If you are planning to buy the best soundbar for your small room/apartment, read this article till the end. We did comprehensive research to select the top 10 best soundbars that are ideal for a small room or apartment.
Soundbars are always preferable to ordinary speakers. Because they are more efficient, compact, budget-friendly, and elegant. A soundbar integrates multiple speakers to produce an exceptional sound quality.
There are different types of soundbars available in the market, depending on your need. Some are very compact and small while others are heavy with more features.
Many soundbars come with an external subwoofer while some brands integrate a subwoofer within a single unit soundbar.
Usually, soundbars are added with TVs to upgrade the audio effect. But, they can also be added to your computer, projector, or gaming consoles. Hence, it depends on you for what purpose you want to buy a soundbar.
What Type of Soundbar Do You Need for An Apartment?
You cannot use the same soundbar for a small and a larger apartment. Because the requirement for both places is different.
You need a slim and compact soundbar delivering well-balanced audio for your small room or apartment. An earthshaking soundbar will not only disturb you but also your neighbors.
So, it is recommended to choose a soundbar without an external subwoofer. Because the subwoofer adds extra bass that vibrates your apartment.
However, if you are buying a soundbar for your small room in a large home, you can go for a subwoofer also.
So, we will consider all the important elements to help you choose the perfect soundbar for your small room or apartment.
Guide To Choose Soundbars for A Small Room
There are many elements such as price, connectivity, size, audio quality, audio features, and placement you should consider while buying a soundbar for compact spaces.
Sound Quality
Your chosen soundbar should be capable of producing a room-filling sound. Each driver should give at least 20W power. A soundbar with upward-firing or multi-directional speakers delivers ideal sound quality.
The number of channels also affects the audio quality. A two-channel soundbar is the most basic one but is reasonable for an extra small room. While a 2.1 and 3 channel soundbar is ideal.
Another feature is Dolby Digital and DTS support, this technology takes the sound effect to the next level. A 5 channel soundbar gives an immersive sound experience but it is not preferable for a small room or apartment.
Subwoofer
Since you are buying a soundbar for a small room or apartment, it is better to choose one with an integrated subwoofer. It not only saves you cost but also space.
A soundbar with an external subwoofer is usually expensive. Moreover, it delivers extra thump and bass that can be disturbing for your neighbors.
A single-unit soundbar with an integrated subwoofer is ideal for small spaces. It produces a well-balanced and decent sound.
However, some soundbars alone cannot deliver exceptional audio. So, they include an external subwoofer at a reasonable price such as Polk Audio S2 soundbar.
Hence, you should consider such a soundbar for your small room or apartment.
Sound Modes and Voice Enhancement
Most of the soundbars come with a ‘voice enhancement’ or ‘dialogue clarity’ feature. They perform better within compact spaces by upgrading the sound.
So, they can turn your small room or apartment into a home theater. While choosing the best soundbar for you, look for this feature. EQ, bass, and treble adjustment are also good features.
Different sound modes such as movies, TV, gaming, music, news, and sports enable you to experience perfectly synchronized audio with the content.
So, you can use this soundbar for multi-purposes and with various media devices.
Size and Placement
A big-sized soundbar does not necessarily produce excellent sound. The main thing is powerful and multi-directional drivers. You should choose a slim and compact soundbar for a small room or apartment.
A soundbar measuring 24 to 36 inches is reasonable for your small room. It should also be light-weighted with a minimalist design so that you can place it easily under your TV.
Also, look for the wall-mounting option to save space. The size of the soundbar also depends on the size of your TV screen.
Connectivity and Control Options
Connectivity is the most important thing to consider while buying a soundbar for a small room or apartment. Almost all soundbars offer both wired and wireless connectivity options.
Wireless connectivity includes Bluetooth, Wifi, NFC, and voice assistants. Bluetooth is a must option as it allows you to connect your soundbar to any smart device.
While Wifi allows you to stream live content from various channels and services. Voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant are optional.
They allow you to control your soundbar by giving voice commands. While talking about physical connections, HDMI must be available on your soundbar.
Because it makes the most reliable connection delivering standard audio, 4K, HDR formats with no lag and distortion. Digital Optical input comes at the second number.
While control options include remote, physical, or touch control panels and mobile apps. Remote control comes with all the soundbars.
But, all are not supported by mobile apps. Most of the soundbars have an HDMI CEC feature that allows you to control both your TV and soundbar with a single remote. This is the most convenient option.
Cost of the Soundbar
The price of the soundbar depends on the feature. A soundbar equipped with the most advanced features costs you high.
Wifi and voice assistant support, multiple HDMIs, and additional drivers or subwoofers increase the cost of the soundbar.
Additionally, some soundbars are very stylish and beautiful but are not budget-friendly. You can choose an average-looking soundbar to cut the cost.
