The best LG soundbars should crisp, clear audio thanks to a Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) below 1.0 and packing a punch with a volume that goes above 85 dB. But when buying your next one, you should know there is a problem of low quality or fake expert reviews. 92% of reviewers don’t actually test the soundbars and as a result you might end up making an expensive mistake. That’s why we verify each of our 140+ soundbars as certified tested and shortlist the best 3 based on our True Score, a product rating system based on actual test data, expert and customer ratings. Our aim is to guide you to the best soundbar that offers both high-quality audio and the convenience features you value most in your home entertainment setup.
Below is our list of the 3 best LG soundbars. No matter what movie you watch or game you play, you’ll feel the “punch” of the immersive onscreen action.
How Did We Rank the Best LG Soundbars?
We’ve redefined soundbar buying guides, setting us apart from any other site on the planet. Our unique approach leverages a comprehensive dataset from 200+ trusted sites, focusing on key testing metrics (2 required, 2 nice to have) and 1 specification to rank the top-rated LG soundbars and ensure our recommendations meet your specific needs. Our commitment to unbiased reviews is powered by our ‘True Score’ system, targeting low quality and fake reviews. When you shop through our links, you’re backing our mission. Dive deeper to see how.
🛠️ Minimum Specifications
- Must be LG
🧪 Test Criteria
- Total Harmonic Distortion: A total harmonic distortion (THD) below 1% at 80 decibels to guarantee high-fidelity audio reproduction without unwanted frequencies.
- Volume Output: The soundbar should be able to deliver a powerful and immersive sound performance, exceeding 85 decibels in volume output.
👍 “Nice To Haves”
- Latency: With a latency under 100 milliseconds, it ensures minimal delay in data transmission or audio processing.
- Low-End Roll Off: A low-end roll-off of <45 Hz to ensure there is plenty of thump and rumble in the bass to enhance your music or movie-watching experience.
Latest Updates
- 04/09/2024: Published the list of best LG soundbars based on our True Score system.
Top LG Soundbars For 2024
Prices accurate at the time of publishing
In order to be included on our list, a LG soundbar must meet our standards for audio performance and quality. Any product failing to meet these criteria will not be featured.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
LG S90QY
With its excellent sound clarity and balanced audio performance, the LG S90QY is a great choice for movies and music enthusiasts looking for a mid-range soundbar with minimal compromises.
True Score
81802Experts
87802Customers
Absolutely Fresh
$429.95Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- The LG S90QY soundbar delivers impressive, theater-like sound quality
- Good port selection
- Subwoofer adds significant low bass range to the audio experience
- Unboxing and configuring the soundbar is a hassle-free process
- Sound quality rivals higher-priced brands, providing value for its cost
- Many options for wireless connectivity
- Wide-ranging audio format support
- Dolby Atmos helps create immersive, spatial soundscapes
- Remote control’s design and usability make navigating settings a breeze
Reasons to Avoid
- Poor surround sound performance
- No graphic Eq for precise sound customization
- No rear satellite speakers
Specifications
Bluetooth Enabled Yes Depth 5.3" Dialogue Enhancement Feature Yes Energy Star Certified No HDMI ARC Yes Height 2.5" Number of Audio Channels 5.1.3 Subwoofer Included Surround Sound Supported Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced Voice Assistant Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant Wall Mountable Yes Weight 11.1 lbs Width 47.2" Wireless Connectivity Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Wireless Subwoofer Connectivity Yes Works With Amazon Alexa, Bluetooth, Google Assistant, Remote Control, Wi-Fi Test Results
Low End Roll Off (Hz) 54.17 High End Roll Off (Hz) 15.34k Max Volume Test (db) 92.3 Latency (ms) 85 THD @ 80dB 0.64 All Retailers
$429.95Availability
In StockFree Shipping
$519.99Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No
$546.99$1,200Save $653Availability
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No
$549.99$800Save $250Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No
Our Verdict
If you’re a movie buff or a casual music listener, LG’s S90QY offers great audio response and soundstage for a mid-range price. The LG S90QY handles lower frequencies well, with a low-end roll-off at 54.17 Hz, but it does compromise a bit on reaching really far down and replicating truly deep thrums and booms from music and movies. On the high-end, however, the soundbar features a roll-off at 15342.66 Hz, meaning all of the fine details in music and dialogue are crisply and clearly reproduced.
