10 Best Small Soundbar 2026 in the United States

The Arc Ultra Soundbar by Sonos is designed to deliver an immersive audio experience, particularly appealing for those who enjoy watching movies or listening to music in their home. With advanced features like Dolby Atmos, it provides a remarkable 9.1.4 spatial audio output, making sound placement around the room precise and engaging. Users can expect clarity in dialogue thanks to its Speech Enhancement feature, which is perfect for those who often struggle to hear conversations in films or shows.

In terms of connectivity, the Arc Ultra offers multiple options including HDMI eARC, WiFi, Bluetooth, and Apple AirPlay 2. This variety allows for easy integration with various devices and streaming services, making it versatile for different users' needs. The setup process is streamlined with the Sonos app, which guides you step-by-step, making it accessible even for non-tech-savvy individuals.

The soundbar's elegant design is another strong point; it fits well in modern living spaces without being obtrusive. The option to add additional Sonos speakers for a fuller surround sound experience is also a plus, especially for audiophiles or home theater enthusiasts. However, it’s worth noting that the Arc Ultra isn't the most compact soundbar on the market, measuring 46.18 inches in width, which may be a consideration for smaller spaces. Additionally, while the price reflects its high-end features, it may be on the higher side for budget-conscious shoppers. Lastly, while features like voice control are convenient, they may not appeal to everyone, especially if you're looking for straightforward audio playback.

The Arc Ultra is well-suited for consumers who prioritize sound quality and smart features in a soundbar, but its size and price might deter those with limited space or budget constraints.

The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar is a compact and easy-to-use option for those looking to improve their TV audio without a lot of extra equipment. Its 2.0 speaker setup with DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Audio helps create a richer sound experience, especially with clearer dialogue and a bit deeper bass compared to built-in TV speakers. The soundbar is designed to offer virtual surround sound, which can make movies and shows feel more immersive even though it has just two speakers.

Connectivity is straightforward with an included HDMI cable that supports eARC/ARC for syncing audio perfectly with your TV. Bluetooth support lets you stream music directly from your phone or tablet, adding versatility beyond TV use. The physical size is quite small at 24 inches wide and just 2.5 inches tall, so it fits well on most stands without taking up much space. Another nice touch is its seamless integration with Fire TV devices, allowing you to control both the TV and soundbar with one remote, which simplifies operation.

The soundbar has only two speakers and no separate subwoofer, so while the bass is improved over TV speakers, it might not satisfy those wanting deep, powerful bass or multi-speaker surround sound. The design is sleek and compact, but people looking for a soundbar with more inputs or advanced audio customization might find this model limited. This soundbar suits anyone who wants a simple, space-saving upgrade for TV sound, especially if you use a Fire TV device, but it may not meet the needs of users seeking high-end audio performance or heavy bass.

The Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 HT-A9000 Soundbar is a high-end option for those seeking exceptional sound quality in a compact size. This soundbar features 13 speakers and supports advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which deliver a cinema-quality, three-dimensional sound experience. The 360 Spatial Sound Mapping further enhances the immersion by creating a broad, room-filling audio environment.

The Sound Field Optimization adjusts audio output based on your room's characteristics, ensuring optimal sound quality in any setting. However, to fully maximize its capabilities, additional purchases such as a subwoofer and rear speakers are necessary, which could be a downside for some users due to the extra cost involved.

In terms of connectivity, it supports both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, providing flexibility for various devices, and is easy to control via a remote or app. The size and sleek design make it suitable for most living spaces, and it can be wall-mounted or placed on a tabletop. The relatively high price and the need for additional components may not make it the best choice for budget-conscious buyers. This soundbar is ideal for home theater enthusiasts who are willing to invest in a premium audio experience.