As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
- Best overall: LG S80TR 5.1.3-Channel Soundbar
- Best budget: LG S40T 2.1-Channel Soundbar
- Best premium: LG S95TR 9.1.5-Channel Soundbar
- Best for Apple households: Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB
- Choose an LG soundbar to improve TV audio with dedicated speakers, subwoofers, or surround channels.
- Choose Apple TV 4K for a fast streaming interface and Apple services; Apple TV 4K is not a soundbar.
- LG S95TR 9.1.5-Channel Soundbar is the premium surround-sound pick, with 9.1.5 channels and included rear speakers.
- LG S40T 2.1-Channel Soundbar suits buyers who want a compact step up from built-in TV speakers.
- Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB is the strongest fit for Apple households that want wired networking.
LG soundbars and Apple TV 4K solve different home-entertainment problems: LG soundbars improve television audio, while Apple TV 4K streams video and apps. For Black Friday 2026, compare them by the job you want done rather than treating them as direct substitutes. I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to identify the best fit across premium surround sound, simple TV-audio upgrades and Apple streaming.
On paper, an LG soundbar with a subwoofer and rear speakers offers a much more immersive sound system than a television alone. Apple TV 4K adds a streaming interface, 4K video, Dolby Vision on supported content and Apple ecosystem features, but it does not include speakers. The short version: buy an LG soundbar for sound, Apple TV 4K for streaming, or pair them when your setup needs both.
How We Picked
- Compared channel layouts, stated system power and included speakers for each LG soundbar.
- Checked Apple TV 4K storage, networking, video-format support and audio-format support.
- Prioritized clear use cases, including home theater, smaller rooms, dialogue, streaming and Apple-device households.
- Reviewed owner feedback for recurring setup and usability considerations without treating individual experiences as universal.
- Selected products with distinct roles so buyers can separate an audio upgrade from a streaming-device upgrade.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Audio channels | Rated system power | Included subwoofer/rears |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LG S95TR 9.1.5-Channel Soundbar | Immersive home theater | 9.1.5 | 810 W | Wireless subwoofer; rear speakers included |
| LG S90TR 7.1.3-Channel Soundbar | Mid-size-room surround | 7.1.3 | 670 W | Wireless subwoofer; rear speakers included |
| LG S80TR 5.1.3-Channel Soundbar | Atmos movies and rear sound | 5.1.3 | 580 W | Wireless subwoofer; rear speakers included |
| LG S70TY 3.1.1-Channel Soundbar | Dialogue and compact height effects | 3.1.1 | 400 W | Wireless subwoofer; no rear speakers |
| LG SG10TY 3.1-Channel Soundbar | Streamlined LG TV setup | 3.1 | 420 W | Wireless subwoofer; no rear speakers |
| LG S40T 2.1-Channel Soundbar | Small rooms and basic TV audio | 2.1 | 300 W | Wireless subwoofer; no rear speakers |
| Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi 64GB | Wireless Apple streaming | N/A | N/A | No speakers included |
| Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB | Apple streaming with Ethernet | N/A | N/A | No speakers included |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1
LG S95TR 9.1.5-Channel Soundbar
The LG S95TR 9.1.5-Channel Soundbar is the best premium home-theater soundbar for viewers who want full surround sound, with 9.1.5 channels and included rear speakers.
Best for: Immersive surround sound in a larger room
- Audio channels
- 9.1.5
- Rated system power
- 810 W
- Included subwoofer
- Wireless
- Included rear speakers
- Yes
- High channel count with dedicated rear speakers
- Dolby Atmos support
- Wireless subwoofer is included
- Needs more room and setup space than a compact soundbar
Is the LG S95TR 9.1.5-Channel Soundbar worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The LG S95TR 9.1.5-Channel Soundbar is worth considering for a dedicated home-theater setup. The LG S95TR 9.1.5-Channel Soundbar's 9.1.5-channel system, wireless subwoofer and included rear speakers provide a fuller surround package than a basic TV soundbar.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#2
LG S90TR 7.1.3-Channel Soundbar
The LG S90TR 7.1.3-Channel Soundbar is the best balanced surround system for viewers who want rear speakers without stepping up to a 9.1.5 layout, with 7.1.3 channels.
