Best Soundbars for Gaming

Imagine stepping into a virtual battlefield, where every gunshot, footstep, and distant explosion comes alive with vivid clarity. The best soundbars for gaming transform your sessions with immersive, crystal-clear audio, offering a superior alternative to built-in speakers or headphones. Whether you’re battling foes in an FPS or exploring open-world RPGs, the best soundbars for gaming deliver the precision and power your built-in speakers or headphones just can’t match.

Unlike traditional surround sound systems, immersive gaming soundbars are compact, stylish, and easy to integrate into gaming setups. Features like spatial audio, customizable sound profiles, and deep bass ensure every sound is fine-tuned for maximum impact. Plus, with sleek designs, RGB lighting, and wireless connectivity, soundbars not only amplify your gaming audio but also elevate your setup’s aesthetics.

Concerned about whether gaming soundbars can match the immersion of surround sound systems? Modern gaming sound systems, equipped with Dolby Atmos, deliver comparable 3D soundscapes without the bulky setup. The latest models are engineered for gamers, with innovations like Dolby Atmos and Bluetooth compatibility, proving that great audio doesn’t have to come with a complicated setup. Backed by expert reviews and hands-on testing, our guide to the best gaming soundbars ensures you’ll find the perfect option to take your gaming to the next level. Ready to level up? Let’s dive in.

The Quick List

Our Top 6 Best Soundbars for Gaming

When it comes to finding the best gaming soundbar in 2024, we’ve carefully selected options that stand out for their immersive audio performance, spatial sound capabilities, and ease of use. Whether you’re after a best budget gaming soundbar for a smaller setup, a sleek and compact model for limited spaces, or a high-end soundbar with Dolby Atmos for intense competitive gaming, there’s something here for every gamer.

Looking to take your gaming experience to the next level? These expert-recommended soundbars are designed to deliver crystal-clear audio, punchy bass, and seamless compatibility with gaming rigs, ensuring every moment from high-stakes FPS battles to cinematic RPG storylines is more immersive than ever. Let’s explore the top picks for gaming and entertainment soundbars to find the ideal fit for your setup.

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Best Overall Gaming Soundbar

The Razer Leviathan V2 Pro stands out as the best soundbar with a subwoofer for gamers who want immersive, adaptable audio. Its AI-powered head tracking and THX® Spatial Audio take sound to a new level, adjusting dynamically to your movements. Whether you’re tracking enemies in fast-paced shooters or exploring rich open-world environments, this soundbar delivers clarity, precision, and depth that feels built around you.

We spent hours testing it with games like Valorant and Call of Duty: Warzone. The built-in IR camera worked effortlessly, tracking our head movements so accurately that we could pinpoint footsteps and enemy flanks with ease. The directional audio gave us an edge in competitive play, almost like wearing a high-end headset but with the openness of a speaker.

Switching to Cyberpunk 2077, we tried the two audio modes: Virtual Headset Mode provided tight, focused sound for solo gaming, while Virtual Speakers Mode created a wide, cinematic soundstage. Every car, conversation, and subtle noise in Night City felt alive, pulling us deeper into the experience.

The subwoofer was a standout. It added impactful, room-filling bass to explosions and action scenes in Apex Legends without overpowering dialogue or other details. Compared to competitors like the Logitech G560, the Leviathan V2 Pro’s head-tracking AI and spatial audio made it feel far more advanced.

While the subwoofer’s size might challenge smaller setups, its performance more than justifies the space. The Razer Leviathan V2 Pro isn’t just the best soundbar with a subwoofer it’s an audio upgrade that adapts to how you play.

Specifications:

• Brand: Razer
• Audio Technology: THX Spatial Audio, AI Head-Tracking
• Connectivity: USB, Bluetooth 5.0
• Special Features: Dedicated subwoofer, RGB Chroma Lighting
• Best For: Competitive gaming with precise directional audio

Pros:

• Exceptional audio precision with head-tracking AI.
• Two audio modes for versatile gaming and entertainment.
• Deep bass via a dedicated subwoofer.
• Sleek design with customizable RGB lighting.
• Wide range of connectivity options.

