Hisense HS5100 5.1ch vs JBL BAR21DBMK2
Quick Verdict
Choose the Hisense HS5100 5.1ch if you want a budget soundbar with true 5.1 physical surround, rear speakers, a center channel, 540W max power, and Bluetooth 5.3. Its Dolby Digital Plus and DTS Virtual:X are confirmed, though it lacks Atmos and eARC. Choose the JBL BAR21DBMK2 only if you prefer a simpler 2.1 setup with a 6.5 inch wireless subwoofer and 300W total power and can verify the missing HDMI, codec, and dimension details elsewhere. The JBL listing does not publish enough connectivity or format information, making it riskier without extra research.
| Spec | Hisense HS5100 5.1ch | JBL BAR21DBMK2 |
|---|---|---|
| Channels | 5.1 | 2.1 channels (based on Bar 2.1 in listing title) |
| Drivers | 8 total speakers; 6.5-inch wireless subwoofer driver, remaining driver sizes and layout not published in listing | Not published in listing except 6.5 inch subwoofer |
| Power | 540W max total system power | 300 watts total system power |
| Subwoofer | Wireless, 6.5-inch driver | 6.5 inch wireless subwoofer |
| Dolby Atmos and DTS | Dolby Digital Plus and DTS Virtual:X; no Dolby Atmos or DTS:X stated | Not published in listing |
| HDMI eARC and inputs | HDMI ARC; eARC not stated; other inputs not published in listing | Not published in listing |
| Wireless and streaming | Bluetooth 5.3; Wi-Fi, AirPlay, Chromecast not stated | Bluetooth |
| Dimensions | Not published in listing | Not published in listing |
| Remote and app | Remote control included; no mobile app mentioned | Not published in listing |
| Included accessories | Remote control, rear surround speaker kit, wireless subwoofer; wall-mount hardware not explicitly itemized | Not published in listing |
Sound Quality
The Hisense HS5100 5.1ch is a five channel system with eight total speakers, including rear surrounds and a dedicated center channel. It lists a maximum total system power of 540 watts. In contrast, the JBL BAR21DBMK2 is described in its listing title as a Bar 2.1, which means two front channels plus a subwoofer. The JBL lists 300 watts total system power and does not publish the number or sizes of its front drivers.
Both models receive the same sound quality score of 24 points out of 30 in their listing breakdowns. However, the Hisense has a configuration advantage because its rear surround speakers and center channel can create a more separated and room filling presentation for movies and TV. The JBL relies on two front channels and a subwoofer, which is typical for clear dialogue and basic stereo music but does not offer the same surround effects.
Neither listing publishes driver materials, tweeter design, or frequency response curves for the front channels. The Hisense does state eight total speakers, but the sizes and layout of the smaller drivers are not published. The JBL does not publish any driver details besides the 6.5 inch subwoofer. This makes a precise driver by driver comparison impossible without additional specification sheets.
Surround, Atmos and Audio Formats
The Hisense HS5100 5.1ch confirms support for Dolby Digital Plus and DTS Virtual:X. DTS Virtual:X can process non height content to create virtual height and expanded surround effects from a physical 5.1 speaker layout. The listing does not state Dolby Atmos or DTS:X support, so object based height audio is not included.
The JBL BAR21DBMK2 listing does not publish any Dolby or DTS decoding information. There is no mention of Dolby Digital, Dolby Atmos, DTS, or DTS Virtual:X. Because the listing is silent on audio formats, buyers cannot confirm whether it handles basic Dolby Digital from TV broadcasts or only PCM stereo.
The Hisense earns a higher surround and audio formats score of 12 points out of 15, while the JBL earns 5 points out of 15. This published difference reflects the Hisense's confirmed codec support and physical surround channels. The JBL's lower score points to its limited feature disclosure and simple 2.1 design.
Subwoofer and Bass
Both soundbars include a wireless subwoofer with a 6.5 inch driver. The Hisense subwoofer is part of a 5.1 system that includes rear speakers and a center channel, while the JBL subwoofer supports a 2.1 front focused setup. Neither listing publishes the subwoofer cabinet volume, port design, or amplifier power rating.
