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Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar Review | 109 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£880
  • Avg. price in US: ~$1,000
  • N. of audio channels: 5.1.2
  • Audio output power: ?
  • HDMI ARC type: eARC

Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar review. Compare 109 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among soundbars and if it is worth buying.

7.8

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the soundbar's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best soundbars on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

7.5

Technical Score

20.0%

9.1

User score

Very good
7.5

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the soundbar's technical performance, covering key areas such as audio quality, channel configuration, connectivity, HDMI and wireless features, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare soundbars based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

25.0%

7.4

Audio

18.0%

7.0

Formats

16.0%

8.0

Connectivity

14.0%

8.4

Controls

12.0%

7.0

HDMI & Gaming

10.0%

8.3

Smart features

5.0%

5.4

Design

Very good
9.1

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the soundbar.

When it matters: When you want to know how a soundbar sounds in real use and how satisfied owners are with dialogue clarity, bass, and ease of setup.

Score components:

70.0%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(948)
amazon
4.3
(171)
amazon
4.4
(77)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Exceptional
  • 8.3
    Movies

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Dolby Atmos

    25.0%

    8.4

    N. of audio channels

    20.0%

    4.0

    Subwoofer included

    15.0%

    9.0

    Audio output power

    15.0%

    10

    HDMI ARC type

  • 7.4
    Gaming

    Score components:

    35.0%

    4.0

    HDMI pass-through frame rate

    30.0%

    10

    HDMI ARC type

    20.0%

    8.4

    N. of audio channels

    15.0%

    9.0

    Audio output power

  • 7.1
    Music

    Score components:

    20.0%

    9.0

    Audio output power

    20.0%

    4.0

    Subwoofer included

    20.0%

    2.5

    Equalizer bands

    15.0%

    10

    N. of supported Bluetooth codecs

    15.0%

    10

    Wi-Fi connectivity

    5.0%

    10

    Spotify Connect

    5.0%

    10

    Bluetooth connectivity

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a premium 5.1.2-channel flagship system featuring nine drivers, including two upward-firing dipole speakers and a dedicated center tweeter to deliver immersive Dolby Atmos and TrueSpace spatial audio. Measuring 104.5 cm wide and 5.8 cm tall, this sleek unit incorporates a tempered glass top and provides versatile connectivity via HDMI eARC, optical, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, AirPlay 2, and Chromecast. Its standout characteristics include an AI Dialogue Mode for enhanced vocal clarity and ADAPTiQ room calibration for tailored acoustics. Main pros include its expansive soundstage, robust build quality, and seamless integration with Alexa and Google Assistant; however, it lacks DTS:X support and an additional HDMI input, and it may require an optional external subwoofer for deep low-end bass performance.

Technical Specifications of soundbar Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the soundbar's technical performance, covering key areas such as audio quality, channel configuration, connectivity, HDMI and wireless features, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare soundbars based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

25.0%

7.4

Audio

18.0%

7.0

Formats

16.0%

8.0

Connectivity

14.0%

8.4

Controls

12.0%

7.0

HDMI & Gaming

10.0%

8.3

Smart features

5.0%

5.4

Design

7.5
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has a technical score of 7.47 points, which is higher than that of 89.4% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the soundbar.

When it matters: When you want to know how a soundbar sounds in real use and how satisfied owners are with dialogue clarity, bass, and ease of setup.

Score components:

70.0%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(948)
amazon
4.3
(171)
amazon
4.4
(77)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

9.1
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has a user score of 9.14 points, which is higher than that of 92.6% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the soundbar.
When it matters: When you prefer to choose a soundbar reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
10
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 77.7% of smartphones.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the soundbar's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a soundbar with a good balance between audio quality, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

7.8

Overall score

40.0%

5.9

Price

7.2
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.2 points, which is higher than 70.2% of smartphones.
Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand under which the soundbar is marketed and sold.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Bose
N. of audio channels
What it is: Shows how many separate audio channels the system is built to reproduce, such as left, center, surround, height, and subwoofer channels.
When it matters: When you are deciding between a simpler bar and a setup built for wider surround placement, clearer center dialogue, or more immersive height effects.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=5.1

5.1.2
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has a number of audio channels of 5.1.2, higher than 93.1% of soundbars and equal to 2.1% of soundbars.
Standalone configuration kept; expandable/virtual claims ignored.
Audio output power
What it is: Total continuous or peak audio output power, measured in watts.
When it matters: When you need enough headroom to fill a larger room or listen at higher volume without the system feeling strained.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >100 W

?
Max SPL
What it is: Maximum sound pressure level output, measured in dB SPL.
When it matters: When you use the soundbar in a large room, listen at high volume, or want it to stay convincing during action-heavy movies and parties.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >90 dB SPL

