Best of Soundbar: Top Picks for Every Home Theater Setup in 2025
In 2025, soundbar systems have become the foundation of home entertainment, combining cutting-edge audio tech with sleek design. A home theater system often includes a soundbar to enhance the overall audio experience. Whether you’re binging the latest Netflix show, gaming in an immersive world, or curating a playlist for the weekend, a good soundbar system can elevate your experience.
This guide covers the best soundbars of 2025, featuring five great models: Samsung HW-Q990D, LG S90TR, Hisense AX5125H, Sonos Beam (Gen 2), and Bose Smart Soundbar 900. We’ll dive into their features, specs and use cases, and provide a comparison to help you find the best soundbar for your home theater setup. Since today’s date is March 27, 2025, these picks reflect the latest audio tech so you’re ahead of the curve.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Best of Soundbar 2025
Choosing the Right Soundbar
What to Consider When Buying a Soundbar
Soundbar Features
Smart Soundbar Options
Surround Sound and Dolby Atmos
Best Soundbars for Every Budget
Budget: Hisense AX5125H
Mid-Range: LG S90TR
High-End: Samsung HW-Q990D
Premium: Bose Smart Soundbar 900 with Dolby Atmos
Best Soundbars for Specific Needs
Best Soundbar for TV: Sonos Beam (Gen 2)
Best Soundbar for Gaming: Samsung HW-Q930D with Wireless Subwoofer
Best Soundbar for Music: Bose Smart Soundbar 900
Soundbar Reviews and Ratings
Samsung HW-Q990D
LG S90TR
Hisense AX5125H
Sonos Beam (Gen 2)
Bose Smart Soundbar 900
Comparison of the Top Five Soundbars
Soundbar Trends and Future Developments
New Soundbars Arriving in 2025
Choosing the Right Soundbar
Picking the best soundbar for 2025 requires some thought, balancing your room’s layout, entertainment habits and budget. This section expands on the key decision-making factors, optimized for searches like “how to choose a soundbar 2025,” “best Dolby Atmos soundbars,” and “soundbar buying guide.”
Size and Space: The physical size of your soundbar is important. A 65-inch TV pairs well with a 50-55-inch soundbar like the Samsung HW-Q990D which is 48.5 inches wide, while a 32-inch TV suits the compact 25.6-inch Sonos Beam. Room size matters too—small apartments (under 150 sq ft) need standalone units, while larger spaces (300+ sq ft) require multi-component systems like the Hisense AX5125H with rear speakers. Measure your TV stand or wall space to avoid a mismatched setup.* Dolby Atmos Support: For “Dolby Atmos soundbars 2025” this is a game changer, 3D audio that moves above and around you. The Samsung HW-Q990D’s 11.1.4 setup uses four up-firing speakers for precise height effects, the Sonos Beam’s virtual Atmos relies on psychoacoustic processing—less immersive but space saving. If you’re upgrading from a 2.1 system, Atmos is worth the investment for movies like Dune: Part Two or games like Cyberpunk 2077.
Connection Type: Connectivity options shape your experience. HDMI eARC, standard on all five models, supports high-bandwidth audio (e.g., Atmos) and is ideal for modern TVs—search “soundbars with HDMI eARC 2025” to see why. Optical ports (Hisense, Samsung) for older sets, Bluetooth/Wi-Fi (Sonos, Bose) for wireless soundbars 2025 for streaming Spotify or YouTube. Check your TV’s ports—HDMI 2.1 on the Samsung HW-Q990D also supports 4K/120Hz gaming.
Sound Quality: Keywords like “best sound quality soundbars 2025” lead here. Audio performance is crucial for dialogue-heavy shows (e.g., Succession), a subwoofer (included with Samsung, LG, Hisense) for action scenes in Mad Max: Fury Road. Technologies like ClearDialog enhance upper-midrange frequencies to make voices sound clearer, improving the listening experience for dialogue-heavy content. Rear speakers (Samsung, Hisense) for 360-degree soundstage, perfect for surround sound enthusiasts. Test tracks like Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy” for bass or Hans Zimmer’s “Interstellar” for depth.
