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If you’ve invested in a large TV and its speakers aren’t matching the quality of its images, you need one of the best budget soundbars. One of the best soundbars comes with larger, forward-facing speakers that enhance movie immersion and communication clarity. The best part is that they are small and elegant, frequently fitting on a cabinet or wall mounted beneath your TV.
While some TVs might not require one, many of the greatest models available today especially the less expensive ones—need an external soundbar for improved audio. A lot of the greatest soundbars are available in three different styles: single-soundbar all-in-one units, soundbars with subwoofers, and soundbars that combine rear speakers and subwoofers for surround sound. If you want a simple setup, the first is wonderful; if you want large sound on a budget, the second is great; and if you want a true home theater audio experience, the third is great.
More expensive soundbars are equipped with capabilities like wireless connectivity, which is useful for multi-room speaker systems. On the other hand, less priced soundbars use an HDMI or optical digital connection to play audio from your TV. Over the years, we’ve evaluated hundreds of soundbars and speaker systems, ranging from high-end models featuring Dolby Atmos 3D audio to inexpensive soundbars that enhance your audio quality.
Quick List
Need to locate the best budget soundbars for you quickly? Check out our short selection below, which includes soundbars for every need and price range. Further in-depth analyses of every soundbar are still available to read below.
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Sony HT-S2000 Soundbar BEST OVERALL
- SURROUND SOUND IN A COMPACT DESIGN: Get an immersive audio experience with support for Dolby...
- HOME ENTERTAINMENT CONNECT APP: Manage your home theater experience from the palm of your...
- IMMERSIVE SURROUND SOUND: Built-in dual subwoofers for enhanced bass, three front speakers, and...
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- Very clear and effective dialogue
- Compatibility with spatial audio codecs
- Value improvement due to price reductions
Cons
- No Wi-Fi or AirPlay support
- Voice Assistant is absent
Specifcations
| Dimensions: | 800 X 64 X 124 mm(31 1 / 2 in x 2 5 / 8 in x 5 in) |
| Speaker configuration: | 3.1 |
| Claimed audio power: | 250W |
| Connections: | HDMI eARC x 1, optical digital x 1, USB x1, Bluetooth |
SONY HT-S2000 – Overview
The Sony HT-S2000 is our pick for the best affordable option when it comes to features and sound quality compared to price. It’s a fantastic option for those wishing to update their TV sound without going over budget, even though its connectivity is a touch limited. The soundbar delivers impressive quality for the money.
Sound quality of the Sony HT-S2000 is good considering its price point, even though it doesn’t have the loudest sound. Two notable aspects of the HT-S2000 are its distinct dialogue levels and its expansive, simulated surround sound. Although the Sony HT-S2000’s bass levels are sufficiently strong, what really stands out is how well it can replicate Dolby Atmos sounds. For a 3.1 soundbar, it gives plenty; but, it won’t surpass a soundbar with height channels.
The Sony HT-S2000 has a solid, mesh metal grill on the front and a robust black plastic casing that houses the speakers. In terms of design, it feels and appears more costly than it is. It is uncommon for inexpensive soundbars to generate visual feedback in response to remote control commands, but this one does.
Value: Although the HT-S2000 won’t blow everyone away with its sound and isn’t the greatest soundbar on this list, it’s difficult to argue against paying this much for a soundbar that has this much quality of sound.
JBL Bar 1300X Soundbar BEST FLEXIBILITY
- True Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and MultiBeam Surround Sound: Immerse yourself in theater-quality 3D...
- Real surround sound with detachable surround speakers: Enjoy real surround sound without the...
- Built-In Wi-Fi with AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music and Chromecast built-in: Get ready to...
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- DTS:X and Dolby Atmos audio processing
- Wireless surround speakers that refuel
- Four HDMI ports (plus one eARC port)
Cons
- Pricey
- Lack of HDMI 120Hz 4K pass-through
- Surround speakers require routine charging
Specifcations
| Dimensions: | 1376 x 60 x 139 mm (W x H x D) |
| Speaker configuration: | 11.1.4 |
| Claimed audio power: | 1170W |
| Connections: | HDMI (eARC), Optical in, Bluetooth, USB |
JBL BAR 1300X – Overview
What you should know: The JBL Bar 1300X offers an amazing degree of adaptability. In comparison to other soundbars on the market, this one is incredibly adaptable because to the connections and capabilities it packs inside its larger-than-average subwoofer, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, and huge, muscular sound. The lone drawback? Serious gamers won’t be comfortable with this soundbar. Although this device has several HDMI connections, none of them enable 4K 120Hz pass-through, which is a feature that our top pick for the best gaming soundbar has. This allows you to play games on your PS5 or Xbox Series X at that resolution and frame rate.
