Soundbars are becoming more and more popular as a middle ground alternative between relatively low-powered PC speakers and full-blown surround sound systems. While most of their popularity is being enjoyed by TV viewers, gamers have just as much to gain from adding a soundbar to their setups. Soundbars can vary widely across manufacturers and even within the same model type, as some come with subwoofers, remotes, voice control, RGB lighting, or any combination of these features.
Presented with a plethora of choices, players may feel a bit overwhelmed. So, how do users know what makes a good soundbar? There are a few quick checks that can be made in order to determine whether a soundbar is going to work for a given setup, be it for PC or console players.
- Size – The overall size of a soundbar will determine whether it will fit better on a PC desk or on an entertainment center and can also be an indication of how well sound will expand through a space.
- Connectivity – Wireless soundbars are very popular, but depending on the type of TV a user has, wireless may not be the right way to go. Most soundbars have bluetooth connectivity, which helps PC players and many TV owners, but others will have to rely on an HDMI connection.
- Price – A soundbar is an excellent upgrade from normal speakers, especially those built into TVs. However, the price shouldn’t be more than the cost of an actual surround sound system, unless ease of installation is absolutely key to the user.
With these points taken into consideration, the best soundbars for gaming are ready and waiting to enhance players’ spaces in no time flat!
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VIZIO V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar
Best Overall Gaming Soundbar
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Redragon GS560 RGB Desktop Soundbar
Best Budget Gaming Soundbar
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Bose Smart Soundbar 900
Best Premium Gaming Soundbar
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Razer Leviathan V2 X
Best RGB Gaming Soundbar
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Sony HT-S400 2.1ch Soundbar
Best Gaming Soundbar for PC
VIZIO V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar
Best Overall Gaming Soundbar
The VIZIO V-Series is designed to deliver high-quality sound and is optimized for 4K HDR content with Dolby Audio 5.1. This soundbar provides loud and clear audio. Further improving the experience is DTS Virtual:X, which enhances any audio content by providing a virtualized 3D sound that fills the room from floor to ceiling.
Accompanying the soundbar are two satellite speakers and a 5-inch wireless subwoofer which can be easily placed anywhere in the room. The VIZIO V-Series also supports integration with voice assistants such as Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant.
- Connectivity
- Auxiliary, HDMI
- Audio Format
- Dolby Audio 5.1, DTS Virtual:X
- Power
- 50 Watts
- Subwoofer Output
- 50 Hz
- Dimensions
- 3.2″ x 36″ x 2.2″
- Includes six speakers across four devices
- Offers both HDMI and Bluetooth connections
- Enhances 4K HDR content with Dolby Audio
- Easy to install and control
- No app control
- Not ideal for compact desks
The VIZIO V-Series 5.1 soundbar is very nearly a full surround sound system in and of itself. With two speakers and a subwoofer accompanying the soundbar, users can have sound produced from anywhere in a room with ease. Setup is even simpler with an included HDMI connection and seamless bluetooth connectivity, with the set being controlled by the backlit remote.
The sleek black design of VIZIO’s home theater set looks great under TVs and on large PC desks, but it also performs extremely well. Dolby Audio and DTS Digital Surround support provide crystal clear sound and deep, resonating bass. Players who are looking to enhance 4K HDR content won’t be disappointed by the VIZIO V-Series 5.1 Home Theater Sound Bar. Plus, at just over $200, it’s one of the more affordable soundbars on the market.
Redragon GS560 RGB Desktop Soundbar
Best Budget Gaming Soundbar
The first Redragon RGB soundbar features an upgraded driver that delivers crystal clear sound combined with rich bass. Four different backlit modes offer both dynamic and static glowing LED illumination. Players can keep it underneath any device, as the 16-inch compact size suits almost any desktop setup. USB powered with 3.5mm audio and mic cables, this soundbar from Redragon is perfect for PC, TV, Laptop and Smartphone gaming spaces.
- Connectivity
- USB, 3.5mm
- Power
- 4W
- Dimensions
- 25.2″x25.2″x7.48″
- Extremely affordable
- Bright, vibrant, and customizable RGB lighting
- Easy to install
- Not as loud as other options
Redragon is quickly becoming well-known among budget gamers, and now their efforts have spread to offer players affordable soundbars. Their GS560 RGB desktop soundbar is perfect for users who want to add quality sound to their colorful gaming space. This compact soundbar is just 16 inches long, making it ideal for sitting right under PC monitors. There are four different lighting modes, but players can also have the soundbar’s backlighting sync to audio from other devices through USB or 3.5mm connections.
The soundbar is super easy to install, as users can simply plug in any device they like through the USB or 3.5mm ports. Controlling the soundbar is similarly a breeze, with a touch control at the top available to cycle through lighting options, while a large knob on the faceplate allows for adjustments to the volume. It’s not the most powerful soundbar, but it might be the most affordable and still manages to deliver rich sounds that should be loud enough for someone sitting a desk-length’s away.
