When you buy a computer — whether it’s a desktop or laptop — good sound is one of the things that’s typically missing. These built-in speakers aren’t ideal for listening to music or watching videos — they can only play so loud and tend to be seriously lacking in the bass department.
The good news — the market is completely saturated with computer speakers that offer quality sound. Also, we’ll update this list periodically as more laptop and desktop computer speaker options hit the market. They don’t deliver huge sound and they’re light on the bass, but they’re surprisingly decent for their low price. We like the R1280DB because it has all the features you want, including an optical input and Bluetooth capabilities in a fairly compact package that delivers very good sound for a decent price.
Amazon In terms of sound for the money, it’s hard to beat Creative’s Pebble Plus 2.1, which includes a sub for around $50 and sometimes $40. Don’t expect huge volume (it is powered by USB after all), but it delivers better sound than you might think for the money. David Carnoy/CNET The Logitech Z407 is a compact system with a small subwoofer that doesn’t exactly have a premium feel (it’s an all-plastic affair and the satellite speakers are quite light), but it’s attractive and has some nice features. It comes with a hockey puck-sized controller (it’s powered by two AAA batteries) that doubles as a Bluetooth transceiver between any Bluetooth-enabled audio device and the speaker system. You can skip tracks forward and back by tapping on the top of the puck and turning the dial to control volume. David Carnoy/CNET The most recent addition to the Audioengine family, the A1 speakers sound good for their compact size, particularly in terms of their clarity.
For $269, it delivers excellent sound in a compact, attractively minimalist design, which is why it appears to be so popular at the moment. That ability to produce some bass that has some kick to it should indeed appeal to gamers who like having some visceral impact from in-game explosions to add to the game’s immersion. David Carnoy/CNET Harman Kardon’s SoundSticks have been around for 20 years and have always been a favorite of Mac users because, well, they — and their transparent aesthetics — were marketed from the get-go to owners of the early iMacs. The SoundSticks 4 offers some design changes over earlier iterations, particularly to the subwoofer, which has a cleaner, sleeker look without the plastic funnel inside.
Like the previous version, there’s an analog cable that you plug it into the headphone jack or auxiliary output on your computer or another device.
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 computer speakers in 2021
Music lovers may require a system that pumps out dynamic, well-balanced sound to enjoy every detail of a recording. They’ll produce better-sounding music, streamed videos, games, calls, podcasts, eBooks, and any other audio platform you can think of. 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 Prime View at Amazon View at Amazon View at Walmart 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 Prime View at Amazon View at Walmart Prime Low Stock View at Amazon 5 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ 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.
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 View at Walmart Check Amazon 2 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ 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 View at Best Buy View at Walmart Prime View at Amazon 2 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 View at Walmart View at Dell Check Amazon 2 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ 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.
More expensive, more elaborate systems tend to offer richer treble, deeper bass and more substantial vocals. 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.
Best premium Bluetooth speakers that offer the best sound quality
Its compact form factor and striking design make for an attractive Bluetooth speaker. It is perfect for outdoor settings and features like water resistance, wireless charging and 10 hours playback time make it a great option. It comes with a waterproof, dustproof and shockproof design that makes it a good option for pool parties and beaches. It comes with Alexa built-in, allowing users to check the weather, make calls, set alarms and more with voice commands.
It supports Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing users to play music, pay bills, set reminders and more with voice commands.
Connect Your Portable Bluetooth Speaker to Laptop or Computer
If you don’t see the LED blinking, you may have to seek further instruction and help from the original documentation that came with the device or inquire at the manufacturer’s website. If you require assistance, the Doss Soundbox Pro makes the connection process effortless while providing you with a superior sound experience at the same time. Then select the Connect button for your portable Bluetooth waterproof speakers in the Devices list.
There are a few things you can do if pairing your device does not go as smoothly as planned, such as rebooting your laptop or computer and the speakers, removing obstructions between the speakers and the laptop, turning your Bluetooth on and off again, or using the recommended pairing technique provided in the original purchase documentation. The Doss SoundBox Pro dual 8W full range Drivers and passive radiator will revolutionize your sound experience and take your active lifestyle to the next level. The Doss Soundbox Pro will also enable you to enjoy non-stop music for up to 20 hours at a time.
The Best Computer Speakers for 2021
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.
