Your TV’s picture quality might be stunning, but if the audio sounds like it’s coming from a tin can, your movie nights, gaming sessions, or music playlists are missing their full potential. Built-in TV speakers are notoriously weak, often delivering flat, muffled sound that fails to capture the excitement of your content. A soundbar is the perfect fix—a sleek, budget-friendly device that transforms your audio experience without requiring a complex setup or a big budget.
Think $50 is too low for a decent soundbar? Think again! Today’s budget soundbars pack impressive features like Bluetooth streaming, clear dialogue, and even simulated surround sound, all while staying affordable. In this guide, we’ll explore the best soundbars under $50 in 2025, share expert tips for choosing and setting them up, and answer common questions to help you elevate your home entertainment on a budget.
Why a Soundbar Under $50 Is a Smart Investment
Soundbars are a game-changer for anyone looking to upgrade their TV audio without the cost or complexity of a full home theater system. Even at the $50 price point, these devices offer:
Enhanced Sound Quality: Crisp dialogue, richer mids, and improved clarity for movies, shows, and games.
Space-Saving Design: Compact profiles that fit neatly under your TV or on a shelf.
Flexible Connectivity: Bluetooth for wireless streaming, plus wired options like AUX or USB for universal compatibility.
Budget-Friendly Upgrade: A low-cost way to make your entertainment setup feel premium.
Perfect for small apartments, dorm rooms, or secondary TVs, these soundbars deliver noticeable improvements over standard TV speakers, making them ideal for casual viewers, gamers, or music enthusiasts.
What to Prioritize When Buying a Soundbar Under $50
Shopping for a budget soundbar requires balancing expectations with practical needs. Here’s what to focus on:
Audio Performance: Seek clear vocals and balanced sound. Some models use bass-enhancing tech to mimic deeper lows, even without a subwoofer.
Connection Options: Bluetooth is essential for wireless streaming from phones or tablets. Look for wired inputs like 3.5mm AUX, RCA, or optical for TV compatibility.
Size and Fit: Check the soundbar’s dimensions to ensure it fits your TV stand without blocking the screen or IR sensor.
User-Friendly Features: A remote or simple controls make adjustments easy. Sound modes (e.g., movie, music, voice) optimize audio for different content.
Durability: Budget models often use plastic, but avoid flimsy builds that rattle at high volumes.
Bonus Features: Extras like LED lights, TF card slots, or voice enhancement add value for specific use cases like gaming or music playback.
With these factors in mind, let’s explore the top soundbars under $50 that deliver the best bang for your buck.
Top 5 Soundbars Under $50 for 2025
1. Vanzon Bluetooth Soundbar
Price: Check Prices in Amazon
Key Features:
- 3D stereo sound with dual drivers
- Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless streaming
- AUX, USB, and TF card inputs
- Three sound modes (movie, music, dialogue)
- Remote control included
- 15-inch compact design
The Vanzon Bluetooth Soundbar is a versatile gem, delivering immersive stereo sound through its dual drivers. Its 3D audio processing creates a wider soundstage, perfect for action movies or immersive gaming. The three sound modes let you customize the audio—movie mode boosts effects, music mode balances highs and mids, and dialogue mode sharpens voices for talk shows or podcasts. Its compact size makes it ideal for small spaces.
Pros:
Smooth Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
Intuitive remote for easy control
Fits small TV stands or desks
Cons:
Bass is limited without a subwoofer
Plastic build feels basic
Best For: Students or renters needing a compact, wireless soundbar for small spaces.
2. Wohome Mini Soundbar
Price: Check Prices in Amazon
Key Features:
- 20W output with dual full-range speakers
- Bluetooth 4.2 for wireless streaming
- AUX, RCA, and USB inputs
- Sleek, low-profile design
- Built-in bass reflex port
- Side control panel
The Wohome Mini Soundbar combines affordability with solid audio performance. Its bass reflex port enhances low-end frequencies, adding depth to music and movie soundtracks. The 20W output fills small to medium rooms, and the low-profile design ensures it won’t obstruct your TV. Bluetooth 4.2 supports reliable streaming, while wired inputs make it compatible with most TVs and devices.
Pros:
Decent bass for a standalone unit
Minimalist design blends into any setup
Affordable and reliable
Cons:
No remote control
Limited sound customization
Best For: Minimalists who want a simple, effective soundbar for daily TV watching.
3. Yovance RGB Soundbar
Price: Check Prices in Amazon
Key Features:
- 50W output for robust sound
- Bluetooth 5.0 with 33-foot range
- RGB lighting with customizable colors
- AUX, optical, and USB inputs
- Voice enhancement mode
- Remote and touch controls
The Yovance RGB Soundbar stands out with its vibrant RGB lighting, making it a favorite for gamers and tech enthusiasts. Its 50W output delivers loud, clear audio, and the voice enhancement mode ensures dialogue cuts through during busy scenes. Bluetooth 5.0 offers a strong connection, and the optical input provides high-quality audio from modern TVs. The touch controls add a modern flair.
Pros:
Loud and clear for small rooms
Fun RGB lighting for gaming setups
Multiple control options
Cons:
Lighting may distract during movies
Bass is modest
Best For: Gamers or younger users who want a stylish, feature-packed soundbar.
4. Pyle PSBV200BT Soundbar
Price: Check Prices in Amazon
Key Features:
- 2.0-channel audio with 30W output
- Bluetooth streaming
- Optical, AUX, and RCA inputs
- Built-in FM radio
- Wall-mountable design
- Remote control included
The Pyle PSBV200BT is a feature-rich soundbar with a unique twist: an integrated FM radio for casual listening. Its 2.0-channel setup delivers clear stereo sound, and the 30W output is ample for small spaces. The wall-mountable design saves space, and the optical input ensures compatibility with newer TVs. Bluetooth streaming makes it easy to play music from your phone.
