Home Cinema Systems

An all in one home cinema system is an ideal choice if you want surround sound in your home with the minimum of fuss, and in a sleekly styled package. The packages come with everything you need to get started, and are easy to set up.

If having lots of speakers bothers you then a 2.1 system might suit, or if running cables doesn't appeal, then why not consider a wireless home cinema system?

Buyers Guide » Top 10 Systems »

Image of a simple Sony Home Cinema System in a minimalist room

Image of a sleek home cinema system in a stylish apartment with an amazing view out the window If you want a system with good looks, and requires a minimum of fuss to set up, then an all in one home cinema system could be just what you need.

Modern all in one systems are designed to go together perfectly, both acoustically, and aesthetically. This has the advantage that not only will they look good in your lounge or bedroom, but you will have a great sounding home cinema system without the extra hassle of trying to select the right speakers, or amplifiers.

All in one home cinema systems include everything you need to get started: a DVD or Blu-ray Player, speakers, speaker cables, and simple instructions.

Some systems are available without the DVD and Blu-ray player and just include the speakers and amplifier which is useful if you are already happy with your existing player.

You may also need an HDMI cable to connect the player to your television - some systems are supplied with them, some aren't (read our HDMI cable buyers guide for more.

You could go for a separates system, but here are our top 5 reasons why buying an all in one system is a good choice:

Rendered image of a standard home cinema system in a perfect set up

5 reasons to buy a home cinema system:

Convenience - Because everything in included in the box, you don't need to shop around for different components;
Wide selection - All the major brands have their own systems and they are widely available both online and in the High Street;
Brands - The styling will normally match the brands TV's, and the remote controls can usually be used on your television too;
Easy to set up - With easy to follow instructions and everything you need in the box, they are the easiest way to get your own home cinema;
Value - They're usually much cheaper than a separates system, mainly because they concentrate on doing one thing: giving you a great surround sound experience.

If you've now decided that an all in one system is the right choice for you, there a few things you need to consider to help you narrow down your choices from the bewildering number available.

These range from simple practical decisions about where you can position the speakers and the budget you have available, to more personal choices of style and brand. The list on the right should help you make sure you have covered off the important points.

Whichever system you choose, you'll enjoy your films and gaming a great deal more and really appreciate the benefits of your own home cinema!

Our Home Cinema System reviews will help you choose the best system for your needs, and also help you find the best prices too.

Image of a Sony 2.1 Home Cinema System with tall boy front speakers in a modern room

What to consider

Position - Decide in advance where to place your speakers as this can help you decide which systems will suit. You may need tall speakers if you want to position them behind sofas, or very small speakers if you want to hide them away.
Cables - All the speaker cables you need are usually included. You will often need to purchase an HDMI cable to go from the amplifier/player to your television separately though, so you may need to budget for this.
How many speakers - There are many systems available with either 2.1, 3.1 or 5.1 speakers (.1 being the subwoofer) and if you will have trouble positioning the rear speakers you might want to go for a 2 or 3 speaker option instead.
Wireless speakers - Some of the latest systems also include wireless rear speakers to save you having to trail cables around the floor, although more expensive they are a great option for the ultimate convenience.

Now you've ruled out a few options and favoured some others, it should make the final decision of deciding that little bit easier.

We've grouped the systems together into 5 simple categories (see the panel on the right), so all you need to do is decide which of these best suits your requirements, and choose your system!

Not for you? If you find an all in one home cinema system is not for you, then separates might be a better option. Check out our home cinema amplifiers and speakers sections for more information.

Still Undecided? If you still need convincing, then how about this: a home cinema system will save you money! We've worked out that over the period of a year, you can actually save cash - Read the article »

Choose your system

2.1 Systems - With only 2 speakers and a subwoofer to position, there are obvious advantages, but also some downsides to 2.1 home cinema systems »
5.1 Systems - If you want the full surround sound effects, a 5.1 system is essential and still the most popular option. Read more on 5.1 »
Blu-ray Systems - Watching films in glorious high definition is the ultimate home cinema experience, and is the route we'd advise taking if you can. View Blu-ray systems »
Wireless Surround Sound - If you want the full 5.1 experience but find it difficult to run cables to the rear speakers then a wireless home cinema system could just be the answer.
DVD Systems - With the surge of high-definition Blu-ray, the range of DVD systems is small. But if you're looking for a low cost system then a DVD home cinema system is your best option.

Deciding to get your own system is the easy part - selecting exactly which one is a little more difficult!

In terms of price and features, we think these 10 systems are currently the best on the market, and offer just about the right level of performance and value for money: