The 10 Best Soundbar Under 250, Tested And Researched

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
VIZIO Sound Bar for TV, 29” Surround Sound System for TV
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: VIZIO Sound Bar for TV, 29” Surround Sound System for TV

The VIZIO 29” Sound Bar delivers immersive surround sound and crystal clear dialogue, even at low volumes. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Sony HT-S350 Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer: S350 2.1ch Sound Bar

This slim sound bar also features a wireless subwoofer that can be connected to the soundbar wirelessly. Plus, with Bluetooth connectivity, you can wirelessly send audio from any device to the soundbar and subwoofer. Read Review

3. Best Voice Assistant: VIZIO V-Series 5.1 Home Theater Sound Bar with Dolby Audio

VIZIO V-Series 5.1 Home Theater Sound Bar with Dolby Audio delivers crystal clear sound no matter the source. With DTS Virtual:X, any content is enhanced with virtualized 3D surround sound from all angles to create an immersive environment. Read Review

4. Top Choice: YAMAHA YAS-109 Sound Bar with Built-In Subwoofers, Bluetooth

This sound bar is equipped with a set of built-in subwoofers for tight, powerful low-end and features HDMI or optical connections for easy setup. Read Review

The soundbar is a speaker that can fit in any room without too much space. It needs to be compact but also powerful and rich in features. The soundbar should also combine seamlessly with other home audio devices. If you're looking for the best soundbar under $250, we've compiled a list of the best options. These products offer high-end performance at an affordable price point, making them perfect for anyone on a budget but still discerning about their audio setup.

We have tested many models in different price ranges and found the best soundbars under $250 worth buying. Apart from their compact sizes, these products have other properties that make them stand out from their competitors: they are all wireless, offer virtual surround sound, and even have Chromecast built-in functionality or other nifty features like distortion detection indicators or auto-tuning modes.

With our VIZIO Sound Bar for TV, 29” Surround Sound System for TV, you will have no difficulty finding anything to meet your needs! To help you find the best fit for your needs thanks to some outstanding features such as DTS technologies,  Ergonomic Remote...

Here are our recommendations.

