Which Is Better, A 2.1 Or 5.1 Soundbar? Find Your Perfect Match

Ever wondered which soundbar channel is better - 2.1 or 5.1? Here is a comprehensive guide for speaker units from brands such as Sony, boAt, Zebronics, JBL, etc. Both the 2.1 soundbars and 5.1 soundbars have their advantages, however, both of them offer top audio quality alike for a cinematic experience.
2.1 Vs 5.1 Soundbars | Image Source: Freepik

A 2.1 soundbar or a 5.1 soundbar - which one is better? If this is your persistent question to ask, here are all your questions answered. Many brands such as Sony, boAt, Zebronics, JBL, and many more offer both 2.1 and 5.1 soundbars and one can choose from them according to their budget and requirements. Most of these sound systems are enhanced by Dolby Atmos technology for three-dimensional sound waves. One can enhance the audio listening, gaming, and content viewing experience. And, provided wired or wireless subwoofers give deep and rich bass quality with thumping audio. The sleek designs make these soundbars easy to install. 

Which Is Better, A 2.1 Or 5.1 Soundbar? Let’s Find Out

Discover soundbars with 2.1 channels and 5.1 channels from brands such as Sony, boAt, Zebronics, JBL, and many more. Equipped with Dolby Atmos, most of these audio units offer three-dimensional sound waves for a true surround sound experience. The sleek and stylish designs look eye-pleasing and offer both wall-mounting and tabletop installation. Also, multi-connectivity options are available such as HDMI, Optical, Bluetooth, etc. for both wired and wireless connections Check out some of the reputed brands of speakers below.

  • Sony HT-S20R Real 5.1ch Dolby Digital Soundbar for TV

    Sony is one of the best soundbar brands that offer a range of sound systems for home. Take a look at this 5.1 soundbar from the reputed brand to enjoy cinema-like audio quality at home. This unit is enhanced by Dolby Digital technology, offering real surround sound. Additionally, rear speakers and an external subwoofer are provided that delivers dynamic and immersive audio quality. This soundbar from Sony delivers a 400-watt power output for a loud sound. Along with this, multiple connectivity options are available such as Bluetooth and USB playback. Take advantage of the different sound modes - Auto, Standard, Cinema, and Music for a better experience.

    Specifications

    • Brand: Sony
    • Frequency Response: 0.01 Hz
    • Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth
    • Audio Output Mode: Surround
    • Mounting Type: Floor Standing
    • Warranty: 1 year

    Pros

    • HDMI Arc and Optical Connectivity to connect the soundbar to the TV easily
    • Easy-to-use remote control
    • Easy to set up

    Cons

    • None
    01
  • boAt Aavante Bar 3600

    A 5.1-channel soundbar offers a better audio listening experience and the renowned brand, boAt offers this speaker unit with a 500-watt power output for clear and thumping audio. Offering a real surround setup, this 5.1 soundbar offers cinematic audio and is ideal for gaming, movies, music listening, etc. Notably, bass and treble controls are provided to deliver personalized sound quality. With the available Bluetooth v5.3 connectivity technology, this sound system offers a stable and faster wireless connection that makes it easier to connect wireless devices. Also, this soundbar has a sleek and stylish wall-mountable design that looks super eye-pleasing and saves space too. 

    Specifications

    • Brand: boAt
    • Speaker Maximum Output Power: 5E+2 Watts
    • Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth
    • Audio Output Mode: Surround
    • Mounting Type: Wall Mount
    • Warranty: 1 year

    Pros

    • The master remote control is provided to easily control audio
    • Wired subwoofer for deep bass quality
    • USB, Optical, AUX, HDMI (ARC), etc. connectivity ports are provided

    Cons

    • None
    02
  • ZEBRONICS Juke BAR 7600 Soundbar

    Another brand is Zebronics which one can go with for a 5.1 soundbar. This offered speaker unit offers dynamic audio quality with the availability of dual rear satellites with drivers sized 5cm x 9cm for true surround sound. A 6.5-inch subwoofer is provided that delivers immersive and deep bass quality. Also, this 5.1-channel soundbar provides multi-directional audio that makes it feel like the audio is coming from all directions. Along with this, multi-connectivity options are available with provided ports for HDMI (ARC), USB, Optical Input, AUX, etc. Additionally, Bluetooth v5.0 provides faster and more stable wireless connections, making it one of the best 5.1 soundbars. With a stylish build, this model has a wall-mountable design.

