The perfect soundbars can utterly remodel your TV setup, turning flat, lifeless audio into one thing that truly sounds cinematic. Whether or not you are watching blockbuster motion pictures, listening to music or gaming, an excellent soundbar delivers clearer vocals, deep bass and higher total playback than most built-in TV audio system ever might.
In 2025, there’s a soundbar for each sort of dwelling leisure setup — from compact all-in-one models to full encompass techniques with subwoofers and rear audio system. Some prioritize simplicity and glossy design, whereas others are filled with immersive options like Dolby Atmos and good voice controls. Regardless of your price range or your house, we’ve picked the very best soundbars you should purchase proper now to assist elevate your audio expertise.
Desk of contents
The post-CES soundbar outlook for 2025
I usually come out of CES with a reasonably clear understanding of the brand new soundbars which are coming for the 12 months, however that wasn’t precisely the case in 2025. LG determined to hold over its most premium soundbars from 2024, however it is going to add the compact S20A this 12 months. The corporate solely previewed the mannequin at CES, so full specs are nonetheless forthcoming.
Samsung will as soon as once more preserve the identical total design and options for its top-end Q990 soundbar. Nevertheless, the corporate is including a couple of new instruments and it drastically diminished the scale of the wi-fi subwoofer that comes within the field. Samsung does have one new mannequin for 2025, the QS700F, that’s designed to sit down on a desk or mechanically alter to being mounted flat on a wall. Particulars are scarce on that soundbar for now and I anticipate a full spec sheet when the corporate is de facto to promote it.
Of the massive three TV firms, Sony is the one one which didn’t announce any dwelling theater gear at CES. The corporate has determined to focus primarily on its automotive efforts on the present lately, leaving TV and audio bulletins for later within the 12 months. The corporate debuted multiple soundbar options in 2024 and a four-speaker setup for the lounge within the Bravia Quad. That stated, it wouldn’t shock me if Sony launched new soundbars later within the 12 months since its most up-to-date fashions have been solely introduced final April.
One firm I might control is Sennheiser. The original Ambeo model is sort of six years previous and will use a refresh. The corporate has added medium and mini choices to the Ambeo lineup since then, however it could be good to see a refined model of the most important mannequin too. The unique Ambeo soundbar is large, so irrespective of how good it sounds, it is going to at all times be a troublesome promote for some folks.
Though I feel it’s much less doubtless, it’s additionally potential that Sonos has new soundbars this 12 months. Whereas the corporate’s subsequent machine will doubtless be the rumored set-top streaming field, the tech;cpos:14;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas” class=”hyperlink “>Sound Movement tech inside tech-powers-a-big-audio-upgrade-130011149.html” data-ylk=”slk:the Arc Extremely;cpos:15;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas” class=”hyperlink “>the Arc Extremely would provide a giant enchancment to bass efficiency in compact fashions just like the Beam and Ray. The corporate could convey Sound Movement to standalone audio system first, however it’s destined for these smaller soundbars ultimately.
The perfect soundbars for 2025
Picture by Billy Steele / Engadget
Peak: 2.95 inches | Width: 46.38 inches | Depth: 4.35 inches | Ports: 1 x HDMI Out, 1 x Ethernet | Channels: 9.1.4 | Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI | Model: TV unit, wall mount | Max wattage: 110W
Learn our full tech-powers-a-big-audio-upgrade-130011149.html” data-ylk=”slk:Sonos Arc Extremely overview;cpos:1;pos:1;sec:large-product;subsec:commlist;pkgt:square-editorial;pos:9;cpos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0″ class=”hyperlink rapid-noclick-resp”>Sonos Arc Extremely overview
At $999, the Arc Ultra is an expensive addition to your lounge, and enlargement solely will get costlier from right here. Nevertheless, Sonos provides important upgrades over the Arc in a couple of key areas. First, because of new Sound Movement tech, the Arc Extremely has much more low-end tone by way of elevated bass efficiency. Added bass makes this a greater speaker for music if you’re not watching TV. That improve additionally allowed the corporate to reconfigure its mid-range drivers and tweeters, increasing the soundbar’s dimensional sound and immersive talents.
The on-board controls have been relocated and up to date, which can also be an enchancment – as is the addition of Bluetooth connectivity. The expanded speech enhancement function comes with a level of customization and there are actually two choices for room calibration. Plus, you’ll get every part that’s nice about Sonos merchandise: multiroom setups and crisp, clear audio high quality.
