Imagine owning a TV with superb visuals but the audio doesn’t match up. This is where soundbars come in as a necessity for both older and recent models of TV. This is very different from the general speakers commonly known and they also come in different models, designs, and price ranges.
Soundbars are slim speakers that promise you better and quality sound output than your average TV speaker. The thing about soundbars is that they are exclusively designed for TV audio, such that it serves you either you’re watching an action movie or you want to simply focus on the background music from your favorite TV series. Soundbars can have between two to five distinct speakers within a single box. Since nobody wants space-eating, bulky speakers around anymore, soundbars are designed to make up for the not too perfect sound whilst still saving you space and maintaining your room setup.
With much attention to soundbars in recent years, more features are being added to make up for few inadequacies that have been observed. Each of these upgrades implies the price goes a bit higher, however, soundbars remain affordable for everyone who needs one. Our focus today is on the best soundbars under £100.
Best Soundbars Buyer’s Guide
We’d want to assume you are on a budget and making this decision oftentimes could be quite tedious as you would have several bars to choose from. In this section, we will consider some factors/features which will help you decide the best soundbar.
Built-in Subwoofer
Subwoofers help to reproduce low-frequency audio. It helps to create a fuller sound and a better audio projection across your room. Purchasing a soundbar with a dedicated subwoofer saves you the funds that might be needed to buy a subwoofer separately. If you are keen on TV shows and action movies then such a soundbar is what you would go for.
Soundbar Size
Soundbars are ultimately space savers. Imagine the space a complete home theatre surround system would consume, also remembering it would cost you some extra pounds to set up. However, if you intend to have your soundbar below your TV then you should consider the size of the soundbar and even that of your TV. These soundbars come in stylish look and ordinarily shouldn’t be wider than your TV. Hence, you take the measurements of your TV to ensure the soundbar wouldn’t stick out on either side of the TV or the height obstructing the lower part of your TV screen.
Stereo or Surround Sound
With a larger room, you might consider a surround system for a more complete sound. With a surround system, sounds get channeled to each speaker. Traditional surround sound systems are often more expensive and having a soundbar that incorporates a surround-sound system like the Dolby Atmos will be a better option. A soundbar with 3 or more channels provides you with a more exhilarating sound experience as individual speakers are distinguished. Although this wouldn’t be to the full capacity of a true surround sound. Some soundbars also make use of sound enhancement and beam-type speakers that causes sounds to bounce off on walls. These features could be used as markers in choosing a brand or type of soundbar.
Connectivity Options
This is quite important in choosing a soundbar. You have to consider and explore your options, whether the Bluetooth, USB, Wi-Fi, or HDMI ARC works best for you. There would be times you intend to stream an episode or two on your phone or PC, hence it would be required you connect your phone to the soundbar. With the HDMI ARC, the soundbar can be connected to the TV’s audio return channel.
Additional Features
Having added features like the Fire TV or Dolby digital decoding goes a long way in getting a more pleasurable experience. For instance, with a Fire TV edition soundbar, you get access to several streaming services and apps not available with the average soundbar while saving cost.
A quick tip on how to test your soundbars is to try watching several shows with different sound effect and take note
Since you’re on a limited budget, below are two of the best soundbars under £100.
Top 8 Best Soundbars Under £100 in UK
Sony HT-SF150 Soundbar
Weight: 2.4kg
Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 90 x 6.4cm
The Sony HT-SF150 comes with an excellent design which allows it to easily blend under the TV and your home set-up. You have the choice of placing it below your TV or even mounting it on a wall.
The virtual surround system does a good job and even comes close to delivering such an output that a 5.1 set-up would. However, it might not be able to replace the 5.1 set-ups but you’re certain you have been saved some space.
The Sony HT-SF150 boasts a bass reflex speaker that delivers amazing bass output making it perfect for both TV shows and music.
With the HDMI ARC, it allows you to connect all your TV audio, this can also be controlled with just a single remote. It also features Bluetooth technology which makes it playing audio from your phone or PC done effortlessly and saves you the hassle of cables in connecting your phone. The remote control also covers the basic controls you might need. It also comes with an optical cable for a fully interactive experience.
