A solid sub at a reasonable volume can add rumble to film explosions and depth to kick drums, bass guitars, analog synths, orchestras, and more. Some stereo speaker pairs, however, sound great even without a subwoofer, primarily because their woofers (the drivers dedicated to low-mid and low frequencies below 1KHz) are perfectly capable of handling the bass response.
Some serious gamers and cinephiles might want to look for a 5.1-channel (or higher) surround sound system, but the extra cost and inconvenience of placing all those speakers around the room isn’t worth it to most users. That unpowered part is a very big detail that will please anyone who knows how to set up a high-end home sound system and will frustrate everyone else.
Without electricity flowing into the drivers, a speaker is just a box with some weird paper and metal bits in it. That means an amplifier is built into the speaker itself to take the signal it receives and feed enough power into the drivers to reproduce it.
This is very handy, because it means you don’t need to get a separate amp to drive your speakers; you just plug them into your computer and they work. Basically, some powered speakers are designed for high-end audiophile use, like home studio mastering. High-quality sound and robust extra features are not necessarily mutually exclusive; it depends on the set. If your PC has a limited number of USB ports, you’ll probably want to go with the more common 3.5mm audio output connector, though USB-powered speakers sometimes come with extra features, or even software that enables special functions. For home, maybe you want larger or more stylish speakers, and the ability to blast them without distortion (especially if your PC is your main music source). Look for a pair of active studio monitor speakers that represent your work as accurately as possible, and don’t color the sound in a way that way hide flaws in a recording that could show up on other listeners’ systems.
Best computer speakers in 2021
These portable audio receivers combat the tinny sound often found in some of the best laptops, combining full, balanced sonics with handy features like Bluetooth and headphone outputs. The market plays host to numerous models of different styles, which work great for any setup or computing device (e.g. desktop, laptop, smartphone) you have in mind.
Key players worth mentioning that have cemented their legacy as top computer speaker manufacturers include Edifier, Creative, and Audioengine just to name a few. You’ll even find gems here from consumer electronics staples like Bose, Harman Kardon, and gaming accessory giant, Razer.
Oh yeah, these are also the first powered monitors on the market that come with HDMI-ARC, allowing you to connect the system directly to any compatible TV for hi-res surround sound. For bargain hunters, there is the Creative Pebble V3, which packs loud sound into a compact design that is perfect for small desks and most media formats (music, video games, movies).
If money is no object, then the KEF LSX is an amazing sound system that doubles as computer speakers and delivers top-notch audio performance and tons of features. Audioengine HD3 Elite bookshelf computer speakers with hi-fi sound Specifications Type of system: 2.0 Drivers: 2.75-inch woofer, 3/4-inch tweeters Inputs: Bluetooth, RCA, USB, 3.5 mm auxiliary Size: 2.75-inch woofer, 3/4-inch tweeters Watts: 30 (per speaker) TODAY’S BEST DEALS Low Stock View at Audio Visual Online View at Electricshop Check Amazon 126 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Crystal clear sound + Built-in DAC and headphone amp + Handsome design + Strong wireless performance Reasons to avoid – Not for bass lovers
You’ll still get to some nice oomph out of the drivers when listening to bass-dominating tracks, but don’t expect to blow a hole through your college dorm roof. Klipsch The Fives Monstrous speakers with monstrous sound Specifications Type of system: 2.1 Drivers: 4.5-inch woofer, 1-inch tweeter Inputs: Bluetooth, HDMI-ARC, OPT, RCA, USB, 3.5 mm auxiliary Size: 18.5 x 17.5 x 13.5 inches Watts: 80 (per speaker) TODAY’S BEST DEALS Low Stock View at Audio Visual Online Prime View at Amazon View at Amazon Reasons to buy + Stellar sound signature + Beautiful design and controls + Plenty of connection options + Can be paired with most turntables Reasons to avoid – Massively sized
Despite no subwoofer, these monitors blast powerful, balanced sound to create an immersive listening experience when enjoying music, movies, sports, and video games. The details in craftsmanship are remarkable as exhibited by the aluminum dials sitting atop the right channel to allow for seamless switching between the numerous connections.
As you can see by the dimensions, The Fives isn’t exactly a pair of computer speakers that rest steadily on any tiny desk, so you’ll definitely want to clear out some space before these arrive on your doorstep. Creative Pebble V3 Best budget computer speakers Specifications Type of system: 2.0 Drivers: 2.25-inch full range Inputs: Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C, 3.5 mm auxiliary Size: 4.8 x 4.7 x 4.6 inches Watts: 16 (W) TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime View at Amazon Reasons to buy + Unbeatable price + Amplified audio mode + Compact enough to travel with and a fit in any space + Bluetooth 5.0 Reasons to avoid – Crackling at max volume – Won’t replace your home theater system
Those with distinctive hearing may also notice how well the Pebble V3’s clear dialog audio processing performs when compared to what comes out of your MacBook’s built-in speakers; dialogue-heavy scenes in movies and games sound amazing.
