10 Best Airplay Soundbar 2025 in the United States

The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a solid choice for those looking to enhance their home entertainment experience with an airplay soundbar. One of its standout features is the audio quality, which includes vibrant bass and crystal clear dialogue, along with a 3D surround sound effect thanks to Dolby Atmos. This makes it particularly appealing for movie enthusiasts and music lovers alike. The option to stream music and podcasts even when the TV is off broadens its usability, allowing it to function as a versatile audio source.

In terms of connectivity, the Beam Gen 2 supports Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and HDMI, ensuring compatibility with a variety of devices and easy integration into existing setups. The inclusion of Apple AirPlay 2 and voice control via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant adds convenience, particularly for users who prefer smart home capabilities.

Setup is designed to be user-friendly, requiring only two cables and guided assistance through the Sonos app. This ease of setup appeals to users who may not be tech-savvy, making it accessible for a wider audience. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The soundbar lacks a dedicated subwoofer, which may limit bass performance for those who prefer a more powerful low-end sound, although it does come with decent bass for its size. Additionally, while the sleek design fits well in most home environments, it may not be suitable for larger rooms without additional speakers for an immersive experience.

The Arc Ultra Soundbar from Sonos is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enhance their home audio experience with a focus on spatial sound. The standout feature is its 9.1.4 surround sound capability powered by Dolby Atmos, which creates an immersive audio environment, perfect for both movies and music. The Sound Motion technology ensures sound is precisely placed around the room, making it ideal for dynamic listening experiences. Users will appreciate the ultra-clear dialogue enhancement, which is particularly useful during quieter scenes in films.

Connectivity is also a strong point, with options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI, and compatibility with Apple AirPlay 2. This allows for easy connection to various devices and streaming services. The Sonos app provides a user-friendly interface for control, and setup is straightforward, requiring only a single HDMI eARC connection to your TV.

In terms of design, the Arc Ultra sports an elegant look that should blend seamlessly with most home décors. However, its size—almost 46 inches wide—might not suit smaller spaces. While the soundbar can be used alone, it's worth noting that adding a Sonos Sub or rear speakers can enhance the surround sound experience significantly. One potential drawback is its weight of 12.7 pounds, which may pose challenges for wall mounting. Additionally, while the sound quality is generally praised, some users might find the price point to be on the higher side compared to other soundbars in the market. Lastly, while the warranty is limited, Sonos has a good reputation for customer support and product reliability.

The Arc Ultra Soundbar excels in audio quality and connectivity while providing an elegant design and ease of setup, making it a strong candidate for home audio enthusiasts. Prospective buyers should consider their space and budget before making a decision.

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar offers a high-quality audio experience, featuring Dolby Atmos and Bose TrueSpace technology for immersive spatial sound. It excels in audio quality, with ultra-crisp dialogue clarity and a surround sound system that fills the room from all angles. The soundbar is also equipped with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for versatile connection options and seamless integration with other Bose products through Bose SimpleSync.

It includes smart features like Amazon Alexa and Google Voice Control, making it easy to control your entertainment and daily tasks with voice commands. The setup is straightforward with plug-and-play functionality and included cables for a quick connection to your TV. The design is sleek and modern, fitting well in most home entertainment setups.

While the soundbar is relatively heavy at 12.7 pounds, its tabletop mount design makes it easy to place. Being a Bose product, it comes with a limited warranty and the brand's reputation for quality. However, it lacks water resistance, and some users might find its price point high compared to other soundbars in the market. Additionally, the soundbar's smart features might require a learning curve for those not familiar with voice control technology.