Audio performance: The JBL Bar 1300X is a powerful and immersive soundbar option that we believe would be ideal for anyone looking for something that doesn’t take up too much space in your living room. It’s especially suitable for those who want the visceral excitement that the best home theater systems effortlessly deliver.
Design: The JBL Bar 1300X doesn’t take up much room, but we wouldn’t suggest it in smaller homes because it’s meant to fill larger spaces with sound. Not only can you attach a ton of additional sources without worrying about overloading the HDMI ports, but the system’s rechargeable rear speakers double as portable Bluetooth speakers. For others, that feature may be a “so what?” but we see it as a design flex that adds to the total value of the Bar 1300X.
Value: The JBL Bar 1300X is priced similarly to the Samsung HW-Q800C, which is ranked #1 on this list, but it makes up for it with a ton of flexibility. This is one of the most versatile soundbars we’ve encountered, with features like multiple HDMI connections, rechargeable rear speakers that double as bluetooth speakers, and simple setup and immersive sound. (Note: The JBL Bar 1300, which lacks the X and includes a smaller 10-inch subwoofer driver in place of the 12-inch in the X model, is available in select regions. This is a negligibly tiny distinction that doesn’t change our assessment as a whole.)
Polk MagniFi Mini AX Soundbar BEST AFFORDABLE
- POWERFUL SOUND FROM AN ULTRA COMPACT SOUND BAR - Featuring an advanced five-speaker array and...
- COMPLETE WIRELESS HOME ENTERTAINMENT - Experience high-quality music streaming from your phone,...
- HEAR EVERY WORD CLEARLY - Polk's patented VoiceAdjust speech-clarifying technology works with...
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- Strong sound in relation to size
- Subwoofer’s powerful bass
- Many possibilities for wireless streaming
Cons
- Spatial audio is unsatisfactory
Specifcations
| Dimensions: | 4.09 x 14.41 x 3.11 (W x H x D) |
| Speaker configuration: | 5.1 |
| Maximum Output Power: | 10 Watts |
| Connections: | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Optical, HDMI |
POLK MAGNIFI MINI AX – Overview
Editor’s Choice
With the incredibly little Polk MagniFi Mini AX in sight, you might not have high expectations. However, in our brand-secret tests, this soundbar performed better than more expensive, larger, feature-rich versions that were difficult for listeners to discern based alone on size. Despite being only 14.5 inches wide, the soundbar’s digital signal processing (DSP) technology allowed it to create a surround-sound impression that, in some situations, sounded more realistic (if less dramatic) than soundbars that used separate surround speakers.
Compact subwoofer included in the bundle produced powerful, deep bass that was pleasing and sounded better with music than most soundbars. It also performed better than its size would imply. The immersive audio formats Dolby Atmos and DTS:X are compatible with the MagniFi Mini AX. It can also broadcast audio wirelessly using Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, and Bluetooth.
It does not have a dedicated HDMI input to connect a source directly, but it does include the basic connection choices we want to see: HDMI eARC, optical digital audio, and analog audio. There is a surround speaker option available.
TCL Alto R1 Wireless Soundbar BEST VALUE
- EXCLUSIVELY FOR ROKU TV: Requires a Roku TV. Expandable with Roku Wireless Subwoofer. Does not...
- SIMPLE WIRELESS SETUP WITH ANY ROKU TV: The simple wireless setup means no running cables or...
- UNBOXING TO LISTENING IN MINUTES: Inside the box you’ll find a quick start guide, power...
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- Powerful, balanced sound
- Easy to set up
- Can be augmented with a Roku Wireless Subwoofer
Cons
- Requires a Roku TV
- TV needs to be on in order to use the speaker
Specifcations
| Channels: | Stereo |
| Bluetooth: | ✔️ |
| Wi-Fi: | ✔️ |
| Multi-Room: | ❌ |
| Physical Connections: | None |
| Portable: | ❌ |
| Water-Resistant: | ❌ |
| Speakerphone: | ❌ |
| Built-In Voice Assistant: | None |
TCL ALTO R1 WIRELESS – Overview
TCL’s debut in the wireless soundbar market tailored for Roku TVs is signaled by the Alto R1 from Roku. The Alto R1 provides strong audio performance without the need for extra wires or ports, and it connects effortlessly to Roku TVs including TCL’s R6-Series and Hisense’s R7G series. Its 2.0-channel stereo system, driven by two 30W drivers and two 25W drivers, produces remarkably good sound quality for its price range, even though it does not enable spatial audio or simulated surround sound. Users can also combine the soundbar with Roku’s Wireless Subwoofer to improve bass response.