KEF LSX A luxury wireless sound system perfect for computer use Specifications Type of system: 2.0 Drivers: 4.5-inch woofer, 0.75-inch aluminum-dome tweeter Inputs: Bluetooth, OPT, 3.5 mm auxiliary, Ethernet Size: 9.5 x 6.1 x 7.1 inches Watts: 100 TODAY’S BEST DEALS Low Stock View at Audio Visual Online Prime View at Amazon Prime View at Amazon Reasons to buy + Beautiful sound + Impeccable build quality + Loaded with features + Can play music from multiple streaming services Reasons to avoid – Streaming app is finicky
Unique details like the Uni-Q driver array, which consists of a 19mm aluminum dome tweeter sitting in the center of a 10cm bass cone, are complementary to the LSX’s appearance as well. Sound is rich with an impactful low end that favors bass-heavy genres, though you can customize this in the EQ settings via Control app.
Edifier R1280DB Solid build quality and sound Specifications Type of system: 2.0 Drivers: 4-inch woofer, 13mm tweeters Inputs: Bluetooth, RCA, 3.5 mm auxiliary. Their penchant for build quality is certainly on display, with the speakers featuring a wood grain finish, vinyl wrap, and magnetic shields for protection from surrounding items.
More enticing than the design is the sound quality, which is ideal for multiple media formats (e.g. music, movies, and games), thanks to its superb mids and highs. Fluance Ai61 High-powered stereo sound in a bookshelf design Specifications Type of system: 2.0 Drivers: 6.5-inch woofer, 1-inch tweeter Inputs: Bluetooth, RCA, SUB OUT, TOSLINK Optical, USB Type-C Size: 13.1 x 7.8 x 9.2 inches Watts: 120W (per speaker) TODAY’S BEST DEALS Check Amazon Visit Site Reasons to buy + Versatile sound performance + Multiple connection options + Lightweight and sturdy + Basic setup Reasons to avoid – Slightly expensive These speakers produce loud, powerful bass and impressive stereo separation to hear instruments and vocals distinctly through the left and right channels. Razer Nommo Pro The best computer speakers for gaming Specifications Type of system: 2.1 Drivers: 3-inch Custom woven glass fiber drivers, 0.8-inch silk dome tweeters Inputs: Bluetooth, AUX, USB, Optical Size: 10.64 x 10.64 x 15.37 inches Watts: N/A TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at Maplin UK Prime View at Amazon View at Razer 715 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Immersive sound + Multiple inputs + User-friendly app and software + Striking design Reasons to avoid – Up there in price – Sound modes can make low end overbearing
These speakers boast a loud, wide soundstage that delivers an immersive listening experience perfect for gaming; you’ll be more aware of sneak attacks during Call of Duty: Warzone multiplayer matches and hear players voices clearly over heavy gunfire. Logitech Z407 Affordable desktop speakers that don’t skimp on bass Specifications Type of system: 2.1 Drivers: TBD Inputs: Bluetooth 5.0, micro-USB, 3.5 mm auxiliary Size: 7.87 x 3.70 x 3.35 inches (satellite), 9.45 x 9.21 x 7.09 inches (subwoofer) Watts: 80 (W) TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime View at Amazon View at John Lewis View at Logitech EMEA Reasons to buy + Immersive audio quality + Innovative dial controller + Stellar connectivity + Small size makes for a great desktop setup Reasons to avoid – Not the best for dialogue-related content – Controller is battery powered The speakers are engineered more for music listening, as exemplified by the powerful bass levels, though you can enjoy some crisp sound quality when indulging in Netflix content or podcasts. We would just recommend bringing down the volume and disconnecting the subwoofer, which is more useful for extending the low end and driving your roommates nuts with loud explosions during Call of Duty: Black Ops – Cold War online battles. Logitech also includes one of the coolest controllers we have tested in the category; it resembles a hockey puck and lets you adjust audio from across the room via dial mechanism. Klipsch R-41PM Legacy sound in a fancy design Specifications Type of system: 2.0 Drivers: 4-inch woofer, 1-inch tweeter Inputs: Bluetooth, RCA, SUB OUT, Optical, USB Audio, AUX input Size: 9.8 by 5.9 by 7.5 inches Watts: 70W TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime View at Amazon View at Amazon Reasons to buy + Wide soundstage with rich bass + Plenty of connection options + Handsome design Reasons to avoid – Stridency at high volume – Bluetooth is clunky
An included sub-out line makes it seamless to add a subwoofer, should you want to boost low frequencies, which isn’t necessary for small settings, but is available nonetheless. Craftsmanship is excellent too, made up of exposed fasteners, low profile magnetic grilles, and a scratch-resistant, textured wood grain vinyl finish for a polished appearance. Edifier Hecate G5000 Monstrous gaming speakers with RGB lighting Specifications Type of system: N/A Drivers: 4-inch woofer, 0.75-inch tweeter Inputs: Bluetooth, COAX, Optical, USB Audio, AUX input Size: 11 x 7.4 x 8.7 inches Watts: 88W TODAY’S BEST DEALS Visit Site Reasons to buy + Loud, stereo sound with Hi-Res audio support + RGB light mode + Three sound modes Reasons to avoid – Mainly designed for gaming – Too big for most desktop setups SmartComms software brings advanced features into the mix such as voice detection to automatically mute/unmute yourself and NoiseClean-out to remove unwanted noises from the background in real-time.