Cons:

• Larger subwoofer may not fit compact desk setups.
• Premium price point may deter budget-conscious buyers.
• Best suited for PC users; console compatibility is limited.

Budget-Friendly Soundbars for Immersive Gaming

If you’re after a soundbar that fits your gaming setup without breaking the bank, the Redragon GS560 is hard to beat. We tested it during gaming sessions and while streaming music, and for its price, it delivers surprisingly clear sound and decent bass. It’s small, stylish, and functional, making it the best budget gaming soundbar for everyday use.

Setting it up was simple. It plugs into a USB for power and uses a 3.5mm jack for audio, so we easily switched between our PC and TV. The compact design slid perfectly under a monitor, and the built-in volume knob made quick adjustments easy. While testing it with games like Apex Legends, explosions felt punchy without overpowering dialogue. The bass doesn’t shake the room, but it’s balanced enough for casual gaming and music playback.

What caught our attention was the RGB lighting. It syncs to your music or game sounds and adds a nice vibe to your setup. Changing the light mode was effortless with a quick tap on the soundbar’s logo, and it worked seamlessly.

it’s affordable yet full of personality. While it’s not built for audiophiles, it’s perfect for gamers looking for decent sound, ease of use, and visual flair. The Redragon GS560 proves that good doesn’t have to cost much.

For gamers building a cost-effective setup, pairing a budget-friendly gaming soundbar with one of the best gaming PCs under $1000 ensures both great audio and performance without overspending.

Specifications:

• Brand: Redragon
• Audio Technology: Full-Range Drivers
• Connectivity: USB power, 3.5mm jack
• Special Features: RGB lighting with multiple modes, compact design
• Best For: Budget-friendly gaming and casual use

Pros

• Affordable, with additional discounts like 15% off with code “CHEER15.”
• Sleek, space-saving design.
• Easy plug-and-play setup.
• RGB lighting adds an engaging, customizable aesthetic.

Cons

• Limited RGB customization options.
• Bass performance may not satisfy audiophiles or hardcore gamers.

Best Premium Gaming Soundbar

The Creative Sound Blaster Katana V2X is a perfect match for gamers and movie enthusiasts who need premium sound without taking up much space. We tested it across several scenarios of competitive gaming, story-driven adventures, and even Netflix marathons and its performance consistently exceeded expectations.

One standout moment was in Call of Duty: Warzone. With SXFI BATTLE Mode, the soundbar gave us a tactical advantage by making it easy to pinpoint footsteps and distant gunfire. We also tested Scout Mode in stealth games like The Last of Us Part II, and the clarity of subtle sounds like creaking doors and shifting debris made every move feel more strategic.

The compact subwoofer is a game-changer for smaller setups. It’s 40% smaller than the previous Katana model but still packs plenty of punch, delivering deep bass without overwhelming other audio elements. Explosions in Apex Legends felt impactful, while dialogue and ambient sound remained crisp and clear.

What really sets the Katana V2X apart is its versatility. The Dolby Audio support gave movies like Dune a cinematic edge, while the customizable RGB lighting let us match our setup’s vibe. Compared to the Logitech G560, the Katana V2X feels more polished, with better space-saving design and more tailored features for gamers.

The only downside is that the Super X-Fi® technology is optimized for headphones rather than speakers, but the overall performance is still excellent, the Creative Sound Blaster Katana V2X is a small soundbar with big ambitions and it delivers.

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Specifications:

• Brand: Creative
• Audio Technology: Dolby Audio, SXFI BATTLE Mode
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, HDMI ARC, Optical Input
• Special Features: Compact subwoofer, customizable RGB lighting
• Best For: Premium gaming audio and cinematic experiences

Pros

• Compact subwoofer for small spaces.
• Dolby Audio support for cinematic experiences.
• Customizable RGB lighting.
• Versatile device compatibility.

Cons

• Audio modes optimized more for headphones than speaker playback.
• Requires external setup for SXFI features.

