Improving your home audio experience doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Budget soundbars offer a fantastic way to achieve theater-quality sound without the need for large speakers and complicated setups. Whether you’re watching movies, streaming shows, or listening to your favorite music, a quality soundbar can elevate your listening experience to new heights. This guide covers the best soundbars under $300, providing options that deliver exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
Once you’ve found the perfect soundbar to improve your audio experience, think about investing in a new TV for an even more immersive setup. Explore the best budget TVs to discover a great display that pairs perfectly with your new soundbar.
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Sony HT-S400 2.1ch Soundbar
Best Overall Soundbar Under $300
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VIZIO M-Series Sound Bar M213ad-K8
Best Dolby Atmos Soundbar Under $300
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SAMSUNG B550D 3.1ch Soundbar
Best Smart Soundbar Under $300
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LG S40T Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer
Best Mid-Range Soundbar Under $300
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SAMSUNG S60D 5.0ch Soundbar
Best High-End Soundbar Under $300
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Game Rant’s Best Soundbars Under $300
Best Overall Soundbar Under $300
Sony HT-S400 2.1ch Soundbar
$258 $300 Save $42
This Sony HT-S400 soundbar comes with a separate wireless subwoofer, which delivers convenience in placement without wires connecting to the soundbar and deep, rich bass sound. The 2.1 setup supports surround sound and clear dialogue. Thanks to the S-Force PRO Front Surround and Dolby Digital supports, the speakers can create a complex cinematic-style surround experience.
The speaker system can output a total of 330 watts of powerful audio. Operation is simple and easy with a compact remote and using the OLED display window.
- Connectivity
- HDMI, Bluetooth
- Audio Format
- Dolby Digital, S-Force PRO
- Power
- 330W
- Dimensions
- 13.38″x38″x9.62″
- Immersive surround sound with Dolby Digital
- High power output of 330W
- Bluetooth and HDMI connectivity
- Remote control issues
- Sound quality inconsistencies
The Sony HT-S400 2.1ch Soundbar is the best overall soundbar under $300, delivering powerful audio with a 330W output. Featuring Dolby Digital and S-Force PRO, it provides an immersive surround sound experience, perfect for movie nights and gaming sessions. Additionally, the HDMI and Bluetooth connectivity options allow this soundbar to easily integrate with multiple devices, enhancing its versatility and ease of use.
Some have reported issues with the remote control and occasional sound quality inconsistencies. However, its overall performance and value make it a strong choice for any living room. The easy setup process and impressive audio output are key reasons why the Sony HT-S400 2.1ch Soundbar is the best overall soundbar under $300.
Best Dolby Atmos Soundbar Under $300
VIZIO M-Series Sound Bar M213ad-K8
$150 $180 Save $30
The VIZIO M213ad-K8 is a soundbar with built-in subwoofers, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Bluetooth. It supports both wired and wireless connections, and measures 2.13 inches deep, 36 inches wide, and 5.5 inches high.
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth
- Integrations
- DTS:X, Dolby Atmos
- Ports
- HDMI eARC
- Audio Format
- Surround
- Power
- Corded Electric
- Speaker Arrangement
- 2.1
- Dimensions
- 2.13″D x 36″W x 5.5″H
- Colors
- Black
- Built-in subwoofers improve bass response
- Supports advanced audio standards Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
- Flexible connectivity with HDMI eARC and wireless options
- Mixed reviews on connectivity reliability
- Performance may vary with different content
Recognized as the best Dolby Atmos soundbar under $300, the VIZIO M-Series Sound Bar M213ad-K8 offers advanced audio technology and a functional design. With built-in subwoofers, this soundbar delivers exceptional bass and a top-notch audio experience, thanks to its Dolby Atmos and DTS support. Its sleek, compact frame allows it to fit easily under most TVs, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive sound experience without taking up too much space.
Although it impresses with its audio clarity and ease of setup, it does have its challenges. Some have noted variability in performance based on different types of media, and connectivity can sometimes be inconsistent. Nonetheless, for those seeking an audio upgrade for movies, music, and gaming at a reasonable price, the VIZIO M-Series Sound Bar M213ad-K8 remains the best Dolby Atmos soundbar under $300.
Best Smart Soundbar Under $300
SAMSUNG B550D 3.1ch Soundbar
$248 $298 Save $50
The SAMSUNG B Series Soundbar features Dolby Audio and DTS Virtual:X for surround sound, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, and a subwoofer with bass boost. It includes a built-in center speaker, adaptive sound, game mode, and Bluetooth multi-connection, making it suitable for televisions, projectors, and laptops with a wireless range of 10 meters.
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, USB, Wi-Fi
- Audio Format
- Dolby Audio, DTS Virtual:X
- Dimensions
- 2.9″D x 33.8″W x 2.3″H
- Colors
- Black
- Buttons
- Remote Control
- Dolby Audio and DTS Virtual:X for surround sound
- Bluetooth, USB, and wifi connectivity
- Built-in center speaker and subwoofer with bass boost
- Issues with the remote control
- Mixed opinions on connectivity
The SAMSUNG B550D 3.1ch Soundbar is the best smart soundbar under $300, delivering impressive audio quality. It features Dolby Audio and DTS Virtual for an immersive surround sound experience. Gamers and movie lovers will appreciate its built-in center speaker and subwoofer with bass boost, which enhance dialogue clarity and deep bass. The soundbar’s Bluetooth, USB, and Wi-Fi connectivity options add versatility, making it easy to connect to multiple devices and streaming services.
