A soundbar with Google Chromecast built-in increases the convenience of casting and streaming content—but not if the microphone array can’t pick up your voice or the connection is weak! To help you create a seamless audio system, our experts have put together a list of the best Chromecast soundbars.
Reviews of the Best Chromecast Soundbars
1. Polk Audio MagniFi Max SR Soundbar
Our experts were thoroughly impressed by the 7 powerful drivers embedded into this slim profile. Paired with Polk’s SDA and Voice Adjust technologies, the MagniFi Max SR soundbar delivers room-shaking audio.
You will experience true surround sound with the help of an external subwoofer and rear speakers to completely envelope your living room.
The soundbar is both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enabled for wireless streaming. Google Chromecast is also built right in to turn your soundbar into an entire wireless home system. Moreover, Google Assistant offers hands-free control.
What We Like
- Slim design
- Polk’s SDA and Voice Adjust technologies
- External subwoofer
- Sleek design with red detailing
- Satellite rear speakers
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
- Compatible with Google Assistant
- Night mode
- Flexible placement
What We Don't Like
- Requires more room
- Occasional updates are necessary
2. Polk Audio Signa S3 Soundbar
You will get powerful sound packed into a minimal and understated soundbar with the Polk Audio Signa S3 soundbar. It also comes with Polk’s Voice Adjust technology and is capable of Dolby Digital decoding to reduce delays and optimize speech.
The soundbar comes with its own external subwoofer to deliver thunderous bass with the help of mid-range drivers and tweeters to produce all octave ranges. Furthermore, you can connect the soundbar to your TV with the HDMI ARC to experience unparalleled audio relays.
You will also be able to stream music from the Bluetooth enabled soundbar. Google Chromecast is also an option, which is built into the system via Wi-Fi.
What We Like
- Small and slim profile
- External subwoofer
- Polk’s Voice Adjust technology to emphasize speech
- Dolby Digital decoding
- HDMI ARC available
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth streaming
What We Don't Like
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth streaming
- Soft remote buttons
3. Definitive Technology Studio Advance 5.1 Soundbar
Even without surround speakers, the Definitive Technology Studio Advance 5.1 soundbar is capable of true surround sound. The presence of 5 channels and one powerful external subwoofer will fill the room with high definition audio and room-filling bass.
The soundbar features an impressive number of 9 drivers and DSP (digital signal processing) [1] enhanced decoding technology to provide accurate sonic tuning your ears can’t help but notice.
You can connect the Studio Advance soundbar with HDMI ARC to handle high-quality loads. You can also cast content with Google Chromecast and control your entire system hands-free with Google Assistant.
What We Like
- 5.1 true surround sound
- External subwoofer
- 9 powerful drivers
- DSP-enhanced decoding
- HDMI ARC
- Voice control
- Movie, music and night modes
- Bluetooth enabled
What We Don't Like
- No equalizer
- No indicator lights on subwoofer
Chromecast Soundbar Buyer’s Guide
It takes a lot more for a soundbar to have Chromecast built-in to earn a spot on our list. Our experts have broken down other factors to look for in the best Chromecast soundbar.
Interested in connecting your device to a receiver? You might be better off checking our list of the best passive soundbars.
Chromecast Support
Look for a soundbar with the support of Chromecast. Chromecast is a streaming platform that allows users to play their favorite content via Wi-Fi. Soundbars with Chromecast built-in means you don’t need a separate device to play your content.
Connectivity Options
With Chromecast built-in, your soundbar will definitely be Wi-Fi enabled. Look for Bluetooth wireless streaming if you plan on connecting external devices.
(Need steps for connecting your soundbar for your LG TV? We can help.)
HDMI ARC is the best wired connection option for high-quality content. It can handle higher-resolution audio such as 5.1, 7.1, and Blu-Ray.
Sound Quality
What kind of advanced audio technologies does your Chromecast soundbar come with? Dolby and DTS:X technologies are the best and top of the line in the industry. You may also come across brand-specific audio enhancement technologies such as Sony S-Force, LG Meridian and Polk’s Voice Adjust technology.
Multi-room Capability
A Chromecast soundbar will work with your Google Home system and even offer voice control. With Wi-Fi connection, you can connect all your smart devices together to create a multi-room home system.
Price
You don’t have to pay through the nose to enjoy the benefits of Chromecast. Our audio team has found the best premium and budget options for people shopping in any price range.
Subwoofer
An external subwoofer included with your Chromecast soundbar will ensure thundering bass notes. But a subwoofer can be built into your soundbar as well. Although it is nowhere near as powerful as an external sub, it’s still a great option for those who are tight on space.
Channels
For true surround sound, your soundbar needs 5 or more channels. 5 channels will include left and right channels, a center channel dedicated to speech enhancement, and 2 rear channels.
Working in tandem with upward-firing speakers, a 5 or more channel soundbar is capable of optimizing your room layout to deliver immersive sound.
How does Chromecast work?
Chromecast works by casting your content through the soundbar’s advanced speaker system for you to enjoy improved audio. Simply set up your device on the Google Home app, search for your preferred streaming services, and press “Cast”.
Advantages of Chromecast built-in for audio
Having Chromecast built-in makes the soundbar easier to use. There is no setup required of an additional Chromecast device and the built-in Wi-Fi signal is better than streaming with Bluetooth because it gives you a wider range of movement. This also allows you to use your phone while enjoying your music.
Our Top Pick For A Chromecast Soundbar:
Polk Audio MagniFI Max SR
To our experts, the Polk Audio MagniFi Max Sr soundbar is the best Chromecast soundbar. It’s an easy Polk plug-and-play design and setup with two rear speakers and a wireless subwoofer to produce dynamic enveloping sound.
Incorporated with Polk’s Voice Adjust and SDA Audio technologies, you will receive enhanced dialogue and enjoy movie, music, and sports modes with higher clarity.
Have more space for true surround sound? Consider investing in soundbars with wireless rear speakers.
