Choosing the best soundbar for an open plan room means balancing power, coverage, and clarity. The top pick, Sonos Arc, offers immersive Dolby Atmos sound that can fill large spaces without overwhelming smaller zones. Samsung S60D stands out for its built-in Alexa and wireless Dolby Atmos, ideal for smart home integration. However, these options can be costly or overly complex for some users. Many buyers face the tradeoff between high-end immersive audio and ease of setup or budget constraints. Keep reading to see how each model stacks up and find the perfect fit for your open space.
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- Top models like the Sonos Arc deliver immersive Dolby Atmos for large open rooms, but come at a premium price.
- Coverage and sound dispersion are key; wider soundbars with multiple channels tend to fill open plan spaces more effectively.
- Smart features such as built-in voice assistants add convenience, but may increase complexity or cost.
- Price varies significantly; value options balance performance and affordability, while premium models prioritize sound quality and features.
- Ease of setup and compatibility with existing systems should influence your choice, especially in large, open environments.
| Klipsch Flexus CORE 200 3.1.2 Channel Powered Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos – Black, 44″ W |  | Best Overall for Cinematic Sound in Open Plan Spaces | Power Source: Powered by Onkyo | Channels: 3.1.2 | Connectivity: Bluetooth | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Sound Bar for Smart TV with Bluetooth, ARC, Optical, AUX, Detachable Design, 80W |  | Best Versatile Budget-Friendly Option for Open Plan Rooms | Power Output: 80W | Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, ARC, Optical, AUX | Placement Options: Horizontal, Vertical, Wall Mount | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar with Bluetooth and Bass Reflex Speaker |  | Best Compact Soundbar for Small Spaces in Open Layouts | Audio Output Mode: Surround | Mounting Type: Wall Mount | Enclosure Material: Plastic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Sonos Beam Gen 2 – Black – Soundbar with Dolby Atmos |  | Best for Seamless Multiroom and Smart Integration in Open Spaces | Audio Output Mode: Surround | Mounting Type: Shelf | Enclosure Material: Polycarbonate | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Samsung S60D 5.0ch Soundbar with Wireless Dolby Atmos and Alexa Built-in |  | Best for Smart Integration and Room Calibration in Large Open Spaces | Channels: 5.0 | Dolby Atmos: Wireless | Built-in Subwoofers: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar with Dolby Atmos – Black |  | Best Overall for Premium Open Plan Experience | Audio Output Mode: Surround | Mounting Type: Tabletop | Enclosure Material: Metal | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| JBL Bar 300 5.0 Channel All-in-one Soundbar with Dolby Atmos, MultiBeam 3.0 & PureVoice 2.0 |  | Best for Cinematic Sound in Larger Rooms | Power Output: 450W | Channels: 5.0 | Dolby Atmos: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Bose TV Speaker – Compact Soundbar with Bluetooth and HDMI-ARC |  | Best Compact for Small to Medium Open Rooms | Dimensions: 2.21″ H x 23.38″ W x 4.02″ D | Remote Control Size: 4.1″ H x 1.6″ W x 0.5″ D | Weight: 0.07 lb | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Samsung B-Series Soundbar HW-B630F 3.1 ch DTS Virtual:X with Subwoofer (2025 Model) |  | Best Value with Deep Bass and Versatile Features | Channels: 3.1 | Features: DTS Virtual:X, Voice Enhance Mode, Adaptive Sound | Includes: Wireless Subwoofer, One Remote Control | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Klipsch Flexus CORE 200 3.1.2 Channel Powered Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos – Black, 44″ W
This soundbar stands out for its immersive Dolby Atmos experience, which is ideal for open plan rooms where sound needs to fill a large space. Compared with the Sonos Beam Gen 2, the Flexus CORE 200 offers more channels and dual built-in subwoofers, resulting in richer, more cinematic sound; however, it lacks a separate subwoofer, which may disappoint bass lovers. Its 44-inch width makes it suitable for bigger TV setups but could be overwhelming in smaller areas. Powered by Onkyo, it ensures reliable, high-quality audio performance. The design includes custom-tuned drivers and horn-loaded tweeters to deliver clear dialogue and surround sound, but its size and limited connectivity details may pose installation challenges in tight spaces.
