These Computer Speakers Produce Killer Audio for Your Desktop or Laptop

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

You can only get so far with built-in computer speakers. Because they’re so small, even high-end laptop speakers often have quiet, subpar sound and generally underwhelming bass, lacking the oomph necessary for an immersive music-listening, movie-watching, and gaming experience. That’s where a great pair of desktop speakers makes all the difference, offering louder sounds, boomier bass, and crispy clarity.

Compared to their bookshelf or tower brethren, computer speakers are generally smaller and more self-contained because they’re designed to sound great when you’re sitting at your desk. Choosing a set with a subwoofer, or the option to add one later, compensates for the speaker’s smaller size and gives you bigger, room-filling sound.

There’s a lot that differentiates the best computer speakers from models that are just so-so. Read on for our top picks, along with advice on what to consider before you buy.

The Best Computer Speakers

• Best Overall: Audioengine A2+

• Best Value: Mackie CR4-XBT

• Most Versatile: Monoprice DT-3

• Best Surround Sound: Logitech Z906
  

• Easiest Setup: Klipsch ProMedia 2.1
  

What to Consider

Setup

Most of the general rules for buying audio gear also apply to computer speakers. Specs like peak power and driver size offer some idea of their capability, but what’s most important is how the speakers sound, which can depend on several factors—even including often overlooked things like how you position them on your desk.

Speakers shouldn’t be too close together or too close to a wall, nor should they face straight ahead. To cover the basics, space them out as far as you can on your desk and then make sure they’re pointed at your ears by angling them slightly inward and upward, or mounting them on some stands or the wall.

Whereas speakers for an entire room should be set up to maximize sound in a large area, computer speakers should be aimed toward where the listener sits or stands while using the computer.

Channels

The most basic computer speakers have two channels, denoted by the first number in a speaker system’s spec—so, in this case, 2.0. And if there’s a subwoofer for extra bass, that’s known as a 2.1 system—the 1 after the decimal indicates the single subwoofer. If you plan on setting up your speakers around your room for immersive surround sound, a 5.1-channel system is the way to go, which has five small speakers and a subwoofer.

Naturally, the more complicated the system, the more expensive the speakers—and the more thought you’ll need to put into their setup.

Frequency Range

All speakers feature a wide frequency range, which indicates the variation of sound they are able to output—the lower frequency number indicates bass, while the higher number denotes treble. Most speakers feature a range of 45 to 20,000 Hertz, and the human range of hearing is roughly 20 to 20,000 Hertz.

Watts

The wattage measures the amount of power the speakers can handle, and it’s a rough measure of how loud they can go. Many speaker specs mention RMS watts, which is the wattage the speaker can handle continuously. Contrastingly, specs may also reference peak power, which is the maximum output a speaker can produce without it blowing. For most computer speakers, peak wattage of 50 watts is plenty.

Connectivity

Most basic computer speakers simply plug into the 3.5-millimeter audio jack on your laptop or desktop. However, more expensive speakers offer USB and Bluetooth options to connect to other devices with ease. Additionally, an RCA input can accommodate a turntable or other piece of audio gear, and an optical port means you can use the speakers with your TV.

Audiophiles may wish to have the purity of uncompressed sound, so that means going for a wired connection. If you prefer minimizing clutter and wires, opt for a wireless option.

Control Methods

Many computer speakers have a series of simple control knobs on the console. Some offer additional wired control boxes or remotes for ease of use. You can usually control Bluetooth or direct input options using your computer, but this depends on the model you choose and how you set it up.

How We Selected

In addition to our own experience testing computer speaker models over the years, we relied on Senior Technology Editor Stefan Vazharov to vet these picks, as he’s tested and reviewed many speakers over the years (including a few on this list). We rated them according to their form factor, speaker performance, connection options, features, and price.

With warm, powerful sound and easy setup, the A2+ is an evolutionary leap above what your laptop speakers can offer. Of course, you can get even better-sounding speakers if you’re willing to step up in price, but these are tough to beat—and the pair is reasonably priced considering the high quality.

Featuring a timeless, rounded-edge design, the A2+ speakers’ real strength is how many ways you can connect to them. The Bluetooth, 3.5-millimeter audio jack, and dual audio input connectivity means they’ll work no matter what your desk looks like. The only downside is the low end might not be throaty enough for some.

