12 Best Subwoofers For The Money


Movies, music, video games, or just about any application where sound quality is a factor doesn’t reach their max potential unless the audio quality delivers good bass. That’s where an additional subwoofer plays a significant role. 

For whichever reason you’re searching for a subwoofer, you’ve come to the right place. We formulated a list of the best subwoofers for the money.

Regardless of your budget, size preference Watts you desire, or other technical specs you prefer; at least one of these below will suit your needs! 

In Short, Here Are The 12 Highest-Rated Subwoofers Online

  • Yamaha NS-SW100BL
  • Klipsch R-120SW
  • MTX Audio TNE212DV
  • Rockville Rock Shaker
  • BIC America F12
  • Definitive Technology ProSub 800
  • Kicker 44TCWC104
  • Polk Audio PSW10
  • Sony SACS9
  • Klipsch Synergy
  • Polk Audio HTS 10
  • Elac SUB1010

1. Yamaha NS-SW100BL

Best SubwoofersFirst up, the Yamaha NS-SW100BL is an excellent subwoofer with a large 10-inch speaker. Right off the bat, you’ll love that it’s currently on a  10% reduction in price, has impeccable customer reviews across the board, and generates a bass response. The incorporated twisted flare port enhances the bass tone by optimizing airflow and eliminating unwanted noise. 

Users Say: “Integrated into a 5.1 home theater system, this powered subwoofer produces a bass response that is clear, tight, and smooth. It is not given to exaggerated boom or annoying lingering echo. The sound is particularly pleasant with film music. Attractive appearance as well, inconspicuous black.”

Tech Specs & Details

  • 10-Inch Speaker
  • 100 Watt
  • Size: 16.2 x 13.9 x 13.9 
  • Weight: 26.5 pounds

2. Klipsch R-120SW

Best SubwoofersFor good reasons, the Klipsch R-120SW is the most famous and absolute highest-rated on this list. Put plainly, we believe it provides the best sound quality of any subwoofer under $400. However, there are a plethora of reasons why we adore it.

For one, it has an attractive design that’ll boost the aesthetic value of your home. The appearance is modern, rich, and matches just about any room. 

In terms of how it gets the superb audio fidelity and stunning bass, there are a few technical aspects worth mentioning. It produces the highest wattage power of any subwoofer on this list 400 Watts. Moreover, the acoustic output is 116dB, it’s constructed of 12-inch high-excursion spun copper, and has an integrated digital amplifier. 

Recently, this subwoofer had a hefty price cut of 24% off the original amount. Although we’re unsure if this discount is permanent or temporary, we believe it’s, either way, an incredible bang for the buck. It’s our most recommended on this list!

Users Say:I wanted to upgrade my subwoofer, so like everyone else you head out onto the world wide web and do some research. I read many reviews on at least 10+ subs in my price range. After much thought and research, I decided on the Klipsch and I’m so glad I did. It sounds amazing. Unfortunately where I live it’s difficult to go to a store and listen and weigh options. The Klipsch is definitely the right choice for me. Give it a try and I think you will love it too.

Tech Specs & Details

  • Sizes: 19.2 x 14 x 16.5 
  • Weight: 31 pounds
  • 400 Watts
  • Acoustic Output: 116dB
  • 29 hertz – 120 hertz

3. MTX Audio TNE212DV

With a vented enclosure, the MTX Audio TNE212DV has dual 12-inch speakers that produce higher wattage than every subwoofer on this list of 2000Peak Watts. The picture can be a bit misleading as in person, this unit is quite large. It’s 29.5 x 13.5 x 14 and possesses adequate weight at 53 pounds. 

Another beneficial attribute is its robust quality of construction made with aviation carpet and MDF. Compared to the reasonable price, we believe the bass performance outperforms cost!  

Users Say: “Installed behind my backseat in the Jeep and when tuned properly you can feel the air move in the front seats. Good bump on my back when playing metal or country, not an issue at all. Doesn’t rattle the car next to you, but it’s perfect when you want to keep a low profile…..especially with no top on! Recommend for Jeep owners!”

Tech Specs & Details

  • Weight: 52.9 Pounds
  • Size: 29.5 x 13.5 x 14
  • 12-Inch Speakers
  • 2000 Watts

4. Rockville Rock Shaker

If you’re looking for the most affordable subwoofer that delivers excellent bass and dependable performance, the Rockville Rock Shaker is certainly a top contender. It spawns 400 Watts with its 8-inch speakers. You’ll also be surprised by its heavy-duty construction weighing 18 pounds.