Pros:- Immersive Dolby Atmos surround sound for a cinematic feel
- Rich bass with dual built-in subwoofers and tuned drivers
- Clear dialogue with dedicated horn-loaded tweeter
Cons:- No separate subwoofer included, limiting bass depth
- Limited information on connectivity options beyond Bluetooth
- Large size may be unsuitable for small or cluttered spaces
Best for: Homeowners seeking a true cinematic experience with immersive surround sound in large, open rooms
Not ideal for: Small apartments or bedrooms where space is limited and a more compact setup is preferable
- Power Source:Powered by Onkyo
- Channels:3.1.2
- Connectivity:Bluetooth
- Dolby Atmos:Yes
- Drivers:Four 2.25” ceramic drivers
- Subwoofers:Dual 4” built-in
- Width:44 inches
- Mounting Type:Wall Mount
- Enclosure Material:Metal, Plastic, Wood
Our verdict“This soundbar is best suited for those who want a powerful, cinematic experience in a spacious open plan room and don’t mind a larger setup.”
Sound Bar for Smart TV with Bluetooth, ARC, Optical, AUX, Detachable Design, 80W
This 80W soundbar offers a flexible and straightforward upgrade to your TV setup, making it suitable for open plan living areas where space and adaptability matter. Unlike the Sonos Beam Gen 2, which emphasizes sleek aesthetics and multiroom capabilities, this model focuses on raw power and versatile placement options—horizontal, vertical, or wall-mounted—giving it an edge in larger, multi-use spaces. Its multiple connectivity options, including Bluetooth 5.0, ARC, optical, and AUX, make it a practical choice for various devices. While it lacks the advanced surround features of higher-end models, its ability to deliver rich, immersive audio at an affordable price makes it appealing for those who want a straightforward upgrade without complex setup or high cost.
Pros:- Powerful 80W output delivers room-filling sound
- Flexible placement options for different room layouts
- Multiple connectivity options including Bluetooth 5.0 and ARC
Cons:- Lack of detailed pricing info can make comparison harder
- Requires setup and configuration for optimal sound quality
- Limited advanced sound processing features
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want flexible placement and decent sound for large open living areas
Not ideal for: Audiophiles seeking surround sound or those wanting integrated smart features without additional setup complexity
- Power Output:80W
- Connectivity:Bluetooth 5.0, ARC, Optical, AUX
- Placement Options:Horizontal, Vertical, Wall Mount
- Equalizer Modes:Movie, Music, News
- Warranty:18 months
- Color:Black
Our verdict“This soundbar makes the most sense for those needing a versatile, budget-friendly speaker for large open spaces who prioritize power and flexibility over advanced features.”
Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar with Bluetooth and Bass Reflex Speaker
The Sony S100F offers a straightforward, space-efficient solution that still provides room-filling sound, making it ideal for small to medium open plan rooms where space is at a premium. Compared with the Klipsch Flexus CORE 200, the Sony model is more compact and easier to integrate into smaller setups, but it sacrifices surround sound capabilities for simplicity. The Bass Reflex speaker enhances bass performance, yet with only 2 channels, it may fall short for those wanting full surround effects. Its easy setup with HDMI ARC and Bluetooth makes it accessible for most users, while voice enhancement features help clarify dialogue in lively open areas. However, its limited sound channels and wired subwoofer restrict expansion and true surround sound.
