Shopping for the best PC speakers can be daunting, especially with so many options on the market. To make things easier for you, we've compiled a list of our top picks, ranging from budget-friendly to high-end, to give you the most immersive audio experience possible.
To start with though, you need to decide what kind of speaker system you want. For PCs, 2.0 and 2.1 setups are generally the most common. Just like the figure describes, 2.1 systems come with two speakers and a subwoofer - a combination best suited for music, movies, and PC gaming.
Meanwhile, 5.1 is more uncommon for PCs, as it’s typically a setup used for TVs to complete a home theatre setup. However, if you have enough room on your desk and want more immersive audio from every angle, then a 5.1 system is worth considering.
In terms of sound quality, you'll need something balanced that can produce accurate sound reproduction. This can be ensured with a THX certification, which verifies that the audio produced is an accurate reproduction of how it was originally recorded.
Connectivity is another important factor to consider. Most speakers will offer multiple ways to connect, including USB, RCA, AUX, and more. Meanwhile, wireless speakers generally let you connect via Bluetooth, thus helping you keep your setup free from wires. In any case, we'd suggest going for speakers with multiple connectivity options so you can pair them with a range of devices.
Finally, you need to consider how much desk space you’re willing to give up. If you have a space to spare, you might consider looking at larger speakers with subwoofers. However, if you own one of the best gaming desks, for instance, and have it packed with peripherals, then we've picked out a few smaller speaker options to consider.
With this in mind, let’s have a look at some of the best PC speakers available now…
Best PC speakers
Best PC speakers - Logitech Z623 400
The Logitech Z623 400 is a 2.1 system that comes with two satellite speakers and a subwoofer which, according to the brand, aims to deliver clear and dynamic audio that we feel is suited for music, gaming, as well as movies.
With 400 Watts peak power (200 Watts RMS), you're getting a fairly powerful sound. Furthermore, the audio is THX-certified, meaning they've been verified as producing accurate sound.
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Connection-wise, you can plug the system into several devices with the RCA and 3.5mm inputs. The pair also has an audio jack, which you can use for private listening sessions. You can customise your audio too, with volume control and bass adjustment along the right side of the speakers. This means you can adjust the output to suit whatever it is you're listening to.
In terms of size, Logitech's system features a compact design, so you shouldn’t have to worry about desk space. It has a simple plug-and-play setup, so all you have to do is place the speakers on your desk, plug them in, and start playing - what's not to like?
Best budget PC speakers - Creative Pebble 2.0
The aptly named Creative Pebble 2.0 are a compact and relatedly inexpensive set of speakers to consider. Firstly, they're easy to set up as they're connected by a single USB, which helps to eliminate cable clutter on your desk. You don’t have to worry about a power adapter either.
When it comes to sound, the speakers have far-field drivers that take advantage of the acoustics in your room to deliver high-quality, immersive audio. Plus, there are passive radiators on the back of the speakers, which tweak the bass reproduction depending on what you're listening to.
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Interestingly, the two pebble-shaped speakers have elevated drivers set at 45-degree angles. This is to enhance the audio projection and give a more immersive listening experience that's focused directly toward you while sitting at your desk.
Ultimately, these compact, budget-friendly speakers look like an excellent option to consider for your PC setup, especially as their small size means they save on desk space.
Best gaming PC Speakers - Razer Nommo Pro
Known for its gaming peripherals and hardware, we feel it's hard to beat these Razer Chroma-enabled speakers if you're looking for a great set for gaming.
The Razer Nommo Pro is a 2.1 system with a dedicated downward firing subwoofer, designed to deliver immersive audio with “desk-shaking” and “room-thumping” sounds. Plus, it features Dolby Virtual Surround Sound for a cinematic experience whilst gaming.
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The controls are quite straightforward as well. There’s an LED-lit control pod that lets you change the volume or even mute the speakers, making it easy to adjust the sound mid-gameplay.
Furthermore, you can connect the system to various devices via a USB, optical cable, or even Bluetooth. It also has a 3.5mm audio jack to plug your headphones, giving you plenty of choices when getting them set up.
So, if your setup needs surround sound-enabled speakers with some RGB lights for added atmosphere, then Razer’s Nommo Pro speaker system might be your answer.
Best premium PC speakers - Bose Surround Speakers 700
Through the years, Bose has earned a reputation for producing high-quality audio equipment, so of course, we had to include a Bose product in our list. The speakers we have gone for aim to deliver a cinema-like sound while cutting down on cable clutter.
More specifically, the Bose Surround Speakers 700 is a premium, wireless sound system for your PC. That said, you can connect these speakers to your PC as well as a TV or other devices via Bluetooth, optical cable, or even HDMI.
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Interestingly, you can mount these speakers to your wall or your ceiling, or simply place them atop your desk if you have the space. All you need to do is get the right accessories for the placement.
Then, to further improve the cinematic experience from the surround sound system, you can add in a Bose soundbar, and, for bass, the Bose Bass Module 700 subwoofer. So, not only are these speakers great to begin with, you can even customise your system to suit your setup.
Best PC speakers with subwoofer - SteelSeries Arena 7
The RGB SteelSeries Arena 7 speakers look to be a great pick if you're after a system that can deliver a full range of audio with powerful bass.
To start with, the system features a 6.5-inch precision subwoofer to deliver deep lows during intense action. As they're downward firing as well, you can expect to feel all the thumps and explosions from the comfort of your setup. The pair of L and R speakers also have separate woofers for mid-frequencies and tweeters to deliver clear highs.
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You can control the volume, Bluetooth pairing, LED RGB lights, and other functions with the multi-function dial on the right speaker, thus making them easy to adjust mid-action.
For connectivity, the system lets you pair it up with USB, AUX, and RCA. It also lets you connect via Bluetooth if you want to keep your PC setup free from wires.
Ultimately, if you’re looking for a speaker system with a powerful subwoofer, then we'd suggest checking out this SteelSeries system.
Frequently Asked Questions
While you're looking for the best PC speaker, you might have some of these questions...
What is THX-certified audio?
THX is a company that runs a quality check on audio equipment, which includes speakers.
So, a THX-certified speaker means that the device reproduces sound as it was originally recorded, given that the reference room size remains the same.
Depending on the size of the room, the certifications will vary. However, a THX certification essentially guarantees high-quality sound due to the strict standards of performance and acoustics speakers are required to pass.
Is a subwoofer necessary for PC speakers?
If you're looking to increase immersion through sound, a subwoofer is a perfect addition. It will make all those explosions and rumbles, particularly in FPS games, come to life!
This is because a subwoofer is built to produce deeper bass frequencies, creating lows that are otherwise hard to achieve through regular speakers.
We'd say if you're a fan of music, movies, and video games, then you should definitely consider getting a subwoofer or speaker system with one. A subwoofer will enhance your listening experience, allowing you to enjoy your favourite tunes, films, and games to their full potential.