Best soundbars Android Central 2021
The soundbar has come a long ways in the past few years. They offer great sound, but take up much less space and are far cheaper than traditional speakers. The best soundbars are affordable, have the best streaming devices and smart assistants, and can produce powerful sound without the need for rear speakers or subwoofers. You will be amazed at the Sonos Beam's huge sound quality in a small package that is affordable. But, there are many other options.
Source: Sonos
The Sonos Beam is a soundbar that offers the most advanced features and the best soundbar. The Sonos Beam can be connected to your TV via HDMI-ARC, or the HDMI-to-Optical adapter. Recent updates have made it possible to integrate Sonos products with Google Assistant. If your TV supports HDMI CEC, which most modern TVs do, you can control your TV using your voice. Although it is not a substitute for a remote control, controlling your TV using your voice is an excellent alternative. Because it is easy to add speakers to create surround sound, Sonos' ecosystem appeals to many. You'll also get one HDMI port, one Ethernet port and the standard AC power supply. Sonos Beam is a great soundbar that you can use as a starting point. You can then purchase a couple more Sonos One speakers to expand your channel range a few months later. You can also buy a Sonos5.1 kit that includes everything you need to create the best soundbar system. A subwoofer is a must if you want to enjoy better "lows" when watching movies or playing video games. You can immerse yourself in the content you are watching or playing by adding more punch to dramatic scenes. The Beam can create a large soundstage and an effective low-end sound by itself, as we found in our Sonos Beam review. The pros: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and more
Integration with other Sonos speakers
Lightweight
Excellent sound Cons: There is no subwoofer
If HDMI-ARC is not available, an optical cable will be required
With optical cable, voice commands are not possible
The Sonos Beam Smart TV sound bar is the best overall. It has Alexa support and can pair with other Sonos speakers. Best Buy: $400
Microsoft: $399
Best for Sonos enthusiasts: Sonos Arc
Source: Sonos
The original Sonos speakers were only portable Bluetooth speakers that could be paired to your smartphone. Now, they can be used all around the house. After launching the Sonos Arc, Sonos is now a household name in TV audio. The homeowner has access to eight woofers and three tweeters as well as a total of 11 amps, for a truly immersive sound. The far-field microphone can be used in conjunction with your preferred voice assistant. You only need two cables to connect the Arc to enjoy its amazingness. This is a great option if you don’t mind a simple setup. The Playbar has one Ethernet port, an HDMI ARC (with the included cable) and an Optical Audio connection. You can also connect the Arc with other Sonos speakers to create surround-sound effects. This is a great option and we have almost nothing to praise it for in our Sonos Arc Review, especially when it plays Dolby atmos content. It sounds amazing from a soundbar with no rear speakers. The Arc has a few drawbacks, however. The first is its size and weight. It weighs more than 13 lbs and measures 45 inches in width. You'll need plenty of space and wall anchors. There is also no subwoofer, so your movie may not have as much punch. The pros: It can be mounted on a wall
Integration with other Sonos speakers
There are only two cables needed to hook up
Uses Google Assistant, Alexa and Apple Airplay 2
Dolby Atmos-compatible cons: May not be suitable for TVs below 49 inches
Expensive
Subwoofer not included
Sonos Arc – The Premium Smart Soundbar - Best for Sonos fans. Sonos has a great soundbar with smarts. Amazon: Starting at $1,140
Best Buy: $900
$899 at Sonos
Roku Streambar is the best all-in-one device:
