Soundbars have taken centre stage in the world of home audio over the past decade, and for good reason. Their slim, stylish designs and plug-and-play functionality make them a convenient choice for enhancing your TV’s sound without the complexity of a full home theatre setup. But if you already own a soundbar, or you’re comparing models for the first time in 2025, the big question is: Is it really worth upgrading? Or are budget models still doing the job just fine?
The soundbar market has evolved rapidly, with new technologies like Dolby Atmos, wireless subwoofers, voice control, and room calibration making their way into even mid-range options. But with price tags ranging from under £100 to over £1,200, buyers are often left confused by the wide spread in both specs and cost. Knowing what you’re paying for—and whether those features align with your needs—is key to making a smart decision.
That’s where platforms like https://www.daddyprice.co.uk come in. By offering side-by-side comparisons of the latest models and real-time price updates from major UK retailers, they help you avoid overspending and ensure you’re getting maximum value for your money. Whether you’re replacing an older unit or buying your first, a proper price comparison can make a significant difference.
Budget vs Premium: What Are You Really Paying For?
Budget soundbars today are far better than their predecessors. A £100 model in 2025 often features Bluetooth streaming, decent bass response, and HDMI ARC connectivity. For example, the Creative Stage V2 (around £99) or TCL S643W (about £129) offer clear dialogue and punchy sound for casual movie nights or streaming sessions. They’re ideal for flats, small rooms, or anyone upgrading from tinny built-in TV speakers.
But premium models come with major advantages. You’ll find wider soundstages, upward-firing drivers for immersive Atmos, voice assistant integration, and multi-room compatibility. The Sonos Arc (around £799) or the Sennheiser Ambeo Plus (approx. £1,199) deliver sound that can genuinely rival entry-level home theatre setups. You’re not just buying volume—you’re paying for spatial depth, clarity, and adaptability.
Top Picks by Price Range
Here’s a breakdown of 2025’s standout models across different budgets, based on both performance and value:
- Under £150: TCL S643W, LG SP2, and Sharp HT-SBW202 – Great for first-time buyers or spare rooms.
- £150–£400: Samsung HW-Q600C, Yamaha YAS-209, or JBL Bar 500 – These offer real power and Dolby Digital support.
- £400–£800: Sonos Beam Gen 2, Denon DHT-S716H – A solid middle ground with smart features.
- £800+: Sonos Arc, Sennheiser Ambeo Plus, Bose Smart Ultra – The crème de la crème with immersive capabilities.
These price brackets often overlap depending on retailer discounts. That’s why checking multiple sources—or using a dedicated comparison site—is so valuable before purchase. A £699 model might drop to £549 for one week only.
Important Features to Consider
Whether you’re buying budget or premium, your soundbar should serve your actual usage habits. Ask yourself:
- Do I want Atmos? It adds depth but only works well if the room supports it (e.g., low ceiling height).
- Is a separate subwoofer essential? Some bars include them, others don’t. If you watch a lot of action films, it’s worth it.
- Do I use voice assistants? Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri can enhance usability—but only if you’ll use them regularly.
- How many HDMI ports do I need? Most bars only have one, which may not be enough if you want passthrough for multiple devices.
Some features are exciting on paper but irrelevant in practice. Prioritise audio performance, ease of use, and compatibility with your setup over flashy extras.
Is It Time to Upgrade?
If your current soundbar lacks HDMI ARC, sounds weak during dialogue-heavy scenes, or doesn’t support your newer TV’s features, an upgrade is worth considering. Newer models are smarter, louder, and more immersive—especially those supporting DTS:X or Dolby Atmos. Even moving from a 2.0 to a 3.1 setup can drastically improve clarity, especially for dialogue.
That said, if your existing bar is under three years old, still performs well, and your room doesn’t allow much more, you might be better off waiting—unless you spot a stellar deal during sale periods like Black Friday or Amazon Prime Day.
Sales, Timing and Retail Variability
The same model can vary by £50–£200 depending on retailer, stock levels, and current promotions. Big tech stores might include bundles or longer warranties, while online sellers might cut costs to stay competitive. Checking every site manually is exhausting—that’s why tools like price comparison engines are so essential.
Buying at the right moment—end of season, around major sale events, or during new model launches—can save you more than you think. If you’re not in a rush, tracking your preferred models for price drops is a wise strategy.
So, Should You Spend More?
Only if it fits your needs. A £1,000 soundbar will sound amazing—but not necessarily in a small room. Conversely, a £150 soundbar might blow you away if you’re upgrading from TV speakers. Match the product to the space, not just the price tag. And don’t underestimate the impact of comparison shopping—it could be the difference between good and exceptional value.