?
Min frequency
What it is: Lowest reproducible audio frequency, measured in hertz.
When it matters: When deep bass extension matters and you want to know how low the system is supposed to reach.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <50 Hz

50 Hz
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has a min frequency of 50 Hz, lower than 50.7% of soundbars and equal to 13.5% of soundbars.
Standalone measured/claimed floor used; weaker estimate ignored.
Show more
Dolby Atmos
What it is: Means the soundbar can play Dolby Atmos soundtracks, which add height information on top of normal surround channels for a more three-dimensional presentation.
When it matters: When you watch a lot of movies or shows with Atmos tracks and want a more enveloping sense of space than standard surround usually provides.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Dolby Atmos. 20.6% of soundbars include this feature.
DTS:X
What it is: Can handle DTS:X object-based surround audio from compatible sources.
When it matters: When your library includes DTS:X content and you want the soundbar to reproduce its surround effects properly.

Importance: HIGH

no
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar does not support DTS:X. 10.6% of soundbars include this feature.
Dolby TrueHD
What it is: Can decode Dolby TrueHD, a lossless surround format often used on Blu-ray and higher-end local media setups.
When it matters: When you play disc-based or local media and want lossless Dolby audio support.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Dolby TrueHD. 17.6% of soundbars include this feature.
Lossless playback requires HDMI eARC.
DTS-HD Master Audio
What it is: Can decode DTS-HD Master Audio, a lossless DTS format used on many Blu-ray releases.
When it matters: When your movie library includes discs or files with higher-quality DTS soundtracks.

Importance: HIGH

no
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar does not support DTS-HD Master Audio. 10.6% of soundbars include this feature.
Dolby Digital Plus
What it is: Can decode Dolby Digital Plus, a higher-efficiency surround format used widely by streaming services.
When it matters: When you stream movies and shows from modern apps that commonly deliver audio in Dolby Digital Plus.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Dolby Digital Plus. 25.5% of soundbars include this feature.
Show more
N. of HDMI inputs
What it is: Number of HDMI input ports available.
When it matters: When several consoles, streamers, or players may need to plug into the soundbar directly.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=1

1
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has a number of HDMI inputs of 1, higher than 68.1% of soundbars and equal to 27.1% of soundbars.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Can join a wireless network for streaming, app control, updates, and smart-platform features.
When it matters: When you want better streaming stability, direct app playback, or smart features beyond Bluetooth alone.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Wi-Fi connectivity. 31.7% of soundbars include this feature.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: Supported Wi-Fi version or standard (e.g., Wi-Fi 5, 6, 6E).
When it matters: When your network setup uses newer Wi-Fi standards and you want better compatibility or wireless stability.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Wi-Fi 5/6

Wi-Fi 5
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar uses Wi-Fi Wi-Fi 5, which is newer than that of 71.9% of soundbars and the same as that of 23.4% of soundbars.
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Can receive audio wirelessly over Bluetooth from phones, tablets, computers, and other compatible sources.
When it matters: When you want fast casual streaming from nearby devices without relying on Wi-Fi setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Bluetooth connectivity. 96.3% of soundbars include this feature.
Bluetooth version
What it is: Supported Bluetooth specification version.
When it matters: When you care about newer Bluetooth efficiency, compatibility, and connection behavior with modern source devices.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

5.0
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar uses Bluetooth 5.0, which is newer than that of 38.5% of soundbars and the same as that of 47.8% of soundbars.
Show more
Smartphone app
What it is: Can be configured or controlled through a dedicated mobile app.
When it matters: When you prefer changing inputs, updates, sound modes, or calibration settings from your phone.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has smartphone app. 34.9% of soundbars offer this feature.
Remote control
What it is: Comes with or supports a physical handheld remote for everyday operation.
When it matters: When you want quick volume, input, and sound-mode control without opening an app.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has remote control. 73.5% of soundbars offer this feature.
Control panel
What it is: Design and layout of the onboard control panel.
When it matters: When you want easier everyday control.

