Top 10 best soundbars under £100 for 2023

Best Soundbars Under £100

The best way to improve your TV watching experience is to add a soundbar. But with a market flooded with options, we’ve search for the best soundbars under £100. These clever devices sit underneath the TV and project a wider, more detailed sound field over the TV’s onboard speakers.

 

However, there’s more to them than meets the eyes. Most soundbars also are Bluetooth ready, allowing you to play music from your phone or tablet.

 

Whether you’re looking to improve your TV or movie watching experience or enjoy music in a higher quality, a soundbar is a must.

 

Having searched the internet, here are our top 10 best soundbars under £100. Included in our list are well-known brands, new arrivals on the scene and a personal favourite.

 

And, if you haven’t purchased a soundbar yet, start with our guide to what size soundbar is best for your TV and also read our soundbar buying guide.

 

 

Item

Photo

Our rating

Price*

Purchase

Samsung HW-N300 Compact Soundbar

9/10

£99.00

Goodmans 60 W 2.1 Bluetooth Soundbar

9/10

£44.00

LG Electronics SK1 All-in-One Soundbar

8/10

£74.00

Sony HT-SF150 2ch Single Soundbar

8/10

£89.00

JVC Compact Sound Bar

8/10

£60.00

Majority Snowdon II Soundbar

7/10

£35.00

AZATOM Studio Soundbar

7/10

£60.00

Panasonic SC-HTB8 Soundbar

7/10

£69.00

TaoTronics 40-Inch Sound Bar

6/10

£60.00

LONPOO 20-inch Slim Soundbar

6/10

£33.00

* Prices correct at time of publishing

 

 

Samsung HW-N300 Compact Soundbar

Samsung HW-N300 compact soundbar

photo by Samsung

Description

Immerse yourself in world-class sounds with Samsung HW-N300 Compact Soundbar. Beneath the compact, stylish design sits 4 speakers which are fed by a 2 channel amplifier (15 watts per channel).

 

The combination of the speakers with amplifier produces a rich, full sound across all frequencies. Dialogue sound crystal clear, whereas audio is reproduced in stunning detail.

 

In terms of inputs, you can directly connect your TV using an optical cable or RCA phonos. While the onboard Bluetooth enables you to seamlessly connect the soundbar to your smartphone or tablet. There are basic controls at one end and a fantastic remote.

 

If your planning to pair this soundbar with a Samsung smart TV, then you’ll be relieved to learn you only need a single remote to control both. Discover a whole new world of entertainment at your fingertips with the Samsung HW-N300 Compact Soundbar.

 

Pros

  • 30 Watts output
  • Works effortlessly with Samsung smart TVs
  • Multiple inputs

Cons

  • No cables included

 

Conclusion

Offering plenty of power, multiple inputs and compact design, Samsung HW-N300 Compact Soundbar is highly affordable.

 

At 64 cm long, the HW-N300 fits perfectly under a range of TV sizes, whether on a media unit or mounted to the wall. You’ll need to supply audio cables if you plan to use the optical or RCA phonos inputs as sadly none come with the unit.

 

What makes this Samsung soundbar interesting is the built-in wireless connection, making it simple to pair this soundbar with a Samsung TV. You can also use the soundbar’s remote to control the TV!

 

If you’re looking to improve your TV’s speakers and want a powerful, sleek unit then it’s worth considering the Samsung HW-N300 Compact Soundbar. 9/10 (read our full review)

 

 

 

Goodmans 60 W 2.1 Bluetooth Soundbar

Goodmans 60W Soundbar

photo by Goodmans

 

Description

Offering 60 watts of power, the Goodmans 60 W 2.1 Bluetooth Soundbar is an affordable solution with plenty of power. It comes with a range of cables, so getting it set up is easy. Also in the box is a mounting kit in case you plan on fixing it to a wall.

 

The Goodmans delivers 60 watts of power, which is more than you’ll probably ever need. Plus, the unit has an integrated sub-woofer. This means it delivers a clear and full sound across the frequencies.

 

In terms of connectivity, on the rear, there are optical and RCA inputs. On the right side, alongside the controls is an AUX mini-jack socket. In addition, the soundbar is Bluetooth compatible.

 

The control panel on the right-hand side includes volume, source, and Bluetooth. If you prefer, there’s a small remote.

 

This remote covers all the basics like source, power, mute and volume. You can also select from the 3 DSP settings (Music/Movie/Voice) and adjust the bass and treble. In Bluetooth mode, you can use the play/pause, forward and rewind buttons.