Best Compact Soundbars for Gaming and Small Spaces

If you’re looking for a soundbar that fits into smaller spaces without sacrificing audio quality, the Yamaha SR-C20A is an excellent choice. We tested it in a compact gaming setup and a cozy living room, and its performance was consistently impressive across all content types.

For everyday TV viewing, the Clear Voice technology made dialogue easy to hear, even during scenes with heavy background noise. This is a must-have if you’re watching fast-paced dramas or action-packed shows where you don’t want to miss a single line.

In gaming, the Game mode added depth and detail to sound effects like rustling leaves, distant engines, and atmospheric music. Whether it was racing through open worlds or navigating tense stealth missions, the SR-C20A created a more immersive experience. The Bass Extension feature also did a great job of enhancing the low-end sound, delivering a satisfying rumble during explosions and high-action sequences.

What makes it stand out compared to other compact options like the Bose TV Speaker is its ability to create virtual surround sound, offering a more dynamic and expansive listening experience. Its compact size also means it fits neatly on a desk or under a small TV without cluttering your space.

This is one of the best soundbars for small rooms, offering great sound, flexible placement, and seamless Bluetooth connectivity for music streaming. It’s perfect for anyone who wants premium audio in a smaller footprint.

Specifications:

• Brand: Yamaha
• Audio Technology: Clear Voice, Game Mode, Bass Extension
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, HDMI ARC, Optical Input
• Special Features: Compact design, virtual surround sound
• Best For: Small spaces and desk gaming setups

Pros

• Space-saving design perfect for desktops, gaming setups, and small rooms.
• Enhanced dialogue clarity with Clear Voice technology.
• Multiple sound modes cater to different types of content.
• Simple setup with versatile connectivity options.

Cons

• Lacks Wi-Fi connectivity for streaming services.
• Limited bass depth compared to systems with dedicated external subwoofers.

Best RGB Gaming Soundbars with Wireless Features

If you’re searching for the best RGB gaming soundbar to enhance your setup, the Razer Leviathan V2 X hits the sweet spot between style, performance, and convenience. Designed for small desks and clean setups, this compact soundbar combines clear, immersive sound with the vibrant glow of Razer Chroma RGB lighting.

We put the Leviathan V2 X through its paces during long gaming sessions, and it didn’t disappoint. Despite its small size, the two full-range drivers and dual passive radiators produced surprisingly powerful sound. In FPS games like Apex Legends, we could clearly hear directional cues like enemy footsteps, while the bass added just enough depth to explosions and gunfire. It won’t shake your room like a subwoofer, but it’s perfect for gamers who want clarity without overpowering bass.

What really stands out is the simplicity. With USB-C power, setup was a breeze just one cable for both power and audio. The Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity also made it easy to switch between gaming on a PC and streaming music from a phone, all with zero lag.

And then there’s the lighting. The 14-zone Razer Chroma RGB synced beautifully with gameplay, pulsing with every move and creating an immersive vibe. Whether you prefer bold lighting effects or a subtle glow, the customization options make this soundbar feel personal.

The Leviathan V2 X delivers excellent sound, easy setup, and a sleek design that’s ideal for gamers who want both performance and aesthetics. It’s not for bass-heavy enthusiasts, but it’s a solid pick for anyone looking to elevate their gaming experience without taking up too much space.

For a more personalized and immersive audio experience during competitive gameplay, check out the best PC gaming headsets of 2024 for crystal-clear sound and precision.

Specifications:

• Brand: Razer
• Audio Technology: Dual Full-Range Drivers, Passive Radiators
• Connectivity: USB-C, Bluetooth 5.0
• Special Features: Razer Chroma RGB Lighting, compact design
• Best For: Small desks and RGB enthusiasts

Pros

• Space-saving design perfect for small desks or minimalist setups.
• USB-C eliminates cable clutter while providing efficient power and audio delivery.
• Customizable RGB lighting adds visual appeal.
• Bluetooth connectivity enables smooth switching between devices.

Cons

• No Dolby Audio or advanced surround sound capabilities.
• Lacks a dedicated subwoofer, so bass output is limited compared to larger sound systems.