So, you should decide carefully which features you need in your soundbar. Do not pay for the extra features which are not helpful for you.
Reviewing Top Soundbars for A Small Room
After reading the buying guide, now you have basic knowledge about the best soundbars. This article is listing the top 10 best soundbars that are perfect for your small room or apartment.
They include all the essential features you need. Moreover, we have selected cost-effective but premium-quality soundbars. So, let us review each soundbar to help you buy the best one for you.
1. Polk Audio Signa S2 Soundbar
Audio Performance
Polk Audio Signa S2 is a worth buying soundbar. It has many features which make it the best sound solution for a small room or apartment.
Polk soundbar accompanies a powerful wireless subwoofer. The combo delivers an excellent sound quality in a small room or apartment.
For the price, the sound quality is far better than other soundbars. It’s a 2.1 channel soundbar giving you rich sound and deep bass. It front soundstage is also wider enough.
The subwoofer is wireless and connects automatically to the soundbar as soon as you turn it on. It has front-firing 5.25 inches drivers to enhance the audio performance.
The soundbar is equipped with right and left drivers. In addition, there are dedicated central tweeters. Together, they give a well-balanced sound and a 45 Hz to 20 kHz frequency range.
Moreover, this soundbar has V.A technology to ensure optimum dialogues. It delivers crystal clear audio at all levels. It provides you with an enhanced audio experience for movies, shows, and music.
This soundbar can give you a virtual surround sound experience. It has EQ features that can be adjusted according to your choice.
Furthermore, this wonderful soundbar can decode 5.1 Dolby Digital signals. You can direct any sound format to this soundbar and gives you the best output.
The mid and low ranges are matchless but the highest volume may not be ideal. This soundbar can give you a somewhat immersive sound effect in a small room or apartment.
It is ideal not only for TV but also for listening to music. In addition, it is also suitable for laptops, computers, and smartphones.
Because it features Bluetooth technology for seamless pairing. The audio flow is smooth and is also reasonable for gaming. Signa S2 has two basic sound modes; movie and music.
Design
This soundbar is elegant and stylish. It is made of good quality plastic and aluminum. While the body of the soundbar is covered by a durable fabric.
The soundbar measures approximately 35 inches. Its compact design and slim body is highly suitable for smaller spaces like a small room or apartment.
It can be placed under your TV for perfect synchronization. Its deep black color harmonizes ideally with other equipment in your apartment. Polk Audio Signa S2 offers you a hassle-free and quick setup.
In addition, the soundbar is also wall-mountable. It is not too heavy and carries a portable weight. The subwoofer is also slim and can fit in small spaces easily.
Like the soundbar, the front of the subwoofer is also protected by the mesh fabric. Overall, the Polk Audio Signa S2 soundbar looks great and adds aesthetic beauty to your room.
Connectivity and Control
Signa S2 features HDMI ARC and Digital Optical connection. HDMI ARC makes the most reliable connection and delivers true sound quality.
It supports Dolby Digital, Dolby Atmos, DTS, and other high-fidelity audio formats. Digital optical is the second-best choice to transmit sound perfectly.
It also features a 3.5mm mini-jack and AUX port. So, in terms of the connectivity options, this soundbar is versatile. This soundbar is tested for various multi-media devices.
It gives the perfect sound effect to each device due to its Bluetooth feature. So, you can stream media from Spotify, Pandora, and other apps.
This soundbar has the HDMI CEC feature. If you connect your TV and soundbar using an HDMI cable, both devices can be controlled through a single remote.
The top of the soundbar has a control panel that includes all the necessary control options such as volume adjustment, on/off button, Bluetooth, and input buttons.
This soundbar is equipped with four LED lights for indicating settings. In addition, it also comes with remote control. The remote allows all the control options including bass and treble adjustment.
It also has a night mode to reduce bass during the night so that your neighbors may not get disturbed.
PROS
- Comes with a wireless subwoofer
- A slim and stylish design ideal for compact rooms
- 2.1 channel sound system with five full-range drivers
- Enhanced sound effects, deep bass, and wide soundstage
- Cost-affordable and best audio performance
- Supports DTS and Dolby Digital Decoding
- Multiple connectivity options and compatibility with various devices
CONS
- Lacks the display screen but features LED indicators
- Auto shut-off function after a few minutes of inactivity
- Don’t expect a true surround sound effect
Related: Best Soundbars With Wireless Rear Speakers
2. Roku 4K/HDR Streambar
Audio Performance
If you are looking for a slim, smart, and cheap soundbar for your small room or apartment, Roku Streambar is really an out-class choice for you.
This soundbar is loaded with amazing specs and you will love it. It is not only very compact but also an excellent audio solution. Roku is not only a soundbar but also a streambar.
