I tested 10 different budget TV speakers without HDMI over the past 90 days, and the results surprised me. Modern TVs ship with paper-thin speakers that struggle to fill a bedroom, and the assumption is you need HDMI ARC to fix that. You don’t.
After connecting these speakers to three different legacy TVs in our test lab (a 2014 Samsung, a 2017 TCL, and a 2020 Insignia without HDMI ARC), I found excellent options that connect through optical, AUX, RCA, or Bluetooth. This guide covers the best budget TV speakers without HDMI I could find, ranked by what actually matters when you’re stuck with an older TV or just don’t want to deal with HDMI handshakes.
If you’re shopping for TV deals or upgrading audio alongside a new screen, we tested everything from $27.99 compact soundbars to $98 Sony options that skip HDMI entirely. Every pick below worked in our test setup without needing HDMI ARC.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Budget TV Speakers Without HDMI in 2026
These three represent the sweet spot for budget TV audio without HDMI. The Saiyin compact soundbar handles most setups, the bookshelf pair delivers real stereo separation, and the Majority Bowfell gives you every connection type you might need for older TVs.
Best Budget TV Speakers Without HDMI in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Saiyin 11.7-inch Sound Bar |
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| Saiyin Powered Bookshelf Speakers |
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| Majority Bowfell Soundbar |
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 Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar |
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 Amazon Fire TV Soundbar |
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 LONPOO 60W Bookshelf Speakers |
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 RIOWOIS 17-inch Sound Bar |
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 Saiyin Ultra Compact 17-inch Sound Bar |
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 1Mii B06TX Bluetooth Transmitter |
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 MZEIBO 50W Sound Bar |
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1. Saiyin 11.7-inch Sound Bar – Best Budget Pick
Saiyin 11.7-inch Sound Bar, Small Size & Big Power, Center-Channel Speakers
48W peak power
Bluetooth 5.3, Optical, AUX inputs
Sub Out for external subwoofer
Pros
- Compact 11.7-inch size fits anywhere
- Clear voice/dialogue enhancement mode
- Three connection options including optical
- Sub Out port for adding bass
- Easy 5-minute setup
Cons
- Limited bass due to small driver size
- Instructions could be clearer
- Bluetooth mode can have quirks
I connected this Saiyin to our 2014 Samsung test TV using the optical cable (no HDMI involved) and the difference was immediate. Dialogue that was previously muffled became crisp, and the 48W peak power filled my 12×12 bedroom easily.
The 11.7-inch length is genuinely tiny. It slipped under my TV stand without blocking the screen’s IR sensor, which matters more than specs suggest. Bluetooth 5.3 paired in under 10 seconds with both my phone and tablet for music streaming.
The voice enhancement mode is the standout feature here. Watching a British crime drama with heavy accents, I could finally understand whispered dialogue without cranking the volume to wake the neighbors. For the under $30 price range, this punches well above its weight.
Setup took about 4 minutes using the optical cable. The remote is basic but functional. I tested it across movies, music streaming, and gaming through an Xbox, and it handled all three without complaint.
The Sub Out port is a smart addition. While the built-in bass is limited (expected at this size), you can connect a powered subwoofer later if you want more rumble. Reviewers on Amazon consistently mention this as a major reason they chose it over similarly priced competitors.
Who this is best for
Apartment dwellers, bedroom TV setups, or anyone with limited room who needs dialogue clarity above all else. It also works as a computer speaker if you want one device doing double duty.
Who should skip it
Movie lovers wanting theater-level bass, or anyone with a large open living room. The 48W peak is honest for the size but won’t rattle walls.
2. Saiyin Powered Bookshelf Speakers – Best Stereo Pair
Saiyin Powered Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
30W x 2 stereo
3.75-inch woofer
Bluetooth 5.3, Optical, RCA, AUX inputs
Pros
- Real stereo separation with dedicated left/right speakers
- Built-in amplifier no receiver needed
- Optical and RCA inputs for older TVs
- Strong bass response for size
- Remote with multiple EQ modes
Cons
- Treble can be lacking for audiophiles
- Bass may overpower without EQ adjustment
- LED lights are bright
These bookshelf speakers transformed our 2017 TCL test setup. Unlike a single soundbar, you get genuine left-right stereo separation. Watching a concert recording felt like being there, with instruments positioned across the soundstage.
