Grabbing a soundbar underneath $300 is an effective way to immerse your self within the sweeping scores of your favourite films and the punchy dialogue of your comfort-watch sitcoms. Bypassing any built-in audio system your tv may need, soundbars can improve and elevate your viewing expertise by enhancing the stereo discipline and even increasing it considerably. Whereas there are a number of high-end (learn costly) fashions on the market, you don’t have to lay our a fortune to enhance your own home theater’s audio. Reasonably priced soundbars can nonetheless ship a high-quality listening expertise with 5.1 channel methods, a number of connectivity choices, and wi-fi playback capabilities. Past any particular options, the perfect soundbars underneath $300 can be compact and straightforward to put in, offering extra amplification and readability to any soundtrack, rating, or scene.
How we chosen the perfect soundbars underneath $300
The PopSci employees has spent lots of time researching and testing budget-friendly audio merchandise; everybody deserves entry to standout sound, so we pleasure ourselves on realizing what to search for to make sure all private audio we suggest will go well with listeners of assorted varieties. We appeared for tempting specs and options such as you’d discover in luxurious fashions however targeted most on connectivity choices, multi-channel methods, audio codecs, and consumer impressions, in addition to some first-hand expertise. We made certain to solely suggest merchandise from respected manufacturers like Vizio and Roku, which have confirmed they’re devoted to growing and incorporating reasonably priced audio know-how.
Issues to contemplate earlier than shopping for among the finest soundbars underneath $300
As televisions grew to become slimmer and flat screens took over our properties, the necessity for added amplification grew. With out additional room contained in the TV, it grew to become more durable to include suitably sized audio system, ensuing within the degradation of audio high quality. Enter the soundbar, which is virtually assured to reinforce the viewing expertise as a result of they’ve one job: to make your content material sound higher. Whether or not you’re simply on the lookout for a little bit of a bass enhance or a revelatory residence theatre expertise, you’ll need to think about a couple of key options earlier than buying.
Dimension
Probably the most widespread questions requested by people getting down to discover the suitable soundbar for his or her tv is, “What measurement ought to I get?” Whereas there isn’t a one-size-fits-all reply, relaxation assured that soundbars are designed to be a compact, aesthetically pleasing approach to enhance audio, that means you don’t want to fret about some monstrously sized speaker taking on half the lounge. The widespread rule is don’t decide a mannequin that’s longer than your tv. You need your soundbar to take a seat sleekly beneath the display to take care of correct directionality and discrete connectivity. A unit that pokes out past the corners of your television or hangs over the sting of your console is at greatest an eyesore and at worst a hazard. Attempt to persist with the display measurement as a guiding ruler even when you’ve got a smaller tv. Soundbar measurement doesn’t essentially point out sound high quality, so bigger isn’t inherently higher. And, with the suitable mannequin, you possibly can increase your unit to incorporate a subwoofer, or extra speaker fills in the event you really feel such as you want extra out of your slim soundbar.
Connectivity
Most soundbars presently in the marketplace have a number of choices for connectivity—the most well-liked being HDMI cables. Earlier than shopping for a brand new soundbar, it’s vital to know your tv’s connectivity capabilities, so you possibly can guarantee simple setup upon arrival.
HDMI, or Excessive Definition Multimedia Interface, ports are a available strategy to transmit audio and visible data between a tv and an exterior unit, like an A/V receiver or soundbar. When HDMI transmission first hit the scene, you wanted one HDMI port and cable to ship video and one other to assist audio so any pre-2009 TV will possible want a soundbar with an optical digital audio port too.
Publish-2009, HDMI-ARC connections had been made accessible; ARC stands for Audio Return Channel and allows excessive audio bandwidth, in addition to compatibility with distant controls by way of Client Electronics Management (CEC). Basically, HDMI-ARC eradicated the necessity for a secondary cable, making a extra environment friendly connection. HDMI-ARC transmission is what most reasonably priced soundbars depend on and is appropriate for a lot of TVs. Be aware that HDMI-ARC can assist Dolby Atmos, however an eARC connection is strongly most popular and you’ll need that eARC assist for Atmos audio encoded with uncompressed Dolby TrueHD audio. Additionally, you will want a cable that delivers HDMI with Ethernet, Excessive-Pace HDMI with Ethernet, or Extremely Excessive-Pace HDMI.
Many soundbars won’t solely have an HDMI-ARC or eARC port, but additionally an HDMI output port as effectively. This lets you connnect gaming consoles and Blu-ray gamers to your soundbar and cross the sign by to the TV. Some fashions may also checklist Full HDMI of their checklist of obtainable ports; this slot lets you join an extra sound supply and may allow increased high quality sound however could make it tougher to play audio from the apps in your TV.
