10 Best Soundbar With Optical Input 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Sonos Beam Gen 2 - Black - Soundbar with Dolby Atmos
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a compact soundbar designed to enhance your TV and music listening experience. It supports Dolby Atmos, which creates a 3D surround sound effect, making movies and shows feel more immersive. With 200 watts of power and a two-channel surround sound setup, it delivers clear dialogue and rich bass, though it lacks a built-in subwoofer. Instead, you can wirelessly add one later if you want deeper bass. Connectivity options are solid, including HDMI, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and an included optical audio adapter, making it compatible with most TVs and smart home setups.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,387
Audio Channels
Connectivity Options
Sound Modes
Most important from
1902 reviews
#2
Bose Home Theater System Smart Ultra Dolby Atmos Soundbar, Bass Module 700 2X Wireless Surround Speaker, (Black)
The Bose Home Theater System Smart Ultra Dolby Atmos Soundbar is a strong choice if you want immersive, theater-like sound at home. It offers Dolby Atmos support and a 3.1 channel setup, which means you get good surround sound with a dedicated bass module and two wireless surround speakers for richer audio. With 300 watts of power, it can fill a medium to large room with clear, dynamic sound. Connectivity is versatile, including HDMI and optical inputs, making it easy to connect to most TVs and projectors. It also supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, so you can play music from apps like Spotify and Apple Music.
Rating
8.8
Audio Channels
Connectivity Options
Size and Design
Most important from
96 reviews
#3
Samsung HW-C450 2.1ch Soundbar w/DTS Virtual X, Subwoofer Included, Bass Boost, Adaptive Sound Lite, Game Mode, Bluetooth, Wireless Surround Sound Compatible
The SAMSUNG HW-C450 2.1ch Soundbar stands out with its DTS Virtual:X technology, delivering a spacious 3D sound experience that could enhance your home theater setup. The inclusion of a subwoofer ensures powerful bass, and the Bass Boost feature allows you to amplify it with ease. Gamers might appreciate the Game Mode, which provides directional audio for an immersive gaming experience. The Adaptive Sound Lite feature dynamically optimizes audio for different types of content, ensuring clear voice and enhanced sound quality for movies and games.
Rating
8.5
Sound Quality
Connectivity Options
Size and Design
Most important from
2103 reviews
Top 10 Best Soundbar With Optical Input 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Sonos Beam Gen 2 - Black - Soundbar with Dolby Atmos
Sonos Beam Gen 2 - Black - Soundbar with Dolby Atmos
Audio Channels: 2.0
Wattage: 200 Watts
Connectivity Options: Ethernet, HDMI, Wi-Fi, Optical
Sound Modes: Dolby Atmos
Size and Design: 3.9"D x 25.6"W x 2.7"H
Subwoofer: No built-in, Wireless connectivity
Brand and Reviews: Sonos, 4.4/5 stars, 2,104 ratings
Chosen by 1387 this week
Bose Home Theater System Smart Ultra Dolby Atmos Soundbar, Bass Module 700 2X Wireless Surround Speaker, (Black)
Bose Home Theater System Smart Ultra Dolby Atmos Soundbar, Bass Module 700 2X Wireless Surround Speaker, (Black)
Audio Channels: 3.1
Wattage: 300 Watts
Connectivity Options: HDMI, Optical, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Sound Modes: Dolby Atmos
Size and Design: 2.25"D x 27.5"W x 2.25"H, Wall Mount
Subwoofer: Wired
Brand and Reviews: Bose, 4.2/5 stars, 56 ratings
Samsung HW-C450 2.1ch Soundbar w/DTS Virtual X, Subwoofer Included, Bass Boost, Adaptive Sound Lite, Game Mode, Bluetooth, Wireless Surround Sound Compatible
Samsung HW-C450 2.1ch Soundbar w/DTS Virtual X, Subwoofer Included, Bass Boost, Adaptive Sound Lite, Game Mode, Bluetooth, Wireless Surround Sound Compatible
Sound Quality: DTS Virtual:X, Adaptive Sound Lite
Channels: 2.1
Connectivity Options: Bluetooth Multi Connection