The active speaker pair means no amplifier needed. The right speaker houses the amp and connects to power, while the left speaker uses the included speaker wire. I had them running in under 10 minutes.
Optical input worked perfectly with our TCL’s optical output. The RCA inputs are a lifesaver for truly old TVs that only have red/white analog outputs. I tested with a 2010 Vizio we had lying around and it connected without issues.
For TV audio upgrade projects, the multiple input options are critical. You can run optical from your TV and still have Bluetooth available for phone streaming. Switching between inputs is one button press on the remote.
The 3.75-inch woofer delivers more bass than I expected. Movie explosions had weight without being muddy. The Movie EQ mode added extra warmth, while Music mode tightened things up for streaming playlists.
Who this is best for
Anyone wanting real stereo imaging, music listeners who also watch TV, and people with shelf space for two speakers. The included speaker wire is short, so plan placement accordingly.
Who should skip it
Minimalists wanting a single bar solution, or renters who can’t place two separate speakers. The bright LED indicator on the front is also distracting in dark rooms.
3. Majority Bowfell 15-inch Soundbar – Best Slim Design
Majority 15 Inch White Soundbar for TV, Bluetooth Sound Bar 50 Watts, Home Audio Speaker, Small PC Soundbar Speaker | AUX, RCA, Optical, USB | Gaming, Music, Movies | Bowfell
50W output
15-inch slim white design
Bluetooth, AUX, RCA, Optical, USB inputs
Pros
- Slim 15-inch white design fits any decor
- Five input options including USB playback
- Includes RCA and AUX cables in box
- Easy tabletop or wall mount setup
- Remote control included
Cons
- Bluetooth connectivity can be unreliable
- Sound quality is basic not audiophile
- Not suitable for large rooms
The Majority Bowfell stands out for one reason: it has every connection type you might need. I counted five different inputs on the back panel (Bluetooth, Optical, AUX, RCA, USB) which makes it ideal for the truly ancient TV sitting in your guest room.
The white finish is refreshing. Most budget soundbars ship in basic black. If your room has white walls or light furniture, this blends in instead of looking like an alien artifact.
Setup was plug-and-play with our 2014 Samsung. The included RCA cable meant I could test analog connection immediately. Optical worked too, with no HDMI needed for full functionality.
The 50W rating is honest for the size. It filled our 14×14 test room without strain but wouldn’t be ideal for a 25-foot living room. Bass boost mode added some rumble for action movies.
Forum users on Reddit’s r/Soundbars mention this is one of the few sub-$40 options with both optical and RCA. That dual-input approach makes it versatile for users who aren’t sure what their TV supports.
Who this is best for
People with truly old TVs (pre-2010) that might only have RCA outputs, anyone wanting a non-black color option, and budget shoppers who want every connection type covered.
Who should skip it
Audio purists wanting detailed sound, or anyone planning to use Bluetooth primarily. The 3.9 average rating reflects some reliability complaints about wireless connectivity.
4. Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar – Best Brand Reliability
Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar with Bass Reflex Speaker, Integrated Tweeter and Bluetooth, (HTS100F), easy setup, compact, home office use with clear sound black
120W output
Bass Reflex speaker
S-Force Pro Front Surround
Voice enhancement
Pros
- Sony build quality and reliability
- S-Force Pro creates virtual surround effect
- Voice enhancement mode for clear dialogue
- Bluetooth streaming with 10m range
- Wall-mountable design
Cons
- Bass present but not powerful
- HDMI cable not included for ARC users
- Can have HDMI handshake issues
The Sony S100F is the safe choice. After testing all 10 speakers, the Sony brand reliability stood out. With over 9,000 reviews and a 4.2 average, this is the most purchased option on our list for good reason.
The S-Force Pro Front Surround technology genuinely works. It creates a wider soundstage than the physical bar suggests. For TV watching in a small room, the immersion is impressive without rear speakers.
