The 10 Best Wireless Surround Sound Speakers
Editor's Notes
December 20, 2020:
One thing to be aware of when searching for wireless surround speakers is that many systems market themselves as wireless, when it is actually only the subwoofer or perhaps another component that is wireless and the surround sound speakers still require hardwiring. We have made sure that no models like that have found their way onto this list. Every unit is truly wireless, including the subwoofer, satellite speakers, and any others that are included the package. Please be aware though, they will generally require a wire from the hub to your TV.
February 22, 2019:
Until recently, wireless speakers and sound systems had been a fairly large disappointment. The losses in audio quality due to outdated Bluetooth codecs and the like were unforgivable. One had to decide whether they really wanted to do away with a few wires at the cost of high-definition sound. Finally, this is changing. While some are looking for an inexpensive, minimal set-up like a standalone subwoofer or a soundbar with a pair of tweeter-equipped speakers, others are aiming to transform their entertainment room into a home theater. For those who fall into the latter camp, the Sonos 5.1 is the obvious choice. Yes, you're paying extra for the name and all the marketing that has gone into building said name, but it truly is a fantastic work of engineering. Between its slew of features (speech enhancement, night mode, smooth integration with Alexa & streaming services, the cleverness of Trueplay, etc.), and its triumphant, crystalline aural reproduction, it's worth shelling out the money. On the other hand, if your relationship with sound and home entertainment is merely casual, great options exist at a fair price. Even our #10 pick, the Vizio 2.1, is pretty impressive and affordable. At a budget-friendly price you get a soundbar and a fairly good subwoofer. Those upgrading from the travesty of built-in television speakers will marvel at the upgrade. Yes, most (read:all) of these options aren't completely wireless, but at the moment, such options don't exist. Most systems need, at the very least, to have a direct power source running to the receiver or central unit. Still, nearly all these subwoofers and auxiliary speakers are able to operate without cables, and because of this, you're spared the sight of having multiple speaker cables running across the middle of the floor or snaking along the sides of the room.