Best Soundbars with Surround Sound for Gaming

If you’re serious about immersive home audio, the JBL Bar 9.1 is hard to beat. After testing it for both movies and gaming, it’s clear why this is one of the best wireless soundbars with Dolby Atmos. Its detachable surround speakers and 10” wireless subwoofer transform your living room into a true cinematic experience without the hassle of extra wires.

We tried the Bar 9.1 during a movie night, and the results were stunning. Explosions in action-packed scenes felt real, with bass you could physically feel thanks to the subwoofer. The Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technology created a 3D soundscape, making it feel like helicopters were flying right over us. The four up-firing speakers worked beautifully, bouncing sound off the ceiling to fill the room.

For gaming, the wireless surround speakers were a game-changer. We placed them behind us, and directional audio made pinpointing enemies in FPS games intuitive and satisfying. Even better, the speakers last up to 10 hours on a single charge, and docking them back on the soundbar for recharging is seamless.

What impressed us most was how versatile it is for music. With built-in Chromecast, AirPlay 2, and Bluetooth, streaming playlists or podcasts was effortless, and the sound quality stayed consistent no matter the source.

The JBL Bar 9.1 is an investment, but if you want true wireless surround sound with unmatched flexibility and performance, it’s worth every penny.

Specifications:

• Brand: JBL
• Audio Technology: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, HDMI eARC, Optical Input
• Special Features: Detachable wireless surround speakers, 10” subwoofer
• Best For: Cinematic surround sound for gaming and movies

Pros

• Easy setup with detachable wireless speakers and no additional wiring.
• 10” subwoofer delivers room-shaking bass.
• 3D audio enhances immersion for movies and games.
• Multiple streaming options make it versatile for music lovers.

Cons

• Limited to 10-hour playback for the detachable speakers before recharging.
• Premium pricing might deter budget-conscious buyers.

How to Choose the Best Soundbar for Gaming in 2024

Selecting the right gaming soundbar can be a game-changer, quite literally. From delivering immersive surround sound to seamlessly fitting into your setup, a gaming soundbar should enhance every aspect of your gaming experience. But with countless options on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors to consider to help you make the best choice for your setup.

1. Sound Quality Matters Most

The primary reason to invest in a gaming soundbar is to experience audio that transforms your gameplay. Look for features like Dolby Atmos or DTS:X that simulate surround sound, creating an immersive 3D soundstage. These technologies let you pinpoint enemy movements or feel the rumble of explosions as if you’re in the game.

Pro Tip: If you play competitive games, prioritize soundbars with exceptional clarity for directional audio cues like footsteps, reloads, or voice commands. Bass is important, but it shouldn’t overpower the mids and highs.

For casual gamers looking to pair their soundbars with consoles, check out our guide to the best gaming consoles for casual gamers for a seamless entertainment experience.

2. Connectivity Options for Seamless Integration

Gaming setups vary, so your soundbar needs to adapt to your devices. Prioritize soundbars with HDMI ARC for easy integration with consoles and TVs, as well as Bluetooth for wireless connectivity. Optical input is great for older consoles, and USB ports can make your soundbar double as a PC audio hub.

Checklist for Connectivity:

• HDMI ARC: Best for consoles and TVs.
• Bluetooth: Ideal for wireless convenience.
• Optical input: For legacy devices.
• 3.5mm or USB-C: Versatility for PC gamers.

3. Size and Compatibility

Before clicking “Buy,” consider your available space. Compact soundbars fit neatly under monitors for desk setups, while larger models pair better with wall-mounted TVs or living room gaming spaces. Also, pay attention to mounting options some soundbars are designed to be wall-mounted, saving desk or floor space.

Quick Guide to Choosing the Right Size:

• Desk Setup: Opt for compact soundbars with a sleek design.
• Living Room or TV Setup: Go for larger soundbars with a subwoofer for deeper bass.