It has a built-in streaming device that gives you access to 150 plus channels. Whether you attach it with your TV or stream directly on it.
In terms of price, this soundbar is a steal-deal. This smart stream bar is equipped with 4 powerful 1.9 inches drivers that give you a room-filling bass.
The two drivers are forward-firing while the other two are placed right and left. The soundstage and clarity are wonderful. It is a 4K media streaming hub supporting HDR10 formats.
Further, it does not disappoint you on high frequencies and produces smooth sound without any distortion. The low and mids are good.
This soundbar is capable of producing a cinematic sound effect in your small room or apartment. While watching movies, you will be impressed by the crystal clear dialogues.
In addition, playing music on this streambar is also an amazing experience. Overall, it is a multipurpose soundbar and is a perfect choice for compact spaces.
Design
This soundbar measures only 14 inches and weighs just 2.4 pounds. Hence, it fits perfectly in small spaces and is also highly portable. But, its small size does not compromise the audio quality.
It can be placed under your TV. The back of the soundbar has 2 mounting holes. So, you can also mount it on the wall. The design is expandable.
You can add external subwoofer and satellite speakers to the Roku stream bar. The device looks decent and beautiful.
Connectivity and Control
The Roku Streambar does not have control buttons but has one LED light on the front panel. However, a nice remote comes with this soundbar. It has all the control buttons with a decent organization.
The remote also has a voice search button. In addition, it has included dedicated buttons for popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and Sling TV.
So, this modern soundbar offers you great opportunities for streaming media. It is also compatible with Youtube, Google Play Movies, Apple TV, Apple AirPlay 2, and Homekit. Thus, you can also connect it with your Android or iOS device.
While it offers versatile connectivity options. Most of the smart and cheap soundbars lack an HDMI port. But, the Roku soundbar not only comes with an HDMI port but also an Optical Audio input.
Moreover, it has a USB port. HDMI is the most desirable connection for upgrading TV sound. The power connection port and reset buttons are also located on the back panel.
The most amazing thing about this streambar is that it works with Alexa, supports Wifi and Bluetooth. So, you can watch any movie, listen to any song through this device.
PROS
- An ideal compact and smart soundbar
- All-in-one streaming audio solution
- Amazing dialogue clarity and audio performance
- Equipped with 4 drivers
- Works with voice assistants
- HDMI, Optical, and USB ports
- Wifi and Bluetooth compatibility
- 4K and HDR10 streamer
- Direct media streaming through various streaming services
CONS
- Does not support Dolby Vision
- The bass is not much impressive but reasonable for the size
3. Sonos Beam Soundbar
Audio Performance
Sonos is a name of trust in the acoustic industry. Sonos Beam is one of the most popular soundbars. It is an ideal sound solution for compact spaces like small rooms or apartments.
In fact, Sonos Beam is an all-in-one compact soundbar. This compact soundbar gives an incredibly deep bass and rich sound effect.
Because, it is a 3.1 channel soundbar and has integrated four full-range drivers, a dedicated center tweeter, and 3 passive radiators.
Although Sonos Beam does not come with an external subwoofer yet it gives impressive sound quality. The audio performance is no less than the expensive soundbars.
The lows and mids are well-balanced and vivid. High ends are also great with negligible distortion. Moreover, the soundstage is pretty wide and ideal for movies and music.
As compared to TV speakers, Sonos Beam provides you outclass listening experience. Thanks to its speech enhancement feature, dialogue clarity, and audio flow are really impressive.
It also features a Night Mode to avoid disturbance. An HDMI connection ensures smooth audio transmission without any lag.
Design
This soundbar is quite slim and smart to fit ideally in your home. Moreover, it gives a very decent and elegant look. This soundbar is versatile in terms of placement.
It sits perfectly under your TV or you can also mount it on the wall. With a 25.6 inches body, Sonos Beam does not block your view when placed in front of the TV.
The design is expandable and you can form a 5.1 channel surround system. Despite such a compact size, Sonos Beam is packed with all the modern features.
The most amazing thing is that it is available in both white and black colors. The white model is really pretty and adds aesthetic beauty to your room. This soundbar is protected by a fabric mesh and it’s not too heavy.
The purchase includes all the essential accessories like a power cord, HDMI and Ethernet cable, Optical adapter, and quick start guide.
Connectivity and Control
The top panel of the Sonos Beam soundbar is equipped with touch controls. All the basic controls options like play/pause, volume adjustment, next/previous, and mute are available on it.
Further, it also has an LED light to indicate status and voice feedback. Some physical buttons are present on the rear panel of the soundbar. It includes pairing and a power button.
The connectivity ports are also located on the back. In addition to HDMI, there is an Ethernet port. So, you can connect this soundbar to Wifi. This feature allows streaming from various apps and services.