How to Connect a Bluetooth Speaker to a Computer
As long as your Bluetooth speaker is in range of your computer, you can use it to listen to any audio. If you want to use a Bluetooth speaker through your computer, it might not be immediately apparent exactly how you can connect the two devices. There are plenty of reasons why your Bluetooth speaker won’t connect to your PC. While this sounds extraordinarily basic, try turning the Bluetooth device off and on again, as well as restarting your computer. You can also try un-pairing and re-pairing your Bluetooth speaker if you already had it connected to your computer previously.
The best PC speakers for gaming, streaming and music
Most laptops and monitors deliver pretty average sound quality, making a pair of the best PC speakers a wise investment if you want to enjoy an immersive audio experience at your desk. Desktop speakers are the simplest way to upgrade your computer’s audio and typically don’t require large amplifiers or lots of connection cables. Whether you’re looking for a compact, cheap way of enhancing your tinny laptop audio or seeking an audiophile experience to do your custom-built gaming rig justice, there are plenty of great PC speakers to choose from. These offer an alternative to traditional satellite speakers but aren’t an ideal pairing for laptops – they’re best suited to life under the monitor of a desktop PC setup.
Perfect if you have poor speakers in your laptop or want to connect them to your PC monitor, they produce a firm and full sound for any of your audio needs. You can buy a little set of stereo (also known as 2.0) speakers for your PC or Mac for as little as £10, and while they may be an improvement on the tinny sound that emanates from most laptops and tablets, they’re never going to let you sit back and wallow in your favourite tunes.
Cheaper speakers that are housed in a lightweight plastic “cabinet” tend to vibrate as you start to pump up the volume, causing distortion that affects the sound quality. That’s not to say that plastic speakers are all automatically rubbish, but it’s not until you spend around £100 or more that you get solid rattle-free build quality that does its bit to reduce distortion and improve clarity.
As you head towards and beyond the £200 mark, you’ll also start to come across PC speaker cabinets made out of wood, with MDF being a popular choice for many manufacturers and audio enthusiasts. You’ll also find that speakers may boast more potent amplification (measured in watts), which may provide higher volumes and clearer sound compared to lower-end models.
Certain stereo speakers may offer Bluetooth as an extra feature – so you can use them wirelessly with a smartphone or tablet – but you’ll generally get better results with a wired connection. Speakers with a USB input option may also provide a DAC (digital to analogue converter) that’s capable of handling high-res audio files.
The extra space and cabling required for 2.1 systems, which include two smaller satellite speakers alongside a separate subwoofer, may be enough to put some people off straight away. The benefit of a 2.1 system is that the smaller speakers can handle the less demanding upper frequencies, while the larger subwoofer deals with the rumble and thump of the bass regions.
Spend similar money on a good 2.0 system, however, and you’ll generally get a better quality of sound, with more clarity and detail, and tighter, less exaggerated bass.
The V3 are the first speakers in Creative’s affordable Pebble range to feature Bluetooth connectivity and are an excellent choice for those with limited budgets and desk space. The USB-powered spherical satellites are compact enough to be slotted into just about any desktop setup, while audio quality is good given the low cost of entry. Simple to use, space-efficient and packing up to 8W RMS of power, the Pebble V3 are a superb value-for-money way of improving your laptop or desktop PC’s audio performance.
JBL’s QuantumSOUND signature was specifically created for gaming and it shows, with weighty bass reproduction lending impact to firefights in first-person shooters and accurate sound positioning allowing you to pinpoint enemies and teammates. Effects can be easily switched between using a button housed on top of the right speaker, and there are three brightness levels in addition to the option to turn the lighting off altogether.
Surround-sound mode boosts in-game immersion significantly, while Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity enables you to use the Quantum Duo to play audio from your phone. Happily, though, sound quality is good too, with enough bass to give music a decent amount of weight, and a high-end that reveals detail in everything from Zoom calls to delicate classical works.
That means you can stream music wirelessly while still hearing notifications and receiving voice or video calls from your other devices – and that’s genuinely handy. Angled at 45˚, the system reproduces a pleasant audio experience with impressive bass tones, accurate-sounding mids and a wide soundstage – it’s loud enough to fill a small bedroom.
They’re small enough to sit on a desk beside your laptop or PC monitor, but large enough to produce a full, firm sound for listening to music, or a bit of a binge-watch on Netflix. There’s no Bluetooth unless you upgrade to the more expensive Z207, but the Z200 provides a fixed audio cable for your laptop, with an additional 3.5mm socket so you can still plug in a mobile device if you want to. The SoundSlayer can connect to devices via Bluetooth, which is great for when you simply want to blast out a playlist from Spotify on your phone, and works well with next-gen gaming consoles, too. So, if you’ve been lucky enough to bag a PS5 or Xbox Series X you can enjoy the immersive sonic experience it provides on your console in addition to your PC.
This high-end 2.1 speaker system includes two futuristically designed satellites, a beefy downward-firing subwoofer and a control hub that allows you to select from the impressive range of input sources on offer. The sheer size of the Nommo Pro makes it a poor choice for those short on desk space but if you have the room to accommodate it, it’s a powerful and versatile system that will enhance your audio experience whether you’re gaming, watching a movie or simply listening to some tunes. Key specs – Type: 2.1 stereo (plus virtual surround sound); Inputs: 3.5mm, Bluetooth 4,2, optical, USB-B; Outputs: None; Dimensions: Satellites – 27 x 13cm, Subwoofer – 39 x 27cm Housed inside a beautiful wooden enclosure, the pair of 6.5in aluminium mid-to-low-end drivers and 107mm planar tweeters deliver an outstanding 256W of RMS power.