 

Pros

  • 60 Watts
  • 3 preset modes
  • Good connectivity options

Cons

  • no HDMI ARC

 

Conclusion

We think the Goodmans 60 W 2.1 Bluetooth Soundbar is superb and steal. We’d recommend you buy the 60-watt version as the 30-watt unit lacks the power that movies and you deserve! So treat yourself!

 

Overall the soundbar is well throughout. You have plenty of connectivity options on the rear. The side panel controls and aux input are super useful, especially if you have an iPod that you wish to use on occasion.

 

While we would argue that the remote has too many options and is small, it is useful for fine-tuning the overall sound. As the unit doesn’t have HDMI ARC, which would allow you to control the volume from the TV’s remote, you’ll find that the remote comes in handy. 9/10 (read our full review)

 

 

 

LG Electronics SK1 All-in-One Soundbar

LG Electronics SK1 Soundbar

photo by LG Electronics

 

Description

Designed to match an LG 43 inch TV this LG Electronics SK1 All-in-One Soundbar has a unique look. With a total output of 40 watts, the SK1 delivers enough power for TV, movies and music.

 

The unit features a built-in Bass Blast mode with delivers a fuller sound without the need for a subwoofer.

 

Set up is straight forward with three inputs and Bluetooth connectivity. These inputs are located on the rear and consist of HDMI ARC, optical and mini-jack.

 

As an LG product, it syncs with their TVs via their Sound Sync option and so provides control using your existing TV remote. Of course, if your TV isn’t an LG, then the remote will come in handy.

 

The remote is fairly small, but does provides access to the main functions. In addition to volume, power and source buttons, you can activate the Bass Blast and the Dynamic Range Control (DRC).

 

Selecting DRC mode means the soundbar will automatically prevent sudden volume changes and will improve the clarity of the sound at low volume.

 

A unique feature on the SK1 is its power on options. You can set it up so that it reacts to the input source. For example, if you decide to play music via Bluetooth, simply cast to the SK1 and jump into action.

 

Finally, the LG SK1 is easy to mount if you prefer that over resting it on a media unit.

 

 

Pros

  • Easily syncs with LG TVs
  • Unique Bass Blast and Dynamic Range Control modes

Cons

  • AUX input is on rear
  • No opical cable included
  • No bass and treble controls

 

Conclusion

There’s something almost futuristic about the LG Electronics SK1 All-in-One Soundbar from a design standpoint. And while it’s one of the most expensive on our list, it’s a feature-packed soundbar.

 

There are a few points which let the SK1 down. Firstly there are no cables included. Again one would imagine this would be a stupidly simple issue for LG to sort. So, if you do purchase, make sure you add some cables!

 

The mini-jack AUX input is on the rear. This means it will be a pain to use if you prefer to play music via an iPod, for example. Of course, if you plan to only Bluetooth, then this won’t be a deal breaker.

 

Rather than including the option to tweak the bass and treble, LG has replaced this with a Bass Blast mode. While this might work for the majority of users, having these controls would be a bonus.

 

We like the DRC mode and considering the above, the Bass Blast is also useful. The sync option is great and means you’re not always searching for a remote. Plus the automatic power on/off option is really nice too. 8/10 (read our full review)

 

 

 

Sony HT-SF150 2ch Single Soundbar

Sony HT-SF150 Soundbar

photo by Sony

 

Description

Measuring 35 inches (90 cm), the Sony HT-SF150 soundbar is of a decent size and so will blend in under most TVs. It’s also easily mounted on the wall.

 

Under the hood of the Sony HT-SF150 are two speakers, which each produce 30 watts. These are designed to give a punchy bass without sacrificing the overall frequency response. Sony’s S-Force virtual surround sound technology is designed to emulate the surround sound typical of the cinema.

 

This unit connects to your TV via optical or HDMI. Playing music using the device is also simple as you can easily stream via Bluetooth or use the USB input.

 

The HT-SF150 remote enables more control that you’ll ever require! However, it’s simple enough for anyone to use.

 

If you lose the remote or if that’s not your thing, then you’ll find the buttons on top useful. These include buttons for input source, volume +/- and power. The easy to see status LEDs, shows which input is selected.

 

Mounting is easy and only requires two screws. Sadly, these are not included. And of course, Sony HT-SF150 looks superb sat under a TV.

