Buying Guide for the Best Soundbar With Google Assistant
Choosing a soundbar with Google Assistant is all about enhancing your audio experience while adding the convenience of voice control to your entertainment setup. You'll want to consider how the soundbar blends into your living space, what kind of audio performance you expect, and how seamlessly you can use Google Assistant to manage music, smart home devices, or get answers to questions. The right features will depend on how you watch TV, listen to music, and interact with technology at home, so think about your habits and needs before making a decision.Audio ChannelsAudio channels refer to the number of separate sound sources in a soundbar—like 2.0, 2.1, 3.1, or 5.1 setups. This matters because more channels often mean a richer and more immersive sound experience. Basic 2.0 or 2.1 systems (with or without a subwoofer) are good for small rooms and clear voice reproduction. More channels, like 3.1 or 5.1, offer surround sound effects that are better for movie lovers or larger spaces. Choose based on how you watch content: simple setups for regular TV or news, more channels for movies, sports, and gaming.
Built-in Google AssistantSome soundbars come with Google Assistant built right in, while others may just work with it via your phone or a separate device. Having Google Assistant built-in lets you control music, volume, and smart devices just by speaking to the soundbar itself, making it a true voice-activated hub. If you want hands-free control without extra devices, pick a model with Google Assistant integrated; if you already have Google Nest speakers and just need good sound, a compatible model might be enough.
Connectivity OptionsConnectivity refers to the ways you can hook up your soundbar—with HDMI ARC/eARC, optical, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi. HDMI ARC/eARC is best for easy TV integration and high-quality sound. Bluetooth is great for playing music from your phone. Wi-Fi allows seamless streaming and pairing multi-room audio. Choose the soundbar with the options that match your devices and how you plan to use it, whether for TV, streaming, or parties.
Size and DesignThe size and design of your soundbar should fit your room and match your style. A compact soundbar works well for small spaces and can sit easily under your TV, while larger or longer bars can fill bigger rooms with sound. Consider the area where you'll place it and whether you want it to be a visible centerpiece or a discrete addition. Pick based on your room's layout and your sense of aesthetics.
Sound Modes and CustomizationSound modes adjust the audio output to suit different content like movies, music, news, or sports. This feature is helpful if you like to switch between different kinds of content, as it tailors the sound to make voices clearer or enhance bass for action scenes. If you want hassle-free, good sound for everything you watch or listen to, a soundbar with automatic or easy-to-select modes is a great choice.
Multi-Room and Smart Home IntegrationSome soundbars are designed to work with other Google Assistant devices for multi-room audio or can control smart home gadgets like lights or thermostats. If you have or plan to build a smart home ecosystem, it's worth ensuring your soundbar can join in. Pick this feature if you want to walk from room to room with music following you, or control your home environment with your voice through the soundbar.