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Best Gaming Soundbars in 2023

Reviewed By: Kevin Pocock

Last Updated on May 2, 2023
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A top-notch gaming rig isn’t complete without immersive audio to match. To truly lose yourself in the eerie atmosphere of a horror game or experience the adrenaline rush as bullets whiz by in the heat of battle, you’ll need the best gaming soundbar. In this article, we’ve got you covered with our selection of the best gaming soundbars to elevate your gaming sessions and make them more immersive than ever before. So, buckle up and get ready to discover the perfect audio companion for your gaming adventures!

Products at a Glance

How we Picked the Best gaming soundbar

To compile our list of the best gaming soundbars, we took a comprehensive approach, keeping in mind the casual tone you appreciate. Our selection process started by examining the most popular and highly-rated soundbars on the market. We then dove deep into their features, performance, and customer reviews to identify the top contenders.

We paid close attention to sound quality, connectivity options, design, and value for money to ensure that our recommendations cater to a wide range of gamers with diverse needs and preferences. Additionally, we took note of any unique or standout features that set each soundbar apart from the competition. 

Armed with this information, we narrowed down our list to the absolute best gaming soundbars, ensuring that our selections offer the perfect balance of performance, design, and affordability. With our recommendations in hand, you can confidently choose the best gaming soundbars that’s right for you and your setup.

Our Recommended

Product Reviews

1
PROS
  • Powerful bass response
  • Customizable RGB lights
  • Dolby Virtual Surround Sound
CONS
  • Expensive
  • No HDMI for audio

Our top pick, the Razer Leviathan V2, is a gamer’s dream come true. This compact soundbar delivers powerful audio in a sleek package, making it the perfect addition to any gaming setup. The Leviathan V2 boasts an impressive 5.25-inch downward-firing subwoofer for deep, rumbling bass that’ll make your gaming sessions feel truly immersive. 

Setting up the Razer Leviathan V2 is a breeze, thanks to its range of connectivity options, including Bluetooth, AUX, and optical input. Plus, with its built-in Dolby Virtual Surround Sound technology, you’ll be able to pinpoint in-game sounds with incredible accuracy, giving you a competitive edge in your favorite games.

 

The Razer Leviathan V2’s stylish design, complete with customizable RGB lighting, adds a touch of flair to your gaming space. While it’s not the cheapest soundbar on the market, we believe its performance and features justify the investment, making it our Editor’s Choice.

2
PROS
  • Wireless connectivity
  • Acoustic Beam technology
  • Elegant and space-saving design
CONS
  • Slightly higher price tag
  • Limited customization options

For gamers seeking a clutter-free, wireless audio solution, the Samsung HW-Q60T is our top pick. This sleek soundbar offers Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream audio from your gaming console, PC, or mobile devices without the need for messy cables. In addition, it includes HDMI and optical inputs for those who prefer a wired connection.

The Samsung HW-Q60T features Acoustic Beam technology, which uses an array of speakers to create a more expansive soundstage, delivering a more immersive gaming experience. The included wireless subwoofer adds depth to your audio with its powerful bass, ensuring that you feel every explosion and in-game effect. 

With its elegant design and space-saving form factor, the Samsung HW-Q60T is a stylish and practical addition to any gaming setup. While it may not be the most affordable option, its wireless capabilities and fantastic audio performance make it well worth considering

3
PROS
  • Affordable without compromising on sound quality
  • Dedicated subwoofer for deep bass
  • Multiple connectivity options
CONS
  • Lacks advanced audio features
  • No support for Dolby Atmos or DTS:X
  • Remote control feels a bit flimsy

If you’re on a tighter budget but still want an impressive gaming soundbar, the Creative Stage 2.1 is the one for you. This affordable soundbar comes with a dedicated subwoofer, providing rich audio and deep bass that’ll elevate your gaming experience without breaking the bank.

The Creative Stage 2.1 offers multiple connectivity options, such as Bluetooth, AUX, and optical input, ensuring compatibility with various devices. The included remote control makes it easy to adjust volume, switch between audio modes, and control playback from the comfort of your couch.

