Reader support keeps this site open, opinionated, and happily independent. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.7 Best $100 Soundbar | Under $100 Soundbar With Real Bass

Thin, tinny TV speakers ruin the tension of a good movie and make dialogue sound hollow. A dedicated soundbar at this price point changes that entirely, delivering depth and clarity your flat-screen simply cannot produce on its own.

I’m Rikta — the co-founder and writer behind FitlyFast. After analyzing hundreds of hours of customer feedback, comparing measured driver sizes, and sorting through real-world connectivity reports, I’ve put together the clearest path to a better audio setup without stretching your budget.

This guide ranks the top models for clarity, bass impact, and ease of setup, with the goal of helping you find the absolute best $100 soundbar for your specific room and listening habits.

How To Choose The Best $100 Soundbar

Soundbars under $100 all promise ‘cinematic audio’, but the real difference comes down to three specific choices: how the bass is delivered, which connection standard your TV uses, and whether spatial audio processing is actually worth the trade-off. Here is what matters most.

Wired Subwoofer vs. Built-in Woofer

A separate wired subwoofer moves more air and produces deeper, distortion-free lows that you can physically feel during explosions and bass drops. A built-in woofer saves space and eliminates extra cables, but it relies on the soundbar’s chassis, which often limits depth to around 60Hz. If you watch action movies or listen to bass-heavy music, a wired sub is the smarter choice. For a clean, minimal setup in a small room where the goal is just clearer dialogue, a built-in woofer is sufficient.

HDMI ARC vs. Optical vs. Bluetooth 5.3

HDMI ARC (or eARC) is the only connection that lets you control volume and power with your TV remote and pass through higher-quality audio formats like Dolby Digital Plus. Optical is a reliable fallback but cannot carry remote commands. Bluetooth 5.3 is great for streaming music from your phone, but introduces a slight delay that can be noticeable in video content. If your TV has an ARC port, prioritize a soundbar that uses it. If not, optical is your next best wired option.

Real Wattage vs. Peak Power Ratings

Many entry-level bars advertise peak power numbers that are measured in a lab burst, not continuous listening. Focus on RMS (Root Mean Square) or simply look at total driver wattage that the brand specifies as standard output. A 100W RMS bar with a dedicated subwoofer driver will outperform a bar claiming 200W peak with only two small full-range drivers. The real-world test: compare the size of the actual speaker drivers, not just the wattage sticker.

Quick Comparison

On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.

Model Category Best For Key Spec Amazon
Samsung HW B400F 2.0 ch Samsung TV owners, voice clarity Built-in subwoofer, 40W RMS Amazon
Philips B5109 2.0 ch Roku TV, app customization DTS Virtual:X, 120W max Amazon
TCL S45H 2.0 ch Spatial audio, small rooms Dolby Atmos, AI Room Calibration Amazon
RIOWOIS 3.1ch 3.1 ch Deep bass, gaming/action movies Wired 5.25″ subwoofer, 50Hz bass Amazon
Saiyin Detachable 2.1 ch Wider soundstage, PC setups Detachable tower speakers, 10-level bass Amazon
MZEIBO 120W 2.1 ch Easy wireless streaming, music Wired subwoofer, Bluetooth 5.3 Amazon
Sony S100F 2.0 ch Compact office, clear dialogue Bass Reflex speaker, S-Force Pro Amazon

In‑Depth Reviews

Best Overall

1. Samsung B-Series Soundbar HW B400F (2025 Model)

Built-in SubwooferOne Remote Control

The Samsung B-Series HW B400F earns the top spot because it solves the most common pain point of this category: seamless integration. If you own a Samsung TV, the One Remote feature means you never have to juggle two remotes again. The built-in subwoofer delivers a punchier low-end than most 2.0-channel bars in this price tier, and the Voice Enhance Mode specifically amplifies dialogue frequencies without muddying the mid-range.