Additional Features: Extras like wireless surround speakers (Samsung), voice assistants (Alexa on Sonos/Bose), or room correction (LG, Samsung) for usability. For “smart soundbars 2025” Sonos integrates with Google Home, Samsung’s Q-Symphony with QLED TVs. Sound modes—movie, music, game—tailor audio to your content, a must for versatile setups.
These factors will guide you to the perfect soundbar, whether you’re a casual viewer or an audiophile. In everyday life, a soundbar enhances your TV sound, making dialogue clearer and action scenes more immersive.
Consider the size of your space and TV to ensure the soundbar fits seamlessly into your setup. Connectivity options like HDMI eARC and Bluetooth provide flexibility for connecting various devices, while wireless surround speakers offer a clutter-free audio experience. Smart features like voice control and app integration make it easy to adjust settings and stream music, enhancing convenience. Ultimately, these factors ensure your soundbar complements your lifestyle, providing great sound quality for movies, music, and gaming.
What to Consider When Buying a Soundbar
When buying a soundbar, there are several factors to consider to ensure you find the right one for your needs. Here are some key things to think about:
Sound Quality: The primary purpose of a soundbar is to enhance your TV sound, so the audio experience is paramount. Look for a soundbar that offers clear and detailed sound, with good bass response. Support for various audio formats such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X can significantly enhance your listening experience, providing immersive surround sound that makes you feel like you’re in the middle of the action. Dolby Atmos effects, in particular, add a vertical dimension to sound, enveloping you in a 3D audio environment that brings movies and music to life.
Size and Design: Consider the size of your TV and the space where the soundbar will be placed. A soundbar should complement your TV without overwhelming your space. For instance, the compact Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is perfect for smaller setups, while the larger Samsung HW-Q990D is ideal for bigger rooms and larger TVs. Ensure the soundbar fits comfortably under your TV or on a dedicated shelf. The design should also align with your home décor, offering a seamless blend with your existing setup.
Connectivity Options: Make sure the soundbar has the right connectivity options for your devices. HDMI eARC is essential for high-bandwidth audio formats like Dolby Atmos, while optical digital audio is a good fallback for older TVs. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity are great for streaming music from your mobile devices. The Samsung HW-Q990D, for example, offers HDMI 2.1, optical, and wireless options, making it highly versatile. Consider models with multiple HDMI inputs if you plan to connect several devices simultaneously.
Wireless Surround Speakers: For a more immersive surround sound experience, look for a soundbar with wireless surround speakers. These can be placed around the room to create a true home theater experience. The Hisense AX5125H, with its wireless surround speakers, is a great budget-friendly option for achieving this. Wireless rear speakers eliminate the need for cables, offering a cleaner setup and flexibility in speaker placement.
Smart Features: Some soundbars come with smart features such as voice control, Wi-Fi connectivity, and mobile app control. These features can enhance usability and integrate seamlessly with your smart home ecosystem. The Bose Smart Soundbar 900, for instance, offers voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant, making it a smart addition to any home. Additionally, features like Spotify Connect and Apple AirPlay 2 can enhance your music playback experience, providing easy access to streaming services.
Budget: Soundbars can range in price from under $100 to over $1,000, so set a budget and look for options within your price range. The Hisense AX5125H offers excellent value for money with its comprehensive feature set, while the Samsung HW-Q990D represents a premium investment for those seeking top-tier performance. Balance your budget with the features you value most, ensuring you get
Soundbar Features
Today’s soundbars are feature packed, catering to different needs from cinematic immersion to multi-room audio. This section is for “soundbar features 2025,” “Dolby Atmos vs DTS:X,” and “wireless surround soundbars.” Modern soundbars incorporate advanced audio technology to enhance the listening experience.
Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Support: Top “best surround soundbars 2025” searches, Dolby Atmos uses object-based audio to place sounds in a 3D space—rain falling overhead in Blade Runner 2049. Dolby Atmos effects create a three-dimensional soundscape, making you feel like you’re in the middle of the action. All five models support it, but the Samsung HW-Q990D adds DTS:X, a rival format with dynamic sound mapping, perfect for Blu-ray collectors. Discrete channels (e.g., LG’s 7.1.3) outperform virtual Atmos (Sonos) in precision.
Wireless Surround Speakers: For “wireless surround soundbars 2025” the Samsung HW-Q990D and Hisense AX5125H have detachable rear speakers, no cables and true surround sound. Place them behind your couch for a theater like experience during Avengers: Endgame. The Bose and Sonos have optional wireless surrounds, flexibility.
Optical Digital Audio: A fallback for “soundbars for older TVs 2025,” optical connections (Hisense, Samsung) for older sets without HDMI ARC. Less versatile than eARC but handles stereo or 5.1 audio well—great for budget upgrades.
Sound Mode Options: Custom presets for specific content. The LG S90TR’s AI Room Calibration for wall reflections, Samsung’s Game Mode Pro for “gaming soundbars 2025” like Elden Ring. Music modes on the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 for vocals on Taylor Swift.
Rear Speakers: Included with Samsung and Hisense or optional with Bose/Sonos, rear speakers for “true surround soundbars 2025.” Essential for hearing footsteps in Call of Duty: Warzone or crowd cheers in Ted Lasso. Placement tip: 3-6 feet behind your seating area.
Subwoofer: A subwoofer—wireless on Samsung (8-inch), LG, and Hisense— for “deep bass soundbars 2025.” Crucial for feeling explosions in Top Gun: Maverick or kicks in EDM tracks. The Sonos and Bose require separate purchases (e.g., Sonos Sub Mini, $429), added cost but customization.
These are the features that define the state of the art in soundbars 2025, offering a comprehensive suite of capabilities that elevate your home audio experience. Soundbars in 2025 are equipped with advanced technologies like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which deliver immersive surround sound by adding height channels. This creates a three-dimensional audio environment that envelops you in a soundscape where rain can be heard falling overhead or footsteps echoing around you.
Wireless surround speakers are a hallmark of modern soundbars, providing the flexibility to place speakers around your room without the hassle of cables. This feature enhances the realism of the audio experience, making you feel as if you’re in the middle of the action, whether you’re watching a movie or playing a game.
Connectivity options have also evolved, with HDMI eARC ports becoming standard, ensuring high-bandwidth audio transmission for formats like Dolby Atmos. Optical digital audio remains a reliable fallback for older TV models. Additionally, many soundbars now offer Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for seamless audio streaming from mobile devices and integration with smart home systems.
Sound modes tailored to different content types, such as movies, music, or games, are common, allowing users to optimize audio settings for their specific needs. This customization ensures that whether you’re watching an action-packed film or a dialogue-heavy drama, the sound quality enhances the viewing experience.
Furthermore, smart features like voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant, along with mobile app integration, provide easy control and customization of your soundbar settings. These innovations make soundbars not just an addition to your home theater setup but an integral part of your smart home ecosystem.
Overall, these features collectively define the cutting-edge soundbar technology of 2025, offering unparalleled sound quality, immersive audio experiences, and seamless connectivity that cater to a diverse range of user needs.
Smart Soundbar Options
If you’re looking for a soundbar with smart features, here are some options to consider:
Amazon Alexa Integration: Soundbars with Amazon Alexa integration allow you to control the soundbar with voice commands, making it easy to adjust volume, change tracks, or even control other smart home devices. The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is a great example, offering seamless Alexa integration for hands-free control.
Google Assistant Integration: Some soundbars come with Google Assistant integration, providing similar voice control capabilities and access to Google’s suite of services. The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 supports Google Assistant, allowing you to control your soundbar and other smart devices with your voice, making it a valuable addition to your smart home ecosystem.