Although the Creative Stage 2.1 may lack some of the advanced features found in higher-end soundbars, it more than makes up for it with its excellent sound quality and budget-friendly price tag. For gamers looking for a solid audio solution without spending a fortune, the Creative Stage 2.1 is a top choice.

4
PROS
  • Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
  • Dedicated center speaker
  • Multiple connectivity options
CONS
  • Higher price tag
  • Larger form factor may not suit all gaming setups
  • No customizable RGB lighting

If you’re all about being fully immersed in your gaming world, look no further than the Sony HT-G700. This soundbar excels in delivering an incredibly immersive audio experience, thanks to its support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which creates a 3D audio effect that surrounds you with sound.

The Sony HT-G700 features a dedicated center speaker, ensuring crystal clear dialog and in-game audio, while the wireless subwoofer adds powerful bass for a more engaging gaming experience. Its easy-to-use remote control lets you switch between different sound modes, fine-tuning the audio to match your preferences. 

With multiple connectivity options, including HDMI ARC, optical input, and Bluetooth, you can connect the Sony HT-G700 to a wide range of devices. Although it comes with a higher price tag, its exceptional audio quality and immersive capabilities make it a fantastic choice for gamers who prioritize an all-encompassing audio experience.

Features and Considerations

When you’re on the hunt for the best gaming soundbar, it’s essential to keep a few key features and considerations in mind. First and foremost, sound quality is paramount. Look for a soundbar that delivers rich, clear audio with strong bass and crisp highs. Surround sound capabilities or support for technologies like Dolby Atmos can help create an even more immersive gaming experience.

Connectivity is another crucial aspect to consider. Make sure the soundbar you choose has the necessary inputs to connect to your gaming console or PC, such as HDMI ARC, optical, or Bluetooth. Some soundbars also come with USB ports, which can be useful for charging devices or connecting additional peripherals. 

Size and design matter too, as you’ll want a soundbar that fits seamlessly into your gaming setup. Consider the dimensions of the soundbar and ensure it complements your existing equipment without taking up too much space. 

Lastly, don’t forget to factor in your budget. There’s a wide range of gaming soundbars available at various price points, so it’s essential to find one that offers the features you need without breaking the bank.

Are soundbars good for gaming?

Soundbars are an excellent choice for gaming, especially when you choose one specifically designed with gaming in mind, like the ones mentioned in our “Best gaming soundbar” article. Gaming soundbars often come with features such as immersive audio, powerful bass, and customizable sound profiles that enhance your gaming experience. Additionally, soundbars tend to be more compact and easier to set up compared to traditional speaker systems, making them a great addition to any gaming setup.

Is 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound better?

Both 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound systems deliver immersive audio experiences, but they differ in the number of speakers and channels they use. A 5.1 system consists of five speakers (front left, front right, center, rear left, and rear right) and a subwoofer, while a 7.1 system adds two extra surround speakers for a total of seven speakers and a subwoofer.

 

In general, 7.1 surround sound systems provide a more immersive audio experience than 5.1 systems, as the additional speakers create a more expansive soundstage. However, the best choice for you depends on factors such as room size, budget, and personal preferences. When looking for the best gaming soundbar, consider whether it supports surround sound technologies like Dolby Atmos or DTS:X, which can create a surround sound-like experience without the need for multiple speakers.

Our Verdict

Editor's Choice

Best Gaming Soundbars in 2023

In conclusion, choosing the best gaming soundbar is crucial for enhancing your gaming experience and making it more immersive. We’ve presented four fantastic options, each catering to different preferences and budgets. Our Editor’s Choice, the Razer Leviathan V2, offers a well-rounded package of performance, design, and features. For those on a budget, the Creative Stage 2.1 delivers impressive sound without breaking the bank. If wireless connectivity is your priority, the Samsung HW-Q60T is a sleek and elegant option, while the Sony HT-G700 is perfect for those seeking an all-encompassing immersive audio experience.Think a