Importance: HIGH

no
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar does not have control panel. 91.3% of soundbars offer this feature.
Voice assistant compatibility
What it is: Works with one or more voice-assistant platforms such as Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri workflows.
When it matters: When voice control is part of how you start playback, change volume, or integrate the bar into smart-home routines.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports voice assistant compatibility. 30.9% of soundbars include this feature.
Far-field microphones
What it is: Built-in far-field microphones for voice assistant use.
When it matters: When you want hands-free control or built-in voice features.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has far-field microphones. 12.2% of soundbars offer this feature.
Show more
HDMI version
What it is: Version of the HDMI standard supported for input/output.
When it matters: When you need the HDMI link to handle newer video, gaming, or audio-return features in your setup.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 2.1

2.1
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar uses HDMI 2.1, which is newer than that of 89.8% of soundbars and the same as that of 10.2% of soundbars.
HDMI ARC type
What it is: Shows whether the soundbar uses ARC or eARC for TV audio over HDMI. ARC covers basic return audio, while eARC supports higher-bandwidth formats such as lossless Dolby Atmos and generally gives you more headroom for advanced TV-to-soundbar audio.
When it matters: When the TV will send sound back to the soundbar over HDMI and you care about getting the best audio formats your TV and streaming devices can pass through.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: eARC

eARC
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has eARC as its HDMI TV-audio return type, which is more advanced than what 79.6% of soundbars offer and the same as what 20.5% offers.
HDMI-CEC support
What it is: Lets compatible devices share basic commands like power, volume, and input switching over HDMI.
When it matters: When you want simpler everyday use, such as controlling volume with the TV remote and having the soundbar turn on with the TV.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has HDMI-CEC support. 64.1% of soundbars offer this feature.
HDMI pass-through resolution
What it is: Maximum video resolution supported through HDMI pass-through.
When it matters: When you connect external players or consoles through the soundbar.

Importance: MEDIUM

none
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports HDMI pass-through up to none, which is the same as that of 77.3% of soundbars.
HDMI pass-through frame rate
What it is: Maximum frame rate supported for HDMI pass-through.
When it matters: When you connect gaming devices through the soundbar.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=120 fps

none fps
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has a HDMI pass-through frame rate of none fps, equal to 81.3% of soundbars.
Show more
AirPlay
What it is: Supports Apple AirPlay or AirPlay 2 for network-based streaming from Apple devices and apps.
When it matters: When your home setup is built around Apple devices and you want smooth wireless playback across that ecosystem.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports AirPlay. 20.1% of soundbars include this feature.
Chromecast built-in
What it is: Includes Chromecast so audio can be cast directly from compatible apps over Wi-Fi.
When it matters: When you want quick app-based casting from Android, Chrome, or supported streaming services without Bluetooth pairing.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Chromecast built-in. 11.7% of soundbars include this feature.
Supports Chromecast built-in.
Spotify Connect
What it is: Can receive Spotify streams directly over the network without routing playback through your phone over Bluetooth.
When it matters: When you use Spotify often and want your phone free for calls, battery, or other apps while music keeps playing.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Spotify Connect. 22.9% of soundbars include this feature.
TIDAL Connect
What it is: Can receive TIDAL streams directly over the network without using Bluetooth from the phone as the audio path.
When it matters: When you use TIDAL regularly and want direct streaming with less dependence on your phone staying involved.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar does not support TIDAL Connect. 7.6% of soundbars include this feature.
Amazon Music native support
What it is: Native integration with Amazon Music service.
When it matters: When you stream music directly from apps and ecosystems you already use.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has Amazon Music native support. 20.9% of soundbars offer this feature.
Available via the Bose Music app.
Show more
Width
What it is: Overall width of the soundbar.
When it matters: When you want the bar to match the TV size better or fit a narrow cabinet cleanly.

Importance: HIGH

1,045 mm
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has a width of 1,045 mm, higher than 89.1% of soundbars and equal to 0.6% of soundbars.
Height
What it is: Overall height of the soundbar.
When it matters: When clearance under the TV is limited and you do not want the bar covering the lower edge of the picture.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <70 mm

58 mm
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has a height of 58 mm, lower than 82.2% of soundbars and equal to 3.2% of soundbars.
Thickness
What it is: The front-to-back depth of the soundbar body.
When it matters: When you need the soundbar to fit neatly on furniture, under the TV, or close to the wall without sticking out too much.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <90 mm

107 mm
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is 107 mm thick, thicker than 74.7% of soundbars and equal to 1.7% of soundbars.
Weight
What it is: Total weight of the soundbar unit.
When it matters: When wall mounting, shelf strength, or how easy the bar is to move and position matters.