There are a few streaming boxes available right now, including the Chromecast With Google TV, which is our favorite Android TV box. No matter whether you use Chromecasts or Fire Sticks or Rokus for streaming, there will be two HDMI ports to power your soundbar and streaming box. This is because you may have multiple gaming consoles, cable boxes or Blu-Ray players that you want to connect. Roku Streambar offers the perfect soundbar solution. It can be connected to any HDMI ARC-compatible port of your 4K TV to allow you to enjoy 4K HDR content, enhanced audio, and streaming via a Roku Stick+. The compact size allows it to be easily slipped under any TV. Side-firing drivers allow for decent sound quality in a room. To upgrade to surround sound, you can buy a subwoofer or wireless speakers. Another Roku device is the best choice for this slot, the Roku Smart Soundbar. The Roku Smart Soundbar vs. Streambar was compared and the Streambar won. Although the Smart Soundbar's front-facing drivers measure 2.5 inches longer, the soundbar measures more than twice as long. Other than that, there are no other benefits to it over its cheaper sibling. The Roku Streambar is the only one that offers an optional ethernet adapter to provide more consistent streaming speeds. Pros: 4K HDR streaming
HDMI ARC support
Compatible with Alexa or Google Assistant
Expandable with wireless and subwoofer speakers
Dolby Audio Cons - No wireless subwoofer included
Ethernet adapter sold separately
Best Roku Streambar Streambar – All In One. The Roku Streambar will provide you with the ultimate all-in one home theater system. Amazon: $129
Best Buy - $130
Walmart: $129
TCL Alto 8+ is the best Fire TV receiver:
Source: TCL
The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is one of the most popular streaming devices, as it was evident over the years. What if we said that you could have one built into your soundbar? The TCL Alto8+ will give you that option. TCL is well-known for making soundbars of the highest quality, but the Alto 8+ combines streaming TV with an excellent audio experience to enjoy 4K content. Although the Alto 8+ might not be very impressive, there are some extra tricks you will find with this soundbar. One, the built-in subwoofer means you don't need to run extra cables or pay extra for better bass. The software also offers three sound modes, which provide optimized sound for movies and music as well as news. The TCL Alto 8+ is not perfect. This soundbar doesn't support Dolby Atmos. It's disappointing that TCL has missed the mark with soundbars getting more of this support. A single HDMI port is also a potential problem. Although this may not seem like a big deal to some people, it can be frustrating if you plan on using the device with your PS5. Pros: Built-in Fire TV 4K
Alexa Voice Remote included
Subwoofer built-in
There are many sound modes to choose from.
One HDMI port
It does not have Wi-Fi connectivity
Best for Fire TV TCL Alto8+ Built-in TV The TCL Alto8+ soundbar features a built in Fire TV and Alexa smarts, as well as the Voice Remote. Amazon: $184
$132 at Newegg
Bose Smart Soundbar 300 is the best choice for Bose lovers
Source: Bose
Bose has been around for quite some time but its home theatre audio options were often priced beyond many potential buyers' budgets. The Bose Smart Soundbar 300 system is a good example of this. The soundbar measures 2"x27"x4" and is priced to be competitive with the Sonos Beam, but offers the same premium Bose features as the more expensive models. The Bose Smart Soundbar 300 is a compact soundbar that produces distortion-free, high-quality sound. It has four full-range drivers with a central tweeter. You can also use the mic to connect to Alexa or Google Assistant and control your TV, cable box, or answer calls. It also supports Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect and Bose SimpleSync, which allows you to connect your best Bose headphones. You can pair your 300 with other Bose Bluetooth speakers, or purchase a Bose Bass Modul or Surround Speakers to create a complete home theater system. Although these can be more expensive, we like that the Smart Soundbar 300 can function as an audio experience on its own until you have the budget to add new audio technology. The Smart Soundbar 300 can be used in conjunction with Bose wireless speakers or subwoofers
Support for Alexa and Assistant built-in
Bluetooth connectivity allows music streaming
Bose soundbars are more affordable than previous models. Cons: There is no subwoofer.
Some might find it too small
Bose Smart Soundbar300 is the best soundbar for Bose enthusiasts. The Bose Smart Soundbar300 is Bose’s attempt to compete with Sonos using a compact soundbar that costs less than its luxury range. Amazon: $449
Best Buy: $450
Walmart: $450
Yamaha YAS-209BL Soundbar is the best for surround sound.