Size and Design: Sleek design
Ease of Use: One Remote Control
Brand and Reviews: SAMSUNG
Samsung Q-Series Soundbar HW-QS700F 3.1.2 ch Subwoofer (2025 Model) Convertible Fit, Wireless Dolby Atmos, Q-Symphony
Samsung Q-Series Soundbar HW-QS700F 3.1.2 ch Subwoofer (2025 Model) Convertible Fit, Wireless Dolby Atmos, Q-Symphony
Audio Channels: 3.1.2
Wattage: 345 Watts
Connectivity Options: Bluetooth, HDMI, Wireless
Sound Modes: Dolby Atmos
Size and Design: 9.8"D x 45.67"W x 9.91"H
Subwoofer: 6.5-inch wireless
Brand and Reviews: Samsung, 4.4/5 stars (1,028 ratings)
Polk Audio MagniFi Max AX SR 7.1.2 Channel Sound Bar with Wireless 10" Subwoofer & SR2 Surround Speakers for Smart TV, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, Polk's Patented VoiceAdjust & SDA Technologies, Black
Polk Audio MagniFi Max AX SR 7.1.2 Channel Sound Bar with Wireless 10" Subwoofer & SR2 Surround Speakers for Smart TV, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, Polk's Patented VoiceAdjust & SDA Technologies, Black
Sound Quality: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, SDA 3D
Channels: 7.1.2
Connectivity Options: 3x 4K HDMI-in, 1x HDMI eARC
Size and Design: 4.6"D x 45"W x 2.8"H
Ease of Use: Google Home app setup
Brand and Reviews: Polk Audio, 4.4 stars from 562 ratings
Related Products
Up to 33% off
Samsung B-Series Soundbar HW-B550F 2.1 ch DTS Virtual:X Soundbar with Subwoofer (2025 Model) Voice Enhance Mode, Bass Boost, Adaptive Sound
Samsung B-Series Soundbar HW-B550F 2.1 ch DTS Virtual:X Soundbar with Subwoofer (2025 Model) Voice Enhance Mode, Bass Boost, Adaptive Sound
Audio Channels: 2.1
Wattage: 300 Watts
Connectivity Options: Bluetooth, HDMI
Size and Design: 11.64"D x 33.81"W x 13.5"H
Subwoofer: Wireless
Brand and Reviews: Samsung, 4.4 stars, 2,516 ratings
Bose Smart Dolby Atmos Soundbar, All-in-One Soundbar for TV, A.I. Dialogue Mode, Voice Control and Amazon Alexa Built-in, Supports Bluetooth/AirPlay/Spotify Connect/Chromecast, Black
Bose Smart Dolby Atmos Soundbar, All-in-One Soundbar for TV, A.I. Dialogue Mode, Voice Control and Amazon Alexa Built-in, Supports Bluetooth/AirPlay/Spotify Connect/Chromecast, Black
Audio Channels: 5.1.4
Connectivity Options: Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Spotify, Chromecast
Sound Modes: A.I. Dialogue Mode
Size and Design: 4.09"D x 27.34"W x 2.21"H
Subwoofer: Not included
Brand and Reviews: Bose, 4.1 stars
Polk Audio MagniFi Mini AX Sound Bar for TV with Wireless Subwoofer, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Certified, Polk's patented VoiceAdjust & SDA technologies, Ultra-Compact Design, Easy Setup, Black
Polk Audio MagniFi Mini AX Sound Bar for TV with Wireless Subwoofer, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Certified, Polk's patented VoiceAdjust & SDA technologies, Ultra-Compact Design, Easy Setup, Black
Sound Quality: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
Channels: 5
Connectivity Options: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Chromecast
Size and Design: Ultra-compact
Ease of Use: Straightforward setup, compatible with most remotes
Brand and Reviews: Polk Audio
Bose TV Speaker - Soundbar for TV with Bluetooth and HDMI-ARC Connectivity, All-in-One Compact Soundbar, Includes Remote Control, Black
Bose TV Speaker - Soundbar for TV with Bluetooth and HDMI-ARC Connectivity, All-in-One Compact Soundbar, Includes Remote Control, Black
Sound Quality: Stereo
Connectivity Options: Bluetooth 4.2, HDMI ARC, Optical in
Size and Design: 4.02"D x 23.38"W x 2.21"H
Ease of Use: Straightforward setup, single TV connection
Brand and Reviews: Bose, 4.3 stars from 12,099 ratings
#10
Polk Audio Signa S2 Sound Bar for Smart TV with Subwoofer, Wireless – Exclusive VoiceAdjust Technology, Ultra-Slim Design, Works with 4K & HD TVs, HDMI & Optical, Bluetooth, Wireless Streaming
Polk Audio Signa S2 Sound Bar for Smart TV with Subwoofer, Wireless – Exclusive VoiceAdjust Technology, Ultra-Slim Design, Works with 4K & HD TVs, HDMI & Optical, Bluetooth, Wireless Streaming