Many soundbars in the marketplace may also provide Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity so you possibly can hyperlink to different units, like your smartphone or laptop computer, and stream podcasts, audiobooks, or music. Some even provide AirPlay 2, built-in Chromecast, or Alexa for enhanced connectivity and voice management.
Audio channels
At its most simple, a soundbar will provide stereo sound, that means an unbiased left and proper channel, additionally known as a 2.0 channel system. Soundbar methods can usually incorporate between 1.0 and seven.2 channels. For fashions underneath $300, you’ll usually be capped at 5.1 channels and most can be packaged with 2.1 channels. These 2.1 channel methods add a separate subwoofer to handle low frequencies. Shifting as much as 3.1 methods will incorporate a left, proper, and heart channel alongside the extra sub. And 5.1 methods will make the most of one major soundbar, containing the left, proper, and heart channels, one subwoofer, and two extra audio system that act as surrounds, rears, or entrance fills for an much more immersive expertise. As you possibly can think about, 5.1 methods take up extra space and require extra cabling, however for a 3D auditory expertise, 5 channels are definitely higher than two.
The take care of Dolby Digital, Dolby Atmos, and DTS:X
Dolby Digital is an audio codec that produces high-quality sound throughout a 5.1 channel scheme. It helps create immersive encompass sound and has been utilized in movie and tv since 1992. Many soundbars will checklist Dolby Digital compatibility of their specs even when they’re a 2.1 channel system; this merely means they will course of the audio and infrequently find yourself mixing down the sign, formatting it to suit the soundbar’s channel configuration.
Dolby Atmos is a encompass sound know-how designed to create a practical listening expertise that places you inside no matter film you’re watching or online game you’re enjoying. To do that, Atmos makes use of overhead or upward-firing audio system and object-based audio, which basically forgoes channel assignments and creates a 3-D aircraft that sound can transfer by, mimicking the article’s spatial group on display. For instance, a aircraft could sound prefer it’s flying immediately above you, a shootout may have bullets whizzing previous your head, and so forth. You don’t have to construct out a 12-speaker sound system full with overhead models to reap the benefits of Dolby Atmos; you simply want a soundbar outfitted with Dolby Atmos know-how. Atmos-equipped soundbars can successfully course of the audio and a few are designed with front-firing drivers that may nearly simulate projecting sound upwards. In an effort to expertise Dolby Atmos, the content material you’re watching additionally must be combined with that know-how, like choose movies on Netflix, iTunes, or UHD Blu-ray. Dolby Atmos does come at the next value however if you’re on the lookout for an unbelievable listening expertise, we consider it’s well worth the worth.
DTS:X, a multidimensional audio codec, will be thought of the first Dolby Atmos competitor. DTS:X doesn’t require any specific speaker arrange, adapting to your system and supporting as much as 11.2 channels. Not like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X lets listeners customise their expertise, with the choice to manually alter sound components, like turning up the quantity on simply dialogue, lifting it above background music or results. DTS: X-enabled content material is predominantly discovered on Blu-ray disks, IMAXEnchanced content material, or Xbox video games.
Whereas DTS:X is totally immersive, DTS Digital:X makes an attempt to imitate multi-speaker encompass sound utilizing digital sign processing to simulate directionality and create a bigger extra detailed soundstage impacting music, dialogue, and SFX alike.
Discovering an affordable soundbar that helps well-developed encompass sound applied sciences like Dolby Atmos or DTS:X will be troublesome. So, if you’re on the lookout for a mind-blowing, 3D expertise, think about saving just a little bit extra so you possibly can put money into the required know-how.
4K compatibility
It’s true that the 4K refers to display decision, not audio high quality, however when you’ve got a 4K tv, you’ll desire a soundbar with 4K compatibility or “pass-through.” This basically means a soundbar with an HDMI enter and output so you possibly can create a streamlined, easy connection. This pass-through lets you direct content material from one other media system by the soundbar and into the television, sustaining lossless audio synchronization.
The most effective soundbars underneath $300: Evaluations & Suggestions
Finest full system soundbar: Vizio M51ax-J6

Why it made the reduce: The M51ax-J6 is the one product on our checklist that provides an entire encompass system with two extra satellite tv for pc audio system, a subwoofer, and Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio at a really cheap worth level.