The Best Bluetooth and Wireless Speakers for 2021
Big, small, portable, expensive, cheap, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi…the sheer amount of choice can seem overwhelming. Bluetooth is a point-to-point wireless system, pairing a transmitter (your phone or computer) with a receiver (your speaker) to play music. It’s very direct and easy to set up, and can stream pretty high-quality music thanks to technological advancements that have greatly improved audio fidelity over what it was a few years ago. It can also integrate into your home network, so you can easily play audio from any device connected to your Wi-Fi without pairing anything. It’s worth noting that the new Sonos Move supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth streaming, so compatibility isn’t an issue at all. They let you easily stream from your iPhone or iPad at better quality than Bluetooth, but if you’re an Android user, you won’t find much utility in it.
Like Chromecast, setting up multi-room Echo audio is performed through the same app as your voice assistant and smart home devices, only it’s all Alexa instead of Google. These usually aren’t as complex or robust as Wi-Fi multi-room systems, but they’re a simple option that can provide an alternative to using your home network to stream music.
Larger speakers generally offer fuller sound and richer bass, but they can be more expensive and are often not portable. These speakers are obviously not portable at all, but if you want a centerpiece sound system for your living room or office they’re likely your best choice.
For a speaker to be portable, it needs to both be small and light enough to easily carry around, and be equipped with a battery so it can run without being plugged in. Since Wi-Fi speakers rely on a separate network to enable multi-speaker and multi-room audio playback, they’re rarely portable.
Look for speakers with IPX ratings and guarantees of water and shock resistance if you want to carry them around to the beach, the lake, the slopes, or the sewers. Our guide to IP ratings explains what those numbers mean, so you can know whether your speaker can handle getting dunked in the pool, or if it simply will stay intact in a light drizzle.
Big bass isn’t for everyone, but unless your speaker is downright tiny, it should be able to reproduce low frequencies accurately without distorting at high volumes. Clarity is more important than sheer power, and a balanced, clean sound should be your goal when shopping for a speaker.
They also generally support third-party skills that let you do anything from order pizza to play trivia games. The most prominent first-party voice assistant speakers like the Amazon Echo and the Google Home don’t have batteries. Don’t be afraid to look for similar speakers to the ones on this list, either; a number of the options included here have solid predecessors that you can now find for much less since they’ve been replaced.
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 Prime View at Amazon View at Crutchfield View at Walmart 5 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ 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 Best Buy View at Walmart 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.
That subwoofer is surprisingly powerful for its size as well, producing a good amount of rumble for those intense game and movie moments.
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 View at Staples View at Walmart Prime View at Amazon 2 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 Walmart Check Amazon 2 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ 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 View at Amazon View at Walmart 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 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 Prime View at Amazon Prime View at Amazon View at Walmart 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 View at Walmart Prime View at Amazon View at Lowe’s Reasons to buy + Affordable compared to the competition + Great sound quality for the price Reasons to avoid – Base can sound distorted at higher levels 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
Music lovers may require a system that pumps out dynamic, well-balanced sound to enjoy every detail of a recording. They’ll produce better-sounding music, streamed videos, games, calls, podcasts, eBooks, and any other audio platform you can think of.
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 Prime View at Amazon View at Amazon View at Walmart 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 Prime View at Amazon View at Walmart Prime Low Stock View at Amazon 5 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ 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.
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 View at Walmart Check Amazon 2 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ 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 View at Best Buy View at Walmart Prime View at Amazon 2 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 View at Walmart View at Dell Check Amazon 2 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ 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.
More expensive, more elaborate systems tend to offer richer treble, deeper bass and more substantial vocals. 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.
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 Prime View at Amazon View at Crutchfield Low Stock View at Walmart 141 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. 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 Prime View at Amazon View at Crutchfield View at Walmart 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. Audioengine A2+ Superb computer speakers that are hard to come by Specifications Type of system : 2.0 Drivers: 2.75-inch woofer, 0.75-inch tweeter Inputs: RCA, USB, 3.5 mm auxiliary Size: 6 x 5.25 x 4 inches Watts: 15 (per speaker) TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime View at Amazon View at Walmart Prime Low Stock View at Amazon 5 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Crisp treble, balanced midrange, and bass + Wide soundfield + Compact and stylish + Useful outputs Reasons to avoid – Volume control placed in the back 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 Razer Check Amazon 179 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 Walmart View at Best Buy 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 Check Amazon Visit Site 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.