Importance: MEDIUM

5,800 g
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar weighs 5,800 g, more than 92.4% of soundbars of soundbars.
Build material
What it is: Material used for cabinet or body construction.
When it matters: When finish quality, cabinet feel, and how premium the bar looks in the room matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

plastic
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar uses plastic for the build material, which is different from that of 5% of soundbars and the same as that of 91.6% of soundbars.
Glass top panel.
Show more

Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar vs the average soundbar

  • More audio channels
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has more audio channels than the average soundbar (5.1.2 vs 2.0). The average soundbar has 2.0 audio channels.
    Standalone configuration kept; expandable/virtual claims ignored.
    What it is: Shows how many separate audio channels the system is built to reproduce, such as left, center, surround, height, and subwoofer channels.
    When it matters: When you are deciding between a simpler bar and a setup built for wider surround placement, clearer center dialogue, or more immersive height effects.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=5.1

    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has more audio channels than the average soundbar (5.1.2 vs 2.0). The average soundbar has 2.0 audio channels.5.1.2 vs 2.0
  • 1 more HDMI inputs
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has more HDMI inputs than the average soundbar (1 vs 0). The average soundbar has 0 HDMI inputs.
    What it is: Number of HDMI input ports available.
    When it matters: When several consoles, streamers, or players may need to plug into the soundbar directly.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=1

    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has more HDMI inputs than the average soundbar (1 vs 0). The average soundbar has 0 HDMI inputs.1 vs 0
  • Supports Dolby Atmos
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Dolby Atmos, the average soundbar does not.
    What it is: Means the soundbar can play Dolby Atmos soundtracks, which add height information on top of normal surround channels for a more three-dimensional presentation.
    When it matters: When you watch a lot of movies or shows with Atmos tracks and want a more enveloping sense of space than standard surround usually provides.

    Importance: HIGH

    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Dolby Atmos, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports center channel driver
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has center channel driver, the average soundbar does not.
    What it is: Uses a dedicated center-channel driver intended to anchor dialogue and center-screen effects more clearly.
    When it matters: When dialogue clarity is important and you want voices locked more firmly to the center of the screen.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has center channel driver, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports Dolby TrueHD
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Dolby TrueHD, the average soundbar does not.
    Lossless playback requires HDMI eARC.
    What it is: Can decode Dolby TrueHD, a lossless surround format often used on Blu-ray and higher-end local media setups.
    When it matters: When you play disc-based or local media and want lossless Dolby audio support.

    Importance: HIGH

    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Dolby TrueHD, the average soundbar does not.
  • Has Wi-Fi connectivity
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Wi-Fi connectivity, the average soundbar does not.
    What it is: Can join a wireless network for streaming, app control, updates, and smart-platform features.
    When it matters: When you want better streaming stability, direct app playback, or smart features beyond Bluetooth alone.

    Importance: HIGH

    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Wi-Fi connectivity, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports Chromecast built-in
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Chromecast built-in, the average soundbar does not.
    Supports Chromecast built-in.
    What it is: Includes Chromecast so audio can be cast directly from compatible apps over Wi-Fi.
    When it matters: When you want quick app-based casting from Android, Chrome, or supported streaming services without Bluetooth pairing.

    Importance: HIGH

    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Chromecast built-in, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports automatic room calibration
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports automatic room calibration, the average soundbar does not.
    What it is: Measures your room and adjusts the soundbar's tuning automatically so bass, dialogue, and surround effects fit the space better.
    When it matters: When your room layout, walls, or furniture could affect the sound and you want the soundbar to tune itself with less manual trial and error.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports automatic room calibration, the average soundbar does not.
  • More audio channels
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has more audio channels than the average soundbar (5.1.2 vs 2.0). The average soundbar has 2.0 audio channels.
  • Supports center channel driver
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has center channel driver, the average soundbar does not.
  • 5 more drivers
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has more drivers than the average soundbar (9 vs 4). The average soundbar has 4 drivers.
  • Supports upfiring speakers
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports upfiring speakers, the average soundbar does not.
  • Compatible with Wireless rear speaker
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports wireless rear speaker compatibility, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports Dolby Atmos
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Dolby Atmos, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports Dolby TrueHD
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Dolby TrueHD, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports Dolby Digital Plus
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Dolby Digital Plus, the average soundbar does not.
  • 1 more supported Bluetooth codecs
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports more Bluetooth codecs than the average soundbar (2 vs 1). The average soundbar supports 1 Bluetooth codecs.
  • Supports AAC
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports AAC, the average soundbar does not.
  • 1 more HDMI inputs
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has more HDMI inputs than the average soundbar (1 vs 0). The average soundbar has 0 HDMI inputs.
  • Has Wi-Fi connectivity
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Wi-Fi connectivity, the average soundbar does not.
  • 1 more RJ45 ports
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has more RJ45 ports than the average soundbar (1 vs 0). The average soundbar has 0 RJ45 ports.
  • Supports Chromecast built-in
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Chromecast built-in, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports AirPlay
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports AirPlay, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports Spotify Connect
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Spotify Connect, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports multiroom ecosystem
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports multiroom ecosystem support, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports amazon Music native
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Amazon Music native support, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports deezer
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports Deezer support, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports automatic room calibration
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports automatic room calibration, the average soundbar does not.
  • Has smartphone app
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports smartphone app, the average soundbar does not.
  • Has EQ customization (app)
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports eQ customization (app), the average soundbar does not.
  • Compatible with Voice assistant
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports voice assistant compatibility, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports manual audio delay adjustment
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports manual audio delay adjustment, the average soundbar does not.
  • 2 more microphones
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has more microphones than the average soundbar (2 vs 0). The average soundbar has 0 microphones.
  • Supports far-field microphones
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has far-field microphones, the average soundbar does not.
  • 9 mm lower height
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is shorter than the average soundbar (58 mm vs 67 mm). The average soundbar is 67 mm tall.
  • 2 year/s newer release date
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is newer than the average soundbar (2023 vs 2021). The average soundbar was released in 2021.