Mackie’s CR4-XBT speakers are technically studio monitors—the kind that musicians and audio professionals generally use to get the most accurate, balanced sound possible for recording purposes. But they’re also ideal for use as everyday computer speakers. The new CR4-XBT is a modest update to the company’s well-reviewed CR4BT series and keeps everything that made those other speakers so popular.

They have the same durable build and good connectivity, with an updated all-wood cabinet featuring a new brushed-metal front panel. Since they’re not strictly computer speakers, they’re more versatile than many other options and include 3.5-millimeter, 1/4-inch, and RCA inputs in addition to Bluetooth connectivity.

Monoprice is known for offering dependable, high-quality tech at an affordable price, and the company’s range of speakers falls right in line with that. There are a number of different desktop models to choose from, but the DT-3 is one of the most affordable. The speakers are compact and look like a higher-end piece of gear than their price tag suggests. They offer all the versatility you could ask for, plus clear, rich sound. The tradeoff is that there’s some loss of clarity when you crank up the volume.

Surround sound speakers may not be for everyone, but if you’re a gamer or watch movies on your computer, they can provide directional sounds you can’t get with many dual channel speakers. That might indicate where an in-game enemy is based on their footsteps or where that pesky collectable item might be hiding. Logitech has a long track record of well-regarded speakers in this area, and the Z906 system has sat at the top of the company’s lineup for years.

The 5.1 setup, including five speakers and a subwoofer, lets you connect up to six different devices at once. This means there’s no need for constant plugging and unplugging devices such as your turntable, hi-fi, PC and smartphone. Both the central console and remote control allow for easy operation whether you’re at your desk or sitting on the couch. With 1,000 watts of peak power, that’s enough for any home cinema setup, while its bass response as low as 35 Hertz delivers plenty of primal rumble.

Another top performer, Klipsch’s THX-certified ProMedia hasn’t changed much over the years, aside from adding a Bluetooth-equipped model. Yet, it remains one of the best options for anyone looking for big sound from a relatively compact speaker and subwoofer setup. It has only a standard 3.5-millimeter jack and pass-through for headphones, but it delivers superb sound across the spectrum, from crystal clear vocals, deep and thumping bass and excellent high to mid-range notes. A great option if you don’t mind the lack of connection options. Additionally, its big box subwoofer is a little awkward to place.

If you want to get a solid pair of budget speakers, consider the stylish Pebble V3 from Creative. They are surprisingly punchy for their size, with 2.25 inches of full-range drivers delivering 16 watts of peak power. Creative also improved the audio processing so that spoken audio comes through more clearly, which means you’ll never miss a word in your favorite podcast again.

Their orb-like design is also very pleasing, and onboard Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity helps cut down on wires. All this is available for a wallet friendly $35, which is ridiculously good value.

For RGB-laden gaming dens, the Leviathan V2 fits right in with its own customizable 18-zone chroma light bar. Thanks to THX Spatial Audio trickery, using this 2.1 bar and sub system feels like you’re running a 7.1 surround sound system. This boosts the immersion of atmospheric games like Alan Wake 2 and the Resident Evil 4 Remake, with an enhanced soundstage that thrusts you in the middle of the action. The quality of the sound is great, too, with rumbling bass and mid and high notes delivered with clarity.

The Leviathan V2 is great for dedicated gaming, but it perhaps lacks the refinement and frequency response range for die-hard music aficionados. The soundbar and down-firing sub are also quite bulky, so ensure you have ample room in your setup.

For a truly versatile soundbar with impressive punch, the Katana V2X has it all. Featuring a compact single speaker bar with RGB lighting and huge subwoofer—seriously, it’s as tall as some PC towers—this system delivers immersive, enriching sound. Even at high volumes, it’s great for dialog, casual music and bass-heavy gaming.

It also features plenty of connection options, so you can switch between your console, PC or TV with ease, thanks to the remote control. The only downside? It’s not a wireless system, so you’ll need to figure out a decent cable trail from your soundbar to the tall sub, as most people will inevitably need to place it on the floor.

For those who need a compact speaker setup without compromising on sound, Edifier has a decent track record. And the G2000 fits right within that. Don’t let their diminutive 2.75-inch drivers fool you; these palm-sized speakers deliver a rich, full sound. Even without a dedicated subwoofer delivering true bass (which can be a compact speaker’s Achilles heel), the G2000 does surprisingly well across the low, mid, and high ranges.

Naturally, these speakers won’t be able to compete with bigger and more expensive rival systems for volume and refinement, but for around $100, they offer excellent value for money and a compact yet full sound. If that wasn’t enough, there’s Bluetooth for wireless connectivity and even an RGB lighting system.