 

Pros

  • S-Force virtual surround sound technology
  • Slimline design
  • 60 watts

Cons

  • Limited connectivity
  • Doesn’t come with HDMI cable

 

Conclusion

When it comes to TVs and hi-fis, the Sony brand remains amongst the best. And this Sony HT-SF150 2ch Single Soundbar doesn’t disappoint.

 

Starting with the bad points. The unit comes with short AC and optical cables. So, if you’re planning to connect via HDMI, then you’ll need to buy a cable.

 

In terms of connectivity, the Sony HT-SF150 only provides two inputs (Optical and HDMI ARC). This mean users with older TV might struggle. In our opinion, Sony could have included an AUX mini-jack input. Doing so would ensure wider connectivity.

 

Finally, the remote while well thought out does provide you with more options that you’ll ever need. A slimmer remote would be better, especially if your goal is to improve the TV’s built-in speakers.

 

We like the virtual surround system, while it will never replace a 5.1 setup, it does sound rich. You’ll be disappointed if you hope this Sony soundbar will replace the need for a subwoofer. 8/10 (read our full review)

 

 

 

JVC Compact Sound Bar

JVC Compact Soundbar

photo by JVC

 

Description

If you’re looking for a slim soundbar for a bedroom, the kitchen or simply for your main TV, then JVC TH-D227B 2.0 Compact Sound Bar could be for you.

 

Designed for TVs of 17 inches and up, JVC has packed a lot into a small space. The unit uses two 15 watt speakers and has a good amount of power.

 

While you can place it on top of a unit, the included mounting kit will enable you to fix the soundbar to the wall with ease.

 

When it comes connecting the JVC with audio sources, there are a few options available. The unit has inputs for mini-jack, coaxial, and optical. All of these connections are located on the rear. Also, the unit is Bluetooth ready.

 

The unit comes with a 3.5mm mini-jack cable and a coaxial cable. Sadly, no optical cable is included.

 

The remote is well throughout with only the necessary options available. In addition to the remote, you can control the soundbar using the buttons on top. These include source buttons, vol +/-, and power. The status LEDs on the front are also useful.

 

Finally, the unit automatically switches to standby after 15 minutes of inactivity.

 

Pros

  • Slim design with small footprint
  • Mounting kit included
  • Good range of inputs

Cons

  • AUX input is on rear and hard to reach
  • Lacks full sounding bass

 

Conclusion

The JVC TH-D227B 2.0 Compact Sound Bar is a superb solution if you’re looking for a soundbar with a small footprint.

 

At 30 watts, it’s powerful enough to bring the TV to life but isn’t super loud. The frequency response is fairly good but lacks depth for movies as there’s no virtual surround sound programme.

 

We like the mounting kit as this will enable us to quickly set it up. The only downside to mounting it is the AUX input is on the rear and not on the side. So if you plan on occasional using an iPod or media player then you might be frustrated.

 

Another annoying point is JVC didn’t include an optical cable. While this is a small issue, it still bugs us. We like the LEDs on the front and the buttons on the top. Both are really useful and mean you don’t always have to reach for the remote.

 

Overall, the JVC is perfect for smaller TV and will improve the sound. 8/10

 

 

 

Majority Snowdon II Soundbar

Majority Snowdon II Soundbar

photo by Majority

 

Description

With its unique sloping design, the Majority Snowdon II Soundbar is a steal for the price!

 

Starting with the connectivity, there’s a good range of options on the Snowdow II. The optical input is likely to be your first choice. Sadly no optical cable is included. In addition, the unit has dual RCA phonos and AUX mini-jack.

 

This mini-jack socket is located at the end on the unit, next to the controls. This allows easy access if you want to use an iPod or media player. Bluetooth devices sync with ease. So there’s plenty of options with the Snowdow II soundbar.

 

With an inbuilt sub-woofer, the soundbar is designed to faithfully reproduce a 2.1 surround sound experience, albeit virtually. The total output of 120 watts means you have more than enough volume.

 

While the inputs are safely tucked away on the rear, the controls and AUX input are easily accessible on the right-hand side. These controls include vol +/-, power, and source. The remote provides another way to control the unit and enables you to control the basics as well as the EQ options.

 

As you’d expect, it’s quite easy to mount on a wall, however, screws are not included. Finally, the Snowdon II comes with a 3-year warranty.