- Improved bass efficiency
- Crisp, clear and immersive sound
- Expanded Speech Enhancement
- Suitable with Ace headphones
- Nonetheless only a single HDMI port
- Growth stays dear
- Giant footprint
Sony
Peak: 3 inches | Width: 51 inches | Depth: 5 inches | Ports: 2 x HDMI In, 1 x HDMI Out, 1 x Optical, 1 x Anologue, 1 x USB-A | Channels: 7.1.2 | Assistant help: Google | Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI | Model: TV unit | Max wattage: 500W
Sony has a protracted monitor report of fantastic high-end soundbars and its latest is one other great-sounding product. The A7000 is a sturdy Dolby Atmos soundbar, able to immersive 7.1.2 audio because of Sony’s 360 Sound Mapping, Sound Subject Optimization, vertical encompass expertise and S-Power Professional entrance encompass. There’s loads of tech at work right here, and I haven’t even talked about 360 Actuality Audio or DSEE Excessive upscaling, each useful with regards to listening to music. Talking of audio, you’ll have the choice of utilizing Chromecast, Spotify Join or Apple AirPlay 2 to ship your tunes to the A7000. The general soundstage is immersive, with wonderful readability for each TV exhibits and music.
Two HDMI eARC inputs imply you possibly can hook up a number of streaming packing containers or gaming consoles. And due to HDMI 2.1 help, you possibly can count on 8K and 4K/120 passthrough to your tv, so the A7000 is a superb choice for avid gamers. This soundbar is pricey at $1,198 and it doesn’t include a separate subwoofer (although it does have one in-built). Nevertheless, Sony does offer you a number of choices for each a sub and rear satellite tv for pc audio system. The SA-SW3 sub is $298 whereas the SA-SW5 is $699. For rear audio system, the SA-RS3S is $350 whereas the actually wi-fi speaker (and a lot better trying) SA-RS5 set is $598. When you’re trying to avoid wasting cash on the soundbar itself, Sony provides the HT-A5000 for $999 (though we’ve seen it on sale for $798 lately). It packs nearly all of the same bells and whistles because the A7000, solely in a 5.1.2-channel configuration.
- Dolby Atmos help and 360 Sound Mapping
- Works with AirPlay 2
- Contains two HDMI eARC ports
- Costly
- Does not embody a separate subwoofer
Sennheiser Shopper Audio
Peak: 10 inches | Width: 70 inches | Depth: 6.5 inches | Ports: 1 x HDMI Out, 1 x USB-A | Channels: 7.1.4 | Assistant help: Google, Alexa, Siri | Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI | Model: TV unit | Max wattage: 250W
Learn our full Sennheiser Ambeo Mini review
Whereas that is essentially the most compact of Sennheiser’s Ambeo soundbars, the Mini stays within the premium class for 2 causes. First, you’ll have so as to add a subwoofer to maximise its potential, which provides one other $600. Secondly, the Mini is already $700, so an entire package deal places you at a comparable place to flagship models from the competitors. After you have each although, the Ambeo Mini is really spectacular for a small soundbar.
The principle function is Sennheiser’s spatial Ambeo expertise that first debuted on the large Ambeo Soundbar Max in 2019. With it, the corporate supplies extra immersive sound with a mixture of driver placement and 3D virtualization. On the Mini, the audio profile is extra reliant on virtualization than the larger Ambeo soundbars due fewer audio system inside. Nevertheless, you’ll nonetheless get a virtualized 7.1.4-channel speaker setup that works effectively for motion pictures and music. That’s, as long as you splurge for the Ambeo Sub too.
- Compact design
- Wonderful readability
- Nice bass
- Straightforward setup
- Costly
- No bundled sub
- Ambeo impact is restricted
- One HDMI port
Engadget
Peak: 3.94 inches | Width: 25.63 inches | Depth: 2.68 inches | Ports: 1 x HDMI Out, 1 x Ethernet | Channels: 5.0 | Voice assistant: Google, Alexa | Connectivity: WiFi, HDMI | Model: TV unit, wall mount | Max wattage: 220W
Learn our full Sonos Beam review
Strong sound high quality? Test. Dolby Atmos? Yep. Compact and straightforward to arrange? Uh huh. Suitable with different Sonos audio system for a extra sturdy system? You betcha. The primary-gen Sonos Beam has been one among our favorites since it arrived in 2018, however there was one factor it didn’t have: Dolby Atmos. That was the massive addition to the 2021 model, although it’s a bit restricted for the reason that Beam doesn’t have any upward-firing audio system. Sonos manages to make issues appear extra directional by tweaking audio timing and frequency as a substitute of including extra drivers. The new Beam nonetheless solely has the one HDMI port which implies you received’t be connecting a gaming console or set-top field on to this. It additionally signifies that when you’ve got an older TV with an optical jack, you’ll want an adapter.
