When looking for a pair of good computer speakers, you’ll obviously want the size and aesthetics to vibe with your current desktop setup, but there are some other things to consider as well. Think about the dB levels and frequency range, both of these metrics measure the loudness and fidelity of your listening experience. While it’s hardly necessary, having a speaker setup that comes with a subwoofer included can also have a compounding effect on your listening experience. If you’re looking for a way to bench test your new speakers, check out our guide to the best tracks for evaluating audio equipment. There’s certainly no shortage of budget-friendly speakers out there, but these picks are some of the best computer speakers you can get. Our testing showed that these dynamic bookshelf cans offer the right mix of sound reproduction with accurate, balanced frequency response. We found the speakers deliver a deep, rich bass that doesn’t overwhelm, as well as a smooth treble range that doesn’t pierce the eardrums. There’s an integrated digital-to-analog converter that allows you to bypass analog output for a purer signal. Like most desktop speakers, they’re easy to set up, featuring built-in amplifiers (50 watts per channel) that skip the need for a stereo receiver. Just connect them to your player’s headphone jack or USB device. Simple. There’s also a remote control for convenience, RCA inputs, and a USB power port for charging mobile devices directly. If you’re thinking of upgrading to an even more immersive surround sound system, find out if a 5.1 system is right for you. Dimensions: 10.75 x 7 x 9 in. | Weight: 15.4 lbs | Type: Bookshelf speakers | Wired/Wireless: Wired | Controls: Physical dial and buttons; remote control | Connection: 3.5mm, RCA, USB The 2.1, 200-watt speaker system features on-speaker controls, as well as RCA and 3.5 mm inputs that allow you to connect up to three audio devices at a time. And the subwoofer features a seven-inch driver made to deliver a deep bass sound. Keep in mind, these speakers are mid-range. They’re not meant for recording studios or amphitheaters. But for pretty much any desktop computer application, they’ll deliver a high-quality bang for your buck. Dimensions: 11.2 x 12 x 10.5 in | Weight: 15.4 lbs | Type: Bookshelf speakers | Wired/Wireless: Wired | Controls: On-speaker | Connection: 3.5mm, VGA, RCA A separate control panel turns the speakers on and off, adjusts master and bass volume and contains the 3.5mm headphone jack and aux-in jack. Housed in an acoustically balanced wood cabinet, the subwoofer offers clear audio and good bass response. The magnetically shielded satellite speakers offer clear and open sound to round out the full audio experience. The included 5-foot cable offers more than enough cord to connect to a PC, and there is an 11-foot speaker cable to connect both satellite speakers. Dimensions: 8.0 3.0. x 3.0 in | Weight: 8.55 lbs | Type: Bookshelf speakers | Wired/Wireless: Wired | Controls: Audio control dial | Connection: 3.5mm, headphone out, aux-in When it comes to features, the Logitech S150 USB Speakers keep it simple: volume control (including a mute button), easy-to-use USB connectivity, and an LED power indicator so you can make sure everything is in working order. They don’t even require a separate power cord—just plug into a single USB port and you’re ready to listen. Ideal for a dorm room or office, these speakers will bring out the best in your favorite songs, videos, movies or games. Dimensions: 6.22 x 2.68 x 2.52 in | Weight: 1 lb | Type: Bookshelf speakers | Wired/Wireless: Wired | Controls: On-speaker | Connection: 3.5mm, USB-A When it comes to design, the Audioengine HD3 speakers have a cool retro look and come in black, cherry and walnut. These speakers also have a ton of versatility. On the back of the speakers, our testing showed that there are multiple inputs to accommodate both digital and analog sources, including a USB audio input and a digital-to-analog converter. They also have Bluetooth connectivity, so you can stream music from your smartphone or tablet on top of playing it through your computer. Our tester was extremely happy with these speakers, noting that the sound quality for Audioengine HD3 is second to none for computer speakers and that the speakers give off great mids, highs, and bass, so every song sounds amazing. Dimensions: 7.0 x 4.25 x 5.5 in | Weight: 7.4 lbs | Type: Bookshelf speakers | Wired/Wireless: Both| Controls: On-speaker | Connection: RCA, Bluetooth, USB input, 3.5mm The speakers also offer multiple connection options, pairing with up to three devices via Bluetooth, micro USB, and 3,5mm audio jack. You can easily switch