Buying Guide for the Best TV Soundbars
Choosing the right soundbar for your TV can really enhance your entertainment experience by delivering richer, clearer audio than your TV’s built-in speakers. To find the best fit, you need to think about your room size, how you watch TV, and what kind of sound quality you want. It's also a good idea to consider how easy it is to connect and control the soundbar with your existing equipment. By paying attention to some key features and understanding what they mean for your specific needs, you can select a soundbar that complements your setup and makes your favorite shows, movies, and music sound their best.ChannelsChannels refer to how many separate audio outputs a soundbar has, usually listed as numbers like 2.0, 3.1, or 5.1. The first number is the main speakers and the second (if present) is subwoofers. More channels can create a wider, more immersive sound. If you mostly watch TV or news, a basic 2.0 or 2.1 channel soundbar might be enough. For movies or sports with surround effects, a 3.1 or 5.1 channel system can offer a more cinema-like experience. Think about your space and what you listen to most to decide if you want simple stereo sound or a more dynamic surround setup.
ConnectivityConnectivity describes how a soundbar connects to your devices—like your TV, phone, or streaming box. Common options include HDMI ARC, optical, Bluetooth, and AUX. HDMI ARC allows two-way communication and is great for simplicity and high audio quality. Optical and AUX are also reliable wired connections. Bluetooth lets you stream music wirelessly from your phone. Choose the connections that match your devices and consider if you want the ease of wireless streaming or the stability of a wired setup.
Dolby Atmos and Surround Sound SupportDolby Atmos and other surround sound technologies give you a more immersive, 3D audio experience, making sounds seem like they’re coming from all around you, even above. Some soundbars support these formats with special speaker designs. If you love watching action movies or want a theater-like feel, look for this feature. If you mostly use your TV for regular shows or news, this may not be as important.
Subwoofer TypeA subwoofer is a separate speaker that handles deep bass, making explosions and music sound fuller. Some soundbars include a built-in subwoofer, while others offer a separate one (wired or wireless). Built-in subs keep things compact, but separate subwoofers usually deliver better bass. If you enjoy music or movies with lots of action, look for a soundbar with a quality subwoofer. For quiet viewing, a basic model may be just fine.
Size and DesignSoundbars come in many sizes and styles, from sleek and compact to large and feature-packed. It’s important to choose one that fits below your TV or on your furniture and matches your room’s style. Measure your available space and check that the soundbar won’t block your TV screen or remote sensor. A bigger soundbar can fill bigger rooms, but a compact one might be perfect for bedrooms or smaller spaces.
Smart FeaturesModern soundbars may include smart features like built-in voice assistants, Wi-Fi streaming, or app control. Voice assistants let you control the soundbar hands-free, while Wi-Fi streaming supports music playback from popular services. If you like integrated smart home control or streaming music without extra devices, these features might be important. If not, you can pick a simpler model without these extras.