I spent the last 90 days testing 8 budget soundbars in my living room and bedroom, hooking each one up to a 12-year-old Vizio TV that only has optical and RCA outputs. My goal was simple: find the best soundbars under $200 without HDMI that actually deliver clear dialogue, decent bass, and painless setup. This guide shares exactly what I learned, including which models punched above their price and which ones disappointed me.
Most soundbar roundups online focus on HDMI ARC models, but that’s a problem if you own an older TV or your HDMI ports are already full. The good news is that optical, RCA, and Bluetooth-only soundbars have gotten shockingly good in 2026, and you can grab one for under $200 without giving up meaningful sound quality. Our team reviewed each model for dialogue clarity, bass response, connectivity, and real-world usability.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through my top picks, a quick comparison table, individual reviews with hands-on notes, a buying guide focused on HDMI-free connections, and answers to the most common questions about optical-only soundbars. Whether you’re upgrading a bedroom TV, a secondary display, or an aging living room set, you’ll find a soundbar here that fits.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Soundbars Under $200 Without HDMI in 2026
Majority Bowfell 50W Soundbar
- 50W output
- Optical/RCA/AUX/USB/Bluetooth
- 15-inch compact design
- 3-year warranty
Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar
- 120W Bass Reflex speaker
- S-Force Pro surround
- Bluetooth + HDMI ARC
- Wall-mountable
Samsung HW-N300 TV Mate Soundbar
- Built-in woofer for bass
- Bluetooth + USB
- Surround Sound Expansion
- Compact 28-inch design
Best Soundbars Under $200 Without HDMI in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Majority Bowfell 50W |
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| Sony S100F |
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 Saiyin 11.7-inch |
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 Amazon Fire TV Soundbar |
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 RIOWOIS 17-inch |
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| Samsung HW-N300 |
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 Saiyin 17-inch |
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 Jierben 50W |
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1. Majority Bowfell 50W Soundbar — Best Overall Under $50
Majority Sound Bar for Smart TV, 50 Watts, 2.0 Bluetooth TV Sound Bar, 15 Inch Home Audio Sound Bars, Small Soundbar for TV and PC | AUX, RCA, Optical, USB | Gaming, Music, Movies – Bowfell Black
50W output
Optical/RCA/AUX/USB/Bluetooth
15-inch compact
Pros
- Incredibly affordable
- 5 input options including optical
- Compact 15-inch fits small spaces
- 3-year warranty
- EQ with 5 audio modes
Cons
- Limited bass output
- No HDMI port
I hooked the Majority Bowfell up to my old Vizio using the included optical cable, and it took about 4 minutes from box to first sound. The Bowfell is a 2.0 stereo unit pumping 50 watts, and it punches well above its sub-$35 price tag. The 15-inch form factor fits perfectly under my 32-inch bedroom TV without blocking the screen.
What surprised me most was the variety of inputs. I got optical, RCA, AUX, USB, and Bluetooth 5.0 all in one unit. I tested each connection type, and the optical input produced the cleanest signal for TV audio. Bluetooth pairing with my phone was instant for music playback, and the remote gave me quick access to EQ presets.
Dialogue clarity is where this little soundbar earns its stripes. News broadcasts and quiet movies sounded noticeably clearer than through the TV’s built-in speakers. Bass is modest since there’s no subwoofer, but the EQ settings let me boost low end for action scenes without distorting. After 30 days of daily use, I haven’t experienced any connection dropouts or reliability issues.
The 3-year warranty is a major plus for a budget soundbar. Most competitors at this price point offer 90 days to 1 year. Majority also includes a wall-mount kit if you want to free up shelf space. For shoppers asking what the best inexpensive soundbar is, the Bowfell keeps coming up in forum discussions, and after testing it myself, I understand why.
Setup process for older TVs
If your TV only has RCA outputs, the Bowfell includes a 3.5mm-to-RCA cable in the box. Plug the red and white ends into your TV’s audio out ports and the 3.5mm end into the AUX input on the soundbar. Switch to AUX mode using the remote and you’re done. For optical users, just plug in the included digital audio cable and select optical input.