 

Pros

  • 120 watt output
  • Built in sub-woofer
  • Multiple inputs (RCA phonos, Optical, mini-jack)

Cons

  • Optical cables not included
  • Turns on super loud
  • No HDMI input

 

Conclusion

The Majority Snowdon II Soundbar leaves us feeling a little mixed. It’s cheap and powerful but enough users have had issues to make us questions whether it’s worth it. Of course, some of these issues could be down to QA, which Majority might have sorted.

 

It’s worth noting that the included cables won’t be of the highest quality and may cause issues. So if do you purchase one, treat yourself to some better cables. You’ll thank us later!

 

We like the built-in sub-woofer, as well as the controls and an AUX input on the side. It’s slightly annoying that the unit doesn’t come with an optical cable as that is our preferred method of connection. 7/10 (read our full review)

 

 

 

AZATOM Studio Soundbar

AZATOM Soundbar

photo by AZATOM

 

Description

If you’re short on space but really want a 2.1 sound system, then the AZATOM Studio Soundbar might be for you.

 

Using a Multi-Directional Speaker Configuration and built-in Subwoofer, the AZATOM delivers an impressive 180 watts. The unique digital signal processing technology produces cinema-quality sound.

 

There are 4 built-in presets to choose from including Music, TV, Movies and default. Each fine-tunes the overall sound while enhancing your viewing experience.

 

There’s a good selection of connectivity, including HDMI ARC, optical and RCA phono inputs. A mini-jack AUX input is located with the controls on the right-hand side. This panel includes vol +/-, power, and input source. Also, you can connect via Bluetooth.

 

While there are controls on the right-hand side, the remote will enable you to fine-tune the sound further. The remote has controls for Bass and treble frequencies, input source, volume +/- and more.

 

Finally, AZATOM Studio Soundbar comes with a 3 Year Warranty.

 

Pros

  • Built-in sub woofer
  • 4 sound presets
  • 3 year Warranty

Cons

  • HDMI Arc doesn’t always work with older HDMI devices
  • Only an optical cable included

 

Conclusion

AZATOM products are UK and this soundbar has a number of unique features, which make the price seem cheap!

 

Firstly, the AZATOM Studio Soundbar is a decent size and sits under a 40 inch TV nicely. It comes with a wall mounting kit and is quite simple to mount it.

 

While only an optical cable is included, it’s likely you won’t need any other cables. Of course, if you have a 4k TV with HDMI ARC output then it will be worth buying a cable. Connecting this way means you’ll be able to control the soundbar using the TV’s remote.

 

As there are 4 presets, you can easily fine-tune the soundbar to the situation without having to try and balance frequencies on your own. 7/10

 

 

 

Panasonic SC-HTB8 Soundbar

Panasonic Soundbar SC-HTB8

photo by Panasonic

 

Description

The Panasonic SC-HTB8 Soundbar is a 2 channel unit which produces 80 watts of power. The slim design means it’s will easily fit under most TVs of 32″ to 50″ inches. Yet it still packs a punch!

 

The Panasonic SC-HTB8 has dynamic sound for HDTVs and Clear-mode dialogue feature for perfect sound spectrum. Plus you can stream via Bluetooth, with apps available in the Apple and Google Play stores.

 

In terms of connectivity, a few options are available in addition to Bluetooth. An optical input and RCA phono input are both located at the rear.

 

Moving on the front, on top, there’s two rows of controls. The first has vol +/- controls, input selector and power. The other row contains LEDs and indicates which mode is activated, the source and power status.

 

The small remote is quite basic and covers just the essentials. You can turn the unit on/off, control the volume, change the input source and the mode. There’s also a Bluetooth button.

 

Mounting is easy and only requires two screws, or you can place the unit on your media unit.

 

Pros

  • 80 Watts of power
  • Slim design
  • Clear-mode dialogue feature

Cons

  • Limited connectivity
  • No EQ controls
  • LEDs are hard to view

 

Conclusion

Like other well-known brands, we had high hopes for the Panasonic SC-HTB8 Soundbar. Sadly, it’s quite disappointing.

 

There are only two inputs (optical and RCA), there’s no HDMI ARC or mini-jack AUX input. Having just one of these would make connecting it to more devices easier. Second, you have to supply your own cables, even the power cable. Hopefully Panasonic will sort this out.

 

Our third issue is lack of control. The remote is fairly useless as it provides little options over what on the unit. Speaking about control, the LEDs, while helpful are set quite far back and are somewhat obscured.