Specs
- Dimensions: 36 x 3.5 x 2.2 inches
- Connectivity: HDMI eARC, Bluetooth, optical
- Audio Channels: 5.1
Professionals
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X processing
- Voice Assistant
- 9 speaker drivers
Cons
- Expensive
- Satellite tv for pc audio system are wired
The Vizio M51ax-J6 is a 5.1 channel encompass sound system is rife with options usually present in dearer fashions. The 36-inch soundbar homes six audio system: two passive radiators, woofers, and tweeters for elevated frequency isolation and assist leading to a richer sound. The 5-inch subwoofer is wi-fi, will be positioned wherever you want, and has a frequency response vary that reaches 45Hz. Two smaller satellite tv for pc audio system, which hook up with the subwoofer by way of wire, will be positioned subsequent to the soundbar for broader protection (additionally known as entrance encompass mode) or behind your seating space for twin stereo mode. Loads of connectivity choices can be found, so compatibility together with your TV is virtually assured. On the suitable facet of the bar you’ll discover an HDMI enter, HDMI output for eARC connections, a USB port, and an optical audio enter port. The included Vizio distant controls energy, enter, quantity, Bluetooth, and extra. You can even join your favourite voice assistant and different sensible units by way of aux VA port or Bluetooth respectively to create an environment friendly hub for at-home music, podcast, and audiobook-listening. Lastly, this soundbar is totally outfitted to reap the benefits of DTS:X and Dolby Atmos content material, a rarity for many soundbars underneath $300.
Finest for films and music: Polk Audio Signa S3

Why it made the reduce: The Signa 3 just isn’t solely an amazing soundbar for watching movies, but additionally a superb at-home speaker for rocking out to your favourite tunes.
Specs
- Dimensions: 35.4 x 3.2 x 2.15 inches
- Connectivity: HDMI ARC, Bluetooth, optical
- Audio Channels: 2.1
Professionals
- Devoted Music Mode
- Highly effective audio throughout highs and lows
- Constructed-in Chromecast
Cons
- LED Mode indicators will be laborious to learn
The Signa 3 is a good soundbar for listeners who’re on the lookout for extra on the subject of on a regular basis, at-home listening. Not solely will you get nice sound for films and TV reveals, however you’ll additionally expertise elevated audio on the subject of music.
Constructed-in Chromecast makes it simple to connect with apps like Spotify, TIDAL, or Amazon Music, and Wi-Fi connectivity expands these choices. Bluetooth 4.0—with AAC, AptX, and SBC codecs—can be supported. There are three totally different listening modes accessible: Film, Music, and Evening; you may as well use Voice Modify Expertise to tweak the extent of dialogue to your liking. Two midrange drivers and two tweeters alongside the wi-fi 40-watt subwoofer assist a frequency vary of 45Hz – 20kHz. Customers report distortion-free listening even at excessive volumes with a wealthy, pure sound throughout the mids and highs. The included distant management lets you alter quantity, bass ranges (on a 1-8 scale), enter, energy, listening mode, and Voice Modify, so that you’ll by no means want to depart the sofa.
Finest 3.1 sound soundbar: Samsung HW-A650

Why it made the reduce: If investing in extra audio system (and wires for that matter) isn’t for you, however you need just a little greater than only a left and proper channel, the Samsung 3.1 HW-A650 ought to do the trick.
Specs
- Dimensions: 38.6 x 2.3 x 4.1 inches
- Connectivity: HDMI ARC, Bluetooth, optical
- Audio Channels: 3.1
Professionals
- Middle channel
- Graphic EQ
- Total sound high quality
Cons
- Expensive
- No Dolby Atmos
- No Voice Management
In terms of sound reinforcement and system design, most, if not all, venues use a middle speaker or speaker array to assist vocals particularly. A 3.1 soundbar makes use of this design idea to ship higher residence theater audio to your front room. Alongside left, proper, and heart channels, the HW-A650 offers a balanced sound with a examined frequency response vary of roughly 42Hz – 20kHz. If you’re able to improve to a 5.1 encompass sound expertise, you possibly can simply combine Samsung’s satellite tv for pc audio system into your system. This soundbar has a number of enhancement options to maintain you cheerful even with out extra models. Graphic EQ provides you complete management over your sound and in the event you’re undecided the place to begin presets together with Bass Increase, Sport, Encompass Sound, and Adaptive Sound Life will get you going. Connectivity choices embrace HDMI Arc, HDMI output, Full HDMI enter, USB, and optical audio, plus Bluetooth—nevertheless, there isn’t any Wi-Fi playback possibility. The distant is easy and simple, controlling the soundbar and never the tv itself. Whereas the HW-A650 doesn’t embrace a treasure trove of bells and whistles, it delivers glorious sound high quality, providing you with customizable management over audio.
Finest 2.1 sound: Yamaha ATS-2090

Why it made the reduce: The Yamaha ATS-2090 is an easy 2.1 unit with balanced audio designed with WiFi connectivity, voice management, and straightforward set up.