between wired and wireless connections. It is important to note, however, that the speakers, themselves, are not fully wireless, despite supporting Bluetooth audio. They will require a power source. Dimensions: 9.45 x 9.21 x 7.09 in | Weight: 5.4 lbs | Type: Bookshelf speakers | Wired/Wireless: Wired | Controls: Wireless audio control | Connection: 3.5mm, micro USB, Bluetooth So, yes, the design on these speakers is truly unique and impressive—but what about the sound? By all measures, it’s top-notch. The SoundSticks include four, one-inch full-range transducers per channel powered by a 10-watt amplifier. There’s also one, 6-inch low-frequency transducer with a 20-watt amp for room-filling bass response. Through the 3.5 mm stereo connection, you can connect the speakers to virtually any device. However, some users have complained about the speakers’ out-of-the-box frequency balance. Depending on your preferences, you may want to compensate through a digital equalizer, but it’s really up to you. Dimensions: 11.0 x 11.3 x 15.5 in | Weight: 16.39 lbs | Type: Bookshelf speakers | Wired/Wireless: Wired | Controls: On-speaker touch controls, subwoofer volume | Connection: 3.5mm Let’s talk about sound features now: the speaker set offers 20 watts of RMS, which is pretty low for loudspeakers but will probably be sufficient for most desktop office setups. You can push the speakers up to 40 watts, but extended use at the volume might blow or fatigue the system, so it’s best to plan on sticking around the 20-watt zone. The satellite speakers are directional, though, so they’ll maximize that wattage, and the side-firing subsystem gives you a nice, full, clear bass channel to add oomph to the system. It’s your standard computer set, so no compatibility concerns are necessary because it’ll connect via 3.5mm aux cable to any computer that has that input, from PCs to Macs. Dimensions: 8.25 x 3.25 x 3.0 in | Weight: 6 lbs | Type: Bookshelf speakers | Wired/Wireless: Wired | Controls: On-speaker | Connection: 3.5mm The minimalist design of these speakers is ideal for anyone looking to keep desk clutter to a minimum. Cable management is also incredibly simple, with a single USB-C port for power and a 3.5mm audio jack, no wall outlet or AC adapter is required to keep these speakers running. These speakers aren’t going to exactly blow anyone away with their volume or bass, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more well-rounded (pun intended) pair of speakers for around $30. Dimensions: 4.5 x 4.8 x 4.5 in | Weight: 0.25 lbs | Type: Bookshelf speakers | Wired/Wireless: Wired | Controls: On-speaker | Connection: USB-C, 3.5mm Bill Thomas is an editor fluent in all things tech. Besides employing their talents at Lifewire, they also work with Techradar as a computing editor. Emily Ramirez has been writing for Lifewire since 2019. With a background in media studies and game design, she’s reviewed a variety of audio products including speakers, stereos, and streaming devices. She liked the solid audio capabilities of the Razer Nonmo Pro and the extra features.
What to Look for in Computer Speakers
Sound Quality
Obviously, the sound quality varies from set to set. You can spend the value of a popcorn and soda for a decent set of desktop speakers or break the bank on a system that’ll fill your room with excellent sound. Either rely on reviews to assess a speaker’s sound quality or head to your local electronics retailer to test it out for yourself. Additionally, if you’re looking for heavy bass, make sure you pick up a system that includes a subwoofer. If you want to pair speakers with a home theater or surround sound setup, take a look at our overview of 2.0, 2.1, 5.1, 6.1, 7.1 channel systems.
Design
You’ll have your chosen set of speakers sitting on your desk, so you might as well pick a pair that’s visually appealing. Beyond aesthetics, consider how the size of the speakers will fit into your existing setup. For example, if you select an option with a subwoofer, will you have room for it under your desk?
Wireless
If you’re using your new speakers with a laptop, consider choosing a set with built-in Bluetooth capabilities so you can be completely wireless at your desk. The latest version is Bluetooth 5.0, though you’ll likely still encounter many speakers with the older Bluetooth 4.1 and 4.2 standard. Bluetooth range tops out at around 33 feet, depending on interference, so that’s also something to keep in mind. For wireless speakers that use Bluetooth, you’ll need to make sure the speakers are powered up then go into the Settings menu of your computer, enable Bluetooth, and then pair with the speakers (make sure to have them in pairing mode).
