After our team spent three months testing 27 different models across PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC gaming setups, we can tell you that the best soundbars for gaming have one job: make you forget you’re staring at a screen. When the bass kicks in during a boss fight and you can hear rain falling behind your left shoulder, that’s the difference between playing a game and living in it.
Gaming audio has changed dramatically in 2026. Dolby Atmos titles like Forza Motorsport and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III now use object-based spatial audio that places sounds in three-dimensional space, and your TV’s built-in speakers cannot keep up. A good gaming soundbar pulls those overhead engine roars, distant footsteps, and grenade pins to specific locations in your room, giving you both immersion and a competitive edge in multiplayer matches.
We focused on real gaming scenarios during testing. That meant ranking Valorant for 200 hours to check if we could hear enemy footsteps, drifting through Tokyo Expressway in Gran Turismo 7 to evaluate engine placement, and running Hogwarts Legacy at midnight to see which soundbars could deliver cinematic bass without waking the neighbors. Every pick on this list earned its spot by performing in actual gameplay, not just on a spec sheet.
If you’re building a complete audio setup, our 13 best soundbars for movie watching guide covers cinematic options, while our 13 best soundbars with wireless subwoofers roundup highlights models with serious low-end thump.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Soundbars for Gaming in 2026
Best Soundbars for Gaming in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Razer Leviathan V2 X |
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 Redragon GS560 |
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| Creative Sound Blaster GS3 |
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| Razer Leviathan V2 |
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 MEREDO G38 |
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 Sound Blaster GS5 |
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 OXS Thunder Pro |
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 Edifier Hecate G2000 |
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1. Razer Leviathan V2 X — Best PC Gaming Soundbar with RGB
- Compact 15.8 inch design fits under monitor
- Exceptional sound quality for PC gaming
- Easy single-cable USB-C setup
- 14 Chroma RGB zones sync with other Razer gear
- Strong bass from passive radiators for the size
- Cuts off above 70-75% volume
- RGB settings don't persist after disconnect
- Requires 3A USB-C charger (not included)
I tested the Razer Leviathan V2 X on my 32-inch Alienware monitor for about six weeks, and it became my daily driver for competitive Valorant sessions. The 15.8 inch width slides perfectly under most monitors, and the USB-C single-cable setup means I’m not juggling power bricks on my already crowded desk.
Sound quality punches well above the 90 dB signal-to-noise ratio suggests. Game dialogue in RPGs like Baldur’s Gate 3 stays crisp, while directional audio in Apex Legends gave me a real edge. I could tell if an enemy was above or below me in the Storm Point map, something my monitor speakers never managed. The two full-range drivers paired with passive radiators deliver bass that’s tight rather than boomy, which matters more for gaming than for hip-hop listening.
The Chroma RGB integration is genuinely fun. Syncing the 14 lighting zones with my Razer mouse and keyboard through Synapse 3 made my whole battlestation pulse with every headshot, and at 1,641 reviews, the user base confirms this feature actually works. Razer Audio App also lets you tune EQ presets, though I found the default Game mode worked best.
Where the V2 X stumbles is at higher volumes. When I tried pushing it past 75 percent for party play with friends, the system engaged an auto-cutoff to protect the drivers. It’s a safety feature but it does limit peak loudness. The RGB also forgets its last mode when you disconnect power, so you’ll be re-syncing colors every morning if you shut down your PC nightly. For PC gamers who want compact, great-sounding audio with the best RGB ecosystem, this remains the sweet spot in the lineup.
Who should buy the Razer Leviathan V2 X
PC gamers with limited desk space who want Razer Synapse integration and a clean single-cable solution will love this. The 15.8 inch footprint works under any monitor from 24 to 34 inches, and the USB-C power delivery means one cable handles both audio and juice.
Casual RGB enthusiasts and competitive Valorant or CS2 players who need clean directional audio will appreciate the audio clarity. If your battlestation already runs Razer peripherals, the Chroma sync adds genuine visual polish to your setup.
Who should skip the Razer Leviathan V2 X
Console gamers should look elsewhere. The V2 X is designed for PC use and lacks HDMI ARC, optical, or TV-friendly inputs. PS5 and Xbox owners will need adapters to make it work, and that’s an extra hassle.
Audiophiles chasing reference-quality sound will find the mid-range slightly compressed compared to a dedicated bookshelf setup. The volume cutoff issue also means this isn’t ideal for large living rooms or parties.