Compared to the other subwoofers on this list, the low-end isn’t as crisp or tight. However, that’s generally what you would expect by a cheaper sub. If you aren’t picky about sound and only need adequate bass at a low price, this is the one for you! 

Users Say: “I purchased this for my home theater and based on the reviews, had high expectations. I have NOT been disappointed! Unbelievable bass sound comes out of this thing. My wife has to tell me constantly to turn down the bass, which gets my highest mark! Great value and great sub.”

Tech Specs & Details

  • Weight: 18 Pounds
  • Size: 11.8” x 15” x 13.8”
  • 400 Watts
  • 8-Inch Speaker
  • Impedance: 4 Ohm

5. BIC America F12

Here is yet another impressive subwoofer that will exceed your expectations. The BIC America F12 provides a thumping bass due to its sizable 12-inch speakers, 8 ohms, 475 Watts, and wide frequency response of 25Hz – 200Hz. Coming with the purchase, you get peace of mind with a 5-year warranty. 

Users Say:This is an amazing home theater subwoofer. It definitely surpasses any others at this price point and most others of this size with higher prices too. Buy with confidence, this sub will not disappoint.

Tech Specs & Details

  • Weight: 42.7
  • Size: 21 x 19 x 22
  • 12-Inch Speaker
  • 475 Watts
  • 5-year warranty
  • Impedance: 8 ohm
  • Frequency Response: 25Hz – 200Hz

6. Definitive Technology ProSub 800

Coming in barely below $400, the Definitive Technology ProSub 800 is an exceptional choice. This subwoofer produces 175 Watts less than the previous choice giving you a 300 Watt total. Furthermore, it also possesses a useful volume knob on the top right side. 

In case you need a subwoofer for a home theater, they recommend you incorporate it with ProMonitor 800 speakers and a ProCenter 100 center channel. 

Something you might find unusual but super beneficial is the compact size of only 15.8 inches tall, 10.4 inches wide, and 13 inches deep. Nonetheless, the beneficial part is how it generates are far greater sound that’s distortion-free for the small size. 

Users Say:Surprising amount of bass. Once I had the crossover properly dialed in with the rest of the system the level of bass is excellent. Plenty of punch when needed and offers the perfect level of bass at various tones. It’s Definitive! Great quality.”

Tech Specs & Details

  • Sizes: 15.8 x 10.4 x 12.9
  • 300 Watts
  • 110 volts
  • 8-Inch
  • Frequency Response: 20Hz – 150Hz

7. Kicker 44TCWC104

Delivering the second highest peak wattage on this list, the Kicker 44TCWC104 is an outstanding option with a powerful sound. The bass is surprisingly deep and it’s very punchy.

We believe this subwoofer deserves to be much more popular than its current state. Not only does it have our seal of approval, but it’s also loved amongst users for just about any application! 

Users Say: “For the price, I’m not sure you can beat this. Sound quality is right where I expected and overall appearances and weight indicate you get a lot for the price. I’m 40 and just wanted to add depth to music and podcasts. Does the job and I’d probably be just as happy when I was 20 and blowing out my eardrums.”

Tech Specs & Details

  • Weight: 30.5 Pounds
  • Size: 21.65 x 7.48 x 14.96
  • 10-Inch Speaker
  • 4 Ohm 
  • 600 Watt

8. Polk Audio PSW10

Next in the lineup, the Polk Audio PSW10 is the most famous subwoofer on this list. Let alone, it’s possibly the most popular on the entire market, as well. 

Like the Rockville Rock Shaker, it too is quite inexpensive and delivers impressive bass for the money. But compared to every subwoofer in the $100 range, this one produces the best bass quality, performance, and reliability. 

Users Say:Bought this for my new basement tv setup and couldn’t be happier with all of my Polk speakers. When this bass is bumping you can see the glass of water vibrating on the coffee table upstairs. Very happy. Sounds great.

Tech Specs & Details

  • Weight: 26 Pounds
  • Size: 16.2 x 14 x 14.4 
  • 100 Watts
  • 10-Inch Speaker

9. Sony SACS9

Also on a friendly 21% price reduction, the Sony SACS9 is a fabulous subwoofer that delivers a tight but thumping bass. The vast frequency response of 28Hz-200Hz enables the vast lower spectrum to shine. You’ll also appreciate that it offers 6 Ohms, 230 Watts, and possesses a 10-inch foamed-mica woofer that’s also cellular reinforced.