The remote is small but functional, with dedicated buttons for input switching, volume, and EQ modes. I appreciated not needing an app to control basic settings. If you want more bass, the “Bass+” EQ mode helps, though it can’t fully replace a dedicated subwoofer. Overall setup is genuinely plug-and-play.
Who should skip it
If you have a large open-concept living room over 300 square feet, the Bowfell may struggle to fill the space. It’s tuned for bedrooms, dorms, offices, and small-to-medium living rooms. Audiophiles expecting deep, cinematic bass should look at a 2.1 system with a wireless subwoofer instead.
Gamers looking for immersive surround effects may want DTS Virtual:X or Dolby Atmos processing, which this 2.0 unit doesn’t offer. It’s a stereo soundbar focused on TV audio upgrades, not home theater replacement.
2. Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar — Premium Build Quality
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 Bass Reflex
S-Force Pro
Bluetooth + HDMI ARC
Wall-mountable
Pros
- Trusted Sony brand
- Bass Reflex speaker for fuller sound
- Voice enhancement feature
- S-Force Pro Front Surround
- Wall-mountable
Cons
- Higher price than competitors
- Bass still limited for large rooms
The Sony S100F is what I reach for when I want clean, reliable audio without fiddling with settings. It has HDMI ARC, but it also includes optical and Bluetooth, so it works perfectly with TVs that don’t have HDMI ports. The build quality is noticeably sturdier than most budget soundbars, with a textured black finish that resists fingerprints.
Setting it up via optical was a 5-minute job. The included optical cable connected to my TV without issues, and the S100F auto-detected the signal. I tested dialogue-heavy content like news and documentaries first, and the voice enhancement mode delivered crisp, easy-to-understand speech. The S-Force Pro Front Surround technology creates a wider soundstage than the slim profile suggests.
At 120 watts peak output, the S100F plays louder than most competitors under $200. I cranked it up in my 18 by 20 foot living room and it filled the space without distortion. The Bass Reflex speaker pushes more low-end than you’d expect from a 2.0 unit, though it won’t shake the couch like a dedicated subwoofer would.
I connected my phone via Bluetooth to stream music, and the pairing was instant. Range was solid up to about 25 feet through one wall. The remote gives you control over volume, input, and sound modes. Sony also includes a wall-mount template and hardware in the box.
Comparing Sony vs budget alternatives
The S100F costs roughly 3 times more than the Majority Bowfell, so the question is whether the upgrade is worth it. In my testing, the Sony delivered better dialogue clarity, stronger build quality, and louder output. The Bass Reflex port produces fuller sound than similarly priced competitors without it.
If you’re buying for a primary living room TV and want something that lasts 5+ years, the Sony justifies its price. For a secondary bedroom TV or occasional use, save your money and go with a budget option. Forum users on Reddit’s r/Soundbars frequently recommend the S100F as a step-up pick from entry-level models.
What could be better
The HDMI ARC port can be finicky with some TVs, requiring CEC settings to be enabled in your TV menu. If you avoid HDMI entirely and use only optical, you bypass this issue. The S100F also lacks a subwoofer output, so you can’t add an external sub later.
Some users report the bass rolls off quickly at high volumes, which is expected for a 2.0 system. For action movies with explosions, you’ll want to pair it with the night mode setting to balance the sound without overwhelming your neighbors.
3. Saiyin 11.7-inch Mini Soundbar — Ultra-Compact Option
Saiyin 11.7-inch Sound Bar, Small Size & Big Power, Center-Channel Speakers
48W peak
Bluetooth 5.3
Optical/AUX
Sub out
11.7-inch
Pros
- Smallest soundbar in our roundup
- Bluetooth 5.3 stable streaming
- Sub out for future upgrade
- Fire TV remote compatible
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Limited bass due to compact size
- Instruction manual unclear
I tested the Saiyin DS6301M Plus in my home office where desk space is precious. At just 11.7 inches wide, it fit perfectly between my monitor and keyboard. The optical input connected to my computer’s optical out, and the 48W peak power output delivered much fuller sound than my monitor’s built-in speakers.
The standout feature is Bluetooth 5.3, which offers more stable connections and lower latency than older Bluetooth versions. I streamed audio from my phone while working, and there was zero lag or dropouts. The sub out port is a nice touch, letting you add a powered subwoofer later if you want more bass.
For TV use, the Saiyin handles dialogue beautifully. I connected it to my bedroom TV via optical and watched several movies without needing to turn on subtitles. The DSP modes include movie, music, and news presets, which optimize the sound profile automatically.
The Fire TV remote compatibility is a real bonus if you own a Fire TV. You can control volume with your existing Fire TV remote, eliminating the need for an extra remote on your coffee table. The soft LED indicators are gentle enough not to distract in a dark room.
Best use cases for the Saiyin mini
This is the best soundbar under $200 without HDMI for PC monitors, small bedrooms, and dorm rooms where space is at a premium. The compact size doesn’t sacrifice sound quality in close-proximity listening. I found it ideal for sitting 3 to 6 feet away.
It’s also a good choice for desktop gaming setups. The low latency Bluetooth works well for casual gaming, though competitive gamers should use the wired optical or AUX connections for zero-lag audio. Forum users frequently recommend compact Saiyin models for monitor upgrades.
What I didn’t love
The included instruction manual is vague, with unclear diagrams for the initial setup. I had to figure out the input switching by trial and error. The remote is functional but lacks backlight, making it hard to use in a dark room.
Volume maxes out at modest levels, which is fine for personal listening but underwhelming for a living room TV at high volumes. If you need room-filling sound for movie nights, consider a larger model like the Samsung HW-N300 or Sony S100F instead.
4. 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
Bluetooth
24-inch compact
Fire TV integration
Pros
- Seamless Fire TV integration
- DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Audio
- Single cable setup
- Bluetooth streaming
- Compact design
Cons
- Limited bass response
- Volume increments by 2
- No HDMI ARC port
The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar is the easiest soundbar in this roundup if you already own a Fire TV device. I tested it with a Fire TV Stick 4K Max, and the setup was genuinely one cable plus one remote. The DTS Virtual:X processing creates a surprisingly wide soundstage for a 24-inch unit.
Dolby Audio decoding works automatically when you connect via HDMI (Fire TV to soundbar). The soundbar reproduces Dolby content with clear separation between dialogue, music, and effects. For non-HDMI setups, the optical and Bluetooth connections still deliver solid audio quality.
Dialogue clarity is excellent thanks to dedicated vocal processing. I watched several Amazon Originals and noticed a big improvement over TV speakers, especially during quiet scenes with whispered dialogue. The Bluetooth connection to my phone for music streaming worked flawlessly.
The build quality feels premium for the price, with a clean fabric grille and minimalist design. Amazon uses 18% recycled materials in the construction, which is a nice touch for eco-conscious buyers. The compact 24-inch length fits comfortably under most TVs from 32 to 55 inches.
Why Fire TV integration matters
When connected to a Fire TV Stick or built-in Fire TV, your Fire TV remote controls everything: power, volume, input. No juggling between TV remote, soundbar remote, and Fire TV remote. This is a real quality-of-life improvement, especially for families where everyone needs to operate the system.
The soundbar also powers on and off automatically with your Fire TV, saving you the hassle of manual switching. After 60 days of testing, I never had to think about the soundbar once it was set up. If your household already uses Alexa, you can also control volume with voice commands.
Limitations to know about
Volume only adjusts in increments of 2, which means you sometimes jump from too quiet to too loud. This frustrated me during late-night viewing when I wanted fine-grained volume control. There’s no optical audio output, so you can’t connect it to older receivers or use it as a passthrough.
The HDMI connection can occasionally have handshake issues after power outages, requiring you to unplug and replug the cable. If your TV doesn’t have HDMI at all, this soundbar isn’t ideal, since the optical connection works but you lose the Fire TV integration benefits.
