Your TV's built-in speakers are almost certainly holding you back. Even a modest soundbar makes a real difference — voices become clearer, action scenes have impact, and music doesn't sound like it's coming from a tin can. The good news is you don't need to spend a fortune to hear that difference. Here's what to know before buying, and the best options available under $200.
What to Look for in a Soundbar Under $200
Wireless subwoofer: At this price, a bundled wireless subwoofer is a big deal. It adds real bass without you running a cable across the room, and it dramatically changes how movies and music feel. Prioritize bundles that include one.
HDMI ARC or eARC: This connection lets your TV send audio to the soundbar over the same HDMI cable used for picture — and lets you control volume with one remote. It's far more reliable than optical and worth choosing if your TV supports it. Most modern TVs do.
Dolby Audio / DTS: Standard on most bars at this price. Look for Dolby Atmos only if it's a specific priority — it's rare under $200 and the real-world benefit depends on the content you watch.
Connectivity: Bluetooth is handy for music streaming directly from your phone. Multiple inputs (optical + HDMI ARC) give you flexibility.
Vizio V-Series 2.1 Soundbar (V21x-J8)
The Vizio V21x-J8 is our top pick for most people. It comes with a wireless subwoofer, sounds significantly better than the asking price suggests, and setup takes under five minutes. DTS Virtual:X broadens the soundstage for movies and TV shows, and it's compatible with virtually any TV via optical or HDMI ARC. If you want an honest upgrade without complexity, start here.
Samsung HW-B550 2.1 Channel
If you own a Samsung TV, the HW-B550 is worth a serious look. Samsung's ecosystem integration means your TV remote controls everything automatically once you plug in via HDMI ARC — no separate remote needed. The wireless subwoofer produces solid bass, and the bar itself sits low enough to avoid blocking the screen on most TV stands.
Hisense HS2100
The Hisense HS2100 delivers 240W of power through its soundbar and wireless subwoofer, with DTS Virtual:X for a wider soundstage. Bluetooth 5.3 makes music streaming responsive, and Roku TV Ready integration means seamless setup if you're in the Roku ecosystem. At around $130, it's one of the best values in this category.
TCL Alto 7+
If you want the simplest possible upgrade and aren't chasing premium audio, the TCL Alto 7+ does the job at a price that leaves money in your pocket. It integrates with Roku TVs natively and has built-in Alexa support. The subwoofer is wireless and competent. It's not the most refined option here, but for a budget-first buyer it's a smart, no-fuss choice.
Creative Stage Pro
The Creative Stage Pro is a compact 22-inch soundbar that punches above its size. It connects via HDMI ARC, optical, Bluetooth 5.3, or USB-C — the most versatile connectivity at this price. It doesn't include a subwoofer, so bass is lighter than the 2.1 systems above — but for desks, small bedrooms, or secondary TVs where space is tight, it's an excellent fit at around $150.
What to Skip
Avoid no-name or unfamiliar brand soundbars under $100 that promise 5.1 surround sound — the reality rarely matches the marketing. Also steer clear of soundbars without any subwoofer (wired or wireless) unless you're in a very small space; the bass difference is noticeable for anything but background TV.
Bottom Line
For most buyers, the Vizio V21x-J8 or Hisense HS2100 are the safest choices — both deliver a genuine upgrade with a wireless subwoofer at a fair price. Samsung TV owners should look at the HW-B550 for seamless integration. For compact spaces, the Creative Stage Pro fits where larger bars can't. Any of these will make your TV sound meaningfully better from day one.