Our Top Picks

  • Ergonomic Remote for convenient access to volume, input and audio controls
  • Bluetooth Streaming Lose the wires and listen to your music with a tap of a finger from anywhere in the room. (Performance and compatibility among Bluetooth devices may vary.)
  • 2.0 Premium Audio The VIZIO 2.0 Sound Bar is an easy way to enhance your audio experience when watching your favorite content on the TV. The full-range stereo speakers boost your audio, while DTS technologies simulate incredible surround sound
  • Table-stand or wall-mount options
  • Dimensions
  • Features DTS Studio Sound, DTS TruVolume and DTS TruSurround
  • Easy Setup With everything you need for a quick and easy setup, upgrading to a powerful audio experience has never been easier. Connect the Sound Bar to your TV using one of the included cables, sit back and enjoy
  • Wirelessly Connect: Connect via Bluetooth to Send Audio to the Slim Soundbar and Sub from Anywhere
  • Ultimate Home Theater Upgrade: Sony 2.1 Channel Sound Bar System With Wireless Subwoofer for Optimized Audio
  • Bluetooth Streaming: Stream Your Favorite Movies, Shows, and Music from Your Smartphone or Tablet
  • Voice Enhancement: Isolates Voices and Amplifies Them over the Background Noise for Greater Clarity
  • One-Cable Connect: Send Audio and Control Information from the TV Using a Single Cable with HDMI Arc
  • Audio Comes Alive:320W total power output brings content to life with incredible volume and clarity
  • Powerful Subwoofer: Large 6.30 Inches Speaker Unit and 6.16 Gallon Volume for a Deeper, Richer Bass Sound
  • S-Force Pro: Virtual Surround Sound Technology Emulates a Theater-Style Surround Sound Experience
  • 7 Sound Modes: Choose from Auto Sound, Cinema, Music, Game, News, Sports, and Standard Audio Mode
  • In the Box: Soundbar, Subwoofer, Remote Control, Batteries, Optical Cable, Quick Setup Guide, Manual
TOP Choice #3 VIZIO V-Series 5.1 Home Theater Sound Bar with Dolby Audio
Our Score:
9.5
VIZIO
  • Optimized for 4K HDR content with Dolby Audio 5.1 Bring out the best audio performance from your 4K HDR content with Dolby Audio 5.1 when connected through HDMI.
  • DTS Virtual:X: Enhances any content with room-filling, floor-to-ceiling virtualized 3D sound.
  • 5” Wireless Subwoofer Place the wireless subwoofer anywhere in the room to add deep booming bass.
  • Voice Assistant Input Use our voice to control your Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant devices through the sound bar with a dedicated 3.5 Aux or Persistent Bluetooth connection.
  • Loud and Clear: The 96dB sound pressure level and 50Hz – 20kHz frequency range deliver dynamic and accurate Sound.
  • Alexa built in for voice control of your sound bar, playing music, listening to news, setting alarms and timers, asking questions, controlling smart home devices, and more
  • DTS Virtual: x Virtual 3D surround sound. Audio Formats-File Format-WAV (PCM format only) / FLAC: up to 192kHz, ALAC: up to 96kHz, MP3 / WMA / MPEG-4 AAC: up to 48 kHz
  • Easy setup with HDMI or Optical connections
  • With Alexa, playing music is as simple as asking for a song, artist, or genre from Amazon music and more
  • Built in subwoofers for deep bass in 1 slim sound bar
  • Play music and podcasts through Spotify connect, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth
  • Clear voice for enhanced dialogue clarity. Output power: 120W
  • Wireless Surround Sound Ready - Wirelessly pair the 2.0ch Rear Speaker Kit expansion to deliver audio from behind for greater depth and immersive surround sound. (Rear Speaker Kit available separately)
  • High Resolution Audio (24bit / 96kHz): Sounds closer to the real thing. Higher sampling rates and bit depth provide sound quality that surpasses CDs.
  • Bluetooth Streaming - Wirelessly stream with Bluetooth 4.2 to provide range and reliability to wirelessly connect your LG sound bar to your tablet, phone or other device.
  • DTS Virtual: X - Hear every detail. Transform any movie, TV show or playlist into an immersive, multidimensional audio experience..
  • Power Source Type: Corded Electric. Subwoofer (WxHxD)-7.1 x 15.4 x 11.5 inches. TV Matching-40 inch
  • 2.1 Channel 400W - Perfect when you want to give your TV a boost with sound bar and subwoofer - 2.1ch sound, great audio quality and minimalist design.
  • Easy set up with TV
  • Voice enhancement feature strengthens listening experience – ideal for TV content with hushed dialogue or conference call quality
  • Deep bass with built-in subwoofer
  • IN THE BOX: Remote Control - Batteries for remote commander - Optical Cable - AC Adapter - AC Cord - Foot Pad
  • Low-profile design does not obstruct the view of your television
  • Straight from the theater to your home: Easy set-up, 2.1 Ch built in subwoofer, with simple Bluetooth connection
  • UPGRADE YOUR HOME THEATER SURROUND SOUND SYSTEM – Watch your favorite shows on your 4K and 8K HD Smart TV with exceptional picture quality & clear sound. With numerous connection possibilities, plug in any audio source via HDMI ARC, optical input & 3.5mm audio jack
  • POLK’S EXCLUSIVE VOICE ADJUST TECHNOLOGY & Dolby Digital 5.1 Decoding helps maximize sound clarity & reduces voice delays. Hear clear, crisp dialogue of your favorite movies, TV shows and sporting events with three distinct settings
  • ULTRA-SLIM SOUNDBAR WITH WIRELESS SUBWOOFER – Features 2.1 channel performance-tuned drivers - (2) 1.25” x 4.4”oval mid-range drivers & (2) 1” Tweeters, and the included 5.25” subwoofer delivers INCREDIBLE ROOM-FILLING SOUND WITH DEEP BASS
  • SET UP YOUR SOUND BAR IN MINUTES — the included HDMI and optical cables quickly connect your TV and subwoofer to the sound bar
  • WIRELESSLY STREAM MUSIC from your favorite streaming apps like Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn, and more from your smartphone, tablet or other compatible devices via Bluetooth, or use Google Chromecast to listen to music over Wi-Fi with your Google Home speaker
  • EXCELLENT SOUND AND VALUE on par with any mid- to high-range sound bars available in the market. At 2" tall, the Signa S3 fits most spaces — easily wall-mount it or place in front of your TV. It won’t block your TV’s bottom edge or IR remote sensor
  • New modern design Angular all-in-one design packed with performance and slides beneath your TV for a clean look.
  • Loud and Clear The 98dB sound pressure level and 50Hz – 20kHz frequency range deliver dynamic and accurate Sound
  • 6 Precisely Designed Speakers 2-way speaker design with separate tweeters and woofers create richer, clearer sound.
  • Optimized for 4K HDR content with Dolby Audio Bring out the best audio performance from your 4K HDR content with Dolby Audio when connected through HDMI.
  • DTS Virtual:X Enhances any content with room-filling, floor-to-ceiling virtualized 3D sound.
  • High Power with Slim Design: The HT-S100F soundbar packs a punch without sacrificing a compact profile, with an incredible output of 120W. Hear the booming sounds you love from your favorite shows and moves
  • Bundle Includes: Sony HT-S100F 2.0 Channel Soundbar with Integrated Tweeter, Knox Gear Universal TV Sound Bar Bracket Mount for 23-65 Inch TVs, and Knox Gear Nylon-Braided 4K HDMI to HDMI Cable (6-Foot)
  • Built-in Tweeter: Built-in tweeter recreates a full range of sounds, from the high note of your favorite song
  • Perfect Pairing and Simple Connectivity with Your TV: Connecting to your TV has never been easier. With HDMI ARC, one cable gives an easy connection for all your TV audio. You can control both your TV and soundbar with one remote
  • Bass Reflex Speaker: A speaker that delivers punchy bass without compromising detail and clarity, perfect for enjoying TV shows and music
  • Remote Control: Operate the bluetooth sound bar far away or directly on the device; the full-function remote lets you control the TV sound bar from the comfort of your bed or couch
  • Fabulous Home Theater Experience: No need to turn up your TV to the highest volume to hear the sound, this built-in 50-watt output powerful TV speaker will provide a high-end audio experience with a 31-inch compact size
  • Wireless & Wired Connection: Efficient and stable wireless connection via Bluetooth 5.0; establish a wired connection through AUX/RCA, optical fiber, USB, and more to connect to your mobile phones, laptops, TVs, computers, projectors, USB Disk, set-top boxes, etc
  • Our Warranty Policy : We provide a 12-month warranty for our 31-inch wall-mountable TV speaker which measures 30.7 x 2.4 x 2.4in. Please leave your questions on QA or contact us immediately if you have any questions
  • Built-In DSP & 3 EQ Modes: Switch between 3 distinct equalizer modes (Game / Music / Movie Mode) via the remote control or press the buttons on the bluetooth sound bar to choose your favorite sound style
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What Are the Main Ways for Picking best soundbar under 250, According to Experts?

