10 Best Budget TV Sound Bar 2025 in the United States

The LG S95TR is an impressive soundbar, boasting a 9.1.5-channel setup with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technology that provides premium 3-dimensional sound. This makes it ideal for those looking to elevate their home theater experience with immersive audio quality. The addition of rear surround speakers with true wireless connectivity offers flexibility in positioning and ease of setup, which is great for various room sizes and shapes.

The triple up-firing speakers, including a center channel, enhance dialogue clarity and overall soundstage richness, further improving the viewing experience. The WOW Orchestra feature allows for a harmonious audio experience when paired with an LG TV, using the TV and soundbar speakers simultaneously. Additionally, the WOW Interface and WOWCAST built-in features provide convenience by enabling control with one remote and wireless connection without compromising audio quality.

Multi-platform support with voice assistants like Google Assistant and Alexa, as well as advanced room calibration, ensures a tailored and optimized audio experience. The VRR/ALLM support offers smooth and lag-free gaming sound, making it a versatile choice for gamers. However, potential drawbacks could include the reliance on LG TV for some features, which might limit compatibility with other TV brands. Additionally, while it offers many advanced features, it may be on the higher end of the budget spectrum within the soundbar category, which might not suit all users looking for budget-friendly options.

The Polk Audio Signa S2 sound bar is a solid choice if you're looking for a budget-friendly way to improve your TV's audio. It comes with a wireless subwoofer that adds nice deep bass, which makes watching movies or shows more immersive. The bar itself is ultra-slim, just over 2 inches tall, so it fits easily in front of most TVs without blocking the screen or remote sensor. With five full-range drivers and Dolby Digital support, it delivers clear sound, and Polk's VoiceAdjust technology helps make dialogue easier to hear — a useful feature if voices often get lost in background noise.

Connectivity is versatile: you can connect via HDMI ARC, optical cable, or AUX, and it also offers Bluetooth for wireless streaming from your phone or tablet. Setting it up is straightforward, with included cables and a user-friendly remote. While the sound quality is impressive for the price, it may not satisfy those wanting a more powerful or richer audio experience compared to higher-end models. The subwoofer’s wireless range is about 7 meters, which is typical but something to keep in mind if your room is very large.

It lacks smart features like built-in voice assistants or app control, which some newer sound bars offer. The Signa S2 is an excellent fit for anyone who wants a simple, attractive sound upgrade for their TV that works well with 4K and HD sets, especially if you value easy setup and clear dialogue without a big investment.

The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar Plus with subwoofer and surround sound speakers offers a compelling option for those looking for a budget-friendly home theater experience. With 5.1 audio channels, Dolby Atmos, and DTS:X support, it promises a rich and immersive sound experience. The inclusion of a dedicated center dialogue channel ensures that conversations in movies and TV shows are crystal clear, which is particularly useful when watching content with complex audio tracks. The various sound modes—Movie, Music, Sports, Night—allow users to optimize audio settings based on what they're viewing, enhancing the listening experience.

Connectivity is straightforward with HDMI, Optical, AC, and USB-A ports available, and the ease of setup is a definite plus for users who might not be tech-savvy. The wireless connection for the subwoofer and surround speakers adds convenience and reduces cable clutter. Bluetooth support is another positive point, enabling streaming of audio from phones or tablets effortlessly. The soundbar is compatible with smart TVs and those connected to streaming media players, making it versatile for different setups.

However, the product does have some drawbacks. The size and weight of the subwoofer and surround speakers may be cumbersome for smaller living spaces, and the soundbar itself is quite wide at 37 inches, which might not fit well with all TV setups. While it offers a substantial home theater experience, the lack of smart features such as built-in voice assistants or advanced app integrations could be a downside for users looking for more tech-forward options. Additionally, the one-year warranty might seem limited, although extended warranties are available for purchase. In essence, this soundbar system is well-suited for users seeking an affordable way to upgrade their TV audio experience, but it may not meet the needs of those looking for cutting-edge smart features or space-saving designs.