The Hisense system lists 540 watts maximum total system power across all channels and the subwoofer. The JBL lists 300 watts total system power for its two channel plus subwoofer configuration. These figures are total system ratings, not separate subwoofer wattage, so the extra power in the Hisense does not guarantee a proportionally stronger subwoofer output.
Because neither listing provides a subwoofer frequency response or crossover setting, buyers cannot directly compare low frequency extension or control. The 6.5 inch driver size is identical on both models, which suggests similar cone area for bass impact. Actual bass performance will depend on the amplifier tuning and enclosure design, which remain unpublished.
Connectivity and TV Setup
The Hisense HS5100 5.1ch lists HDMI ARC for TV audio return, but does not state eARC support. It includes Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless music streaming from a phone or tablet. The listing does not mention Wi-Fi, AirPlay, Chromecast, or any additional HDMI inputs.
The JBL BAR21DBMK2 listing does not publish HDMI ARC, eARC, optical, or auxiliary input details. It confirms Bluetooth for wireless streaming but gives no Bluetooth version number. This lack of published connectivity is a major gap for buyers who need to know whether the soundbar connects to a specific TV or source.
The Hisense has a more complete connectivity disclosure with HDMI ARC and Bluetooth 5.3, which makes TV setup more predictable. The JBL requires buyers to verify HDMI and optical support from another source before purchase. Both models lack published Wi-Fi and multiroom streaming features.
Features, Apps and Voice Control
The Hisense includes a remote control in the box and mentions TV Mode with EZPlay integration for compatible Hisense televisions. It does not list a mobile app for settings or firmware updates. There is no voice assistant support mentioned for built-in voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant.
The JBL listing does not publish whether a remote control is included, nor does it mention any companion app or voice control. There is no published support for services like Chromecast or AirPlay. Buyers cannot confirm basic functions such as input switching or sound modes from the listing alone.
The Hisense has a features and apps score of 9 out of 15, slightly higher than the JBL's 8 out of 15. This small advantage likely reflects the Hisense's confirmed remote and Hisense TV integration. Neither model offers advanced smart features such as Wi-Fi streaming, multiroom audio, or built in voice assistants.
Design and Fit Under a TV
Neither the Hisense HS5100 5.1ch nor the JBL BAR21DBMK2 lists soundbar dimensions or weight in its published specifications. This makes it impossible to know if either bar will fit in front of a specific TV stand or between TV legs. Buyers must physically measure the product or consult a full manual before purchase.
The JBL receives a design and TV fit score of 9 out of 15, while the Hisense receives 7 out of 15. The reason for this score difference is not explained in the listing, since both soundbars lack dimensional data. It could reflect the JBL's more compact 2.1 channel design assumption, but that is not verified by published facts.
Both systems include a wireless subwoofer, so floor space for the subwoofer is required. The Hisense also adds rear surround speakers that need placement behind or to the sides of the seating area. The JBL has no rear speakers, so its physical footprint is limited to the soundbar and subwoofer.
Who Should Buy It
The Hisense HS5100 5.1ch is best for buyers who want a budget true 5.1 physical surround system with rear speakers, a center channel, and high total power. It suits people who watch movies and TV shows and want clear dialogue plus surround effects from a single package. Bluetooth 5.3 and Hisense TV integration add convenience for compatible setups.
The JBL BAR21DBMK2 is best for buyers who want a simple 2.1 soundbar with a 6.5 inch wireless subwoofer and do not need surround channels. Its 300 watt total power and Bluetooth streaming can improve on thin TV speakers for music and basic TV viewing. However, buyers must verify missing connectivity and format details before committing.
Both models target budget conscious buyers, but the Hisense offers more channels and confirmed formats while the JBL offers a simpler package with less published information. If you value transparency and surround sound, the Hisense is the safer pick. If you can confirm the JBL's inputs elsewhere and only need 2.1, it remains a contender.
The Deciding Question
The main decision between these two soundbars comes down to one question: do you want a confirmed 5.1 surround system with rear speakers, or are you comfortable buying a 2.1 bar with significant specification gaps? The Hisense provides more verified features, while the JBL leaves many important connectivity and format questions unanswered.