    Specifications

    • Brand: ZEBRONICS
    • Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth
    • Audio Output Mode: Surround
    • Mounting Type: free-standing
    • Model Name: ZEB-JUKE BAR
    • Warranty: 1 year

    Pros

    • LED display for alerts of volume control, power on/off, connectivity modes, etc.
    • Comes with user-friendly remote control
    • Control buttons provided to control media and volume

    Cons

    • Some users stated that the remote control could have been better.
    03
  • Mivi Fort Q700D Dolby Home Audio

    Up next is this 5.1 soundbar from Mivi Fort. With a 700-watt power output and Dolby Audio technology, this speaker unit offers an advanced audio listening experience with loud sound and three-dimensional sound waves. This 5.1-channel sound system comes with 3 in-built full-range speakers, 2 full-range satellite speakers, and 1 external subwoofer that delivers true surround sound with rich bass quality. Take advantage of the preset entertainment modes to enjoy movies, music, gaming, etc. The LED display shows alerts and information regarding media and volume control. This product has an iconic, Chrome-finish design that looks aesthetically pleasing. And, a remote control is provided with a user-friendly interface.

    Specifications

    • Brand: Mivi
    • Speaker Maximum Output Power: 700 Watts
    • Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth
    • Audio Output Mode: Surround
    • Mounting Type: Tabletop Mount
    • Warranty: 1 year

    Pros

    • Easy navigation switch for media and volume controls
    • DIY Setup

    Cons

    • None
    04
  • JBL Cinema SB271, Dolby Digital Soundbar

    JBL is another speaker company that can be opted for a 2.1 soundbar. Enhanced by Dolby Digital technology, this sound system delivers 3D audio effects. With 220-watt power output, this soundbar comes with two full-range drivers and a wireless subwoofer that gives loud audio with thumping bass, without hassling of loose wires or cables. This speaker unit can easily be connected to mobile devices, tablets, TVs, etc. with the availability of ports including HDMI (ARC), and Optical, and for wireless connection, Bluetooth connectivity is also provided, listing it among one of the best soundbars. Additionally, a Voice Button is provided on the remote control that offers enhanced and clear audio/ dialogue instantly.

    Specifications

    • Brand: JBL
    • Speaker Maximum Output Power: 220 Watts
    • Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, Optical, HDMI
    • Audio Output Mode: Surround
    • Mounting Type: Wall Mount
    • Warranty: 1 year

    Pros

    • Compact size
    • Is compatible with the TV’s remote control
    • Smart Standby Mode to save energy

    Cons

    • A few users found connectivity issues
    05
  • CrossBeats Blaze B600 2.1 Home Theatre 200W Sound bar for TV with subwoofer

    Next is this soundbar with 2.1 channels from the brand, CrossBeats. One can enjoy loud audio with the 200-watt power output, making it perfect for movie watching and music listening. Multiple connectivity options are available - Bluetooth, Auxiliary, USB, Optical, HDMI, etc. for a better user experience. Notably, one can easily connect this soundbar to a TV, offering an immersive experience. Multiple sound modes are provided like - Music, Movie, and News for an individualized experience. Also, this audio unit adjusts the depth of sound and delivers distortion-free audio. In addition to this, Treble and bass controls are available on the user-friendly remote control. 

