The Best Chromecast Soundbar For 2024

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
Polk Audio Signa S3 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Polk Audio Signa S3 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar

With Dolby Digital 5.1 decoding, POLK’s exclusive Voice Adjust Technology, and three distinct settings, you won’t miss a word of your favorite shows. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: JBL Bar 9.1 Channel Soundbar

The sleek and slim soundbar design includes 3 HDMI inputs for seamless connectivity with your TV, Blu-Ray player, or game console. Read Review

3. Best For Dialogue: Sony Z9F 3.1ch Sound bar

With Dolby Atmos DTS: X and a vertical sound engine, this audio system will immerse you in surround sound for the ultimate home theater experience. Read Review

4. Best For Surround Sound: VIZIO Elevate Sound Bar for TV

The sound bar features a built-in subwoofer and two wide-range speakers to give you up to 107dB of room-filling, and crystal clear audio. Read Review

While most TVs have speakers that are capable of decent sound for everyday viewing, they aren’t ideal for watching movies or listening to music. For larger sounds such as dialog or music in a movie, you’ll probably want to upgrade your TV speaker setup with a soundbar.

Nowadays, many soundbars are equipped with built-in Chromecast. Chromecast audio is a great way to listen to streaming services such as Pandora, Spotify, Google Play Music, TuneIn Radio, iHeartRadio, and many others on your TV without an additional speaker setup directly against the wall behind it.