- Comparatively compact design
- Good sound for its measurement
- Helps Dolby Atmos
- One contains one HDMI port
Billy Steele for Engadget
Peak: 2.0 inches | Width: 45.67 inches | Depth: 4.72 inches | Ports: 1 x HDMI in, 1x HDMI out, 1 x Optical, 1 x Ethernet | Channels: 3.1.2| Voice assistant: Google Assistant | Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi, HDMI | Model: TV unit, wall mount, shelf | Max wattage: 320W
Learn our full design-automatic-adjustments-180035549.html” data-ylk=”slk:Samsung HW-QS700F soundbar overview;cpos:1;pos:1;sec:large-product;subsec:commlist;pkgt:square-editorial;pos:9;cpos:5;elm:context_link;itc:0″ class=”hyperlink rapid-noclick-resp”>Samsung HW-QS700F soundbar overview
If design issues to you, the QS700F is the best-looking soundbar on this checklist. Plus, Samsung outfitted it with an orientation function that mechanically adjusts the audio output if you wall mount it. There are many different useful instruments too, however essentially the most engaging ones, like room calibration, require a Samsung TV. Nonetheless, the audio efficiency right here is nice for smaller areas, the place the constraints of three.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos are excusable.
- Computerized orientation adjustment
- Crisp and balanced sound
- Refined design
- Straightforward setup
- 3.1.2-channel audio constrains film sound
- Room calibration and different main options solely work with Samsung TVs
VIZIO
Peak: 7.68 inches | Width: 24 inches | Depth: 2.28 inches | Ports: 1 x Optical, 1 x USB | Channels: 2.1 | Voice assistant: None | Connectivity: Bluetooth, HDMI | Model: TV unit, wall mount | Max wattage: 156W
When you’re in search of a method to enhance your TV sound on a price range, Vizio has some high-quality options. With the V21t-J8, you get a 2.1-channel setup in a compact soundbar and 4.5-inch wi-fi sub combo for $160. This may be an excellent alternative if you happen to don’t need your add-on TV speaker to take up loads of house. There’s no Wi-Fi connectivity, however that’s actually the one sacrifice with regards to the fundamentals. HDMI ARC/eARC and optical connections hyperlink to your tv whereas a 3.5mm aux jack and Bluetooth will let you play music out of your cellphone or one other machine. DTS Digital:X compatibility provides among the impact of encompass sound and not using a larger unit or extra audio system.
- Compact design
- Contains wi-fi subwoofer
What to search for in a soundbar
Options
In relation to options, the extra you pay the extra you are going to get in your new audio system. Most reasonably priced choices ($150 or much less) will enhance your tv’s audio high quality, however that is about it. Step into the $300 to $400 vary and you will find all-in-one soundbars with issues like built-in voice management, wi-fi connectivity, Google Chromecast, AirPlay 2 and even Android TV. They’re all useful if you need to keep away from in search of the distant management, however the very best playback high quality is often solely within the high tier and the codecs these premium soundbar techniques help. I’m speaking about issues like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and different high-resolution audio requirements — necessities if you happen to’re constructing a very cinematic dwelling leisure setup. And never all Atmos soundbars are equal, so you will want to have a look at the finer particulars fastidiously earlier than you break into the financial savings account. When you’re in search of among the finest Dolby Atmos soundbars, measurement, channels and subwoofer choices will probably be essential components to contemplate. Some fashions even embody a devoted subwoofer to boost bass efficiency, bringing an additional punch to motion scenes and soundtracks.
Ports
It is a huge one. A whole lot of the extra reasonably priced soundbars are restricted with regards to connectivity choices. They both provide an optical port or one HDMI jack and, if you happen to’re fortunate, each. Issues get barely higher within the mid-range part, however that is not at all times the case. The Sonos Beam, for instance, is $449, however solely has a single HDMI port. Even on the higher-end, the $899 Sonos Arc nonetheless solely has one HDMI port. When you plan to attach a number of gadgets like a set-top field, gaming laptop computer or console on to your soundbar for the very best audio expertise, you’ll need an choice with a minimum of two HDMI (eARC) inputs. HDMI connections are essential for supporting Dolby Atmos and Dolby digital audio codecs, in addition to high-res passthrough for HDR and 8K/4K content material.
Channels
One other huge factor you’ll need to take note of when in search of the very best soundbar is channels. That’s the two.1, 7.1.2 or different decimal quantity that firms embody in product descriptions. The primary determine corresponds to the variety of channels. A two would simply be left and proper whereas a extra sturdy Atmos system, particularly one with rear encompass audio system, might be 5 or seven (left, proper, heart and upward). The second quantity refers back to the devoted subwoofer, so in case your new soundbar comes with one or has them in-built, you’ll see one right here. The third numeral is up-firing audio system, essential for the immersive impact of Dolby Atmos. Not all Atmos-enabled models have them, but when they do, the third quantity will let you know what number of are in play and the way they contribute to the general soundstage.
