10 Best Soundbars For The Money 2025 in the United States

The JBL Bar 9.1 is an impressive soundbar system that stands out in the 'soundbars-for-the-money' category. With an output power of 820W and built-in Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding, it delivers a rich and immersive sound experience, perfect for movie lovers and gamers alike. The detachable, battery-powered surround speakers enhance the surround sound experience, allowing for flexibility in placement without worrying about wires. The 300W, 10-inch powered subwoofer provides powerful bass, making action scenes and music much more thrilling.

In terms of connectivity, the JBL Bar 9.1 offers a variety of options including HDMI, Optical, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, ensuring compatibility with most devices. The Ultra HD 4K pass-through with Dolby Vision is a great feature for users wanting high-quality video alongside audio.

The system is somewhat bulky, which may not suit everyone’s space. While the wireless surround speakers are a great addition, the setup can feel complex for those not experienced with home theater systems. Some users may find the soundbar’s calibration feature difficult to navigate initially. The JBL Bar 9.1 is a solid choice for those seeking a powerful soundbar with rich features at a reasonable price, especially for home theater enthusiasts. Just keep in mind the size and setup complexity, as these could be potential drawbacks for some users.

The Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar offers a solid choice for those seeking good sound quality on a budget. It features a built-in tweeter and bass reflex speaker, which contribute to a clear and deep sound experience. The soundbar’s 2-channel setup and S-Force Pro Front Surround are designed to give an impression of surround sound, making it suitable for small living spaces or home offices.

Additionally, the voice enhancement feature is helpful for clearer dialogues during TV shows or conference calls. The compact and slim design allows it to blend nicely into any room, and it can be wall-mounted to save space. Connectivity is versatile with both wired (HDMI ARC, optical cable) and wireless (Bluetooth) options, making setup straightforward.

The inclusion of necessary accessories like the remote, batteries, and cables is a plus. However, since it is a 2.0 channel system, it might not deliver the immersive audio experience that some might expect from higher-end systems with more channels. For those looking for a simple and cost-effective soundbar that provides clear sound and easy setup, the Sony S100F is a good consideration.

The Bose TV Speaker is a solid choice for someone looking to improve their TV sound without breaking the bank. It shines in sound quality, thanks to its two angled full-range drivers that deliver clear and natural audio. The soundbar is particularly good at enhancing dialogue, making it easier to understand speech in movies and shows—a big plus for TV watching.

Connectivity is another strong point, with options for Bluetooth, HDMI ARC, Optical in, and AUX in, allowing easy integration with various devices. It also supports wireless streaming for music and podcasts, adding to its versatility. The soundbar is compact and easy to set up, fitting neatly in front of most TVs or wall-mounted with optional brackets. It includes a remote control that offers convenient features like dialogue mode and bass boost.

However, the need to purchase a separate HDMI cable and wall brackets could be a minor inconvenience. While it performs well for its size, those seeking a more immersive audio experience might want to consider adding the compatible Bose Bass Module 500 or 700, which are sold separately. This soundbar is a great option for enhancing TV sound quality on a budget, especially for users who prioritize dialogue clarity and straightforward setup.