center channel for dialogue and rear channels, which can be achieved through additional audio drivers, satellite speakers, or virtualization techniques.

Channel specifications are listed as a string of up to three numbers separated by decimal points. The first number represents the number of standard ear-level channels included (left, right, center, and surrounds). The second number indicates if the device includes a dedicated low-frequency channel or a separate subwoofer for extra bass. The final number indicates the number of height channels included for Dolby Atmos support.

Buyers who just want a simple upgrade from their TV's integrated audio will likely be satisfied with a compact 2.0 or 2.1 soundbar system. However, if you're seeking a more comprehensive home theater experience, consider opting for a 5.1 surround sound system or higher.

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?

Several audio brands produce excellent soundbars, but certain companies excel in specific performance tiers more than others.

Vizio, Roku, TCL, and Hisense are solid companies to consider when shopping for an entry-level soundbar. Meanwhile, brands like Yamaha, Sonos, and Bose offer several great midrange and upper-midrange soundbars. Samsung and Sony offer reliable soundbars across a range of budgets, but sell particularly good high-end models. Sennheiser is also a good brand to keep in mind if you're looking for a premium soundbar.

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