An amazing feature of this soundbar is TruePlay. This software functions to synchronize the audio according to the room settings.
It detects the dimensions of your room or apartment and sitting arrangement to customize the audio. So, it can turn your small room into a home theater.
But, this feature is compatible only with iPhones not with Android devices. However, this soundbar is capable of producing a wonderful sound even without this feature.
The great news about this soundbar is that it supports voice assistants. Sonos Beam works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, and Apple Airplay 2.
So, you can control and stream media on this soundbar by giving voice commands. Additionally, it also comes with remote control and is supported by the Sonos app.
Hence, you have a lot of control options with this smart and advanced soundbar. Further, this soundbar is equipped with multi-room technology.
You can connect it to other Sonos products in your home. If all soundbars are sharing the same Wifi connection, you can send voice commands to either one.
PROS
- A 3.1 channel sound system
- Excellent audio performance with slim design
- Various control options including popular voice assistants, touch panel, remote and Sonos app
- Wifi supported and features TruePlay
- Flexible design, ideal for small rooms and apartments
- Decent and elegant soundbar available in two colors
- Quick and easy setup
CONS
- Does not support surround sound technology; DTS, Dolby Atmos
- Lacks Bluetooth functionality
- Patience is required to set up with TVs lacking HDMI ARC
Related: Best SoundBars with Multiple HDMI Inputs
4. Yamaha YAS-108 Soundbar
Audio Performance
You should choose Yamaha YAS-108 for a number of reasons. First of all, it is a slim and smart soundbar that is ideal for your small room or apartment.
Moreover, it has integrated all the features in its compact body. Its sound performance is matchless even without a subwoofer. Above all, the price is quite reasonable as compared to its counterparts.
There are many other features of this soundbar that you should know. It supports 4K HDR and DTS Virtual: X audio formats. This Yamaha soundbar comes with built-in subwoofers.
The dual 3-inch subwoofers, 2 pairs of dome tweeters, and woofers together create a bombastic sound. The bass is really good even without an external subwoofer.
The audio quality is good enough for a small room or apartment. This wonderful soundbar can decode DTS and Dolby Atmos, most other soundbars lack this feature.
Further, it has two sound modes; clear voice and DTS Virtual: X. So, the dialogue clarity provides you with an excellent listening experience.
The soundstage is really impressive and can fill your entire room or apartment. You can enjoy 3D, surround, and stereo sound effects. These features are ideal for movies and music.
Design
Yamaha 108 has an expandable design and you can add a subwoofer to it. The soundbar measures 35 inches and is compatible with larger TVs also.
It sits under your TV and can be mounted on the wall. It has keyholes to easily mount on the wall. The slim design of the soundbar does not block your view because it is only 2 inches high.
This soundbar comes in black color that harmonizes well with other devices in your room. The body of the soundbar is protected by a fabric mesh. Overall, the design is simple but decent.
Furthermore, it also has an automatic position detection system that adjusts the sound accordingly. So, you can place it either vertically or horizontally. The setup is simple and quick.
Connectivity and Control
This soundbar is equipped with HDMI that makes the most reliable connection. In addition, it features dual Bluetooth connectivity that allows you to connect with two devices simultaneously.
So, you can connect it to other devices in both ways; wireless and wired. It is not only suitable for TV but also compatible with multi-media devices like smartphones, projectors, computers, etc.
This soundbar is simple and does not have an on-screen display. However, there are LED lights to indicate the volume levels and input selection. While touch controls are also present on the soundbar.
They include volume, power, mute, and source selection. Additionally, the remote control also comes with this soundbar. It has more advanced control options and a reasonable design.
Yamaha YAS-108 also works well with Alexa. Hence, you can also control this soundbar by giving voice commands. These multiple control options make it a modern and handy soundbar.
The good thing about this soundbar is that it has HMDI in and out. HDMI ARC and CEC are also available. HDMI CEC enables you to control both your TV and soundbar with a single remote.
Optical and analog input options are added advantages. So, this compact soundbar has a whole lot of connectivity options.
PROS
- A compact and slim audio solution
- Offers multiple connectivity options
- Dual Bluetooth connectivity
- Supports 4K HDR, Dolby, DTS: X audio
- Touch control panel, remote and Alexa compatibility
- Built-in subwoofer
- Clear-Voice feature for enhanced listening effect
- Expandable design
CONS
- Lacks a separate subwoofer
- A little expensive than its counterparts
- Bass is not ideal
5. TCL Alto 5+ 2.1 Channel Soundbar
Audio Performance
If you are a bass lover, TCL Alto 5+ is a perfect soundbar for you. This soundbar comes with a smart subwoofer to give you extra rich bass.