Total
Overall
Audio
Formats
Connectivity
Smart features
Controls
Design
  • 3 fewer sound modes
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar offers fewer sound modes than the average soundbar (1 vs 4). The average soundbar offers 4 sound modes.
  • 4x higher standby power consumption
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has a higher standby power consumption than the average soundbar (2 W vs 0.5 W). The average soundbar uses 0.5 W in standby.
  • 2.17x higher max power consumption
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar has a higher max power consumption than the average soundbar (65 W vs 30 W). The average soundbar uses 30 W at maximum power.
  • 1 fewer supported audio formats
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar supports fewer audio formats than the average soundbar (1 vs 2). The average soundbar supports 2 audio formats.
  • No USB audio input
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar does not have USB audio input, the average soundbar does.
    no (The USB-C port is for service/updates only, not audio playback)
  • No AUX input
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar does not have AUX input, the average soundbar does.
    no
  • No USB playback
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar does not support USB playback support, the average soundbar does.
    no (USB Type C port is for service only)
  • No control panel
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar does not have control panel, the average soundbar does.
  • 284 mm wider width
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is wider than the average soundbar (1,045 mm vs 761 mm). The average soundbar is 761 mm wide.
  • 3,800 g heavier weight
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is heavier than the average soundbar (5,800 g vs 2,000 g). The average soundbar weighs 2,000 g.
  • 22 mm thicker design
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is thicker than the average soundbar (107 mm vs 85 mm). The average soundbar is 85 mm thick.
  • Fewer color options
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is available in black, white, while the average soundbar is available in black.
    Exact finishes: Black and Arctic White.
  • Less trusted origin
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is from United States, while the average soundbar is from Japan.
  • No USB audio input
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar does not have USB audio input, the average soundbar does.
    no (The USB-C port is for service/updates only, not audio playback)
    What it is: Can receive audio through USB from a compatible host device instead of using only analog or HDMI inputs.
    When it matters: When a computer or compatible source is easiest to connect over USB rather than through another audio output.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar does not have USB audio input, the average soundbar does.
  • No control panel
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar does not have control panel, the average soundbar does.
    What it is: Design and layout of the onboard control panel.
    When it matters: When you want easier everyday control.

    Importance: HIGH

    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar does not have control panel, the average soundbar does.
  • No AUX input
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar does not have AUX input, the average soundbar does.
    no
    What it is: Includes a 3.5 mm analog input for connecting older devices or simple wired audio sources.
    When it matters: When a TV, projector, music player, or other source still relies on analog audio output.

    Importance: LOW

    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar does not have AUX input, the average soundbar does.
  • 3 fewer sound modes
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar offers fewer sound modes than the average soundbar (1 vs 4). The average soundbar offers 4 sound modes.
    What it is: Number of selectable or predefined sound modes.
    When it matters: When you switch between movies, music, news, or gaming often.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=4

    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar offers fewer sound modes than the average soundbar (1 vs 4). The average soundbar offers 4 sound modes.1 vs 4
  • 284 mm wider width
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is wider than the average soundbar (1,045 mm vs 761 mm). The average soundbar is 761 mm wide.
    What it is: Overall width of the soundbar.
    When it matters: When you want the bar to match the TV size better or fit a narrow cabinet cleanly.

    Importance: HIGH

    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is wider than the average soundbar (1,045 mm vs 761 mm). The average soundbar is 761 mm wide.1,045 mm vs 761 mm
  • No USB playback
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar does not support USB playback support, the average soundbar does.
    no (USB Type C port is for service only)
    What it is: Can play audio files directly from a connected USB storage device.
    When it matters: When you keep music on flash drives or want simple local playback without a streaming app.