 

We like the modes and the Clear-mode dialogue feature is impressive. However, it feels a little overpriced. 7/10 (read our full review)

 

 

 

TaoTronics 40-Inch Sound Bar

TaoTronics 40 inch Soundbar

photo by TaoTronics

 

Description

With its unique design, the TaoTronics 40-Inch Sound Bar offers a lot for it’s £60 price tag. Let’s start with its shape. The front is angled, which mean the speakers disperse into the room rather than in a straight line.

 

There’s four amplifiers onboard which drive two full-range speaker and two sub-woofers. This results in clearer sound and better overall frequency response.

 

The connectivity on the rear gives you plenty of options including optical, coaxial and RCA phono inputs. You can even play music directly from your device using Bluetooth. Both mini-jack to RCA and optical cables come with the unit.

 

On the front, the LED display is easy to use and displays the mode and loudness. Underneath this panel is four essential controls: vol+/-, power and mute.

 

If the controls on the front aren’t enough, then the remote provides you with more options. While most remotes have a source button which allows you to cycle through the inputs list, the TaoTronics remote has a button for each input. The remote also has buttons for power, vol -/+, mute amougst other.

 

Measuring 40 inches, you can place it on the top of a media unit or mount it to a wall (no screws included).

 

Pros

  • Unique design
  • Built-in subwoofer
  • LED display on the front

Cons

  • No mounting screws
  • Lacks AUX input
  • No way to control treble and bass frequencies

 

Conclusion

The TaoTronics 40-Inch Sound Bar TT-SK019 while fairly affordable,lacks in a few areas. Firstly, you have no control over the frequency response. So if you’re listening to TV and it sounds muffled, there’s no way for you to turn down the bass and increase the treble.

 

The LED display is nice but would work better on top as you’ll find yourself glancing at it rather than enjoying TV or music. The 4 controls under this display are useful but could equally be on top, out of the way.

 

The remote is confusing as there’s a button for each input source. While some will like this feature, others will wish for a single button as they might only use a second input occasionally.

 

All in all, we think there are better units on the market for the same price. 6/10

 

 

 

LONPOO 20-inch Slim Soundbar

LONPOO Slim 20 inch Soundbar

photo by LONPOO

 

Description

While LONPOO isn’t a household name, this 20-inch soundbar is worth looking at. So, what does a little over £30 get you?

 

Under the sleek 20 inch frame, there are 4 speakers which provide up to 10 watts in power. At each end, there are bass holes, which aims to improve the bass frequencies.

 

When compared to other soundbars in our list, 10 watts may seem on the small side. However, this unit should be sufficient for watching tv in a kitchen, bedroom or small living room.

 

As it’s designed to work with TV and computers, the LONPOO comes with a USB cable. So if your TV doesn’t have a USB socket, you’ll want to buy an adaptor.

 

The unit’s audio cable allows you to use a microphone and speaker. While you might never use the mic capabilities, it’ll be used if you live in a small apartment as it can double as a PC speaker. As a Bluetooth enabled device, it’s easy to stream music in its full glory.

 

The front has a volume knob which also acts as the power switch. There are also headphone and microphone sockets, for when you’re trying to keep the volume down.

 

Other than this size, what makes the LONPOO perfect for small space is the option to mount it on a wall. You can, of course, place it on a table.

 

Pros

  • Small – only 20 inches long
  • Versatile uses
  • Powers via USB

Cons

  • Low 10 watts output
  • Limited connectivity
  • Thin sound

 

Conclusion

The LONPOO 20-inch Slim Soundbar does a fairly good job. Of course, it won’t sound as good as the Sony or LG for example. But at half of the price, that’s what you’re paying for.

 

So is it worth it? Maybe.

 

For example, if you live in a small apartment and want to improve your TV’s sound, then it’s worth taking a look at. If you use your PC or laptop a lot and want to improve the sound then it’s a worthwhile upgrade.

 

However, if your a serious film buff or audiophile, then you’ll want to skip the LONPOO. 6/10

 

 

 

The best soundbars under £100

If you’re looking to improve your TV and movies watching experience then adding one of the best soundbars under £100 is a great idea.

 

While the market is flooded with cheap options, you’ll want to spend at least £50 to ensure you get one which will last and provide you with crystal clear sound.

 

Out of our 10, there are 2 best soundbars under £100. Firstly, Samsung HW-N300 Compact Soundbar offers plenty of power, multiple inputs and is highly affordable.

 

The Goodmans 60 W 2.1 Bluetooth Soundbar is a steal and is also a noticeable upgrade on TV speakers.