Pros:- Compact design fits well in small rooms
- Easy setup with HDMI ARC and Bluetooth
- Bass Reflex speaker improves low-end performance
Cons:- Limited to 2 channels, not true surround sound
- No waterproofing, limiting outdoor use
- Wired subwoofer reduces placement flexibility
Best for: Small households or apartments with open living spaces where simple, effective sound is needed without clutter
Not ideal for: Audiophiles or large rooms that demand immersive surround sound and higher audio complexity
- Audio Output Mode:Surround
- Mounting Type:Wall Mount
- Enclosure Material:Plastic
- Speaker Size:2 inches
- Bluetooth Range:10 meters
- Frequency Response:64.4 hertz
Our verdict“This pick is best for small space dwellers wanting simple, effective audio without the complexity of larger systems.”
Sonos Beam Gen 2 – Black – Soundbar with Dolby Atmos
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 excels in providing immersive Dolby Atmos sound with minimal setup, especially appealing for users who want a sleek, modern design that integrates seamlessly into open plan living areas. Its multi-control options—app, remote, voice, and AirPlay 2—offer flexibility that surpasses the simpler Sony S100F, making it ideal for those who value smart home compatibility. Compared to the Klipsch Flexus CORE 200, the Beam emphasizes ease of use and multiroom expansion, but it doesn’t match the raw cinematic power or size for filling very large rooms. Its 10-meter range and compact form make it perfect for mid-sized open spaces, although it requires a power cord and batteries for remote operation.
Pros:- Immersive Dolby Atmos surround sound
- Easy setup and multiple control options
- Expandable for multiroom audio
Cons:- Not water resistant, limiting outdoor use
- Requires power cord and batteries for remote use
- Limited to 10 meters wireless range
Best for: Smart home enthusiasts who want a sleek, easy-to-control soundbar with multiroom capabilities in open plan living areas
Not ideal for: Those seeking maximum surround sound or large-scale cinematic audio; users with limited space or budget constraints
- Audio Output Mode:Surround
- Mounting Type:Shelf
- Enclosure Material:Polycarbonate
- Speaker Size:2 inches
- Power Output:200 watts
- Control Method:App, Remote, Voice
- Additional Features:Built-in Microphone, Hi-Res Audio
Our verdict“This soundbar is perfect for smart home lovers wanting a sleek, multiroom capable option that delivers immersive Atmos sound in mid-sized open areas.”
Samsung S60D 5.0ch Soundbar with Wireless Dolby Atmos and Alexa Built-in
The Samsung S60D offers a comprehensive sound profile with 5.0 channels, wireless Dolby Atmos, and smart features like Alexa, Chromecast, and AirPlay 2, making it well-suited for large open plan rooms. Its room calibration feature, SpaceFit Sound Pro, adjusts audio to the environment, which is a significant advantage over simpler systems like the Sony S100F. The built-in subwoofers and adaptive sound ensure a rich, balanced experience across different content types, including gaming with Game Mode Pro. However, it relies on a compatible Samsung TV for some features like Q-Symphony, and wireless Atmos performance can be network-dependent, which might cause inconsistencies. Setup can be complex for those unfamiliar with smart home devices.
Pros:- Immersive 5.0 surround sound with Dolby Atmos
- Smart integrations including Alexa, Chromecast, and AirPlay 2
- Automatic room calibration for optimized sound
Cons:- Requires compatible Samsung TV for full features
- Wireless Atmos may depend heavily on network stability
- Setup can be complex for less tech-savvy users
Best for: Large open plan households with Samsung TVs seeking integrated, adaptive, and smart-capable sound solutions
Not ideal for: Non-Samsung users or those who prefer plug-and-play simplicity over advanced room calibration and smart features
- Channels:5.0
- Dolby Atmos:Wireless
- Built-in Subwoofers:Yes
- Smart Integration:Alexa, Chromecast, Airplay 2
- Room Calibration:SpaceFit Sound Pro
- Game Mode:Game Mode Pro
Our verdict“Ideal for large, open spaces where smart features and room-adaptive sound enhance the viewing experience, especially for Samsung TV owners.”
Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar with Dolby Atmos – Black
The Sonos Arc Ultra stands out for delivering truly immersive 9.1.4 Dolby Atmos surround sound, making it ideal for large open plan rooms where audio needs to fill the space. Compared to the Samsung B-Series HW-B630F, it offers a more sophisticated multi-channel setup with AI-powered Speech Enhancement, which helps keep dialogue clear even in expansive environments. While the Arc Ultra’s premium price might be a hurdle, its sleek design and seamless multi-room streaming elevate the overall home entertainment experience. Its main tradeoff is the absence of water resistance, limiting outdoor use, and setup requires a compatible TV with HDMI eARC for full surround effects. This pick is perfect for those prioritizing immersive sound and modern aesthetics in spacious living areas.
Pros:- Immersive 9.1.4 Dolby Atmos surround sound with AI enhancement
- Sleek, modern design that complements contemporary interiors
- Simple setup via single HDMI eARC and intuitive app guidance
- Supports multiple streaming options including WiFi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay 2
Cons:- Premium price may be prohibitive for some budgets
- No waterproof feature limits outdoor or outdoor-like use
Best for: Homeowners with large, open living spaces seeking immersive, high-fidelity sound with smart features
Not ideal for: Users on a tight budget or those wanting outdoor use, due to its high price and lack of water resistance
- Audio Output Mode:Surround
- Mounting Type:Tabletop
- Enclosure Material:Metal
- Speaker Type:Soundbar
- Additional Features:Built In Microphone, Dolby Enabled, Hi Res Audio, Multi Room Audio
- Color:Black
- Sound Quality:Frequency Response 20000 hertz
- Number of Audio Channels:9.1.4
- Connectivity Technology:Bluetooth, HDMI, Wi-Fi
Our verdict“This is the best choice for those seeking immersive, high-end sound that fills a large open room with ease.”
JBL Bar 300 5.0 Channel All-in-one Soundbar with Dolby Atmos, MultiBeam 3.0 & PureVoice 2.0
The JBL Bar 300 offers a powerful 450W output with Dolby Atmos and MultiBeam 3.0, making it well-suited for filling large open spaces with cinematic sound. Compared with the Sonos Arc Ultra, it emphasizes raw power and multi-channel surround, but without the multi-room streaming finesse. Its PureVoice 2.0 technology ensures dialogue clarity, which is crucial in open plan rooms where sound can easily become muddled. While setup is straightforward through the JBL ONE app, it requires a compatible HDMI eARC port for its full feature set. The absence of a dedicated subwoofer means some deep bass might be less prominent. This model is ideal for those prioritizing impactful home theater audio over multi-room flexibility.
Pros:- Powerful 450W output delivering impactful sound
- Supports Dolby Atmos and MultiBeam 3.0 for cinematic immersion
- Clear dialogue with PureVoice 2.0 technology
- Easy to calibrate with JBL ONE app
Cons:- Does not include a separate subwoofer, limiting deep bass
- Requires HDMI eARC port for full features
Best for: Home theater enthusiasts who want loud, impactful sound in large, open rooms
Not ideal for: Users who prefer integrated multi-room audio or simpler setups without extra calibration
- Power Output:450W
- Channels:5.0
- Dolby Atmos:Yes
- MultiBeam 3.0:Yes
- PureVoice 2.0:Yes
- HDMI eARC:Yes
- 4K Dolby Vision passthrough:Yes
- App Compatibility:JBL ONE App
- Voice Assistant Support:Google Assistant, Siri
Our verdict“This soundbar excels in delivering powerful, cinema-quality sound for large open spaces, especially for home theater lovers.”
Bose TV Speaker – Compact Soundbar with Bluetooth and HDMI-ARC
The Bose TV Speaker offers a compact design that packs a punch for smaller or medium-sized open plan areas, significantly improving dialogue clarity and natural sound. Compared to the larger Sonos Arc Ultra, it sacrifices some surround capabilities but excels in delivering clear vocals, which are vital in open layouts with multiple seating zones. Its straightforward setup via HDMI-ARC or optical makes it accessible for most users, and Bluetooth streaming adds flexibility for music listening. However, its smaller size limits bass and overall volume, and wall mounting requires additional brackets. This pick is perfect for buyers who want better TV audio without overwhelming their space or complicated installations.