Best for: Surround sound in a mid-size living room
- Audio channels
- 7.1.3
- Rated system power
- 670 W
- Included subwoofer
- Wireless
- Included rear speakers
- Yes
- Separate rear speakers create surround effects
- Dolby Atmos support
- Wireless subwoofer is part of the system
- Requires more setup than a single-bar system
Is the LG S90TR 7.1.3-Channel Soundbar a good Black Friday 2026 pick?
The LG S90TR 7.1.3-Channel Soundbar is a good pick for buyers who want surround sound and a wireless subwoofer in one package. The LG S90TR 7.1.3-Channel Soundbar's 7.1.3 layout sits between compact bars and LG’s higher-channel premium system.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#3 · Top pick
LG S80TR 5.1.3-Channel Soundbar
The LG S80TR 5.1.3-Channel Soundbar is the best mid-range surround package for movie fans who want height and rear channels, with a 5.1.3 layout.
Best for: Dolby Atmos movies without a flagship system
- Audio channels
- 5.1.3
- Rated system power
- 580 W
- Included subwoofer
- Wireless
- Included rear speakers
- Yes
- Includes subwoofer and rear speakers
- Up-firing channels support height effects
- Dolby Atmos compatibility
- Needs space for the rear speakers and subwoofer
Should I buy the LG S80TR 5.1.3-Channel Soundbar on Black Friday 2026?
The LG S80TR 5.1.3-Channel Soundbar is a strong choice for buyers who want rear speakers and height effects without selecting LG’s largest channel-count system. The LG S80TR 5.1.3-Channel Soundbar's 5.1.3 configuration supports an expanded movie-audio setup.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#4
LG S70TY 3.1.1-Channel Soundbar
The LG S70TY 3.1.1-Channel Soundbar is the best simpler Atmos-style upgrade for TV viewers who want clearer dialogue and height channels, with 3.1.1 channels.
Best for: TV dialogue and a compact Atmos-capable setup
- Audio channels
- 3.1.1
- Rated system power
- 400 W
- Included subwoofer
- Wireless
- Included rear speakers
- No
- Center channel focuses on dialogue
- Up-firing channel supports height effects
- Wireless subwoofer is included
- No separate rear speakers in the package
Is the LG S70TY 3.1.1-Channel Soundbar worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The LG S70TY 3.1.1-Channel Soundbar is worth considering for a straightforward TV-audio upgrade. The LG S70TY 3.1.1-Channel Soundbar's center channel supports clearer dialogue, while the up-firing channel and wireless subwoofer add a broader presentation than built-in TV speakers.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#5
LG SG10TY 3.1-Channel Soundbar
The LG SG10TY 3.1-Channel Soundbar is the best streamlined match for compatible LG televisions for viewers who value a clean installation, with 3.1 channels.
Best for: A neat setup with a compatible LG TV
- Audio channels
- 3.1
- Rated system power
- 420 W
- Included subwoofer
- Wireless
- Dolby Atmos
- Supported
- Slim design suits wall-mounted televisions
- Dolby Atmos support
- Wireless subwoofer is included
- Does not include separate rear speakers
Is the LG SG10TY 3.1-Channel Soundbar a good match for an LG TV?
The LG SG10TY 3.1-Channel Soundbar is a good match for compatible LG televisions and a tidy wall-mounted setup. The LG SG10TY 3.1-Channel Soundbar's 3.1-channel design and wireless subwoofer add a dedicated audio system without requiring separate rear speakers.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#6
LG S40T 2.1-Channel Soundbar
The LG S40T 2.1-Channel Soundbar is the best basic soundbar upgrade for viewers with limited space, with a 2.1-channel system and wireless subwoofer.
