Roku Streambar Pro
Score: 70/100
Hisense HS5100
Score: 74/100Rankings
The Hisense HS5100 provides a 5.1-channel, 540 W soundbar system with a wireless subwoofer and multiple sound modes. Wired rear speakers and occasional subwoofer drop-outs are drawbacks, and it lacks Wi-Fi. It targets budget-friendly home-theater fans wanting full surround without a high price.
The Roku Streambar Pro is a 2-in-1 4K HDR streaming device and soundbar delivering 36 W of virtual surround sound with Wi-Fi and voice-assistant support. Its modest power and lack of Dolby Atmos limit cinematic impact, especially without the optional subwoofer. Best suited for apartments or dorm rooms where a simple, all-in-one streaming and audio upgrade is desired.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
2 | 6best | |
36 W | 540 Wbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.495 kg | 1.59 kgbest |
1 yearsbest | — | |
— | 6best | |
81.79 cm | 90.17 cmbest | |
7.11 cm | 9.144 cmbest | |
9.91 cmbest | 6.096 cm |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(4) | ||
Audio Channels | 2.0 | 6 |
Total Power Output (W) | 36 W | 540 W |
Supported Audio Formats | Dolby Audio, PCM, Virtual surround | Dolby Digital Plus, DTS:X |
Wireless Subwoofer | false | true |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | unknown | 5.3 |
Design(4) | ||
Soundbar Weight (kg) | 2.495 kg | 1.59 kg |
Soundbar Width (cm) | 81.79 cm | 90.17 cm |
Soundbar Height (cm) | 7.11 cm | 9.144 cm |
Soundbar Depth (cm) | 9.91 cm | 6.096 cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the Streambar Pro's compact yet sturdy design, its seamless HDMI-ARC/optical connectivity, and the ability to stream 4K HDR content while delivering 36 W of virtual surround sound. They highlight the integrated voice-assistant support and USB media playback as added conveniences, but note that bass performance suffers without the optional subwoofer and that the modest power may not satisfy larger spaces.
Everyday users appreciate the ease of upgrading older TVs to 4K/HDR streaming and the noticeable boost in dialogue clarity and overall volume. The Bluetooth music streaming and voice remote are frequently mentioned as convenient features, while recurring complaints focus on thin bass, the need for an optical cable when HDMI-ARC isn't available, and the bar's length making it hard to fit in smaller cabinets.
Professional reviewers highlight the HS5100 as a strong value proposition, noting its impressive bass from a compact wireless subwoofer, lightweight construction that fits easily on TV stands, and a suite of sound modes that tailor audio for movies, games and music. They consider it a worthwhile investment for budget-conscious home-theater enthusiasts and state that it holds its own against similarly priced competitors.
Everyday users appreciate the immersive surround sound, the lightweight and space-saving design, and the unexpectedly deep bass from the small subwoofer. However, many complain about intermittent subwoofer drop-outs and the need to wire rear speakers, which detracts from the promised wireless experience.
“Excellent value with combined streaming and sound upgrade.”
“Heavy and good looking.”
“One-cable ARC setup works great for me.”