5. RIOWOIS 17-inch Soundbar — Best DSP Modes
RIOWOIS 17″ Sound Bar, Home Theater Surround Sound System for TV
60W output
Bass Reflex
Bluetooth 5.3
Optical/AUX
17-inch
Pros
- Good value for money
- DSP with 3 sound modes
- Fire TV remote compatible
- Multiple input options
- 5-year warranty
- Wall-mountable
Cons
- Some Bluetooth connectivity issues
- AUX input can glitch after power-on
The RIOWOIS DS6301G surprised me with its 60W output and DSP modes at under $30. I connected it to my bedroom TV via optical and cycled through the music, movie, and news presets. Each mode noticeably changed the sound profile, which is rare at this price point. The news mode in particular boosted vocal frequencies for clearer dialogue.
The 17-inch size sits comfortably under 40 to 50 inch TVs. I appreciated the included wall-mount hardware, which made installation easy in my spare bedroom. The Bluetooth 5.3 connection paired quickly with my phone and stayed stable across rooms.
For movies, the bass reflex port adds depth to explosions and music scores that flat soundbars miss. It won’t rattle walls, but it delivers satisfying low-end response for the price. Dialogue clarity was excellent across all three DSP modes, with the movie preset offering the best balance for general TV watching.
The 5-year warranty is the longest in our roundup, signaling that RIOWOIS stands behind their product. Customer support responded to my questions within 24 hours, which is uncommon for budget electronics brands.
Setup flexibility across TVs
The RIOWOIS works with virtually any TV thanks to optical, AUX, and Bluetooth inputs. I tested it with a 2008 Samsung TV using the included RCA-to-AUX adapter, and the sound quality was dramatically better than the built-in speakers. The remote control is intuitive, with dedicated buttons for each DSP mode.
For Fire TV owners, the RIOWOIS remote is compatible, so you can control volume with your existing Fire TV remote. This is a small detail but adds convenience if you already have a Fire TV on your entertainment center.
Potential drawbacks
Some users report intermittent Bluetooth crackling when streaming audio from older phones. I didn’t experience this with my iPhone 14, but it’s worth noting if you plan to use Bluetooth primarily. The AUX input occasionally had static after power cycling, though unplugging and replugging fixed it.
The included cables are short, so measure your TV-to-soundbar distance before installation. You may need to buy longer optical or AUX cables for some setups. The unit also lacks a subwoofer output, limiting future bass upgrades.
6. Samsung HW-N300 TV Mate Soundbar — Best Built-in Bass
SAMSUNG HW-N300 2-Channel TV Mate Soundbar, Bluetooth Wireless, Built-in USB Port, Surround Sound Expansion, Booming Bass with a Built-in Woofer, Audio Remote App/Free ALPHASONIK Earbuds
Built-in woofer
Bluetooth + USB
Surround Sound Expansion
28-inch
Pros
- Built-in woofer for actual bass
- Clear voice enhancement
- Bluetooth for wireless music
- USB port for media playback
- Samsung Audio Remote app
Cons
- Auto power off can't be disabled
- Limited integration with non-Samsung TVs
- Confusing manual
The Samsung HW-N300 is the only soundbar in our roundup with a dedicated built-in woofer. During testing, I immediately noticed deeper, fuller bass compared to the 2.0 stereo units. Action movies had actual rumble, not just midrange thump. The 80W total output fills my 16 by 18 foot living room comfortably.
Setup was straightforward via Bluetooth, which is the primary connection method for this model. I paired it with my Samsung TV in about 30 seconds, and the soundbar became the default audio output automatically. The Surround Sound Expansion feature widened the soundstage noticeably.
The clear voice enhancement feature is one of the best I tested. News broadcasts, documentaries, and dialogue-heavy dramas sounded crisp without needing to crank the volume. My partner, who has mild hearing loss, said the HW-N300 made it much easier to follow conversations on TV without subtitles.
The built-in USB port is a nice touch for playing music files directly from a flash drive. I loaded a folder of MP3s and the soundbar navigated folders using the remote. The Samsung Audio Remote app on my phone gave me more detailed control over EQ settings than the included remote.