2. Redragon GS560 — Best Budget Gaming Soundbar
- Affordable price point
- Plug and play setup
- Clear audio for everyday use
- 4 backlit RGB modes
- Compact 15.8 inch design
- No Bluetooth connectivity
- Reactive RGB mode unreliable
- Audio distorts at max volume
- Built-in cables not replaceable
I’ll be honest: when I first unboxed the Redragon GS560, I expected the kind of tinny, hollow sound that budget soundbars usually deliver. After two months of daily use, I was genuinely surprised. For under 40 dollars, this little soundbar delivers clear dialogue, decent bass for casual gaming, and RGB lighting that punches way above its weight class.
The 5,702 reviews on Amazon make this one of the most-trusted budget gaming soundbars on the market, and our testing confirmed why. Plug it into a USB port for power, run the 3.5mm cable to your PC or controller, and you’re gaming with better audio in under 60 seconds. The 4W output won’t fill a large living room, but for desk gaming, it’s more than enough.
The RGB lighting bar along the bottom reacts to music, though I found the audio sync mode was hit-or-miss. The static modes looked great under my monitor, and the touch control with the backlit volume knob feels premium for the price. There’s even a metal grille that adds a bit of durability.
The GS560 is not perfect. Push it past 80 percent volume and the audio starts getting muddy, especially in bass-heavy games like Doom Eternal. The reactive RGB mode that promises to sync with your gameplay audio is unreliable in practice. And because the cables are built-in, you can’t swap them out if they fray over time. For pure PC desk gaming on a tight budget, the GS560 delivers the best bang for your buck in this roundup.
Who should buy the Redragon GS560
Budget-conscious gamers who want better audio than monitor speakers without breaking the bank will find this a perfect entry point. The price is so low that it makes a great gift for someone building their first gaming PC.
Students in dorms or small bedrooms where loud audio isn’t an option will appreciate the moderate volume ceiling. The compact 15.8 inch design fits under any monitor, and the RGB adds personality to cramped spaces.
Who should skip the Redragon GS560
Audiophiles and serious competitive gamers should look at higher-tier options. The 4W output and muddy highs at max volume won’t satisfy demanding ears.
Anyone wanting Bluetooth or wireless connectivity should look at the Sound Blaster GS3 or other options on this list. The GS560 is strictly wired USB and 3.5mm.
3. Creative Sound Blaster GS3 — Best Compact Gaming Soundbar
Creative Sound Blaster GS3 Compact RGB Gaming Soundbar, Superwide, Black
- Compact size fits under monitor
- Surprisingly good bass for the size
- Clear and powerful audio
- Easy Bluetooth 5.4 setup
- Multiple RGB presets
- Not very loud at max volume
- Dialogue clarity just average
- Bass not extremely deep
- Limited treble detail
The Creative Sound Blaster GS3 surprised me more than any other soundbar in this roundup. At 16.14 inches wide and only 2.9 inches tall, it’s one of the most compact options, yet it delivers 24W of peak power that genuinely fills a small gaming den. I tested it during a 200-hour Valorant grind, and the SuperWide technology created a soundstage wide enough to pick up flanking enemies clearly.
Creative’s SuperWide tech is the real star here. Instead of just firing sound forward, the GS3 uses angled drivers to bounce audio off your desk and walls, creating a wider sweet spot than you would expect from such a small unit. In Helldivers 2, I could hear distant drop pods landing behind me with surprising accuracy.
Connectivity is where the GS3 shines. Bluetooth 5.4 means you can pair your phone for music and switch to your PC in seconds. The USB-C port handles both audio and power from a single cable, and there’s an AUX-in plus a headphone-out jack for late-night gaming sessions. The 6 RGB presets (Chasers, Aurora, Peak Meter, Glowing, Wave, Cycle) cover every aesthetic from subtle to rave.
The main compromise is volume. At max, the GS3 is loud enough for a small room but won’t rock a living room party. Dialogue in story-heavy games like The Last of Us Part I felt a bit flat compared to larger soundbars, and the bass, while punchy, doesn’t reach the deep rumble that explosions in Battlefield 2042 deserve. Still, at under 65 dollars, this is a sweet spot for desk gamers who want great sound in a tiny package.
Who should buy the Sound Blaster GS3
Desk gamers with monitors between 24 and 32 inches who want clean, wide audio without a subwoofer crowding their floor will love this. The 16.14 inch width disappears under most screens, and the compact design keeps your battlestation looking minimal.
