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Bose Soundbar 500 Review | 109 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£300
  • N. of audio channels: 3.0
  • Audio output power: ?
  • HDMI ARC type: arc

Bose Soundbar 500 review. Compare 109 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among soundbars and if it is worth buying.

7.0

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%

6.6

Technical Score

20.0%

8.9

User score

Very good
6.6

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%

6.2

Audio

18.0%

4.6

Formats

16.0%

6.6

Connectivity

14.0%

9.0

Controls

12.0%

6.0

HDMI & Gaming

10.0%

8.3

Smart features

5.0%

6.8

Design

Good
8.9

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%

8.6

User reviews

30.0%

9.5

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.3
(545)
amazon
4.4
(9)
amazon
5.0
(3)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Excellent
  • 5.4
    Movies

    Score components:

    25.0%

    4.0

    Dolby Atmos

    25.0%

    4.6

    N. of audio channels

    20.0%

    4.0

    Subwoofer included

    15.0%

    9.0

    Audio output power

    15.0%

    7.0

    HDMI ARC type

  • 5.8
    Gaming

    Score components:

    35.0%

    4.0

    HDMI pass-through frame rate

    30.0%

    7.0

    HDMI ARC type

    20.0%

    4.6

    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

  • bose-soundbar-500
  • bose-soundbar-500
  • bose-soundbar-500
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bose-soundbar-500

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 Soundbar 500 is an ultra-slim 3.0-channel speaker system measuring just 80 cm wide and 4.4 cm high, featuring a premium matte-finish top and a wraparound metal grille. It is equipped with custom drivers and QuietPort technology for clarity and reduced distortion, and includes an eight-microphone array for built-in Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice control. Its main strengths are a well-balanced sound profile ideal for dialogue, ADAPTiQ room calibration for optimized acoustics, and versatile connectivity via HDMI ARC/eARC, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Apple AirPlay 2. However, notable drawbacks include a significant lack of sub-bass for action movies without the optional Bass Module 500, a lack of support for Dolby Atmos, and a tendency for audio compression at maximum volume levels.

Technical Specifications of soundbar Bose Soundbar 500

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%

6.2

Audio

18.0%

4.6

Formats

16.0%

6.6

Connectivity

14.0%

9.0

Controls

12.0%

6.0

HDMI & Gaming

10.0%

8.3

Smart features

5.0%

6.8

Design

6.6
Bose Soundbar 500 has a technical score of 6.58 points, which is higher than that of 78.7% 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%

8.6

User reviews

30.0%

9.5

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.3
(545)
amazon
4.4
(9)
amazon
5.0
(3)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

8.9
Bose Soundbar 500 has a user score of 8.87 points, which is higher than that of 86.2% 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.
9.5
Bose Soundbar 500 has a popularity of 9.5 points, which is higher than 76.1% 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%

7.0

Overall score

40.0%

8.9

Price

7.6
Bose Soundbar 500 has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.6 points, which is higher than 84.6% 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

3.0
Bose Soundbar 500 has a number of audio channels of 3.0, higher than 76.6% of soundbars and equal to 3.2% of soundbars.
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

55.8 Hz
Bose Soundbar 500 has a min frequency of 55.8 Hz, higher than 62.8% of soundbars and equal to 0.7% of soundbars.
Third-party low-frequency extension used; implausible higher value 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

no
Bose Soundbar 500 does not support 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 Soundbar 500 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

no
Bose Soundbar 500 does not support Dolby TrueHD. 17.6% of soundbars include this feature.
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 Soundbar 500 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

no
Bose Soundbar 500 does not support 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

0
Bose Soundbar 500 has a number of HDMI inputs of 0, equal to 67.6% 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 Soundbar 500 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 Soundbar 500 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 Soundbar 500 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

4.2
Bose Soundbar 500 uses Bluetooth 4.2, which is older than that of 62.1% of soundbars and the same as that of 25.3% 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 Soundbar 500 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 Soundbar 500 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

yes
Bose Soundbar 500 has 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 Soundbar 500 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 Soundbar 500 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