Even during the shopping process, many things need to be considered. There are many different ways to access research material. Understand this. Our entire team is ready to lend you a hand, offer advice, and provide answers to your problems.

You should be able to access the best soundbar under 250 more easily with the tremendous rise of information sources. For you, our research ensures precision and objectivity thanks to AI techniques and Big Data.

Remember to think about factors like brand and product while purchasing the best soundbar under 250. All of this will influence how well your product fits your requirements.

Ease Of Set-up And Use

It is easy to hook up the soundbar with your TV or other device and get started using it immediately. This can be gauged by looking at the manual or reading some user reviews.

Number Of Channels And Speakers

A soundbar with just 2.1 channels may be enough to enhance the audio quality of your TV. A 5.1 and 7.1 models might offer better sound quality when you watch TV/movies or listen to audio. Dolby Atmos is available on 5.1.2 and 7.1.2 models. This technology allows for a richer experience. It involves placing speakers higher than the roof, to create sound from above.

Additional Features

You might also want these features in your soundbar:
There are special sound modes for various audio types, such as watching movies, listening to music, or gaming. You can adjust the treble and bass settings depending on what you are watching/listening too.
Compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa for voice-controlled music.
Front-panel displays that display important information, such as volume levels. Make sure to check if this display is able to be switched off when it's not in use so that it does not become distracting.

App

A number of soundbars are also possible to be controlled via a smartphone app. Learn more about the app and its ease of use.

Wired/wireless Speakers

Some soundbars allow for wired and wireless connection to other speakers. Some soundbars only support a subwoofer. However, a few models offer "surround sound" connectivity, which allows you to connect other speakers to the rear of the room to replicate 5.1. You can purchase these speakers separately or as a bundle at an extra cost.

Size

To ensure that the unit will not block the screen, or interfere with the remote control or display of your TV's remote, check its dimensions. You should also check that the design of the unit matches your TV.

