The Best Speaker for Smart TV
BestProducts evaluated the best speaker for smart TV across multiple price tiers. Our analysis of sound quality, connectivity, and extra features helps you find the perfect upgrade for your setup.
By Maxine Hansen
Updated September 11, 2026
Upgrading smart TV’s built-in speakers is one of the easiest ways to transform your home-entertainment experience. Today’s best speaker for smart TV can make flat, muddy dialogue crisp and immerse you in room-filling sound.
With Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X becoming common, a dedicated speaker system is no longer a luxury, it’s a must-have for anyone serious about their content.
BestProducts evaluated every major soundbar and compact system using a research methodology that combines deep spec analysis, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback. We scored each product on our 0-to-10 BP Score and chose the nine most versatile performers.
If you also consider visual upgrades, take a look at our guide to the best webcam for smart TV. Below is a roundup of the best speaker for smart TV in 2026.
| Award | Product | BP Score About BP ScoreThe BP Score is our own rating from 0 to 10, based on performance, design and build, ease of use, and value. It reflects independent research and is never influenced by manufacturers, retailers, or affiliate commissions. Learn more › | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Premium |
Amazon Fire TV Soundbar 2.0
|
9.9/10 | $119.99 | Buy |
| Best Overall |
TCL S45H 2.0 Sound Bar
|
9.9/10 | $79.99 | Buy |
| Best Value |
Samsung HW B400F 2.0 Soundbar with Built-in
|
9.8/10 | $89.99 | Buy |
| Best Budget |
RIOWOIS 17-Inch Sound Bar
|
9.6/10 | $33.99 | Buy |
Bose TV Speaker Compact Soundbar
|
9.6/10 | $210.99 | Buy | |
Fansbe Direct Sound Bar 30W RMS
|
9.5/10 | $49.99 | Buy | |
Assistrust 31" Soundbar with Bluetooth 5.0
|
9.5/10 | $49.99 | Buy | |
ULTIMEA Poseidon M60 5.1CH Dolby Atmos Soundbar
|
9.5/10 | $158.58 | Buy | |
Saiyin 11.7-Inch Sound Bar Center-Channel Speaker
|
9.4/10 | $28.99 | Buy |
Amazon Fire TV Soundbar 2.0
The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar is a compact 2.0 speaker system that upgrades TV audio with fuller sound and clearer dialogue. It supports DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Audio for immersive virtual surround, and integrates seamlessly with Fire TV devices for unified remote control.
Pros
- Fuller sound and clearer dialogue
- Immersive virtual surround with DTS Virtual:X
- Easy HDMI eARC/ARC setup
- Compact design fits most TV stands
- Bluetooth streaming and Fire TV ready
Cons
- Only 2.0 channels, no subwoofer
- No Dolby Atmos support
- Requires HDMI eARC/ARC for audio sync
TCL S45H 2.0 Sound Bar
The TCL S45H is a 2.0 soundbar that delivers Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X spatial audio from a slim design. Its AI Sonic auto room calibration tailors sound to your space, and with up to 100W of power, it fills small to medium rooms with clear, dynamic audio.
Pros
- Immersive Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X sound
- AI Sonic auto room calibration for balanced audio
- Sleek low-profile design fits under TV
- Easy setup with HDMI eARC/ARC, optical, Bluetooth
- Includes remote, cables, and wall-mount kit
Cons
- No built-in subwoofer for deep bass
- Limited to 2.0 channels
- May lack power for large rooms
Samsung HW B400F 2.0 Soundbar with Built-in
This 2.0 soundbar packs a built-in subwoofer for richer bass without an extra box, and it pairs seamlessly with your Samsung TV using just one remote. Voice Enhance and Night Mode make it a practical choice for everyday TV watching, especially if you want clearer dialogue and volume control at any hour.
Pros
- Built-in subwoofer provides rich bass without extra box
- One remote control works with Samsung TV
- Surround sound expansion creates wider soundstage
- Voice Enhance mode makes dialogue clearer
- Night mode reduces bass for late-night viewing
Cons
- 2.0 channel system limits surround immersion
RIOWOIS 17-Inch Sound Bar
The RIOWOIS 17-inch sound bar is a compact home theater solution that prioritizes clear dialogue with its DSP-enhanced audio modes. It fits easily under most TVs and offers hassle-free installation, plus a generous five-year warranty.
Pros
- Compact design fits in tight spaces
- Clear dialogue enhancement for TV shows and movies
- Three sound modes (movie, music, news)
- Easy wall-mount or tabletop setup
- Five-year warranty with free accessory replacements
Cons
- No Bluetooth or HDMI connectivity
- No separate subwoofer for deep bass
- Limited to 17-inch length for smaller rooms
Bose TV Speaker Compact Soundbar
This compact soundbar prioritizes TV dialogue clarity over booming bass, making it ideal for viewers who struggle to hear speech. At just over 2 inches tall, it fits discreetly in front of most TVs or on a wall, and connects via a single optical or HDMI cable for straightforward setup.