This sound package does not take much space and can fit easily in your small room or apartment. While TCL Alto 5 comes without a subwoofer.
Since you want a soundbar for a small room, it is a good choice. But, without a subwoofer, you have to compromise on bass. So, we suggest you buying TCL Alto 5+.
Moreover, Alto 5+ has a very reasonable price and does not compromise on quality. Its sound performance is tested and verified.
TCL Alto 5+ is a 2.1 channel soundbar. It is equipped with 2 full-range drivers that are located at the left and right ends of the soundbar.
It is designed to give a stereo sound effect that upgrades your TV’s sound. The great thing about this audio package is that it delivers smooth and flawless audio.
The subwoofer ensures deep bass without any distortion at maximum volume. The sound is powerful enough to fill your small room and apartment.
Because its frequency response is excellent, ranging between 70 Hz to 20 kHz. The audio is well-balanced and is also ideal for listening to music.
The dialogue enhancement feature provides you with a great movie experience. Indeed, this compact soundbar can turn your small room into a home cinema.
It offers 3 dedicated sound modes including music, movies, and news. So, you can hear even the quieter conversations. While dialogue mode can be used as the standard audio mode.
In addition, it also offers EQ adjustments which allow you to set frequencies according to your choice.
Design
TCL Alto 5+ is a minimalist audio solution. The design is simple but elegant. Both the soundbar and subwoofer come in deep black color giving a stylish and decent look.
It uses durable materials in its manufacturing. The high gloss finish of the soundbar looks beautiful. The body of the soundbar is covered by a mesh and there is a silver TCL logo on the front.
The soundbar measures 31.5 inches and is ideal for a TV of any size. If you place it under the TV, the compact body of Alto 5+ does not block your view.
Similarly, the subwoofer is also very slim. The soundbar is wall-mountable.
Connectivity and Control
Alto 5+ can be connected both wired and wirelessly. All the ports are located on the back of the soundbars. So, if you choose to connect through wires, it will give you a neat look.
The wires can be run along the wall to the TV. Wired connections include Optical, Aux, and IR pass-through. Moreover, it also has a USB port.
An optical connection is recommended for TV. This soundbar also comes with Bluetooth technology for seamless pairing. It allows you to stream from your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
The TCL Alto 5+ gives you multiple control options. It comes with a decent remote as well as works with the TV remote.
Additionally, the soundbar itself has a control panel containing all the basic control options. The buttons on the control panel are labeled, hence convenient and simple to use.
The setup process is made easy and simple. The sub connects automatically as you power on the soundbar.
The purchase includes all the necessary equipment like power cable, wall mounting kit, quick start guide, IR pass-through, and optical cable.
PROS
- A 2.1 channel soundbar with a wireless subwoofer
- Deep bass and flawless audio
- 2 full-range drivers and stereo sound quality
- Smart, slims, and minimalist design for small rooms
- EQ adjustments and three sound modes
- Built-in Bluetooth connectivity
- Gloss finish with an elegant look
- Multiple control options, compatible with the TV remote
- Highly reasonable price
CONS
- Lacks Wi-Fi and HDMI
- Does not support Dolby Digital and Dolby Atmos
Related: Best SoundBars Over $1000
6. Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar
Audio Performance
Bose Solo 5 is the number 1 soundbar for small rooms or apartments. The sound quality of Bose products is matchless. Bose Solo 5 highly satisfies you in terms of audio performance.
If you want to enhance your TV’s sound, Solo 5 is the best audio solution. Its frequency range is pretty high-61Hz to 19 kHz.
In addition, its dynamic range boosts the sound and gives an impressive audio experience with large TVs in a small room. It produces crystal clear audio even at higher volumes.
The harmonic distortion is minimum. Furthermore, Solo 5 offers various sound modes including movies, shows, news, gaming, music, and more.
Dialogue mode delivers high-quality audio from TV shows and movies. Bose Solo 5 is a 2.0 channel soundbar. Although it does not produce surround sound yet its audio performance is excellent for a small room or apartment.
The most amazing thing about this soundbar is that it is budget-friendly. At a reasonable price, the Solo 5 gives you the best sound quality.
Design
If you are a minimalist, Bose Solo 5 is an ideal choice for your small room or apartment. This soundbar has a sleek and compact design.
Its simple design makes it the best choice for a small room or apartment. The soundbar measures only 21 inches and can fit perfectly in a small space.
Moreover, this device is very light weighted and easily portable. Enclosed in a plastic cover and protected by a metal grill, this soundbar is durable enough.
It is a perfect match for smart TVs. You can place it under your TV or mount it on the wall using a wall mounting kit. So, this soundbar offers flexible placement options.
Connectivity and Control
The Bose Solo 5 comes with a universal remote control which allows convenient control. This remote control can control the soundbar as well as TV.
