The Best Soundbars in 2021
  • 2022-08-03

The Best Soundbars in 2021

The best soundbar is dependent on several factors such as budget, space, home set-up, etc. The current TVs are evolving to slimmer models which limits space for in-built speakers. Your soundbar comes as a complementary to the audio of your TV. Even the most expensive TV will require an upgrade in its audio performance. It enhances the music and makes your movie or gaming experience more thrilling.

Spending on a magnificent TV is not worth complimenting with a poor soundbar that doesn’t match up to its standard. Some people pay attention to the price or aesthetics but end up missing out on the quality. Others miss out on everything for a cheap price. However, you should note that a high price does not always guarantee quality. You can find a good deal and save a significant amount of money.

In this article, we provide a guide on the best soundbars to buy, all available on Amazon. Whether you are worried about your budget, the quality, the aesthetics, your space or home set-up, we’ve got you covered.

Things to look out for while buying a soundbar;

Space

Setting up a soundbar is an easy process. You can either have it sitting under the TV or hanging on the wall. The amount of space available around your TV dictates the kind of soundbar you choose. If you want one that sits directly under the TV you have to ensure the amount of space available at the bottom is enough for your soundbar. If you want to mount it on the wall, consider doing so at the bottom of the TV as the top will not sound as good. You should therefore make sure you raise your TV to accommodate the soundbar beneath.

Size

When looking for the perfect soundbar, consider the size of your TV as well. The width of your TV should be similar to that of the soundbar so they can have an even and aesthetic guise. Other people will be okay with a soundbar whose width is smaller or bigger than the TV. It really depends on what appears good to you.

Connectivity options

The modern soundbar has more than one way of doing things such as playing music. The variety of connectivity options is a key aspect to look out for. For instance, many soundbars have a USB input port but this spec has been improved using wireless connectivity. It is important to check whether you can connect your soundbar directly to your phone, computer or tablet and stream music without any wiring. This option is enabled by built-in Bluetooth.

These Soundbars also have a Wi-Fi connectivity option which enables them to connect directly to your home internet and stream music from Pandora, Spotify, TIDAL, etc. The HDMI ARC enables you to connect your soundbar to the TV’s audio return channel (ARC) using an HDMI cable which works well for multi-channel soundbars. Another form of connectivity is the optical port. The optical patch cord enables you to connect your soundbar to the TV; an easy and reliable connection.

Controls

Your soundbar will most likely come with a remote for controls. However, you do not really need a cocktail of remotes on your table. You can easily program the existing TV remote to work for both the TV and the soundbar. More advancements have brought soundbars with a free mobile app that allows you to operate it using your tablet or phone.

Best sound bars to buy in 2021

Sonos arc

The Sonos arc is a modern soundbar that has an aesthetic elongated shape, soft profile, and seamless fascia. It provides a first-class sound experience without extra supplementary speakers. If you are a minimalist or have insufficient space for the music system, this is your go-to option.

What we like about it;

  • All-in-one soundbar that works perfectly in a square design cinema room
  • TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, and Dolby Digital Plus audio formats
  • Alexa built-in so you can play your music and control other functions completely hands-free
  • Great surround sound and music playback

What we don’t like;

  • Trueplay Tuning is iOS only
  • Smart assistant integration limited
  • Doesn’t suit every room

Samsung HW-Q950T

The Samsung HW-Q950T is an advancement from its predecessor, introducing new smart features and the outstanding Dolby Atmos/DTS: X-friendly 9.1.4 audio format configuration. It adopts an aesthetic, slim form that allows it to fit perfectly under a variety of TVs. It has two HDMI inputs and one HDMI output.

What we like about it;

  • True 9.1.4CH sound with speakers on both corners producing remarkably powerful sound quality
  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming; including Hi-Res Audio file formats
  • Unprecedented channel support
  • Alexa built-in for hands-free operation

What we don’t like;

  • Relatively expensive for a sound bar
  • It has no auto-calibration system

Samsung HW-Q90R

The Samsung HW-Q90R is a unique soundbar with a combo of four Dolby-Atmos/DTS:X upward-firing drivers and wireless rear speakers that produce full-on immersion and impressive sound quality. It comes with a HDMI cable, wall mount kit, remote control, and battery.

What we like about it;

  • Adaptive sound technology that examines the sound signal and produces clear and optimised sound on any volume
  • Easy set up and installation
  • Aesthetic design with metal grilles and a carbon silver finish.

What we don’t like;

  • Fewer HDMI inputs
  • Considerably expensive
  • No auto-calibration

Sony HTX8500

The Sony HTX8500 is a 2.1CH Dolby Atmos/DTS:X soundbar with an integrated subwoofer that delivers powerful sound performance. It has a wide soundstage and a wraparound sound processing by Sony’s Vertical S. It’s smart design and absence of external surround speakers and separate wireless subwoofers makes it fit for just about anywhere in the room.

What we like about it;

  • Dolby Atmos/DTS:X compatible
  • Easy to set up and install
  • Considerably affordable and great value
  • Slim aesthetic design

What we don’t like;

  • High-Res Audio incapable
  • Limited HDMI connectivity with only one input and one output with eARC
  • No up-firing drivers
  • No back-feature set