At a rated output around 40W RMS, this bar is tuned for medium to small living rooms where volume doesn’t need to compete with open-concept spaces. The Surround Sound Expansion mode widens the stereo field enough to create a believable sense of space during action sequences, even without rear speakers. The slim profile and included wall-mount hardware make it easy to place under any 43-inch or larger TV.

Setup takes under ten minutes via the included optical cable, and the auto-power feature syncs with your TV input so you never accidentally leave it on overnight. Users consistently report that the low-volume Night Mode is genuinely effective, which matters when you want to watch late without disturbing others. For a clean, brand-loyal setup, this is the right call.

Why it’s great

  • One Remote syncing with Samsung TV eliminates extra remotes
  • Voice Enhance Mode sharply improves dialogue clarity
  • Night Mode minimizes bass for late-night viewing

Good to know

  • Rated around 40W, quieter than larger 100W bars
  • Built-in subwoofer cannot match a wired external unit for deep bass
Roku Ready

2. Philips B5109 2.0 Channel Soundbar

DTS Virtual:XPhilips App

The Philips B5109 is specifically designed for Roku TV owners, and it shows in every detail. It is Roku TV Ready certified, which means your existing Roku remote controls power, volume, and mute without any extra pairing step. The 120W peak output gives it noticeably more headroom than most 2.0-channel competitors, and the DTS Virtual:X processing adds simulated height and width that genuinely improves action scenes and sports broadcasts.

What sets this bar apart is the PHILIPS Home Entertainment App, which lets you adjust EQ presets (Movie, Music, Voice, Stadium) and toggle Night Mode from your phone. The remote includes direct buttons for treble and bass adjustment, so you don’t need to dig through menus. The Bluetooth 5.4 range reaches up to 100 meters, which is exceptional for streaming music from another room.

Wall mounting requires a specific bracket design that some users found restrictive, but if you plan to place the bar on a media stand, that concern disappears. The dark grey finish resists fingerprints better than glossy black alternatives. For Roku users who want app-based control and a wider virtual soundstage, this is the most capable bar at this price.

Why it’s great

  • Roku TV Ready works with existing remote, no second remote needed
  • DTS Virtual:X creates believable height and surround effects
  • Philips App offers granular EQ and Night Mode control

Good to know

  • No wired subwoofer output, bass is limited for heavy action
  • Wall mounting uses a non-standard bracket, check your setup
Spatial Sound

3. TCL S45H 2.0 Sound Bar

Dolby AtmosAI Room Calibration

The TCL S45H delivers Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X in a slim 31.9-inch package that fits under even the largest TVs without blocking the screen. The 100W total output punches above its size class, and the built-in AI Sonic auto room calibration adjusts the frequency response based on where you place the bar, correcting for the acoustic quirks of your specific room. This is a feature usually reserved for bars costing two or three times more.

Dialogue clarity is this bar’s strongest asset. The S45H uses dedicated tweeters that keep speech crisp even when the soundtrack gets busy, and the TCL app offers a Dialog Enhancement toggle that further lifts vocals. The HDMI eARC connection passes Dolby Atmos signals directly, so you get real object-based audio placement without compression. For a 2.0 bar, the spatial simulation is convincing enough to make you forget there are no rear speakers.

The compact design (just 2.36 inches tall) means it does not block your TV’s infrared receiver or bottom-mounted ports. Setup is genuinely plug-and-play with TCL TVs, which auto-detect the bar and configure the remote. The included wall-mount kit is complete with a template for easy drilling. If you crave height effects in a bar without a subwoofer, the S45H is the smartest pick.

