WIRED names Sonos Arc Ultra its best overall soundbar for 2026
WIRED’s latest buying guide ranks soundbars across sound quality, surround performance, connectivity, calibration and expandability.
WIRED has published its 2026 soundbar buying guide, assessing models from Sonos, LG, TCL, Bose, Klipsch, Focal, Sony, Bluesound, Polk, KEF and Samsung for home theatre use.
The publication names the Sonos Arc Ultra its best overall soundbar, citing its balance of performance across films, games and music. WIRED also highlights its Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, room calibration and ability to produce convincing spatial audio.
WIRED rates the LG Sound Suite H7 strongest for surround sound, particularly when paired with the optional LG W7 subwoofer and LG M7 satellite speakers. The system uses Dolby Atmos FlexConnect and requires additional setup, networking and room calibration.
For smaller budgets and spaces, WIRED presents the TCL A65K as a compact, cheaper option. The soundbar includes a wireless subwoofer and offers clearer dialogue, stronger bass and more detailed vocals than built-in television or projector speakers, although its smaller design limits its spatial impact.
Other models are recognised for more specialised strengths. WIRED describes the Klipsch Flexus Core 300 as particularly loud and bass-heavy, the Focal Mu-So Hekla as powerful and premium, and the Bose Smart Soundbar as a compact option with broad connectivity. Its assessments are based on hands-on testing and represent reviewer judgements rather than independent laboratory measurements.
The guide also explains that adding satellite speakers or subwoofers can make simulated surround sound more realistic. Dolby Atmos uses upward-firing drivers to create the impression of sound from above, while room size, open spaces and unusual architecture can affect performance and make calibration valuable.
