10 Best Soundbars For The Money 2025 in the United States

The Bose TV Speaker is a solid choice for someone looking to improve their TV sound without breaking the bank. It shines in sound quality, thanks to its two angled full-range drivers that deliver clear and natural audio. The soundbar is particularly good at enhancing dialogue, making it easier to understand speech in movies and shows—a big plus for TV watching.

Connectivity is another strong point, with options for Bluetooth, HDMI ARC, Optical in, and AUX in, allowing easy integration with various devices. It also supports wireless streaming for music and podcasts, adding to its versatility. The soundbar is compact and easy to set up, fitting neatly in front of most TVs or wall-mounted with optional brackets. It includes a remote control that offers convenient features like dialogue mode and bass boost.

However, the need to purchase a separate HDMI cable and wall brackets could be a minor inconvenience. While it performs well for its size, those seeking a more immersive audio experience might want to consider adding the compatible Bose Bass Module 500 or 700, which are sold separately. This soundbar is a great option for enhancing TV sound quality on a budget, especially for users who prioritize dialogue clarity and straightforward setup.

The Arc Ultra Soundbar from Sonos stands out in the soundbar-for-the-money category, primarily due to its impressive sound quality and advanced features. With a 9.1.4 surround sound experience powered by Dolby Atmos, it delivers immersive audio that enhances both TV shows and music. The inclusion of Speech Enhancement ensures that dialogue remains clear, making it a great choice for movie lovers who want to catch every line without straining. Its elegant design integrates seamlessly into any living space, enhancing your home’s aesthetic without being overpowering.

When it comes to connectivity, the Arc Ultra offers multiple options, including HDMI eARC, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Apple AirPlay 2. This versatility allows users to easily integrate it with various devices, making it a fantastic choice for those who enjoy streaming music and shows from different platforms. The Sonos app provides a straightforward setup process and includes Trueplay technology, which helps fine-tune audio based on your room's acoustics. This feature is particularly beneficial for users wanting to customize their audio experience to their specific environment.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The price point may be higher than other soundbars in its category, which could deter budget-conscious buyers. Additionally, while it offers multi-room audio capabilities, adding extra speakers for the ultimate surround sound experience can escalate costs even further. The soundbar is also relatively large, measuring over 46 inches, which may not suit smaller spaces or setups.

The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a mid-sized soundbar designed for those looking for a high-quality audio experience without breaking the bank. Its most striking feature is the inclusion of Dolby Atmos, which provides a 3D surround sound effect that can significantly enhance your home entertainment experience. The soundbar delivers vibrant bass and clear dialogue, making it suitable for movies, music, and podcasts alike. Additionally, its maximum output power of 200 Watts ensures robust sound performance.

Connectivity options are plentiful with Wi-Fi, Ethernet, HDMI, and support for Apple AirPlay 2, making it easy to integrate into most home setups. The Beam Gen 2 also supports voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, adding a layer of convenience for users who prefer hands-free operation. Its design is sleek and compact, making it suitable for shelf mounting without taking up too much space. The setup process is user-friendly, aided by the Sonos app and Trueplay tuning, which adjusts the sound based on the room's acoustics.

However, the soundbar is not water-resistant, so it's best suited for indoor use. The lack of a built-in MP3 player and the absence of a subwoofer might be a downside for some audiophiles. The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is an excellent choice for those seeking a feature-rich soundbar with impressive audio quality and smart capabilities, all at a reasonable price point.