?
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

arc
Bose Soundbar 500 has arc as its HDMI TV-audio return type, which is more advanced than what 29.6% of soundbars offer and the same as what 49.4% 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 Soundbar 500 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 Soundbar 500 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 Soundbar 500 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 Soundbar 500 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 Soundbar 500 supports Chromecast built-in. 11.7% of soundbars include this feature.
Chromecast built-in added via firmware update.
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 Soundbar 500 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 Soundbar 500 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 Soundbar 500 has Amazon Music native support. 20.9% of soundbars offer this feature.
Available via built-in Alexa.
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

800 mm
Bose Soundbar 500 has a width of 800 mm, higher than 54.6% of soundbars and equal to 4.4% 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

44 mm
Bose Soundbar 500 has a height of 44 mm, lower than 99.5% of soundbars 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

44 mm
Bose Soundbar 500 is 44 mm thick, thinner than 98.9% of soundbars 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

3,180 g
Bose Soundbar 500 weighs 3,180 g, more than 75.5% 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 Soundbar 500 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.
Metal grille.
Show more

Bose Soundbar 500 vs the average soundbar

  • Supports center channel driver
    Bose Soundbar 500 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 Soundbar 500 has center channel driver, the average soundbar does not.
  • Has Wi-Fi connectivity
    Bose Soundbar 500 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 Soundbar 500 supports Wi-Fi connectivity, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports Chromecast built-in
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports Chromecast built-in, the average soundbar does not.
    Chromecast built-in added via firmware update.
    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 Soundbar 500 supports Chromecast built-in, the average soundbar does not.
  • More audio channels
    Bose Soundbar 500 has more audio channels than the average soundbar (3 vs 2.0). The average soundbar has 2.0 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

    Bose Soundbar 500 has more audio channels than the average soundbar (3 vs 2.0). The average soundbar has 2.0 audio channels.3.0 vs 2.0
  • Supports automatic room calibration
    Bose Soundbar 500 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 Soundbar 500 supports automatic room calibration, the average soundbar does not.
  • Has smartphone app
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports smartphone app, the average soundbar does not.
    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

    Bose Soundbar 500 supports smartphone app, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports AirPlay
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports AirPlay, the average soundbar does not.
    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

    Bose Soundbar 500 supports AirPlay, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports Spotify Connect
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports Spotify Connect, the average soundbar does not.
    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

    Bose Soundbar 500 supports Spotify Connect, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports center channel driver
    Bose Soundbar 500 has center channel driver, the average soundbar does not.
  • More audio channels
    Bose Soundbar 500 has more audio channels than the average soundbar (3 vs 2.0). The average soundbar has 2.0 audio channels.
  • Compatible with Wireless rear speaker
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports wireless rear speaker compatibility, the average soundbar does not.
  • 1 more drivers
    Bose Soundbar 500 has more drivers than the average soundbar (5 vs 4). The average soundbar has 4 drivers.
  • 20% lower standby power consumption
    Bose Soundbar 500 has a lower standby power consumption than the average soundbar (0.4 W vs 0.5 W). The average soundbar uses 0.5 W in standby.
  • Broader format support
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports more music formats than the average soundbar (AAC, ALAC, FLAC, MP3, WMA vs MP3).
  • 1 more supported Bluetooth codecs
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports more Bluetooth codecs than the average soundbar (2 vs 1). The average soundbar supports 1 Bluetooth codecs.
  • Supports AAC
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports AAC, the average soundbar does not.
  • 3 more supported audio formats
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports more audio formats than the average soundbar (5 vs 2). The average soundbar supports 2 audio formats.
  • Has Wi-Fi connectivity
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports Wi-Fi connectivity, the average soundbar does not.
  • 1 more RJ45 ports
    Bose Soundbar 500 has more RJ45 ports than the average soundbar (1 vs 0). The average soundbar has 0 RJ45 ports.
  • Supports Chromecast built-in
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports Chromecast built-in, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports AirPlay
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports AirPlay, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports Spotify Connect
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports Spotify Connect, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports multiroom ecosystem
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports multiroom ecosystem support, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports amazon Music native
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports Amazon Music native support, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports deezer
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports Deezer support, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports automatic room calibration
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports automatic room calibration, the average soundbar does not.
  • Has smartphone app
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports smartphone app, the average soundbar does not.
  • Has EQ customization (app)
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports eQ customization (app), the average soundbar does not.
  • Compatible with Voice assistant
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports voice assistant compatibility, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports manual audio delay adjustment
    Bose Soundbar 500 supports manual audio delay adjustment, the average soundbar does not.
  • 8 more microphones
    Bose Soundbar 500 has more microphones than the average soundbar (8 vs 0). The average soundbar has 0 microphones.
  • Supports far-field microphones
    Bose Soundbar 500 has far-field microphones, the average soundbar does not.
  • 23 mm lower height
    Bose Soundbar 500 is shorter than the average soundbar (44 mm vs 67 mm). The average soundbar is 67 mm tall.
  • 41 mm thinner design
    Bose Soundbar 500 is thinner than the average soundbar (44 mm vs 85 mm). The average soundbar is 85 mm thick.