Below, you will find our top choices for the best Chromecast soundbars to level up your home audio system. With a sleek and low-profile design, our Polk Audio Signa S3 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar can fit perfectly into any room while offering clarity enhancement for vocals of your favorite TV shows and movies. If you prefer a more high-end and cutting-edge option, then we suggest checking out our JBL Bar 9.1 Channel Soundbar.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Polk Audio Signa S3 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar
Our Score:
9.7
Polk Audio
  • EXCELLENT SOUND AND VALUE on par with any mid- to high-range sound bars available in the market. At 2" tall, the Signa S3 fits most spaces — easily wall-mount it or place in front of your TV. It won’t block your TV’s bottom edge or IR remote sensor
  • SET UP YOUR SOUND BAR IN MINUTES — the included HDMI and optical cables quickly connect your TV and subwoofer to the sound bar
  • UPGRADE YOUR HOME THEATER SURROUND SOUND SYSTEM – Watch your favorite shows on your 4K and 8K HD Smart TV with exceptional picture quality & clear sound. With numerous connection possibilities, plug in any audio source via HDMI ARC, optical input & 3.5mm audio jack
  • POLK’S EXCLUSIVE VOICE ADJUST TECHNOLOGY & Dolby Digital 5.1 Decoding helps maximize sound clarity & reduces voice delays. Hear clear, crisp dialogue of your favorite movies, TV shows and sporting events with three distinct settings
  • ULTRA-SLIM SOUNDBAR WITH WIRELESS SUBWOOFER – Features 2.1 channel performance-tuned drivers - (2) 1.25” x 4.4”oval mid-range drivers & (2) 1” Tweeters, and the included 5.25” subwoofer delivers INCREDIBLE ROOM-FILLING SOUND WITH DEEP BASS
  • WIRELESSLY STREAM MUSIC from your favorite streaming apps like Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn, and more from your smartphone, tablet or other compatible devices via Bluetooth, or use Google Chromecast to listen to music over Wi-Fi with your Google Home speaker
TOP Choice #2 JBL Bar 9.1 Channel Soundbar
Our Score:
9.6
JBL
  • Ultra HD 4K Pass-through with Dolby Vision
  • Power Source Type: Corded Electric
  • Experience deep bass with a 300W, 10" powered subwoofer
  • With detachable, battery powered surround speakers you can enjoy real surround sound without the wires
  • Built-in Dolby Atmos and DTS: X decoding
  • Connector Type: Optical
  • Wireless Communication Technology: Wi-Fi
  • Included Components: Main Soundbar, Detachable Wireless Surround Speakers (2), Wireless Subwoofer Remote Control, Power Cords, Hdmi Cable, (2)L-Shape Wall-Mount Bracket (Main Bar), (2) U-Shape Wall-Mount Bracket (For Surround Speakers), Kit With Screws
  • 820W Output power
TOP Choice #3 Sony Z9F 3.1ch Sound bar
Our Score:
9.4
Sony
  • Voice enhancement for greater clarity
  • Ultimate Home Theater Upgrade with 3.1ch Dolby Atmos DTS: X and Vertical Sound Engine
  • 4K HDR compatible
  • Stream and control audio content with your favorite smart devices
  • Wireless Subwoofer included
  • Seven sound modes for enhanced movies, music, gaming, news and sport
  • High-resolution Audio capable
  • Built-in Wi-Fi and easy BLUETOOTH streaming
  • Stream music, online radio, and podcasts from your Amazon connected device directly to your Z9F soundbar. Just ask Alexa.
  • In the box: Remote (RMT-AH400U), Batteries for remote, HDMI Cable, Wall Hanging Bracket (with screws x 2), Wall Mount Template
4 VIZIO Elevate Sound Bar for TV
Our Score:
9.2
VIZIO
  • 18 high-performance speakers Unrivaled home theater performance.
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS:X: Cinematic sound around and above.
  • 4 Upfiring Speakers Reflects enveloping sound overhead off your ceiling.
  • Incredibly Life-like Sound The 107dB sound pressure level and 30Hz – 20KHz frequency range deliver dynamic and accurate sound.
  • Adaptive Height Speakers Automatically rotate to optimize your audio experience.
5 JBL BAR 5.0 5-Channel Multibeam Soundbar
Our Score:
9.0
JBL
  • Dolby Atmos and MultiBeam surround sound gives you an immersive and exciting 3D sound experience and a wide soundstage.
  • Certified for Humans – Smart home made easy for non-experts. Setup with Alexa is simple.
  • With AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music and Chromecast built-in, you can stream all your favorite online content in amazing sound quality, with a simple finger tap.
  • Punchy bass without the need for a separate subwoofer thanks to four passive radiators built-in.
  • Dolby Vision coupled with 4K pass through will allow enjoy pristine video quality.
6 Sony HT-A5000 5.1.2ch Sound Bar
Our Score:
8.9
Sony
  • Integrates with your connected devices with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa
  • Stream your way with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, and Apple AirPlay
  • Fully enjoy the thrill of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X with Vertical Surround Engine, S-Force Pro Front Surround and 360 Spatial Sound Mapping
