Cheap soundbars
For all the stunning visuals, bright colors and stark contrasts high-end TVs may offer, audio quality is often middling at best. That’s where soundbars come in: these slim rectangular speakers are meant to supplement a TV or monitor for a comprehensive entertainment experience.
There are plenty of quality options available offering 2.0 channel sound for those on a budget, including models that allow you to expand your speaker system over time when you’re ready. These options best serve TVs 60 inches and under and most can be mounted on the wall to save space. Here are the best soundbars you can buy for under $200.
Fifteen best cheap soundbars
TCL Alto 3 2.0-Channel Soundbar: available at Amazon
A quality option by a budget-friendly brand, this TCL model is quite sizable considering the low price. It offers versatility with its strong Bluetooth connection while toggling between sound modes allows you to find the optimal settings for whatever content you’re enjoying. An optical cable is also included, adding further value.
Samsung HW-A450 Soundbar: available at Amazon
Samsung provides quality and reliable electronics and their soundbars are no exception. Though slightly pricier, this model offers value that includes a subwoofer that boasts deep, booming bass. Though it lacks an HDMI input and WiFi connectivity, it does allow for expansion with rear speakers for comprehensive coverage.
Dell SB521A Ultrathin Soundbar: available at Amazon
This inexpensive, low-profile soundbar is meant to enhance the sound of your computer setup. At just under a foot long, it easily fits under a compatible monitor to boost the audio for a single user, whether you’re streaming content or gaming online.
Hisense 2.0-Channel Soundbar: available at Amazon
Another soundbar that provides plenty of value, this model from a budget-friendly brand is big and booming enough for larger rooms, providing quality coverage for an immersive experience. While it offers a Bluetooth connection like others, it also features an HDMI connection and can be easily mounted on a wall.
TCL Alto 6+ 2.1-Channel Soundbar: available at Amazon
This is a newer, more comprehensive model of the previous TCL entry on this list, offering improved coverage and rich bass for a higher price. The subwoofer connects wirelessly so you can easily position it where you desire, while HDMI, optical and Bluetooth connections offer more connectivity convenience.
Vizio 2.0-Channel Soundbar: available at Amazon
Simple yet solid, this soundbar from budget-friendly Vizio features Bluetooth connectivity and surprising power for the size. Purchase includes an optical digital cable and handy remote. At under 2 feet in length, it can be easily moved around the house or set up on a patio.
Yamaha SR-C20A Soundbar: available at Amazon
A higher-end choice, this Yamaha model includes a built-in subwoofer for deep, rich bass. This versatile soundbar expertly serves big action movies and quiet dramatic series equally well. Toggle between sound modes depending on the content, including a Clear Voice mode for crisp dialogue.
JBL 2.0-Channel Soundbar: available at Amazon
Known for their popular portable Bluetooth speakers, JBL also offers an impressive soundbar, albeit towards the top of the budget. It’s one of the more powerful options on this list and is best suited for high-end gaming or cinematic blockbusters. It connects via Bluetooth or optical cable and includes an HDMI output as well for more convenience.
Insignia 2.1-Channel Soundbar: available at Amazon
An upgrade from the previous Insignia model featured, this option comes with an impressive subwoofer to incorporate some deep bass to your soundtrack. At 36 inches in length, this option is a great value for mid-size smart TVs.
Vizio V-Series 2.1-Channel Soundbar: available at Amazon
One of the few options on this list that features an HDMI port, this budget-friendly model includes a subwoofer for comprehensive sound coverage. While it doesn’t support WiFi, you can control by voice using a device connected by cable or Bluetooth. This option is also one that can hit high volume levels without losing any quality and fidelity.
TaoTronics 5.0 Computer Soundbar: available at Amazon
This compact and inexpensive soundbar is meant for computer monitors or small TVs in dens or bedrooms. Easy to set up, it provides convenience and quality sound for a single person working or streaming content at a desk or sitting nearby. You can plug in cables or connect a tablet, phone or laptop via Bluetooth.
Sony 2.1-Channel Soundbar: available at Amazon
With a built-in subwoofer and virtual surround sound technology, this impressive model by a trusted brand offers the best chance for theatre-quality sound on a budget. Connect with Bluetooth or an optical cable for reliable, faithful sound. The design is unobstructive while watching TV.
Polk Audio Signa S3 Ultra-Slim Soundbar: available at Amazon
At the top of the budget, this system by Polk Audio includes a powerful bass as well as a reliable HDMI Arc connection. It features a built-in Chromecast for added convenience, as well as Bluetooth so you can stream from your favorite apps. At just around 6 feet, it serves a small or mid-range TV wondrously.
Insignia 2.0-Channel Mini Soundbar: available at Amazon
One of the cheapest options on the list boasts impressive sound coverage for its compact size. Ideal for smaller TVs, this model connects via an optical input or 3.5-millimeter jack for quality, reliable audio transmission. You can also go wireless and connect any device through Bluetooth as well.
LG 2.0-Channel Soundbar: available at Amazon
From a trusted name in electronics, this budget-friendly LG soundbar is best for smaller spaces and mid-size TVs. Control by remote or connect via Bluetooth to play music from your smart device. Expect this option to last at least a few years.
Anthony Marcusa is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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