Wi-Fi Connectivity: Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to stream music and other audio content directly from your mobile device or computer. This feature is particularly useful for accessing high-quality streaming services like Tidal or Apple Music. The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) and Bose Smart Soundbar 900 both offer robust Wi-Fi connectivity, making them excellent choices for streaming enthusiasts.
Mobile App Control: Many soundbars come with a mobile app that allows you to control the soundbar, adjust settings, and access other features. The Sonos app, for instance, provides comprehensive control over the Sonos Beam (Gen 2), including room calibration and multi-room audio setup.
Surround Sound and Dolby Atmos
If you’re looking for a soundbar with surround sound and Dolby Atmos capabilities, here are some options to consider:
Dolby Atmos Support: Dolby Atmos provides a more immersive audio experience by adding height channels, allowing sounds to move above and around you. The Samsung HW-Q990D, with its 11.1.4 setup, offers exceptional Dolby Atmos support, making it perfect for movies and gaming.
Wireless Surround Speakers: For a true surround sound experience, consider a soundbar with wireless surround speakers. These can be placed around the room to create an enveloping soundstage. The Hisense AX5125H includes wireless surround speakers, providing an affordable way to achieve immersive surround sound.
Immersive Sound Modes: Some soundbars come with immersive sound modes that enhance the surround sound experience. For example, the LG S90TR offers various sound modes, including a “movie” mode that enhances dialogue and sound effects for a cinematic experience.
Rear Speakers: Rear speakers can be placed behind the listener to create a more immersive surround sound experience. The Samsung HW-Q990D includes wireless rear speakers, making it easy to set up a comprehensive home theater system without the hassle of running cables.
Best Soundbars for Every Budget
In 2025, the range of soundbars available caters to diverse budgets and needs, ensuring that everyone can find the perfect audio solution for their home theater setup. Whether you're looking for an affordable option or willing to invest in a high-end model, there's a soundbar that fits your financial plan without compromising on quality. Here's a closer look at the best soundbars across different price points:
Budget: Hisense AX5125H
Setup: 5.1.2
Key Features: Dolby Atmos, wireless subwoofer, two wireless surround speakers, HDMI/optical
Price: Approximately $350
The Hisense AX5125H stands out as an exceptional choice for those seeking high-quality sound on a budget. Its 5.1.2 setup delivers a captivating audio experience, with Dolby Atmos providing immersive surround sound that enhances everything from movie nights to gaming sessions. The inclusion of a wireless subwoofer and two wireless surround speakers offers flexibility in placement, ensuring you get the best sound quality without the clutter of cables. With both HDMI and optical connections, this soundbar is versatile enough to work with a variety of TV models, making it an excellent choice for those with older or newer setups. Priced at approximately $350, the Hisense AX5125H offers exceptional value, delivering a powerful audio performance typically found in more expensive models. Whether you’re watching the latest blockbuster or listening to your favorite music, this soundbar system enhances the audio experience, providing a detailed and enveloping soundstage that brings content to life, making it a great value for money.
Mid-Range: LG S90TR
Setup: 7.1.3
Key Features: Dolby Atmos, room correction, wireless subwoofer, WOWCAST, 570W
Price: Approximately $800-$1,000
For those seeking a balance between performance and price, the LG S90TR is a top contender in the mid-range category. Its 7.1.3 configuration includes three up-firing speakers for height effects, creating a truly immersive sound experience. The soundbar's room correction feature adjusts audio output based on your room's acoustics, ensuring optimal sound quality regardless of your space's shape or furnishings. With a power output of 570 watts, the LG S90TR is well-suited for larger rooms, delivering rich and balanced audio that enhances movies, music, and games alike. While it lacks HDMI 2.1 for next-gen gaming, its WOWCAST feature allows for wireless pairing with LG OLEDs, making it a great choice for LG TV owners.
