Welcome to our guide on the Best Compact Soundbars for 2024. A soundbar is a convenient and cost-effective solution to enhance your home audio experience, especially if you have limited space. In this article, we will provide you with our top picks for compact soundbars, along with shopping tips to help you make an informed decision.
When selecting a compact soundbar, it's essential to consider factors such as sound quality, connectivity options, and compatibility with your TV. Our recommendations include models that deliver impressive sound performance, easy setup, and versatile features to suit various needs and budgets.
Stay tuned as we explore the best compact soundbars of 2024 and guide you through the process of finding the perfect one for your home entertainment setup.
Bose Smart Soundbar 300: Sleek and Smart Home Soundbar
Bose Smart Soundbar 300 (Black) -- 299(B&H Photo-Video-Audio)
Bose Smart Soundbar 300 Bluetooth Connectivity with Alexa Voice Control ... -- 349.95(Amazon)
Bose Smart Soundbar 300 -- 314.18(My Child Parc)
Bose Smart Soundbar 300 Home Theater Speaker - Black - Model 432552 #U4901 -- 174.96(Christiana Auto Parts)
Why We Picked It
The Bose Smart Soundbar 300 stands out for its exceptional acoustic performance, delivering spacious sound, exceptional clarity, and rich bass with its 5 full-range drivers. It's designed for those who appreciate a sleek, matte-black finish and seamless metal grille that complements any home theater setup. With built-in voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, it offers hands-free control over your entertainment, and its wide range of connectivity options ensures you can stream your favorite music and more with ease. The simple setup and compatibility with other Bose products for multiroom listening or expansion make it a versatile choice for enhancing your audio experience at home.
Who It's For
This soundbar is ideal for tech-savvy users who value convenience and quality in their home entertainment system. It's perfect for those who enjoy streaming music, movies, and games and want to control their experience with simple voice commands. However, it may not be the best fit for audiophiles seeking the deepest bass without investing in an additional subwoofer.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Built-in Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control | ❌ May require additional subwoofer for deep bass |
| ✅ Wide, clear sound with 5 full-range drivers | ❌ Higher price point for renewed models |
| ✅ Easy connectivity with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Apple AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect | ❌ Wall brackets for mounting sold separately |
Sonos Beam (Gen 2): Best Compact Soundbar with Dolby Atmos
Beam Gen 2 - Black - Soundbar with Dolby Atmos -- 473(Amazon)
Beam (Gen 2). The compact smart soundbar for TV, music and more. (Black) -- 475(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is a compact and smart soundbar that brings an immersive audio experience to your home entertainment setup. It features enhanced 3D audio with Dolby Atmos support, offering a panoramic soundstage and vibrant bass for TV, movies, and games. Additionally, it provides the convenience of streaming music, radio, podcasts, and audiobooks when the TV is off. The Beam integrates seamlessly with other Sonos speakers, allowing for easy expansion of your home sound system for true surround sound and multi-room listening.
Who It's For
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is ideal for those who appreciate high-quality audio and are looking for a smart, space-saving soundbar that enhances their TV and music experience. It's perfect for users who are already invested in the Sonos ecosystem or new users who want a premium standalone soundbar that can be expanded over time. The Beam is also a great choice for tech-savvy individuals who value voice control and app integration for a seamless user experience.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Enhanced 3D audio with Dolby Atmos support | ❌ Higher price point compared to some competitors |
| ✅ Seamless integration with other Sonos speakers | ❌ May require additional Sonos speakers for full surround sound |
| ✅ Easy setup and smart Trueplay tuning | ❌ Limited to the Sonos ecosystem for expansion |
Yamaha SR-C20A: Compact Soundbar with Big Features
Audio SR-C20A Compact Sound Bar with Built-in Subwoofer and Bluetooth, B... -- 179.95(Amazon)
NTQinParts Replacement Remote Control Controller for Yamaha SR-B20A SR-B... -- 27.99(Amazon)
Yamaha SR-C20A - Soundbar -- 99(audiowave)
Wall Mount Brackets Sound Bar Mounting for Yamaha SR-C20A YAS-207 YAS-20... -- 19.98(Amazon)
Yamaha Audio SR-C20A Compact Sound Bar with Built-In Subwoofer and Bluet... -- 179.95(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Yamaha SR-C20A stands out for its compact design that doesn't compromise on sound quality, featuring a built-in subwoofer and passive radiators for impressive bass. Its Clear Voice technology enhances dialogue clarity, making it perfect for movies and TV shows. With Bluetooth streaming, it offers versatile connectivity options for music and podcasts. The simple setup with HDMI, optical, or aux connections, along with the ability to wall-mount, makes it a convenient choice for any living space.