Source: Yamaha
Yamaha has produced some of the most impressive soundbar options over the years. The Yamaha YAS-209BL Soundbar is a great example of Yamaha's experience. The Yamaha 209BL Soundbar offers three-dimensional surround sound. The 209BL's DTS VirtualX will fill your entire room with sound to immerse you in the action and make it feel like you're part of the movie. Yamaha includes Bluetooth streaming music and the option to use the remote or accompanying smartphone app. The bundle also includes a wireless subwoofer, which can be used to provide the perfect amount of bass for your favourite TV shows, movies, and music playlists. The 209BL is a great product in many aspects, but there are some frustrating shortcomings. First, there are only three inputs. One HDMI is for input and one for output. The second frustration is the lack of digital optical output ports. You will be restricted to Amazon Alexa as a smart home assistant, although it is already included. Users of Apple AirPlay 2 and Google Assistant will not be able take advantage. Yamaha also hasn't included support for all music streaming services like Apple Music, TIDAL or YouTube Music. Pros: Wireless subwoofer available
Virtual surround sound
Amazon Alexa integrated for voice control
You can use the remote or application that comes with your phone. Cons: Not compatible with all music-streaming services
Multi-room systems not supported
Ports for input/output are limited
Best soundbar for surround sound Yamaha YAS-209BL Soundbar Almost Perfect The Yamaha 209BL soundbar is almost perfect between the subwoofers and virtual 3D sounds. However, there are still some compromises. Amazon: $350
Best Buy: $350
B&H: $350
Polk Audio Signa S3 is the best for Google Assistant
Source: Polk Audio
Polk is another company that takes pride in providing excellent audio experiences throughout your home. The Signa S3 Sound Bar does not disappoint and offers a few unique features that other soundbars can't match. The Command Bar features an ARC-compatible HDMI and an auxiliary cable. Google Assistant is built into the Command Bar, and it also includes smart home integration. You'll also have the added benefit the Chromecast has (but this will only allow you to stream music over WiFi, not video). Signa S3 comes with a wireless subwoofer that allows you to get more bass out of your media without having to run additional wires. Although controlling your TV and soundbar using one remote is quite handy, we would prefer a stronger remote from Polk. You can only use the included remote to control your TV and soundbar, but it does not offer any shortcuts to Netflix or other streaming apps. This soundbar only has one HDMI port, so those who wish to connect multiple devices to the Signa S3 won't be disappointed. Con: Chromecast built-in
Included Wireless Subwoofer
One remote control to control your TV or soundbar
Universal TV Compatibility with HDMI ARC Cons
One HDMI port is included
Polk Audio Signa S3 is the best for Google Assistant. It is slim, powerful, and smart. The Signa S3 also includes Dolby Digital5.1. Amazon: $230
Best Buy: $280
Walmart: $279
JBL Bar 5.1 is the best for wireless surround sound.
Source: JBL
Google Assistant has been a huge success. It's even better that there are more products that integrate Assistant so it can be even more useful. This is evident in the JBL Bar 5.1, which was created by Google and integrated Google Assistant and Google Cast support. There are three HDMI ports onboard and an HDMI Arc output option. JBL included a privacy switch to protect your microphone from being heard by the soundbar. The wireless surround sound speakers, which can be detached from the main soundbar, are one of the best features. These surround sound speakers can be mounted in various areas of your room and charged with the main soundbar. Although the soundbar is a favourite, there were some compromises. This soundbar is currently not available to be added to your Google Home Groups. This won't affect your purchase but it is something you should be aware of when purchasing this soundbar. The wireless speakers of the Bar 5.1 have micro-USB charging, but not USB-C. This is just disappointing. The pros: Wireless surround speakers
Subwoofer wireless 10-inch
Three HDMI inputs
Switch sound instantly between devices.
It can be difficult to find the right configuration.
Plastic design
JBL Bar5.1 delivers wireless surround sound. Google Assistant is integrated in JBL's Bar5.1. This great option is for people who don't want to use wires but still enjoy great surround sound. Amazon: $500
Best Buy: $500
Walmart: $500
Best for Samsung TVs: Samsung HW-Q800T Soundbar
Source: Samsung
It can be annoying to have to switch between EQ levels depending on the content being viewed. Samsung's HWQ800T Soundbar will take away all of your worries. The soundbar features Adaptive Sound Mode that automatically adjusts the EQ levels based upon what you're watching. The only catch is that the Q800T must be connected to one of the top Samsung TVs with the QLED models. Even if you don’t own one of these TVs, the Q800T is still worth considering. It has passthrough 4K compatibility and Dolby Atmos/DTS:X support. The connections are simple: Samsung offers a single HDMI input and one HDMI output. There is also an optical input and Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity. The Q800T was a success. However, the remote is a potential problem. It was designed to control all your Samsung home theatre products. However, it isn't as reliable as the previous versions. You can replace the remote with your smartphone using the Samsung SmartThings App. For those who are more wealthy, there are better options. There is the Samsung HWQ900T annual follow up that upgrades from a 3.1.2ch to 7.1.2ch setup for improved sound and the HWQ950T 9.1.4ch soundbar that has actual rear speakers that can be used for Atmos. Although it's a great soundbar, it's almost twice the price of the HW-Q800T which is already too expensive for most people. The HW-Q800T will satisfy even non-audiophiles. Pros of Dolby Atmos/DTSX Support
