Paweł Koper
When buying a new television, most of us focus on picture quality. But what often disappoints after just a few days is… the sound. Built-in speakers in televisions – 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 films, series or playing on a console.
In this selection, we have gathered a few soundbars that we believe are worth considering – models at a very affordable price, not giving your wallet a headache. 😉 Admittedly, we have not tested them yet, but based on the specifications, user reviews, and common sense, we can confidently say: if you are looking for a cheap yet solid sound upgrade for your TV – these proposals are worth your attention.
We are talking about the cheapest possible soundbars, which despite their low price can perform much better than the speakers built into 90% of televisions.
Two Best Super Cheap Soundbars with Subwoofer
Hisense HS2100 – super cheap "sure bet" 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 portals – for instance, on RTINGS.com, where it was hailed as the best super-cheap soundbar.
The package includes a subwoofer and a total power of 240 W in a 2.1 configuration. We won't be telling any tales about virtual surround sound from a stereo setup – that's not the point. The point is that this model can dramatically change the audio experience from the television, and that at a fraction of its price. It is an example of a soundbar that does the job without pretending to be anything more.
Philips TAB5309/10 – inexpensive "Dutch" soundbar
The Philips TAB5309/10 is slightly more expensive than the Hisense, but it is also worth considering. In terms of specifications, it is very similar, also 2.1 and with a subwoofer. In practice, their differences are cosmetic – therefore the best option would be… to simply 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 low-frequency speaker – the subwoofer has a down-firing speaker, making it easier to “blend” it into the furniture. This is not just a matter of design but also a practical way to limit unnecessary resonances. And speaking of appearance – in our opinion, Philips looks the best among these cheapest options. So if aesthetics are important to you as well – it is 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 comparison without a subwoofer. This, of course, has its consequences – the sound is shallower, less spatial, and lacks the low tones that can be 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 will work perfectly in small rooms or where there simply isn't space for an additional box. It is not a choice for everyone – but if you are looking for a minimalist solution, without cables and unnecessary additions, then the SF150 may be a sensible option. Though… it is worth considering whether it wouldn't be better to choose a full-fledged 2.1 set and not regret the limited sound quality. Of course, it is worth paying attention to its price, which can sometimes be much lower depending on the shop. We have highlighted it here looking, of course, at that lowest one 😉.
Soundbars for a little more – but still at a good price
The word cheap can mean something different to everyone – which is why, in addition to the absolutely cheapest soundbars we've 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 central channel
Samsung HW-B650D is a proposal from a slightly higher price range, but still within reasonable budget limits. It stands out primarily due to its higher power – 370 W, which is almost double and sometimes three times more than the cheapest soundbars. The soundbar itself features three channels, including a central channel responsible for the reproduction of dialogues. As a result, in films and series – especially those with voice-over – the voice becomes more audible and more separated from the other sounds.
Samsung HW-S700D / S701D – "pricing error"? A stylish soundbar three times cheaper than at launch!
While browsing through the offers, we came across an interesting pricing anomaly – the model Samsung HW-S700D (black) and its white counterpart S701D are currently available for about ⅓ of the price that had to be paid at the time of the launch. This is quite a discount, which you can also verify 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 of two colour versions – black (S700D) and white (S701D),
network functions thanks to the WI-FI module – full support for AirPlay, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, SmartThings, and Q-Symphony.
But what is this Wi-Fi all about? Firstly, it’s not just another feature on the list. Unlike Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi connection allows for direct streaming of sound from the internet, bypassing the phone as a source. This means we don't lose quality, we have no issues with range, and playback is not interrupted by notifications. The smartphone acts as a remote control, while the soundbar itself "pulls" music, for example, from Spotify or YouTube Music. It couldn't be simpler or cleaner – and in this price range, it's truly a rarity.
That’s why the HW-S700D / S701D model deserves special attention – in a small, stylish casing, we get features that usually only appear in equipment several tiers more expensive. 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 it is impossible to find a soundbar from strictly "audio" brands at an affordable price, 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 "budget premium".
Sonos Ray – a small crazy one with a big character
The Sonos Ray model is available in two colours – black and white – and can confidently be described as compact yet surprisingly capable. It does not offer deep bass, like the previously mentioned soundbar, the Samsung S700D, but it defends itself with sound clarity and excellent cooperation with the rest of the Sonos ecosystem. Anyone who has used devices from this brand knows 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 construction – no Wi-Fi, no frills, and a case that may seem rather clunky to some. But it is precisely in this simplicity that the strength lies. Denon focuses on sound, clarity, and functionality without unnecessary extras. This soundbar performs really well, and its character may appeal to fans of "the classics".
Both models are proposals for those who do not want an additional subwoofer while still wanting the feeling of interacting with premium-class equipment – even if it does not cost several thousand.
Which 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 realistically 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 likely be very satisfied – especially compared to what the built-in speakers of ANY television offer.