Bose Smart Soundbar 900
Best Premium Gaming Soundbar
The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 is one of Bose’s high-end soundbars designed to improve TV audio. The soundbar comes with two custom-engineered dipole speakers that make it produce a sound that seems to come from all directions. It supports advanced audio technologies, like Dolby Atmos for delivering more true-to-life sound.
The sleek design has thoughtful material selections and a quality finish that looks good on the entertainment center. There are also modern smart features, like the inclusion of built-in voice assistants, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Audio Format
- Dolby Atmos, Dolby Audio
- Dimensions
- 41.14”x 2.29”x 4.21”
- Long size is perfect for TVs
- Sound quality is incredible
- Compatible with multiple smart home systems
For many people, just the name Bose evokes a sense of premium sound quality and memories of mall demos with huge price tags. The luxury sound company is showing no signs of slowing down though, and the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 is proof. This long, yet sleek device is ready to support smart homes and entertainment centers with its convenient wireless connectivity and built-in Alexa and Google voice control. Users can even rely on HDMI or wi-fi connections, if needed.
The smart soundbar is packed with custom-engineered, up-firing dipole speakers, which makes audio output sound like it’s coming from all directions. That sound is in turn supported by Bose PhaseGuide and Dolby Atmos: TrueSpace spatial processing technology. Even though it’s the most expensive soundbar on this list, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 is still well under $1000 and makes no compromises along the way. With premium features paired with top of the line audio tech, this attractive soundbar is an easy way to elevate both the decor and sound of any home theater.
Razer Leviathan V2 X
Best RGB Gaming Soundbar
The Razer Leviathan V2 X is a compact soundbar that is perfect for gamers living in small spaces. Relying on full-range drivers and two passive radiators, the Leviathan V2 X is an all-around audio solution for playing games, watching movies, and listening to music.
The Leviathan V2 X can connect to PCs and mobile devices through a USB-C connection or Bluetooth with a maximum volume level of 90 dBs. Fully integrating with Razer’s Chroma RGB ecosystem, the underglow lighting on the soundbar can sync with compatible games and react to gameplay events.
- Connection
- USB-C, Bluetooth
- Number Included
- 1
- Brand
- Razer
- Dimensions
- 15.8″x2.8″x 3″
- Easy to install and control with Razer Synapse
- Customizable RGB lighting can sync with games
- Very affordable
- Overall sound quality isn?t great
Many players like having matching peripherals and one of the best brands for coordination is Razer. Now, with the Leviathan V2 X, PC users can add incredible sound to their setup, complete with customizable RGB lighting and compatibility with the Razer Synapse app. Installation is as easy as it gets, with a USB-C cord offering plug and play setup, while bluetooth wireless stands ready to connect to PCs and mobile devices.
This compact soundbar features two full-range drivers and two passive radiators to even out sounds and cut down on distortion. The small size is deceiving too, with the Leviathan V2 able to eke out up to 90 decibels. The sound pairs with lighting across 18 zones to create a more immersive experience, with the soundbar able to sync with some titles for game-specific lighting effects. A serious upgrade from basic speakers, the vibrant Leviathan V2 X is the perfect companion to Razer-based gaming rigs. Plus, those who want even better sound quality can get an upgraded version of the V2 with a subwoofer; though it’s much bigger and more expensive than the standard.
Sony HT-S400 2.1ch Soundbar
Best Gaming Soundbar for PC
This Sony HT-S400 soundbar comes with a separate wireless subwoofer, which delivers convenience in placement without wires connecting to the soundbar and deep, rich bass sound. The 2.1 setup supports surround sound and clear dialogue. Thanks to the S-Force PRO Front Surround and Dolby Digital supports, the speakers are able to create a complex cinematic-style surround experience.The speaker system can output a total of 330 watts of powerful audio. Operation is simple and easy with a compact remote and using the OLED display window.
- Connectivity
- HDMI, Bluetooth
- Audio Format
- Dolby Digital, S-Force PRO
- Power
- 330W
- Dimensions
- 13.38″x38″x9.62″
- Large size is ideal for whole rooms
- Sound is well balanced between soundbar and subwoofer
- Setup is plug and play
Some players are lucky enough to have an entire room dedicated to gaming, giving them freedom to turn up the volume on their favorite titles. Headsets are probably the most immersive option, but for those who prefer being able to hear things happening outside of the game, the Sony HT-S400 soundbar might be the best solution. This long sound bar measures nearly three feet in length, and includes a sizable subwoofer to boot. However, this pays off as Sony’s 2.1 soundbar presents a total of 330W of power.
The audio sounds great, with rich, clear tones balancing with deep bass, while being supported by Dolby Atmos and S-Force Pro front surround sound technology. Quieter sounds, such as dialogue and footsteps, ring true through the soundbar, adding to games and movies alike. There aren’t too many extra features included, like voice control, but setup simply involves plugging the soundbar in or connecting a device through bluetooth. PC players looking for a quick, easy, and effective way to enhance their audio will have everything they need with the Sony HT-S400 2.1ch Soundbar.