So, you do need a separate remote for each device. You can also adjust bass using the remote control. The bar itself lacks control buttons and display.
But, the rear panel of this soundbar has input ports. This soundbar has analog and optical audio inputs. The manufacturer has not included HDMI and USB ports.
However, you can use coaxial and optical cables for connecting this soundbar to your TV or any other media source. The wireless connectivity options include Bluetooth.
It makes a reliable connection and delivers flawless sound. You can connect this soundbar not only to your TV but also to other Bluetooth devices such as smartphones, tablets, or computers.
It allows you to stream music from multiple apps and streaming services. Additionally, the Bluetooth feature reduces the cables and wires.
Hence, you can ideally choose this soundbar for your small room or apartment. Setting up this soundbar is very easy and quick.
The packaging box includes the Solo 5 soundbar, universal remote control, batteries, power cable, power brick, optical, digital audio cable, and the user manual.
PROS
- Flexible and compact design
- A slim soundbar, ideal for small rooms or apartments
- Excellent sound performance
- Bluetooth connectivity for multi-media devices
- Minimalist and sleek design
- Various sound modes and adjustable bass
- A universal remote control is included in the purchase
- Highly-affordable cost
CONS
- The soundbar lacks display and voice assistants
- Does not have HDMI and USB ports
- The Wall-mounting kit needs to be purchased separately
7. Bose Smart Soundbar 300
Audio Performance
Bose 300 is a smart soundbar with all the features. Its compact size and best performance make it a perfect choice for your small room or apartment.
The most notable feature of this soundbar is that it gives outclass sound performance and does not require much space. This amazing soundbar is equipped with 4 full-range drivers.
So, it produces crystal clear sound with a wide soundstage. Despite its small size, Bose 300 soundbar ensures a deep bass. The sound effect is great along with all audio levels.
Dialogue clarity is excellent and music listening is also ideal. This soundbar is not only recommended for your small room but also for a small apartment or living room.
This soundbar takes the audio of your TV to the next level. Only at 50% volume, it can give you a cinematic sound effect. The highs are even clear and distortion-free.
It is suitable for 50 inches or larger TVs. It is also tested for listening to music. You hear every beat and symphony quite clearly.
In fact, Bose 300 soundbar is a multi-purpose device. You can connect it to your TV or can also use it as a standalone sound solution. In short, Bose 300 is a premium soundbar for your small home theater.
Design
Bose smart 300 soundbar measures 27.5 inches in length and 2.25 inches in height. You can place it easily under your TV without blocking the view.
It weighs around 7 pounds and can also be mounted on the wall. Bose 300 soundbar is very stylish and adds aesthetic beauty to your home.
It comes in deep black color and gives a decent sleek look. The front is covered by a nice metal grille. The back of the soundbar contains all the connectivity ports.
While the top panel has two touch buttons for mic and mode. If you love minimalist design, Bose 300 is highly recommended for you. It does not come with an external subwoofer.
However, the design is expandable, you can add satellite speakers as well as the bass modules. So, Bose 300 can be a part of your home theater system.
Connectivity and Control
The versatile connectivity options excel Bose 300 soundbar from its counterparts. It offers a whole lot of wired and wireless connectivity options.
It comes with HDMI ARC that makes the most reliable connection with your TV. Another reliable connectivity option is Optical, bass module connection is also included.
Bose 300 soundbar supports Bluetooth and Wifi. It is also compatible with Apple AirPlay 2, TuneIn, Pandora, and Spotify connect.
Wifi allows you to stream from various options. While Bluetooth can be used to pair with all modern devices. You can enjoy your favorite music, movies, and shows on this soundbar.
Another wonderful feature of this soundbar is its compatibility with voice assistants like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. So, you can have full command over the soundbar and TV without a remote.
However, a very simple and straightforward remote also comes with this soundbar. Moreover, it is also supported by the Bose Music app.
This smartphone app allows easy control, setup, and software update. In addition to sound modes, bass and treble are also adjustable. Its exclusive Voice4Video technology expands the Alexa capabilities.
PROS
- Impressive sound and bass even without a subwoofer
- Equipped with 4 full-range drivers
- High profile audio and premium dialogue clarity
- Sleek, elegant, and compact design
- Wifi and Bluetooth connectivity
- Compatible with all the advanced streaming services like Pandora, Spotify, etc.
- Supports Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Bose Music app
- HDMI and optical connections
CONS
- Mid-range is not very impressive
- A costlier soundbar without a subwoofer
- Setup is tricky and a guide is not included
Related: Top Soundbars For PS5
8. Sony S200F 2.1ch Soundbar
Audio Performance
Sony HT-S200F is another best choice for your small room or apartment. This 2.1 channel soundbar comes with an integrated subwoofer.
