Looking to amp up your sound system game in your home? Well, then you must be in search of a home theater system. I don’t think you will have that much of a difficult time finding a quality home theater system. But finding the best budget home theater system will indeed require some work.

Usually, the budget systems will sacrifice quality or performance for the price. That’s why I am here to help you out with it. Here, I bring you options that don’t cost you a fortune to provide a quality and satisfying home theater experience.

What makes me the expert? I have been working with audio gears and sound design for a long time. So, you will be getting here some top-notch picks within a budget. Let’s get on with this whole thing.

Top 8 budget home theater system

I went through deep research and found these top 8 choices for you. These come with quality, so you won’t have to worry about that too much either. You can rely on these choices to meet your needs for your home theater system without any hint of doubt.

1. Klipsch Black Reference Theater Pack 5.1 Surround Sound System – Best in performance

What better way to start the list than a sound system from Klipsch? Like any other sound system, this one also comes with amazing performance and quality. It surely provides the best quality you can ask of a budget home theater system.

The speakers on the home theater system are dedicated to providing that top-notch acoustic performance many people want to get from their system. It makes the listening experience even more enjoyable with the least footprint.

Along with that comes the advanced technology of the Tractrix horn that provides the speaker with a natural-sounding tone. And it doesn’t lack on the bass aspect either. Overall, you will have a pretty balanced-sounding home theater system with surround sound.

Specifications

• Speaker system: 5.1 channe
• Peak power: 1000watt
• Frequency response: 38hz to 23000hz
• Connectivity: Wired and wireless
• Dimensions: 11.8 x 11.8 x 13.3 inches
• Weight: 32lbs

Pros

• The speakers come with excellent sound quality
• It has got a down-firing wireless bass
• The build quality is quite impressive on the home theater system
• The placement of the speakers is very easy to figure out
• You get a top-notch acoustic performance

Cons

• The subwoofer can get a bit slippery
• You may have some trouble with the wireless adapter

2. Rockville HTS56 1000w 5.1 Channel Home Theater System

Do you have a lot of parties in your home? If that’s the case, then this is the best thing you can get for yourself. Because this home theater system comes with amazing LED light effects and a wireless setup. So, when you are hosting a party, it’s an excellent medium for music and entertainment.

Now, coming to the build quality, I have to say it’s very impressive with the MDF board cabinet. This doesn’t only provide a good build on this but also has an advantage of sound quality. Even though the panels you get on the front are plastic, you can still expect good durability from them.

No hassle of wires is something that makes this home theater system a very convenient setup. It comes with Bluetooth and USB input technology, so you can easily rely on these mediums for playing music on it. Some microphone ports allow you to enjoy some Karaoke as well.

Specifications

• Speaker system: 5.1 channel
• RMS power: 250watt
• Frequency response: 20hz to 20000hz
• Connectivity: RCA, AUX, Bluetooth, USB, SD card
• Dimensions: ‎17.3 x 17.7 x 22.3 inches
• Weight: 28.7lbs

Pros

• This is great for creating that party vibe
• The build quality is pretty good
• It comes with Bluetooth and USB connectivity
• The sound quality is more than enough satisfying
• It’s very easy to install as a home theater system

Cons

• It doesn’t have an optical connection
• You will need some tweaking here and there for the best results

3. Pyle 5.1 Channel Home Theater Speaker System

Well, this is an excellent pick for those who aren’t looking for something extraordinary. It meets all the basic requirements for a quality home theater system. The most important factor with this one is that it will satisfy almost anyone who is looking for a proper experience with their home theater system.

One of the most impressive parts of this system is its power. Usually, with budget options, you don’t expect too much power out of the sound system. But this whole setup just ultimately proves all those norms wrong. You can expect quite decent power coming from this speaker system.

As for the sound quality, it has got excellent reproduction of stereo sound. With the 5.1 channel, you will get the complete feel of surround sound with crisp and detailed quality. And everything just blends into perfection with the balance in the subwoofer.

Specifications

• Speaker system: 5.1 channel
• Peak power: 300watt
• Frequency response: 20hz to 20000hz
• Connectivity: RCA, AUX, Bluetooth, HDMI
• Dimensions: 16.3 x 15 x 11.8 inches
• Weight: 28.2lbs

Pros

• This one has the pretty decent build quality
• It offers good power for a louder effect
• The sound quality is quite good
• There is a Bluetooth streaming feature for convenience
• This features an HDMI output for better quality out of modern devices

Cons

• The surround sound quality could have been a bit better
• Setting up the whole thing can be troublesome

4. Bobtot Home Theater System Surround Sound Speakers – Best in versatility

Here’s the thing, you don’t need to get that surround sound going all the time. Sometimes, you may want to enjoy normal stereo sound. And this is the home theater that meets that need flawlessly. It lets you switch between 5.1 channels to 2.1 channels in an instant.