LG Sound Bar and Wireless Subwoofer S90QY
Best Gaming Soundbar for Consoles
The LG Sound Bar and Wireless Subwoofer S90QY comes equipped with 570 watts for impressive home theater sound without a complicated setup. Users can have a surround sound experience with 5.1.3 channels connected to TVs and other devices through Bluetooth 5.0. This LG soundbar relies on IMAX Enhanced, Dolby Atmos, and DTS:X to bring multidimensional sound to any room. The soundbar is also controllable through voice or smartphone app. This set comes with a wireless subwoofer, remote control with batteries, wall mount brackets, and an HDMI cable.
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, Wi-fi
- Audio Format
- IMAX Enhanced, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
- Power
- 570W
- Subwoofer Output
- 40W
- Dimensions
- 47.2″x5.3″x2.5″
- Surround sound-like audio performance
- Compatible with many smart apps
- Easy to install
- Only one HDMI port for consoles
Console gamers often have to share their space, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t have incredible sound. The LG Sound Bar and Wireless Subwoofer S90QY is a high quality sound system designed for ease of use and to create a surround sound-like experience at a fraction of the cost. With a total power of 420W and three dynamic speakers in the soundbar rather than the more standard two, it’s almost worth asking why the subwoofer is even included.
Of course, the subwoofer is equally impressive, as the whole set is supported by a host of audio technologies. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X work to distribute the sound in a way that makes it feel like it’s all around the room. Meanwhile, IMAX Enhanced and adaptive up-mixing by Meridian Horizon give sounds new depths and make media more immersive than ever. Additionally, smart homes will enjoy the easy setup and compatibility with LG TVs, Alexa, Google, Apple, and other apps. Consoles can be connected just as easily with the HDMI pass-through port, making it a great option for gamers playing in shared living spaces.
How to Choose Good Gaming Soundbars
Not every soundbar is a worthy investment, but with so many options around, it can be tough to know what to look for. Choosing soundbars made by reputable brands and that have plenty of positive customer reviews is a great way to start, but there are some other key features that should be carefully considered before making a purchase.
Size
Soundbars range in size from very small, almost like a portable speaker, to fairly large, big enough to look aesthetically pleasing beneath a TV screen. However, the size of a soundbar isn’t just a convenience thing, it also indicates how broad the sound emanating from it will be. Large rooms need large soundbars, though small soundbars will serve PC desks and bedrooms just fine.
Connectivity
Typically soundbars can connect in three ways: over bluetooth or wi-fi and through a direct HDMI connection. Bluetooth is a great choice for most PCs and TVs, though not every TV supports this. Similarly, wireless connections over wi-fi aren’t always supported by TVs, and they also tend to have noticeable lag or interference with other wireless devices. HDMI is the most reliable connection, but can definitely put a damper on clean, minimalist setups. Not every soundbar offers all types of connections either, so users should be sure to double check the compatibility of the soundbar they’re looking to buy.
Price
Soundbars are a quick and easy way to upgrade basic speakers on a TV or next to a PC, often bridging the gap between low-quality sound and surround sound. They are far from a replacement for surround sound systems though, which on average cost about $700. That being said, there’s really no reason to spend $1000 or more on a soundbar, as the only benefit is the ease of installation. A surround sound system will almost always out-perform a soundbar, so users shouldn’t pay more than a few hundred dollars for one, unless the convenience of installation is the absolute, most important factor for a specific space.
FAQ
Q: What do soundbars do?
Soundbars are basically small speaker systems that sit below TV or PC screens to provide an immersive audio experience. Unlike a traditional surround sound system, which relies on multiple speakers and wires, sound bars are a simpler way to enhance the audio in a living room or gaming setup.
Q: Are soundbars good for gaming?
Gaming soundbars typically add to immersive audio with powerful bass and customizable sound profiles. Soundbars also tend to be much more compact and easier to set up than full on speaker systems, making them great for any gaming setup.
Q: Is a soundbar or speakers better for gaming?
Soundbars are usually better for gaming because they come with better bass, can be connected via USB, and are more compact than speakers.
Q: Are soundbars as good as surround sound?
Not really. While a soundbar can replicate a surround sound experience using virtual surround sound technology, the sound field created by a surround sound system is almost always going to be more immersive and precise, if more expensive.
Q: How do soundbars connect to TVs?
Soundbars connect to TVs using either bluetooth, wi-fi, or a direct HDMI connection.
Q: How long do soundbars last?
Soundbars can be expected to last between 7 and 10 years.
Q: What is the difference between a 2.1 and 5.1 soundbar?
A 2.1 soundbar uses two speakers on either end of the device. Meanwhile, 5.1 soundbars use five speakers, some of which may be separate units that should be placed around the room to try to create a more immersive sound experience.
Q: Do soundbars work for PC?
Yes, soundbars work for PCs.
Q: Does a soundbar work better with HDMI?
Yes, the direct connection to a TV or PC through HDMI is better for soundbar performance, however wireless connection look sleeker and have no issues most of the time.