Why it’s great

  • Dolby Atmos with DTS Virtual:X creates real spatial depth
  • AI Sonic room calibration fine-tunes audio to your room shape
  • Ultra-slim profile fits under any TV without blocking ports

Good to know

  • No separate subwoofer, bass extension stops around 60Hz
  • App required for full surround personalization features
Bass Heavy

4. RIOWOIS 3.1ch Sound Bar with Wired Subwoofer

5.25″ Subwoofer10-Level Bass Control

The RIOWOIS 3.1ch is the only bar in this roundup with a dedicated 5.25-inch wired subwoofer, and that single spec makes it the undisputed champion for deep bass. The 40W sub driver extends down to a genuine 50Hz, which means you actually feel the floor rumble during explosions and bass drops, not just hear a vague thump. The 100W total power is split between the soundbar’s dual woofers and horn tweeters, producing clear highs alongside the heavy lows.

The 10-level bass adjustment via remote gives you fine control over subwoofer intensity, which is critical because the default setting can overwhelm smaller rooms. Three sound modes (Movie, Music, News) let you quickly switch presets without diving into menus. The 17-inch soundbar is compact enough for a desk or small entertainment center, yet the four-speaker array creates a wider stereo image than most single-bar units.

Connection-wise, it offers TV-ARC, Optical, AUX, and Bluetooth 5.3, but you need to supply your own ARC cable. A critical setup note: if you get cracking noise, the TV must be set to output PCM/Stereo, not Dolby/DTS. This is a minor configuration step that once done, delivers the most physically impactful audio of any bar at this price. For gamers or movie buffs who prioritize low-end punch, this is the pick.

Why it’s great

  • Dedicated 5.25-inch wired subwoofer reaches 50Hz for felt bass
  • 10-level bass control fine-tunes low-end intensity
  • Compact bar size fits small shelves and desk setups

Good to know

  • TV must be set to PCM output to avoid audio crackling
  • ARC cable not included in the box
Flexible Setup

5. Saiyin Sound Bar with Subwoofer (Detachable)

Detachable TowersHorn Tweeter

The Saiyin is the most physically adaptable bar in the group. Its 2-in-1 detachable design lets you split the main unit into two tower speakers, creating genuine left-right channel separation that no single soundbar can replicate. This transforms your audio from a narrow center-source to a wide stereo soundstage perfect for desktop PC setups where you sit close to the speakers. The included subwoofer adds the low-end weight missing from typical 2.0 bars.

The horn tweeter design pushes high frequencies farther than standard dome tweeters, which is immediately noticeable in larger rooms where clarity tends to drop off. The 10-level adjustable bass works across all modes, and DSP processing offers Movie, Music, and News presets that genuinely change the EQ curve, not just the volume. The 33-foot Bluetooth range is practical for open-concept living spaces.

Setup is minimal—plug the subwoofer into the main unit, connect to your TV via optical or ARC, and the bar auto-detects the source. Some users noted that the bar is less muddy when used in tower mode versus the single bar mode, and the difference is enough to recommend the tower configuration. The 5-year warranty and free lifetime accessory replacements add long-term confidence. For PC gamers and apartment dwellers who value placement flexibility, this is a smart choice.

Why it’s great

  • Detachable towers create true stereo separation, unmatched by single bars
  • Horn tweeter projects clear highs across larger rooms
  • 5-year warranty plus free lifetime accessory replacements

Good to know

  • Sound can sound muddy when used in single bar mode
  • Some port noise between 70-110Hz reported by audio enthusiasts
Best Value

6. MZEIBO Sound Bar with Subwoofer (120W)

120W TotalBluetooth 5.3

The MZEIBO 120W soundbar packs the highest advertised total power in this price range, and it backs that rating with a wired subwoofer that delivers noticeable low-end presence. The combination of a 33-inch bar and a separate sub makes it ideal for medium-sized rooms where you need both coverage and physical bass impact. The Bluetooth 5.3 connection streams with minimal latency, so music playback stays in sync.

Setup is genuinely fast—plug the subwoofer into the bar with the included RCA cable, connect to your TV via ARC or Optical, and power on. The remote controls volume, source, and bass level directly, with no app required. Users consistently note that the sound is clearer than TV speakers with zero audio delay when using the ARC connection, which is a common frustration with cheaper Bluetooth-only bars.