Key specs – Type: 2.0 stereo; Inputs: USB, RCA, Balanced XLR (3-pin), coaxial, optical, Bluetooth; Outputs: N/A; Dimensions: 356 x 232 x 268mm
Best computer speakers 2021: the best audio systems for your PC
Connect to your PC with 3.5mm aux, RCA, or optical cables and enjoy THX certified sound thanks to a 130W subwoofer and two 35W satellite speakers. Save $5 – These best-selling desktop computer speakers were already a great value, but now with 20% off at Amazon, you can enjoy good quality sound for the price thanks to far-field drivers and passive rear-facing radiators for enhanced bass audio.
Audioengine A2+ will function with your PC’s USB port for uncompressed audio and amazing sound quality with its built-in DAC.
Audioengine A2+ Big things come in small packages Specifications Weight: 1.6kg left, 1.4kg right Size: 6in x 4in x 5.25in Drivers: 2.75-inch Kevlar woofers, ¾-inch silk dome tweeters Supported Connectivity: Wireless with Audioengine’s W3 adapter Audio Inputs: USB, RCA, 3.5mm stereo mini-jack Outputs: RCA TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at Electricshop Prime View at Amazon Prime View at Amazon 1 Amazon customer review ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Built-in digital-to-audio converter + Uncompressed audio through USB Reasons to avoid – No subwoofer included These slick-looking speakers will function with your PC’s USB port for uncompressed audio and amazing sound quality with its built-in DAC. However, if you really need that deep bass for extra rumble, that’s hardly a deal breaker: mostly because there is an RCA output, so it’s simple to connect an external woofer, which Audioengine also sells separately.
Logitech Z407 Bluetooth Computer Speakers A whole lotta BOOM for your buck Specifications Weight: 389g (satellites), 2,450g (sub) Size: 7.87 x 3.70 x 3.35 in (satellites), 9.45 x 9.21 x 7.09 in (sub) Drivers: 7-inch woofer, 2.5-inch full-range drivers Supported Connectivity: Bluetooth Audio Inputs: 1 x micro USB, 1 x 3.5mm jack Outputs: Subwoofer output TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime View at Amazon View at John Lewis View at Logitech EMEA Reasons to buy + Impressive sound with rumbling sub + Classy, versatile and compact design Reasons to avoid – Wireless control can be confusing These minimalist, capsule-shaped speakers deliver great sound quality and a decent amount of volume while offering wireless connectivity, two physical input options, and a versatile design. Logitech G560 An RGB light show Specifications Weight: 1.79kg left, 1.79kg right, 5.5kg sub Size (Satellites): 5.8 x 6.5 x 4.6 inches Size (Sub): 15.9 x 10 x 8.1 inches Drivers: 6.5-inch subwoofer, 2-inch tweeters Supported Connectivity: USB, 3.5mm, Bluetooth Audio Inputs: USB, 3.5mm stereo mini-jack Outputs: Headphone TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime Low Stock View at Amazon 557 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Brilliant RGB lighting + Includes DTS surround technology Reasons to avoid – Expensive compared to others on the list Not only do they have RGB lighting – a must for gaming peripherals in 2021 – but through Logitech’s software, the multi-colored illumination can adjust to any kind of content you consume for a more brilliant, not to mention mesmerizing, experience.
The Razer Nommo Pro may have an amusing name and a uniquely funky look, but make no mistake, these are a quality set of speakers that must be taken very seriously, and not only because of its hefty price. Try to combat the urge to run in the opposite direction of that $500 price tag, the Razer Nommo Pro has a lot to offer and is definitely a sound investment.
There’s the thundering down-firing subwoofer that’ll blow you away, and then there’s the Razer Chroma feature, making these speakers look just as great as they sound. There are definitely more reasonably priced computer speakers out there, but with this level of quality, the Razer Nommo Pro is worth the cost of entry. Harman Kardon Soundsticks III Great sound in a cool, aesthetically pleasing package Specifications Weight: 2.04kg Size: 10in x 2x satellites; 10.8in x 9in subwoofer Drivers: four 1-inch full range transducers Supported Connectivity: none Audio Inputs: 3.5mm jack Outputs: none TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at Amazon 1 Amazon customer review ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Futuristic design + Tons of bass power Reasons to avoid – Limited controls on offer
These translucent computer speakers look more like a modern art installation protesting rising ocean temperatures, but you’ll appreciate them once you hit that power button. Edifier E235 Luna E Futuristic-looking beauties with an even more gorgeous sound Specifications Weight: 3.6kg Size: 4.8in x 8.35in x 8.74in Drivers: 8-inch woofer, ¾-inch silk dome tweeter, 3-inch full-range bass driver (satellites) Supported Connectivity: Bluetooth Audio Inputs: Bluetooth, 3.5mm jack Outputs: USB port for charging, headphone jack TODAY’S BEST DEALS Check Amazon View at Amazon Reasons to buy + Gorgeous design + Excellent overall sound quality Reasons to avoid – A bit bass-heavy compared to the competition The Luna, which comes in red, white and black colors, offers a powerful but well-controlled bass, as well as great balance with sharp mids and good stereo separation. Creative T100 Ideal for smaller desks Specifications Weight: 1.0kg left, 1.0kg right Size: 8.2 x 3.7 x 5.1 inches Drivers: 2 x 2.75″ Full-Range Driver Supported Connectivity: Up to 10 meters Bluetooth connectivity Audio Inputs: 3.5 mm, USB FLAC, Optical-in, AUX-in Outputs: Optical Output TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime View at Amazon Prime View at Amazon View at Amazon Reasons to buy + Compact design + Good sound quality for the size + Bluetooth 5.0 Reasons to avoid – Won’t blow you away with its performance – Limited ports compared to other options on the list Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX THX-certified speakers that pack a punch Specifications Weight: 0.95kg satellite; 5kg subwoofer Size: 8.5in x 4.2in x 5.67x satellite; 9.5in x 9.8in x 10.2in subwoofer Drivers: ¾-inch Poly compression tweeter, 6.5-inc side-firing, long-throw fiber composite cone woofer Supported Connectivity: none Audio Inputs: MP3 two-channel soundcard miniplug Outputs: headphone jack TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at Amazon 5 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + THX-certified, home theater-quality sound + Stunning value for money Reasons to avoid – Misses some low ends These THX-certified speakers boast a lot of power, a wide frequency range of 31Hz to 20kHz, and detailed audio quality with strong bass, maximum clarity and great balance.