Specs
- Dimensions: 36 x 2.5 x 4.25 inches
- Connectivity: HDMI ARC, Bluetooth, optical
- Audio Channels: 2.1
Professionals
- Constructed-in Alexa
- EQ Presents
Cons
- No management show
- 3D mode will be overwhelming
The ATS-2090 is a strong possibility for individuals who need the added energy of a wi-fi subwoofer with no bunch of additional components. It options well-balanced stereo sound, dialogue enhancement, subwoofer stage management, EQ presets designed for various content material, and digital encompass sound. Connectivity choices embrace HDMI ARC, Full HDMI enter, HDMI output, optical audio enter, USB, and Ethernet. There may be additionally a 4K pass-through that may assist Blu-ray gamers, gaming consoles, and extra PC displays. The ATS-2090 options built-in Alexa management, in addition to Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to assist playback out of your telephone or different sensible units. A common distant is included for management over soundbar and subwoofer quantity, EQ presets, listening modes, enter settings, and baby lock. An entry-level soundbar, this unit is a wonderful possibility for enhancing the stereo picture of any movie or tv program.
Finest finances: Roku Streambar Professional

Why it made the reduce: The Streambar Professional is an affordable strategy to get strong sound high quality with a number of choices for management and connectivity.
Specs
- Dimensions: 32.2 x 3.9 x 2.8 inches
- Connectivity: HDMI ARC, Bluetooth, optical
- Audio Channels: 2.0
Professionals
- Value
- Non-public Listening possibility
- Voice Contol
- AirPlay and HomeKit suitable
Cons
You don’t have to have a Roku TV to reap the benefits of all this highly effective, compact soundbar has to supply. The Streambar Professional options 4 2.5-inch full-range drivers that assist highly effective 2-channel stereo sound, gracefully enhancing films and TV reveals, nevertheless it won’t pack an enormous punch for music listening. Speech Readability helps with clear dialogue, although. Fortunately, Roku makes it simple to increase with the choice to include extra wi-fi audio system or a wi-fi subwoofer down the highway if you wish to spherical out your listening expertise. The included distant comprises typical options like management over quantity and playback and offers distinctive additions like programmable command buttons and a headphone jack for personal listening wirelessly, permitting you to expertise big-screen visuals with out waking up your roommates. A Evening Mode additionally helps not disturb the neighbors. The Wi-Fi-enabled Streambar Professional works with Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant and can be suitable with AirPlay, so you possibly can share photographs, movies, and music out of your Apple system. Whereas this soundbar helps Dolby Audio, it can combine right down to digital with none speaker expansions. This soundbar additionally acts as a 4K HDR Roku media streamer, offering entry to apps together with Hulu, Netflix, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon Prime, in addition to Roku Channel exclusives, assuming you’ve a suitable UHD TV with an HDMI enter that helps HDCP 2.2.
FAQs
Q: Does a soundbar change TV audio system?
Sure, a soundbar is designed to switch your tv’s built-in audio system. You can not use each the TV audio system and soundbar to create an enhanced system, it’s possible you’ll simply create an annoying echo. Soundbars are particularly structured to be higher than your built-in audio system, which are sometimes crammed into a thin TV and too small to supply the type of sound that ought to accompany movie and tv. You might be certain to note a distinction the following time you watch an episode of Euphoria and really feel Labrinth’s rating soar round you or lastly dig into Dune and worry the sandworms may come by the display and assault you because of immersive, elevated sound.
Q: Is a soundbar higher than a encompass sound system?
Whereas a soundbar is an effective way to enhance your own home theater’s sound, a full encompass sound system could be one of the simplest ways to create an much more 3D expertise. Bigger drivers throughout at the very least 4 audio system plus a subwoofer can usually present extra element than the small models present in soundbars. Nonetheless, whereas the audio high quality could also be higher, encompass methods are usually dearer, more durable to put in, and require extra receivers. For a budget-friendly, easier-to-use possibility, we suggest a bundle that features a soundbar with a few supplementary audio system and a sub, just like the Vizio M51ax-J6.
Q: What’s the distinction between 2.1 and three.1 soundbar?
The distinction between a 2.1 and three.1 soundbar is the extra heart channel within the 3.1 system. A 2.1 channel system features a left and proper channel constructed into the soundbar with an extra subwoofer. A 3.1-channel system will incorporate a left, proper, and heart channel, in addition to the sub. The most important perceivable distinction can be within the readability of dialogue, which is often mapped to the middle channel.
Ultimate ideas on choosing the perfect soundbars underneath $300
Should you’ve determined to improve your TV’s audio, however you don’t need to break the financial institution, think about which options are non-negotiable so you’ll find one thing that matches your wants and your finances. Do you need to put money into true 5.1 encompass sound? Are you happy with stereo however want a common distant? Do you want a number of connectivity choices? Or would you slightly be capable of have full management over EQ? As soon as you possibly can reply these questions, you possibly can slim your search and choose among the finest soundbars underneath $300.