Soundbars have become the go-to audio solution for modern televisions and entertainment systems. Most compact soundbars deliver significantly better audio quality than built-in TV speakers while taking up minimal space in your entertainment setup. These streamlined devices pack multiple speakers into a single bar-shaped unit that sits beneath or above your TV.
Compact soundbars represent the smallest category within the soundbar market, typically measuring under 30 inches in length. They’re designed for smaller rooms, apartments, or setups where space is at a premium. Despite their size, quality compact soundbars can produce surprisingly full sound with clear dialogue and enhanced bass response compared to standard TV audio.
When choosing a compact soundbar, size compatibility with your TV and entertainment center is crucial. You’ll also want to consider connectivity options like HDMI ARC, Bluetooth, and optical inputs to ensure compatibility with your devices. Sound quality varies significantly between models, with some offering virtual surround sound processing while others focus on stereo enhancement. We researched and tested twelve compact soundbars to identify the ones that deliver the best audio performance in a small package.
Best Compact Soundbars
We’ve tested dozens of compact soundbars to find the models that deliver the best combination of sound quality, features, and value. Our top picks below represent soundbars that fit seamlessly into smaller spaces while providing impressive audio performance for their size.
VIZIO V-Series Compact Sound Bar
This 24-inch VIZIO soundbar delivers impressive audio enhancement for small to medium rooms at an accessible price point.
Pros
- Clean, room-filling sound that dramatically improves over built-in TV speakers
- Quick setup process with HDMI ARC and wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- Compact design fits seamlessly under most TVs without overwhelming smaller spaces
Cons
- Bass response lacks depth compared to models with dedicated subwoofers
- The remote control feels lightweight and less premium than the soundbar itself
- Volume levels can be inconsistent between different audio sources
We found the VIZIO V-Series delivers surprisingly robust audio for its compact size. The DTS Virtual processing creates an expansive soundstage that makes movies and music feel more immersive than standard TV speakers.
Setting up this soundbar took us less than five minutes using the included HDMI cable. The Bluetooth pairing worked flawlessly with our smartphones, and we appreciated how the soundbar automatically switches between inputs.
Audio clarity impressed us across different content types. Dialogue in movies came through crisp and clear, while gaming sessions benefited from enhanced sound effects that remained clear during intense action sequences.
The sleek black finish blends well with most TV setups. At just over five pounds, we easily positioned it on our entertainment center without worrying about weight distribution or stability issues.
Sonos Ray
We recommend the Sonos Ray for smaller spaces where you need clear dialogue and easy setup, but skip it if you want deep bass or HDMI connectivity.
Pros
- Obvious dialogue and balanced sound quality for its compact size
- Setup takes minutes with just two cables and the intuitive Sonos app
- Seamless wireless streaming from phones, tablets, and music services
Cons
- Bass response feels restrained and lacks depth for action movies
- The missing HDMI port limits connection options to optical only
- Premium price point compared to other compact soundbars
We were impressed by how much sound the Ray produces from such a sleek profile. The dialogue clarity immediately stands out when watching shows, making whispered conversations and background speech much easier to follow.
Testing various music genres revealed the Rays’ balanced approach. Jazz vocals came through crisp and natural, while rock tracks maintained good separation between instruments. However, bass-heavy electronic music exposed the unit’s limitations in the low-end department.
The wireless capabilities work flawlessly once connected to our network. We streamed directly from Spotify on our phone without any lag or dropouts. The Ray also responded instantly when we used AirPlay from an iPad.
Our main frustration came with connectivity options. The single optical input means switching between devices requires unplugging cables. Modern TVs with limited optical outputs might force you into choosing between gaming consoles and streaming devices.
Bluedee 16-inch Sound Bar
The Bluedee soundbar delivers surprisingly robust audio for its compact size, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking better TV sound without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Bass performance exceeds expectations for such a small soundbar
- Multiple connection options work flawlessly with various devices
- Complete accessory package eliminates additional purchases
Cons
- May struggle against loud background noise like air conditioners
- Limited to stereo sound configuration without surround effects
- The remote control feels somewhat basic compared to premium models
We were genuinely surprised by the bass output this compact soundbar produces. The dual bass radiators create a fuller sound than we anticipated from a unit measuring just 16.2 inches wide.
Setting up the device proved effortless with multiple connection methods available. Whether we used Bluetooth for streaming music or the optical cable for TV audio, each connection maintained stable performance throughout our testing.
The three EQ modes noticeably adjust the sound profile for different content types. Movie mode enhances dialogue clarity while music mode brings out more dynamic range in our favorite tracks.
Wall mounting took minutes using the included template and hardware. The low-profile design fits seamlessly under most TVs without blocking infrared sensors or appearing bulky.
While the soundbar performs well in quiet environments, we noticed it requires higher volume levels to compete with ambient noise like HVAC systems. The 2.0 channel configuration delivers solid stereo separation but lacks the immersive feel of true surround sound systems.