Overview
If you’ve heard the hubbub about improving your television’s audio but you’re not ready to shell out the big bucks, fear not - Ultimea budget soundbars to the rescue. A cheap soundbar might not let you experience theater-quality Dolby surround sound, but you will undoubtedly hear crisper dialogue, more detailed music, and a balanced relationship between script and score with the help of these specifically designed speakers. A compact, wallet-friendly soundbar is a great way to start experimenting with at-home audio. We’re here to help you pick one of the best soundbars under $100 suited to your needs and your living space.
Tapio I - 16" 2.0-Channel Sounbar $62.00
Built for small spaces like your desktop, Tapio I mini Soundbar is designed to fit into your existing setup with minimal clutter. Create your own mini entertainment center with a truly compact and cost-effective soundbar. View more.
Specs
- Dimensions: 17.52 x 5.2 x 4.72 inches
- Channels: 2.0
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, AUX, USB, Optical
Tapio V - 31" 2.1-Channel Soundbar with Subwoofer $69.99
Tapio V is a 2.1 channel detachable soundbar with external subwoofer for better performance, the ideal and cost-effective solution for improving the somewhat poor sound of TVs or creating a better surround sound for PC and consoles. Vide more.
Specs
- Dimensions: 31.73 x 2.48 x 2.36 inches
- Channels: 2.1
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, AUX, USB, Optical, TF card
Odine IV - 30" 2.0-Channel Soundbar $64.99
Our compact and affordable entry-level soundbar. The Odine IV is everything you need to upgrade from your TV sound system. Delivering balanced audio from four large front firing speakers produces a loud and clear listening experience. View more.
Specs
- Dimensions: 30.46 x 3.07 x 2.38 inches
- Channels: 2.0
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, HDMI ARC, AUX, USB, Optical
FAQs
Q: Can I use a soundbar without a TV?
Yes, technically, you can use a soundbar without a TV, depending on the connectivity options. Models equipped with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi can connect to smartphones, laptops, etc., to stream music and podcasts wirelessly. You can also use AUX or USB ports to connect additional devices directly. However, soundbars are first and foremost designed with the intention of supporting film and television audio. So if you find yourself wanting to play music primarily, consider turning your attention to bookshelf or Bluetooth speakers instead.
Q: What does a subwoofer do with a soundbar?
Adding a subwoofer to a soundbar system supports low-end frequencies that the main unit may not be able to bolster. A sub helps produce that heart-pounding bass and anxiety-inducing rumble found in sound design and scores alike. Some can live without it, but we recommend the upgrade; they can be a real game-changer when it comes to an entertaining viewing experience.
Q: Are cheap soundbars worth it?
Yes, a cheap soundbar is a great way to start making small improvements to your home audio system before committing to something more expensive. While they may not be able to keep up with popular advancements in audio, like spatialization and three-dimensional, nor will they be able to satisfy selective audiophiles, they are a great way to get an idea about what kind of home audio system you want to make.