Paweł Koper
When buying a new TV, most of us focus on picture quality. But what often disappoints after just a few days is… the sound. The built-in speakers of TVs – even those in the higher price range – rarely offer anything more than average quality. That’s why even a cheap soundbar can dramatically change the experience of watching movies, series, or playing on a console.
In this comparison, we’ve gathered a few soundbars that we think are worth considering – models at a very affordable price that won’t break the bank. 😉 While we haven't tested them yet, based on specifications, user reviews, and common sense, we can confidently say: if you’re looking for a cheap but solid sound upgrade for your TV – these options are worth a look.
We’re talking about the cheapest possible soundbars that, despite their low price, can perform much better than the built-in speakers in 90% of TVs.
Two best super cheap soundbars with subwoofers
Hisense HS2100 – super cheap "trusty" soundbar
Hisense HS2100 is the cheapest soundbar in this comparison that we can recommend without any doubts. It has excellent user reviews and very good ratings on independent websites – for example, on RTINGS.com, where it was hailed as the best super cheap soundbar.
In the package, we find a subwoofer and a total power of 240 W in a 2.1 setup. We won’t be telling tales about virtual surround sound from a stereo system – that’s not the point. The point is that this model can radically change the sound experience from the TV, and that too for a fraction of its price. It’s an example of a soundbar that does the job without pretending to be anything more.
Philips TAB5309/10 – affordable "Dutch" soundbar
Philips TAB5309/10 is a bit more expensive than Hisense, but still worth considering. It's very similar in specs, also 2.1 with a subwoofer. In practice, their differences are cosmetic – so it would be best to… just listen to both. Sound is a bit like shoes – it's best to "try them on".
What sets it apart? First and foremost, a more thoughtful placement of the subwoofer – the subwoofer has a downward-firing speaker, making it easier to "blend" it into furniture. This is not just a design issue, but also a practical way to limit unnecessary resonances. And speaking of appearance – we believe Philips looks the best among these cheaper options. So if aesthetics matter to you as well – it's worth considering.
Cheapest recommended soundbar without a subwoofer
Sony HT-SF150 – for minimalists without a subwoofer
Sony HT-SF150 is the oldest and one of the few soundbars in this lineup without a subwoofer. This of course has its consequences – the sound is shallower, less spatial, and devoid of the low frequencies that are heard (and felt) in 2.1 models.
On the other hand, the Sony SF150 is a compact bar with a power of 120 W, which is perfect for small rooms or where there simply isn't room for an additional box. It’s not the choice for everyone – but if you’re looking for a minimalist solution without cables and unnecessary extras, then the SF150 could be a sensible option. Although… it’s worth considering whether it would be better to choose a full-fledged 2.1 setup and not regret the limited sound quality. Of course, it’s worth noting its price, which depending on the store can sometimes be much lower. We’ve highlighted it here, looking at that lowest price 😉.
Soundbars for a little more – but still at a good price
The word cheap can mean something different to everyone – that's why, in addition to the absolutely cheapest soundbars we described above, we want to suggest a few more models from a slightly higher price range. These are not devices that cost a fortune, but they offer more than basic bars.
Samsung HW-B650 – more power and a dedicated centre channel
Samsung HW-B650D is a proposal from a slightly higher price range, but still within a reasonable budget. It stands out primarily due to its higher power – 370 W, which is almost double and sometimes triple that of the cheapest soundbars. The soundbar itself features three channels, including a central channel that is responsible for reproducing dialogues. This makes voices in films and series – especially those with narration – clearer and more separated from the rest of the sounds.
Samsung HW-S700D / S701D – "pricing error"? A stylish soundbar three times cheaper than at launch!
While browsing the offers, we came across a fascinating price anomaly – the Samsung HW-S700D (black) and its white counterpart S701D are now available for about ⅓ of the price that had to be paid at launch. That's a significant discount, which you can check for yourself in our price comparison tool (below).
At this price, this soundbar stands out with several features that are hard to find in the competition:
very compact design (super slim),
availability in two colour options – black (S700D) and white (S701D),
network features thanks to the WI-FI module – full support for AirPlay, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, SmartThings, and Q-Symphony.
But what’s actually going on with this Wi-Fi? First of all: it’s not just another feature on the list. Unlike Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi connection allows for sending audio directly from the internet, bypassing the phone as a source. This way, we don’t lose quality, we don’t have issues with range or playback interruptions due to notifications. The smartphone acts like a remote, and the soundbar ‘pulls’ music directly from sources like Spotify or YouTube Music. It doesn’t get simpler or cleaner – and in this price range, it’s truly a rarity.
This is precisely why the HW-S700D / S701D model deserves special attention – in a compact, stylish casing, we get features that usually only appear in equipment that costs a few tiers more. So if you’re looking for something compact and modern – this soundbar is definitely worth considering!
Cheap "premium" – Denon and Sonos can also be bought without spending a fortune
If you thought that you couldn't find a soundbar at an affordable price from strictly "audio" brands, you might have been mistaken. There are two interesting models available on the market without a subwoofer, which despite the lack of a bass box offer something more than most basic bars from chain stores. Both fall into a category that can be tentatively called "cheap premium".
Sonos Ray – a little dynamo with a big personality
The Sonos Ray model comes in two colours – black and white – and can confidently be described as compact yet surprisingly competent. It doesn't offer deep bass like, for instance, the previously mentioned soundbars such as the Samsung S700D, but it holds its own with clear sound and excellent integration with the rest of the Sonos ecosystem. Those who have used devices from this brand know that their integration, ease of use, and stability are no coincidence.
Denon DHT-S217 – "classic"
On the other hand, the Denon DHT-S217 is a completely different design – no Wi-Fi, no bells and whistles, and the casing can be seen by some as rather clunky. But it's precisely in this simplicity that the strength lies. Denon focuses on sound, clarity, and functionality without unnecessary extras. This soundbar sounds really good, and its character may appeal to fans of "classics".
Both models are proposals for those who don't want an additional subwoofer, but at the same time want to feel like they are using premium-class equipment – even if it doesn't cost several thousand.
What cheap soundbar is worth buying?
Regardless of whether you choose a model with a subwoofer, a compact soundbar without extras, or a soundbar with smart features – each of the options described will significantly improve the sound on your television. Above all, pay attention to current promotions, as – as we have shown – prices can vary even two or three times depending on the store.
Whichever of these models you choose, you will probably be very satisfied – especially compared to what the built-in speakers of ANY television offer.