Edifier M3200 2.1 Multimedia Audio Speaker System Audiophile quality for cheaper Specifications Weight: 5.3Kg Size: 2.91 x 11.1 x 3.5in Drivers: Subwoofer with 5½ inch driver Supported Connectivity: none Audio Inputs: 3.5mm jack Outputs: Headphone jack TODAY’S BEST DEALS Check Amazon Reasons to buy + Affordable compared to the competition + Great sound quality for the price Reasons to avoid – Base can sound distorted at higher levels Creative Pebble Plus Best budget option Specifications Weight: 0.30kg left, 0.34kg right, 1.05kg sub Size: 4.8 x 4.5 x 4.5 inches (satellites), 5.9 x 7.7 x 8 inches (sub) Drivers: 2-inch full range speakers driver Supported Connectivity: none Audio Inputs: 3.5mm stereo mini-jack Outputs: none TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime Low Stock View at Amazon Prime View at Amazon Reasons to buy + Cheap compared to the rest + Quality sound for the price + Unique look Reasons to avoid – Only 3.5mm input – No other connectivity, wired or otherwise This 2.1 speaker system, which consists of two far-field drivers angled at a 45-degrees and a down-firing subwoofer, may not be audiophile quality, but it produces great sound for how much it costs.
The best computer speakers in 2021
They’ll produce better-sounding music, streamed videos, games, calls, podcasts, eBooks, and any other audio platform you can think of. The biggest shopping holiday of the year is creeping up on us and you’ll want to keep tabs on all the best Black Friday deals announced over the coming weeks.
Otherwise, seek out other fresh tech gear by looking over some of these audio buyer’s guides: best headphones, best microphones, best outdoor speakers, and best cheap gaming headsets. Based on sound and MSRP, the Bose Companion 2 Series III makes the most compelling argument for best computer speakers.
Not only does it take up very little surface space, but this dual-speaker system is powerful and produces highly detailed sound that serves music, video, and games equally well. PC gamers that want something with strong sonic presence should check out the Logitech G560, which includes a subwoofer and allows you to customize and assign elaborate lighting patterns based on the games you’re playing.
Coming in third place is the Razer Chroma, a model that serves as a great representation of the brand’s gorgeously designed computer accessories. Bose Companion 2 Series III The best PC speakers overall Specifications Type of system: 2.0 Inputs: Two 3.5mm inputs Size: 7.5 x 5.9 x 3.1 inches Watts: Not stated TODAY’S BEST DEALS Check Amazon Reasons to buy + Big bass, full sound Reasons to avoid – Lacks treble and bass controls It produces more bass than speakers twice the size, and with robust vocals and pleasing treble, it delivers very good sound overall.
Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX Excellent speakers with a subwoofer — but no Bluetooth Specifications Type of system: 2.1 Inputs: 3.5mm Size: Satellites: 8.5 x 5.7 x 4.2 inches; subwoofer: 10.2 x 9.8 x 9.5 inches Watts: 15 (per speaker) TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at Amazon 5 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Impressive bass + Clear vocals + Wide sound Reasons to avoid – No Bluetooth Of course, being an older speaker means that the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX lacks some modern niceties: there’s no Bluetooth, and the only way to connect the system to your computer is via a 3.5mm audio jack. AudioEngine A2+ The best computer speakers for big budgets Specifications Type of system: 2.0 Inputs: 3.5mm, RCA stereo, micro USB;RCA output Size: 6 x 5.3 x 4 inches Watts: 15 (per speaker) TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at Electricshop Prime View at Amazon Prime View at Amazon 1 Amazon customer review ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Detailed sound + Balanced bass, treble and mid Reasons to avoid – Expensive
These compact 6 x 5.3 x 4 speakers deliver crisp treble, a wide sound field, and balanced bass and midrange without a subwoofer. Logitech Z625 The best desktop speakers with a subwoofer Specifications Type of system: 2.1 Inputs: Optical digital audio, two 3.5mm, RCA Size: Satellites Watts: 35 (per satellite) TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at Logitech EMEA Prime View at Amazon 41 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Big, big bass + Optical input Reasons to avoid – Large subwoofer When you factor in the ability to control bass and treble, you’re getting multiple features that simply aren’t that common in cheaper models. The sound quality is as solid as ever, too; the 10.8 x 9.2-inch, dome-shaped subwoofer delivers rich bass, and the 10 x 2-inch satellites, each with four 2-inch drivers, produce full vocals.
