Best Soundbar Under $200 Reviews

Transforming your home entertainment experience doesn’t have to compromise your savings. Today, we’re going to find out if the best soundbar under 200 that combines audio quality with affordability exists.

Based on my many years of experience, I can confidently say that even budget models can offer various options that promise to elevate your movie nights, gaming sessions, and music enjoyment. Say goodbye to lackluster TV speakers as I’ve prepared for you the best soundbars under 200 for various tastes and purposes.

Soundbars under $200 comparison table

Best soundbar under $200 reviews

VIZIO V51x-J6 – best overall

If you're looking for a nice middle-of-the-road soundbar that would give you a good listening experience but is not a big investment, then this VIZIO V51x-J6 review is for you. The device features 6 full-range speakers and a wireless subwoofer, providing immersive sound for movies, music, and games. So what else can such a unit offer, and can the surround sound be so affordable? I have the answers for you.

Build and design

The whole set is super minimalistic, and there's everything you need. The VIZIO soundbar has a classic design similar to many others on the market. The wireless subwoofer is not too big, and it's not very noticeable on the floor. It is of medium size and blends in well. The only thing I didn't like about it is that the power cord plugs into the front of the subwoofer look not very nice. The wired speakers are light but well-designed. The only thing that was a bit disappointing was how the back of the speaker mounting brackets were designed. It doesn't allow the speakers to sit flush against the wall and project sound in an omnidirectional way. The remote is good overall, and a great feature is a small display to help guide you through menus. Is it convenient? Undoubtedly!

Setup and connectivity

Once I set up the surround speakers, connected them to the subwoofer, and plugged the power in, everything connected without any issues. So, the setup process is straightforward. For a streamlined TV interface, there's an HDMI ARC port, which enables single simplified wiring between a compatible display. Unfortunately, additional HDMI inputs are not available. Beyond HDMI, conventional digital optical input is included. There's also an analog 3.5mm auxiliary jack that offers legacy device support as well. So, comprehensive digital entertainment gear is all covered. However, not everything is perfect with HDMI in this model. Many users note that the HDMI interface does not work with some TV models. But having checked its work on TVs of 2 different brands I did not find such a problem. However, the ARC connection failed a couple of times when I turned off the TV. When I turned it back on, there was no sound, and I had to reboot the soundbar. In this case, the solution might be to connect the soundbar with an optical cable. You won't find a Wi-Fi option here, but integrated Bluetooth (4.1 version) connectivity allows cable-free music streaming from services like Spotify on your smartphone or tablet - excellent for casual background enjoyment. No delay in audio with the Bluetooth wasn't noticed.

Features and specs

The sound enhancement technology presented in V51x-J6 is DTS TruVolume and DTS Virtual:X. In addition, Dolby Audio finishes the full spectrum of surround sound. Speaking of modes - dedicated audio profiles like Movies, Music, and Dialogue maximize the preservation and articulation of content-specific dynamic ranges and frequency responses. Letting you adjust the listening experience perfectly to what's playing. Far better than one-size-fits-all presets. I would like to emphasize the improvement of dialog quality when watching movies. V51x-J6 did an excellent job of clarifying dialogs with the help of a special enhancement function. For this, it gets an extra point from me. As for the virtual assistant feature (i.e., Google Assistant, Alexa), it only works if you have a device connected that has the assistant built-in (i.e., Google Nest speaker/hub, Alexa Echo, etc.). So, the assistant-enabled feature for this model feels misleading to me in this way.

Listening experience

I'd say this is quite a good surround sound for a small room that you can get with V51x-J6. The music EQ setting sounds good. It doesn't increase the treble like many EQ presets do on other equalizers. The bass is punchy and not overpowering despite its size. Sometimes, I noticed the deep bass in voices to the subwoofer, but any type of musical or cinematic style bass sounds didn't sound localized, which is great. Supporting DTS:X definitely helps remove the "localization" of the speakers. To be honest, I think when DTS:X is enabled, it only uses it on the soundbar and subwoofer while watching 5.1 content and not the satellite speakers. Of course, there should be a clear understanding that V51x-J6 offers just virtualized surround sound and a flat soundstage as a result. Still, the difference in audio quality with this equipment is extremely improved.

Samsung HW-C450 – also great

Samsung's HW-C450 soundbar from 2022 refers to the B-series collection, which focuses on affordability and good enough sound (that is sure to be better than your TV). It's exactly what those looking for richer sound without serious expense for limited living spaces need. My Samsung HW-C450 review will help you understand this device's fundamental characteristics and thus decide whether it is suitable for you. I have thoroughly tested its basic features, sound, and design. This is where we will start the review.