Users Say:Sounds great with my movies and 5.1 audio discs. I’m very happy with this subwoofer and would recommend it to anyone who wants to watch movies or listen to music in surround sound.

Tech Specs & Details

  • Weight: 25 Pounds
  • Size: 18.7 x 14.8 x 17.3
  • 230 Watt
  • Frequency Response: 28-200Hz
  • 6 Ohm

10. Klipsch Synergy

Just about any Klipsch subwoofer is a trustworthy option. What makes the Klipsch Synergy than the previous R-120SW version is it’s more affordable by $120. On the contrary, it also delivers less wattage. We explicitly recommend this sub if you were interested in the previous Klipsch but want to save some money and only need 300 Watts rather than 400 Watts.  

Users Say:I wasn’t getting enough bass for my vinyl collection. I bought this to go with my turntable, preamp, receiver, and Klipsch speakers. The improvement is AMAZING!!!! Exactly what I needed!”

Tech Specs & Details

  • Weight: 30.6 Pounds
  • Size: 15.7 x 12.5 x 14
  • 300 Watts
  • 10-Inch Speaker

11. Polk Audio HTS 10

Next up, the Polk Audio HTS 10 is an excellent subwoofer running below $400. In addition to our full endorsement of this subwoofer, you’ll be pleased by its near-flawless reviews amongst customers, as well.

This subwoofer provides a spacious 10-inch woofer. In addition, the integrated 200 Watt amplifier delivers enormous bass that’s crisp and free from distortion. You’ll also love its modern appearance that enhances your room’s visual appeal. 

Users Say:If you like to hear through your sternum, this will do the job. Perhaps the 12″ model will blow your hair back too. You don’t need to spend over $1,000 for a vanity subwoofer. Nobody will care. It would be similar to paying as much for a tweeter that puts out sound waves above the frequency of human sound. One would need the transplant of a dog’s inner ear.

Tech Specs & Details

  • 200 Watts
  • 10-Inch Driver
  • Patented Power Port Technology
  • Sizes: 14 x 13 x 14 inches

12. Elac SUB1010

Last but not least, the Elac SUB1010 is another phenomenal value for the meager price. It has a 10-inch speaker that produces a satisfying bass response. You will also appreciate its spacious bass spectrum with a 38Hz – 200Hz frequency response. 

The only downside we could pinpoint is its lower-than-average Wattage at 120 Watts. Aside from that, we believe it’s a dependable option for the money. 

Users Say:I don’t think you can find a subwoofer that’s a better value than this. I needed a subwoofer for my two-channel set up to fill in the bottom end for some bookshelf speakers and I didn’t think this subwoofer would be too Whoopi cuz it’s small and compact but I tell you what it really does sound great and I am very happy with my purchase.

Tech Specs & Details

  • Weight: 26 Pounds
  • Size: 12.19 x 13.19 x 13.56
  • 120 Watts
  • Frequency Response: 38Hz – 200Hz
  • 10-Inch Speaker

Our Winners

Keep in mind that our opinion is not the end all be all. Like mentioned earlier, everyone has different needs, requirements, and budgets for their subwoofer. However, our winner is the Klipsch R-120SW by a sizable margin. We believe it’s the best bang for the buck due to its phenomenal sound for the price, reliability, build quality, and impressive longevity. Not only does it have our full endorsement, but it’s also remarkably rated with picture-perfect reviews amongst customers! 

What do subwoofers look like?

Most subwoofers are cube-shaped ranging anywhere between 10 to 22 inches per side. However, some subwoofers provide a rectangular shape. 

What do subwoofers do?

Subwoofers deliver a deep bass that ordinary speakers can’t replicate. They’re best used for your car, TV, computer, sound system, etc. 

Which Subwoofer is louder, 2 ohms or 4 ohms? 

Contrary to what you’ll initially think, subwoofers with 2 ohms are louder than subwoofers with 4 ohms. However, louder doesn’t necessarily mean better. 

What’s the preferred amount of wattage for a 10-inch subwoofer? 

150 Watts is the recommended power for a 10-inch subwoofer. 

Quick Recap

Here Are TheBest Subwoofers On Amazon

  • Yamaha NS-SW100BL
  • Klipsch R-120SW
  • MTX Audio TNE212DV
  • Rockville Rock Shaker
  • BIC America F12
  • Definitive Technology ProSub 800
  • Kicker 44TCWC104
  • Polk Audio PSW10
  • Sony SACS9
  • Klipsch Synergy
  • Polk Audio HTS 10
  • Elac SUB1010

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