    Importance: LOW

    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar does not support USB playback support, the average soundbar does.
  • 3,800 g heavier weight
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is heavier than the average soundbar (5,800 g vs 2,000 g). The average soundbar weighs 2,000 g.
    What it is: Total weight of the soundbar unit.
    When it matters: When wall mounting, shelf strength, or how easy the bar is to move and position matters.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is heavier than the average soundbar (5,800 g vs 2,000 g). The average soundbar weighs 2,000 g.5,800 g vs 2,000 g
  • 9.26x more expensive
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is more expensive than the average soundbar (£880 vs £95).
    Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is more expensive than the average soundbar (£880 vs £95).£880 vs £95
Total
Overall
Audio
Formats
Connectivity
Controls
Design

Graphic comparison of Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar and other soundbars

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
948 Reviews
amazon
4.3
171 Reviews
amazon
4.4
77 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar?

  • Excellent dialogue clarity, further enhanced by the specialized AI Dialogue Mode
  • Wide and immersive soundstage with precise spatial audio imaging for a single-unit bar
  • Premium build quality featuring a sleek glass top and metal grille design
  • Extensive wireless connectivity options including AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Spotify Connect
  • Effective ADAPTiQ room calibration system for optimizing sound to specific room acoustics

What customers dislike about Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar?

  • Lack of deep, thumpy bass without an optional external Bose subwoofer
  • Treble can occasionally sound overly bright or 'piercing,' especially at higher volumes
  • Reported HDMI-CEC handshake and connectivity issues with some TV brands like Samsung and LG
  • Reflective glass top can be distracting and is a magnet for fingerprints and smudges
  • Absence of an HDMI Input port for connecting external devices directly through the bar

Expert reviews

H
homesandgardens.com
26/10/2025
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar Review: It Has Phenomenal Sound

The Homes & Gardens review highlights the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar as a high-end, one-piece solution delivering "awe-inspiring," hyper-realistic surround sound with rich, detailed audio across movies, TV, and music. While praising its masterfully balanced profile and sleek design, the review notes drawbacks including a complex setup, occasionally sharp treble, and an AI Dialogue...Read more

W
whathifi.com
29/01/2024
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar review - What Hi-Fi?

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a premium, 5.1.2-channel unit featuring a sleek, low-profile design with a tempered glass top and impressive spatial presentation. It excels in producing a wide, expansive soundstage with effective height for Atmos content and includes helpful ADAPTiQ room calibration, along with robust connectivity like AirPlay 2 and Chromecast. However, What Hi-Fi?...Read more

T
techradar.com
09/11/2023
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar review: a more compact Sonos Arc rival with brains to spare

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar features a premium, compact design with a polished glass top, though this surface is a magnet for fingerprints and can cause screen reflections. Audio performance excels with a wide, organized soundstage and excellent dialogue clarity powered by AI, but the unit lacks significant low-end bass and offers only modest Dolby Atmos height effects. While...Read more

R
rtings.com
15/11/2023
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar Review - RTINGS.com

According to the RTINGS review, the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a premium 5.1.2 standalone unit that delivers a wide, spacious soundstage and clear dialogue, particularly with its AI Dialogue Mode. The soundbar boasts a high-end, durable design with a glass top, extensive wireless connectivity, and effective ADAPTiQ room calibration. However, it lacks deep low-bass for action...Read more

A
au.pcmag.com
05/12/2023
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar - Review 2023 - PCMag Australia Would you like a comparison of how this model's AI Dialogue Mode performs against its predec...

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a premium, one-piece 5.1.2-channel system praised for detailed spatial audio, effective upward-firing drivers, and a sleek, compact design. It features extensive connectivity, including AirPlay 2 and Google Cast, along with ADAPTiQ room calibration and an AI Dialogue Mode for improved vocal clarity, as noted by PCMag Australia. However, the unit is...Read more

G
galaxus.at
13/03/2025
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar: High-end look, but how does it really sound?

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar features a premium, low-profile design with a glass top, offering excellent build quality and a simple setup with extensive streaming options. While the AI Dialogue Mode and ADAPTiQ calibration provide clear speech and effective room tuning, the reflective glass top and high price point are notable drawbacks. Despite producing a wide soundstage, the...Read more

S
stuff.tv
13/12/2023
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar review: superbly built but needs more height

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a premium, compact flagship featuring high-quality construction with a tempered glass top and metallic grille. A key feature is the AI Dialogue Mode, which utilizes machine learning to prioritize vocal clarity, making speech highly intelligible during intense scenes. While aesthetic, the glass top is prone to fingerprints and light reflections....Read more

T
t3.com
28/10/2023
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar review: the ultimate single-box solution?

