Soundbar Vs. Speakers
Here is a table for a quick reference comparing various factors of Soundbar Vs. Speakers before you make a final decision.
| Factors | Soundbar | Speakers |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Soundbars offer better sound quality than built-in speakers of TVs. | Surround Speakers offer the best sound quality when compared to built-in speakers or soundbars. |
| Design & Convenience | Soundbars are compact in design. | Speakers vary in size and design. |
| Channels | Up to 11 channels based on the soundbar system. | Can have as many channels as you want. |
| Compatibility | Compatible with almost all devices used to stream audio or video content. | Compatible with all the streaming devices when connected through an AV receiver. |
| Connectivity | Soundbar supports Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay, Chromecast, and other wireless connections. | Using an AV receiver, you can connect your surround system and stream via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and more. |
| Upgradability | Soundbar don’t provide the flexibility of the speakers as far as upgradability is concerned. | Speakers offer the flexibility to upgrade whenever needed. |
| Pricing | Soundbars are more affordable than speakers. | Speakers are comparatively on the pricier side. |
When it comes to improving the audio experience of your TV or other streaming device, you have two options. The first option is adding a soundbar, and the other is a surround speakers system. While both options might sound similar, they have various factors and aspects that differentiate them. So, if you are looking to amplify your streaming experience using a soundbar or speakers, go through this comparison we have made to make your decision process less hectic.
Sound Quality – Soundbar Vs. Speakers
Soundbar
- Soundbars can improve the sound quality compared to built-in speakers of TV and other streaming device.
- It offers the best sound quality for smaller rooms. However, the sound quality might not be comparable with speakers in larger rooms.
- Most soundbars support Dolby Atmos and DTS: X for a better audio experience while streaming content or playing games.
- Soundbars offer various customizable presets to get different sound experiences for different content.
- The soundstage of the soundbar cannot be modified like the speakers.
Speakers
- Surround speakers are the go-to option if you want the best audio experience.
- You can set up the speakers to create a unique soundstage and get the best surround experience.
- You will need an AV Reciever to get and set up Dolby Atmos experience on the surround speakers.
- You can set your own soundstage based on your room size with a speakers setup.
Verdict: A surround speaker system offers superior sound quality compared to soundbars. However, you will need an AV receiver to get the best out of the surround speakers system.
Design & Convenience – Soundbar Vs. Speakers
Soundbar
- Soundbars are sleek and can be easily mounted on tables or walls. This makes soundbars ideal for small rooms.
- The setup process is easy and quick and doesn’t require any prior experience.
- You can connect your soundbar to your TV using a single cable.
Speakers
- Speakers can vary in size. Based on the size, you can mount them on tables or walls.
- You might need expert help in setting up the speakers to create soundstages.
- Connecting speakers to TV might not be as simple as connecting soundbars.
Verdict: Soundbars have a simpler design and occupy less space in the room when compared to surround speakers system. Soundbars are also way easier to set when compared to speakers.
Channels – Soundbar Vs. Speakers
Soundbar
- Soundbars can have up to 11 channels. These multiple channels help you achieve the cinematic experience.
Speakers
- The total number of channels on your speaker system is equal to the total number of speakers in your surround system.
Verdict: Unlike surround speakers, you cannot add additional channels to your soundbar.
Compatibility – Soundbar Vs. Speakers
Soundbar
- Soundbars are compatible with most of the streaming devices.
- Most of the soundbars have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections for wireless streaming.
- The latest soundbars also support AirPlay, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, and other wireless connectivity.
- Some top-end soundbars from popular brands also have Google Assistant, Alexa, and Siri compatibility.
Speakers
- Speakers are not directly compatible with many streaming devices.
- You can use an AV receiver to connect your surround speaker system to various devices.
- With an AV receiver, your surround system will be compatible with Bluetooth, AirPlay, Chromecast, and Wi-Fi.
- Some AV receivers also let you use voice assistants to control your speakers.
Verdict: Soundbars are compatible with multiple streaming devices. Soundbars also supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay, Chromecast and others.
Connectivity – Soundbar Vs. Speakers
Soundbar
- You can connect the soundbar to your TV using an HDMI cable, RCA cable, Optical cable, Coaxial cable, or AUX cable.
- You can connect your smartphone or PC to your soundbar via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to stream content wirelessly.
Speakers
- You can connect your speaker to an AV receiver and the AV receiver to your TV using HDMI, RCA, or optical cable.
- Some AV receivers also support Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and other wireless connections.
Verdict: Unlike soundbars, you need an AV receiver to connect your speakers to the TV.
Upgradability – Soundbar Vs. Speakers
Soundbar
- Soundbars offer limited or no support for upgradability.
- Some soundbars let you add additional speakers.
Speakers
- You can add as many speakers as you want to your surround system.
Verdict: You can upgrade and add more speakers to your surround speakers system, unlike Soundbars.
Pricing – Soundbar Vs. Speakers
Soundbar
- Soundbars are generally cheaper than surround speaker systems.
- They do not require any additional equipment.
Speakers
- Speakers are costlier than soundbars.
- You will need additional equipment, like an AV receiver, to get the best experience.
Verdict: Soundbars are affordable and offer more value for money when compared to surround speaker systems.
Final Verdict
Soundbars are focused on film and music enthusiasts who want a better sound quality when compared to the built-in speakers of their streaming devices. Soundbars are easy to set up and use and, most importantly, more affordable than surround speaker systems. However, if you want the best audio experience you can probably get, then it is totally worth investing in a surround speaker system with an AV receiver.
FAQ
Yes. You can use a soundbar as a speaker for your TVs and other devices.
Yes. Soundbars offer good audio quality and occupy less space, making them an easy recommendation for gaming setups and PCs.
Yes. Speakers offer better audio quality when compared to soundbars.