Total
Overall
Audio
Formats
Connectivity
Smart features
Controls
Design
  • 3 fewer sound modes
    Bose Soundbar 500 offers fewer sound modes than the average soundbar (1 vs 4). The average soundbar offers 4 sound modes.
  • 4.7 Hz higher min frequency
    Bose Soundbar 500 has a higher minimum frequency than the average soundbar (55.8 Hz vs 51.1 Hz). The average soundbar has a minimum frequency of 51.1 Hz.
    Third-party low-frequency extension used; implausible higher value ignored.
  • No PCM / LPCM
    Bose Soundbar 500 does not support PCM / LPCM support, the average soundbar does.
  • No USB audio input
    Bose Soundbar 500 does not have USB audio input, the average soundbar does.
    no (for service only)
  • No AUX input
    Bose Soundbar 500 does not have AUX input, the average soundbar does.
    no
  • No USB playback
    Bose Soundbar 500 does not support USB playback support, the average soundbar does.
    no (USB port is for service only, not playback)
  • Older Bluetooth version
    Bose Soundbar 500 uses 4.2 for Bluetooth version, while the average soundbar uses 5.0.
  • Less advanced HDMI ARC type
    Bose Soundbar 500 has arc as its HDMI TV-audio return type, while the average soundbar has eARC.
  • 1,180 g heavier weight
    Bose Soundbar 500 is heavier than the average soundbar (3,180 g vs 2,000 g). The average soundbar weighs 2,000 g.
  • 3 year/s older release date
    Bose Soundbar 500 is older than the average soundbar (2018 vs 2021). The average soundbar was released in 2021.
    October 2,018
  • Less trusted origin
    Bose Soundbar 500 is from United States, while the average soundbar is from Japan.
  • 39 mm wider width
    Bose Soundbar 500 is wider than the average soundbar (800 mm vs 761 mm). The average soundbar is 761 mm wide.
  • Less advanced HDMI ARC type
    Bose Soundbar 500 has arc as its HDMI TV-audio return type, while the average soundbar has eARC.
    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

    Bose Soundbar 500 has arc as its HDMI TV-audio return type, while the average soundbar has eARC.arc vs eARC
  • No USB audio input
    Bose Soundbar 500 does not have USB audio input, the average soundbar does.
    no (for service only)
    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 Soundbar 500 does not have USB audio input, the average soundbar does.
  • No PCM / LPCM
    Bose Soundbar 500 does not support PCM / LPCM support, the average soundbar does.
    What it is: Supports multichannel or stereo PCM/LPCM audio sent uncompressed from compatible devices.
    When it matters: When consoles, TVs, or players are configured to output uncompressed PCM audio rather than bitstream formats.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Bose Soundbar 500 does not support PCM / LPCM support, the average soundbar does.
  • No AUX input
    Bose Soundbar 500 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 Soundbar 500 does not have AUX input, the average soundbar does.
  • 3 fewer sound modes
    Bose Soundbar 500 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 Soundbar 500 offers fewer sound modes than the average soundbar (1 vs 4). The average soundbar offers 4 sound modes.1 vs 4
  • No USB playback
    Bose Soundbar 500 does not support USB playback support, the average soundbar does.
    no (USB port is for service only, not playback)
    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 Soundbar 500 does not support USB playback support, the average soundbar does.
  • Older Bluetooth version
    Bose Soundbar 500 uses 4.2 for Bluetooth version, while the average soundbar uses 5.0.
    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