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a premium, single-box audio solution featuring an exceptionally detailed, balanced soundstage with effective upward-firing drivers for immersive Dolby Atmos performance. It boasts an enhanced AI Dialogue Mode for superior vocal clarity and maintains a sleek design with a tempered glass top, supported by easy setup via HDMI eARC, ADAPTiQ room...Read more

P
pcmag.com
04/12/2023
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar Review - PCMag

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a top-tier, 5.1.2-channel, one-piece home theater system that delivers detailed spatial audio with impressive height from upward-firing drivers. It features an AI Dialogue Mode for enhanced voice clarity and a sleek design with a tempered glass top and ADAPTiQ room calibration. While offering excellent performance and Dolby Atmos support, it is...Read more

M
me.pcmag.com
10/10/2023
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar - Review 2023 - PCMag Middle East Would you like a comparison of how this model's AI Dialogue Mode performs against its pred...

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a premium, 5.1.2-channel flagship, awarded an Editors' Choice by PCMag for delivering balanced, detailed audio with impressive spatial effects from a single unit. Key advantages include robust AI Dialogue Mode for enhanced vocal clarity and ADAPTiQ room calibration, though it is limited by a high $899 price point and lackluster bass without an...Read more

G
galaxus.de
13/03/2025
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar: High-end look, but how does it sound?

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar features a premium, 5.8-cm-high design with a glass finish and effective cable management, offering high-end aesthetics and AI Dialogue Mode. Sound performance is highlighted by clear dialogue and strong bass, while ADAPTiQ calibration and app-based streaming support enhance usability. However, the unit faces high-end competition, with noted drawbacks...Read more

I
impulsegamer.com
07/02/2024
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar Review - Impulse Gamer

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar, featuring a nine-speaker array with upward-firing drivers, creates an immersive, "virtual surround sound" environment, with the AI Dialogue Mode enhancing vocal clarity during action scenes. Setup is tailored via the ADAPTiQ calibration system, which uses a specialized headset to optimize audio for specific room acoustics. Performance is characterized...Read more

E
expertreviews.co.uk
20/10/2023
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar review: Big sound whether you like it or not

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a premium, compact all-in-one system featuring a sleek design with a polished tempered glass top and impressive, wide soundstage performance driven by nine drivers. Key strengths include the AI Dialogue Mode for enhanced vocal clarity and the ADAPTiQ room calibration system that optimizes audio for specific room acoustics. The unit supports various...Read more

P
pocket-lint.com
20/10/2023
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar review: Smart by name, smart by nature

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar offers an elegant, single-unit design with a tempered glass top, premium build, and an AI-enhanced Dialogue Mode for improved voice clarity. It excels in performance through upward-firing drivers, ADAPTiQ room calibration, and Dolby Atmos support to create an immersive, wide soundstage, bolstered by extensive wireless connectivity options. However,...Read more

T
trustedreviews.com
03/04/2024
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar - Trusted Reviews

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a premium, all-in-one 5.1.2-channel system that produces a spacious, punchy soundstage using AI Dialogue Mode for enhanced vocal clarity. Key strengths include superior build quality with a glass top, extensive wireless connectivity, and effective ADAPTiQ room calibration. However, the review notes potential drawbacks such as occasional audio...Read more

H
homeandsmart.de
11/11/2024
Bose Smart Ultra Review – Can AI Take This Soundbar to the Top?

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a high-end, 5.1.2-channel system that delivers an immersive soundscape with a sleek design featuring a premium tempered glass top, though this surface is prone to fingerprints and reflections. Its ADAPTiQ calibration uses a specialized headset to fine-tune audio specifically to the room's layout, ensuring balanced performance. Performance highlights...Read more

(Translated)Show original
A
audiovision.de
29/06/2026
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar (Review)

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a premium 5.1.2 all-in-one system emphasizing spatial audio via Dolby Atmos and AI-driven dialogue enhancement for improved vocal clarity. It features a sleek design with a glass top and utilizes ADAPTiQ calibration for tailored room sound, alongside TrueSpace technology to upmix non-Atmos content. While offering a wide soundstage, the unit lacks...Read more

(Translated)Show original
F
faz.net
07. Januar 2026
The Best Dolby Atmos Soundbars | March 2026 Test (Winner: Bose Smart Soundbar Ultra)

The FAZ Kaufkompass review names the Bose Smart Soundbar Ultra the top recommendation, citing its balanced performance, ADAPTiQ room calibration, and strong integrated bass for a superior Dolby Atmos experience. While praised for clear dialogue and high-quality build, the premium price is a con, and achieving maximum cinematic immersion requires purchasing separate, costly rear...Read more

(Translated)Show original
S
stereo.de
24. Januar 2025
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar Review: Small and Mighty?

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a compact, premium-designed, and powerful flagship featuring a polished tempered glass top, a wrap-around metal grille, and nine drivers, including two upward-firing dipole speakers for Dolby Atmos audio. Its key strengths include excellent dialogue clarity, supported by AI Dialogue Mode and ADAPTiQ room calibration, along with comprehensive...Read more

(Translated)Show original
G
galaxus.fr
12/03/2025
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar: Premium look, but how does it actually sound?

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar features a premium, low-profile design with a glass top and nine drivers, including upward-firing units for Dolby Atmos. It boasts strong AI Dialogue Mode for voice clarity and effective Adaptiq room calibration, though the 3D spatial effect is subtle without optional rear speakers. Key pros include high-end build quality, excellent dialogue, and...Read more

(Translated)Show original
M
maisonadam.ca
01/11/2023
Review - Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar

The Maison Adam review of the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar characterizes it as a premium, all-in-one, AI-powered successor to the Soundbar 900, featuring a sleek design with a polished glass top and low profile. Key pros include the AI Dialogue Mode, which enhances voice clarity, and the ADAPTiQ calibration system that optimizes sound based on room acoustics. However, the unit faces...Read more

(Translated)Show original
L
lesnumeriques.com
06/12/2023
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar Review: A Very Subtle Update

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a premium, all-in-one audio system featuring a sleek design with a tempered glass top, highlighting an AI Dialogue Mode that effectively improves vocal clarity. Key advantages include an exceptionally wide soundstage for a single bar, robust streaming capabilities, and efficient ADAPTiQ room calibration, according to reviews. However, the unit lacks...Read more

(Translated)Show original
F
frandroid.com
19 Octobre 2023
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar Review: Our Full Verdict

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar offers an immersive, wide soundstage with exceptional vocal clarity driven by AI Dialogue Mode and effective room calibration, according to Frandroid. While praised for its premium design and balanced sound, the unit lacks deep, chest-thumping bass and offers moderate vertical Atmos effects compared to dedicated setups. Key technical limitations include...Read more

(Translated)Show original
D
digitec.ch
13/03/2025
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar: Premium looks, but how does it actually sound?

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar features a premium, low-profile design (5.8 cm) with a glass top that acts as a fingerprint magnet. Pros include powerful, standalone bass and an effective "AI Dialogue Mode" that clarifies speech during movies. However, the unit faces stiff competition from brands like Sonos and offers limited, less-immersive surround sound. For more details, visit...Read more

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R
rtings.com
15/11/2023
Bose Smart Soundbar 900 vs. Smart Ultra (RTINGS.com Spanish Version)

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a premium 5.1.2 standalone unit recognized for its wide soundstage, exceptional vocal clarity via AI Dialogue Mode, and effective ADAPTiQ room correction. While offering extensive wireless connectivity, the soundbar’s treble-heavy profile can lead to harsh, bright audio in high frequencies and lacks deep, impactful low-bass. Despite its premium,...Read more

(Translated)Show original
Q
qualescegliere.it
05/02/2026
Best Bose Soundbars 2026 - WhichToChoose.com

Bose soundbars, including the Smart Ultra and Smart Soundbar 900, are lauded for premium build quality, robust Dolby Atmos support, and advanced spatial audio technologies like PhaseGuide, which deliver an expansive soundstage. Key advantages include the AI-driven Dialogue Mode for voice clarity, effective ADAPTiQ automatic room calibration, and extensive connectivity via Wi-Fi,...Read more

(Translated)Show original
G
galaxus.it
12/03/2025
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar: Premium looks, but how does it sound?

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar features an elegant, low-profile design (5.8 cm height) with a polished glass top, housing nine drivers, including upward-firing units for 3D Dolby Atmos sound. It offers excellent, powerful sound with a spacious front soundstage, featuring effective AI Dialogue Mode for voice clarity and ADAPTiQ room calibration to tune acoustics. However, the unit...Read more

(Translated)Show original
D
digitec.ch
13 marzo 2025
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar: Premium look, but how does it sound?

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar features a premium, low-profile glass-topped design (5.8 cm high) and offers an effective Adaptiq room calibration system to balance frequencies. It serves as a powerful standalone unit with an AI Dialogue Mode that enhances vocal clarity, although the 3D audio experience is limited, providing weak surround effects. While supporting broad streaming...Read more

(Translated)Show original
C
consumentenbond.nl
16/03/2026
Bose Smart Ultra - Test, Reviews & Prices

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a premium, compact single-box solution offering exceptional vocal clarity via its A.I. Dialogue Mode and a wide soundstage enhanced by precise ADAPTiQ room calibration. While featuring a refined design with a glass top, the soundbar lacks deep bass and provides limited Dolby Atmos height effects, often requiring an external subwoofer for a complete...Read more

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