Thanks to a max volume of 92.3 dB, the soundbar provides plenty of headroom for just about anything you want to listen to. It’s able to fill any room with rich, vibrant sound without any compromise on clarity. This is thanks to a low total harmonic distortion of just 0.64, meaning the LG S90QY maintains a clean and accurate audio output devoid of unwanted noise or distortion. This combination is essential if you’re seeking an immersive listening experience, whether it’s for movies or movies.
The soundbar’s 85 ms latency means it is a bit less suited for video games and fast-paced action movies. It’s not bad—far from it, it’s quite good—but the delay may affect you if you’re a competitive gamer or have an ear for catching extremely minor mismatches in audio and video.
Despite the slightly higher latency, the LG S90QY soundbar excels across various entertainment formats, from TV shows and movies to gaming and music. Its excellent balance between loudness and sound clarity, alongside its capability to deliver detailed audio across the sound spectrum with only a minor compromise in the bass, make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to buy a soundbar at a reasonable, mid-range price.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
LG S75Q Soundbar
The LG S75Q stands out for its impressive volume and decent bass performance at a budget-friendly price, perfect for casual listening, gaming, and movie watching.
True Score
80793Experts
86890Customers
Absolutely Fresh
$346.99Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Great for dialogue focussed content
- Loud max volume
- Allows for sound customization
- Ideal sound customization options
- Good latency for in-sync audio-visuals
Reasons to Avoid
- No built-in support for voice assistants
- No WiFi connectivity
Specifications
Bluetooth Enabled Yes Depth 4.69" Dialogue Enhancement Feature Yes Energy Star Certified n/a HDMI ARC Yes Height 2.56" Number of Audio Channels 3.1.2 Subwoofer Build-in Surround Sound Supported Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS Digital Surround, DTS-HD, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS:X Voice Assistant Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Yes Wall Mountable Yes Weight 8.3 lbs Width 35.4" Wireless Connectivity Bluetooth, Wireless Wireless Subwoofer Connectivity Yes Works With Bluetooth, Remote Control Test Results
Low End Roll Off (Hz) 54.17 High End Roll Off (Hz) 1.4k Max Volume Test (db) 94.9 Latency (ms) 75 THD @ 80dB 0.6 All Retailers
- $346.99
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes - $414.99$487Save $72
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a budget soundbar that’s still part of LG’s excellent lineup, the S75Q is a solid choice that offers up plenty of volume and good bass at a great price. It boasts a robust max volume of 94.9 dB, the best in its class. Coupled with its low total harmonic distortion of 0.6, the soundbar is capable of projecting loud and distortion-free audio across a large space, making it an ideal companion for lively gatherings or immersive movie nights at home.
The primary place the LG S75Q’s performance shows any sign of struggling is in the low-frequency range, with a low-end roll-off at 54.17 Hz. This means the soundbar provides a decent bass experience, suitable for enhancing the depth of movie soundtracks and the punch in music genres reliant on lower frequencies, even if it doesn’t quite hit into the super low sub-bass where sounds go from in your ear to “in your chest.” The soundbar also struggles with high-end roll-off, which starts at just 1,395.85 Hz. While the roll-off isn’t extremely dramatic, it is enough that most of the treble range will be quieter.
The decent latency of 75 ms makes the S75Q a good choice for gamers on a budget. Its good bass, passable treble, and great max volume can add lots of punch to action games. The bass is good enough for rumbles and explosions, and the lower treble response won’t be nearly as missed here.