- Good sound quality
- HDMI ARC input
- Sleek design
- S-Force surround sound technology
- No bass and treble control
- Limited connectivity options
- No HDMI cable
Sharp HT-SBW182 Soundbar
Weight: 1.3kg
Product Dimensions: 74 x 8.1 x 6.3cm
The Sharp HT-SBW182 still ranks the highest amongst soundbars that are below £100. The reason for this is not far-fetched either. The Soundbar consists of a powerful 160watts from which it delivers Top-notch sound from your TV or any other device.
This soundbar boasts of an external wireless subwoofer that projects ground-shaking bass and replicates the cinema kind of sound atmosphere.
The soundbar works with of several connection options. This affords you more luxury asides from the common Bluetooth method. One of those is the HDMI ARC which works more like you just plug and play. As long as the TV is HDMI compatible, you’re good to go. Other options include the optical input, 3.5mm AUX jack input, and also Bluetooth. You can easily stream from your favorite apps like Spotify and enjoy.
The soundbar also features pre-set equalizer modes that allow you to enjoy your favorite TV shows, watch the News or even stream your music. With the EQ modes, you get full control of your soundbar with a dedicated remote control. You easily adjust and balance the sound output with just a button. It’s one we would recommend as a decent soundbar that gets the job done.
- Lightweight
- Wireless Subwoofer
- Wall mountable
- Multiple connectivity options
- No Dolby Atmos
- No optical cable
TopVision 120W 2.1 Channel Soundbar
Weight: 3.2kg
Product Dimensions: 89.92 x 8.38 x 7.11cm
The TopVision 120W 2.1 soundbar is another outstanding soundbar that is designed in an elegant yet simple way. The soundbar is an all-in-one 2.1 soundbar that boasts two built-in speakers and one built-in subwoofer. It is one said to be perfect for all occasions. The 120W output gives you the confidence of quality Cinematic 3D surround sound that envelopes your room.
It also offers a good range of connectivity options, the most common which is Bluetooth 5.0 as it affords you the luxury of easily connecting with other Bluetooth enabled devices. With Bluetooth 5.0, the anti-interference is much stronger. Other connection options are AUX/RCA, Optical, HDMI, USB, and wired connection.
It comes with a remote control that allows you to change the sound setting to your preferences easily. It features three smart modes of music, movie, or dialogue from which you can select your pre-set mode. Each of the modes is optimized to bring out the best sound during each use.
The TopVision soundbar manufacturers offer lifetime technical support for everyone who purchases the product and also a 2-year warranty on the product.
- Quality sound
- Wall mountable
- Multiple connection options
- Lifetime technical support
- 2-year warranty
- Not compatible with TV or Universal remote
GooDee 2.0 Channel TV Soundbar
Weight: 0.85kg
Product Dimensions: 58 x 5 x 5cm
The GooDee soundboard isn’t one of your regulars as it offers you quality audio at a ridiculously cheap price. Coupled with this, the weight is below 1kg. As much as it does not fit into what a few users consider as a soundbar because of its build, it sure does provide enough value for its design and price.
The GooDee soundbar 2.0 comes with four high-quality speakers that help provide you a clear sound. The soundbar produces what is often regarded as a surround sound which enhances the audio projection across the room.
The soundbar boasts multiple connectivity options which include RCA/AUX Inputs, 3.4mm audio input. It also features a Bluetooth 4.2 that allows you a wireless connection. In addition, it also features a micro SD card slot for direct music playing.
The GooDee soundbar 2.0 uses both dedicated buttons and a remote depending on your preference.
Another outstanding feature of this soundboard is that it comes with a battery that can provide an output of two hours when fully charged. It can equally be used when charging. The soundbar is also suited for both indoor and outdoor use. Overall, we can safely conclude that the GooDee 2.0 soundbar is one of the cheapest and quality soundbars out there.
- Small size
- Lightweight
- Multiple connection options
- Battery
- No fire 4K
LG SK1D All in One 100W Soundbar
Weight: 2.47kg
Product Dimensions: 4.7 x 95 x 7.1cm
We wouldn’t be exaggerating to place it on the same levels as some other brands that happen to be much more expensive. The LG auto sound engine allows optimization of sounds and helps to keep sound frequencies accurate.