Along with this handy feature, there are so many things this has to offer. One of them is the quality Bluetooth feature. It comes with the 5.0 Bluetooth technology that has the power to transmit audio faster and provide a much more stable connection. Usually, you don’t expect this kind of quality from a budget option.

As for the sound quality, I would say you will end up all satisfied after witnessing the performance yourself. With the peak power of 800watts, this can put out some powerful bass that you will love to have in your music listening experience.

Specifications

• Speaker system: 5.1/ 2.1 channel
• Peak power: 800watt
• Frequency response: 20hz to 20000hz
• Connectivity: RCA, AUX, Bluetooth
• Dimensions: 17.5 x 16.7 x 16 inches
• Weight: 18.48lbs

Pros

• The speaker setup looks very classy
• It provides good sound quality for all purposes
• You can switch between modes easily
• The versatility of using this speaker is impressive
• It has a great Bluetooth connectivity option

Cons

• The setup of this speaker set isn’t the best with all the confusing instructions
• This may take up a lot of space in your living area

5. Rockville HTS45 600w 5.1 Channel Bluetooth Home Theater Audio System – Best Overall

Well, if you want the best of both worlds with an affordable price and some premium quality in the audio, this is the option for you. It’s without any question the best overall home theater system you can get within a budget. Whether you are thinking about sounds or the setup or just the value of this thing.

With this home theater system, you will never have to worry about any distortion, no matter what volume you are going to. Even if the bass and the volume are up, you can’t notice even the slightest distortion from this home theater system.

Pairing that up with the complete 5.1 channel just takes this system to another level. You can simply enjoy the whole surround sound in whatever setup you want with some loud volumes. Whether it’s movies or music or even playing games, it just works with perfection.

Specifications

• Speaker system: 5.1 channel
• Peak power: 800watt
• Frequency response: 300hz to 20000hz
• Connectivity: RCA, AUX, Bluetooth, Optical Input, Coaxial, USB, SD
• Dimensions: 13.3 x 15 x 18.2 inches
• Weight: 20.4lbs

Pros

• It has got almost all kinds of connectivity options
• The sound quality is very good in this setup
• It’s super easy to install without any complications
• You get excellent value out of the speakers
• The build quality is on par with some high-end speakers

Cons

• The back speaker wires quality could have been better
• You will need to do some tweaks for the best performance

6. Acoustic Audio by Goldwood 5.1 Speaker System 5.1-Channel

I don’t think home theater systems can go any cheaper than this. This is probably one of the most affordable and cheapest home theater systems you can find out there that truly work. Surely, it’s not the best among the others in terms of performance, but it isn’t awful either. You can still get good value out of this system.

Even at this price, you are getting about 600watts of peak power, which is a lot to get. Especially, getting this kind of power on a 5.1 speaker setup is something that you have to admire.

Now, the most surprising feature to find this one is the Bluetooth connectivity. It’s challenging to think of a budget speaker system with Bluetooth connectivity, and considering the price of the setup; it’s truly a wonder. And it’s also quite good for connecting as well. You don’t face any kind of stability issues with the Bluetooth, so it’s an option you can rely on without too much thought.  

Specifications

• Speaker system: 5.1 channel
• Peak power: 600watt
• Frequency response: 20hz to 20000hz
• Connectivity: RCA, AUX, Bluetooth, USB, SD
• Dimensions: 12.5 x 6.3 x 11 inches
• Weight: 13lbs

Pros

• The home theater system is very lightweight and compact
• You get a complete surround system setup for minimal space
• The volume control of this setup is impressive
• There is Bluetooth streaming connectivity option
• It doesn’t lack the power to provide quality sounds

Cons

• The build quality isn’t the best neither are the looks
• It has some important connectivity options missing

7. Polk Audio MagniFi Max Home Theater Sound Bar with 5.1 Dolby Digital Experience

Don’t want to fill up your whole room with the home theater setup? Then this minimal setup can be the perfect way to solve your issue. It’s just two pieces of equipment that give you the same 5.1 surround sound you expect from a complete home theater setup. And, of course, soundbars are becoming the go-to option for many people out there.

First of all, the specialty of this setup is the looks and appearance it’s going to add to your setup. There is just one soundbar and a wireless subwoofer. So, it won’t make your living room like a mess or a studio either while providing the same level of experience. You will feel your home’s whole home theater setup much more elegant and classier.

Adding to that comes the convenience of wireless operation—no hassle of managing or connecting different cables on this one. But if you want, you can still have that HDMI and HDMI arc option that provide excellent output quality in the sounds. You just love to have those in your music device for sure.