Build and design

The Samsung HW-C450 is a slimmed 2.1-channel soundbar solution focused on approachable simplicity for plug-and-play TV audio amplification. Measuring a compact 33 inches wide and just 2.3 inches tall, the sleek enclosure blends beneath flat panel displays with no background distractions. Furthermore, this wireless subwoofer also offers flexible placement because you get wall mount brackets with the device. Convenient? Undoubtedly! The thing I definitely dislike is the remote control. As for me, it seems to be of poor quality. In order to set the volume with the remote, you have to push with care since the buttons feel flimsy and almost are about to break if you use them too often.

Setup and connectivity

Even though the unit is not packed with the latest modern features, I found the owner's manual terrible for most people (since I assume such a model would be preferred by those unfamiliar with technologies). So it tells you how to setup the soundbar, but there's no info on all of the available modes. Luckily, you can find a more useful owner's manual on Samsung's website. I connected it by optical cable, which is obviously not the most efficient connection. However, this is the only connectivity option HW-C450 offers, except for USB. Also note that when using the cabled connection, volume must be controlled exclusively from the soundbar's remote as the TV has no control over the audio when in this mode. Wi-Fi is also not included, so there are no streaming services as well. Yet, the Bluetooth option is onboard, supporting only the SBC codec. The subwoofer paired with Bluetooth with no issues. However, I heard some noise as soon as I stopped playing.

Features and specs

As you may notice, the Samsung soundbar focuses on core essentials over flashy bonus features - but still incorporates some special touches, enhancing the experience of various content. Dedicated sound modes optimize audio response for movies, music, and voice-centric content like news and podcasts - boosting clarity for soundtrack dynamics, studio recordings, and vocal reproduction. So there are Bass Boost, Surround Sound Expansion, Game, Adaptive Lite, and the most desired on the list - DTS Virtual:X. In addition, you get Voice Enhance and Night Mode features, which are probably the most usable. Moreover, HW-C450 is an ENERGY STAR-certified soundbar, so it consumes considerably less electricity to operate compared to non-certified models. This leads to lower energy bills.

Listening experience

The sound is quite good. I listened to some concerts on YouTube, and the soundbar showed up really well. I played with some customizable settings via the remote, and the sound was also great. If you want the optimal sound out of this unit, you'll definitely need to adjust the treble and bass. Both tone control and sound mode needed adjusting. After adjusting the sound quality, the highs, mids, and lows blended nicely. Even though the sound is pleasing, it's pretty much centered. If the size of the room is going to be moderate, then it's okay. However, if you're going to use it in a larger room, I'd suggest adding the rear speakers for the fuller sound, especially if you want to enjoy more advanced surround sound. The subwoofer is powerful for this budget model; during the action parts of a show, I felt the slightest rumble like I was at the theater. Overall, I was quite satisfied with the sound. Yes, the impressions are not superb, but they are good enough for a model of this class.

Bose TV Speaker – small soundbar

In this Bose TV soundbar review, I will tell you about this relatively simple plug-in speaker. In addition to good sound quality, this device is easy to set up and integrate into your home theater system.

This model was introduced in 2020. It may lack more advanced features you will find in Bose's premium offerings, but what it has is more than enough for upgrading your TV's audio to a decent 2-channel stereo. So, take a few minutes to see if this soundbar would be a good choice for you or whether you need to look for another option.

Build and design

If you are a fan of minimalistic design concepts, you will love the Bose TV speaker. Thanks to a smooth top surface and perforated metal grille, it has a classy vibe. In addition, the casing is made of matte-black plastic, which gives the speaker a restrained yet quite sophisticated look.

As for the size, this soundbar is remarkably small. It measures 2.2 x 23.4 x 4 inches and weighs 4.3 lbs, so it easily fits between the legs of a 55-inch TV to save space. The device has an optimal height, so it won't obscure your TV.

Setup and connectivity

Setting up this soundbar won't be a hassle at all. First, you hook the speaker to the TV via the optical cable or your own HDMI. Then, you plug the speaker into the power outlet, and that's all. After that, the device is ready to use.

As for the availability of ports, you will find HDMI ARC, optical, and AUX inputs. There is a USB port, but it is used for service only. If you want to experience more bass, there is a wired bass module.

You can use one of these ports without the need to manually pick the corresponding input in the settings. However, the good news is that you can employ more than one port to connect different audio devices. The system will detect the first active one and set it as a default input.

If you want to do away with cords, you are free to use Bluetooth. Or you can utilize it as an additional device for other Bose speakers using the Bose Music app.

This soundbar seamlessly works with Roku TV over HDMI. The setup is fairly simple. It's also great that the speaker is compatible with the Roku TV remote.

Features and specs

The Bose television soundbar is a fairly simple device that handles basic tasks well and will not overload you with advanced functionality that you may not need. Nevertheless, this is what makes this speaker easy to use and keeps its price.