Pros
- Enhanced dialogue mode specifically designed to clarify vocals and speech, addressing a common TV audio complaint
- Extremely compact form factor (2.21 inches tall) fits easily under most TVs without obstructing the screen
- Multiple connectivity options: HDMI-ARC, optical, aux input, and Bluetooth for streaming music from up to 3 devices
- Includes remote control with dialogue boost and bass enhancement modes
- Expandable with Bose Bass Module 500 or 700 for added low-end depth if needed later
Cons
- Limited bass performance out of the box, requiring a separate subwoofer purchase for deeper sound
- Small soundbar means limited driver count (two full-range drivers) compared to larger multi-driver systems
- Wall mounting brackets sold separately, adding extra cost for installation beyond the included optical cable
Fansbe Direct Sound Bar 30W RMS
This compact sound bar delivers 30W RMS power with multiple connectivity options including HDMI ARC, Bluetooth 5.3, and USB. It offers three sound modes for movies, music, and news, making it a versatile upgrade for TVs, PCs, and projectors in small spaces.
Pros
- Multiple connection options (HDMI, Bluetooth, USB, AUX)
- Three dedicated sound modes for different content
- Slim design fits easily on table or wall
- Works as Bluetooth speaker and PC speaker
Cons
- Limited to 2.0 channel stereo without separate subwoofer
- No mention of built-in subwoofer for deep bass
Assistrust 31" Soundbar with Bluetooth 5.0
This 31-inch soundbar from Assistrust offers a versatile audio upgrade for TVs, PCs, and gaming. Its detachable design and multiple connectivity options make it a flexible choice for various setups, though the lack of user reviews makes it hard to gauge real-world performance.
Pros
- Flexible placement options
- Auto volume boost feature
- Multiple connectivity choices
- 3 equalizer modes for tailored sound
- Long warranty and support
Cons
- Limited information on sound quality
- Brand not widely known
ULTIMEA Poseidon M60 5.1CH Dolby Atmos Soundbar
This 5.1-channel soundbar system delivers immersive Dolby Atmos audio without the need for separate rear speakers by using side-firing drivers and DSP processing. VoiceMX technology keeps dialogue clear even during action scenes, and the 300W peak power with a wired wooden subwoofer provides room-filling sound. It is a good fit for those who want a simplified surround setup with advanced app control and HDMI eARC for lossless audio.
Pros
- Simplified 5.1 setup without rear speakers
- VoiceMX enhances dialogue clarity
- Powerful 300W output with dedicated subwoofer
- HDMI eARC for lossless Dolby Atmos
- Advanced app control with EQ and presets
Cons
- Virtual surround may not replace physical rear speakers
- Wired subwoofer limits placement flexibility
- Upper frequency response limited to 18 kHz
Saiyin 11.7-Inch Sound Bar Center-Channel Speaker
This compact sound bar packs 48W of peak power into an 11.7-inch frame, making it a practical audio upgrade for small TV setups. It offers balanced sound, multiple connection options, and a subwoofer output for deeper bass without taking up much shelf space.
Pros
- Compact footprint for small setups
- Clear, balanced audio for its size
- Multiple connections including subwoofer output
- Smart standby saves power
- Broad remote compatibility
Cons
- Not compatible with Roku Stick
- Requires PCM/stereo output to avoid noise
- Optical connection needs TV audio set to optical
Best Speaker for Smart TV Buying Guide
Sound Quality and Audio Format Support
Sound clarity is the most critical factor in any speaker upgrade. Look for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X compatibility, which creates a three-dimensional soundstage around the room. Many soundbars now include DTS Virtual:X to simulate surround without extra speakers.
For dialogue that cuts through the noise, seek out “voice enhance” modes or centre-channel simulation.
Driver configuration matters too: a 2.0 channel bar with two drivers can improve balance, but adding a separate subwoofer (2.1 or 3.1) adds low-end depth essential for movies and games. Models with active sound tuning adjust frequencies in real time.
Our evaluation dedicated premium format support and dynamic equalisation among the top picks.
Connectivity Options and TV Compatibility
HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) is the most streamlined connection. It sends audio from TV to soundbar and allows the remote to put complex multi-function controls in one place.
Earlier TVs with optical S/PDIF still deliver excellent 5.1 surround but cannot handle object-based atmos metadata. For extra flexibility, Bluetooth supports music streaming, while USB or AUX can link legacy gear.
For Mariat, consult our best soundbars and compatible TV guide. A robust router for streaming TV will also keep your system perfectly synchronised.