Creative Pebble V3 The best computer speakers value Specifications Type of system: 2.0 Inputs: USB-C, 3.5 mm, Bluetooth Size: 4.8 x 4.7 x 4.6 inches Watts: 16W TODAY’S BEST DEALS Check Amazon Reasons to buy + Big sound from a small package + Stylish design + Plenty of connection options Reasons to avoid – Limited bass – Lacks headphone output The Creative Pebble V3 proves you don’t have to spend crazy money to snag a pair of serviceable and super-affordable computer speakers. Despite its compact size, the Pebble V3 produces loud and crisp sound, putting what comes out of your laptop speakers to shame. The orb-inspired design is attractive and takes up very little space, plus we appreciate all the hardware (e.g., 2.25-inch driver, passive bass radiator) and inputs (e.g., 3.5 mm port, USB-C) Creative managed to squeeze in.
Logitech G560 Gaming Speakers The best computer speakers for gaming Specifications Type of system: 2.1 Inputs: USB, Bluetooth, 3.5mm Size: Satellites Watts: Not stated TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime Low Stock View at Amazon 557 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Excellent overall sound + Big bass + Fun lighting options Reasons to avoid – Lighting software can be finicky – Large subwoofer It also features a sophisticated lighting system comprising four distinct zones with bright, colorful LEDs, which are fun but can be distracting.
The included software is integral; you use it to configure the lights, activate surround sound and even create profiles for specific games. Logitech Z606 The best computer speakers for home theater sound Specifications Type of system: 5.1 Inputs: Bluetooth, RCA, six-channel direct Size: Satellites Watts: 11 (per satellite) TODAY’S BEST DEALS Check Amazon $162 from B&H Reasons to buy + Surround sound + Rich bass Reasons to avoid – No optical input
The 8.9 x 7.8 x 5.5-inch speakers house a 4-inch woofer and a 0.5-inch tweeter, which together produce full, resonant bass and vocals; the treble lacks crispness, but that doesn’t detract much from the overall good audio quality. The system is not terribly expensive, either, which makes it an attractive buy for users who would prefer to save their money for other computer accessories. We’re looking for high audio quality across a range of uses, from making sure voices are clear in video calls to the speakers’ music, movie and gaming performance. We’ll play a variety of different media, including multiple musical genres, to identify any sonic strengths and weaknesses.
Generally we’ll try to spend a few days using each speaker set on a desktop/home office setup, to fully replicate the conditions in which you’d use them yourself.
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The best PC speakers for any budget
Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this page, we never allow this to influence product selections – read why you should trust us Audio cues for alerts and notifications are important, helping you to stay on top of emails and chats, as much as OS and security updates. To simplify the science behind this difference, larger speakers means a wider frequency range is available – thus much louder and better quality audio. Pros Cons • Affordable • So-so distinction between mids and bass • Good sound profile • Plenty of volume
Pros Cons • Great sound • Lacking bass • Good audio space • Small desk footprint The Pebble is powered via USB and offers a boosted audio feature when plugged into a 10W USB-C or USB-A port, which doubles the sound output from 8W to 16W.
These speakers are impressive for their size and price – if you them but fancy a little more kick to your sound, then pick up the Pebble V2 with Down-Firing Subwoofer. Pros Cons • Cheap • Not for large spaces • Portable • High volume distortion • Well-built
With the Z333, Logitech has managed to deliver a 2.1 system loaded with thick, punchy subwoofer and rich satellites – for under £50.
Ideal for enlivening music, gaming or film on a budget, this simple package is a compelling option for all. Pros Cons • Excellent build • Bass can be OTT when cranked • Fun sound profile • Reasonable cost As a home studio setup is the focus of the design, PreSonus has packed some mighty and clean 3.5 drivers to deliver a bouncy bass response.
Pros Cons • Clean sound • Low-end bass can be thin • Accurate • Great style Specifications Connections: 3.5mm aux, RCA, ¼ TRS Powered: Mains Speakers: 3.5-inch bass driver, 1-inch tweeter, 25W Logitech’s audio pedigree is here in full force too, with the DTS:X virtual surround sound proving to be rich, detailed, and very, very loud. The sub-woofer plays a large part in achieving this, adding a tremendous rumble and atmosphere to any gaming session.
The audio feels expansive and accurate, and the additional sub-woofers helps to deliver some thunderous bass. Pros Cons • Compact 5.1 • Takes up desk space • Cable channel • Powerful sound
They’re powered by a USB connection, audio input is via the standard headphone jack, there’s an easy volume control on the front, and a cable tidy system to reduce clutter when in use and being stored. The large sub-woofer keeps the lows in check while the soundbar delivers a captivating front-facing sound.
As the soundbar incorporates two speakers, it results in a clutter-free, low fuss design with fewer cables than other solutions.
