The best computer speakers can turn your desktop PC into an immersive experience you might have otherwise overlooked. While built-in speakers in a gaming laptop or PC monitor are probably okay for basic audio, you’re not going to get the cues you need in-game that could turn the tide of the match. Being able to hear footsteps, the crumple of leaves, or an enemy reloading could make the difference between life and death.
TL;DR – These are the Best Computer Speakers:
- Klipsch The Fives
- Edifier R1280Ts
- Creative Pebble Pro
- Edifier S350DB
- Creative Sound Blaster Katana V2
- Razer Leviathan V2 Pro
- AudioEngine A5+
- JBL 306P MkII Powered Studio Monitors
- SteelSeries Arena 9
So, if you’re ready to upgrade your built-in speakers to dedicated computer speakers, you’ve come to the right place. Many computer speakers come with a woofer and tweeter, giving you a range of audio frequencies that you can’t expect from the best PC headsets. But, there are a variety of different types of speakers you can choose from including the best gaming speakers and best desktop speakers.
1. Klipsch The Fives
Best Computer Speakers
Pros:
- Crisp, clear, rich sound
- Lots of connectivity options
Cons:
- Expensive
Klipsch’s The Fives expertly blends the best of both worlds. These speakers come with a wide variety of input options that fall in line with the modern-day soundbar. But, instead of the sound being produced from a singular piece of equipment, the Fives achieves perfect stereo separation that has long been a custom characteristic of a great pair of speakers. It has plenty of power to compliment your computer with room-filling sound, thanks to ultra-low noise amplifiers specifically built to maximize performance without needing an external amp. You’ll enjoy the crisp, nuanced audio with rich bass, whether you’re rocking out to your favorite songs, watching videos on Youtube, or PC gaming.
The Fives aren’t just for computers, though. As we mentioned, these speakers pack loads of connectivity, including Bluetooth, HDMI-ARC, Optical, and Phono, so they’re versatile enough to work alongside everything from turntables to TVs and smartphones. Additionally, The Fives exudes a classic aesthetic, taking inspiration from vintage Klipsch speakers. The drivers are enclosed in a hand-crafted wood cabinet that’s available in either a walnut veneer or matte black finish. And if you’re searching for more low end than The Fives’ 4.5” long-throw woofers are capable of, you can add a powered subwoofer to the mix.
2. Edifier R1280Ts
Best Budget Computer Speakers
Pros:
- Balanced audio
- Great value for money
Cons:
- Prone to distort at max volume
Think of the Edifier R1280Ts as the bargain bin version of The Fives. In principle, Edifier’s powered speakers follow the same wavelength as Klipsch. They’re a stereo pair of capable, powered speakers that offer the ability to add a subwoofer into the mix later on down the line. That said, they don’t quite have the power or detail to produce the same immaculate sound that The Fives are known for. And if you crank them to full volume, you’ll hear audio distortion.
To be fair, the R1280Ts are a fraction of the cost, coming in at around $120, though these bookshelf speakers look higher-end with a classy wooden enclosure. And if you’re worried about setup, it's relatively straightforward with average speaker wires and then an RCA to 3.5 mm jack —which is included— to plug into your computer. Otherwise, you’re all set to get listening as a preamp is built-in. Plus, Edifier’s speakers have a Soundfield Spacializer, meant to simulate a larger soundstage by sending opposite signals to each driver to eliminate interference and improve separation between the two. So, while they may not possess the prowess of the best speakers on our list, the R1280Ts are plenty capable for anyone hoping to get the best bang for their buck.
3. Creative Pebble Pro
Best Ultra Cheap Computer Speakers
Pros:
- RGB lighting
- Angled drivers
Cons:
- Separate adapter needed for wall outlet
Although the Creative Pebble V3 speakers are slightly cheaper than the Creative Pebble Pro, you do get a lot more. And, considering the small price you pay, the upgrade is worthwhile. These budget-friendly speakers come with built-in RGB lighting, which is a really nice added touch. Compared to the V3, the Pro version also comes with upgraded drivers, producing incredibly stereo sound at an affordable price.
The 2.25-inch drivers deliver a frequency range of 80Hz to 20kHz. If you power them up via your computer, you can expect 20W peak power, or if you purchase a separate PD adapter, these computer speakers can reach a hefty 60W peak. Looking for a bit of bass? The Creative Pebble Pro produce a powerful thump, but if you crank up the volume to much, you’ll likely get a little vibration. Mids and highs are clear and crisp - perfect enough for budget-friendly speakers that cost less than $60.
