The Best Soundbars for Building Your Personal Home Theater

Until recently, I believed superior sound quality could only be achieved with dedicated home theater speakers and an amplifier. However, Samsung, Sonos, LG, and other soundbar manufacturers have proven me wrong. Today's soundbars offer revolutionary audio quality, eliminating the need for complex home theater setups. From powerful Dolby Atmos systems to compact all-in-one solutions, there's a perfect soundbar for every need.

With so many options, choosing the right soundbar can be overwhelming. As a tech journalist who has 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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1. Samsung HW-Q990D: Best Overall

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 audio experience. Action scenes are impactful, dialogue is clear, and Dolby Atmos creates immersive soundscapes. Beyond its audio prowess, the Q990D boasts features like built-in Alexa and Chromecast, SpaceFit Sound Pro for room optimization, and Adaptive Sound for scene-based audio adjustments. It also supports HDMI 2.1 for enhanced gaming. While retailing at $2,000, it frequently goes on sale. The slightly older HW-Q990C 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 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 within the soundbar's compact design. The four upfiring drivers deliver exceptional Dolby Atmos immersion, creating a comprehensive soundstage without requiring additional rear speakers. The Arc Ultra excels with music and features like Speech Enhancement. Its integration into the Sonos ecosystem allows for whole-home audio setups. While not as value-driven as the HW-Q990D, its superior audio performance makes it a top contender.

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, with 17 drivers and a 22lb subwoofer, delivers powerful and balanced audio. Its bass performance is exceptional, enhancing action scenes and music. AI Room Calibration optimizes sound for your space, and it integrates with Apple AirPlay, Alexa, and Google Assistant. The S95TR provides a competitive high-end experience with impressive bass and useful features.

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 immersive features, it provides a noticeable upgrade over built-in TV speakers for movies, TV shows, and music. Its simplicity—with basic controls and no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth—makes it a straightforward option for those prioritizing affordability and ease of use.

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

Vizio M-Series 5.1.2

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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

The Vizio M-Series 5.1.2 delivers excellent value for a surround sound system. Its sleek design houses detailed sound and a surprisingly loud 6-inch subwoofer. Dolby Atmos support, albeit not as advanced as higher-end systems, adds three-dimensional audio. The lack of Wi-Fi and wired rear speakers are minor drawbacks, but the overall value remains strong.

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; 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. Clear dialogue, vibrant highs, and decent bass are complemented by virtual Dolby Atmos support. Its compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, and AirPlay 2, along with its expandability within the Sonos ecosystem, makes it a versatile and future-proof option, ideal as an entry point to a larger Sonos setup.

How to Pick a Soundbar

Soundbars offer various channel configurations: 2.0 (stereo), 2.1 (stereo + subwoofer), 5.1 (surround sound), and more. Consider your needs and space. HDMI ARC/eARC is essential for easy TV connection. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enable streaming. Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and other immersive audio formats enhance the cinematic experience. Look for soundbars with upfiring drivers and a subwoofer for optimal Atmos performance.

Best Soundbars FAQs

What’s the difference between 2.0, 2.1, and 5.1 soundbars? 2.0 offers basic stereo; 2.1 adds bass; 5.1 provides surround sound.

How do I know if a soundbar is compatible with my TV? Check for HDMI ARC or optical audio connections.

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

What is Dolby Atmos, and do I need it? Dolby Atmos creates three-dimensional sound.

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