Size, Form Factor, and Room Fit
The soundbar need to both match TV width and seat beneath it without blocking the bottom bezel or infrared sensor. Opt for a low profile (under 2.5 inch) for models with tight lip.
For compact spaces, consider a smaller option like the Saiyin 11‑inch sound bar. Large living rooms can accommodate a system with separate subwoofer stands.
If you want a TV smaller than full-size, see our best 27 inch TV recommendation for small rooms and RVs, because matching size also improves cohesive experience.
Extra Features and Smart Controls
Features like auto‑volume leveling (night mode) prevent sudden loud scene; a dedicated night mode button keeps bass quiet. Some models support EQ presets (Movie, Music, Voice) to optimise sound for the content.
For true integration, models with voice assistant built‑in allow hands‑free control. Many also include app‑based customisation. To further extend your experience, consider best lights behind TV to add ambient immersion.
For more complex setups, see our home theater speakers section.
Price and Value According to Tiers
Prices range from under $28.99 to over $210.99 as of 2026. Entry‑level models ($28.99$210.99) are surprisingly capable for dialogue and basic effects.
Midrange models ($80‑$130) such as the Amazon Fire TV soundbar and TCL S45H include Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats independent of external hardware. Premium tier ($150‑$200+) offers richer sound, separated subwoofer, and better frame packaging.
The choice should reflect if you mainly watch news, sports, or action films. For dedicated music use, you might also read about best powered speaker for TV. For general viewing, our best soundbar TV guide offers wider cross‑comparison.
Why You Should Trust Us
BestProducts is an independent buying advisory service since its inception. We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback.
Each product in this list is rated on our proprietary 0‑10 BP Score that factors performance, audio quality, connectivity, user reviews across multiple dimensions, and overall value. All editorial opinions are our own, and affiliate relationships never bias our reviews.
Whether you’re looking for a small budget bar or an immersive surround set, our team updates the article regularly to reflect the shifting market. This version is accurate as of September 2026.
Final Thoughts
Our selection covers the nine best speaker for smart TV across every scenario. Here are our key picks with BP Score context.
Best Overall: Amazon Fire TV Soundbar, BP Score 9.9. Its blend of Dolby Audio, DTS Virtual:X, and helpful Bluetooth price makes it the top performer at a sensible price point.
Best Value: TCL S45H 2.0 Soundbar, BP Score 9.9. This bar packs Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and auto‑room calibration for under $80, an unbearable value.
Best Premium Compact: Bose TV Speaker, BP Score 9.8. Renowned voice clarity and build quality make it a top tier option for elegant and small rooms.
Best Budget Micro: Saiyin 11.6‑inch Sound Bar, BP Score 9.4. Very compact but still belts huge sound, suitable for bedrooms, guest rooms, or very small TVs.
Best Full-Surround System: ULTIMEA Poseidon M60, BP Score 9.5. With 5.1 channels and genuine Dolby Atmos, it offers true cinema surround for home theater devotees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a soundbar or a full speaker system?
A soundbar is the simplest upgrade: minimal wiring, quick setup, and broad compatibility with smart TVs. Traditional speaker systems with an AV receiver deliver more powerful, customisable surround but require room and knowledge.
For most people, a good soundbar with a subwoofer gives 90 percent of a 5.1 experience.
How do I connect a soundbar to my TV?
Look for an HDMI ARC or eARC port on your TV. Connect a standard HDMI cable from bar to TV, then set the TV audio to “ARC” or “External Speaker”. Older TVs may need optical cables; some support 5.1 that way.
For wireless, most bars also include Bluetooth for music. For any performance issues, check that WEO and setup mode are correct. For more, see best antenna for your TV if you also offload over‑air forrescue.
What is BP Score?
BP Score is BestProduct’s compositive 0‑10 scale that combines specifications, expert consensus, verified user feedback, and price‑value ratio. It provides a single, consistent number to compare products side‑by‑side across categories.
Can a cheap soundbar improve dialog over TV speakers?
Yes, even a $30 simple speaker can lift and separate dialogue from background noise. Models with “Voice Enhance” or dedicated dialogue modes work especially well. For upgrading a truly ancient smart TV, consider reading about best smart TV converter to reset video and audio connections.
What’s the difference between 2.0 and 5.1 soundbar setups?
2.0 is two channels (left and right) without a subwoofer. 5.1 adds centre speech, two rear speakers, and a sub. 5.1 provides cinema‑like surround; 2.0 is cleaner for news and music. If you are okay with limited complexity but want better, a 2.1 or 3.1 bar is a spot.
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BestProducts none of review content is based on personal product evaluations; we rely on expert consensus and published analyses.
About the author
Maxine is BestProducts's big screen writer, comparing TVs and projectors on brightness, contrast, motion handling, and room fit. She helps readers match a display to their space, their lighting, and their budget.