    Bose Soundbar 500 uses 4.2 for Bluetooth version, while the average soundbar uses 5.0.4.2 vs 5.0
  • 1,180 g heavier weight
    Bose Soundbar 500 is heavier than the average soundbar (3,180 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 Soundbar 500 is heavier than the average soundbar (3,180 g vs 2,000 g). The average soundbar weighs 2,000 g.3,180 g vs 2,000 g
Total
Overall
Audio
Formats
Connectivity
HDMI & Gaming
Design

Graphic comparison of Bose Soundbar 500 and other soundbars

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.3
545 Reviews
amazon
4.4
9 Reviews
amazon
5.0
3 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Bose Soundbar 500?

  • Sleek and compact design: Its low profile (less than 2 inches tall) allows it to fit easily under most TVs without blocking the screen.
  • Exceptional dialogue clarity: Features dedicated center channel performance and dialogue enhancement modes that make speech very easy to understand.
  • Extensive wireless connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect for versatile streaming.
  • Built-in voice assistants: Includes Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant with a superior microphone array for reliable voice pickup even in noisy rooms.
  • ADAPTiQ room calibration: Automatically optimises the audio performance based on the specific acoustics of your room.
  • Easy setup: Users frequently report a quick and straightforward installation process via the Bose Music app.

What customers dislike about Bose Soundbar 500?

  • Lack of sub-bass: On its own, the soundbar lacks deep, thumpy bass for action movies, often making a separate subwoofer purchase necessary for full immersion.
  • No Dolby Atmos or DTS support: It does not support these advanced surround sound formats, limiting its performance compared to newer rivals.
  • Compression at high volumes: The sound can become compressed or distorted when pushed to its maximum volume, especially in the bass range.
  • Limited physical ports: Lacks additional HDMI inputs, meaning it cannot serve as a hub for multiple devices.
  • App and firmware issues: Some users and reviewers have reported frustrating software bugs, including firmware update loops that can affect usability.
  • Premium price point: Often considered expensive for the performance offered when compared to competitors that include a subwoofer in the box.

Expert reviews

C
consumerreports.org
Not Specified
Bose Soundbar 500 - Consumer Reports

The Bose Soundbar 500 receives a "Good" rating from Consumer Reports for sound quality, noted for its slim, low-profile design and integrated voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. While boasting impressive ADAPTiQ room calibration, the unit's audio performance is mixed, with a "boomy" yet shallow bass and a "sizzly" treble that can feel compressed at high volumes....Read more

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gadgetreview.com
11/09/2023
Bose Soundbar 500 Review - Gadget Review

The Bose Soundbar 500 is an ultra-slim 3.0-channel system designed for minimalist aesthetics, offering robust smart features including built-in Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant with reliable voice pickup. It supports extensive connectivity options such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect for versatile music streaming. Performance-wise, the unit delivers...Read more

T
trustedreviews.com
08/09/2021
Bose Soundbar 500 Review - Trusted Reviews

The Bose Soundbar 500 is recognized for its exceptionally sleek, 44mm tall design and premium matte black finish, designed to fit unobtrusively under most televisions. It features robust smart capabilities, including Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, supported by an eight-microphone array for effective voice control. While offering clear mid-range performance suitable for...Read more

