Sonos
Sonos Arc Ultra
8.9
Buy it if you want the best all-in-one Dolby Atmos soundbar with excellent dialogue and room to add a sub and rear speakers later.
Illustration, not a photo of this exact model
Sonos · Soundbars
Sonos Beam (Gen 2)
Compact Atmos soundbar with great dialogue. Great if you want a compact soundbar with clear dialogue for a bedroom or apartment TV.
Our verdict
8.5
Recommended Reader rating
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Researched: specs, expert tests and owner reviews How we evaluate
Where it ranks in our shortlists
- #3Best Soundbars (2026)Best compact
- Buy it if
- You want a compact soundbar with clear dialogue for a bedroom or apartment TV.
- Skip it if
- You want deep bass without adding a subwoofer.
Check price at Amazon Paid link
- Best for
- Mid-size rooms
- Stand-out feature
- Compact Atmos soundbar with great dialogue
- Typical US price
- $369–$499
Is the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) worth buying?
Yes, for most people. It is the right buy if you want a compact soundbar with clear dialogue for a bedroom or apartment TV. We score it 8.5 out of 10.
A fair price to pay
$369–$499
Usual price range in the US. At or below $369 is a good deal. Paying more than the top of the range? Check another store, or wait for a sale.
Want to spend less?
VIZIO V21x-J8 2.1 Home Theater Sound Bar
7.7
Usually $99–$149. Pick it if you want clearer dialogue and fuller sound than your TV speakers for about $100.
Our higher-rated pick
8.9
Usually $899–$999. Pick it if you want the best all-in-one Dolby Atmos soundbar with excellent dialogue and room to add a sub and rear speakers later.
Before you check out
- Buy from the store itself or the brand’s official shop, so the manufacturer warranty applies.
- Match the exact model name. Older or regional versions are often listed under a similar name.
- Check the return window and who pays for returns before you order.
Check price at Amazon Paid link
Pros and cons
Pros
- Clear dialogue
- Compact size fits under most TVs
- Easy to expand with Sonos speakers
Cons
- Atmos effect is virtual
- Limited bass on its own
Key specifications
| Connection | HDMI eARC |
|---|---|
| Width | About 25.6 in (65 cm) |
Reader reviews
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Also worth a look
Other soundbars we rate highly.
Samsung
Samsung HW-Q990D
8.7
Buy it if you want true surround sound with a sub and rear speakers in a single purchase, especially with a Samsung TV.
Bose
Bose Smart Soundbar
7.8
Buy it if you already own Bose speakers or headphones and want a compact Atmos bar that works with them.
Recommended, 8.5/10Sonos Beam (Gen 2)
Check price at Amazon