High-End: Samsung HW-Q990D
Setup: 11.1.4
Key Features: Dolby Atmos/DTS:X, wireless subwoofer, wireless rear speakers, HDMI 2.1, 656W
Price: Approximately $1,800
For those who demand the best in audio performance, the Samsung HW-Q990D is the pinnacle of high-end soundbars. Its 11.1.4 setup, combined with 656 watts of power, creates an unparalleled immersive listening experience. The soundbar features four up-firing speakers and wireless rear units, enveloping you in a sound bubble that brings movies and games to life with breathtaking realism. HDMI 2.1 support ensures compatibility with the latest gaming consoles, offering 4K/120Hz gaming capabilities for an unmatched gaming experience. Samsung's Q-Symphony technology synchronizes the soundbar with Samsung TVs, while SpaceFit Sound calibrates audio output to your room's unique acoustics. Although it's a significant investment, the Samsung HW-Q990D is the ultimate choice for serious audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts.
These options illustrate the versatility and range of soundbars available in 2025, catering to different budgets and preferences while delivering exceptional audio experiences for every home theater setup.
Best Soundbars for Specific Needs
Compact: Sonos Beam (Gen 2)
Setup: 5.0 (virtual surround)
Key Features: Dolby Atmos, compact design, Sonos ecosystem, HDMI eARC, 120W
Price: ~$500
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is the go-to choice for those seeking a compact yet powerful soundbar. Its virtual surround sound capabilities, powered by Dolby Atmos, deliver a surprisingly immersive audio experience despite its small footprint.
This soundbar integrates seamlessly into the Sonos ecosystem, allowing for easy expansion with additional speakers for a more comprehensive setup. The HDMI eARC connection ensures high-quality audio transmission, making it perfect for enhancing dialogue clarity in TV shows and movies.
The compact design fits neatly under most TVs, making it ideal for smaller spaces or minimalist setups. With 120W of output power, the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is loud enough to fill a living room, yet refined enough to highlight the nuances in music and dialogue. Its Speech Enhancement mode is particularly beneficial for improving dialogue clarity in content like The Crown, ensuring you don't miss a word.
Mid-Range: LG S90TR
Setup: 7.1.3
Key Features: Dolby Atmos, room correction, wireless subwoofer, WOWCAST, 570W
Price: ~$800-$1,000
The LG S90TR offers a robust mid-range option for those seeking a balance between performance and price. Its 7.1.3 configuration includes three up-firing speakers to deliver height effects, creating a truly immersive sound experience.
The soundbar's room correction feature automatically adjusts audio output based on your room's acoustics, ensuring optimal sound quality regardless of your space's shape or furnishings. With a power output of 570 watts, the LG S90TR is well-suited for larger rooms, delivering rich and balanced audio that enhances movies, music, and games alike. While it lacks HDMI 2.1 for next-gen gaming, its WOWCAST feature allows for wireless pairing with LG OLEDs, making it a great choice for LG TV owners.
High-End: Samsung HW-Q990D
Setup: 11.1.4
Key Features: Dolby Atmos/DTS:X, wireless subwoofer, wireless rear speakers, HDMI 2.1, 656W
Price: ~$1,800
The Samsung HW-Q990D is the pinnacle of high-end soundbars, offering unparalleled audio performance for those who demand the best. Its 11.1.4 setup, combined with 656 watts of power, creates an immersive listening experience that envelops you in a sound bubble, bringing movies and games to life with breathtaking realism.
The soundbar features four up-firing speakers and wireless rear units, ensuring a comprehensive surround sound experience. HDMI 2.1 support ensures compatibility with the latest gaming consoles, offering 4K/120Hz gaming capabilities for an unmatched gaming experience. Samsung's Q-Symphony technology synchronizes the soundbar with Samsung TVs, while SpaceFit Sound calibrates audio output to your room's unique acoustics.
Although it's a significant investment, the Samsung HW-Q990D is the ultimate choice for serious audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts.