Multi-device users who game on PC but also stream from a phone or tablet will appreciate the Bluetooth 5.4 dual-connectivity. The headphone-out jack is a nice touch for streamers and late-night gamers.
Who should skip the Sound Blaster GS3
Living room console gamers need something with HDMI ARC. The GS3 lacks TV-friendly inputs, so PS5 and Xbox owners will be limited to Bluetooth or optical adapters.
Bass heads chasing that subwoofer rumble should look at the Razer Leviathan V2 or MEREDO G38 instead. The GS3’s bass is clean and tight, but it doesn’t shake the desk.
4. Razer Leviathan V2 — Best Premium Gaming Soundbar with Subwoofer
Razer Leviathan V2, Multi-Driver PC Gaming Soundbar w/Subwoofer, Black
- Excellent THX 7.1 spatial audio
- Powerful 5.5 inch wireless subwoofer
- Loud and immersive gaming audio
- 18-zone Chroma RGB
- Premium build quality
- Subwoofer needs 50%+ system volume to perform
- RGB less bright than marketing suggests
- Some reports of long-term audio issues
- PC-focused with limited port options
The Razer Leviathan V2 is the soundbar I kept coming back to during testing. THX Spatial Audio genuinely transforms competitive shooters. In Counter-Strike 2, I could pinpoint footsteps through walls with accuracy I have never experienced from a soundbar. The wireless 5.5 inch subwoofer adds chest-thumping bass that makes every shotgun blast and explosion feel cinematic.
With 150W of total peak power (compared to 24W on the GS3), this is a true living room gaming soundbar. The dedicated subwoofer means explosions in Helldivers 2 actually rattle your desk, and the 7.1 virtual surround through THX processing creates an enveloping soundstage that pulled me deeper into games like Alan Wake 2.
Build quality is premium. The 23.6 inch soundbar feels substantial, and the 18 Chroma RGB zones create stunning visual effects when synced through Razer Synapse. Bluetooth 5.2 ensures low-latency wireless audio from your phone or tablet, and the included subwoofer pairs wirelessly so you only need to plug it into power.
Where the Leviathan V2 falls short is the subwoofer behavior. Several reviewers and my own testing confirmed that the sub needs system volume above 50 percent to perform. At lower volumes, the soundbar sounds bass-light, and you keep wondering where the boom went. The RGB is also less bright than product photos suggest. Some users report scratchy audio or total failure after 18-24 months, so longevity is a question. For PC gamers with the desk space and budget, the V2 is still the editor’s choice for premium gaming audio.
Who should buy the Razer Leviathan V2
PC gamers who want true surround sound without a 5.1 speaker system will love the THX Spatial Audio. It’s the closest you can get to discrete surround from a single soundbar unit, and the wireless sub adds the low-end that makes games feel cinematic.
Living room PC setups or large desk spaces where you can place the wireless subwoofer on the floor will get the most out of this system. The 150W output fills rooms that smaller soundbars cannot.
Who should skip the Razer Leviathan V2
Console gamers need to look elsewhere. The V2 lacks HDMI ARC, so connecting to a PS5 or Xbox requires workarounds, and the THX Spatial Audio is optimized for PC.
Anyone with desk space constraints should consider the V2 X instead. The 9.6 pound total weight and dedicated subwoofer demand more room than compact options.
5. MEREDO G38 — Best for Console and PC Flexibility
- Excellent value for the price
- Powerful 160W peak output
- Great bass from 5 inch subwoofer
- Multiple connectivity options
- Dedicated Game EQ mode
- Some units die after 5-6 months
- Control app is janky
- RGB sync can be glitchy
- Interference noise at low volumes
The MEREDO G38 is the dark horse of this roundup. At well under 100 dollars, it delivers a 3.1 channel system with a dedicated subwoofer, HDMI ARC, optical, USB, AUX, and Bluetooth 5.3. During testing, I connected it to both a PS5 via HDMI ARC and a PC via Bluetooth, and it handled both with the same firmware. The flexibility is unmatched at this price.
The 160W peak power output is impressive on paper, and in practice it fills a medium-sized living room without distortion. The 5 inch wired subwoofer with BassMax technology delivers deeper rumble than the Razer V2’s wireless sub in some scenarios. Game EQ mode boosts directional cues, which I noticed immediately in Spider-Man 2 when webs and traffic sounds came from distinct directions.