     Specifications

    • Brand: CrossBeats
    • Speaker Maximum Output Power: 200 Watts
    • Frequency Response: 20000 KHz
    • Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, Auxiliary, USB, Optical, HDMI
    • Audio Output Mode: Surround
    • Warranty: 1 year

    Pros

    • Aesthetically appealing design 
    • Wall-mountable

    Cons

    • None
    06
  • boAt Aavante Bar Mystiq

    Still looking for a 2.1-channel soundbar? Take a look at this speaker unit from boAt that offers a 100-watt power output for loud and clear audio. The boAt Signature sound gives premium audio quality for better visuals and listening experience. Four EQ modes are provided - Music, Movies, News, and 3D for a dynamic and immersive audio experience. Being one of the best 2.1 soundbars available in the market, it can easily be connected to both wired and wireless devices with the availability of Bluetooth V5.3, AUX, USB, Optical, and HDMI(ARC). Along with this, a remote control is provided that has a user-friendly interface for convenience usage and offers bass and treble controls too.

    Specifications

    • Brand: boAt
    • Speaker Maximum Output Power: 1E+2 Watts
    • Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth
    • Audio Output Mode: Surround
    • Mounting Type: Tabletop Mount
    • Warranty: 1 year

    Pros

    • Can wall mount or place on a tabletop
    • Compatible with smartphones, tablets, televisions, etc.
    • Easy to install

    Cons

    • Users gave mixed reviews of connectivity technology.
    07

2.1 Soundbar Vs 5.1 Soundbar

There are many differences between a 2.1 soundbar and a 5.1 soundbar.

  • A 2.1 soundbar consists of two speakers while the 5.1 unit has 5 speakers, offering loud audio comparatively. 
  • A 5.1 soundbar offers loud and clear audio as compared to a soundbar with a 2.1 channel. Also, the 5.1 unit comes with an additional center channel for clearer dialogue, elevating the content-viewing experience. 
  • Notably, a 2.1 soundbar is easy to install when compared to a 5.1 soundbar as it comes with less equipment and the rear satellite speakers in the 5.1 soundbar require more energy for installation.  
  • A 5.1 soundbar is more expensive than a 2.1 soundbar.
  • A 2.1 soundbar is ideal for music listening only while a 5.1 soundbar is ideal for watching movies and TV as it comes with a center channel for clear dialogues. 

Factors To Consider In A Soundbar

There are many things one should consider while installing or choosing a soundbar for their home. Such as:

  • Room Size: It is necessary to consider the size of the room while choosing a speaker unit as factors such as channel, power output, number of speakers, etc. depend on it. 
  • Number Of Channels: One can choose the channels from 2 to 7 as per requirement and budget. For music listening, a 2.1 soundbar is ideal while for a more upgraded experience, a 5.1 or 7.1-channel soundbar would be apt. 
  • Consider audio format while choosing a soundbar as it plays a great role in a cinematic experience. 
  • Connectivity Technology: A good soundbar offers both wired and wireless connections for a better user experience. Check out the connectivity ports while choosing one. 
  • The presence or absence of a subwoofer also impacts the audio-listening experience. Check it out and also consider if the soundbar comes with wired or is wireless.
  • Consider brands as there are many manufacturers available in the market that offer a wide range of soundbars. 
  • Mounting Type: Based on your room and space, consider the installation type of the soundbar, whether it is wall-mounted or can be placed on a tabletop or both.

Read More: Best Samsung Dolby Atmos Soundbars in India

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Faq's

  • Is 5.1 or 2.1 better for music?
    +
    A 2.1 channel is better for music listening. However, if someone wants to enjoy an upgraded music listening or content viewing experience, a 5.1-channel soundbar would be a better choice.
  • Is a 5.1 soundbar worth it?
    +
    A 5.1 soundbar offers clear dialogue, amping up the content viewing experience. Additionally, one can enjoy clear and loud audio while playing games or listening to music. Hence, a soundbar with a 5.1 channel is worth having.
  • What size room is needed for a 5.1 soundbar?
    +
    A 5.1 soundbar is ideal for rooms larger than 250 square feet with a width of 15 feet as it offers true surround sound even in such a spacious area.