Design and build:

Comparing Bose Soundbar 300 vs 500, the 500 is slimmer but wider in size. They are available in standard black color. They are made of plastic and covered with metal grilles. You can place them under 55 to 65” TVs. There is option to wall mount the bars for a cleaner look. Overall, the build quality is quite good.

Performance:

Bose soundbar 300 and 500 have 3.0 channel configuration. Comparing Bose Soundbar 300 vs 500, the Bose 500 has ADAPTiQ feature that analyzes room size and layout to improve the sound. It uses QuietPort feature to minimize turbulence resulting in cleaner low ends. This feature is also found in Bose 300. It uses DSP in order to achieve precision and details. It has a flat and neutral sound signature.

The bar has crisp highs and solid mids. Overall, the soundbar sounds rich, clean and clear for most contents. It uses DSP to optimize the sound. While watching movies, the explosions and movie effects were prominent. This soundbar sounds bigger and bolder compared to its size.

Bose 300 uses Truespace feature to deliver a sense of height when non-Atmos contents are played. Compared to the Bose 500, the 300 model is louder and is great for large spaces. However, it is best if you place them in small to medium sized rooms so that it does not become ‘tiny’. The bar is suitable for different types of content. It has airy highs and impactful lows.

That said, the bass becomes more prominent when you add a subwoofer. Overall, it is a decent sounding bar for compact spaces. Both these soundbars have decent soundstage that feels wider than the bar. Voices are clear due to independent center channel.

Features:

They work with Airplay 2 so streaming from Apple devices or apps is quite simple. Multiroom audio is supported by both soundbars. You can create up to 4 zones. In these zones, streaming through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is supported. There is an option to create a multiroom system with Chromecast as well but for that you will need Chromecast supported speakers. With Wi-Fi, streaming from online streaming services and internet radio is just a click away.

Connectivity:

They both have HDMI and optical port. This means you can connect both older and newer TV models. Bass port is available to connect additional subwoofer. In terms of wireless connectivity, they are versatile and supports Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and Chromecast.

Compatible device:

Connect Bose Bass Module and surround speakers like Bose Surround Speaker or Bose 700 Surround speaker with the soundbars to create a theater system. With SimpleSync they can connect to another speaker from Bose Home Speaker Family.

Control options:

The soundbars have a mic and Action button. They are touch sensitive and that’s it. To control the bar, you need to use the remote or mobile app. They have sleek and slim remote controls with basic control options. Bose Music app is also available with which you can perform setups, adjust bass and treble, etc. Hands free option is also available, they will work with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

There is also a Voice4Video feature that uses Amazon Alexa to control other devices (satellite or cable box) along with the bar.

Cost:

Bose soundbar 300 and 500 are similar priced models. They are available in the market under $350 and are quite affordable.

FAQ:

Which is a better alternative to the Bose 300 and 500 soundbars?

You can check the Bose 900 soundbar that has a 5.1.2 channel configuration. With up-firing and side-firing drivers, the Bose 900 can deliver powerful surrounds and overhead effects. As a result, the overall sound quality is enhanced and enjoyable.

How to improve the bass quality of Bose 500 soundbar?

Like other Bose soundbars, the 500 model has bass level adjustment. Try adjusting it to find your preferred level. Also, add an additional subwoofer for punchier low ends.