Choosing between a soundbar and a speaker system can be a tough decision for home audio enthusiasts. Audio technology continues to advance, making the debate over soundbar vs. speakers more relevant than ever. Whether you’re looking for a sleek, all-in-one solution or a high-fidelity multi-speaker setup, the right choice depends on your space, budget, and listening preferences.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between soundbars and traditional speaker systems, discuss their pros and cons, and outline the key factors you should consider before making a purchase. By the end, you’ll have a clear sense of which home audio setup suits your needs best in the soundbar vs. speakers debate.
What is a soundbar?
A soundbar is a long, slim speaker enclosure that houses multiple drivers to create a simulated surround sound effect. Designed for simplicity, its horizontal form factor sits below or in front of a TV and connects directly to your it or a streaming device, enhancing audio without the need for multiple speakers.
Soundbars often feature built-in amplification, virtual surround sound processing, and wireless connectivity options such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Some models may include a wireless subwoofer to enhance bass performance, while others offer compatibility with additional rear speakers for a more immersive surround sound experience.
Typical use cases:
- Great for small living spaces or apartments – A soundbar’s slim profile allows it to fit neatly under or in front of a TV without taking up much space. They also come in various sizes to accommodate smaller rooms or TVs as well.
- Ideal for those who want a simple plug-and-play solution – Most soundbars require minimal setup, often needing just one HDMI or optical cable connection. TVs with HDMI eARC ports route all audio through the soundbar, regardless of which source it comes from.
- Works well for casual TV watching, gaming, or background music – TV speakers often aren’t very loud or detailed. Soundbars significantly enhance TV audio, making dialogue clearer and adding more depth to movies and music.
Pros and cons of a soundbar
Pros:
- Minimal footprint – Compact and easy to fit under a TV, making it a great space-saving option.
- Easy installation – No complicated wiring or receiver setup; most soundbars connect via a single HDMI or optical cable. You may also have the option to add a subwoofer or additional speakers as rears.
- Wireless connectivity – Many models support Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, allowing seamless streaming from your phone or smart device.
- Affordable options – Entry-level soundbars are budget-friendly, offering decent audio improvements over built-in TV speakers.
- Smart features – Some premium soundbars integrate with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant for added convenience.
Cons:
- Limited surround sound immersion – A soundbar doesn’t provide true multi-directional surround sound like a full speaker system.
- Limited upgradability – While some high-end models let you expand on them with additional speakers, most soundbars are standalone devices with minimal customization.
- Smaller drivers – Compared to full speaker systems, soundbars often lack the power and depth needed for high-fidelity audio.
What is a speaker system?
A home speaker system consists of multiple audio components, such as bookshelf or floor-standing speakers, a subwoofer, and surround speakers. These systems offer a richer, more immersive sound experience, making them a favorite among audiophiles and home theatre enthusiasts.
Speaker systems typically come in different configurations, including 2.1, 5.1, and 7.1 setups. A 2.1 system includes two stereo speakers and a subwoofer, while 5.1 and 7.1 setups add rear and surround speakers for a truly cinematic experience.
Typical use cases:
- Best for dedicated home theatre setups – If you have a media room or a large living area, a multi-speaker system can create a realistic surround sound experience. This is mainly because sounds disperse across the system so that each speaker serves a purpose in creating that theatre-style immersion.
- Ideal for users who want a fully immersive surround sound experience – Speaker systems deliver superior audio clarity, spatial awareness, and bass response.
- Suitable for those with the space to accommodate multiple speakers – Unlike a soundbar, a full speaker system requires careful speaker placement for optimal performance.
Pros and cons of a speaker system
Pros:
- Superior surround sound – A multi-speaker setup delivers true 360-degree audio immersion, enhancing movie and gaming experiences. Not all content may necessarily support 5.1 or 7.1 setups but more and more streaming services do support surround sound in some form.
- Flexible upgrades – Expand your setup over time by adding more speakers, a larger subwoofer, or upgrading to a Dolby Atmos-compatible receiver.
- Customizable sound – Adjust speaker placement, calibration, and equalizer settings to fine-tune your audio experience.
- Powerful performance – Larger speaker drivers and dedicated subwoofers ensure richer bass and clearer highs compared to a soundbar.
Cons:
- More expensive upfront – A full home theatre system requires a larger investment, including an AV receiver, multiple speakers, and additional cables.
- Complex setup – Proper speaker placement and calibration can be time-consuming, often requiring speaker stands or wall mounts. Depending on the room, hiding wires may also prove more challenging when more speakers are involved.
- Space requirements – Unlike a soundbar, a full surround system takes up significantly more room and requires careful cable management. That may include fishing cables through walls or ceilings depending on your desired setup.
Soundbar vs. speakers: key factors to consider
Budget
| Audio Setup | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Soundbar | $100 – $1,500+ |
| Speaker System | $300 – $5,000+ |
Compare a soundbar vs. speakers and you’ll find the former is generally more affordable, while the latter requires a bigger upfront investment but offers superior long-term performance.
Space and setup
A soundbar is ideal for compact spaces and requires minimal setup, while a speaker system demands careful planning for speaker placement and wiring.
Audio quality
Soundbars provide a noticeable improvement over built-in TV speakers, but a full speaker system delivers better clarity, bass response, and surround sound immersion.
Connectivity
Both options support Bluetooth, HDMI ARC, and Wi-Fi, but a speaker system with an AV receiver offers additional connectivity options, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support. That doesn’t mean soundbars don’t offer Dolby Atmos or DTS:X support, as several do, particularly in the mid-range to premium models.
Future-proofing
Soundbars may allow limited expansion with wireless subwoofers or rear speakers, while a speaker system can be upgraded over time by adding more speakers or upgrading components.
Soundbar vs. speakers: which one is right for you?
| User Type | Best Option |
| Small apartment dweller | Soundbar |
| Casual TV watcher | Soundbar |
| Movie enthusiast | Speaker system |
| Audiophile | Speaker system |
| Gamer | Soundbar or speakers, depending on space |
Other options
- Soundbase platforms – A compact alternative to soundbars, placed under a TV.
- Hybrid systems – Some soundbars allow adding wireless rear speakers and subwoofers for a more immersive experience.
Enhance your home theatre experience
When choosing between soundbar vs. speakers consider your budget, space, and audio needs. If you prioritize ease of use and compact design, a soundbar is a great choice. However, if you want full surround sound and a system you can upgrade later, speakers are the way to go.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the disadvantages of a soundbar?
While soundbars improve TV audio, they generally lack true surround sound depth, offer smaller drivers compared to full speaker systems, and have limited upgrade options, making them less ideal for audiophiles seeking a fully immersive experience.
Do I need speakers with a soundbar?
No, a soundbar usually functions as a standalone unit. However, some models support wireless subwoofers and rear speakers to enable users to enhance their audio setup if they want to do so.
Should I get surround sound or a soundbar?
If you want a cinematic, immersive audio experience, go for a surround speaker system. If you prefer a simple, space-saving, and budget-friendly option, a soundbar is the better choice.
This article was drafted using AI technology and then reviewed, fact-checked, and revised by a member of our editorial team.