4. Edifier S350DB
Best Stereo Speakers for PCs
Pros:
- Powerful bass
- Stylish design
Cons:
- No bass/treble controls on remote
Coming in as the first speaker package in this guide to feature a powered subwoofer, the Edifier S350DB represent an option for those who want some serious thump added to their computer straight out of the box. The subwoofer itself is ported to help get the most impactful bass possible out of your system. To complement all that low end, the S350DB features compact titanium dome tweeters designed to deliver incredibly clear sound at higher frequencies, regardless of the content source. And you can connect to plenty of sources thanks to aux, RCA, optical, and coaxial inputs along with Bluetooth 5.0 support.
The Edifier S350DB won’t offer the same precision found in Klipsch’s The Fives, and they won’t be nearly as cheaply as the Creative Pebble V3 or even Edifier R1280Ts, for that matter. What the S350DB does, though, is provide the most complete package of the bunch while managing to fall in the middle of the pack when it comes to price. You get a stylish wooden veneer on the bookshelf speakers alongside knobs to control volume, bass, and treble, making adjustments to audio a breeze. There’s even a puck-style remote to power on the speaker, adjust the volume, change/pause tracks, and even swap between inputs. So if a full frequency range of sound and ample functionality matters to you, the S350DB is a compelling option to consider for your computer setup.
5. Creative Sound Blaster Katana V2
Best Surround Sound Speakers for PCs
Pros:
- Quality design and build
- Brilliant audio
Cons:
- There are cheaper (and better) options
The Sound Blaster Katana V2 takes the cake when it comes to surround sound. The system is backed by a tri-amplified design working in unison with Creative’s multicore DSP to properly distribute sound between the Katana V2’s array of midrange drivers, tweeters, and subwoofer. What that all boils down to is a 5.1-channel sound that you can feel while playing games, as well as high-quality audio that works exceptionally well with other content like music and movies. It's not a bad deal for around $250.
The Katana V2 also has a collection of impressive features providing even more value. Scout Mode focuses on the detection of sound, bringing important gameplay moments to life. SXFI Battle Mode puts you in the moment, allowing you to hear directionality in gameplay, such as where a gunshot is coming from in a first-person shooter. There’s also Night Mode for times when your sound needs to be less dynamic, or plug in your preferred set of headphones for continued high-volume listening. In short, this soundbar has the technology to instantly turn your setup into an incredibly capable soundstage. Beyond that, you get loads of connectivity options, including Bluetooth, HDMI ARC, optical, and USB-A, so you can pair the speaker with your PC and pretty much any of your other devices. A programable remote control and RGB lighting complete top off this compact soundbar setup.
6. Razer Leviathan V2 Pro
Best Soundbar for PCs
Pros:
- Easy-to-use controls
- Powerful sound
Cons:
- Limited to USB and Bluetooth
The Razer Leviathan V2 Pro delivers impactful sound with booming bass, even at low levels guaranteeing an immersive listening experience in a compact package. This 5.1 speaker system uses just a soundbar full of RGB lighting that’ll sit right on your desk and a subwoofer which can rest comfortably under it. It’s relatively simple to connect, offering a USB-C port for your PC, Bluetooth 5.2 to pair wirelessly with other devices, and a headphone jack, though we wish an HDMI made the cut considering the $400 price tag.
Once connected, you’ll enjoy the Leviathan V2 Pro’s wide sound stage and impressive volume, but you may lose control of the highs when it’s too loud. However, Razer’s Synapse App lets you easily adjust EQ settings and swap between audio modes to best fit whatever media you’re consuming at that time. It also has THX-certified digital surround sound, letting you use sound cues to place enemies in a game, while a tiny infrared camera allows for AI head tracking that’s a bit gimmicky.
7. AudioEngine A5+
Best Bluetooth Computer Speakers
Pros:
- Very good sound quality
- Remote included
Cons:
- No AC power port
If you’re looking to make the most out of Bluetooth connectivity, the AudioEngine A5+ are for you. Armed with Bluetooth and codec support that includes AAC, aptX, and aptX HD, these speakers are built to effortlessly stream high-resolution audio from your preferred device. And with the help of their built-in 24-bit DAC, these speakers can easily slide in as part of a computer setup. Or a TV. Or a turntable. Or anything else that can pass audio to these powerful bookshelf speakers. The bottom line is, even though the A5+ put music first, they’re wildly capable speakers for whatever type of media you choose to throw at them.