Pros Cons • Great sound • Soundbar takes up desk space • Low price • Thin subwoofer Specifications Connections: 3.5mm aux, Bluetooth, optical, HDMI ARC, USB Powered: Mains Speakers: 160W All three of these statements are present and correct, with the Companion 50 system being a brilliant option for those who don’t want to save space without compromising sound performance.
Coupled with the power of the Acoustimass module, the soundstage of the multimedia system is excellent, with great depth, delicious bass and rich mid and high clarity. The five satellite speakers can be placed around the room to facilitate a true surround sound experience, while the 165w subwoofer sits and delivers some quality punchy bottom end – you won’t just hear your audio; you’ll feel it too. The receiver box can also handle up to six inputs, allowing you to hook up your TV, Blu-ray player, or stereo.
Pros Cons • High-fidelity sound • Expensive for PC • Tonnes of volume • Takes up a lot of space • Wireless remote
Specifications Connections: 3.5mm aux, RCA, six-channel direct, digital coaxial, optical Powered: Mains Speakers: 1000W If you want something on the go with a laptop, then the Creative Pebble V2 Speakers are a fine choice, with a minimalistic styling and decent audio performance. If you’re working on a small desk, there’s no point in opting for a 7.1 surround sound option that’s going to take over your workspace. However, the average user isn’t really going to find any problem with 3.5mm units, as contemporary ports and connections tend to be high quality and well insulated.
If you struggle to hear vocals in music or conversation in podcasts, boosting the midrange can bring these out for you without having to play with volume. If an audio system is THX certified it means that it has undergone vigorous and thorough testing to guarantee an extremely high level of performance that matches those expected of cinemas. William Lobley is a Senior Content Writer and reviewer for WhatsTheBest, specialising in technology, gaming, and outdoors.
Best computer speakers in 2021
These portable audio receivers combat the tinny sound often found in some of the best laptops, combining full, balanced sonics with handy features like Bluetooth and headphone outputs. The market plays host to numerous models of different styles, which work great for any setup or computing device (e.g. desktop, laptop, smartphone) you have in mind. Key players worth mentioning that have cemented their legacy as top computer speaker manufacturers include Edifier, Creative, and Audioengine just to name a few.
You’ll even find gems here from consumer electronics staples like Bose, Harman Kardon, and gaming accessory giant, Razer.
Oh yeah, these are also the first powered monitors on the market that come with HDMI-ARC, allowing you to connect the system directly to any compatible TV for hi-res surround sound. For bargain hunters, there is the Creative Pebble V3, which packs loud sound into a compact design that is perfect for small desks and most media formats (music, video games, movies).
If money is no object, then the KEF LSX is an amazing sound system that doubles as computer speakers and delivers top-notch audio performance and tons of features. Audioengine HD3 Elite bookshelf computer speakers with hi-fi sound Specifications Type of system: 2.0 Drivers: 2.75-inch woofer, 3/4-inch tweeters Inputs: Bluetooth, RCA, USB, 3.5 mm auxiliary Size: 2.75-inch woofer, 3/4-inch tweeters Watts: 30 (per speaker) TODAY’S BEST DEALS Low Stock View at Audio Visual Online View at Electricshop Check Amazon 126 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Crystal clear sound + Built-in DAC and headphone amp + Handsome design + Strong wireless performance Reasons to avoid – Not for bass lovers
You’ll still get to some nice oomph out of the drivers when listening to bass-dominating tracks, but don’t expect to blow a hole through your college dorm roof. Klipsch The Fives Monstrous speakers with monstrous sound Specifications Type of system: 2.1 Drivers: 4.5-inch woofer, 1-inch tweeter Inputs: Bluetooth, HDMI-ARC, OPT, RCA, USB, 3.5 mm auxiliary Size: 18.5 x 17.5 x 13.5 inches Watts: 80 (per speaker) TODAY’S BEST DEALS Low Stock View at Audio Visual Online Prime View at Amazon View at Amazon Reasons to buy + Stellar sound signature + Beautiful design and controls + Plenty of connection options + Can be paired with most turntables Reasons to avoid – Massively sized
Despite no subwoofer, these monitors blast powerful, balanced sound to create an immersive listening experience when enjoying music, movies, sports, and video games. The details in craftsmanship are remarkable as exhibited by the aluminum dials sitting atop the right channel to allow for seamless switching between the numerous connections.
As you can see by the dimensions, The Fives isn’t exactly a pair of computer speakers that rest steadily on any tiny desk, so you’ll definitely want to clear out some space before these arrive on your doorstep. Creative Pebble V3 Best budget computer speakers Specifications Type of system: 2.0 Drivers: 2.25-inch full range Inputs: Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C, 3.5 mm auxiliary Size: 4.8 x 4.7 x 4.6 inches Watts: 16 (W) TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime View at Amazon Reasons to buy + Unbeatable price + Amplified audio mode + Compact enough to travel with and a fit in any space + Bluetooth 5.0 Reasons to avoid – Crackling at max volume – Won’t replace your home theater system Those with distinctive hearing may also notice how well the Pebble V3’s clear dialog audio processing performs when compared to what comes out of your MacBook’s built-in speakers; dialogue-heavy scenes in movies and games sound amazing.