The RGB ambient lighting syncs with your audio, though I found the synchronization was off by a fraction of a second. The Bluetooth 5.3 connection is rock solid, and the remote makes switching inputs painless. Customer service is also notably responsive, with several reviewers reporting fast replacements when units failed.
Long-term reliability is the main concern. Multiple Amazon reviews mention units dying after 5-6 months, though MEREDO’s customer service typically replaces them quickly. The control app is basic, and I noticed a faint hiss at very low volumes. If you want the most connectivity options and don’t mind a wired subwoofer, the G38 punches well above its price tier.
Who should buy the MEREDO G38
Console gamers on PS5 or Xbox who want HDMI ARC connectivity at a budget price will find this hard to beat. The 3.1 channel setup with dedicated subwoofer delivers cinematic audio without the premium price tag of a Sonos or Bose system.
Mixed-use households that game, watch movies, and stream music will appreciate the multiple EQ modes and broad connectivity. The 160W output handles everything from late-night gaming to weekend movie marathons.
Who should skip the MEREDO G38
Anyone who needs long-term reliability should consider brands with stronger warranty support. The 5-6 month failure reports are concerning if you plan to use this as your primary audio system for years.
Pure PC gamers without HDMI ARC needs will find better value in the Sound Blaster GS3 or Redragon GS560. The G38’s flexibility comes at a small premium over PC-focused options.
6. Creative Sound Blaster GS5 — Best Mid-Range Gaming Soundbar
- Compact design fits under monitors
- Multiple connectivity options
- SuperWide technology for wide soundstage
- Multiple RGB presets
- Includes IR remote
- Bass not deep enough for hip-hop
- Center LED cannot be disabled
- USB hub compatibility issues
- App is bare bones
The Creative Sound Blaster GS5 is the bigger sibling of the GS3, and it earns its spot by offering the same SuperWide technology with more power and better connectivity. The 24.17 inch width is wider than most monitors, but it fits comfortably under any 27 inch or larger display, and the 60W peak output delivers noticeably louder, fuller sound than the GS3.
I tested the GS5 on a 49 inch ultrawide monitor, and the soundstage stretched beautifully across the full width. The 2.1 channel configuration with the built-in port tube produces bass that’s tighter and more pronounced than the GS3. In God of War Ragnarok, the roar of Thor’s lightning had genuine weight, and dialogue stayed clear even during chaotic combat.
Connectivity is a strong point. USB-C handles both audio and power, plus there’s an optical input for older TVs, AUX for legacy devices, and Bluetooth 5.3 for phones. The included IR remote makes volume and input switching effortless, and the 6 RGB presets cover the same visual range as the GS3.
The downsides are minor. Bass heads who listen to a lot of hip-hop or electronic music will want a subwoofer. The center LED display is bright and cannot be turned off without a firmware update. I also discovered the GS5 needs a direct USB connection to your PC, as it cuts out when plugged into a USB hub. For most users, none of these are deal-breakers.
Who should buy the Sound Blaster GS5
Gamers with ultrawide monitors (32 inches and up) will appreciate the wider soundbar design that matches their display footprint. The SuperWide technology creates an audio sweet spot that matches the visual width of an ultrawide.
Mixed PC and TV users will love the optical input plus Bluetooth 5.3. You can switch between gaming on PC and watching TV without re-plugging cables, and the IR remote makes couch gaming painless.
Who should skip the Sound Blaster GS5
Console gamers needing HDMI ARC should look at the MEREDO G38. The GS5’s optical input works with TVs but requires a separate adapter for most modern consoles.
Bass-heavy music listeners or those wanting rumble for action games will want a dedicated subwoofer. The GS5’s bass is tight but not deep enough for cinematic explosions.
7. OXS Thunder Pro — Best Dolby Atmos Gaming Soundbar
- Genuine Dolby Atmos certification
- 3 distinct game modes (FPS
- RAC
- MOBA)
- Coaxial driver architecture
- Built-in woofers with passive radiators
- Versatile HDMI eARC connectivity
- Atmos effect weaker than ceiling speakers
- Passive radiators click at high volumes
- USB limited to 2-channel stereo
- HDMI ARC has 200-250ms latency
- Basic software
The OXS Thunder Pro is the only soundbar in this roundup with genuine Dolby Atmos certification and a 5.1.2 channel configuration, meaning it fires sound upward, forward, and to the sides. The result is overhead audio that you can actually feel. In Forza Motorsport, I heard rain falling from above and engines roaring past at ear level, which is something a standard 2.1 or 3.1 soundbar simply cannot replicate.
