The Best Soundbars for Building Your Personal Home Theater

Until recently, I believed a soundbar couldn't match the audio quality of a proper home theater system. I was wrong. Samsung, Sonos, LG, and other brands have dramatically improved soundbar technology, offering exceptional sound without the complexity of a full home theater setup. From powerful Dolby Atmos systems to compact all-in-ones, there's a soundbar for every need and preference.

But with so many choices, how do you choose the best soundbar? As a tech journalist who's reviewed countless soundbars, I've compiled a list of the top contenders for 2025.

TL;DR: The Best Soundbars

Samsung HW-Q990D

Our Top Pick

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Sonos Arc Ultra

Best Dolby Atmos Soundbar

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LG S95TR

Best for Bass

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Vizio V21-H8

Best Cheap Soundbar

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Vizio M-Series 5.1.2

Best Surround Sound Value

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1. Samsung HW-Q990D: Best Overall

Product Specifications: Channels: 11.1.4; Sound Support: Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS:X; Connectivity: HDMI (ARC), optical audio, Bluetooth 5.2, Ethernet port, Wi-Fi; Size (WxHxD): 48.5" x 2.7" x 5.4"; Weight: 17lbs

The Samsung HW-Q990D is widely considered the best soundbar on the market. Its 11 front-facing speakers, powerful subwoofer, and four up-firing drivers deliver a truly cinematic experience. Action scenes are impactful, dialogue is clear, and Dolby Atmos creates immersive sound. It boasts Wi-Fi, Amazon Alexa, Google Chromecast, Apple AirPlay, and features like SpaceFit Sound Pro and Adaptive Sound. HDMI 2.1 support ensures excellent gaming performance. While retailing at $2,000, it frequently goes on sale.

2. Sonos Arc Ultra: Best Dolby Atmos Soundbar

Product Specifications: Channels: 9.1.4; Sound Support: Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD; Connectivity: HDMI (ARC), optical audio, Bluetooth 5.3, Ethernet port, Wi-Fi; Size (WxHxD): 46.38 x 2.95” x 4.35”; Weight: 13.01lbs

The Sonos Arc Ultra builds upon its predecessor with a 9.1.4-channel configuration and 15 Class-D amplifiers. Sonos' SoundMotion technology optimizes performance. The four upfiring drivers create a truly immersive Dolby Atmos experience, even without rear speakers. It delivers excellent music reproduction and features like Speech Enhancement. Its integration into the Sonos ecosystem is a significant advantage, but the cost of building a complete home theater setup reduces its overall value compared to the Samsung HW-Q990D.

3. LG S95TR: Best for Bass

Product Specifications: Channels: 9.1.5; Sound Support: Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital/Plus, DTS:X, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD; Connectivity: HDMI eARC/ARC, digital optical input, 3.5mm auxiliary input, one 3.5mm stereo input, Bluetooth 5.2, Ethernet port, Wi-Fi; Size (WxHxD): 45” x 2.5" x 5.3"; Weight: 12.5lbs

The LG S95TR, while not as immersive as the Samsung HW-Q990D, offers exceptional sound with 17 drivers, including a dedicated center height channel. Its 22lb subwoofer delivers powerful bass, enhancing both movies and music. AI Room Calibration technology optimizes sound for your space, and it works with Apple AirPlay, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant. It's a strong competitor in the high-end soundbar market.

4. Vizio V21-H8: Best Cheap Soundbar

Product Specifications: Channels: 2.1; Sound Support: DTS TruVolume, DTS Virtual:X, Dolby Volume; Connectivity: HDMI (ARC), optical audio, Bluetooth 5.0; Size (WxHxD): 36" x 2.28" x 3.20"; Weight: 4.6lbs

For budget-conscious consumers, the Vizio V21-H8 offers surprisingly good stereo sound. While lacking the immersive qualities of higher-end systems, its simplicity and affordability make it a worthwhile upgrade over built-in TV speakers. It's a basic, no-frills soundbar, perfect for those who prioritize sound quality over extensive features.

5. Vizio M-Series 5.1.2: Best Surround Sound Value

Product Specifications: Channels: 5.1.2; Sound Support: DTS:X, DTS Virtual:X, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital+; Connectivity: HDMI (ARC), optical audio, Bluetooth; Size (WxHxD): 35.98" x 2.24" x 3.54"; Weight: 5.53lbs

Despite its age, the Vizio M-Series 5.1.2 remains a great value for a surround sound system. It features detailed sound, a surprisingly loud 6-inch subwoofer, and Dolby Atmos support with upfiring drivers. While not matching top-tier systems, it provides commendable three-dimensional sound at a budget-friendly price. Its lack of Wi-Fi and wired rear speakers are minor drawbacks.

6. Sonos Beam: Best for Smaller Rooms

Product Specifications: Channels: 5.0; Sound Support: Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos; Connectivity: HDMI (ARC), optical audio, Ethernet port, Wi-Fi; Size (WxHxD): 25.63" x 2.68" x 3.94"; Weight: 6.35lbs

The Sonos Beam is a compact soundbar that delivers impressive sound for its size. It offers clear dialogue, vibrant highs, and decent bass. Its "advanced processing" creates virtual height channels for Dolby Atmos content. Compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple AirPlay 2, along with its expandability within the Sonos ecosystem, makes it a versatile and future-proof choice.

How to Pick a Soundbar

Choosing a soundbar can be overwhelming. Consider these factors:

• Channels: 2.0 offers stereo sound; 2.1 adds a subwoofer; 5.1 and above provide surround sound. More channels generally mean a more immersive experience.
• Connectivity: HDMI ARC/eARC is essential for easy connection to your TV. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enable streaming from other devices. Voice assistant compatibility is another plus.
• Sound Technologies: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Sony 360 Reality Audio offer immersive three-dimensional sound. Look for upfiring drivers, a subwoofer, and rear speakers for optimal Atmos performance.

Best Soundbars FAQs

What’s the difference between 2.0, 2.1, and 5.1 soundbars?

2.0 soundbars have two channels (left and right) and no subwoofer. 2.1 adds a subwoofer for enhanced bass. 5.1 includes five channels (front left, front center, front right, rear left, rear right) and a subwoofer for surround sound.

How do I know if a soundbar is compatible with my TV?

Most soundbars use HDMI ARC or optical audio cables. Check your TV's ports. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are additional connectivity options.

Do I need a subwoofer with my soundbar?

A subwoofer isn't necessary but enhances bass response, especially for movies, music, and gaming.

What is Dolby Atmos, and do I need it?

Dolby Atmos is a three-dimensional surround sound technology. It's not essential but significantly enhances the cinematic experience.

Can I stream music through my soundbar?

Yes, many soundbars offer Bluetooth or Wi-Fi for music streaming.