We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Sound Bars 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Amazon Fire TV Soundbar Plus with subwoofer and surround sound speakers (newest model), 5.1 channel, Dolby Atmos, clear dialogue

The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar Plus, released in 2024, is designed for those looking to create a cinematic audio experience at home. Its 5.1 channel setup, which includes a soundbar, subwoofer, and two surround sound speakers, promises immersive sound through Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technology. This means that you can expect sound to move around you, providing a lifelike and multi-dimensional audio experience. Additionally, the dedicated center channel ensures that dialogue is crystal clear, making it easier to follow conversations in your favorite movies and shows.

The soundbar also offers various sound modes like Movie, Music, Sports, and Night to tailor the audio to what you're watching, enhancing the experience. Setup is straightforward as the subwoofer and surround speakers connect wirelessly to the soundbar, minimizing cable clutter. Another convenience is that it works seamlessly with smart TVs and TVs with streaming media players, and you can even control it using a single remote. Bluetooth connectivity is a plus, allowing you to stream music from your phone or tablet.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The subwoofer and surround speakers are not built into the soundbar, so you'll need space to arrange these components around your room. The soundbar itself is quite large at 37 inches, which might be an issue for smaller spaces. Additionally, while it comes with a 1-year warranty, extended warranties are sold separately. This product is best suited for users who are looking for a high-quality, comprehensive home theater sound system and have the space to accommodate the additional components.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Connectivity Options
The soundbar setup was incredibly quick, connecting instantly with TV and other components, making it ready for use within minutes.
#2

JBL Bar 9.1 - Channel Soundbar System with Surround Speakers and Dolby Atmos, Black

The JBL Bar 9.1 Soundbar System is a great option for anyone looking to enhance their home audio experience, especially those who enjoy surround sound and cinematic audio. With a powerful 820W output and built-in Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding, this soundbar delivers immersive sound that can fill a room. The standout feature is its detachable, battery-powered surround speakers, which allow for a genuine surround sound experience without the hassle of wires, making it particularly user-friendly for setups in various spaces.

One of the significant strengths of this soundbar is the included 300W, 10" powered subwoofer, which produces deep, resonant bass that enhances music and movie audio alike. The system also supports Ultra HD 4K pass-through with Dolby Vision, ensuring compatibility with high-definition video content.

Connectivity is well covered with options including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Optical, and HDMI, making it easy to connect to a variety of devices. Additionally, the built-in calibration feature is helpful for adjusting the sound output based on your room's acoustics, ensuring you get the best audio performance.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Audio Channels
The JBL Bar 9.1 is a near-perfect surround system with immersive sound and powerful bass.
Connectivity Options
Connectivity options like Chromecast, Bluetooth, and HDMI provide versatile ways to connect devices.
Power Output
The system delivers an amazing bass that literally shakes things in the house, enhancing the overall audio experience.
Subwoofer
The system delivers an amazing bass that literally shakes things in the house, enhancing the overall audio experience.
Sound Modes
Built-in calibration adjusts sound output based on room acoustics, ensuring optimal performance.
Size and Design
Detachable, battery-powered surround speakers are a standout feature, making setup flexible and wire-free.
#3

Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar with Bass Reflex Speaker, Integrated Tweeter and Bluetooth, (HTS100F), easy setup, compact, home office use with clear sound black

The Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar is designed for users looking for an easy-to-setup and compact sound solution, ideal for home offices or small living spaces. One of its main strengths is the built-in Bluetooth connectivity, which allows for wireless streaming from various devices, alongside the wired options with HDMI ARC for a seamless connection to your TV.

The 2-channel speaker setup with an integrated tweeter ensures clear and crisp audio, while the Bass Reflex speaker adds depth to the sound, though it might not match the punch of a dedicated subwoofer as it doesn't include one. This soundbar boasts a modest 120 watts of power output, suitable for small to medium-sized rooms. Additionally, it features S-Force Pro Front Surround, which aims to simulate a surround sound experience, enhancing the overall audio immersion.

Another useful feature is the voice enhancement, which can be particularly beneficial for those who watch a lot of dialogue-heavy content or participate in conference calls. In terms of design, the Sony S100F is slim and can be wall-mounted, making it a versatile choice for different room setups without taking up much space. However, users looking for a more cinematic experience or with larger living areas might find the 2.0 channel configuration somewhat lacking compared to more advanced soundbars with additional channels and a separate subwoofer. The Sony S100F is a solid choice for those who prioritize ease of use, compact design, and clear sound quality, particularly suited for smaller spaces and straightforward audio enhancement needs.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Connectivity Options
Works flawlessly with HDMI ARC and Apple TV, making setup and use incredibly straightforward.
Subwoofer
The bass reflex speaker adds depth, though it might not be as punchy as larger soundbars.
Size and Design
Compact design fits easily into smaller spaces, perfect for a home office.

Buying Guide for the Best Sound Bars

Choosing the right sound bar can significantly enhance your audio experience, whether you're watching movies, playing games, or listening to music. Sound bars are designed to provide better sound quality than your TV's built-in speakers, and they come in various sizes and configurations to suit different needs. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they relate to your personal preferences and usage scenarios.
Audio ChannelsAudio channels refer to the number of separate audio signals the sound bar can produce. Common configurations include 2.0, 2.1, 3.1, 5.1, and even 7.1 channels. A 2.0 sound bar has two channels (left and right), while a 2.1 adds a subwoofer for enhanced bass. Higher numbers like 5.1 and 7.1 include additional speakers for surround sound. If you want a more immersive experience, especially for movies and gaming, opt for a higher channel count. For general TV watching and music, a 2.0 or 2.1 might suffice.
Connectivity OptionsConnectivity options determine how you can connect the sound bar to your TV and other devices. Common connections include HDMI ARC, optical, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. HDMI ARC provides high-quality audio and allows control through your TV remote, making it a convenient choice. Optical connections are also good for high-quality sound but lack some of the convenience features of HDMI ARC. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enable wireless streaming from smartphones and other devices. Consider what devices you plan to connect and choose a sound bar with the appropriate connectivity options.
Size and DesignThe size and design of the sound bar can affect both its performance and how well it fits into your living space. Larger sound bars generally offer better sound quality due to bigger speakers and more room for sound to travel. However, they also take up more space. Slim and compact designs are ideal for smaller rooms or if you prefer a minimalist look. Measure the space where you plan to place the sound bar and consider the aesthetics of your room to find a model that fits well.
SubwooferA subwoofer is a speaker dedicated to reproducing low-frequency sounds, adding depth and richness to the audio. Some sound bars come with built-in subwoofers, while others include separate, often wireless, subwoofers. If you enjoy bass-heavy music or want to feel the rumble of explosions in movies, a sound bar with a subwoofer is a good choice. For more balanced audio or if space is limited, a sound bar without a subwoofer might be sufficient.
Smart FeaturesSmart features in sound bars include voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant, app control, and integration with smart home systems. These features can add convenience, allowing you to control the sound bar with voice commands or through an app on your phone. If you already use smart home devices or want to streamline your entertainment setup, look for a sound bar with these capabilities. If you prefer a straightforward audio experience, you might not need these extras.
Sound QualitySound quality is arguably the most important aspect of a sound bar. It encompasses clarity, balance, and the ability to reproduce a wide range of frequencies. Look for sound bars with good reviews on sound quality, and consider features like Dolby Atmos or DTS:X for a more immersive experience. If you're an audiophile or plan to use the sound bar for high-quality music listening, prioritize models known for excellent sound quality. For casual TV watching, a mid-range sound bar should suffice.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now