Until recently, I believed that nothing could match the audio quality of a high-end home theater system. But Samsung, Sonos, LG, and other soundbar manufacturers have proven me wrong. Today's soundbars offer incredible sound without the complexity of a full home theater setup. From powerful Dolby Atmos systems to compact all-in-ones, there's a perfect soundbar for every need.
With so many options, choosing the right soundbar can be overwhelming. As a tech journalist who's reviewed countless soundbars, I've compiled a list of the best available in 2025.
TL;DR: The Best Soundbars
Our Top Pick: Samsung HW-Q990D
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Sonos Arc Ultra
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LG S95TR
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Vizio V21-H8
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Vizio M-Series 5.1.2
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Sonos Beam
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Samsung HW-Q990D
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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 also boasts features like SpaceFit Sound Pro, Adaptive Sound, and HDMI 2.1 support for gaming. While retailing at $2,000, it frequently goes on sale. The HW-Q990C, a slightly older model, offers similar performance at a lower price.
2. Sonos Arc Ultra: Best Dolby Atmos Soundbar
Sonos Arc Ultra
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Product Specifications: Channels: 9.1.4; Sound support: Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos (Dolby Digital Plus), Dolby Atmos*, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos; 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 boasts a 9.1.4 channel configuration and SoundMotion technology for exceptional sound. Its four up-firing drivers create a truly immersive Dolby Atmos experience. It delivers excellent music reproduction and features like Speech Enhancement. While it's a fantastic soundbar, the cost of building a complete Sonos home theater system makes the Samsung HW-Q990D a better overall value.
3. LG S95TR: Best for Bass
LG S95TR
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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, delivers excellent sound with a powerful 22lb subwoofer. Its 17 drivers provide a balanced soundstage perfect for movies, TV, and music. AI Room Calibration and compatibility with major voice assistants add to its appeal.
4. Vizio V21-H8: Best Cheap Soundbar
Vizio V21-H8
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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 advanced features like Wi-Fi or Dolby Atmos, it provides a significant upgrade over built-in TV speakers. Its simplicity is a key selling point.
5. Vizio M-Series 5.1.2: Best Surround Sound Value
Vizio M-Series 5.1.2
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. Its Dolby Atmos support, though not top-tier, adds impressive three-dimensional sound. The lack of Wi-Fi and wired rear speakers are minor drawbacks.
6. Sonos Beam: Best for Smaller Rooms
Sonos Beam
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Product Specifications: Channels: 5.0; Sound support: Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos (Dolby Digital Plus), Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD; 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 surprisingly big sound. Its clear dialogue, vibrant highs, and decent bass make it ideal for smaller rooms. Dolby Atmos support adds to its capabilities, and its compatibility with other Sonos devices allows for system expansion.
How to Pick a Soundbar
Soundbar channels range from 2.0 (stereo) to 5.1 (surround) and beyond. Consider your needs: 2.0 or 2.1 for basic TV viewing, 5.1 or higher for immersive movie and gaming experiences. Check for HDMI ARC/eARC, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and other immersive audio formats enhance the experience, but require upfiring speakers and often a subwoofer.
Best Soundbars FAQs
This section includes the FAQs about the differences between 2.0, 2.1, and 5.1 soundbars, compatibility with TVs, the need for a subwoofer, Dolby Atmos, and music streaming capabilities. (The original text provides the answers to these FAQs.)