Pros:- Enhances TV audio with clear dialogue and natural sound
- Easy setup with HDMI-ARC and optical inputs
- Wireless Bluetooth streaming for versatile music playback
- Compact size suitable for wall mounting or shelf placement
Cons:- Limited bass and volume compared to larger soundbars
- Requires separate purchase of wall brackets for mounting
Best for: Owners of small to medium open plan rooms needing a simple upgrade for dialogue clarity and natural sound
Not ideal for: Large spaces or those seeking immersive surround sound or deep bass, due to its size and limited channels
- Dimensions:2.21″ H x 23.38″ W x 4.02″ D
- Remote Control Size:4.1″ H x 1.6″ W x 0.5″ D
- Weight:0.07 lb
- Connectivity:Bluetooth, HDMI-ARC, Optical, AUX
- Power Cord Length:5 ft
- Sound Quality:Improved clarity and natural sound
Our verdict“This is a solid choice for those who want a small, easy-to-use sound upgrade for medium-sized open rooms.”
Samsung B-Series Soundbar HW-B630F 3.1 ch DTS Virtual:X with Subwoofer (2025 Model)
The Samsung B-Series HW-B630F offers a balanced mix of features and performance for open plan rooms, especially with its dedicated wireless subwoofer providing deep bass. Compared with the JBL Bar 300, it emphasizes a more integrated setup with DTS Virtual:X for virtual surround sound that’s effective in filling large spaces. Its dedicated center channel enhances dialogue clarity, making it suitable for multi-purpose living areas. The model’s compatibility with Samsung TVs and seamless Bluetooth switching make it user-friendly, but full remote control features depend on having a compatible Samsung TV. It doesn’t have Atmos support, which might be a drawback for those seeking the most immersive experience. This makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers wanting a full-featured soundbar.
Pros:- Deep bass from dedicated wireless subwoofer
- Clear dialogue with a dedicated center speaker
- Supports DTS Virtual:X for virtual surround effects
- Easy device switching via Bluetooth
Cons:- Lacks Dolby Atmos support
- Full remote functionality depends on Samsung TV compatibility
Best for: Samsung TV owners and users wanting deep bass and multi-device switching in open rooms
Not ideal for: Those seeking Atmos or ultra-wide surround effects, as this model relies on DTS Virtual:X for virtual surround
- Channels:3.1
- Features:DTS Virtual:X, Voice Enhance Mode, Adaptive Sound
- Includes:Wireless Subwoofer, One Remote Control
- Device Switching:Multi-device Bluetooth
- Model Year:2025
- Connectivity Technology:Bluetooth
Our verdict“This model offers great value for those wanting impactful bass and virtual surround in a larger open space without the need for Atmos.”
How We Picked
These soundbars were selected based on their ability to deliver expansive, clear sound suitable for open plan rooms. We evaluated performance metrics such as power output, channel configuration, and sound dispersion to ensure coverage of large spaces. Usability factors like ease of setup, smart features, and connectivity options were also considered, along with build quality and value. The ranking emphasizes models that balance immersive audio with practical usability, prioritizing products that excel in filling large areas without sacrificing clarity or introducing complexity.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Soundbar For Open Plan Room
Choosing the best soundbar for an open plan room requires understanding how size, sound dispersion, and connectivity influence your experience. Larger spaces demand models capable of producing enough volume and wide sound coverage without distortion. Compatibility with your existing TV and smart home devices can streamline the setup, while features like Dolby Atmos add depth to the audio. Budget considerations also play a role, as premium options offer immersive sound but might be overkill for smaller zones within the open space. Here are key factors to keep in mind when making your choice:Sound Coverage and Power
In open plan rooms, sound coverage is vital. Look for models with multiple drivers or channels, such as 3.1.2 or 5.0 configurations, which can distribute sound more evenly across large areas. Higher wattage and wider dispersion angles help prevent dead zones and ensure dialogue and effects fill the space. Be cautious of smaller soundbars that might sound impressive in compact rooms but struggle to fill expansive areas with clarity.