Even with its high-quality performance, some have noted issues with the remote control. While the connectivity options are generally praised, opinions about their reliability are mixed. Nevertheless, even with these minor drawbacks, the SAMSUNG B550D 3.1ch Soundbar remains a top choice for its exceptional sound quality and features, making it the best smart soundbar under $300.
Best Mid-Range Soundbar Under $300
LG S40T Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer
$150 $170 Save $20
The LG S40T Soundbar is equipped with 4 channels, a 400W wireless subwoofer, and wireless rear speakers, compatible with Dolby Digital and DTS Digital. It features Bluetooth and HDMI connectivity, Hi Res Audio, Clear Voice Plus, a smart up-mixer, and can be controlled via the LG Soundbar App.
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, HDMI
- Audio Format
- Dolby Audio
- Power
- Corded Electric
- Subwoofer Output
- 400W
- Dimensions
- 3.4″D x 28.4″W x 2.5″H
- Colors
- Black
- Bluetooth and HDMI connectivity
- Supports Dolby Audio format
- Includes wireless subwoofer
- Connectivity issues with 5GHz wifi
- Remote control is not user-friendly
The LG S40T Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer is the best mid-range soundbar under $300 for gamers and movie lovers. It offers multiple setup options due to its Bluetooth and HDMI connectivity. Moreover, its 400W wireless subwoofer and support for the Dolby Audio format provide an immersive audio experience, making it a top pick in its mid-range class.
While the soundbar excels in ease of installation and high-resolution audio, some have reported connectivity issues with their 5GHz Wi-Fi band and found the remote control lacking in functionality. However, the smart up-mixer and Clear Voice Plus feature provide clear and balanced sound, solidifying the LG S40T Soundbar as the best mid-range soundbar under $300.
Best High-End Soundbar Under $300
SAMSUNG S60D 5.0ch Soundbar
$268 $348 Save $80
The SAMSUNG S Series Soundbar features a 5.0 surround sound channel configuration, built-in subwoofers, and Wireless Dolby Atmos technology. It supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity and includes smart integrations like Alexa, Chromecast, and Airplay 2, all within a compact, portable design.
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
- Integrations
- Alexa
- Audio Format
- Dolby Atmos
- Speaker Arrangement
- 5.0
- Colors
- Black
- Built-in subwoofers
- Wireless Dolby Atmos
- Smart integrations (Alexa, Chromecast, Airplay 2)
- Compact and portable design
- Connectivity issues
- Mixed sound quality
The SAMSUNG S60D 5.0ch Soundbar is our pick for the best high-end soundbar under $300, thanks to its impressive features. Its 5.0 surround sound channel configuration and built-in subwoofers offer an exceptional, immersive audio experience. Additionally, Wireless Dolby Atmos technology makes sure that sound is evenly distributed throughout the room, creating a theater-like environment at home.
Although the SAMSUNG S60D has many strengths, it’s not without drawbacks. Some have encountered connectivity issues, which can be a hassle when syncing the soundbar with other devices. Additionally, opinions on sound quality vary. However, its advanced features and high-end performance secures its position as the best high-end soundbar under $300.
Best Budget Soundbar Under $300
ULTIMEA Nova S50 Dolby Atmos SoundBar
The ULTIMEA Nova S50 Dolby Atmos SoundBar is the ideal way to elevate any gaming or streaming setup to full-blown Dolby Atmos Home Theater status. Equipped with Dolby Atmos, the top-of-the-line audio technology tailored for high-end devices, the Nova S50 offers incredible sound at a great price. Relying on the Dolby Atmos algorithm to transform an ordinary 2.1 stereo sound into a multi-dimensional sound, the Nova S50 provides users with immersive 3D audio that will dramatically fill any small to medium-sized room with amazing sound.
- Connectivity
- HDMI-eARC, OPT, AUX
- Integrations
- Dolby Atmos/Digital/Audio
- Power
- 110~240V
- Subwoofer Output
- ~50/60HZ
- Dimensions
- 15.7 x 1.5 x 3.0 in
- Dolby Atmos integration for immersive 3D audio
- Multiple connectivity options (HDMI-eARC, OPT, AUX)
- Works well with TV and computer
- Mixed opinions on adjustability
- Power output could be better
The ULTIMEA Nova S50 Dolby Atmos SoundBar stands out as the best budget soundbar under $300 for those seeking high-quality audio without breaking the bank. With its Dolby Atmos integration, it delivers an immersive 3D audio experience. Its compact design and easy installation make it a perfect fit for any home setup.
While some users have mixed opinions on its adjustability and power output, the ULTIMEA Nova S50 impresses with its overall performance. Offering multiple connectivity options such as HDMI-eARC, OPT, and AUX, it provides flexibility for use with both TVs and computers. With its blend of quality and affordability, this soundbar truly shines as the best budget option under $300.
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Choosing the Best Soundbar Under $300
When choosing a soundbar under $300, it’s important to consider:
- Audio Quality: Look for clear, balanced sound with good bass and treble.
- Connectivity Options: Make sure it has Bluetooth, HDMI, and optical inputs for versatility.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands often provide better build quality and customer support.
FAQ
Q: What should I consider when buying a soundbar under $300?
Look for features like audio quality, connectivity options (Bluetooth, HDMI, Wi-Fi), ease of setup, and compatibility with your TV or other devices.
Q: Are soundbars under $300 good for home theaters?
Yes, many soundbars in this price range offer excellent sound quality and features like Dolby Atmos and DTS for an immersive home theater experience.
Q: Do soundbars under $300 come with subwoofers?
Some models include built-in or separate wireless subwoofers to enhance bass performance. Check product specifications for details.