Specifications

• Speaker system: 5.1 channel
• Peak power: 400watt
• Frequency response: 35hz to 20000hz
• Connectivity: HDMI, HDMI-Arc, Bluetooth, Optic
• Dimensions: 3.91 x 39 x 3.59 inches
• Weight: 7.5lbs

Pros

• The setup is very compact and easy to fit in any space
• It makes the home theater setup more modern
• Most of the connections are wireless, which makes things convenient
• Includes most of the latest connectivity options
• The build material quality is top-notch

Cons

• It doesn’t have any traditional connectivity option
• The peak power isn’t the highest

8. Logitech Z506 Surround Sound Home Theater Speaker System

I bet all the gamers out there already guessed it. If you are thinking of getting a home theater system primarily for gaming on your PlayStation or XBOX, this is the perfect home theater set. It’s suited for gaming purposes, but along with that, you can also rely on this for music and movie watching as well.

The sound quality you get from this speaker, considering the price, is just phenomenal. You will have nothing to complain about as long as it’s about the sound quality. It has crisp and clear details on the highs and mid ranges. At the same time, it doesn’t lack on the bass at all, thanks to those subwoofers.

The speaker setup doesn’t look out of place either. They can easily fit in with the aesthetics of the living space. Also, they are quite compact individually; you won’t find yourself bulking up your living room with these speakers. So, the whole thing can quickly go into your living area.

Specifications

• Speaker system: 5.1 channel
• RMS Power: 75watt
• Frequency response: 20hz to 20000hz
• Connectivity: RCA, 3.5mm jack
• Dimensions: 15.94 x 7.13 x 11.06 inches
• Weight: 11.45lbs

Pros

• The speakers are good with the balanced sound quality
• They can easily fit into smaller spaces
• In terms of looks, you can hardly find any flaws with these
• The speakers are easy to set up with RCA and AUX connections
• They come at a fantastic price tag

Cons

• The wires of the speakers may keep you limited
• You can’t mount the speakers on the wall

Buyers guide for a budget home theater system

Now, when you are out there looking for a quality home theater system within a preferred budget, you will have to consider many different things. So, let’s check out the factors you have to think about when looking for a home theater system.

Sound channel configuration

Channel consideration is very important whenever you are looking to get home theater systems. Usually, you come across two choices: a 5.1 surround system or a 7.1 surround system. Before picking one, make sure that your TV or device supports the kind of system.

So, let’s say you have a TV that supports a 7.1 surround system; only then will you get the best out of your home theater system. Otherwise, it can’t bring its full potential. Which one you choose mostly depends on the setup you are looking for in your home.

Sound quality

For the most part, it’s a personal preference, and there is no standard option you can pick. Having said that, home theaters are primarily used for listening to music. So, it’s only natural that you would want a good bass coming from your home theater system.

However, going for a balanced and natural-sounding home theater system works out the best. Because that way, you will be able to enjoy movies and music simultaneously without compromising on one or the other.

Ease of installation

Let’s get real; no one wants to go through a lengthy and difficult installation process for their setup. So, you will surely want to get a home theater system that’s very easy to install. Usually, you would want to avoid drilling or to set up frames for your home theater system.

Features

This is the part where you have to think about the pricing of the home theater system. Because when you are buying a home theater system within a budget, you can’t expect too many advanced features from it. So, you will have to consider this factor before buying a home theater system.

Still, I would say features like Bluetooth, remote control, USB input, SD card, and EQ are some things that you should find in a quality home theater system. Even if it’s a budget pick, these aren’t that expensive features.

You can also look out for features like Karaoke or LED lights for special occasions. For example, if you are the host of a lot of house parties, then LED lights can be a great way to add that feel to the party.

Look at the setup

Here’s the thing, when it comes to home theater systems, they are mostly meant for living areas. So, how your speaker setup looks and appears has a lot to do with whether you should be buying it or not. Because no one wants to make, their living room look ugly, right?

You can find some elegant and classy-looking speaker sets that provide you with the perfect look you are going for. However, it can be difficult to find the higher-end looks on your home theater systems with budget home theater sets.

So, these are the things you have to go through before you can end up with a buying decision. Going through this helps you decide on the best possible home theater system for your particular needs.

Conclusion

Summing up the best budget home theater system, I would say it’s not that difficult to find the perfect pick when you have the options. But without any clue where to start, it can be troublesome to get a quality home theater system. With home theater systems, you will always have to think about not just the sounds but also the set up as a whole.

Now from the choices, you can go with any one of them. However, if you are looking for something specific, I have got you covered with that.

Klipsch Black Reference Theater Pack 5.1 Surround Sound System is the perfect pick for those who want the absolute best performance from their home theater system. It just satisfies you with the top quality, high-end performance, and excellent build quality.

But if you are looking for something that can meet your needs for different purposes and provide you with versatility, then Bobtot Home Theater System Surround Sound Speakers is the best pick for you. It is suitable for music, movies, and gaming.

Now, for the best overall pick, I would suggest you go with the Rockville HTS45 600w 5.1 Channel Bluetooth Home Theater Audio System. The price, performance, and build everything work too well with this one. You will hardly have any complaints with this one.