With the 36W peak power and 50/60Hz frequency response, you will obtain a rich sound when watching a movie, listening to music, or playing a video game. If you want to get more bass, just hit the Bass button on the remote.

The Dialogue feature is really handy. As you turn it on, the speaker will analyze your watching content. Then, it will elevate vocals to let you hear more clearly and deliver enhanced speech and pronunciation. This capability is especially helpful for podcasts or TV shows.

Unfortunately, there is no Bose app to control the TV speaker. All the configurations are made with the remote. It isn't backlit, but the volume and mute buttons are easy to identify, even in the dark. With the remote, you can activate the Bluetooth mode for pairing the soundbar with other devices, adjust the amount of bass, or switch to a Dialogue mode.

Listening experience

Considering the size of the Bose TV Speaker, you do not expect much from it. But I was really surprised by what it delivers. At its full sound breadth, it can fill up an average living room with a rich sound. However, it may not be enough for a larger or open space. Yet some thumping and compression artifacts are present at the highest volume, especially in the bass range.

The stereo soundstage performance is just fine. It doesn't sound much focused, so movie sound effects are perceived as coming from diffused areas rather than a specific, accurate location.

As for the music, the speaker has a decent frequency response. It is balanced, especially in the mids. The bass is extremely rich, so the default settings are enough for an average listening experience. If you want more, you go to the Bass mode and get a touch of the extra boom. Though, it is better to add a separate sub if you listen to bass-heavy genres for advanced bass reproduction.

Razer Leviathan V2 – for gaming

Are you in search of a detailed Razer Leviathan V2 review? Honestly, I've wanted to test this model for a while, and I'm ready to share my impressions of this soundbar with you. Razer's Leviathan V2 soundbar, an updated version of their original Leviathan soundbar from 2014, features an updated design with RGB backlighting to enhance its visual appeal. The new design of the Leviathan V2 has made it slightly slimmer and a pound lighter than its previous iteration. Some physical buttons and ports, including the 3.5mm jack and optical audio input, have been removed in this updated version. Furthermore, unlike its predecessor, this soundbar supports THX spatial audio, a virtual surround sound technology featured in Razer's Kraken V3 headsets. Now, let's dive into the details and explore this model further.

Build and design

The Razer Leviathan V2 has a sleeker design compared to its predecessor, featuring a compact cube-shaped subwoofer. The soundbar measures 19.7 x 3.6 x 3.30 inches, while the subwoofer is 8.67 x 8.67 x 9.5 inches. Both units are lightweight, with the soundbar weighing around three pounds and the subwoofer approximately 6.5 pounds. The downward-facing RGB lighting now supports Chroma RGB for customizable colors. The controls are conveniently located on the top panel, offering easy access to functions like input selection and volume adjustment. Optional foot attachments are provided to raise the soundbar slightly. The paint quality on the front grill and the plastic material's tendency to attract fingerprints are minor drawbacks. During my personal experience with the Leviathan V2 soundbar, I observed an incident that highlighted potential concerns regarding the paint quality of the front grill. While closely examining the soundbar, I accidentally applied slight pressure, resulting in a small chip of paint flaking off and exposing the silver metal beneath. The issue is not critical, but please be careful.

Setup and connectivity

The Razer Leviathan V2 soundbar offers versatile connectivity options. It can be easily connected to your PC via USB Audio Input for a direct and high-quality audio experience. Additionally, it provides seamless wireless connectivity via Bluetooth, allowing you to pair it with your mobile phones and even the Nintendo Switch. During my personal testing endeavors, I found the connectivity of the Leviathan V2 to be hassle-free. It effortlessly connected to my PC and other devices, and the Bluetooth pairing process was quick and reliable.

Features and specs

Razer's Synapse 3 software is a powerful companion to the Leviathan V2 soundbar, allowing users to unlock its full potential and customize their audio experience. With the software, you can access a wide range of features and settings to fine-tune the soundbar according to your preferences. One of the key benefits of Synapse 3 is the ability to control and adjust the soundbar's presets, including THX, Gaming, Music, and Movies. Using the intuitive interface, you can easily switch between these presets or create your own custom profile. Gaming enthusiasts will appreciate the dedicated Gaming preset, optimizing the sound to create an immersive gaming environment. Music fans, on the other hand, can enjoy the Music preset's emphasis on rich tonal clarity and deep bass, delivering a dynamic audio performance. Meanwhile, the Movies preset provides a cinematic bass experience that brings favorite films to life. The software also provides a 10-band EQ, giving you precise control over the audio frequencies to achieve the desired sound signature.