Connectivity

Soundbars typically only require one cable to connect with your TV. HDMI is the best choice. Make sure that your soundbar is equipped with all necessary ports for connecting to Blu-ray players and USB storage. You should check if your soundbar has a pass-through function that transmits 4K HDR video from your 4K HDR TV.

Subwoofer

In large rooms, a soundbar with an external subwoofer (or dedicated soundbar) can be more effective than one without it. A subwoofer that is well made will enhance low-end sound quality and add a cinematic vibe to your system. A sub that is poorly designed can cause a drop in sound quality. A soundbase is a great option if you need bass, but aren't able to fit an external sub. They include an integrated subwoofer.

Remote Control

Some soundbars include a remote control, while others can be controlled using your TV remote. If you have a remote, ensure it is intuitive and easy to use.

Wi-Fi And Bluetooth

Bluetooth is an important soundbar feature that allows you stream music from compatible phones, tablets and computers to your soundbar. Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to stream music from your Spotify account or access cloud music libraries.

FAQs

Can You Use Any Soundbar With Any TV?

There are very few exceptions to this rule. However, you can still use your soundbar with any TV. It is helpful sometimes to match soundbar and TV brands. New soundbars often use HDMI ARC to transmit the audio from the TV's speakers through the soundbar. If both of your devices have this port, you are good. An optical connection is available on some older soundbars, and almost all TVs have them.

Can You Use A Soundbar To Play Music?

A soundbar can make music play through your TV much more enjoyable. Bluetooth is a feature that many soundbars offer, so you won't have to turn on the TV to hear your music. A soundbar that has a wireless subwoofer will work best to reproduce deep bass and dynamics.

Are Soundbars Really Worth It?

They are well worth the investment when compared to how loud your TV sounds. A soundbar costs only $100 and can make your TV viewing experience 10x better. A soundbar can make it easier to understand speech by allowing TV speakers to face down.

Can You Add Speakers To A Sound Bar?

There are both yes and no. Some sound bars have additional speakers that can be added to the system, which brings you closer to home theatre sound. If the soundbar is multi-room compatible, then wireless rear speakers can be added. This is a good option for those who have or want to install a multi-room sound system in their home.

How Do I Connect A Soundbar To My TV?

There are three ways you can output soundbars depending on your TV's age: digital optical, analog (3.5mm headphones or RCA), and digital optical. Make sure your soundbar is compatible with the TV's connections before you purchase it. HDMI is the most popular input for soundbars. If your TV has less than 5 years, it will likely be compatible. However, it is worth checking twice.

Where Do I Place My Soundbar?

The soundbars can be placed directly in front of your TV using a stand, or any other type of furniture. They are usually less than 2 inches high so they won't interfere with the infrared remote port of your TV or block it. Some soundbars are also wall-mountable and include brackets. There are third-party kits that can be used to mount soundbars on the wall.

Will A Soundbar Improve Sound Quality?

Modern TVs have very tiny speakers which bounce sound off of your TV. As a result, they can be distant and harsh. A soundbar can be added to most TVs to improve their sound quality, particularly when it comes down to reproducing spoken words. It will also allow you to listen to music.

Can A Sound Bar Be Used As A Center Speaker?

There are some that can and others that can't, but it's not something we recommend. Although a passive soundbar could technically be used to provide center channel speakers, this is not what it was designed for. This is like asking a pitcher to play both catch and second base instead of the only position that he excels at.

Can You Add A Subwoofer To A Sound Bar?

Wireless sound bars often come with a subwoofer. You can also add your own wireless subwoofer to the sound bars that do not have one. If you desire an immersive experience, you'll want it.

What Is "Cinema Sound"?

Many sound bars offer a "cinema sound", or "movieplex sounds", which, according to them, mimics real home theater sound. Reality: It adds a small digital delay to the sound, similar to a fractional echo (think of reverb). Although it doesn't create a true home theatre sound, it can make the room seem larger. Some are incredible, but it's not free.

In general, it's difficult to say who creates the best soundbar under 250 since each firm has unique qualities, features, and pricing points that set them apart from the competition. We only sell products from the most outstanding manufacturers on our site, so we can promise that our clients will be pleased with their purchase.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require assistance with your problems. Wish you a happy shopping!


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About Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward is an elite author with many years of experience in the music field and the owner of many engaging articles at TheAudioInsights. He studies music production and has many years of passionate research into sound systems. Appearing in many popular newspapers, Nicolas Ward provides useful knowledge and the latest information on music and sound.