Sound Quality: 5 drivers, wireless subwoofer, VoiceAdjust, Dolby
Channels: Surround
Connectivity Options: HDMI ARC, optical, AUX, Bluetooth
Size and Design: Slim, wall-mountable
Ease of Use: Quick setup
Brand and Reviews: Polk Audio
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Buying Guide for the Best Soundbar With Optical Input
Choosing the right soundbar can significantly enhance your audio experience, whether you're watching movies, playing games, or listening to music. A soundbar with an optical input is a great choice for high-quality sound transmission. To make the best choice, you need to consider several key specifications that will determine the performance and compatibility of the soundbar with your existing setup. Here are the key specs you should focus on and how to navigate them to find the best fit for your needs.Audio ChannelsAudio channels refer to the number of separate audio tracks that the soundbar can play. Common configurations include 2.0, 2.1, 3.1, 5.1, and even 7.1 channels. A 2.0 soundbar has two channels (left and right), while a 2.1 adds a subwoofer for bass. Higher numbers like 5.1 and 7.1 include additional speakers for surround sound. If you want a simple upgrade from your TV speakers, a 2.0 or 2.1 soundbar might suffice. For a more immersive experience, especially for movies and gaming, consider a 5.1 or 7.1 soundbar.
WattageWattage indicates the power output of the soundbar, which affects the volume and clarity of the sound. Higher wattage generally means louder and clearer sound. Soundbars typically range from 30 watts to over 300 watts. If you have a small to medium-sized room, a soundbar with 30-100 watts should be adequate. For larger rooms or if you prefer very loud audio, look for soundbars with higher wattage.
Connectivity OptionsWhile an optical input is essential for high-quality digital audio, it's also important to consider other connectivity options like HDMI ARC, Bluetooth, and AUX. HDMI ARC allows for easy connection and control with your TV remote, while Bluetooth enables wireless streaming from your devices. AUX is useful for connecting older devices. Choose a soundbar with multiple connectivity options to ensure compatibility with all your devices.
Sound ModesSound modes are preset audio settings that optimize the soundbar's performance for different types of content, such as movies, music, news, or sports. These modes adjust the soundbar's equalizer settings to enhance dialogue clarity, bass, or overall sound quality. If you watch a variety of content, look for a soundbar with multiple sound modes to get the best audio experience for each type.
Size and DesignThe size and design of the soundbar should complement your TV and room decor. Soundbars come in various lengths and styles, from compact models to larger, more elaborate designs. Measure the space where you plan to place the soundbar and ensure it fits well without obstructing your TV screen or other components. Additionally, consider the aesthetic appeal and whether it matches your room's style.
SubwooferA subwoofer is a speaker dedicated to reproducing low-frequency sounds, adding depth and richness to the audio. Some soundbars come with a built-in subwoofer, while others include a separate wireless or wired subwoofer. If you enjoy bass-heavy music or action-packed movies, a soundbar with a subwoofer will provide a more satisfying audio experience. Decide whether you prefer an integrated or separate subwoofer based on your space and sound preferences.
Brand and ReviewsThe brand and customer reviews can give you insight into the soundbar's reliability, performance, and customer service. Established brands often have a reputation for quality and durability. Reading reviews from other users can help you understand the pros and cons of a particular model. Look for soundbars with consistently positive feedback and high ratings to ensure you're making a reliable choice.