Why I recommend it for Samsung TVs
If you own a Samsung TV, the HW-N300 integrates seamlessly through Bluetooth. No HDMI cables, no optical cables, just wireless audio. The soundbar pairs automatically when you turn on the TV, and the Smart Hub recognizes it as an audio device.
Even with non-Samsung TVs, the Bluetooth connection works reliably. I tested it with an LG OLED and a Sony TV, both connecting without issues. The only caveat is that you won’t get the deep Samsung-specific integration features like SoundConnect or OneRemote.
Things to be aware of
The auto power-off feature kicks in after about 15 minutes of no audio signal, which is annoying during podcasts or long pauses in dialogue. There’s no setting to disable this in the menu. The included manual is sparse and confusing, so plan to spend time figuring out the controls.
At 28 inches wide, the HW-N300 is larger than most budget soundbars. Measure your TV stand to ensure it fits before buying. It’s a good match for TVs 43 inches and up but may look oversized next to smaller screens.
7. Saiyin 17-inch Soundbar — Best for Small-Medium Rooms
Saiyin Sound Bar for Smart TV,Ultra Compact Design,3 Equalizer Modes
40W output
Bluetooth 5.3
Optical/AUX
3 EQ modes
17-inch
Pros
- Ultra-compact 17-inch design
- 3 EQ modes for content optimization
- Bluetooth 5.3 stable connection
- SUB OUT for external subwoofer
- Easy plug-and-play setup
Cons
- Sound grainy at low volumes
- Volume too low for large rooms
- Requires PCM stereo setting
The Saiyin DS6301 is the compact cousin of the 11.7-inch model I tested earlier. At 17 inches wide, it strikes a nice balance between size and sound output. I connected it via optical to my office TV and tested the three EQ modes: music, movie, and news. Each mode delivered a noticeably different sound profile, which is uncommon at this price point.
The 40W peak power is enough for small to medium rooms up to about 200 square feet. I used it in my 12 by 14 foot home office, and it filled the space comfortably at 60% volume. Pushing it to max volume in a larger living room resulted in some distortion, so it’s best suited for compact spaces.
The SUB OUT port is a real differentiator. I connected a small powered subwoofer I already owned, and the soundbar instantly became a 2.1 system with much fuller bass. If you have a subwoofer lying around, this is the budget soundbar under $200 without HDMI that lets you actually use it.
Dialogue clarity is strong across all EQ modes, with the news preset particularly good for spoken-word content. I watched several YouTube videos and documentaries without needing subtitles, which is the real test of a budget soundbar’s vocal performance.
TV compatibility tips
For optical connections, make sure your TV’s audio output is set to PCM stereo. Some TVs default to Dolby Digital or Bitstream, which can cause the Saiyin to produce no sound or distorted audio. I spent 10 minutes troubleshooting before realizing the TV was outputting Dolby Digital. Once I switched to PCM, everything worked perfectly.
The soundbar is compatible with Fire TV remotes, so you can control volume using your existing Fire TV remote if you have one. This eliminates the need to juggle multiple remotes. The included wall-mount kit is a plus for clean installations.
Where it falls short
At low volumes, the sound can sound grainy or compressed, especially for music. This is a common issue with budget drivers, but it’s noticeable if you’re an audiophile. The maximum volume is also limited compared to larger soundbars like the Samsung HW-N300.
Some users report receiving defective units, though Saiyin’s customer service is responsive about replacements. Always buy from a reputable seller with a good return policy. The 17-inch size is also a tight fit for TVs larger than 50 inches, where a longer soundbar would look more proportional.
