Tested by 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.
Audioengine A2+ Computer Speakers
Audioengine A2+ Computer Speakers
Pros
- Connectivity options
- Great value
Cons
- Less powerful bass
Key Specs
| Channels | 2 |
|---|---|
| Power | 60 W |
| Frequency Response | 65Hz to 22kHz |
| Connections | 3.5mm, RCA, Bluetooth, USB |
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 CR4-XBT Computer Speaker Sound System
Mackie CR4-XBT Computer Speaker Sound System
Pros
- Slight update to a tried-and-true speaker
- Variety of inputs
Cons
- Design is not for everyone
Key Specs
| Channels | 2 |
|---|---|
| Power | 80 W |
| Frequency Response | 80Hz to 20Khz |
| Connections | 3.5mm, 1/4 in., RCA |
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 DT-3 Speakers for Computers
Monoprice DT-3 Speakers for Computers
Pros
- Good price-performance balance
- Compact
Cons
- Performance degrades at high volumes
Key Specs
| Channels | 2 |
|---|---|
| Power | 50W |
| Frequency Response | 75Hz to 20kHz |
| Connections | 3.5mm, RCA |
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.
Logitech Z906 5.1 Speakers for Computers
Logitech Z906 5.1 Speakers for Computers
Pros
- Includes subwoofer, 5 speakers, and remote
- THX-certified speakers offer plenty of power
Cons
- No Bluetooth or HDMI inputs
Key Specs
| Channels | 5.1 |
|---|---|
| Power | 1000W |
| Frequency Response | 35Hz to 20kHz |
| Connections | TOSLINK optical, RCA, 3.5mm |
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.
Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 Computer Speaker System
Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 Computer Speaker System
Pros
- Big sound with included subwoofer
- Excellent sound across the ranges
Cons
- Limited inputs
Key Specs
| Channels | 2.1 |
|---|---|
| Power | 260W |
| Frequency Response | 31Hz to 20kHz |
| Connections | 3.5mm |
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.
Creative Pebble V2 Computer Speakers
Creative Pebble V2 Computer Speakers
Pros
- Affordable and compact
- Lots of features
Cons
- Requires headphone jack
Key Specs
| Channels | 2 |
|---|---|
| Power | 16W |
| Frequency Response | 100Hz to 17hHz |
| Connections | Bluetooth, Aux, USB |
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.
Razer Leviathan V2 Soundbar Computer Speakers
Pros
- RGB lighting
- Spatial audio
Cons
- Bulky setup
Key Specs
| Channels | 2.1 |
|---|---|
| Power | 65 W |
| Frequency Response | 45Hz to 20kHz |
| Connections | Bluetooth, USB |
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.
Creative Sound Blaster Katana V2X Computer Speaker System
Pros
- Plenty of power
- Lots of connection options
Cons
- Sub can be too tall for some
Key Specs
| Channels | 5.1 |
|---|---|
| Power | 180 W |
| Frequency Response | 50Hz to 20kHz |
| Connections | Bluetooth, eARC, Optical-in, AUX, USB |
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.
Edifier G2000 PC Computer Speakers
Edifier G2000 PC Computer Speakers
Pros
- Surprisingly good sound
- Super compact
Cons
- Frequency response not particularly wide
Key Specs
| Channels | 2 |
|---|---|
| Power | 32W |
| Frequency Response | 98Hz to 20kHz |
| Connections | 3.5m, AUX, USB, Bluetooth 5.1 |
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.
Matt Ng is a writer and editor who specializes in gaming, tech, and movies, so he’s usually writing about the next shiny gadget or triple-A PS5 title. He also has experience as a copy editor within the healthcare sector. When he’s not fawning over the latest MCU release, he can be found on a softball pitch chasing after flyballs.
Paige Szmodis is an editor for Runner’s World, Bicycling, and Popular Mechanics, who researches and writes home, tech, and outdoor product reviews and news.
Stefan is the senior technology editor for Best Products, where he’s been covering the tech industry and testing the latest gadgets since 2015. He is an award-winning editor with more than a decade of experience reporting on and reviewing consumer tech products, especially smartphones, tablets, laptops, and audio gear like headphones, earbuds, speakers, and soundbars. Stefan was previously the U.S. editor for GSMArena.com. His writing can also be found in Popular Mechanics.