The LG SK1D features an adaptive sound control that adjusts sounds dependent on what you are listening to or watching. It couldn’t be any better with the 100watts power, which assures you louder and better sound compared to the earlier model LG SK1. The soundbar boasts of an inbuilt subwoofer. It also boasts of tweeters that help bring out higher sound pitches.
The LG SK1D blends easily beneath your TV taking up little or no space. The soundbar works with a remote. It is very easy to set up and use, just by following the instructions.
It features Bluetooth connectivity which makes it relatively easy to play music or other audio from other gadgets. The soundbar comes with batteries and also features night mode use that optimizes the sound for a perfect night sound experience.
The price which this soundbar is offered makes it even more appealing. One you can consider if you are looking for an upgrade for your TV audio at a fair price.
Easy to setup
Improved sound quality
Excellent bass
- Connecting cable not included
AZATOM 120W, 2.1 Soundbar
Weight: 4.5kg
Product Dimensions: 80 x 6 x 6.2cm
The Azatom soundbar boasts of a power output of 120Watts. The soundbar produces sound effectively with 4 tweeters and an additional wired subwoofer.
Just like most soundbars today, this soundbar also comes with remote control for easy use. The remote control also has bass and treble independent adjustments. You get to adjust according to preferences and do a couple of other things without having to change your position at all.
The soundbar is relatively easy to set up and use. It comes with various options for connectivity, making it more versatile. It features the latest Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity which assures a fast and stable connection with devices. It also features HDMI ARC.
The soundbar also balances its good quality sound with its stylish design and blends well with your home setup. The soundbar is quite affordable comes with lifetime customer support and a protective premium 3-year warranty.
- Multiple connectivity options
- Lifetime customer support
- 3-yearWarranty
- Wireless connection
- Subwoofer available
- Switches off too quickly in standby mode
- Optical cord not included in the package
TCL TS7000, 2.0 Soundbar
Weight: 2.6kg
Product Dimensions: 92 x 9.8 x 6.4cm
The TCL TS7000 is a budget soundbar that delivers exceptional sound above what you pay for. Generally, TCL soundbars are optimized with sound modes to keep the main audio alive and reduce sound distortion.
This soundbar boasts of a 2.0 channel home cinema sound with a whooping 160Watts power. This combined delivers a surround sound that fills the entire room. The soundbar also incorporates the Dolby digital audio system that ensures the surround sound produced is Top-notch.
The soundbar allows for a wide range of connections with multiple devices through different means. The major connection option being Bluetooth. Other connection options include HDMI ARC, USB, 3.5mm AUX input line input, and optical connector.
The soundbar also provides 3 different sound modes for News, Movies, and Music. Each has a slightly different mix which makes it distinct from one another.
It also comes with a wall mounting kit for good positioning. Conclusively, it’s one of the cheapest and best from TCL.
- Multiple connection options
- Wall mountable
- Pre-set EQ
- Optical cable not included in the package
TCL TS8011 Sound Bar with Built-in Subwoofer – Fire TV Edition
Weight: 3kg
Product Dimensions: 96.5 x 10.3 x 5.9cm
The TCL TS8011 soundbar gives you good value for your money. With the Fire 4K and connectivity options, it cannot get any better with such a price.
The TCL TS8011 is one soundbar you sure would love since its output would exceed expectations. This particular Fire TV edition soundbar stands out amongst others because it features a 4K streaming media player integrated into the system, this assures you a cinema type of experience with amazing sound output right from the comfort of your home. The soundbar also boasts of a built-in subwoofer.
The TCL TS8011 allows you the luxury to switch between optimized sound modes for Movies, Music, and News. You also get access to entertainment hubs like Alexa, Youtube, Amazon Music, and others. You also get easy control with Alexa’s voice remote control to search and launch functions or programs. The soundbar makes use of a corded electric power source.
Its amazing sound output cannot be overemphasized and we recommend if you are looking for an improvement for your sound and also want a 4K Firestick.
- Excellent sound quality
- Built-in subwoofer
- Alexa Voice control
- Connectivity options
- Fire TV
- No Ethernet connection
Conclusion
Your TV deserves a soundbar that can be called its own. From the review, considering one of these best soundbars under £100, they can be trusted to provide you with the audio experience you desire without having to break the bank.
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