If you’re an audiophile, the S75Q is an easy pass because it doesn’t reach deep enough into the low or high enough into the high end. However, if you’re playing games, watching TV shows, or just enjoying movies where you don’t need the deepest bass or extremely crisp highs, the S75Q delivers loud, clear, and distortion-free audio. Given its much fairer price tag, included soundbar, and support for Dolby Atmos, it’s a good, solid choice.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
LG SP11RA
The LG SP11RA offers an immersive audio experience with exceptional clarity and depth across a wide range of content, making it ideal for anyone seeking premium sound performance.
True Score
77765Experts
8216Customers
Mixed Reviews
SAVE $403$1,699.99$1,296.99Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Great sound quality
- Fair surround performance
- Good voice clarity
- Emphasized bass response
- Smart features and great connectivity
Reasons to Avoid
- Lackluster Atmos performance
- No voice assistant support
Specifications
Bluetooth Enabled Yes Depth 5.7" Dialogue Enhancement Feature Yes Energy Star Certified No Equalizer Settings Basic HDMI ARC Yes Height 2.5" Number of Audio Channels 7.1.4 Subwoofer Included Surround Sound Supported Dolby Atmos Voice Assistant No Weight 44.8 lbs Width 56.8" Wireless Connectivity Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Wireless Subwoofer Connectivity Yes Works With Bluetooth, Smartphone app Test Results
Low End Roll Off (Hz) 35.13 High End Roll Off (Hz) 14.91k Max Volume Test (db) 92.5 Latency (ms) -9 THD @ 80dB 0.6 All Retailers
- $1,296.99$1,700Save $403
Availability
Not availableFree Shipping
No Availability
Free Shipping
Our Verdict
Thanks to its immersive audio experience, the LG SP11RA shows LG’s commitment to high-quality sound engineering. If you’re trying to fill a larger room with sound, the SP11RA’s max volume of 92.5 dB ensures that it delivers. Plus, the soundbar’s total harmonic distortion of 0.6 means that it delivers clear, undistorted sound even at high volumes.
This makes it perfect for really cranking up action movies or video games, as even the most intense moments won’t become a distorted mess of noise. Paired with the outstanding low latency of -9 ms, gamers will enjoy having basically no delay between on-screen action and the sounds they hear, helping speed up reactions to important cues like footsteps.
Thanks to the best-in-class low-end roll-off at 35.13 Hz, the SP11RA can also give richness and depth to rumbles, explosions, and the thrumming of bass in music. Coupled with an excellent high-end roll of 14,905.89 Hz, the soundbar can also accurately deliver the fine detail of cymbals, chirps, whines, and other high-pitched sounds.
With support for Dolby Atmos and a sophisticated number of audio channels (7.1.4), the LG SP11RA fits into a broad range of use cases. Its superior soundstage and audio fidelity make it great for music, movies, and video games alike. The advanced equalizer settings allow for extra fine-tuning, ensuring that the audio output is always optimized for the best possible listening experience regardless of the content. This adaptability, combined with its standout performance in critical test criteria, makes the SP11RA a prime choice for anyone who wants outstanding audio performance and is willing to pay the premium price tag.
Did you know 92% of soundbar reviewers are
untrustworthy?
Our research found 10 of 122 soundbar reviewers as of April 2024 can be trusted, and shockingly 1 out of 3 on Google Page 1 were fake reviews showing no proof of test claims. See our Expose and Trust List. This is why Gadget Review is committed to calculating the most accurate product scores on the web.
To do this, we give every soundbar review site a Trust Score, which measures how trustworthy the site and their testing claims are. We then leverage AI & a machine learning model to combine and calculate the Trust Score with data from experts and consumers to deliver the True Score, the web’s most accurate product quality rating.
Our Approach to Evaluating LG Soundbars
We’ve redefined soundbar buying guides, setting us apart from any other site on the planet. Our unique approach uses a comprehensive dataset from trusted sites, focusing on key testing metrics like volume output, total harmonic distortion, latency, and low end roll off.