Pros:
FM radio adds versatility
Wall-mount option for sleek setups
Solid connectivity options
Cons:
Bass lacks punch
FM radio reception varies
Best For: Users who want a multi-purpose soundbar for TV and radio listening.
5. Assistrust 2.1 Soundbar with Subwoofer
Price: Check Prices in Amazon
Key Features:
- 2.1-channel audio with wired subwoofer
- 40W total output
- Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
- AUX, optical, and HDMI ARC inputs
- Four sound modes (movie, music, voice, news)
- 16-inch soundbar with compact subwoofer
The Assistrust 2.1 Soundbar is a rare find under $50, offering a wired subwoofer for deeper bass. Its four sound modes let you tweak the audio for different content—voice mode is great for talk-heavy shows, while movie mode enhances effects. The 40W output fills small rooms, and HDMI ARC support simplifies control with your TV remote. The subwoofer adds a cinematic touch without taking up much space.
Pros:
Subwoofer boosts bass significantly
HDMI ARC for modern TVs
Customizable sound modes
Cons:
Subwoofer requires extra wiring
Setup is slightly more complex
Best For: Movie lovers who crave richer bass on a tight budget.
How to Pick the Perfect Soundbar for You
Choosing the right soundbar depends on your setup and preferences. Here’s a quick guide:
Small Spaces: The Vanzon or Wohome models are compact and wireless, ideal for dorms or tiny apartments.
Gaming Enthusiasts: The Yovance’s RGB lighting and loud output make it perfect for immersive gaming.
Movie Buffs: The Assistrust 2.1 with its subwoofer delivers the bass needed for action films.
Casual Viewers: The Pyle PSBV200BT offers versatility with FM radio and wall-mounting for everyday use.
Consider your room size, TV type, and primary use (TV shows, gaming, music). Check user reviews on platforms like Amazon or tech forums for real-world insights.
Setting Up Your Soundbar for Maximum Impact
A great soundbar can fall flat without proper setup. Follow these steps to optimize performance:
Positioning: Place the soundbar directly under your TV, aligned with the center of the screen. Avoid enclosing it in a cabinet, as this muffles sound.
Connectivity: Use optical or HDMI ARC for the best audio quality. For older TVs, AUX or RCA cables are reliable. Test Bluetooth for streaming from your phone.
Sound Tweaks: If your soundbar has modes, experiment to find the best fit—e.g., “movie” for films, “voice” for news. Adjust bass and treble if controls are available.
Volume Sync: Match the soundbar’s volume to your TV’s for smooth control via your TV remote.
Subwoofer Placement (if included): Position the subwoofer on the floor near the TV, but avoid corners to prevent overly boomy bass.
What to Expect from a $50 Soundbar
Budget soundbars have limitations, but they still outperform TV speakers. Here’s what to keep in mind:
No Advanced Formats: Dolby Atmos or DTS:X aren’t supported, though some models downmix these formats to stereo.
Modest Bass: Without a subwoofer, bass is limited. The Assistrust 2.1 is an exception.
Basic Materials: Expect plastic builds, but well-designed models avoid rattling or distortion.
Simulated Surround: These soundbars mimic surround sound, not true 5.1 or 7.1.
Despite these trade-offs, the picks above deliver impressive value, making them excellent starter options.
Pro Tips to Enhance Your Soundbar Experience
Maximize your investment with these hacks:
Stream Smart: Pair your soundbar with a streaming device like a Fire Stick or Chromecast for high-quality audio from Netflix or Spotify.
Plan for Upgrades: If you love your budget soundbar, save for a $100-$200 model later for features like wireless subwoofers or Dolby Atmos.
Keep It Clean: Dust can degrade sound quality. Wipe your soundbar with a microfiber cloth every few months.
Test Across Content: Play movies, music, and games to fine-tune settings for each.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can a $50 soundbar really improve my TV audio?
A: Absolutely! These soundbars offer clearer dialogue, better stereo separation, and louder output than most TV speakers, making them a worthwhile upgrade.
Q: Do I need a subwoofer for good sound?
A: Not necessarily. Standalone soundbars like the Vanzon or Wohome deliver decent sound for small rooms. A subwoofer, like in the Assistrust 2.1, adds bass for movies or music.
Q: What’s the best way to connect my soundbar to my TV?
A: Optical or HDMI ARC provides the best audio quality. If unavailable, use AUX or RCA cables for reliable performance.
Q: Are these soundbars good for music?
A: Yes, especially models with Bluetooth like the Yovance or Vanzon. Music mode (if available) optimizes mids and highs for songs.
Q: Can I mount these soundbars on the wall?
A: Some, like the Pyle PSBV200BT, are wall-mountable. Check product specs and ensure you have the right hardware.
Conclusion
You don’t need to spend hundreds to enjoy better TV audio. Soundbars under $50, like the Vanzon’s wireless versatility or the Assistrust’s bass-heavy 2.1 setup, prove that affordable audio can still pack a punch. By choosing a model that matches your needs, setting it up thoughtfully, and tweaking its settings, you can transform your home entertainment without stretching your budget.
Whether you’re upgrading a dorm TV, enhancing a gaming setup, or bringing movies to life, these soundbars deliver impressive performance for the price. Pick one of our top recommendations, plug it in, and rediscover your favorite content with sound that’s clear, vibrant, and immersive.