Best computer speakers in 2021
Don’t get us wrong, we love a good headset, but it can be a very different gaming experience having two tweeters blasting you with noise from all angles and a subwoofer shaking you to bits. You’ll hear every toe-tapping beat in Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy or stray gunshot in Hunt: Showdown, and even if you want to jam out some of your favorite game soundtrack tunes after a long, hard day, the best computer speakers will set you right. Like ambient TV backlighting products, the software takes user-defined areas of the screen and extends the colors outwards to create a very immersive lighting experience. Since a good portion of this effect relies on the rear-facing LEDs, the speakers need to be positioned right beside your display with their back against a wall to get the best result. The low-end differences can be minimal, but the Creative Pebble Plus speakers stand apart from the competition with their big sound despite the compact size. The large cylindrical speakers look a bit like the engines of the USS Enterprise but provide excellent sound and deep bass.
It may not match the sound quality and feature set of the Logitech G560, but the Nommo remains a smart choice for PC gamers who want a pair of great-sounding speakers without a sub-woofer assuming you have the desk space. Creative Sound Blaster Katana V2 Soundbar Best gaming soundbar and subwoofer Specifications Weight: 3.35 lbs Sound Bar 14.1 (Sub Woofer) Size: / 23.6 x 3.74 x 2.44 inches (Sound Bar) 5.9 x 14.4 x 14.4 inches (Sub) Drivers: 2.5″ (63.5mm) Upfiring Midbass Drivers, 1.3″ (34mm) High-excursion Tweeter, 5.25″ (133mm) Subwoofer Driver Supported Connectivity: Optical, 3.5 mm, Bluetooth, NFC, USB-C, AUX TODAY’S BEST DEALS Visit Site Reasons to buy + Versatile + Well designed + Plenty of connections Reasons to avoid – Bluetooth issues – Expensive for a soundbar – Large for some desks
It’s small enough to sit comfortably on your desk without taking it over but also loud enough to easily be featured as your living room sound system (thanks to its subwoofer). LG UltraGear GP9 Best wireless speaker Specifications Weight: 3.35 lbs Size: 14.8″ x 3.3″ x 4.2″ Drivers: Tweeter 20mm x 2, Woofer Unit 2″ x 2 Supported Connectivity: Optical, 3.5 mm, Bluetooth, NFC, USB-C, AUX Battery Life: 5 hours Features: DTS, built-in microphone, EQ, app support TODAY’S BEST DEALS Visit Site Reasons to buy + Wireless + Great Surround Sound + Good battery life Reasons to avoid – $500 – Microphone needs work
The tiny three-pound, 15-inch speaker, does a fantastic job of producing virtual 3D surround sound using its FPS mode setting. If it is late and you really can’t blast audio, the speaker will output 7.1 virtual surround sound to any headset you plug into it with a 3.5mm cable.
It plays nice with multiple devices and consoles, and an easy-to-understand smartphone app does all your customizations like RGB lighting and EQ options. Another feature you won’t find in other entries on the list is that this Bluetooth speaker has a built-in mic for voice chat. However, I did find myself having some difficulties trying to parse between voice chat and the sounds of gunfire and zombie death gargles during more hectic sessions of Back 4 Blood.
When things get wild, it’s hard to hear your teammates let alone try to have a conversation with them without feeling like you need to scream to be heard despite its in-game sound-canceling working its best.
It’s not always about looks though, the MR1s does not disappoint in the sound department and deliver mighty powerful audio and manage to hit you with some strong bass without needing a subwoofer (though you can plug one in). There are no custom EQs or preset game modes though I’d argue that these punchy speakers already do a great job and don’t need to be tweaked.
The Ruark MR1 Bluetooth speakers’ superior sound quality and design make it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to jazz up their workspace despite a lack of gaming features. You could hook such a system up to your PC too, and find decent support for such a configuration, but we’re hesitant to recommend such a setup due to the sheer number of wires involved around a single desk.
Some companies will tout virtual 5.1 to make up for the lack of physical speakers, often at the expense of sound quality, including Windows’ Sonic function.
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