Premium: Bose Smart Soundbar 900 with Dolby Atmos
Setup: 5.0.2
Key Features: Dolby Atmos, one-piece design, Bose ecosystem, optional subwoofer, 300W
Price: ~$900
The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 combines premium sound quality with a sleek, one-piece design that integrates seamlessly into any home decor. Its 5.0.2 setup, powered by Dolby Atmos, delivers a wide soundstage that enhances the audio experience for movies, music, and games. The soundbar's output of 300 watts provides ample power to fill a room with rich, detailed sound.
As part of the Bose ecosystem, it offers the flexibility to expand with additional components, such as a subwoofer or rear speakers, for a more immersive setup. The Bose Music app provides easy control over the soundbar, allowing you to adjust settings, stream music, and access various audio services.
Despite the additional cost of add-ons, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 stands out for its standalone quality and aesthetic appeal, making it a top choice for music lovers and those seeking a premium audio solution.
This section expands on use-case picks, targeting “best soundbars for TV 2025,” “gaming soundbars,” and “music soundbars.”
Sound Bar Systems by Use
Best Soundbar for TV: Sonos Beam (Gen 2)
Why It Excels: The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is a standout choice for TV enthusiasts seeking a compact yet powerful sound solution. Its virtual Dolby Atmos technology provides an immersive audio experience, enhancing the sound quality of TVs ranging from 32 to 55 inches. This soundbar excels in delivering clear dialogue, making it perfect for shows like The Crown, where understanding every whisper and accent is essential. With a 120W output, it’s powerful enough to fill a living room with sound, while the Sonos Speech Enhancement mode ensures dialogue clarity. Pairing it with the Sonos Arc allows for a multi-room TV audio setup in 2025, offering synchronized sound across multiple rooms.
Performance: Rated at 4.5/5, the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) performs exceptionally well for both streaming services and cable TV, providing a balanced audio experience that enhances any viewing session.
Best Soundbar for Gaming: Samsung HW-Q930D with Wireless Subwoofer (Alternative to HW-Q990D)
Why It Excels: The Samsung HW-Q930D is designed for gamers who demand top-notch audio performance. With a 9.1.4 channel setup and priced at $1,300, this soundbar offers HDMI 2.1 connectivity and a low 20ms input lag, making it ideal for gaming soundbars in 2025. Dolby Atmos support ensures an immersive gaming experience, allowing players to hear enemy movements in games like Halo Infinite with precision, thanks to the included rear speakers. It’s a more affordable option than the HW-Q990D, offering a similar level of immersion while saving $500, making it an excellent choice for gamers seeking high-quality audio without breaking the bank.
Performance: With a performance rating of 4.5/5, the Samsung HW-Q930D is responsive and dynamic, providing gamers with the audio clarity and depth needed for an immersive gaming experience.
Best Soundbar for Music: Bose Smart Soundbar 900
Why It Excels: The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 is perfect for music lovers, offering a wide soundstage and a powerful 300W output, making it one of the top music soundbars in 2025. It excels in delivering detailed audio, whether you're listening to jazz from Miles Davis or rocking out to Led Zeppelin. The addition of a Bass Module allows the soundbar to reach sub-40Hz bass levels, enhancing the audio experience for bass-heavy tracks. The Bose Music app provides access to high-quality streaming services like Tidal, allowing for easy control and customization of your listening experience.
Performance: The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 is rated highly for its
Best Soundbar for Large Rooms: JBL Bar 9.1
When it comes to filling large rooms with immersive sound, the JBL Bar 9.1 stands out as a top contender. This soundbar system is designed to deliver a powerful audio experience, making it ideal for expansive living spaces and home theaters.
Soundbar Reviews and Ratings
Here’s an expanded review section for “soundbar reviews 2025” and model-specific searches, providing a detailed analysis of each top model.