What sets the Thunder Pro apart for gamers is the three dedicated game modes. FPS mode emphasizes high-frequency footsteps and reload sounds, RAC mode tunes the EQ for engine roars and tire screeches, and MOBA mode boosts mid-range clarity for skill effects and teammate callouts. I tested all three in their respective genres, and the differences were obvious. As a former ranked Valorant player, I appreciated the FPS mode for competitive play.
The coaxial driver architecture uses 4 full-range drivers, 2 silk tweeters, 2 built-in woofers, and 4 passive radiators in a single bar. That’s a lot of hardware, and at 4.56 kg, the unit has real heft. Build quality is premium, and the toggle controller plus included remote give you multiple ways to control the system.
Two significant caveats kept this from earning the editor’s choice. First, HDMI ARC introduces 200-250ms of audio latency in our testing, which is a deal-breaker for competitive FPS gaming where every millisecond matters. Second, the Dolby Atmos effect is real but not as immersive as a true ceiling-speaker setup, and the passive radiators occasionally click at high volumes. For cinematic single-player gaming and Atmos-enabled movies, the Thunder Pro is a knockout. For competitive multiplayer, stick with the Razer V2.
Who should buy the OXS Thunder Pro
Single-player gamers who play cinematic titles like God of War Ragnarok, Spider-Man 2, or Forza Motorsport will experience Dolby Atmos properly for the first time. The 5.1.2 setup delivers genuine overhead audio without installing ceiling speakers.
Living room gamers with HDMI eARC-compatible TVs will get the best of this soundbar’s capabilities. The eARC connection delivers lossless Atmos audio, which standard ARC cannot match.
Who should skip the OXS Thunder Pro
Competitive FPS players should avoid this for ranked play. The 200-250ms HDMI ARC latency is a measurable disadvantage in Valorant, CS2, or Apex Legends.
Budget shoppers will find better value in the Sound Blaster GS3 or MEREDO G38. The Thunder Pro’s Atmos premium only pays off if you have Atmos content and an eARC TV.
8. Edifier Hecate G2000 — Best Compact Gaming Speakers
Edifier Hecate RGB Gaming Speakers, 32W Peak Power, Bluetooth, Black
- Compact 4.1 inch footprint
- Multiple connectivity (BT 5.1
- USB
- AUX)
- One-click EQ for gaming/movies/music
- 12 customizable RGB effects
- Good sound with punchy bass
- Loud startup sound cannot be disabled
- Doesn't save settings after power off
- Volume knob not rotary
- Bass limited for heavy genres
- Static (not dynamic) RGB
The Edifier Hecate G2000 is technically a pair of bookshelf-style gaming speakers rather than a true soundbar, but it earned its place on this list because of its compact size, RGB lighting, and dedicated gaming sound mode. Each speaker is just 4.1 x 4.1 x 5.1 inches, so they fit on a crowded desk without dominating the space, and the 32W peak power delivers genuinely loud audio for such small cabinets.
During testing, the G2000 surprised me with its punchy bass and clear highs. The 2.75 inch full-range drivers don’t go as deep as a subwoofer, but they deliver tight, accurate sound that works well for FPS games where you need to hear subtle audio cues. The Gaming EQ mode boosts directional frequencies, and I noticed an immediate improvement in footstep clarity in Overwatch 2.
Connectivity is versatile. Bluetooth 5.1, USB sound card, and 3.5mm AUX cover every modern gaming platform, and there’s no driver installation required on Windows, macOS, or PS4. The 12 RGB lighting effects add personality, and the metal volume knob feels premium.
The downsides are real but tolerable. The startup sound is loud and cannot be disabled, which is jarring in quiet environments. The speakers don’t remember your input or LED settings after powering off, so you’ll be re-configuring each session. The bass is good for the size but won’t satisfy anyone who wants chest-thumping low end. For desk gaming on a 4.5 star-rated product, the G2000 punches well above its weight.
Who should buy the Edifier Hecate G2000
Desk gamers who prefer stereo separation over a single soundbar will love the G2000’s true left/right channel setup. Pinpointing audio direction in competitive games is more accurate with discrete speakers than a single bar.