4. Customization and Features

For gamers, personalization is key when selecting the best soundbars for gaming and movies. Features like customizable RGB lighting let you sync effects with your games for a more immersive setup. Many gaming sound systems also offer tailored sound modes for gaming, movies, or music, enhancing your overall audio experience. Look for soundbars that offer EQ controls or presets, so you can tweak the sound profile to your liking.

Why This Matters: Imagine a soundbar that changes its lighting during a boss fight or a preset that amps up the bass during action scenes. These features not only enhance gameplay but also make your setup stand out.

5. Budget vs. Features

Gaming soundbars come in all price ranges, but not all deliver value for money. Start by defining your budget, then compare features in your price range. Budget soundbars are great for basic audio enhancement, while mid-range options often include features like surround sound and RGB lighting. Premium models provide advanced technologies like Dolby Atmos and head-tracking for spatial audio.

Pro Tip: Don’t overpay for features you won’t use. For casual gamers, a $100-$200 soundbar with strong core features is often enough. Serious gamers may want to invest in a $300+ model for cutting-edge audio.

Why Soundbars Are Perfect for Gaming

Let’s face it gaming is about more than just sharp visuals. Whether it’s the faint rustle of an enemy sneaking behind you or the deafening roar of a battlefield, sound plays a critical role in how immersive your gaming experience feels. But here’s the thing: built-in speakers on TVs and monitors don’t do justice to today’s dynamic games. And while headphones can deliver great audio, they can get uncomfortable after hours of play. That’s where gaming soundbars step in, offering a compact, stylish solution with powerful, room-filling sound.

Compact Powerhouses: Small Space, Big Sound

One of the biggest advantages of a soundbar is its ability to deliver cinematic-quality audio without hogging space. Designed to sit discreetly under your monitor or TV, soundbars are perfect for smaller setups, like dorm rooms or apartment living rooms. But don’t let their size fool you they’re equipped with cutting-edge features like Dolby Atmos and 5.1 surround sound simulation, creating a soundstage that feels like it’s wrapping around you. Imagine hearing the enemy reload behind you in an FPS or the wind whipping past as you race through a virtual city. That’s the level of realism a good soundbar brings.

Immersion Without Limits: Surround Sound That Puts You in the Action

Gaming isn’t just about playing; it’s about feeling like you’re part of the game. Modern soundbars excel at creating this level of immersion, thanks to spatial audio technology. This means the sound doesn’t just come from the front but from all around you even overhead. So, whether it’s an intense cutscene or tracking footsteps in a battle royale, soundbars help you stay ahead of the action.

Quick Tip: To make the most of your soundbar, place it at ear level and pair it with features like gaming-specific sound modes for richer audio depth.

A Stylish Upgrade for Any Setup

Today’s gaming soundbars don’t just sound good they look amazing too. With sleek designs and customizable RGB lighting, they enhance your gaming rig’s aesthetic. Many even sync lighting effects to your gameplay, creating an atmosphere that changes with the action. And let’s not forget convenience: with Bluetooth and HDMI ARC options, you can switch seamlessly between gaming and streaming without juggling cables. Whether you’re curating the ultimate RGB gaming station or just want a clutter-free desk, a soundbar gives you both function and style.

FAQS – Best Soundbars for Gaming

Conclusion

Audio is just as important as visuals when it comes to gaming. Whether you’re dodging enemy fire in FPS games or getting lost in the rich worlds of RPGs, the best soundbars for gaming deliver the immersive, crystal-clear audio you need to stay ahead. From budget-friendly soundbars for small gaming setups to premium models with Dolby Atmos and surround sound, the right soundbar can make every gaming moment unforgettable.

If you’re looking for precise directional audio to sharpen your competitive edge or deep bass to bring your cinematic gaming sessions to life, our expertly tested recommendations have you covered. With options like the Razer Leviathan V2 Pro for cutting-edge gamers or the Redragon GS560 for affordability, there’s something here for every type of player.

Don’t miss the chance to upgrade your gaming audio. Explore our list of the top soundbars for gaming in 2024, and discover a soundbar that matches your style, setup, and budget. It’s time to elevate your gaming experience with sound that truly immerses you in the action.