The build quality is solid for the price, with an ABS enclosure that keeps weight manageable for wall mounting. The cable connecting the bar to the subwoofer is about 10 feet, which gives enough slack to place the sub in a corner for deeper resonance. If you want the highest wattage and a wired sub without spending premium-tier money, this is your anchor option.

Why it’s great

  • 120W total output with wired subwoofer for physical low-end
  • Bluetooth 5.3 with no audio delay in wireless streaming
  • Direct bass level control on the remote, no app needed

Good to know

  • Subwoofer cable length (~10 ft) may limit placement options
  • ABS build feels less premium than metal or fabric-wrapped bars
Compact Choice

7. Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar (HTS100F)

Bass ReflexS-Force Pro

The Sony S100F is the smallest and most purpose-built bar in this list, designed specifically for home offices, secondary TVs, and compact living spaces where a subwoofer would be overkill. The Bass Reflex speaker port extends low-end response slightly below what a sealed 2.0 bar can achieve, giving movies and music a subtle warmth without needing a separate sub. The S-Force Pro Front Surround processing widens the soundstage enough to fill a small room.

Dialogue clarity is the standout feature here. The Voice enhancement mode is dedicated to lifting vocal frequencies, which makes a real difference for conference calls, news broadcasts, and quiet dialogue scenes where actors whisper. The HDMI ARC connection enables TV remote control, though some users report needing to power-cycle both devices during initial setup to get reliable auto-standby behavior. Optical input is available as a backup.

The build quality feels denser and more refined than comparably priced plastic bars, and the slim silhouette (just 2.4 inches tall) slides under any monitor or TV without blocking the screen. The included wall-mount template and optical cable reduce setup friction. For a desk setup or a bedroom TV where space and clean aesthetics are the priority, the Sony S100F is the right fit.

Why it’s great

  • Bass Reflex port adds warmth without a separate subwoofer
  • Voice enhancement mode significantly lifts dialogue clarity
  • Ultra-compact profile fits desk setups and small TV stands

Good to know

  • Initial HDMI ARC setup may require a power-cycle sequence
  • No wired subwoofer output available for expansion

FAQ

Can I use this soundbar with my Roku TV?
Yes, most soundbars connect to Roku TVs via HDMI ARC or Optical, but the Philips B5109 is specifically Roku TV Ready, meaning the Roku remote controls power and volume natively. Other bars like the Sony S100F also work after initial setup, but you may need to use the soundbar’s own remote for some functions.
What does Dolby Atmos in an under $100 bar actually do?
Dolby Atmos in a 2.0 channel bar uses psychoacoustic processing to simulate overhead sound effects. It does not create true physical height channels, but the TCL S45H demonstrates that effective spatial processing can make you perceive sounds as coming from above and behind, especially with carefully mixed Atmos content. It is a meaningful upgrade over standard stereo if you watch Atmos-enabled movies.
Do I need a separate subwoofer for good bass?
Not necessarily. Bars with built-in woofers like the Samsung HW B400F produce enough bass for small rooms and casual watching. However, if you watch action films or play games that rely on low-end impact, a wired subwoofer (like the one included with the RIOWOIS) delivers physically felt rumble that no 2.0 bar can match at this price.

Final Thoughts: The Verdict

For most users, the best $100 soundbar winner is the Samsung B-Series HW B400F because it combines seamless one-remote control with Samsung TV users, built-in bass that improves on TV speakers, and a Voice Enhance Mode that solves the most common complaint about modern flat-screen audio. If you want deep, physical bass for action movies and gaming, grab the RIOWOIS 3.1ch with its dedicated wired subwoofer. And for spatial audio without a subwoofer that still feels immersive, nothing beats the TCL S45H with Dolby Atmos and AI room calibration.