The Alto R1 sports a sleek, simple design with a front covered in a black grille fabric and a matte black plastic chassis. With dimensions of 2.5 by 31.5 by 3.9 inches, it can be placed under most TV screens with ease and provides a subdued yet potent audio solution. Users of Roku TVs will find it easy to set up the soundbar because it automatically connects and updates its firmware when the soundbar is plugged in and the TV’s wireless audio setup menu is activated. It is important to keep in mind, though, that the Alto R1 can only be used with Roku TVs; a Roku TV is required in order for it to function.
Although it lacks the accuracy of directional imaging found in more expensive soundbars, the Alto R1 impresses with its capacity to create loud and clear sound in terms of audio performance. It has a strong bass response and a broad sound field despite its small size, while distortion could appear at higher volume levels. All things considered, the TCL Alto R1 offers Roku TV owners looking for a hassle-free, more cheap audio update without the complexities of multi-component installations.
Roku Streambar Pro Soundbar BEST BUDGET
- Built-in 4K streaming: Enjoy an easy interface with channels that launch in a snap—all in...
- Cinematic sound: Enjoy a cinematic experience with expanded frequency range, dynamic bass, and...
- Watch what you love: Stream a massive selection of free, live, and premium TV, including Roku...
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- Simple to setup and use
- Decent bass without a subwoofer
- Wide sound
Cons
- No Dolby Atmos support
- sometimes sluggish streaming performance
Specifcations
| Dimensions: | 32.2 x 3.9 x 2.8inches (W x H x D) |
| Inputs: | Optical digital audio, HDMI ARC, USB |
| Bluetooth: | No |
| HDMI: | Yes |
| Subwoofer: | No |
Roku Streambar Pro – Overview
The Roku Streambar Pro, one of Roku’s first audio offerings, is a remarkable gadget that condenses a 4K Roku streaming player into a small soundbar. To fill your living area, virtual surround sound is available straight out of the box. Considering that there is no subwoofer included in the kit, the bass is respectable. It also includes one of the easiest-to-use remote controls out there, with a headphone connector for private listening and a voice search button.
The absence of Dolby Atmos compatibility will let down consumers who want a more engaging audio experience. The slow performance when navigating the menus and app will also continue. However, this is a great price because the speaker has Roku capabilities in addition to high-quality sound.
How to Choose The Best Budget Soundbar For You
How We Tested The Best Budget Soundbars
FAQs: Best Budget Soundbars
How can I get the optimum sound from a soundbar?
Getting the finest sound from a soundbar isn’t difficult, but there are some basic placement considerations. Along with the installation instructions provided by the manufacturer, the design of the soundbar should provide some indication of how best to situate it in your home.
For over three decades, as an audio editor, I’ve been testing and writing about speakers. The first thing to understand about loudspeakers is that they require space to function properly. This is especially critical if your soundbar features upward or side-firing drivers, as shown in our best Dolby Atmos soundbars buying guide.
Placing a soundbar behind a TV or in line with any other items is never a smart idea because it will reduce the speakers’ ability to project sound forward to your seating area. Also, if you install a soundbar too far within a TV cabinet, it will not efficiently convey sound to your sofa. The TV cabinet enclosure may also have an adverse effect on overall sound quality.
In general, a soundbar should be placed centrally with the screen (this is also aesthetically pleasing) in as much empty space as possible. It can be placed above or below the television screen. Many soundbar owners install the soundbar beneath the screen, at the base of the TV stand. This close closeness between sound and screen creates the illusion that the sound and image are coming from the same location and are in sync.
If you’re mounting a soundbar on top of a TV stand just beneath the screen, take careful not to foul the bottom of the screen and obscure the lower part of the image. This may also interfere with signals sent to the IR sensor by your remote control. If this occurs, a reasonable remedy is to lift the TV slightly or place the soundbar on a lower shelf of the television stand. whether the soundbar interferes with the TV’s IR sensor, check to see whether it comes with a repeater.
Most soundbars are tabletop devices, which means they can be easily installed on TV cabinets and take up little room. Certain soundbars can also be wall mounted; however, before doing so, examine the manufacturer’s instructions and take any structural considerations into account.
Last but not least, notice if your soundbar has any rear bass ports or rear speakers intended, instance, to reflect sound off adjacent walls behind the TV. In order for these to function properly, they should ideally be kept close to any wall constructions but far enough away from any immediate obstacles that could obscure the speaker’s soundwaves.
To ensure you’re receiving the best performance and sound quality out of your particular soundbar speaker system, always refer to the maker’s recommendations for positioning advice.
Why Trust Factic
Berry Alex has been evaluating, testing, and reviewing tech, Household and travel items for several decades. He compiled all of the testers’ input, conducted extra research to assess each phone mount’s essential features and overall functioning, and reviewed professional profiles and verified customer reviews for each product.
