10 Best Soundbars Under 500 2025 in the United States

The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar Plus is a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their home audio without spending too much. It offers true 5.1 channel surround sound with a wireless subwoofer and two surround speakers, creating a rich, immersive experience that’s great for movies, sports, and music. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support add a 3D sound effect that feels more lifelike, while a dedicated center channel keeps dialogue clear so you won’t miss important conversations in shows or movies.

Setting it up is straightforward since the subwoofer and surround speakers connect wirelessly to the main soundbar. You can control everything easily with one remote, especially if you already use a Fire TV device, and there are preset sound modes tailored to different types of content. The soundbar supports Bluetooth, so you can stream your favorite playlists from a phone or tablet without extra cables.

In terms of design, the soundbar is moderately sized and comes with a wall mount kit, but the subwoofer is a bit bulky compared to some alternatives, so you’ll want to consider your space. The system includes HDMI, optical, and USB ports, which cover most connection needs. For those seeking a home theater feel with clear sound and simple integration into a Fire TV setup, this package fits well within the under $500 range. However, if you prefer a more compact or less speaker-heavy setup, or if you don’t plan to use Fire TV features, there might be simpler options to explore.

The Bose TV Speaker is a compact soundbar that enhances your TV audio experience, especially for those who struggle with dialogue clarity. One of its standout features is the two angled full-range drivers, which create a wide, natural sound, making TV shows and movies more enjoyable. Its design prioritizes simplicity, with a straightforward setup that can be completed in minutes, connecting via HDMI or optical cables. The inclusion of Bluetooth allows users to easily stream music and podcasts from their devices, adding versatility beyond just TV use.

Another notable aspect is the dialogue mode, accessible via the included remote control, which further emphasizes speech clarity—a real win for movie lovers and sports fans. The soundbar’s compact size allows it to fit neatly in front of most TVs or be wall-mounted, though wall brackets are sold separately.

However, it does have some drawbacks. The sound quality, while decent for dialogue, may lack the deep bass that some users desire. If you’re an audiophile or someone looking for a rich music experience, you might find it lacking without adding a separate subwoofer, which can further increase your investment. Additionally, while it connects to multiple devices, users need to remember that only one device can be active at a time unless they manually switch between them.

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a sophisticated option for those looking to enhance their TV audio experience with a budget under $500. One of its standout features is the Dolby Atmos technology combined with Bose TrueSpace, which delivers an immersive surround sound experience by placing sounds in different parts of the room. This makes it ideal for those who appreciate high-quality audio and clear dialogue, thanks to its AI Dialogue Mode that ensures crisp vocal clarity. The soundbar's six transducers, including upward-firing speakers, help fill the room with sound, making it feel as though you're surrounded by audio from all directions, even overhead. This is particularly beneficial for home entertainment setups aiming for a cinema-like experience.

Additionally, the integration of Amazon Alexa and Google Voice Control allows for easy voice commands and smart home integration, contributing to its user-friendly nature. The soundbar also offers flexibility in connectivity, supporting both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and comes with essential cables for quick setup. Its sleek and modern design, with a size that fits comfortably on a tabletop, adds to its aesthetic appeal. However, at 12.68 pounds, it is slightly on the heavier side, which may be a consideration for those looking to mount it on a wall or move it frequently.

While it lacks waterproof features, which is not uncommon for indoor soundbars, it is specifically designed for TV audio enhancement and smart home integration, making it a specialized choice for home entertainment. The included remote, app control, and additional accessories like the ADAPTiQ headset further enhance its usability. The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a strong contender for anyone seeking a high-quality, feature-rich soundbar for their home entertainment system.