Listening experience

And as the cherry on top, let me unveil my firsthand impressions of the Leviathan V2 soundbar's sound quality. I had a fantastic opportunity to thoroughly test this soundbar in various scenarios, and I have valuable insights to offer. In games, the soundbar enhanced the environment with impactful explosions and clear footsteps. I particularly enjoyed playing the popular shooter game "Call of Duty: Warzone" with the Leviathan V2. The explosions were incredibly immersive, making me feel like I was right in the middle of intense firefights. The sound of footsteps was crisp and distinct, allowing me to locate enemies with precision. When listening to music, the Leviathan V2 reproduced a wide range of frequencies with clarity and depth. I enjoyed various genres, from energetic electronic beats like "Wake Me Up" by Avicii to soulful ballads like "Someone Like You" by Adele. The sound quality was exceptional, with rich bass and crystal-clear vocals that brought the songs to life. The customizable EQ settings allowed me to personalize the sound to suit different genres and styles. I could fine-tune the audio to emphasize the bass in electronic tracks or enhance the clarity in acoustic melodies. The Bluetooth connectivity was seamless, allowing me to effortlessly switch between devices and enjoy uninterrupted music streaming. Overall, I was satisfied with the sound quality of the Leviathan V2 soundbar. The immersive gaming experience and the ability to customize the sound to my preferences were standout features. Whether for gaming or music, the Leviathan V2 offered impressive performance, making it an excellent choice for audio enthusiasts and gamers alike.

Polk Audio Signa S3

Have you ever wondered what you can get from the 2.1 soundbars? Then, make it to the end of my Polk Audio Signa S3 review to check the features of this device and learn whether it provides the necessary capabilities to meet your needs.

It is not the newest product from the lineup. S4 is now available on the market, yet S3 remains a preferred choice for people on a budget seeking a punchier movie-watching experience. So let's see what makes it a worthy option.

Build and design

As you look at Polk Audio Signa S3, you will immediately notice that it was inspired by the previous models. Its design is similar to S1 and S2; only S3 looks sleeker and nicer. Its wool-like grille is thick but still prone to tearing or ripping. In these terms, metal grilles are more reliable. The casing is made of plastic, which doesn't feel cheap. Internally, two front-firing midrange drivers and two front-firing tweeters are hidden under the soundbar body.

The bar measures 2.15 x 35.43 x 3.22 inches, so it will hardly fit between the TV legs. Therefore, it is rather designed to sit in front of your TV without blocking the screen. The sub is moderately-sized - 13.4 x 6.72 x 12.2 inches. Its front part also features mesh covering, while the housing is made of wood.

Basic controls on the top of the bar allow you to select the source, pair devices via Bluetooth, regulate the volume, and power the soundbar on/off. Instead of the screen, you will find a few lights that change depending on the operating mode.

Setup and connectivity

Polk Signa S3 is pretty basic in terms of connectivity. There is a single HDMI port with ARC. You will also find an analog 3.5mm Mini-Jack (AUX) and optical audio inputs.

Wireless connectivity options are also available. You may use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. I was pleased that Polk Signa S3 supports Chromecast. This way, you can stream content directly from your favorite services like Spotify, Amazon Music HD, YouTube Music, Google Play Music, Tidal, Pandora, and more.

This model has no auto-tuning functions. Thus, you will have to play with the settings for a while to get the desired sound effects. There is a Voice Adjust technology that regulates the dialog level, but, in my opinion, it does little to help you set up the entire soundstage and audio reproduction.

Features and specs

First of all, I would like to point out that S3 lacks Dolby Atmos decoding, which is a privilege of higher-end soundbars. But you can still get decent sound quality with Movie and Music. There's also a Night mode where you can dim loud effects so as not to disturb your loved ones or neighbors. But there's a not-so-nice thing about the modes. I find switching between them somewhat confusing. As there is only a single LED indicator that runs pink for all the modes, there is no way for you to know what mode is on unless you switch it.

Signa S3 soundbar works with Google Assistant to let you use your voice to control music. You can ask the assistant to play, pause, or adjust the volume. Using the Google Home app, you can pair this bar with other Chromecast-enabled speakers to transmit audio signals across your home. And this is really useful and convenient!

Listening experience

It is a basic soundbar setup that doesn't support Dolby Atmos or DTS:X audio reproduction. Therefore, do not expect to be surrounded by sound from all dimensions. So, the sound of the helicopter flying overhead will be perceived from the front rather than above. This may make your watching experience less engaging. In movies or TV shows, you hear dialog clearly. You can also use the Voice Adjust function to enhance the details of the dialogs.

When reproducing music, there is no consistency in how this bar sounds. In one track, it is too boomy. In another - it is bright. The bass is okay but not powerful enough for a good rumble. I do not recommend using Polk Audio Signa S3 in the loudest volume settings. Otherwise, you will notice compression artifacts that interfere with your listening experience.

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