Buying guide: how to choose a soundbar

A soundbar is chosen on its power output, the depth of its bass, its HDMI connectivity and the power of its speakers. These four criteria separate a basic TV accessory from a real home cinema system.

What to check

Overall sound power This criterion measures the power delivered by the whole soundbar, expressed in RMS watts. The higher it is, the greater the available volume, especially in larger rooms. Across recent market listings, values range from a low end around 41 W to a high end close to 780 W, with a median near 360 W. The site’s score places each model against these benchmarks: a high score signals a soundbar capable of filling a spacious living room without strain. Market median: 360 W

Bass depth This criterion measures the weight of the subwoofer, an indicator of its ability to produce deep, present bass. A heavier subwoofer generally delivers a stronger low frequency response, useful for action films or music. Market benchmarks range from around 3,350 g for the lightest units to nearly 9,800 g for the heaviest, with a median around 5,700 g. A high score on this criterion points to more noticeable bass, to be weighed against the intended use. Market median: 5,700 g

Number of HDMI ports This criterion counts the number of HDMI ports available for connecting a television, console or player. The more there are, the more simultaneous connections are possible without unplugging one device to plug in another. Most soundbars on the market offer just one port, with a median of 1, while the best equipped offer up to 3. This criterion matters most for anyone with several video sources to connect at once. Market median: 1

Speaker power This criterion measures the power of the soundbar’s own speakers, separate from the subwoofer. The higher it is, the richer and more detailed the rendering of voices, treble and midrange, which matters especially for dialogue and music. Benchmarks range from around 40 W for entry level models to 650 W for the most capable, with a median near 160 W. A high score indicates a soundbar able to deliver clear sound even at moderate volume. Market median: 160 W

Setup and placement Most soundbars sit simply in front of or below the screen, with no mandatory mounting, though some offer wall mounting. The subwoofer, often separate and wireless, can be placed freely in the room depending on available space. Connection is made through the HDMI ports or a wireless link depending on the devices involved. It is worth checking the location of sockets before buying, and allowing enough space for the subwoofer if the chosen model includes a bulky one.

Benchmarks based on 30 recent market listings, collected on 1 October 2026.

What you get for each budget

Under €400

At this level, models show power and speaker output close to the lower values recorded on the market, usually with a single HDMI port.

€400 to €700

This tier gathers soundbars with characteristics close to the median, often with a stronger bass unit and sometimes a second HDMI port.

Over €700

Beyond that, the most capable setups appear, with deep bass, high powered speakers and several HDMI ports.

Frequent mistakes

Choosing solely on advertised power without checking the speakers’ own power, which drives sound clarity.

Overlooking the number of HDMI ports when several devices need to be connected at once.

Underestimating the space needed for a bulky subwoofer before buying.

Comparing soundbars without considering the size of the room to be filled.

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Choose by use

Guide written from measurements collected on the market and from our price records. No merchant is involved in its content.