  • Premium omni-directional block design and wireless tv connection
  • 360 Spatial Sound that adapts to your environment available with optional rear speakers
  • Customize your setup with two subwoofer choices and rear speakers sets (sold separately)
  • Vivid visuals and responsive game play with 8K and 4K/120 passthrough
  • Sound Field Optimization calibrates to your environment for easy set up
  • Pairs with BRAVIA for easy access to soundbar controls and Acoustic Center Sync
  • Immerse yourself in supreme music quality with Hi-Res Audio and 360 Reality Audio
7 Philips B8905 Soundbar
Our Score:
8.7
Philips Audio
  • HEIGHTEN THE EXCITEMENT with Dolby Atmos’ unique 3D sound technology. The two upfiring speakers create a dome of sound, so you feel soundwaves ripple above your head every time a helicopter passes on screen.
  • CONNECT WITH AMAZON ECHO OR DIGITAL ASSISTANT DEVICES: Ask Alexa-enabled devices or any speaker that works with Google Assistant to play music through the soundbar. Skip tracks and control playback hands-free. This works with Apple AirPlay 2 too.
  • STREAM HIGH QUALITY MUSIC WIRELESSLY WITH EASE: You can stream your favorite songs and playlists from your mobile devices through Spotify Connect, Chromecast, and Apple AirPlay 2 via Wi-Fi. Or enjoy total compatibility with Bluetooth streaming too.
  • EXPAND INTO A TRUE SURROUND-SOUND SYSTEM by setting up additional Play-Fi speakers (sold separately). You can sync and group your devices with the DTS Play-Fi app and stream your favorite playlist to every room without dropping a beat.
  • UNLEASH EPIC SOUND: With 600 W of max output power and 360 W RMS, this 3.1.2 soundbar fills the room with rich, nuanced soundtrack and thunderous effects. The dedicated center speaker delivers crystal clear dialogue.
8 MAJORITY K2 Soundbar
Our Score:
8.6
Majority
  • DIMENSIONS: 30 x 2 x 3 inches; 7.4lbs
  • COMPATIBLE WITH PROJECTORS, TV, PHONE AND PC: Using the assortment of connectivity options, the K2 can be connected to your phone, computer and most TVs using Bluetooth, Optical Input and RCA input.
  • MULTI-CONNECTION: The K2 boasts a wide range of connections including Bluetooth, USB input, Optical input, RCA, AUX-input and HDMI ARC. The K2 comes with an RCA cable. Designed for the eager audiophile, you can select which audio mode you want to listen to: Music, Movies or Dialogue.
  • WIRELESS SUBWOOFER: Delivering high definition sound, the K2’s stereo speakers fill the room with your favourite sounds.
  • 2.1 SURROUND SOUND: With 2.1 Channel Sound, the K2 offers a superior audio experience for any home entertainment set-up.
9 Polk Audio MagniFi 2 Sound Bar
Our Score:
8.5
Polk Audio
  • WIRELESSLY STREAM MUSIC with built-in GOOGLE CHROMECAST from your smartphone and other compatible Bluetooth devices for a multi-room system. Cast your favorite music tracks and enjoy unlimited playback using Pandora, Spotify, Deezer, and more
  • ENDLESS CONNECTION OPTIONS – Features (3) 4K HDMI Inputs, 1 HDMI ARC Output, an Optical and 3.5mm Auxiliary inputs. Connect to a multitude of devices using BLUETOOTH, USB and Wi-Fi and use Chromecast-enabled speakers to play music throughout your home
  • UNIVERSALLY COMPATIBLE WITH 4K and HD TVs - Enjoy a cinematic experience with Dolby Digital & DTS audio, and pristine clarity with Dolby Vision, and INDEPENDENT MODES FOR MOVIES, MUSIC, AND SPORTS bring out the best of home cinema
  • Polk's exclusive VOICE ADJUST & SDA TECHNOLOGY let you CONTROL VOICE LEVELS maximizing sound clarity and minimizing voice delays and muzzled sounds, creating an expansive soundstage with realistic imaging
  • BIGGER, MORE DYNAMIC SURROUND SOUND - Equipped with 6 powerful drivers - (4) 1" x 3" full-range drivers & (2) 0.75" tweeters, MagniFi 2 produces multi-dimensional audio, superior to any traditional sound bar
  • INCLUDES A PLUG-AND-PLAY WIRELESS SUBWOOFER that is instantly recognized by the soundbar the moment you power it on. An 8" DOWNWARD FIRING DRIVER fills your living room, or media room with high-impact surround sound and deep, heart-thumping bass
  • MAGNIFI NOW WITH 3D AUDIO - Virtual height effects and wireless subwoofer deliver an incredible room-filling and truly immersive 3D listening experience comparable to that of a concert or theater
  • NO HASSLE OF USING MULTIPLE REMOTES - Polk MagniFi 2 comes with an INFRARED REMOTE that controls both your TV and the Soundbar. It is compatible with all major TVs manufacturers like Samsung, LG, Vizio, TCL and Sony
  • Multi-Platform Support (Alexa, Google Assistant, Chromecast, Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect)
  • High Resolution Audio 24bit/192kHz with 4K Passthrough (HDCP 2.3)
  • Meridian Audio Technology
  • 5.1.2ch with 520W Total Output Power
  • Dolby Atmos & DTS:X
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What Are the Most Critical Aspects of best chromecast soundbar That You Should Concentrate on?