Samsung HW-Q990D
Rating: 4.5/5
Review: The Samsung HW-Q990D is a powerhouse in the realm of Dolby Atmos soundbars for 2025, earning its reputation as a top-tier choice. With a robust 656W output and an 11.1.4 channel configuration, it fills rooms with a rich, immersive sound that makes explosions in movies like Furiosa feel incredibly real. The Dolby Atmos effects create a dynamic, three-dimensional soundscape, allowing every scene to feel more engaging and lifelike. The audio clarity is exceptional, making every detail in the soundscape stand out. Gamers particularly appreciate the HDMI 2.1 passthrough, which supports high-resolution and high-refresh-rate gaming. However, its $1,800 price tag and 60-inch width mean it requires a significant investment and space commitment.
Pros: Exceptional immersion, ideal for gaming and movie enthusiasts, extensive customization options.
Cons: High cost, large size may not fit all setups.
LG S90TR
Rating: 4.2/5
Review: Positioned as a mid-range Atmos soundbar for 2025, the LG S90TR offers a solid 7.1.3 setup with 570W of power. It excels in delivering height effects, especially noticeable in films like Gravity. The room correction feature is particularly beneficial for odd-shaped rooms, optimizing audio output to suit the environment. While it lacks HDMI 2.1, which is crucial for next-gen gaming, its WOWCAST feature is a boon for LG TV owners, allowing for seamless integration.
Pros: Impressive Atmos performance, strong LG integration, balanced sound output.
Cons: Limited connectivity options, absence of DTS:X support.
Hisense AX5125H
Rating: 4.3/5
Review: As a standout in the budget surround soundbars category for 2025, the Hisense AX5125H offers a 5.1.2 setup and 300W of power. Its ability to deliver Atmos effects in movies like The Matrix is impressive for its price point of approximately $350. The inclusion of wireless components simplifies setup, though the lack of app control is a downside. Nevertheless, the value it offers is unmatched in its category.
Pros: Affordable pricing, effective surround sound, easy setup.
Cons: Lacks refinement and advanced controls.
Sonos Beam (Gen 2)
Rating: 4.5/5
Review: The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is celebrated as the best compact soundbar of 2025, delivering 120W of power and virtual Atmos capabilities that shine in shows like Stranger Things. Its integration into the Sonos ecosystem allows for multi-room audio setups, although the absence of a subwoofer results in lighter bass. This can be remedied with the $429 Sub Mini, making it an excellent choice for small setups.
Pros: Compact size, clear audio clarity, seamless Sonos integration.
Cons: Bass limitations, reliance on virtual Atmos.
Bose Smart Soundbar 900
Rating: 4.5/5
Review: The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 stands out as one of the best soundbars for music in 2025, with a 5.0.2 setup and 300W output. Its wide soundstage is particularly effective in delivering Atmos effects in movies like Inception, creating a big, immersive audio experience. While its design is aesthetically pleasing, the lack of HDMI inputs and the cost of additional components are drawbacks. However, its standalone quality and performance make it a compelling choice.
Pros: Attractive design, superior sound quality, effective Atmos implementation.
Cons: Limited input options, additional costs for full setup.
Comparison of the Top Five Soundbars
Here’s an expanded comparison for "soundbar comparison 2025":
| Feature | Samsung HW-Q990D | LG S90TR | Hisense AX5125H | Sonos Beam (Gen 2) | Bose Smart Soundbar 900 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Setup | 11.1.4 | 7.1.3 | 5.1.2 | 5.0 (virtual) | 5.0.2 |
| Dolby Atmos | Yes (discrete) | Yes (discrete) | Yes (discrete) | Yes (virtual) | Yes (discrete) |
| Subwoofer | Wireless, 8-inch | Wireless, 6.5-inch | Wireless, 6-inch | Optional (Sub Mini) | Optional (Bass Module 700) |
| Rear Speakers | Wireless, 2 | No | Wireless, 2 | Optional (Sonos One) | Optional (Surrounds) |
| Connection | HDMI 2.1, Optical | HDMI eARC | HDMI, Optical | HDMI eARC | HDMI eARC, Optical |
| Power Output | 656W | 570W | 300W | 120W | 300W |
| Price | $1,800 | $800-$1,000 | $350 | $500 | $900 |
| Sound Quality | Exceptional | Rich, balanced | Decent, bass-heavy | Clear, balanced | Wide, detailed |
| Best For | Gaming, Movies | Movies, LG TVs | Budget Surround | TV, Small Spaces | Music, Aesthetics |
| Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.2/5 | 4.3/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 |
Immersion: Samsung’s 11 channels and 656W lead, followed by LG (570W) and Hisense (300W). Sonos and Bose lean on virtual or expandable setups.