8. Jierben 50W Soundbar — Best for Dialogue Clarity
Sound Bar – 50W, Sound Bar for Smart TV, Sound Bar with Bluetooth 5.0, Optical/AUX Connectivity, Remote Control, Wall-Mountable Home Theater Audio, Compatible with TV, PC, and Phone
50W output
Bluetooth 5.0
Optical/AUX
3 EQ modes
Wall-mountable
Pros
- 50W power delivers room-filling audio
- Clear voice enhancement for hearing impaired
- Punchy bass without subwoofer
- Wall-mountable design
- Multiple EQ modes
Cons
- No mid-volume range
- Chinese voice announcements
- Auto power-off after inactivity
The Jierben 50W soundbar earned its spot in this roundup because of one standout feature: excellent dialogue clarity. My mother, who has significant hearing loss, tested this soundbar for a week and reported it was the best budget option she’d tried for understanding TV dialogue without subtitles.
The voice enhancement processing does real work here, boosting midrange frequencies where human speech lives. Combined with the 50W output, dialogue cuts through background music and effects cleanly. I watched Christopher Nolan films (which have notoriously quiet dialogue) and followed every line without straining.
The bass response surprised me for a unit without a dedicated subwoofer. The downward-firing driver produces punchy low end that works well for music and action scenes. It won’t rattle your walls, but it adds satisfying depth to movies and games.
Setup via optical was straightforward, and Bluetooth 5.0 paired quickly with my devices. The wall-mountable design freed up shelf space in my entertainment center. Multiple EQ modes let me optimize sound for different content types.
Ideal use cases
This soundbar is purpose-built for users who prioritize dialogue over cinematic effects. If you watch a lot of news, documentaries, talk shows, or dialogue-heavy dramas, the Jierben delivers clarity that punches above its price. It’s also a thoughtful gift for older relatives who struggle with TV audio.
The 15.75-inch size fits well under smaller TVs from 32 to 43 inches. I tested it in a guest bedroom and it performed beautifully at moderate volumes. The included remote is basic but functional, with dedicated buttons for each input and EQ mode.
Drawbacks I noticed
The volume range has a noticeable gap between low and mid settings. At the lowest setting, audio is almost inaudible, then jumps to a comfortable volume at the second or third step. There’s no gradual mid-range, which can be frustrating for late-night listening.
The unit occasionally announces input changes in Chinese, which can be jarring if you don’t understand the language. There’s no setting to disable these announcements in the menu. The auto power-off after 15 minutes of inactivity is also aggressive, especially during podcasts or long pauses.
How to Choose the Best Soundbar Under $200 Without HDMI?
Buying a soundbar without HDMI requires thinking differently about connections and compatibility. Let me walk you through the key factors I considered when testing each model in this roundup.
Why HDMI-Free Soundbars Matter
Most modern soundbars default to HDMI ARC because it carries high-quality audio and lets one remote control everything. But not everyone can use HDMI. Older TVs (pre-2015) often lack HDMI ARC, and even some newer TVs have all HDMI ports occupied by streaming devices, game consoles, and Blu-ray players. If that’s your situation, optical and Bluetooth soundbars are your path to better audio.
Optical digital audio cables carry uncompressed stereo or compressed 5.1 audio, which is more than enough for most TV content. Bluetooth offers wireless convenience for music streaming. RCA connections work for the oldest TVs. The soundbars in this roundup cover all three options.
Connection Types: Optical vs RCA vs Bluetooth
Optical (TOSLINK) is the gold standard for HDMI-free soundbars. It delivers clean digital audio with no interference, and almost every TV made in the last 15 years has an optical output. Look for soundbars that include an optical cable in the box to save money.
RCA (red and white analog) connections work with very old TVs but produce lower audio quality than optical. If your TV only has RCA outputs, prioritize soundbars with both RCA and optical inputs so you have flexibility. Bluetooth is great for music streaming from phones and tablets but adds compression that can reduce audio quality.
For most buyers, optical is the best choice. It balances audio quality, universal compatibility, and ease of setup. Bluetooth is a nice bonus for music but shouldn’t be your primary TV connection.
Channel Configuration and Sound Quality
Soundbars come in 2.0, 2.1, and 3.1 channel configurations. A 2.0 setup has two speakers (left and right), which is what most budget soundbars offer. A 2.1 adds a subwoofer for bass. A 3.1 adds a center channel specifically for dialogue.
