Paweł Koper
When buying a new television, most of us focus on picture quality. However, what often disappoints after just a few days is… the sound. The built-in speakers of televisions – even those in the higher price range – rarely offer anything more than average quality. That’s why even a cheap soundbar can drastically change the experience of watching movies, series, or playing on a console.
In this roundup, we’ve gathered a few soundbars that we believe are worth considering – models at very affordable prices that won’t break the bank. 😉 While we haven’t yet tested them, based on specifications, user reviews, and common sense, we can confidently say: if you’re looking for a cheap yet solid sound upgrade for your TV – these suggestions are worth your attention.
We’re talking about the cheapest possible soundbars that, despite their low price, can sound much better than the speakers built into 90% of televisions.
Two Best Super Cheap Soundbars with Subwoofer
Hisense HS2100 – super cheap "sure thing" soundbar
Hisense HS2100 is the cheapest soundbar in this comparison that we can recommend without any doubt. It has excellent user reviews and very good ratings on independent websites – for example, on RTINGS.com, where it was declared the best super cheap soundbar.
The package includes a subwoofer and a total power of 240 W in a 2.1 system. We won’t be telling tales about virtual surround sound from a stereo setup – that’s not the point. The point is that this model can drastically change the sound experience from the TV, and that for a fraction of its price. It is an example of a soundbar that gets the job done without pretending to be anything more.
Philips TAB5309/10 – cheap "Dutch" soundbar
The Philips TAB5309/10 is a bit more expensive than the Hisense, but also worth noting. In terms of specifications, it is very similar, also 2.1 and with a subwoofer. In practice, their differences are cosmetic – so it would be best 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 thought-out placement of the low-frequency speaker – the subwoofer has its speaker facing downwards, making it easier to “blend” into furniture. This is not just a matter of design but also a practical way to limit unnecessary resonances. And speaking of appearance – we believe Philips looks the best among these cheapest 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 comparison without a subwoofer. This obviously has its consequences – the sound is shallower, less spatial, and lacks the low frequencies 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 is perfect for small rooms or where there simply isn't space for an additional box. It's not a choice for everyone – but if you are looking for a minimalist solution, without cables and unnecessary extras, then the SF150 could be a reasonable option. However, it's worth considering whether it might be better to choose a full-fledged 2.1 set and not regret the limited sound quality. Of course, it’s worth noting its price, which can sometimes be much lower depending on the store. We highlighted it here considering, of course, the lowest one 😉.
Soundbars for a little more – but still at a good price
The word cheap can mean something different for everyone – which is why, besides the absolutely cheapest soundbars we've described above, we want to suggest a few more models from a slightly higher price range. These aren't devices that cost a fortune, but they offer more than basic bars.
Samsung HW-B650 – more power and a dedicated center 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 compared to the cheapest soundbars. The soundbar itself features three channels, including a central channel that is responsible for dialogue reproduction. As a result, in movies and series – especially those with a voice-over – the voice becomes more audible and better 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 an interesting price anomaly – the Samsung HW-S700D (black) model and its white counterpart S701D are today available for about ⅓ of the price that had to be paid on the day of the premiere. This is a significant discount, which you can also check for yourself in our price comparison tool (below).
At this price, this soundbar stands out with several features that are hard to find among competitors:
very compact design (super slim),
availability in two color 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? 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, and playback isn’t interrupted by notifications. The smartphone acts as a remote, and the soundbar itself "downloads" music, for example, from Spotify or YouTube Music. It couldn’t be simpler or cleaner – and this is truly rare in this price range.
That’s why the HW-S700D / S701D model deserves special attention – in a compact, stylish enclosure, we get features that usually appear only in devices that are several tiers more expensive. So if you’re looking for something compact and modern – this soundbar is definitely worth keeping in mind!
Cheap "premium" – Denon and Sonos can also be bought without spending a fortune
If you thought that it was impossible to 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 absence of a bass box, offer something more than most basic soundbars from chain stores. Both fit into a category that could be tentatively called "cheap premium."
Sonos Ray – a small crazy one with a big personality
The Sonos Ray model comes in two colors – black and white – and can confidently be described as compact yet surprisingly competent. It does not offer deep bass, like the aforementioned soundbars such as the Samsung S700D, but it stands out with sound clarity and excellent cooperation 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, the housing may seem downright 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 sounds really good, and its character may appeal to fans of "classics."
Both models are proposals for those who do not want an additional subwoofer but still want the feeling of being around premium equipment – even if it doesn’t cost several thousand.
Which cheap soundbar is worth buying?
Regardless of whether you choose a model with a subwoofer, a compact bar without extras, or a soundbar with smart features – each of the described options will realistically improve the sound of your television. Above all, pay attention to current promotions, because – as we have shown – prices can differ by 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.