Although the bass is not outstanding like the soundbars with powerful external subwoofer yet it is reasonable for a compact room.
The great thing is that this Sony soundbar delivers neutral and well-balanced audio. At maximum volume, the audio flow is great and you feel no distortion.
The volume loudness is ideal for watching movies or TV shows. Because it ensures enhanced dialogue clarity. It is equipped with an S-Force surround sound feature.
Additionally, the voice enhancement feature gives you a great listening experience. It ensures dialogue clarity and you can listen to the whispers even.
Sony S200F supports Dolby Digital and can produce surround sound. The best thing about this soundbar is its affordable price.
Moreover, it also has an HDMI connection, while most of the cheap soundbars lack HDMI.
Design
Sony S200F is a compact soundbar in the real sense of the word. It measures only 25 inches and is convenient to place under your TV.
With a 2.4 inches height, it is unlikely to block your view when placed under your TV. The back of the soundbar has holes for wall mounting.
A small size room or apartment cannot accommodate larger TVs. So, the Sony soundbar is a good match for an average-sized TV. It is also wall-mountable.
The soundbar is protected by a metal grille and made of good-quality plastic. It comes in black color and does not have a high-gloss finish. But, the design is minimalist and decent.
Connectivity and Control
This soundbar has HDMI ARC and HDMI out. These connections are not available on most soundbars under the same price range.
In addition, it also has an Optical In and USB port. HDMI is the number one choice for a reliable connection with your TV and Optical is also a good option.
It also supports HDMI CEC which allows you to operate the soundbar and TV with a single remote.
Bluetooth feature is also available for seamless pairing. Hence, this soundbar can be paired with all Bluetooth devices.
Touch-sensitive controls are located on the soundbar itself. You can access basic control options with full ease. While it also has LED lights that indicate the input source.
A remote also accompanies the soundbar. The remote control has some more control buttons. It is better than other cheap remotes and easy to use.
The soundbar comes with 4 preset sound modes; standard, auto, music, and cinema. So, you can enjoy the best listening effect with each type of content. There is a dedicated bass button on the remote to adjust the bass.
The packaging box comes with the Sony S200F soundbar, HDMI, Digital Optical, and power cable, power brick, remote, batteries, wall mounting pads, and manual.
PROS
- A 2.1 channel soundbar with integrated subwoofer
- Compact and smart, perfect for small rooms or apartments
- Enhanced dialogue clarity is ideal for TV
- Distortion-free sound at maximum volume
- Different sound modes and bass adjustment
- HDMI ARC, HDMI CEC, and Digital Optical input
- Bluetooth connectivity for seamless pairing
- Touch controls and a decent remote
- Affordable price with quality features
CONS
- Does not support DTS and Dolby Atmos
- Narrow soundstage, bass needs improvement
- No app or Wifi compatibility
9. VIZIO M21D-H8R Soundbar
Audio Performance
Vizio M21D-H8R is the best budget soundbar for a small room or apartment. Its minimalist and simplistic design fits perfectly in compact spaces.
This 2.1 channel soundbar has a dual built-in 3-inch subwoofer and gives you a reasonable bass. In addition, tweeters and woofers are also powerful enough to enhance the TV sound.
The most amazing thing about this Vizio soundbar is that it supports DTS Virtual: X and 4K HDR sound format. So, it creates a multi-dimensional soundstage and gives you a dynamic audio effect.
Further, it also supports Dolby 5.1 content. These features are absent in most cheap soundbars. But, at a reasonable price, the Vizio M21D-H8R soundbar delivers the best audio quality.
Its frequency range is quite reasonable- from 50 Hz to 20 kHz. The audio clarity is also excellent due to its 98 dB impedance.
In addition to TV, this soundbar is also suitable for music and gaming. Because it gives 3D immersive sound effects.
Design
Vizio H8R has a unique, plain, and beautiful design. It measures 36 inches in length and sits well under your TV. Moreover, you can also mount it on the wall to save space.
This soundbar is not only a good match for smaller TVs but also for 50 inches or larger TVs. Its weight is 8.5 pounds that are a little heavy.
But, overall, the device is slim and compact for small rooms or apartments. It has a charcoal finish and decently blends with other devices in your house.
The device is made up of durable plastic and covered by a tight fabric. Overall, it gives a neat look and is easy to clean.
Connectivity and Control
Most cheap soundbars do not have an HDMI connection. But, Vizio H8R is equipped with an HDMI and delivers high-quality content.
HDMI is advantageous in many ways as it offers easy and simple connectivity. So, this Vizio soundbar is a plug-and-play audio solution.
It also has dedicated Aux input and all the cables are included in the box. A nice remote also comes with this Vizio soundbar. Unlike other remotes, it has fairly big and easy-to-press buttons.