Channel Configuration and Dolby Atmos
Multi-channel setups, especially those with upward-firing speakers for Dolby Atmos, create a more immersive experience in open environments. Atmos-enabled soundbars can produce a sense of height and depth, making the space feel more dynamic. However, these models tend to be more expensive and may require additional speakers for optimal performance. Consider whether you value cinematic sound over simplicity, and choose accordingly.
Connectivity and Smart Features
Reliable connectivity options like HDMI-ARC, eARC, and Bluetooth are essential for seamless integration with your TV and devices. Built-in voice assistants such as Alexa or Google Assistant can add convenience, especially if your open plan includes smart home controls. Keep in mind that more features often come with higher prices or increased setup complexity—balance your desire for smart functionality with ease of use.
Ease of Installation and Compatibility
In a large space, a clutter-free setup matters. Look for models with detachable or modular designs for flexible placement. Compatibility with your existing TV, streaming devices, and smart home ecosystem reduces setup headaches. Some soundbars include wireless subwoofers or surround speakers, which can enhance coverage but require more space and wiring considerations.
Budget and Long-Term Value
Higher-end models provide richer sound and advanced features but may be overkill if your main goal is clear dialogue and adequate volume. Conversely, budget options might lack coverage or immersive effects but offer good value for smaller or less demanding spaces. Consider your long-term needs—spending more now could pay off with a more adaptable, future-proof system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a larger soundbar automatically fill my open plan room?
Not necessarily. While larger soundbars generally produce more powerful sound, effective coverage depends on both the speaker design and placement. A wide, multi-channel soundbar with multiple drivers will fill a space more evenly, but proper positioning—such as placing it above or below your TV—remains crucial. Additionally, room acoustics and furniture layout can influence how well sound disperses. So, choosing a model designed for large spaces and positioning it correctly are both key factors.
Is Dolby Atmos essential for open plan rooms?
Dolby Atmos can significantly enhance immersion by creating a sense of height and depth, which benefits large, open spaces. However, it isn’t a must-have for everyone. If your main goal is clear dialogue and decent coverage, a good stereo or 3.1 system may suffice. Atmos adds a premium layer of complexity and cost, so weigh whether the extra expense aligns with your entertainment preferences and room size.
Should I prioritize smart features or pure sound quality?
Deciding between smart features and sound quality depends on your priorities. Smart features like voice assistants and app control add convenience, especially if your open plan integrates many smart devices. However, they often come with a cost and potential setup delays. For pure sound, focus on models with high wattage, multiple drivers, and Dolby Atmos support. Balance your desire for ease of use with your audio expectations.
Can I use a standard soundbar in an open plan room?
Yes, but standard soundbars often struggle to fill large spaces evenly. They tend to work best in smaller or enclosed rooms. In open plan environments, look for models with wider dispersion, multiple channels, or additional surround speakers. For the best experience, consider investing in a soundbar specifically designed for large spaces or one that supports expanding with wireless speakers.
Is a wireless subwoofer necessary for open plan rooms?
A wireless subwoofer can improve bass response without cluttering your space with wires, which is beneficial in open environments. It helps create a more immersive experience, especially with movies or music that rely on deep bass. However, if your space is very large, you might need multiple subwoofers or additional speakers for full coverage. Consider your room size and layout before investing in subwoofers.
Conclusion
For most buyers, the Sonos Arc offers the best overall experience, combining immersive Dolby Atmos with smart home compatibility, ideal for large open spaces. Those seeking the best value should consider models like the Samsung S60D, which balances features and affordability. For premium buyers, the Sonos Arc Ultra or Samsung B-Series deliver top-tier sound with advanced features. Beginners or those with simpler setups might prefer the Bose TV Speaker for its straightforward use. If your space demands serious coverage and depth, prioritize models with multiple channels and Atmos support—these are the best choices for filling large, open environments with clear, immersive sound.