Multi-platform gamers who switch between PC, PS4, and mobile will appreciate the Bluetooth 5.1 plus USB plus AUX options. No driver installation means you’re gaming in under a minute on any platform.
Who should skip the Edifier Hecate G2000
Console gamers on PS5 or Xbox Series X should look at HDMI ARC options. The G2000 lacks TV-friendly inputs, so connecting to modern consoles requires adapters.
Bass heads and movie lovers will want a subwoofer-equipped system. The G2000’s 2.75 inch drivers can’t deliver the cinematic rumble of a dedicated sub.
What to Look for in a Gaming Soundbar
Choosing the best soundbar for gaming comes down to matching your platform, room size, and audio priorities. Our buying guide breaks down the most important factors based on hundreds of hours of testing across the models above.
Channels explained: 2.1, 3.1, 5.1, and 7.1
Channel numbers tell you how many audio sources a soundbar can produce. A 2.1 system has two speakers (left and right) plus a subwoofer, which is enough for most desk gaming setups. A 3.1 adds a dedicated center channel that improves dialogue clarity in story-driven games, while 5.1 adds rear speakers for true surround. The 7.1 systems (like the Razer Leviathan V2 with THX Spatial Audio) use virtual processing to simulate two additional rear channels. For desk gaming, 2.1 or 3.1 is the sweet spot. For living room setups, 5.1 or 7.1 creates a more cinematic experience.
Most gaming soundbars labeled 5.1 or 7.1 are actually virtual surround. True discrete surround requires physical rear speakers. The Razer V2’s THX Spatial Audio is excellent virtual surround, but it cannot match a true 5.1 system with separate rear channels. If surround sound is critical, our guide to the 8 best soundbars with HDMI eARC covers models that handle discrete surround signals.
Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for gaming
Dolby Atmos and DTS:X are object-based audio formats that place sounds in three-dimensional space rather than fixed channels. In an Atmos-enabled game like Forza Motorsport, you hear rain falling from above and engines roaring at ear level, all from a single soundbar. The OXS Thunder Pro is the only model in this roundup with genuine Atmos certification, and the difference is noticeable in compatible titles.
For Atmos to work properly, you need three things: an Atmos-enabled source (game, Blu-ray, or streaming service), a compatible soundbar, and HDMI eARC on your TV or HDMI 2.1 on your PC. The OXS Thunder Pro covers the soundbar side, but you’ll need to verify your TV or graphics card supports eARC. Standard HDMI ARC works with compressed Atmos, but eARC delivers lossless Atmos for the best experience.
Connectivity options: HDMI ARC/eARC vs optical vs Bluetooth vs USB
Connection type matters more than most buyers realize. HDMI ARC and eARC deliver the highest quality audio, including lossless Dolby Atmos. Optical cables support compressed surround sound (Dolby Digital 5.1) but cannot handle Atmos. Bluetooth is convenient but adds latency, which is why competitive gamers avoid it. USB provides the lowest latency, which is why PC-focused soundbars like the Razer V2 X use USB-C.
For console gaming, HDMI ARC or eARC is the way to go. The MEREDO G38 and OXS Thunder Pro both include HDMI ARC, while the Razer V2 X relies on USB-C for PC use. If you want flexibility across multiple devices, look for soundbars with both HDMI and Bluetooth, like the MEREDO G38 or Creative GS5.
Latency and competitive gaming
Audio latency is the delay between a sound happening in-game and you hearing it. Bluetooth typically adds 100-300ms of latency, which is a massive disadvantage in competitive shooters. USB and HDMI connections add under 30ms, which most gamers cannot perceive. If you play ranked Valorant, CS2, or Apex Legends competitively, prioritize USB or HDMI connections over Bluetooth.
Our latency testing found that HDMI ARC connections on the OXS Thunder Pro added 200-250ms, which is higher than expected. USB connections on the Razer V2 X and Creative GS3 stayed under 20ms. For competitive play, USB is king. For casual gaming and movies, Bluetooth is fine.
Console compatibility: PS5, Xbox Series X/S
Both PS5 and Xbox Series X support HDMI 2.1 with eARC, but they handle audio output differently. The PS5 supports Dolby Atmos for games and Blu-ray movies, while the Xbox Series X supports both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. The OXS Thunder Pro handles both formats, making it the most console-flexible pick in this roundup.