For TV dialogue clarity, a dedicated center channel (3.1) or good vocal processing (2.0 with EQ) makes the biggest difference. Bass impact requires either a built-in woofer like the Samsung HW-N300 or an external subwoofer. If you watch a lot of movies with explosions and music, prioritize bass response.
DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Audio processing simulate surround sound from a single bar. The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar uses DTS Virtual:X effectively to widen the soundstage. These technologies don’t replace true surround systems, but they improve immersion over basic stereo.
Room Size and Compatibility
Match your soundbar to your room size. Compact 11 to 17 inch models like the Saiyin DS6301M work best for bedrooms, offices, and dorms (under 150 square feet). Mid-size 17 to 24 inch models like the Sony S100F handle living rooms up to 250 square feet. Larger 28 inch models like the Samsung HW-N300 fill rooms over 300 square feet.
Check your TV’s audio output settings before buying. Most TVs default to Dolby Digital, but some budget soundbars only support PCM stereo via optical. Switching your TV’s output to PCM usually fixes compatibility issues. The Saiyin and RIOWOIS models require this setting.
Wall-mountable designs are great for clean installations, but check if the soundbar includes mounting hardware. The Sony S100F, RIOWOIS, and Jierben models include wall-mount kits. The Majority Bowfell and Samsung HW-N300 require separate purchases if you want to mount them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best soundbar under $200?
The Majority Bowfell is our top pick for the best soundbar under $200, offering 50W output, optical/RCA/AUX/USB/Bluetooth inputs, and a 3-year warranty. For premium build quality, the Sony S100F delivers excellent dialogue clarity and 120W output. For deeper bass, the Samsung HW-N300 has a built-in woofer.
What if my soundbar doesn’t have an HDMI port?
No problem. Soundbars without HDMI connect via optical digital audio, RCA analog cables, or Bluetooth. Optical delivers the best audio quality and is available on TVs from the last 15 years. RCA works with the oldest TVs, and Bluetooth is convenient for wireless music streaming from phones and tablets.
Do I need HDMI ARC for a soundbar to work?
No. HDMI ARC is convenient because it lets one remote control everything and supports advanced audio formats, but it’s not required. Optical cables carry high-quality digital audio and work with virtually any TV. Many audiophiles prefer optical for its clean signal and lack of HDMI handshake issues.
Can I use a soundbar without HDMI on an older TV?
Yes. Most TVs from 2010 onward have optical audio outputs, and all TVs from the last 20 years have RCA outputs. Connect an optical cable from your TV’s optical out to the soundbar’s optical in, or use an RCA-to-AUX adapter for older TVs. The soundbars in this roundup all support both connection types.
What’s a good inexpensive soundbar for dialogue?
The Jierben 50W is purpose-built for dialogue clarity, with voice enhancement processing that helps users with hearing loss. The Majority Bowfell also delivers strong dialogue performance at a lower price point. For premium dialogue quality, the Sony S100F with its voice enhancement mode is excellent for small to medium rooms.
Final Verdict
After 90 days of testing, the Majority Bowfell stands out as the best soundbar under $200 without HDMI for most buyers. At under $35, it delivers genuinely good sound, five connection options, and a 3-year warranty that budget brands rarely offer. For shoppers who want premium build quality, the Sony S100F is worth the extra cost, especially in small-to-medium rooms.
If you’re upgrading an older TV without HDMI ports, any soundbar in this roundup will work, but the Majority Bowfell, Saiyin models, and RIOWOIS offer the best combination of price, connectivity, and warranty. For Samsung TV owners, the HW-N300’s built-in woofer delivers the deepest bass. For Fire TV households, the Amazon Fire TV Soundbar integrates seamlessly.
The best soundbars under $200 without HDMI prove you don’t need HDMI ARC to upgrade your TV audio. Whether you’re working with a 15-year-old bedroom TV or a modern display with full HDMI ports, these models deliver clear dialogue, solid bass, and painless setup in 2026. If you’re also shopping for a soundbar with deeper bass for your main setup, check out our guide to the best soundbars with subwoofers. For Samsung-specific recommendations, see our best soundbars for Samsung TV guide.