Since we have an explicit interest in all things related to sound, we had to do some digging to find the best compact subwoofers. Multiple different brands and subwoofers are available, often making it hard for beginners to find the one they need. This article can learn more about the subwoofers and their outstanding features.
If you’re interested in learning about the difference between a subwoofer and a speaker, you can learn here.
What is the best compact subwoofer?
My absolute favorite subwoofer for small spaces has to be the Polk Audio PS11. It features a slick all-black design, can go up to 300w at its peak, and is the bass sounds super clean.
Top Pick: Polk Audio PSW111
The Polk Audio PSW111 Compact Powered 8″ Subwoofer is an 8-inch subwoofer that does not take up too much space in your home. It is driven by a 150-watt amplifier that has a maximum power output of 300-watts at its peak. The subwoofer will easily integrate with all your existing systems and speakers with universal settings.
What We Like:
Sleek Design: The first thing that will probably catch your eye is the elegant design. It is modern and matches most home décor.
High Efficiency: It has a high power output of 150-watts for an 8-inch sub. However, it can peak at 300-watts if needed.
Sound Quality: Compared to many subwoofers in the same price range, it has some of the best sound quality.
What We Didn’t Like:
Durability: If the system is not installed correctly, you might find that the capacitors tend to burn out. Be sure to read the instructions when setting it up.
After something bigger? Check out my Klipsch R100SW vs. R10SW comparison.
Yamaha 8″ 100W
When it comes to brands, Yamaha is one of the leading brands for great sound. However, they are often overpriced. The Yamaha 8″ 100W Powered Subwoofer is one of the affordable subwoofers from the Yamaha brand. A new twisted flare port is responsible for reducing the distortion while handling all the different sounds.
What We Like:
Clear Bass: One of the reasons you buy a subwoofer is for the additional bass. The technology in this unit will give you beautiful deep bass.
Compatibility: One of the reasons that this unit is popular is due to the easy integration with almost any current sound system you have.
Affordable: It might only have a power output of 100-watts, but it is also not as expensive as many others.
What We Didn’t Like:
Placement: To get the best sound quality, you need to have it placed at an angle toward you.
Polk Audio PSW10
If the 8-inch Polk does not give you enough sound for your home theater system, the Polk Audio PSW10 10″ Powered Subwoofer will rock your home. It is one of the most precise units that you can integrate with your existing system, and it does not cost a fortune like the 8-inch version. However, it is a little bit.
What We Like:
Integration: The best feature is the ability to integrate the system with almost any of your current speakers.
Power: Not only does it produce 100-watts of power, but the RMS can add 50-watt as well.
Price: While we do not like to be repetitive with features, the price stands out a lot with this unit.
What We Didn’t Like:
Size: It might not be the smallest in this list, so please ensure you measure it before you buy.
Kanto SUB6
Most of the subwoofers on this list are for your home theatre system. However, many people use a subwoofer for more than this. If you need something smaller to move around your home or even put in your car, the Kanto SUB6 6-inch Powered Subwoofer might be one of the best investments that you could make.
What We Like:
- Peak Power: For a compact subwoofer, the peak power is generally 100-watts. However, this unit ramps it up to 200-watts.
- Size: The size of the unit sticks true to the word compact. It is a versatile and lightweight subwoofer to be used anywhere.
- No Vibrations: It has a protective grill and some advanced technology that reduces the vibrations from loud sounds.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Price: Unfortunately, you need to be willing to dole out a couple of bucks for this unit. However, it is worth every penny.
PSB SubSeries 100
PSB is one of those brands that you never hear about. However, many people choose the brand for replacement speakers. Many of you might not be aware of the PSB SubSeries 100 GLSB Compact Powered Subwoofer. It is compatible with most of the common brands you choose to buy new speakers.
What We Like:
- Design: The 5.3-inch size of the unit makes it ideal for smaller apartments and allows you to hide the unit if needed.
- Compatible with top brands: No matter which brand you choose for your speakers, you can easily integrate this subwoofer.
- Power: Since it has a power peak of 100-watts, you might not rate it highly. However, the sound speaks for itself.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Bass: For beginners, it will offer you all the sound that you need. However, experts believe that it does not offer enough bass.
Here are the best budget subwoofers you can buy.
What is the best subwoofer on the market?
After much research, the results show that the best compact subwoofer is the Polk Audio PSW 111. The sound produced is just superior to the others, and we found it to be a perfect size, so there should be no issues finding placement for it.
How To Buy A New Compact Subwoofer
It is not easy for everyone to stroll into a store or go online and buy the best compact subwoofer. Fortunately, we have isolated a few of the essential features. These features are made so that beginners can also understand them. Here is what you will need to look for in the best compact subwoofers:
Design
The first one might seem obvious, but you will need to pay some attention to the design. Yes, we all like something modern and sleek, but frequently you need something that fits. The size of the subwoofer is a crucial thing to look for. A smaller unit might not allow you to integrate as many speakers, but it can replace some speakers and give you better sound.
Where You Will Use It
Before buying a new subwoofer, you need to determine where you are using it. Not all subwoofers are the same. Aside from the size, they have a few features that can make them compatible with specific home theatre systems. Keep in mind that these subwoofers are not the ideal options for your car. You might need to make a few modifications to have them fit in your vehicle.
Power Output
Most of them have a typical power output while giving you an additional number for the peak power output or RMS. It is essential to consider both of these, as it could help you from burning out the capacitors with your volume or your speakers. You don’t need to consider the standard power output only when it comes to subwoofers.
Bass Quality
One of the main reasons for buying a new subwoofer is the bass quality, which will naturally enhance your current sound. The bass quality is probably the hardest to determine if you are not physically present and testing the subwoofer. However, it would be best to consider doing some of your research to find out more about the bass quality.
Compatibility
You probably knew this feature was coming. However, it is of no use if you buy a sound system and it does not integrate with the current hardware you are using. You can look at the description to see if it might be compatible with your current system. However, most modern brands try to make their units universally compatible.
Brand
Not to scare you, but you might come across fantastic deals that seem too good to be true. You need to trust your gut in such cases, as there are many knock-offs on the market today. We recommend sticking to the brands you know or have done your research on.
Wrap-Up
A compact subwoofer is an excellent addition to your home. If you are serious about something small that packs a lot of punch, the options mentioned above will allow you to hear a sound improvement.