Alexa built-in
Wireless subwoofer
Built-in 4K Passthrough
Some Bluetooth connectivity cons: Samsung TVs only can use certain functions
Remote included is not reliable
Samsung HW-Q800T soundbar is the best choice for Samsung TVs. However, it requires a Samsung TV to use the Samsung Q800T soundbar. Amazon: $433
$898 at B&H Photo
Walmart: $429
Panasonic SoundSlayer is the best for gaming
Source: Michael Hicks / Android Central
All of our soundbars can play console games with no problem. But if you want a small, powerful soundbar that will fit comfortably on your desk, blast out Android or PC gaming soundtracks, the Panasonic SoundSlayer is your best bet. This soundbar is compatible with Dolby Atmos and measures 17.5" by 2.1.1ch. It can be inserted under your gaming monitor. The compact size and upward-firing Atmos speaker make it an ideal fit for offices or gaming dens. We were impressed by the sound quality of the Panasonic SoundSlayer, particularly when it was using the 3D surround sound option. Although it won't be as efficient as gaming headsets for audio directional, dialogues sound clear and the audio is excellent at high volumes. It also supports 4K HDR passthrough from a graphics card. It can be connected to your smartphone for Bluetooth streaming and Android game audio. It's a small, handy device that's quite useful. However, it is quite expensive for a gaming soundbar due to Atmos. We were happy with the sound quality and preferred the compact size of an all-in one device. However, gamers who love loud explosions will not appreciate the absence of a subwoofer/sub-out port. If you want more bass at a cheaper price, then the Razer Leviathan and Sound BlasterX Katana are better options. Pros: High FPS and 3D mode significantly enhance performance
Compact size fits great on a desk
Passthrough for 4K HDR
Dolby Atmos Cons at an affordable price: A gaming soundbar is more expensive
No dedicated subwoofer
VIZIO M Series 5.1 Sound Bar with Dolby atmos and DTSX (M51ax - J6) is the best for Dolby Audio on a tight budget.
Source: Vizio
The best Dolby Atmos soundbars can cost well over a million dollars, while cheaper Atmos-compatible soundbars can only reproduce a small amount of 3D audio. The Vizio soundbar includes the subwoofer, rear speakers and amplifiers that will bounce sound around your living space. However, it does not come at a premium price. We praised the Atmos performance of Vizio SB36512-F6 in our Vizio SB36512-F6 Review for adding "completely different depth" to movie soundtracks, and filling a space with distinct objects that a standalone 3.0ch soundbar cannot match. However, it had issues with the remote control as well as Vizio SmartCast. Vizio's M-Series 5.1 Sound Bar is a newer version that retains the best of its predecessor, but also improves upon its weaknesses. The M51axJ6 provides a similar experience, but without the fussy remote control. DTS:X is also available, which adds even more depth and sound quality to the experience. The Vizio M51ax J6 is not the best Atmos experience. However, the Samsung HWQ90R and LG SN11RG are better than the Vizio M51axJ6. They'll only cost you an additional thousand dollars. We don't recommend spending that much money on Atmos content, as it is still very niche. Vizio's soundbar is still superior to many other soundbars in terms of its rich, wide soundstage. Con: Simple to set up
Rear speakers and subwoofer available at a cheap price
Dolby Atmos compatible
Google Assistant and Bluetooth Support Cons: One HDMI input
There is no AirPlay or Alexa support
Best for Dolby Atmos on budget VIZIO M Series 5.1 Sound Bar (Dolby Atmos) (M51ax:J6). This soundbar is Atmos-compatible and will blow up your soundstage, but not your budget. Regular surround sound will feel dull and static compared to Vizio's Atmos compatible soundbar. Amazon: $328
Best Buy: $330
Walmart: $328
TCL Alto 6 is the best option for those with tight budgets
Source: TCL
Many people don't have the time or the desire to spend the money to find the best soundbars at a reasonable price. The TCL Alto 6 will suit those with a lower budget who still want to enjoy a superior audio experience. The Alto 6 is 31.5 inches in length, which makes it an ideal choice for people with limited space. You can choose from several sound modes that will work with your content. There are five buttons on the soundbar for making adjustments. If you're looking to maximize the soundbar's versatility, the Alto 6 can be used as a Bluetooth speaker or Dolby Digital processor. The Alto 6 also has Roku TV built in, which gives it bonus points. You can use the HDMI ARC port if you don't wish to use the Optical cable for your TV's audio needs. At this price, there is no built-in subwoofer, or satellite speakers. This leaves you with a basic soundbar experience. It does not have Dolby Atmos, which isn't surprising given the price. The Alto 6's downside is the inability to control it using Google Assistant or any other smart assistant. Pros: Compact design
Features Optical, 3.5mm jack, Bluetooth
There are many sound modes to choose from
Roku TV built in Cons: Does not have a subwoofer
No Dolby Atmos support
Supports no voice assistant
TCL Alto 6 is the best budget soundbar. Amazon: $80
Best Buy: $80
Walmart: $80