We gather and scrutinize data to ensure that our recommendations cater to specific needs. When it comes to LG soundbars, this involves selecting models known for their outstanding audio quality for watching movies, TV shows or playing video games. Delve into our data-driven approach for precise and reliable soundbar suggestions.
Which Criteria Matters for Testing Best LG Soundbars?
By focusing on these criteria (2 required, 2 nice to have), anyone can quickly and easily compare these soundbars and how they’ll perform. This helps you make an informed decision and purchase a soundbar that is right for you.
| CRITERIA | RANGE | REQUIRED | DEFINITION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Harmonic Distortion | < 1 | Yes | The amount of distortion introduced by the soundbar when it processes an audio signal at a given volume (typically 80, 85 or maximum dB output.) |
| Max Volume | > 85 dB | Yes | The maximum volume that a soundbar reaches when it’s output it turned up to 100%. |
| Low End Roll Off | < 45 Hz | No (nice to have) | The point at which bass begins to sharply fall below the target response point on a frequency response graph, making harder to hear. |
| Latency | < 100 ms | No (nice to have) | The time it takes for a soundbar to process audio signal from a source and output it through the speakers. |
Our Trusted Data Sources
(Publication category Score is 80%+)
We looked at 120+ soundbar reviewers and while 10 are trustworthy (60%+ Trust Score), we only use data from the testers that are “very trusted” which means a Trust Score above 70%. The three we have listed below are our most trusted for soundbars.
Interested in a comprehensive analysis of our data sources? We’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find a detailed list of every soundbar review website we’ve identified, organized by their respective Trust Scores from highest to lowest. But we didn’t stop there. We’ve meticulously reviewed each publication and verified the data by checking whether the authors have bio links to MuckRack or LinkedIn. We’re committed to not only checking the facts but ensuring their veracity.
Soundbars Test Data & Results
1. total harmonic distortion test result
harmonic distortion
< 1
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: The amount of distortion that exists in an audio signal when it is played back at a target volume.
Units of Measurement: None or %
Tools to Measure: Audio Analyzer
Why It’s Important:
High levels of distortion ruin audio quality. Keeping distortion low helps keep music accurate and high-fidelity.
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) measures soundbar fidelity by indicating the percentage of unwanted harmonics added to the original audio. A THD under 1 ensures minimal distortion, crucial for maintaining audio quality in music, movies, and games. Low distortion enhances clarity, preserves detail, and ensures a high-fidelity listening experience, essential for understanding dialogue, appreciating music nuances, and immersing in game sounds.
We recommend soundbars with less than 1% THD because this confirms their ability to accurately reproduce a wide range of audio without noticeable distortion. While complete distortion elimination is impossible, reducing it to imperceptible levels is key. Low THD also enhances comfort during extended use, making it essential for movie, game, or music marathons.
Total Harmonic Distortion (lower is better)
2. max volume test result
max volume
>85 dB
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: The maximum volume that a soundbar is able to hit when the output is turned all the way up.
Units of Measurement: dB (Decibels)
Tools to Measure: Sound level or decibel meter
Why It’s Important:
Max volume is how you ensure you’ve got enough volume to fill large rooms and helps ensure clarity at normal listening levels.
Understanding maximum volume is straightforward—it’s simply how loud the soundbar can get. However, it’s crucial to grasp why loudness matters. Higher maximum volumes not only fill rooms with sound or serve as makeshift party speakers but also ensure clear audio at normal listening levels, known as “headroom.” Adequate headroom means the soundbar can play sounds at a high level with clarity, ensuring distortion-free audio for your everyday music, movies, or games.
We recommend a minimum maximum volume of 85 dB for your soundbar, with 91 dB being ideal. Achieving higher volume capabilities enhances the soundbar’s ability to fill larger spaces with immersive audio. With superior maximum volume, you can enjoy high-quality sound whether you’re watching a movie in a spacious living room or hosting a gathering with friends.