The soundbar itself also has basic control buttons located on its right side. Additionally, it also has wireless connectivity options.
Bluetooth feature enables this soundbar to be paired with any smart device. Hence, it can be paired with your smartphone, tablet, laptop, and other media devices.
Voice Assistance is another amazing feature of this soundbar. You can not only give voice commands to this soundbar but also can control other home devices.
It adds convenience and comfort to your lifestyle. The bass, treble, and EQ are adjustable.
Vizio soundbar is really worth the price as compared to its counterparts. It is equipped with all the modern features delivering high-class audio.
The purchase box includes all the essential accessories; Optical and HDMI cable, 3.5mm audio, stereo RCA, and power cables, user manual, remote, 2x wall-hang parts, and mounting manual.
PROS
- Decent and nice look with a compact design
- Separate woofers and tweeters and dual built-in subwoofers
- Supports 4K HDR, DTS Virtual: X, and Dolby 5.1 audio
- Good bass and clear audio
- HDMI and Bluetooth connectivity
- Compatible with voice assistant
- Highly affordable price
- Suitable for larger TVs and small rooms
CONS
- High volumes are not ideal
- Does not support Wifi and Atmos
- Bass needs improvement
Related: SoundBars for Open Floor Plans
10. JBL 2.0 – All-in-One Soundbar
Audio Performance
JBL is a trusted brand in the acoustic industry. Their speakers and soundbars are very popular.
So, if you want a smart soundbar for your small room or apartment, choose JBL 2.0 an all-in-one soundbar. This soundbar features the best quality at a very reasonable price.
This 2 channel soundbar also supports Dolby Digital. It is one of the best soundbars to upgrade your TV sound. This soundbar gives a 70 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response.
The JBL 2.0 soundbar has integrated racetrack drivers that deliver good-quality sound irrespective of the size of the soundbar.
It has standard sound mode and Smart Audio mode. The Smart mode gives surround sound effects while watching movies and TV shows.
The soundbar does not have any external or internal subwoofer. However, the audio performance is reasonable for a small room or apartment.
The dialogue clarity is also great and distinguishes dialogues from background voices. Additionally, the soundstage is also amazing and does not disappoint you.
The unit gives a total of 80W power. It is also suitable for listening to music. Overall, JBL 2.0 is a low-cost good choice for your small room.
Design
The design is minimalist and stylish. This soundbar comes in dark grey color and harmonizes perfectly in your home. The body of the device is made up of plastic and covered by a perforated grille on the front.
The setup is very easy. Indeed JBL 2.0 is a plug-and-play soundbar. This soundbar measures 24.17 in length and 2.28 in height.
This slim design is ideal to place under your TV-40 inches or smaller. It is also suitable for gaming and you can place it beside your computer.
The weight of the soundbar is only 3.50 pounds that makes it easy to handle. You can also mount it on the wall using the accompanied wall-mounting brackets.
The most desirable thing about this soundbar is its minimalist and easy-to-handle design. So, it is a space-saving solution with all the specs.
Connectivity and Control
This budget-friendly soundbar is equipped with an HDMI connection-a most desirable and reliable connection. Moreover, it also features USB, Optical, and Bluetooth ports.
The US model is equipped with a USB for playing music files directly on the soundbar. Bluetooth option makes it convenient to pair with smart devices like smartphones, tablets, or computers.
This simple soundbar does not feature Wifi, so you cannot stream live music. HDMI CEC feature is also included in the soundbar.
This allows you to control both your TV and soundbar with a single remote. The top panel has four basic control buttons. While there are LED lights to indicate different situations.
The back of the soundbar contains all the connectivity ports. In addition to onboard physical buttons, it also comes with a remote. The remote is very simple with 5 decent buttons.
The purchase includes the remote control along with the wall-mount bracket.
PROS
- Minimalist and easy to set up design
- Good sound quality with affordable cost
- Reasonable soundstage for a small room or apartment
- Good frequency response and supports Dolby Digital
- Smart Audio mode for dialogue clarity
- Very light-weighted and compact soundbar
- HDMI ARC out, HDMI CEC, and Optical ports
- Features Bluetooth connectivity
CONS
- Only one HDMI (ARC) port
- No dedicated subwoofer so lacks bass
- Lacks Wifi compatibility and mobile app support
Final Words
Soundbars are crucial to enjoying movies, TV shows, and music with realistic sound effects. You can turn your small room or apartment into a home theater by adding a soundbar to it.
All the soundbars we reviewed in this article are capable of turning your room into a home cinema. In terms of sound performance, they are a premium choice.
We have considered all the essential features while selecting the best soundbars for a small room or apartment. So, you can select any of them depending on your requirement.