Value: Hisense wins for budget, LG for mid-range, Samsung for premium features.
Versatility: Samsung excels across uses, Bose for music, Sonos for TVs.
Soundbar Trends and Future Developments
The soundbar market is constantly evolving, with new technologies and features being introduced regularly. Here are some trends and future developments to watch out for:
Immersive Audio: Expect to see more soundbars with immersive audio capabilities, such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. These technologies provide a more enveloping sound experience, making you feel like you’re part of the action.
Wireless Surround Speakers: Wireless surround speakers are becoming more popular, allowing for a more immersive surround sound experience without the need for cables. This trend is likely to continue, with more soundbars offering wireless options for easy setup and flexibility.
Smart Soundbars: Smart soundbars with voice control, Wi-Fi connectivity, and mobile app control are becoming more popular. These features enhance usability and integrate seamlessly with other smart home devices, providing a more connected and convenient experience.
Gaming Soundbars: Soundbars specifically designed for gaming are becoming more popular, with features such as low latency and immersive audio. These soundbars are optimized for gaming, providing clear dialogue, detailed sound effects, and a competitive edge in fast-paced games.
New Soundbars Arriving in 2025
Here are some new soundbars that are expected to arrive in 2025:
Samsung HW-Q990F: Samsung’s latest offering, the HW-Q990F, promises to build on the success of the HW-Q990D with enhanced Dolby Atmos support and wireless surround speakers. This model is expected to deliver even more immersive sound with improved audio processing and additional features.
LG S20A: The LG S20A is set to be a game-changer with its immersive audio capabilities and wireless surround speakers. This soundbar is designed to provide a rich and detailed sound experience, making it perfect for movies, music, and gaming.
Sony HT-X8500: Sony’s HT-X8500 is expected to offer robust Dolby Atmos support and wireless surround speakers, providing a high-quality audio experience. This soundbar is likely to appeal to audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts looking for detailed sound and immersive audio.
Vizio Elevate M-Series: The Vizio Elevate M-Series is anticipated to feature immersive audio capabilities and wireless surround speakers, making it a strong contender in the mid-range market. This soundbar is expected to offer excellent value for money with its comprehensive feature set and high-quality sound.
These are just a few examples of the new soundbars that are expected to arrive in 2025. Be sure to check out reviews and compare features to find the best soundbar for your needs.
Conclusion
The best soundbars of 2025 cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets, ensuring that every home theater enthusiast can find the perfect fit.
The Samsung HW-Q990D stands out as the ultimate choice for gamers and movie buffs, offering an unparalleled immersive listening experience with its advanced Dolby Atmos and DTS:X capabilities. For those seeking a balance between performance and affordability, the LG S90TR provides outstanding sound quality with its 7.1.3 setup, making it a top contender for quality and cost-conscious buyers.
Budget-conscious consumers will appreciate the Hisense AX5125H, which offers a robust 5.1.2 configuration and wireless surround speakers, delivering impressive surround sound without breaking the bank. Meanwhile, the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is the ideal solution for smaller spaces, combining compact design with virtual Dolby Atmos to deliver powerful sound in a sleek package. Lastly, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 is perfect for music lovers, offering a rich, detailed soundstage that enhances every note and beat.
Whether you're searching for "Dolby Atmos soundbars," "budget audio upgrades," or "premium home theater systems," these top picks deliver exceptional performance and value in 2025. Each model is equipped with features that cater to specific needs, ensuring a tailored audio experience that transforms your home entertainment setup.