Max Volume (in dB; higher is better)
3. Low end roll off test result
Low-end roll-off is crucial for maximizing bass output in your soundbar. If the roll-off doesn’t begin deep enough into the bass frequencies, you’ll experience weak or even missing bass, diminishing the impact of your music, movies, and games. The longer it takes for the bass to roll off, the better the overall experience.
For most soundbars in typical usage scenarios, we recommend a roll-off that starts no earlier than 45 Hz, although lower is better. While it’s rare to find soundbars with roll-off reaching into the teens, some bass-heavy options may hit 30 Hz before the roll-off begins. Aim for at least 45 Hz to ensure you achieve the deep, powerful bass you desire in your audio experience.
Low end roll off
< 45 Hz
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: The point at which bass begins to sharply decline and becomes rapidly inaudible.
Units of Measurement: Hz (Hertz)
Tools to Measure: Oscilloscope
Why It’s Important:
If bass takes longer to start rolling off, it’ll generally be more present in the audible parts of the audio spectrum put out by a soundbar, giving sound “punch” and “depth.”
Low end roll off (in Hz; lower is better)
4. latency test result
Large amounts of latency create problems when syncing audio and video. Having too much delay between the soundbar audio and the TV images can lead to noticeable mismatches, like people’s mouths moving out of sync with the dialogue. This is particularly problematic for gamers who rely on precise synchronization to accurately hear approaching footsteps.
To avoid these issues, we recommend a latency of less than 100 ms. For most content, this delay is minimal enough that any discrepancies are unlikely to be noticed. However, if you’re a competitive gamer seeking optimal synchronization without additional calibration, look for the lowest latency available. For music and movies, a latency of 100 ms or less will provide a seamless audio-visual experience.
latency
< 100 ms
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: Time it takes for the soundbar to process and produce the sound it receives from the source
Units of Measurement: milliseconds (ms)
Tools to Measure: Software
Why It’s Important:
Long delays create mismatches between audio and video, which breaks immersion and frustrates gamers.
Latency (in milliseconds; lower is better)
Best LG Soundbars: Mistakes To Avoid
- Ignoring Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with your existing devices such as your TV, streaming devices, or gaming consoles. Check if the soundbar supports the necessary connections like HDMI ARC or optical inputs. For gamers, selecting the best gaming soundbar means looking for features that enhance the gaming experience, such as low latency, immersive soundscapes, and compatibility with gaming consoles to ensure the audio matches the on-screen action without delay.
- Neglecting Room Size: Consider the size of your room and the layout when selecting a soundbar. Choosing one that is too small for a large room or too large for a small room can impact sound quality and overall performance. Check out our LG Eclair QP5 review for a compact and portable soundbar.
- Overlooking Audio Features: Research the soundbar’s audio features thoroughly. Look for features like virtual surround sound, Dolby Atmos support, and different sound modes to enhance your listening experience. Neglecting to do so may result in missing out on features that could significantly improve audio quality. The best Dolby Atmos soundbar will provide an immersive, three-dimensional audio experience that can transform your living room into a cinema-like environment. Additionally, the top soundbar with a subwoofer will offer deeper, more powerful bass, enhancing everything from action-packed movie sequences to the nuances of your favorite music tracks.
- Ignoring Setup and Installation Requirements: Be aware of the setup and installation process for the soundbar. Consider whether you need additional accessories such as mounting brackets or speaker stands. Also, ensure that you have the necessary cables and connectors for proper installation. Proper soundbar placement is crucial for optimal audio performance; it should be centered beneath your TV and at an ear-level height if possible. Knowing how to connect a soundbar is equally important, which typically involves HDMI, optical, or Bluetooth connections, depending on your soundbar and TV’s capabilities.
The Best LG Soundbars Tests Compared
Product |
True Score
|
Low End Roll Off
|
High End Roll Off
|
Max Volume Test
|
Latency
|
THD @ 80dB
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 81 |
|
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|  $429.95 |
| 80 |
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|  $346.99 |
| 77 |
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|  $1,296.99 $1,700 $403 |