Who It's For
Ideal for those living in apartments or smaller spaces who want to enhance their audio experience without the clutter of a full home theater system. It's also perfect for individuals who prioritize clear dialogue in movies and TV shows, and those who appreciate the convenience of Bluetooth streaming for their music. However, it may not be the best fit for those looking to fill a large room with sound.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Built-in subwoofer and passive radiators deliver surprising bass | ❌ May not be as loud as some competitors, potentially an issue in larger rooms |
| ✅ Clear Voice technology for enhanced dialogue clarity | ❌ Limited bass compared to larger soundbars with separate subwoofers |
| ✅ Versatile connectivity options including Bluetooth, HDMI, optical, and aux | ❌ Some users may find the sound profile less suited for music than for spoken content |
Polk Audio MagniFi Mini: Best Compact Home Theater Soundbar
MagniFi Mini AX Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer (2022 Model), Dolby At... -- 499(Amazon)
Polk Audio MagniFi Mini Home Theater Sound Bar System -- 249(Accessories4less)
Why We Picked It
The Polk Audio MagniFi Mini is a compact yet powerful soundbar that offers an expansive soundstage with its patented SDA audio technology, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their home theater experience without taking up too much space. The inclusion of a wireless subwoofer ensures deep bass, and the soundbar's ability to decode Dolby Atmos and DTS:X provides a cinematic surround sound experience. Its versatility in connectivity and ease of setup make it a user-friendly addition to any entertainment system.
Who It's For
This soundbar is ideal for movie enthusiasts and music lovers who want to upgrade their audio experience with high-quality surround sound in a compact form factor. It's also perfect for those who appreciate clear dialogue in movies and TV shows, thanks to Polk's VoiceAdjust technology. However, it might not be the best fit for users who prefer a more balanced sound profile, as some may find the bass levels too dominant for certain types of content.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Patented SDA technology for a wide soundstage | ❌ Sound profile may be too bass-heavy for some |
| ✅ Wireless subwoofer for impactful bass | ❌ Price may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers |
| ✅ VoiceAdjust technology for clear dialogue | ❌ Optional wireless surrounds for 5.1 setup sold separately |
JBL Bar Studio: Compact Soundbar with Signature Sound
Bar Studio 2.0 - Channel Soundbar with Bluetooth -- 189.95(Amazon)
JBL Bar 2.0 - All-in-One Soundbar (2019 Model) (Renewed) -- 119.99(Amazon)
JBL Bar Studio Soundbar 2.0 with Bluetooth (P4) W#939 -- 71(Christiana Auto Parts)
Why We Picked It
The JBL Bar Studio offers an impressive blend of JBL's signature sound quality in a compact and easy-to-set-up package. With its total maximum power of 30W and a sound transducer size that includes 2 x 2" woofers and 2 x 1.5" tweeters, it delivers clear, powerful sound that can enhance any TV viewing experience. Its compact size and variety of input options, including HDMI, analog, optical, Bluetooth, and USB, make it a versatile choice for any home entertainment setup.
Who It's For
This soundbar is ideal for those looking for an affordable, straightforward way to upgrade their TV sound without the complexity of a full home theater system. It's perfect for small to medium-sized rooms where space is at a premium but audio quality cannot be compromised. However, it might not be the best fit for tech enthusiasts seeking advanced features like Wi-Fi connectivity and voice control.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ JBL's signature sound in a compact form factor | ❌ Lacks Wi-Fi connectivity |
| ✅ Easy setup with multiple connectivity options | ❌ No voice control features |
| ✅ Affordable price point for quality sound enhancement | ❌ Limited advanced features compared to higher-end models |
Sony HT-S200F: Compact Cinematic Soundbar
Sony HTS200F 2.1 ch Built-in Subwoofer mini Soundbar |HT-S200F -- 99999(Sony Parts)
Why We Picked It
The Sony HT-S200F soundbar is a compact audio solution that brings cinematic sound into your home without the need for a large setup. Its built-in subwoofer, combined with S-Force PRO Front Surround technology, aims to deliver a rich, immersive audio experience that enhances your movies, music, and games. This soundbar is designed for those who want to upgrade their TV sound without the complexity and space requirements of a traditional home theater system.
Who It's For
Ideal for small to medium-sized rooms where space is at a premium, the Sony HT-S200F is perfect for individuals or families looking to enhance their TV viewing experience without the clutter of additional speakers and wires. It's also a great choice for those who appreciate the simplicity of a single-unit sound system but still desire the depth and immersion of surround sound.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Built-in subwoofer for deep bass without extra equipment | ❌ Sound enhancement may not fully match a separate subwoofer |
| ✅ S-Force PRO Front Surround technology for immersive audio | ❌ May not fill very large rooms with sound as effectively as larger systems |
| ✅ Sleek, compact design that fits easily under most TVs | ❌ Price point may be high for those seeking a basic sound upgrade |
Vizio SB2020n-G6M: Best Budget Soundbar for Small Spaces
XRS321N-F Remote Control Replacement Compatible with Vizio SoundBar 2.0 ... -- 9.68(Amazon)
XRS321N-F Replace Remote fit for VIZIO 2.1 Sound Bar Home Theater V20-J8... -- 9.68(Amazon)
Remote Control Replacement Applicable for VIZIO 20" 2.0 Channel Sound Ba... -- 11.19(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Vizio SB2020n-G6M is selected for its affordability and impressive audio capabilities for its compact size. It features DTS Virtual:X, which provides a virtual surround sound experience that enhances the audio depth and immersion for users on a budget.