You must know the best chromecast soundbar to make a substantial purchase. There's a slew of additional issues which have to be looked at and assessed. Each commodity has its own set of difficulties. As a result, you can rely on us to give you comprehensive counsel and support.

You might quickly become overwhelmed in your quest for the best chromecast soundbar because there are so many models and features. Avoid being suffocated by an expensive item that only serves to take up room in your cupboard by following our advice.

Wi-Fi And Bluetooth

Bluetooth is an important soundbar feature that allows you stream music from compatible phones, tablets and computers to your soundbar. Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to stream music from your Spotify account or access cloud music libraries.

Size

To ensure that the unit will not block the screen, or interfere with the remote control or display of your TV's remote, check its dimensions. You should also check that the design of the unit matches your TV.

Wired/wireless Speakers

Some soundbars allow for wired and wireless connection to other speakers. Some soundbars only support a subwoofer. However, a few models offer "surround sound" connectivity, which allows you to connect other speakers to the rear of the room to replicate 5.1. You can purchase these speakers separately or as a bundle at an extra cost.

Subwoofer

In large rooms, a soundbar with an external subwoofer (or dedicated soundbar) can be more effective than one without it. A subwoofer that is well made will enhance low-end sound quality and add a cinematic vibe to your system. A sub that is poorly designed can cause a drop in sound quality. A soundbase is a great option if you need bass, but aren't able to fit an external sub. They include an integrated subwoofer.

Additional Features

You might also want these features in your soundbar:
There are special sound modes for various audio types, such as watching movies, listening to music, or gaming. You can adjust the treble and bass settings depending on what you are watching/listening too.
Compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa for voice-controlled music.
Front-panel displays that display important information, such as volume levels. Make sure to check if this display is able to be switched off when it's not in use so that it does not become distracting.

Ease Of Set-up And Use

It is easy to hook up the soundbar with your TV or other device and get started using it immediately. This can be gauged by looking at the manual or reading some user reviews.

Connectivity

Soundbars typically only require one cable to connect with your TV. HDMI is the best choice. Make sure that your soundbar is equipped with all necessary ports for connecting to Blu-ray players and USB storage. You should check if your soundbar has a pass-through function that transmits 4K HDR video from your 4K HDR TV.

Number Of Channels And Speakers

A soundbar with just 2.1 channels may be enough to enhance the audio quality of your TV. A 5.1 and 7.1 models might offer better sound quality when you watch TV/movies or listen to audio. Dolby Atmos is available on 5.1.2 and 7.1.2 models. This technology allows for a richer experience. It involves placing speakers higher than the roof, to create sound from above.

FAQs

Can You Add A Subwoofer To A Sound Bar?

Wireless sound bars often come with a subwoofer. You can also add your own wireless subwoofer to the sound bars that do not have one. If you desire an immersive experience, you'll want it.

Will A Soundbar Improve Sound Quality?

Modern TVs have very tiny speakers which bounce sound off of your TV. As a result, they can be distant and harsh. A soundbar can be added to most TVs to improve their sound quality, particularly when it comes down to reproducing spoken words. It will also allow you to listen to music.

Can You Add Speakers To A Sound Bar?

There are both yes and no. Some sound bars have additional speakers that can be added to the system, which brings you closer to home theatre sound. If the soundbar is multi-room compatible, then wireless rear speakers can be added. This is a good option for those who have or want to install a multi-room sound system in their home.

Can A Sound Bar Be Used As A Center Speaker?

There are some that can and others that can't, but it's not something we recommend. Although a passive soundbar could technically be used to provide center channel speakers, this is not what it was designed for. This is like asking a pitcher to play both catch and second base instead of the only position that he excels at.

Are Soundbars Really Worth It?

They are well worth the investment when compared to how loud your TV sounds. A soundbar costs only $100 and can make your TV viewing experience 10x better. A soundbar can make it easier to understand speech by allowing TV speakers to face down.

Where Do I Place My Soundbar?

The soundbars can be placed directly in front of your TV using a stand, or any other type of furniture. They are usually less than 2 inches high so they won't interfere with the infrared remote port of your TV or block it. Some soundbars are also wall-mountable and include brackets. There are third-party kits that can be used to mount soundbars on the wall.

Can You Use Any Soundbar With Any TV?

There are very few exceptions to this rule. However, you can still use your soundbar with any TV. It is helpful sometimes to match soundbar and TV brands. New soundbars often use HDMI ARC to transmit the audio from the TV's speakers through the soundbar. If both of your devices have this port, you are good. An optical connection is available on some older soundbars, and almost all TVs have them.

Can You Use A Soundbar To Play Music?

A soundbar can make music play through your TV much more enjoyable. Bluetooth is a feature that many soundbars offer, so you won't have to turn on the TV to hear your music. A soundbar that has a wireless subwoofer will work best to reproduce deep bass and dynamics.

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About Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward is an elite author with many years of experience in the music field and the owner of many engaging articles at TheAudioInsights. He studies music production and has many years of passionate research into sound systems. Appearing in many popular newspapers, Nicolas Ward provides useful knowledge and the latest information on music and sound.