P
pcmag.com
08/02/2019
Bose Soundbar 500 Review - PCMag

The Bose Soundbar 500 is a compact, sleek 3.0-channel system that delivers rich, detailed audio with excellent dialogue clarity for its size, featuring integrated Alexa voice control and effective ADAPTiQ room calibration. However, the soundbar struggles with deep sub-bass in action scenes and thins out at maximum volumes to prevent distortion, while also lacking support for...Read more

R
rtings.com
30/09/2019
Bose Soundbar 500 Review - RTINGS.com

According to the RTINGS review, the Bose Soundbar 500 is a compact 3.0 standalone system boasting premium build quality, a neutral sound profile, and excellent dialogue clarity for vocal-heavy content. It features ADAPTiQ room correction and versatile connectivity, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Apple AirPlay 2. However, the unit lacks deep bass, does not support Dolby Atmos, and...Read more

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techhive.com
01/01/2019
Bose Soundbar 500 review: Alexa, make me a sleek, smart sound bar - TechHive

The Bose Soundbar 500 is a compact, 1.75-inch high audio system lauded for its sleek design, exceptional vocal clarity, and robust smart features, including built-in Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. While offering impressive sound for its size, the unit suffers from harsh, overly bright factory EQ settings, requiring manual adjustment via the Bose Music app to achieve balanced...Read more

D
digitaltrends.com
24/08/2020
Bose Soundbar 500 review: Clean sound - Digital Trends

The Digital Trends review describes the Bose Soundbar 500 as a minimalist, ultra-thin unit prioritizing aesthetic appeal and vocal clarity over raw cinematic power. Key pros include high-end build quality, excellent dialogue reproduction for clearer voice audio, and strong smart features, such as built-in Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant with superior microphone pickup. Conversely,...Read more

H
hifi.de
15/10/2021
Bose Soundbar 500 Review: Affordable Bose Sound for Movie Fans

The Bose Soundbar 500 is an ultra-slim (4.4 cm high) audio device designed for a minimal footprint with a premium aesthetic. It features excellent voice clarity and a wide soundstage suitable for TV and dialogue-driven content, supported by ADAPTiQ calibration and robust smart assistant integration. While it is a strong voice-focused option, limitations include a lack of deep,...Read more

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n-tv.de
21/12/2022
Bose Soundbar 500: How good is the current price?

The n-tv.de review characterizes the Bose Soundbar 500 as a compact, aesthetically pleasing audio solution (5cm tall) featuring excellent build quality and a matte finish. Pros highlighted include clear dialogue reproduction, a well-balanced sound profile for general usage, and the effective ADAPTiQ room calibration system. Additionally, the unit boasts robust smart features,...Read more

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heise.de
01/02/2021
Bose Soundbar 500 Review: Smart Controls, Great Sound

The Heise.de review describes the compact, 4.4 cm high Bose Soundbar 500 as a stylish, matte black audio solution that excels with smart features like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple AirPlay 2. While praised for its balanced sound and the ADAPTiQ room calibration system, the unit's high price and the need for expensive add-ons for true home cinema performance are noted as...Read more

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M
maisonadam.ca
08/11/2018
Bose Soundbar 500 Review: A slim format packed with connected features

The Maison Adam review highlights the Bose Soundbar 500 for its exceptionally compact, 1.75-inch tall design and the ADAPTiQ calibration system that produces a wide soundstage with clear dialogue. Key pros include its aesthetic, unobtrusive look, built-in Amazon Alexa with a responsive microphone array, and comprehensive smart features through the Bose Music app. Maison AdamHowever,...Read more

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C
clubic.com
24/12/2020
Bose Soundbar 500 Review: A Versatile and User-Friendly Soundbar

The Bose Soundbar 500 is a compact, 3.0-channel system designed for unobtrusive placement with an ultra-slim 4.4 cm height, featuring extensive connectivity through Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, and integrated voice assistants (Alexa/Google Assistant). It delivers clear, warm audio with a wide soundstage, bolstered by the effective ADAPTiQ room calibration system for optimized...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
12/02/2019
Bose Soundbar 500 Review: An incomplete soundbar

