$ cydon --vol=4 --issue=27 WEEK OF JUNE 22, 2026 290 REVIEWS · HANDS-ON PICKS

Sharp opinions on smart home gear. Clear verdicts, honest picks, and the best prices.

BUY · SKIP · WAIT · SAVE · SWITCH · BUY · SKIP · WAIT · SAVE · SWITCH · BUY · SKIP · WAIT · SAVE · SWITCH · BUY · SKIP · WAIT · SAVE · SWITCH · BUY · SKIP · WAIT · SAVE · SWITCH · BUY · SKIP · WAIT · SAVE · SWITCH ·
BUDGET-GUIDE · 4 MIN · JANUARY 22, 2026 · BY CYDON

Best Soundbars under $700: Philips Hue Playbar vs Eufy Soundbar 3.1

Best Soundbars Under $700: Philips Hue Playbar vs. Eufy Soundbar 3.1 Finding the perfect soundbar for your budget can be a challenge, but this guide helps you discover which model best suits your needs. It breaks down the key differences between the Philips Hue Playbar and the Eufy Soundbar 3.1. Product Overview Philips Hue Playbar Price: $299 Display: None Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Features: Integrated smart lighting and security system, Easy installation with guided setup in the Hue app, Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Home Kit, and Smart Things Voice Assistants: Google Assistant Eufy Soundbar 3.

BUY
↓ THE SHORT VERSION
Best Soundbars under $700: Philips Hue Playbar vs Eufy Soundbar 3.1
↓ READER-SUPPORTED. This guide contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, Cydon Says may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We never accept paid placements.

Best Soundbars under $700: Philips Hue Playbar vs Eufy Soundbar 3.1

Best Soundbars Under $700: Philips Hue Playbar vs. Eufy Soundbar 3.1

Eufy Soundbar 3.1

Philips Hue Playbar

Finding the perfect soundbar for your budget can be a challenge, but this guide helps you discover which model best suits your needs. It breaks down the key differences between the Philips Hue Playbar and the Eufy Soundbar 3.1.


Product Overview

Philips Hue Playbar

  • Price: $299
  • Display: None
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
  • Features: Integrated smart lighting and security system, Easy installation with guided setup in the Hue app, Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Home Kit, and Smart Things
  • Voice Assistants: Google Assistant

Eufy Soundbar 3.1

  • Price: $249
  • Display: None
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
  • Features: High-quality sound with multiple drivers for a balanced audio experience, Built-in app control for smooth setup and operation
  • Voice Assistants: Google Assistant

Setup Experience

Philips Hue Playbar Setting up the Philips Hue Playbar is relatively straightforward. Connecting it via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi takes just a few minutes. The guided setup process in the Philips Hue app walks you through the steps to ensure everything is configured correctly. Initial setup can be complex for beginners.

Eufy Soundbar 3.1 The Eufy Soundbar 3.1 also has a user-friendly setup process. It can be paired via Bluetooth or connected to your Wi-Fi network easily through the app. The guided setup ensures that all components are set up properly, and you can start enjoying your music right away. The process is smoother for those who prioritize a hassle-free experience.


Daily Use Experience

Philips Hue Playbar During daily use, the Philips Hue Playbar delivers excellent audio quality with clear dialogue and immersive surround sound. The integrated smart lighting features add an extra layer of entertainment, allowing you to control color temperature and brightness from your phone or voice commands. However, this functionality comes at the cost of increased complexity in setup and management.

Eufy Soundbar 3.1 The Eufy Soundbar 3.1 excels in providing a balanced audio experience with its multiple drivers. The sound is crisp and clear, making it suitable for both music and movies. Without integrated lighting features, the setup process is simpler, leading to less initial frustration. You can control the soundbar directly through the app without needing additional devices.


What Competitors Do Better

Sony HT-CT700 The Sony HT-CT700 offers superior audio quality with 360 Reality Audio support and Dolby Atmos. While it’s pricier, its advanced audio features make it a standout choice for audiophiles.

Bose Sound Bar 500 The Bose Sound Bar 500 provides outstanding clarity and depth in sound. Its powerful drivers and sophisticated processing give you a rich listening experience. While it’s also more expensive, its superior audio performance sets it apart from the Philips Hue Playbar and Eufy Soundbar 3.1.


Pros and Cons

Philips Hue Playbar

  • Pros: Integrated smart lighting system enhances your viewing experience; easy installation with guided setup.
  • Cons: Initial setup can be complex for beginners; may require more attention to integrate with other smart home devices.

Eufy Soundbar 3.1

  • Pros: Simple and straightforward setup process; good balance of sound quality without the added complexity.
  • Cons: No integrated lighting or security features; might not stand out as much in terms of smart home integrations.

The Verdict

Which One to Buy

Philips Hue Playbar

  • Best For: Those looking for a soundbar with integrated smart lighting and easy setup, even if it means dealing with additional devices.
  • Price: $299

Eufy Soundbar 3.1

  • Best For: Users who prioritize simplicity in their smart home setup and are primarily focused on audio quality.
  • Price: $249

FAQ

Q: Which soundbar has better voice assistant support? Both the Philips Hue Playbar and Eufy Soundbar 3.1 offer Google Assistant integration, but the Philips Hue Playbar can also be controlled through Alexa and Apple Home Kit.

Q: Can you use both soundbars with the existing smart home system? Yes, both models are compatible with popular smart home platforms like Smart Things, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home.

Q: Which setup process is easier to follow? The Eufy Soundbar 3.1 has a simpler setup process compared to the Philips Hue Playbar’s guided setup in the Hue app.


Also on Cydon Says

  • Best Wireless Speakers Under $200: A Comprehensive Guide
  • Top Smart Lights for Your Home Office: Enhance Productivity and Ambiance
  • Budget-Friendly Smart Home Devices: What You Need to Know