I tested it via Bluetooth from my phone (no HDMI needed) and the audio quality was noticeably cleaner than the budget Saiyin models. Sony’s tuning emphasizes clarity over bass, which suits dialogue-heavy content perfectly.
Voice enhancement mode is a highlight. I watched a quiet indie film and could hear every word without maxing the volume. The remote gives quick access to sound modes.
The 9160 reviews on Amazon confirm what our testing showed: this is a workhorse that just works. If you want to set it and forget it, Sony delivers that consistency. The wall-mount kit is included.
Who this is best for
Buyers prioritizing brand reliability and long-term support, people who watch lots of dialogue-heavy content (news, dramas, talk shows), and anyone wanting a slim profile from a recognized audio brand.
Who should skip it
Bass-heads wanting room-shaking low end, or buyers strictly avoiding HDMI (this model does include HDMI ARC alongside Bluetooth).
5. Amazon Fire TV Soundbar – Best for Fire TV Owners
Amazon Fire TV Soundbar, 2.0 speaker with DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Audio, Bluetooth connectivity
DTS Virtual:X
Dolby Audio
2.0 channel
Bluetooth streaming
Pros
- Seamless Fire TV integration
- DTS Virtual:X for 3D surround effect
- Dialogue mode for clearer speech
- Easy 2-cable setup
- Compact 24-inch design
Cons
- Limited bass no subwoofer
- Volume adjusts in increments of 2
- Only 2.0 channel
If you own a Fire TV, this soundbar is a no-brainer. I paired it with a Fire TV Stick 4K Max and the integration was flawless. One remote controls everything, and the soundbar powers on automatically with your TV.
DTS Virtual:X creates a convincing surround effect without rear speakers. While not true Dolby Atmos, the widening effect is noticeable during movies. Explosions and ambient sounds had more dimension than the built-in TV speakers could ever produce.
The dialogue mode is purpose-built for TV watching. News anchors and podcast-style shows sounded dramatically clearer. For older viewers or anyone with hearing difficulties, this mode alone justifies the purchase.
The 24-inch length is wider than typical compact bars. It fit perfectly under our 43-inch test TV. Bluetooth connectivity worked for music streaming from phones without HDMI involvement.
Forum members on Reddit’s r/FireTV consistently recommend this as the first upgrade for new Fire TV owners. The 6626 reviews and 4.3 average reflect solid user satisfaction.
Who this is best for
Fire TV ecosystem users who want simple one-remote control, apartment dwellers needing compact audio, and anyone prioritizing dialogue clarity for streaming content.
Who should skip it
Users without Fire TV (the integration advantage is wasted), bass enthusiasts, and people wanting physical Atmos speakers.
6. LONPOO 60W Bookshelf Speakers – Best Sound Quality
LONPOO 60W Powered Bookshelf Speakers HiFi Stereo Sound for TV/PC/Turntable
60W output
4-inch glass woofer
1-inch silk tweeter
Bluetooth 5.3, Optical, AUX, RCA
Pros
- Excellent sound quality for the price
- Multiple connectivity options
- Built-in amplifier no receiver needed
- Clear bass and detailed highs
- Easy input switching
Cons
- May not satisfy audiophile expectations
- LED light cannot be turned off
The LONPOO pair earned the highest rating (4.5) in our test group, and the audio quality backs it up. The 4-inch woven glass fiber woofer delivers bass that genuinely competes with more expensive options.
I tested these with a lossless music stream and was impressed by the detail retrieval. Acoustic guitar strings had texture, vocals sat clearly in the mix, and bass lines stayed controlled without bleeding into the mids.
The built-in amplifier is a major convenience. You don’t need a separate receiver or amp. Just plug into power, connect to your TV via optical or RCA, and play.
Optical connection worked perfectly with our test TCL TV. The AUX and RCA inputs gave us flexibility for older devices. Bluetooth 5.3 paired instantly for wireless streaming.
Reviewers consistently praise the value proposition. At under $85, getting this level of audio quality from a powered bookshelf pair is hard to beat. The 2-year warranty adds confidence.
Who this is best for
Listeners who care about sound quality above all else, music lovers who also want TV audio, and anyone with shelf space for a proper stereo pair. The DSP tuning handles music and movies equally well.
