The Best Soundbars for Building Your Personal Home Theater

Until recently, I believed that nothing could match the audio quality of a high-end home theater system. I was wrong. Samsung, Sonos, LG, and other leading brands have redefined soundbars, delivering exceptional audio 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.

But with so many options, choosing the right one 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

See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Samsung

Sonos Arc Ultra

LG S95TR

Vizio V21-H8

Vizio M-Series 5.1.2

Sonos Beam

1. Samsung HW-Q990D: Best Overall

Samsung HW-Q990D

See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Samsung

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, SpaceFit Sound Pro, and Adaptive Sound. HDMI 2.1 support ensures a smooth gaming experience. While retailing at $2,000, it frequently goes on sale.

2. Sonos Arc Ultra: Best Dolby Atmos Soundbar

Sonos Arc Ultra

See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at B&H

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 boasts a 9.1.4 channel configuration and 15 Class-D amplifiers. Its SoundMotion technology optimizes audio performance. Four upfiring drivers create a truly immersive Dolby Atmos experience. It delivers excellent music reproduction and features like Speech Enhancement. The ability to expand into a whole-home audio system is a key advantage, although this adds to the overall cost.

3. LG S95TR: Best for Bass

LG S95TR

See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at LG

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 offers a powerful and balanced soundstage with 17 drivers, including a dedicated center height channel. Its 22lb subwoofer delivers exceptional bass performance, perfect for action movies and music. It includes AI Room Calibration and works with Apple AirPlay, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant.

4. Vizio V21-H8: Best Cheap Soundbar

Vizio V21-H8

See it at AmazonSee it at Walmart

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 and Dolby Atmos, it provides a noticeable upgrade over built-in TV speakers. Its simplicity and ease of use make it a great entry-level option.

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

Vizio M-Series 5.1.2

See it at Amazon

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 strong value proposition for surround sound. It delivers well-balanced audio with a surprisingly loud subwoofer and offers Dolby Atmos support, albeit not as sophisticated as higher-end models. The lack of Wi-Fi and wired rear speakers are minor drawbacks.

6. Sonos Beam: Best for Smaller Rooms

Sonos Beam

See it at AmazonSee it at SonosSee it at Best Buy

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 punches above its weight. It offers clear dialogue, vibrant highs, and decent bass for its size. It utilizes processing to create virtual height channels for Dolby Atmos. Compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple AirPlay 2 adds versatility. It’s easily expandable within the Sonos ecosystem.

How to Pick a Soundbar

Soundbars offer various channel options to simulate surround sound. 2.0 systems provide stereo sound, suitable for smaller spaces. 2.1 adds a subwoofer for enhanced bass. 5.1 and higher offer more immersive surround sound, often with additional speakers and subwoofers.

Consider connectivity options: HDMI ARC/eARC simplifies setup, while Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enable streaming. Voice assistant compatibility is another factor. Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Sony 360 Reality Audio are advanced sound technologies to look for.

Best Soundbars FAQs

What’s the difference between 2.0, 2.1, and 5.1 soundbars? 2.0 has two channels; 2.1 adds a subwoofer; 5.1 includes five channels and a subwoofer for surround sound.

How do I know if a soundbar is compatible with my TV? Check for HDMI ARC/optical audio connections. Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or AirPlay may also be supported.

Do I need a subwoofer with my soundbar? A subwoofer enhances bass response, especially beneficial for movies, music, and gaming.

What is Dolby Atmos, and do I need it? Dolby Atmos is a 3D surround sound technology that creates a more immersive experience.

Can I stream music through my soundbar? Many soundbars support Bluetooth or Wi-Fi for music streaming.