Best for: Small rooms and first soundbar upgrades
- Audio channels
- 2.1
- Rated system power
- 300 W
- Included subwoofer
- Wireless
- Included rear speakers
- No
- Simple alternative to built-in TV speakers
- Wireless subwoofer adds bass support
- Compact system is easier to place
- No dedicated center or rear channels
Is the LG S40T 2.1-Channel Soundbar worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The LG S40T 2.1-Channel Soundbar is a sensible first soundbar for smaller rooms and straightforward TV use. The LG S40T 2.1-Channel Soundbar's 2.1-channel setup includes a wireless subwoofer, while its simpler layout avoids the extra speakers required by surround systems.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#7
Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi 64GB
The Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi 64GB is the best compact streaming upgrade for Apple users who do not need wired networking, with 64GB of storage.
Best for: Apple users who mainly stream video
- Storage
- 64 GB
- Processor
- A15 Bionic
- Video output
- 4K
- Networking
- Wi-Fi 6
- Access to Apple TV app and streaming apps
- Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support
- Dolby Atmos audio support
- Does not improve speaker output on its own
Is the Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi 64GB worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi 64GB is a good streaming-device choice for Apple households that rely on wireless networking. The device supports 4K video, Dolby Vision and HDR10+, but a separate television or sound system handles playback.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#8
Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB
The Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB is the best connected streaming box for Apple users who want wired networking, with 128GB of storage.
Best for: Apple households that prefer Ethernet
- Storage
- 128 GB
- Processor
- A15 Bionic
- Video output
- 4K
- Networking
- Wi-Fi 6 and Gigabit Ethernet
- Wired Ethernet option
- Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support
- Works with Apple services and compatible devices
- A streaming device rather than a soundbar
Should I buy the Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB is the better fit when wired networking or additional storage matters. The device streams 4K content and supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos with compatible equipment.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
Should I buy an LG soundbar or Apple TV 4K?
LG soundbars improve TV audio, while Apple TV 4K adds streaming apps and 4K playback; the right choice depends on which part of your setup needs an upgrade. An LG soundbar connects to a television and reproduces sound through dedicated speakers. Apple TV 4K connects to a television as a media player and relies on the TV or another audio system for sound.
Start by naming the problem. Dialogue that is hard to hear, weak bass or a desire for surround effects points toward an LG soundbar. Missing apps, a less convenient streaming interface or a preference for Apple services points toward Apple TV 4K. Buyers with both needs can use the devices together: Apple TV 4K sends video to the television, and the television routes audio to a compatible soundbar.
Which LG soundbar is best for surround sound?
The LG S95TR 9.1.5-Channel Soundbar is the strongest surround pick, with 9.1.5 channels, a wireless subwoofer and included rear speakers. The LG S90TR 7.1.3-Channel Soundbar is a step down in channel count while keeping a dedicated rear-speaker package. Both are aimed at viewers who want a more room-filling presentation than a single bar provides.
The LG S80TR 5.1.3-Channel Soundbar gives buyers another surround option with included rear speakers and height channels. Room layout matters: rear speakers need suitable placement and a power connection, and a subwoofer needs floor space. A compact room or a preference for a simpler setup points toward the LG S70TY 3.1.1-Channel Soundbar or LG S40T 2.1-Channel Soundbar instead.
Does Apple TV 4K improve sound quality?
Apple TV 4K supports Dolby Atmos audio, but Apple TV 4K does not include speakers or independently upgrade a television’s sound. Audio quality depends on the connected television, soundbar, receiver and speakers, along with the content and settings. A compatible sound system is required to hear Atmos as an immersive format.
The Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi 64GB and Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB both serve as streaming players. Pairing either device with an LG soundbar separates the jobs: Apple TV 4K manages streaming, and the soundbar reproduces audio. Check the TV’s HDMI eARC or ARC connection and supported formats before choosing a connection path.
Which Apple TV 4K model should I choose?
The Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi 64GB suits viewers who use wireless networking and want a 4K Apple streaming box. The Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB adds Gigabit Ethernet and double the storage, making it the more flexible configuration for wired home networks and larger app libraries.
Both versions use the A15 Bionic processor and support 4K output, Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos with compatible equipment. Neither version replaces an LG soundbar. For a household already using Apple devices and services, Apple TV 4K provides a consistent streaming experience; for a household focused on better TV sound, an LG soundbar addresses the more relevant need.
Can I use an LG soundbar and Apple TV 4K together?
Yes, Apple TV 4K and an LG soundbar can work together through a compatible television, giving one device responsibility for streaming and the other responsibility for audio. Connect Apple TV 4K to an HDMI input on the television, then connect the soundbar to the TV’s HDMI ARC or eARC port. Select the relevant audio output in the TV settings.
Format support varies by television and soundbar, so check the manuals for Dolby Atmos, passthrough and eARC support before setup. A soundbar with Dolby Atmos support does not guarantee Atmos playback through every source and TV configuration. For straightforward operation, use a high-speed HDMI cable and keep the television, streaming device and soundbar settings aligned.
Buying Guide
Choose the upgrade you need first
Buy an LG soundbar when TV sound is the problem. Choose Apple TV 4K when streaming apps, Apple services or the media-player interface are the priority. Treat the products as complementary, not interchangeable.
Match soundbar channels to your room
The LG S95TR 9.1.5-Channel Soundbar and LG S90TR 7.1.3-Channel Soundbar include rear speakers for surround setups. Simpler 3.1.1- and 2.1-channel systems need less placement space.
Check the TV connections
Confirm the television has HDMI ARC or eARC for a soundbar connection. Check HDMI inputs and video-format support when connecting Apple TV 4K, especially when Dolby Vision, HDR10+ or Dolby Atmos matters.
Pick Apple TV 4K storage and networking
Select the 64GB Wi-Fi model for a primarily wireless setup. Choose the 128GB Wi-Fi + Ethernet model for a wired connection or extra storage. Both provide 4K streaming.
Plan speaker and cable placement
Measure the space for the soundbar, subwoofer and any rear speakers before buying. Confirm available outlets and cable routes. Apple TV 4K requires a television and a network connection for streaming.
FAQ
LG soundbar vs Apple TV 4K: which is better for Black Friday 2026?
An LG soundbar is better for improving TV audio, while Apple TV 4K is better for streaming apps and Apple services. The products do different jobs. Choose by your main need, or pair Apple TV 4K with an LG soundbar for a combined streaming and audio upgrade.
Can Apple TV 4K replace an LG soundbar?
No. Apple TV 4K is a streaming device, not a speaker system. Apple TV 4K provides video and audio signals to compatible equipment, while an LG soundbar plays sound through dedicated speakers. A television or sound system is still needed for audio playback.
Which LG soundbar is best for Dolby Atmos?
The LG S95TR 9.1.5-Channel Soundbar is the premium Atmos choice in this guide, with 9.1.5 channels and rear speakers. The LG S90TR 7.1.3-Channel Soundbar and LG S80TR 5.1.3-Channel Soundbar are surround alternatives. Atmos playback requires compatible content and connections.
What is the difference between the Apple TV 4K 64GB and 128GB models?
The Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi 64GB uses Wi-Fi and includes 64GB storage. The Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB adds Gigabit Ethernet and doubles storage. Both use the A15 Bionic processor and support 4K video.
Can I connect Apple TV 4K to an LG soundbar?
Yes. Connect Apple TV 4K to an HDMI input on the television, then connect the LG soundbar to the television’s HDMI ARC or eARC port. Check the television and soundbar manuals for supported audio formats, passthrough settings and Dolby Atmos compatibility.
Which LG soundbar is best for a small room?
The LG S40T 2.1-Channel Soundbar is the simplest small-room option in this guide, with a compact bar and wireless subwoofer. The LG S70TY 3.1.1-Channel Soundbar adds a center channel and height channel for buyers who want a more expansive setup.