Who should skip it
People wanting a single bar solution, or those sensitive to LED lights in dark rooms. The always-on indicator can’t be disabled.
7. RIOWOIS 17-inch Sound Bar – Best for Fire TV Remote
RIOWOIS 17″ Sound Bar, Home Theater Surround Sound System for TV
17-inch compact design
DSP 3 sound modes
Bluetooth 5.3, Optical, AUX
Fire TV remote compatible
Pros
- Compatible with Fire TV remote directly
- Great value for the price
- Multiple input options
- Compact wall-mountable design
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Some users report intermittent AUX issues
- Bluetooth may have occasional crackling
- Not suited as main home theater
What makes the RIOWOIS special is Fire TV remote compatibility out of the box. I tested it with a Fire TV Stick and the volume buttons worked immediately, no programming needed.
The 17-inch design hits a sweet spot. It’s compact enough for small TVs but wide enough to produce decent stereo separation. Wall mounting kit is included.
DSP technology provides three distinct sound modes. Movie mode added surround-like warmth, Music mode tightened the soundstage, and News mode boosted dialogue frequencies. Each made a noticeable difference.
Setup took about 3 minutes using optical. The bass reflex port design adds some low-end presence despite the compact size.
The 4744 reviews and 4.1 average rating show consistent user satisfaction. Forum users on Reddit mention this as a hidden gem for Fire TV setups on a budget.
Who this is best for
Fire TV owners wanting a single-remote solution, apartment dwellers needing a compact bar, and anyone wanting a long warranty (5 years is exceptional at this price).
Who should skip it
People wanting premium audio quality or using it as a primary home theater. Best suited for secondary TVs or bedroom setups.
8. Saiyin Ultra Compact 17-inch Sound Bar – Best Space Saver
Saiyin Sound Bar for Smart TV,Ultra Compact Design,3 Equalizer Modes
Ultra-compact 17-inch design
40W output
3 EQ modes
Bluetooth 5.3, Optical, AUX
Pros
- Ultra-compact size won't block TV sensor
- Great sound quality for the price
- Easy plug-and-play setup
- Compatible with Fire TV remote
- Clear dialogue enhancement
Cons
- Some users report defective units after short use
- Volume can be grainy at low levels
- May mute completely at very low volume
The Saiyin DS6301 is the smallest soundbar in our test that still delivers meaningful audio improvement. At 17 inches wide and only 2 inches tall, it disappears under your TV without blocking the IR sensor.
I tested it with a TV mounted close to the wall where taller soundbars would have created clearance issues. The slim profile solved the problem completely.
Optical input connected immediately. The 3 EQ modes (Music, Movie, News) gave audible differences across content types. The SUB OUT port lets you add an external subwoofer later if desired.
At 2 pounds, this is genuinely portable. I moved it between rooms during testing without hassle.
Reviewers on Amazon consistently mention the compact size as the main selling point. The 4.2 average across 567 reviews reflects solid user satisfaction for the price.
Who this is best for
Anyone with limited shelf or wall space, users with wall-mounted TVs needing clearance, and people wanting a portable speaker that moves between rooms easily.
Who should skip it
Anyone needing powerful bass, or people who watch in large rooms. This is built for small to medium spaces.
9. 1Mii B06TX Bluetooth Transmitter – Best Adapter Solution
1Mii B06TX Bluetooth 5.3 Transmitter for TV to 2 Wireless Headphone/Speaker
Bluetooth 5.3 transmitter
aptX Low Latency
Optical, Coaxial, AUX, RCA inputs
Pros
- Makes any TV Bluetooth-enabled
- Connects 2 headphones/speakers simultaneously
- Excellent range with dual antennas
- aptX Low Latency for no lip-sync delay
- Auto power on/off with TV
Cons
- Initial volume may be very high
- No display for connection status
- Bluetooth latency without aptX headphones
The 1Mii B06TX isn’t a speaker, it’s a solution. This tiny box turns any TV into a Bluetooth transmitter. Pair it with Bluetooth headphones or speakers and you’ve added wireless audio to a TV with no HDMI or Bluetooth support.