Who It's For
This soundbar is ideal for consumers looking for an inexpensive audio upgrade for their home entertainment system without requiring advanced connectivity or the latest audio codecs. It's perfect for small to medium-sized rooms where space is at a premium and simplicity is valued over complex setups.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Affordable price point | ❌ Limited connectivity options |
| ✅ Robust sound for its compact size | ❌ May not support the latest audio codecs |
| ✅ DTS Virtual:X for an immersive audio experience | ❌ Not suitable for larger rooms or advanced home theater setups |
Bose Solo 5 TV Sound System: Best Simple Sound Upgrade for TVs
BOSE Solo 5 TV Sound System Powered Speaker Bluetooth NO remote control -- 49.99(Christiana Auto Parts)
Replacement Remote Control for Bose TV Speaker and Solo Soundbar Series ... -- 8.85(Amazon)
New Remote Control for Bose Solo 5 10 15 Series II TV Sound System 41877... -- 8.73(Amazon)
Bose Solo 5 Wireless Bluetooth TV Soundbar - Black -- 7(Christiana Auto Parts)
Why We Picked It
The Bose Solo 5 TV Sound System is a compact and straightforward audio enhancement for your TV, offering improved sound quality over built-in TV speakers with minimal setup. It comes with a universal remote control for easy operation and features Bluetooth connectivity for wireless audio streaming from your devices.
Who It's For
This sound system is ideal for those who want to enhance their TV watching experience with better sound without the complexity of a full home theater system. It's also suitable for users who appreciate the convenience of wireless audio streaming via Bluetooth. However, it may not be the best fit for audiophiles looking for a high-fidelity audio system or those who require HDMI connectivity for their setup.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Easy setup with a single connection to the TV | ❌ Lacks HDMI connectivity |
| ✅ Universal remote control for convenient operation | ❌ May not meet the expectations of audiophiles seeking high-fidelity audio |
| ✅ Bluetooth connectivity for wireless audio streaming | ❌ Remote control sold separately if original is lost or damaged |
TCL Alto 3: Best Budget Soundbar with Bluetooth
Replacement Remote Control Compatible with TCL Soundbar Alto 3 TS3100 TS... -- 15.18(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The TCL Alto 3 soundbar is a great choice for those seeking an affordable audio upgrade for their home entertainment system. It offers Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming and comes with specialized sound modes to enhance the audio experience for different types of content, such as movies, music, and news.
Who It's For
This soundbar is ideal for budget-conscious consumers who want to improve their TV's sound quality without breaking the bank. It's also suitable for those who appreciate the convenience of Bluetooth connectivity for easy streaming from various devices.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Affordable price point | ❌ Audio performance may not be as robust as higher-end models |
| ✅ Bluetooth connectivity for wireless audio streaming | ❌ Sound quality might diminish at higher volumes |
| ✅ Specialized sound modes tailored for different content | ❌ May lack the depth and richness of premium soundbars |
Bang & Olufsen Beosound Stage: Premium Soundbar with Elegant Design
Beosound Stage – Dolby Atmos Soundbar – TV and WiFi Speaker, Aluminum/Bl... -- 1913.13(Amazon)
Beosound Stage - Multiroom Speakers - Natural - Bang & Olufsen -- 2199(Bang & Olufsen)
Soundbar Bang & Olufsen BeoSound Stage -- 2483.03(Mobius Sia)
Why We Picked It
The Bang & Olufsen Beosound Stage is a premium soundbar that elevates your TV and music experience with its powerful sound performance, elegant design, and multiroom functionality. It's designed for those who appreciate the finer details in sound and design, offering a Dolby Atmos experience with room-filling sound from its 11-driver setup. The integration of streaming capabilities and compatibility with other Bang & Olufsen speakers for a multiroom setup makes it a versatile addition to any home.
Who It's For
Ideal for audiophiles and design enthusiasts who are looking for a high-end soundbar to complement their TV setup and enhance their home audio experience. It's perfect for those willing to invest in premium build quality and sound performance for their living space. However, its price and size may not suit everyone, especially those looking for a more compact or budget-friendly option.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Dolby Atmos for immersive, three-dimensional sound | ❌ High price point may be prohibitive for some |
| ✅ Elegant Scandinavian design with high-quality materials | ❌ Larger than other compact soundbar options |
| ✅ Multiroom functionality and integrated streaming capabilities | ❌ Requires HDMI ARC support for optimal TV integration |
Thanks for checking out the best compact soundbars of 2024! If you need more help or recommendations, feel free to reach out. Happy shopping!