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 performance without the complexity of a full home theater setup. From powerful Dolby Atmos systems to compact all-in-one solutions, there's a great-sounding option for every need.

With so many choices, selecting the right soundbar can be overwhelming. As a tech journalist who's extensively reviewed soundbars, I've compiled a list of the best options for 2025.

TL;DR: The Best Soundbars

Samsung HW-Q990D

See it at Amazon | Best Buy | Samsung

Sonos Arc Ultra

See it at Amazon | Best Buy | B&H

LG S95TR

See it at Amazon | Best Buy | LG

Vizio V21-H8

See it at Amazon | Walmart

Vizio M-Series 5.1.2

See it at Amazon

Sonos Beam

See it at Amazon | Sonos | Best Buy

1. Samsung HW-Q990D: Best Overall

Samsung HW-Q990D

See it at Amazon | Best Buy | 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 available. 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. Beyond audio quality, it boasts Wi-Fi, Amazon Alexa, Google Chromecast, Apple AirPlay, SpaceFit Sound Pro, and Adaptive Sound. HDMI 2.1 support ensures optimal gaming performance. 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

See it at Amazon | Best Buy | 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 builds upon its predecessor with a 9.1.4 channel configuration and 15 Class-D amplifiers. SoundMotion technology optimizes audio performance. Its four upfiring drivers create a truly immersive Dolby Atmos experience, even without rear speakers. It excels in music reproduction and includes Speech Enhancement. Its integration into the Sonos ecosystem is a major advantage, but the cost of building a complete home theater system with Sonos products makes the Samsung HW-Q990D a better value proposition.

3. LG S95TR: Best for Bass

LG S95TR

See it at Amazon | Best Buy | 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

While not as immersive as the Samsung HW-Q990D, the LG S95TR offers excellent overall sound with 17 drivers, including a dedicated center height channel. Its 22lb subwoofer delivers powerful bass for movies and music. AI Room Calibration technology optimizes sound for your space, and it's compatible with Apple AirPlay, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant. It's a strong competitor in the high-end soundbar market.

4. Vizio V21-H8: Best Cheap Soundbar

Vizio V21-H8

See it at Amazon | 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 provides surprisingly good stereo sound. While lacking immersive surround sound and a dedicated center channel, it offers a significant upgrade over built-in TV speakers. Its simplicity is a key feature; it lacks Wi-Fi and Dolby Atmos but provides basic controls and EQ settings.

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 an excellent value for a surround sound system. It offers detailed sound and a surprisingly loud 6-inch subwoofer. Dolby Atmos support, though not as sophisticated as higher-end models, adds three-dimensional sound. The lack of Wi-Fi and wired rear speakers are drawbacks, but its affordability makes it a compelling option.

6. Sonos Beam: Best for Smaller Rooms

Sonos Beam

See it at Amazon | Sonos | 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 delivers impressive sound quality for its size. It offers clear dialogue, vibrant highs, and decent bass. Dolby Atmos support, achieved through advanced processing, enhances the audio experience. Its compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple AirPlay 2 adds versatility. It’s easily expandable within the Sonos ecosystem, making it an excellent entry point for building a larger home theater system.

How to Pick a Soundbar

Choosing a soundbar involves considering several factors. Channel options (2.0, 2.1, 5.1, etc.) determine the number of speakers and subwoofer included, impacting the surround sound experience. Connectivity options like HDMI ARC, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi are crucial for ease of use and streaming capabilities. Support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, or other advanced audio formats enhances the immersive quality. Consider your budget, room size, and desired features when making your selection.

Best Soundbars FAQs

What’s the difference between 2.0, 2.1, and 5.1 soundbars?
2.0 soundbars offer basic stereo sound; 2.1 adds a subwoofer for enhanced bass; 5.1 provides a full surround sound experience.

How do I know if a soundbar is compatible with my TV?
Check for HDMI ARC or optical audio connections. Bluetooth or Wi-Fi may offer additional connectivity options.

Do I need a subwoofer with my soundbar?
A subwoofer is optional but enhances bass response, particularly beneficial for movies and music.

What is Dolby Atmos, and do I need it?
Dolby Atmos is an object-based surround sound technology that creates a more immersive three-dimensional soundscape.

Can I stream music through my soundbar?
Many soundbars support Bluetooth or Wi-Fi for music streaming from smartphones and other devices.