KEF LSX A luxury wireless sound system perfect for computer use Specifications Type of system: 2.0 Drivers: 4.5-inch woofer, 0.75-inch aluminum-dome tweeter Inputs: Bluetooth, OPT, 3.5 mm auxiliary, Ethernet Size: 9.5 x 6.1 x 7.1 inches Watts: 100 TODAY’S BEST DEALS Low Stock View at Audio Visual Online Prime View at Amazon Prime View at Amazon Reasons to buy + Beautiful sound + Impeccable build quality + Loaded with features + Can play music from multiple streaming services Reasons to avoid – Streaming app is finicky Unique details like the Uni-Q driver array, which consists of a 19mm aluminum dome tweeter sitting in the center of a 10cm bass cone, are complementary to the LSX’s appearance as well. Sound is rich with an impactful low end that favors bass-heavy genres, though you can customize this in the EQ settings via Control app. Edifier R1280DB Solid build quality and sound Specifications Type of system: 2.0 Drivers: 4-inch woofer, 13mm tweeters Inputs: Bluetooth, RCA, 3.5 mm auxiliary. Their penchant for build quality is certainly on display, with the speakers featuring a wood grain finish, vinyl wrap, and magnetic shields for protection from surrounding items. More enticing than the design is the sound quality, which is ideal for multiple media formats (e.g. music, movies, and games), thanks to its superb mids and highs. Fluance Ai61 High-powered stereo sound in a bookshelf design Specifications Type of system: 2.0 Drivers: 6.5-inch woofer, 1-inch tweeter Inputs: Bluetooth, RCA, SUB OUT, TOSLINK Optical, USB Type-C Size: 13.1 x 7.8 x 9.2 inches Watts: 120W (per speaker) TODAY’S BEST DEALS Check Amazon Visit Site Reasons to buy + Versatile sound performance + Multiple connection options + Lightweight and sturdy + Basic setup Reasons to avoid – Slightly expensive
These speakers produce loud, powerful bass and impressive stereo separation to hear instruments and vocals distinctly through the left and right channels. Razer Nommo Pro The best computer speakers for gaming Specifications Type of system: 2.1 Drivers: 3-inch Custom woven glass fiber drivers, 0.8-inch silk dome tweeters Inputs: Bluetooth, AUX, USB, Optical Size: 10.64 x 10.64 x 15.37 inches Watts: N/A TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at Maplin UK Prime View at Amazon View at Razer 715 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Immersive sound + Multiple inputs + User-friendly app and software + Striking design Reasons to avoid – Up there in price – Sound modes can make low end overbearing
These speakers boast a loud, wide soundstage that delivers an immersive listening experience perfect for gaming; you’ll be more aware of sneak attacks during Call of Duty: Warzone multiplayer matches and hear players voices clearly over heavy gunfire. Logitech Z407 Affordable desktop speakers that don’t skimp on bass Specifications Type of system: 2.1 Drivers: TBD Inputs: Bluetooth 5.0, micro-USB, 3.5 mm auxiliary Size: 7.87 x 3.70 x 3.35 inches (satellite), 9.45 x 9.21 x 7.09 inches (subwoofer) Watts: 80 (W) TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime View at Amazon View at John Lewis View at Logitech EMEA Reasons to buy + Immersive audio quality + Innovative dial controller + Stellar connectivity + Small size makes for a great desktop setup Reasons to avoid – Not the best for dialogue-related content – Controller is battery powered The speakers are engineered more for music listening, as exemplified by the powerful bass levels, though you can enjoy some crisp sound quality when indulging in Netflix content or podcasts. We would just recommend bringing down the volume and disconnecting the subwoofer, which is more useful for extending the low end and driving your roommates nuts with loud explosions during Call of Duty: Black Ops – Cold War online battles.
Logitech also includes one of the coolest controllers we have tested in the category; it resembles a hockey puck and lets you adjust audio from across the room via dial mechanism. Klipsch R-41PM Legacy sound in a fancy design Specifications Type of system: 2.0 Drivers: 4-inch woofer, 1-inch tweeter Inputs: Bluetooth, RCA, SUB OUT, Optical, USB Audio, AUX input Size: 9.8 by 5.9 by 7.5 inches Watts: 70W TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime View at Amazon View at Amazon Reasons to buy + Wide soundstage with rich bass + Plenty of connection options + Handsome design Reasons to avoid – Stridency at high volume – Bluetooth is clunky
An included sub-out line makes it seamless to add a subwoofer, should you want to boost low frequencies, which isn’t necessary for small settings, but is available nonetheless. Craftsmanship is excellent too, made up of exposed fasteners, low profile magnetic grilles, and a scratch-resistant, textured wood grain vinyl finish for a polished appearance.
Edifier Hecate G5000 Monstrous gaming speakers with RGB lighting Specifications Type of system: N/A Drivers: 4-inch woofer, 0.75-inch tweeter Inputs: Bluetooth, COAX, Optical, USB Audio, AUX input Size: 11 x 7.4 x 8.7 inches Watts: 88W TODAY’S BEST DEALS Visit Site Reasons to buy + Loud, stereo sound with Hi-Res audio support + RGB light mode + Three sound modes Reasons to avoid – Mainly designed for gaming – Too big for most desktop setups
SmartComms software brings advanced features into the mix such as voice detection to automatically mute/unmute yourself and NoiseClean-out to remove unwanted noises from the background in real-time.
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