Les Numériques describes the Bose Soundbar 500 as a compact, aesthetically pleasing device with excellent build quality, matte finish, and an intuitive, highly sensitive 8-microphone voice assistant integration. However, the review highlights significant cons regarding its audio performance, characterizing the sound as artificial, lacking precision in lower frequencies, and...Read more

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leclaireur.fnac.com
08/08/2023
BOSE Soundbar 500 + Bass Module Lab Test: A High-Quality Combo

The Fnac Lab review describes the Bose Soundbar 500 and Bass Module 500 as a compact, elegant system delivering balanced, homogeneous audio with excellent vocal clarity. Key strengths include the 5 cm height for easy placement and the ADAPTiQ calibration for tailored room acoustics. However, the lab found limitations in raw power, with a maximum volume of 92 dB, and a lack of deep...Read more

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leclaireur.fnac.com
21/02/2020
Bose Soundbar 500 Lab Test: a compact design for average performance

The Bose Soundbar 500 features an ultra-compact, elegant design ideal for unobtrusive setups, delivering balanced mid and high frequencies that excel at dialogue clarity. However, the lab test highlights a significant lack of deep sub-bass, with frequency response only beginning at 100 Hz, resulting in a thin sound for action content. Furthermore, the lack of native Dolby Atmos or...Read more

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R
revistaonoff.es
02/12/2020
Review: Bose SoundBar 500 + Bass Module 500

The Bose Soundbar 500 and Bass Module 500 feature a slim, minimalist design, with the 2-inch tall bar and compact subwoofer providing a high-end look suitable for modern spaces. Pros include impressive, clear audio for its size, enhanced by ADAPTiQ room calibration and built-in Alexa/Google Assistant capabilities. While the soundbar offers great dialogue clarity, the optional Bass...Read more

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R
rtings.com
30/09/2019
Bose Soundbar 500 Review - RTINGS.com YouTube

The Bose Soundbar 500 is a compact, well-built 3.0-channel soundbar featuring a sleek 1.7-inch tall design that easily fits under most TVs, offering neutral sound ideal for dialogue-focused content. Key strengths include the ADAPTiQ room calibration system, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity, and a dedicated center channel that enhances speech clarity. However, significant drawbacks...Read more

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pixeltv.it
23 Luglio 2024
Bose Soundbar 500 Review: An Expandable Home Cinema System

The PixelTV.it review highlights the Bose Soundbar 500 as an ultra-slim, well-built 3-channel system offering excellent dialogue clarity and integrated smart features like Alexa and Google Assistant. While it serves as a stylish upgrade to standard TV speakers, a key limitation is the lack of deep sub-bass as a standalone unit, necessitating potential investment in additional Bose...Read more

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C
consumentenbond.nl
Onbekend
Bose Soundbar 500 - Test, Reviews & Prices

The Bose Soundbar 500 is a 3.0-channel system, praised for its sleek, 5 cm high design, excellent dialogue clarity, and robust smart features including built-in Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Pros include the user-friendly Bose Music app, premium build quality, and versatile streaming options such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Apple AirPlay 2. However, the soundbar suffers from...Read more

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liefsmarielle.nl
20/03/2019
Bose Soundbar 500 Review - Liefsmarielle.nl

The LiefsMarielle.nl review highlights the Bose Soundbar 500 as a compact, stylish, and high-performing audio solution designed to enhance TV sound, sitting between the Bose 300 and 700 models in terms of performance and size. It features a modern, unobtrusive design with a matte top and metal grille that fits easily under most TVs. Key pros include exceptional audio clarity,...Read more

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K
kieskeurig.nl
28/11/2020
Bose Soundbar 500 - Black reviews

The Bose Soundbar 500 is praised for its ultra-thin, 2-inch high profile and premium matte finish, making it an ideal, discreet choice for smaller spaces. It offers excellent vocal clarity and includes ADAPTiQ room calibration to optimize sound, alongside built-in voice assistants. However, the unit lacks deep sub-bass for action content and is frequently criticized for its often...Read more

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