I tested it with a 2012 Panasonic TV that had zero Bluetooth. Connected via optical, paired with a Bluetooth speaker, and got wireless audio without HDMI. Game changer for truly old TVs.
The dual antenna design provides impressive range. I walked to the opposite end of my house (about 40 feet through two walls) and the audio stayed clean. aptX Low Latency kept lip-sync in check when using compatible headphones.
Optical, Coaxial, AUX, and RCA inputs cover any TV output type. If your TV has audio out in any form, this adapter can use it.
With 7709 reviews and a 4.1 average, this is the most popular Bluetooth transmitter on Amazon. Forum users consistently recommend it for adding wireless audio to older TVs without HDMI ARC.
Who this is best for
Owners of truly old TVs without Bluetooth, people who want wireless headphones for late-night TV watching, and anyone needing to connect two Bluetooth devices to one TV simultaneously.
Who should skip it
Users who already have working TV speakers or those needing a traditional soundbar. This is specifically an adapter for wireless solutions.
10. MZEIBO 50W Sound Bar – Best Power Output
MZEIBO Sound Bar,50W for Smart TV Bluetooth 5.3 Speaker 17 Inch TV Speaker with ARC/Optical/AUX Connections
50W output
360-degree surround sound
3 sound modes
HDMI ARC, Optical, AUX, Bluetooth 5.3
Pros
- Powerful 50W audio output
- Excellent sound quality for the price
- Multiple connectivity options including HDMI ARC
- Easy setup with auto-connect
- Compact 17-inch design
Cons
- Bluetooth may have occasional choppy audio on some TVs
- Some users prefer larger sound bars for bigger rooms
The MZEIBO delivered the highest rating in our test group at 4.6 stars across 324 reviews. The 50W output is honest, and it filled our 16×16 test room with clean, loud audio.
360-degree surround sound is a marketing claim that actually delivered in testing. The soundstage extended beyond the physical bar dimensions, creating an immersive experience for movies and games.
Three sound modes (Music, Movie, News) each made meaningful differences. Movie mode added bass weight and surround widening. News mode boosted midrange for dialogue. Music mode flattened the response for accurate playback.
Optical and AUX connections worked perfectly without HDMI. The Bluetooth 5.3 connection paired in seconds for wireless streaming.
The 36-month warranty is exceptional at this price point. Most competitors offer 1 year. Reviewers mention responsive customer service when issues arise.
Who this is best for
Buyers wanting maximum power output in a compact form, medium to large room setups, and anyone wanting a longer warranty for peace of mind. Great for gaming setups too.
Who should skip it
People wanting audiophile-grade detail retrieval, or those who only need minimal audio boost. This is overkill for very small rooms.
Buying Guide: What to Know About Budget TV Speakers Without HDMI?
After 90 days of testing, here’s what actually matters when choosing budget TV speakers without HDMI. The connection type is the most important factor, followed by room size and how you use your TV.
Connection Types Explained
Optical (TOSLINK): Digital audio connection that most TVs from 2010 onward have. Carries 5.1 surround sound and is the most reliable non-HDMI option. Uses a fiber optic cable (usually included).
3.5mm AUX: The headphone jack connection. Every TV made in the last 20 years has one of these. Quality is limited to stereo, but compatibility is universal.
RCA (Red/White): Analog stereo connection found on older TVs. If your TV is pre-2010, this might be your only option besides the headphone jack.
Bluetooth: Wireless connection available on most TVs made after 2015. Convenient but can have lip-sync issues. The 1Mii adapter solves this for older TVs.
What to Look for in a Budget TV Speaker
Power output (watts) determines volume capability. 30-50W handles small to medium rooms. Under 30W is fine for bedrooms or desktops.
Driver size affects bass response. Anything under 3 inches won’t produce meaningful bass. The bookshelf speakers (3.75 to 4 inch woofers) deliver the best low-end in this price range.
EQ modes let you tune the sound for different content. Movie, Music, and News modes are common. Each makes a real difference for its intended content.
Remote control is essential. Getting up to adjust settings on a soundbar defeats the convenience factor. All picks here include remotes.
Matching Speakers to Your TV
For TVs with optical output (2010+ models): Any speaker here works via optical cable. This is the cleanest digital connection.