The AudioEngine A5+ are the option on this list that comes closest to (and by some accounts surpasses) our top pick, Klipsch The Fives. And that’s thanks to the pure fidelity of these speakers. You get deep bass and clear sound no matter the frequency. And if you decide you want more on the low end, you can always add a subwoofer to the mix, though the two bookshelf speakers provide plenty of stereo separation and sound great on their own.
8. JBL 306P MkII Powered Studio Monitors
Best Audio Editing Computer Speakers
Pros:
- Strong performance for the price
- Good overall audio balance
Cons:
- Not very stylish
Traditionally, studio monitors designed for music and sound mixing are anything but cheap. The saving grace here is the JBL 306P MkII Powered Studio Monitors, which brings studio-quality sound to the masses for a touch over $300. You’re getting a super dynamic soundstage with impressive bass response. And the audio reveals itself in a way that makes editing relatively simple.
These two bookshelf speakers are outfitted with features precisely engineered to enhance the studio experience. JBL’s Image Control Waveguide, for instance, pinpoints a room-friendly sweet spot to help you experience improved depth and ambiance with the recordings you’re working on. The JBL 306P MkII’s Slip Stream low-frequency port works alongside the monitors’ woofers and low-frequency transducers to replicate the necessary bass levels, which can be utterly essential when it comes to audio editing. As a cherry on the audio editing sundae, these speakers are approved for use near magnetically sensitive equipment. Basically, these monitors are tailor-made to be the heart of your audio editing experience without breaking the bank.
SteelSeries Arena 9
Best Gaming Speakers
Pros:
- Immersive audio
- Lots of connectivity options
Cons:
- RGB lighting is too tame
Almost double the cost of the SteelSeries Arena 7, the SteelSeries Arena 9 are a firm upgrade if you’re looking for the best PC speakers for gaming. Here you get six speaker cabinets including a dual-driver center speaker, two front speakers, two rear speakers, and a downward-firing subwoofer. The rear speakers are of course mountable since this is a 5.1 system, allowing you to get down and dirty with some beefy surround sound.
The control pod with its OLED display makes it easy to control your audio options. You can choose different inputs, pair devices, adjust EQ settings, and mess around with the RGB lighting effects. Much like the SteelSeries Arena 7 speakers, however, the RGB lighting could be brighter to make more of an impact. But, lighting aside, audio is where this speaker set really shines. Hear every footstep, an enemy’s heartbeat, and know exactly what’s going on around you in the moment. Just be sure you place your speakers in the right place to squeeze every ounce of juice from these bad boys.
How to Pick the Best Computer Speakers
Choosing the perfect computer speakers can be a real game-changer for your audio experience, whether you're jamming to your favorite tunes, watching movies, or gaming.
To help you choose the best speakers, first think about how you'll be using them. Are they mainly for casual listening, gaming, or perhaps professional audio work? This can help you determine the type and quality of speakers you need.
Of course, sound quality is paramount! Look for speakers that offer clear, balanced audio with good bass response. If possible, try to listen to them in person or check out reviews to get a sense of their sound profile.
Since you’ll be looking for the best computer speakers, consider the size and design of the speakers in relation to your desk or workspace. Do you have limited space, or are you looking for something more compact? Bookshelf speakers, soundbars, or even compact satellite speakers could be great options depending on your needs. Similarly, you’ll need to decide whether you prefer wired or wireless speakers. Wireless speakers offer more flexibility and a cleaner look, but wired speakers often provide a more stable connection and can be more budget-friendly.
There are lots of things to think about here, including connectivity options, budget, and additional features. Gamers might want RGB lighting, for example, or audiophiles might look for built-in controls, subwoofers, etc. When picking the best computer speakers, if you feel completely lost, it’s a safe bet to look for reputable brands known for producing high-quality speakers. Don't forget to read reviews and testimonials from other users to get insights into the reliability and performance of the speakers you're interested in.
FAQs
Can Any Speakers Worth With a PC?
It depends on the speaker’s connections, but most likely, yes. The most common connectivity options include 3.5mm jack, Bluetooth, wireless, and USB.
Are Soundbars Better Than Speakers?
A soundbar may be more suitable for your PC as they tend to take up less room compared to speakers. However, you will likely not get them same level as immersive sound as you would with high-quality speakers due to the wider soundstage of a speaker system. That being said, however, there are some very high-end soundbars that are brilliant for PCs, including the Creative Sound Blaster Katana V2 and Razer Leviathan V2 Pro.
How Do I Know if My Computer Has Built-In Speakers?
The best way to test this out is to play some music and locate the sound settings on your PC. Some monitors also come with built-in speakers, so you may have to adjust the output settings depending on whether your computer or monitor has speakers.