If you’re relying on your laptop’s built-in speakers or still hanging onto an old pair of computer speakers that have seen you through your last few PCs, it might be worth considering an upgrade to enjoy some better sound. A good pair of computer speakers doesn’t have to cost a ton or take up a load of desk space to deliver sound that can far surpass even the best laptop speakers, and make your daily music listening or gaming all that much more enjoyable.

The most basic computer speakers simply plug into the 3.5mm audio jack on your laptop or desktop and don’t offer much else in the way of connectivity. But many now also come equipped with USB inputs or Bluetooth to accommodate mobile devices, along with other more traditional inputs like RCA and optical that can make them well-suited for a range of uses beyond your computer -- paired with a turntable, for instance, or used as part of a modest home theater setup.

How We Chose These Speakers

To choose these computer speakers, we relied on our own experience with numerous different computer speakers over the years, and broadly surveyed various sources including customer reviews and trusted publications like PC World, The Master Switch, and PC Gamer.

—Best Sound—

Audioengine A2+

You can of course get even better sounding speakers if you’re willing to step up in price, but this pair from Audioengine is tough to beat if you’re looking to keep things somewhat reasonably priced. The audiophile-minded folks at The Master Switch say they have “amazing audio and build quality,” and they aren’t lacking in features either, with Bluetooth, 3.5mm, RCA and USB inputs -- not to mention your choice of black, white or red color options. As a number of reviews mention, however, you’ll want to make sure you angle them upward to get the best sound quality (Audioengine sells some matching stands for $29 extra).

—Most Versatile—

Klipsch R-15PM

Klipsch’s speakers are always a solid (if pricey) choice for any home theater or audio setup, and the company’s R-15PM powered monitors are among its most versatile. While they might be a bit big if you have limited desk space, they make for great computer speakers, and can be used for a range of other purposes as well. In addition to all the usual inputs (including Bluetooth), the speakers also have a phono input that’ll accommodate a turntable without a built-in preamp, and they come with a remote control for added convenience. You can also add a separate subwoofer if you’re looking to get even bigger sound out of them further down the road.

—Best Value—

Creative Pebble

If you aren’t looking to make a big investment in a pair of computer speakers, or maybe are just looking for a second set for an office or workspace, you can still get a lot of bang for the buck with something like Creative’s Pebble speakers. PC World found they produced better sound than most speakers costing twice as much, and they have the added advantage of being USB-powered, which means you don’t have to worry about a separate power adapter. Features are expectedly sparse otherwise but, at just under 4.5-inches in diameter, the orb-like speakers won’t take up much desk space, and you can choose from black or white color options.

—Best Surround—

Logitech Z906

A set of surround sound computer speakers isn’t for everyone, but if you’re a gamer or watch a lot of movies on your computer -- and have the space to set them up -- they can provide some great results you just can’t get with two speakers. Logitech’s speakers have long been a standout in this area, and its Z906 speaker system has remained at the top of the company’s line for a number of years. The 5.1 setup can accommodate up to six different devices at once, and includes both a central console and a remote control that’ll let you easily control them whether you’re at your desk or sitting on the couch.

—Best With a Subwoofer—

Klipsch ProMedia 2.1

Another standby in computer speakers, Klipsch’s THX-certified ProMedia 2.1 speakers may not have changed over the years (apart from the addition of a Bluetooth-equipped model), but they remain one of the best options for anyone looking for big sound from a relatively compact 2.1 setup. Inputs are more limited than some other speakers in their price range -- only a standard 3.5mm jack, plus a pass-through for headphones -- but they won’t disappoint otherwise if that’s not a dealbreaker.

—Best for Gaming—

Logitech G560

It’s no secret that gamers love their LED backlighting, and that can also extend to your speakers if you’re so inclined. PC Gamer found Logitech’s G560 speakers to be more than just a gimmick, though, and calls them the one RGB product that “might actually impact your PC gaming experience.” That’s due to Logitech’s screen sampler software, which lets the RGB lighting match the color on your screen and project that color onto the wall behind your monitor. Thankfully, they sound great as well, and boast a virtual surround mode that PC Gamer found to be particularly impressive.

You Might Also Like

• The Do’s and Don’ts of Using Painter’s Tape

• The Best Portable BBQ Grills for Cooking Anywhere

• Can a Smart Watch Prolong Your Life?