For TVs with only headphone jack (older or simpler models): Look for AUX input. The Saiyin models and Sony all support this.
For TVs with only RCA outputs (pre-2010): The Majority Bowfell includes RCA cables. The LONPOO bookshelf speakers also have RCA inputs.
For TVs with no audio output at all: Consider the 1Mii Bluetooth transmitter connected to a separate Bluetooth speaker. This is the universal adapter solution.
Setup Tips from Our Testing
Always check your TV’s audio output settings. Many TVs default to internal speakers and need to be manually switched to external/optical output.
Optical cables are sometimes finicky. If you get no sound, unplug and reseat both ends. The red light should be visible at one end when active.
For Bluetooth connections, the first pairing usually takes longer than subsequent connections. Don’t panic if it takes 15-20 seconds initially.
Soundbars work best centered under or above your TV. Bookshelf speakers should be placed equidistant from your listening position for proper stereo imaging.
If you’re shopping for related gear, our guides on best Bluetooth speakers and best bookshelf speakers cover more options in those categories.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to connect speakers to TV without HDMI?
Connect via optical cable (most TVs 2010+), 3.5mm AUX headphone jack, RCA red/white analog outputs, or Bluetooth. Match your TV’s available output to the speaker’s input. Optical gives the best quality, AUX is most universal, RCA works on oldest TVs, and Bluetooth requires either a built-in TV transmitter or an adapter like the 1Mii B06TX.
Can I use a soundbar if my TV doesn’t have HDMI ARC?
Yes, absolutely. Modern soundbars connect via optical, AUX, RCA, or Bluetooth without needing HDMI ARC. Many budget soundbars skip HDMI entirely and focus on these alternative connections. The Saiyin, Sony, Amazon Fire TV Soundbar, and MZEIBO options in this guide all work without HDMI ARC.
What are the best affordable speakers for my TV?
For under $30, the Saiyin 11.7-inch soundbar delivers clear dialogue. The Saiyin Bookshelf Speakers at under $70 give real stereo separation. Under $100, the MZEIBO 50W soundbar offers the best power and a 4.6-star rating. All three work without HDMI via optical, AUX, or Bluetooth connections.
What if my TV doesn’t have HDMI ARC or Optical?
Use the 3.5mm AUX headphone jack, which exists on virtually all TVs. For RCA-only TVs (pre-2010), choose a speaker with RCA inputs like the Majority Bowfell or LONPOO bookshelf speakers. If your TV has no audio outputs at all, add a Bluetooth transmitter like the 1Mii B06TX to enable wireless audio from any Bluetooth speaker or headphones.
How do I connect my soundbar to my TV without HDMI ARC?
Step 1: Check what audio outputs your TV has (optical, AUX headphone jack, RCA, or Bluetooth). Step 2: Choose a soundbar with a matching input. Step 3: Connect the appropriate cable. Step 4: Go to your TV’s audio settings and switch the output from internal speakers to external/optical. Step 5: Test with different content and adjust EQ modes if available.
Final Verdict: Which Budget TV Speaker Without HDMI Should You Buy?
After 90 days of testing, the Saiyin 11.7-inch Sound Bar remains our top pick for most people. It works without HDMI via optical or AUX, delivers clear dialogue, costs under $30, and has a 4.2-star rating across 1,047 reviews.
For real stereo separation, the Saiyin Bookshelf Speakers at $69.99 are unbeatable value. The optical, RCA, and AUX inputs cover any TV situation. The LONPOO pair steps up sound quality if your budget allows.
If you’re dealing with a truly ancient TV with no modern outputs, the 1Mii B06TX Bluetooth Transmitter is the adapter solution that solves everything. Combined with any Bluetooth output device, it makes any TV wireless-ready without HDMI.
The MZEIBO 50W Sound Bar wins for power and overall rating (4.6 stars), making it the best choice for medium to large rooms. The Sony S100F is the safe pick for buyers prioritizing brand reliability.
For more TV upgrade ideas, check our best 75-inch TV deals and best smart speakers guides. Every speaker in this roundup was tested with real TVs and delivers audio improvement without needing HDMI.