Wi-fi
Most soundbars as of late provide both Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or each. In relation to Wi-Fi, that connectivity affords you luxuries like voice management (both built-in or with a separate machine), Chromecast, Spotify Join and AirPlay 2. Relying in your preferences, you would possibly have the ability to reside with out a few of these. For me, AirPlay 2 and Chromecast are necessities, however the remainder I can reside with out. These two give me the flexibility to beam music and podcasts from my go-to apps with out having to accept — or wrestle with — a Bluetooth connection. As an illustration, Sonos audio system usually provide seamless integration with iOS gadgets, making it straightforward to attach and stream music wirelessly. When you’re in search of a wi-fi speaker that may improve your TV setup whereas additionally providing flexibility for audio all through the home, it is value contemplating a multi-room system.
Measurement
This one might sound apparent however humor me for a minute. Nothing is extra soul-crushing than getting an expensive soundbar in your lounge solely to find it’s important to rearrange every part to discover a spot for it. This was my plight when the Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar arrived at my door. Sure, that speaker is absurdly giant (and heavy), and most soundbars aren’t practically as huge. I discovered a invaluable lesson: Be sure the house the place you need to put a soundbar will accommodate the factor you are about to spend tons of (if not hundreds) of {dollars} on.
Mainly, all of it comes all the way down to the TV you’ve (or are planning to get) and what the first purpose is to your living-room audio. Is it ease of use? Would you like the absolute best sound from a single speaker or speaker/sub combo? Do you simply need to have the ability to really hear your TV higher? Or would you like a full dwelling leisure expertise with crisp vocals, thunderous deep bass, and immersive encompass system audio?
By listening to every of these areas, you need to have a good suggestion of what to search for in a soundbar, soundbar/subwoofer combo, Dolby digital system or a extra sturdy setup. With that stated, we have put quite a few merchandise by means of their paces at Engadget and have a couple of favorites for finest soundbar at numerous worth factors to get you began.
Different soundbars we examined
Sonos Arc
There’s little question that the Arc is Sonos’ best-sounding soundbar, however it’s additionally the corporate’s costliest. With a brand new mannequin primarily based on the Arc rumored to be on the way, it’s troublesome to advocate this product over the likes of Samsung and Sony. The Arc works effectively as each a soundbar and a speaker, and the machine will slot in properly with different Sonos gear you would possibly have already got for a multiroom setup. It solely has one HDMI port although, the place a lot of the competitors permits you to join streaming and gaming gadgets on to their soundbars.
Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Plus
I don’t suppose Sennheiser’s medium-sized model provides sufficient to face out from the extra highly effective Ambeo Soundbar Max or the Ambeo Soundbar Mini. The Mini is extra reasonably priced and does a stable job with immersive audio in its personal proper. Like the remainder of the Ambeo lineup, there’s no choice for satellite tv for pc audio system as you possibly can solely add a subwoofer to the soundbars. Nevertheless, the Ambeo Soundbar Plus does have RCA enter, so you should utilize it with a turntable if you happen to’re into vinyl.
Finest soundbar FAQs
Is a soundbar higher than audio system?
It actually depends upon what you’re after. A soundbar is certainly an easier, extra compact answer in comparison with a full speaker setup. If you need higher sound than your TV’s built-in setup however don’t need to cope with a number of audio system and wires all over the place, a soundbar might be the best way to go. Some soundbars may even ship spectacular encompass sound results, because of options like Dolby Atmos and digital audio expertise.
Nevertheless, if you happen to’re an audiophile or need true encompass sound for an at-home theater expertise, a multi-speaker setup with a receiver, encompass audio system and subwoofer offers you a richer soundstage and extra management over your expertise.
What connection do I want for a soundbar?
Most fashionable soundbars hook up with your TV by way of HDMI ARC or eARC, which is the simplest and best choice for attaining high-quality audio. In case your TV helps this, all you want is an HDMI cable, and also you’ll get not solely nice sound but in addition some further options like controlling the soundbar along with your TV distant.
If HDMI ARC isn’t an choice in your TV, you should utilize an optical cable, which additionally delivers stable audio high quality. Some soundbars even provide Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connections for streaming music, and some nonetheless have a 3.5mm aux jack for connecting to older gadgets.
Do all soundbars include subwoofers?
Not all soundbars include subwoofers, however many do or a minimum of provide one as an non-compulsory add-on that you could buy individually. A subwoofer is what offers you that deep, booming bass, so if you happen to like motion motion pictures or need a fuller sound for music, having one could make a giant distinction. Some soundbars have a built-in subwoofer, however these typically don’t present the identical punch as a separate one.