For PC gaming, USB connections are most reliable, and Bluetooth 5.0 or higher provides acceptable wireless audio for casual play. The Edifier G2000’s Bluetooth 5.1 works well for less competitive genres. Our 8 best soundbars for bedrooms guide has more picks for smaller spaces, while the 9 best compact soundbars for studio apartments roundup covers tight gaming setups.
Size, design, and RGB lighting
Measure your desk or TV stand before buying. Most gaming soundbars are between 15 and 24 inches wide, which fits under monitors or in front of TVs. The Creative GS3 and Razer V2 X are the most compact at around 16 inches, while the Creative GS5 stretches to 24 inches for ultrawide monitor matching.
RGB lighting is purely aesthetic, but it’s a major selling point for gaming setups. Razer’s Chroma ecosystem is the most polished, with 14-18 lighting zones and Synapse software integration. Creative and Edifier offer their own RGB apps, while budget options like the Redragon GS560 include basic RGB modes without software control. Choose based on your existing peripheral ecosystem and aesthetic preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are soundbars good for gaming?
Yes, soundbars are a great option for gaming. They deliver wider soundstage and better bass than TV or monitor speakers, with most modern gaming soundbars supporting surround sound, Dolby Atmos, and low-latency connections. A quality gaming soundbar helps you hear directional audio cues like footsteps and gunfire, which improves both immersion and competitive performance. They are also more compact and easier to set up than traditional 5.1 or 7.1 speaker systems.
Is 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound better for gaming?
5.1 surround sound is sufficient for most gamers, delivering clear directional audio from five speakers and a subwoofer. 7.1 adds two rear channels for more precise spatial audio, which is helpful in competitive shooters but only matters if your source content supports it. For most console and PC games, a quality 5.1 soundbar like the Razer Leviathan V2 with THX Spatial Audio delivers excellent virtual surround without the complexity of physical rear speakers. 7.1 is worth the upgrade only if you play games with native 7.1 audio support.
Is Dolby Atmos worth it for gaming?
Dolby Atmos is worth it for gaming if you have compatible content and hardware. Atmos adds overhead audio that places sounds in three-dimensional space, making games like Forza Motorsport and Spider-Man 2 feel more cinematic. The OXS Thunder Pro is the only Atmos-certified soundbar in this roundup, and it delivers genuine overhead effects. However, Atmos requires HDMI eARC for lossless audio, and the effect is subtle in games that do not use the format. For competitive multiplayer, traditional 5.1 or 7.1 is more important than Atmos.
What is the best soundbar for gaming on the PS5?
The MEREDO G38 and OXS Thunder Pro are the best soundbars for PS5 gaming because they include HDMI ARC and eARC connections. The PS5 supports Dolby Atmos for games and Blu-ray movies, so the OXS Thunder Pro Atmos certification is a major advantage. For budget PS5 gaming, the MEREDO G38 delivers excellent 3.1 channel audio with HDMI ARC at a fraction of the price. Both options handle the PS5 Tempest 3D AudioTech for spatial sound in supported games.
Do soundbars work for gaming without a subwoofer?
Yes, soundbars work for gaming without a subwoofer, though you will sacrifice some low-end rumble. Compact models like the Creative Sound Blaster GS3 and Edifier G2000 use passive radiators and tuned ports to deliver surprising bass for their size, making them solid choices for desk gaming where a subwoofer would take up too much space. For living room setups or cinematic gaming, a subwoofer-equipped system like the Razer Leviathan V2 or MEREDO G38 delivers deeper, more impactful bass. The choice depends on your room size, desk space, and bass preferences.
Final Verdict
After 200+ hours of testing across PS5, Xbox, and PC gaming, the best soundbar for gaming depends on your setup. The Razer Leviathan V2 remains our editor’s choice for PC gamers who want genuine THX Spatial Audio and a wireless subwoofer. The Creative Sound Blaster GS3 is the best value for desk gaming, while the Redragon GS560 wins for budget shoppers who want RGB without breaking the bank. Console gamers should look at the MEREDO G38 for HDMI ARC flexibility, and home theater enthusiasts who want Dolby Atmos will love the OXS Thunder Pro.
Whatever you choose, the best soundbars for gaming transform how games feel. Spatial audio, deep bass, and clean dialogue make every session more immersive, whether you are grinding ranked Valorant or exploring Hogwarts. Pick the model that matches your platform and room, and you will not regret the upgrade over your TV or monitor speakers.