You have a great TV, but the built-in speakers leave you underwhelmed. Dialogue sounds muffled, action scenes lack punch, and you miss the immersive experience of a movie theater. That is where a dedicated soundbar comes in. In this guide, we review three of the best soundbar options for 2026: the TCL S45H, the Samsung S60D, and the ULTIMEA Poseidon M60. Whether you want a simple upgrade or a full surround system, we have you covered. For more audio upgrades, check out our picks for the best Bluetooth speaker of 2026.

How to Choose the Best Soundbar

Sound Quality and Channel Configuration

Sound quality is the most important factor. A 2.0 channel soundbar like the TCL S45H delivers clear audio with virtual surround via Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. For a more immersive experience, the Samsung S60D offers 5.0 channels with built-in subwoofers, while the ULTIMEA Poseidon M60 provides a true 5.1-channel setup with a wired subwoofer and side-firing drivers. Consider your room size and whether you want rear speakers for full surround. For more on portable audio, see our anker soundcore 2 review.

Connectivity and Compatibility

Ensure your soundbar connects easily to your TV and other devices. HDMI eARC is ideal for lossless Dolby Atmos, as found on the Samsung S60D and ULTIMEA M60. The TCL S45H supports HDMI eARC/ARC, optical, Bluetooth, and AUX, making it versatile for older TVs. Bluetooth 5.4 on the ULTIMEA ensures stable wireless streaming. If you use a projector, the TCL is a great match. For more on portable audio, see our best bluetooth speaker on amazon list.

Room Calibration and Smart Features

Automatic room calibration tailors sound to your space. The TCL S45H uses AI Sonic technology via its app, while Samsung’s SpaceFit Sound Pro analyzes your room and optimizes audio. The ULTIMEA M60 offers a 10-band EQ and 121 presets through its app. Smart assistants like Alexa (built into the Samsung S60D) add convenience. These features ensure you get the best sound without manual tweaking.

Design and Size

A soundbar should complement your TV setup. The TCL S45H is low-profile (31.89 inches wide) and fits neatly under most TVs. The Samsung S60D is compact with an all-in-one design. The ULTIMEA M60 is larger due to its dedicated subwoofer but provides a more theatrical look. Measure your TV stand and consider wall-mounting options; the TCL includes a wall-mount kit.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best soundbar depends on your budget and needs. For an affordable yet powerful upgrade, the TCL S45H delivers impressive virtual surround with Dolby Atmos and AI room calibration. If you want a premium all-in-one solution with built-in subwoofers and smart features, the Samsung S60D is an excellent choice. For a full 5.1 surround experience with deep bass, the ULTIMEA Poseidon M60 offers incredible value. We recommend the TCL S45H 2.0 Sound Bar for Smart TV for most users and the ULTIMEA 5.1CH Surround Sound Bar System with Dolby for those who crave cinematic immersion. Either way, your TV audio will never be the same. For more electronics recommendations, visit our Electronics category.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a subwoofer with a soundbar?

It depends on your bass preference. The Samsung S60D has built-in subwoofers for deep bass without extra speakers. The ULTIMEA M60 includes a wired subwoofer for powerful low frequencies. The TCL S45H relies on its 100W output for room-filling sound, but lacks a dedicated subwoofer. If you love action movies or music with heavy bass, a subwoofer is a plus. For more audio tips, see our best bluetooth speaker for the money guide.

What is Dolby Atmos and do I need it?

Dolby Atmos creates a three-dimensional sound experience by adding height effects. All three soundbars support Dolby Atmos. The TCL uses virtual processing, while the Samsung and ULTIMEA offer true Atmos with dedicated drivers. If you watch movies and want to feel like you are in the scene, Atmos is worth it. Many streaming services now offer Atmos content.

Can I use a soundbar with my TV if it has no HDMI ARC?

Yes. The TCL S45H supports optical and AUX inputs, so it works with older TVs. The Samsung S60D and ULTIMEA M60 rely on HDMI eARC for best performance but also have Bluetooth and optical options. Check your TV’s outputs before buying.

How do I set up a soundbar with multiple devices?

Most soundbars act as a hub. Connect your TV via HDMI eARC, then plug in game consoles, streaming devices, or Blu-ray players to the soundbar’s HDMI inputs. The Samsung S60D and ULTIMEA M60 have multiple inputs. The TCL S45H is simpler but still offers Bluetooth for wireless streaming.