A second question is whether you need to see dimensions and full input lists before buying. If the answer is yes, the JBL becomes difficult to recommend without further research. If you are willing to investigate the JBL's missing details through a retailer or manual, its strong subwoofer and brand familiarity may be enough.
For most buyers reading this comparison, the Hisense offers a clearer value proposition because its key specs are published and it includes real rear channels. The JBL can still work for a narrow use case of simple 2.1 bass reinforcement, but the burden of verification falls on the buyer.
Who Should Buy Which
Buy the Hisense HS5100 5.1ch if you want a budget physical 5.1 setup with rear speakers, a center channel, 540W max power, HDMI ARC, and Bluetooth 5.3. It is the better choice for movie watchers who value surround separation and confirmed Dolby Digital Plus and DTS Virtual:X processing. Hisense TV owners get an extra benefit from TV Mode and EZPlay.
Buy the JBL BAR21DBMK2 only if you can verify its HDMI input, codec, remote, and dimensions from another source and you want a simple 2.1 soundbar with a 6.5 inch wireless subwoofer. It fits a music listener or small room user who does not need surround speakers. The JBL's 300 watts and brand name are its main draws.
Do not buy the JBL if you need eARC, Atmos, or app control because those are not confirmed. Do not buy the Hisense if you need Dolby Atmos or eARC because the listing confirms only Dolby Digital Plus and DTS Virtual:X with HDMI ARC. For smart features like Wi-Fi or voice assistants, neither model is suitable.
Hisense HS5100 5.1ch
Pros
- True 5.1 physical surround with rear speakers and center channel
- 540W max output and 6.5-inch wireless subwoofer
- Bluetooth 5.3 for music streaming from mobile devices
- Dolby Digital Plus and DTS Virtual:X processing
- TV Mode and EZPlay integration with compatible Hisense TVs
- Budget price tier for a full surround package
Cons
- No Dolby Atmos or DTS:X, only virtual height via DTS Virtual:X
- HDMI ARC only, no eARC, and no additional HDMI inputs listed
- No Wi-Fi, app, or voice assistant support mentioned
- Dimensions, weight, and detailed driver specs not published
- Subwoofer power and frequency response not separately specified
JBL BAR21DBMK2
Pros
- 300 watts total system power
- 6.5 inch wireless subwoofer
- Bluetooth streaming confirmed
- Budget 2.1 package
- Simple bass focused design
- JBL brand familiarity
Cons
- Listing does not publish HDMI or input details
- No Dolby Atmos or DTS information
- No remote or app details published
- Limited surround or height features
- No dimensions or weight provided
Who Should Buy Each
Hisense HS5100 5.1ch
- Hisense TV owners who want seamless remote integration
- Movie and casual game fans wanting physical rear speakers
- Budget shoppers wanting a full 5.1 system without a receiver
- Users in small to medium rooms with space for a wireless sub
JBL BAR21DBMK2
- Budget TV owners who want more bass than TV speakers
- Bluetooth music streamers who do not need Wi-Fi or multiroom audio
- Small to medium rooms where a 6.5 inch subwoofer can add impact
- Buyers who do not need Atmos or surround decoding
Quick Decision Guide
| If you want true 5.1 physical surround with rear speakers and a center channel | Choose Hisense HS5100 5.1ch |
| If you want a simple 2.1 soundbar with a 6.5 inch wireless subwoofer and no rear speakers | Choose JBL BAR21DBMK2 |
| If you need a remote control included and HDMI ARC confirmed in the listing | Choose Hisense HS5100 5.1ch |
| If you can verify missing HDMI, codec, and dimension details from a separate manual or seller | Choose JBL BAR21DBMK2 |
| If you want the highest listed total system power and Bluetooth 5.3 version | Choose Hisense HS5100 5.1ch |
FAQ
About This Comparison
Mandrillis Team
The Mandrillis editorial team researches and compares audio and music gear using manufacturer documentation, verified specs and real buyer feedback, so you can make a confident purchase without wading through marketing claims.
Read our full research methodology.
We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.