Best Budget Computer Speakers Under $100
Most people don't think you can get high-quality computer speakers at an affordable price.
Well, today is your lucky day because we have gathered the best computer speakers under $100.
These speakers will provide great sound without hurting your wallet. All of these computer speakers easily hook up to your laptop or computer for easy listening.
So here are the best budget computer speakers today:
Cyber Acoustics CA-3602FFP 2.1 Speaker Sound System
The Cyber Acoustics CA-3602FFP 2.1 is an interesting system that is difficult to place into a single category. On the one hand, it punches above its weight. However, the ergonomics and sound balance left some wanting more.
The CA-3602FFP is a fairly traditional layout but with a twist. The basic system consists of two mid- and high-range drivers that sit on your desk, as well as a powered subwoofer. However, the system also features a “control pod” which serves as a separate volume control and headphone output.
At first, this control pod seems like an admirable idea, allowing you to place your volume control and headphone jack wherever it is most convenient. However, upon further use, its purpose becomes less clear. Had they simply placed these features on one of the speakers, there would have been one less object to clutter your desk, and one less wire to organize. This “control pod” might be a pro to some, but others simply found it to be an inconvenience.
- Bass Level
- Price
- Size of the Subwoofer
- “Control Pod” is an Odd Choice
Another positive yet potential drawback is the subwoofer used by the CA-3602FFP. There is only one way to put this: it is huge. While this system certainly does not disappoint regarding the bass level it can achieve, the subwoofer also runs the risk of overwhelming the comparatively small desk speakers. The size of the subwoofer pertains to more than just sound quality. Its physical dimensions also mean that it may be difficult to fit under some desks. That being said, if bass is a priority, this is a great option.
Cyber Acoustics CA-3602FFP 2.1 Speaker Sound System with Subwoofer and Control Pod...
- ROOM FILLING SOUND: Driven by an acoustically optimized internal power supply, this subwoofer speaker system delivers 62 watts peak power and 30 watts RMS. With this kind of power you can expect amazing sound at any volume level, filling any large room in the home or office.Mounting Type: Wall Mount
- ROOM FILLING SOUND: Driven by an acoustically optimized internal power supply, this subwoofer speaker system delivers 62 watts peak power and 30 watts RMS. With this kind of power you can expect amazing sound at any volume level, filling any large room in the home or office.Mounting Type: Wall Mount
- EASY TO USE: The convenient control pod gives you full control over your sound system. Adjust the volume, turn it on and off, or use the headphone output jack for those private listening moments. With easy access to the 3.5mm aux input, you can quickly connect your cell phone, tablet, MP3 player, or gaming system to really pump up the sound. Plus bass volume control allows you to fine tune the richness of the sound just the way you like it.
- RICH AUDIO: The ported 5.25” subwoofer delivers some of the deepest bass available, powerful for any audio experience, along with the satellites using twin 2” drivers deliver crisp, clean, optimized sound.
- CONTEMPORARY DESIGN: Created to look great sitting next to today's flat panel monitors, the piano black finish on the satellites will blend right in. Features power cable is 5 feet, speaker to speaker cable is separates up to 11 feet, speaker to subwoofer cable is 6 feet, input cable is 6 feet from control pod and control pod cable is 6 feet
- QUALITY GUARANTEED: Includes 1 year hassle free manufacturer warranty. AC power 110V only ; Wattage (Satellites): Each speaker: 6 watts/ch @ 4 ohm @ 10% THD
Overall, the CA-3602FFP provides good sound quality at a great price, with prices typically coming in at well under $40USD. Despite the quality of the sound, some of the quirks of the system make it less than ideal for some.
back to menu ↑Logitech Multimedia Speakers Z200
The Logitech Z200 occupies a fascinating place in the powered speaker market. Logitech is unquestionably one of the flagship companies in the computer speaker game, and many of their products reflect this status in the price. When shopping for powered computer speakers, one can drop $300USD on a set of Logitech speakers with staggering ease. But the Z200 occupies the opposite end of this spectrum. The Logitech Z200 costs under $20.
What, then, is sacrificed when a high-end maker takes a crack at a low-end product? Shockingly little, it turns out. From an audio perspective, the Z200 punches firmly above its weight class. So long as your expectations are set in-line with a single set of 3” drivers, you will be thoroughly impressed by the expansive sound stage produced by these diminutive speakers.
Further, the Z200 provides an impressively complete set of features for a speaker set at this price point. Users are given easy access to tone controls, volume, a headphone jack, and a much-appreciated front-input for additional devices. The ergonomics of the tone control leave something to be desired, given their awkward side-mounted placement. However, they are still perfectly functional and do not significantly deter from the overall experience.
- Price
- Excellent Sound Quality
- The Cheapest Way to Enter the Logitech Game
- Construction Feels Somewhat Cheap
- Some Controls are Awkward to Use
If one nod to cost-cutting was made by Logitech, it would be in the styling and materials department. While they do not feel flimsy, the Z200’s do feel surprisingly light and budget-oriented. Beyond this, the lack of speaker-grills is a cost-cutting measure that some may not mind, but some might view it as a poor choice.
Logitech Multimedia Speakers Z200 with Stereo Sound for Multiple Devices - Black...
- Rich Stereo Sound with Adjustable Bass - Enrich your music and movie experience with room-filling sound and adjustable bass. Simple controls allow you to access everything on the right speaker.
- Rich Stereo Sound - 10 Watts Peak/5 Watts RMS power produces room-filling sound. Each speaker has one active/powered driver that delivers full range audio and one passive radiator that provides bass extension.
- Rich Stereo Sound with Adjustable Bass - Enrich your music and movie experience with room-filling sound and adjustable bass. Simple controls allow you to access everything on the right speaker.
- Rich Stereo Sound - 10 Watts Peak/5 Watts RMS power produces room-filling sound. Each speaker has one active/powered driver that delivers full range audio and one passive radiator that provides bass extension.
- Adjustable Bass - Customize your listening experience. Add another dimension to your audio by adjusting the bass level with the tone control dial. Rotate the tone control wheel at the side of the multimedia speakers for added deep bass
- Simple Controls - Easily access power, volume, bass, headphone jack and auxiliary jack on the right speaker. Front panel has integrated volume and power controls with headphone plug-in and auxiliary input.
- Compact Desgin, Two Colors - Z200 delivers high-quality audio without taking too much space on your desk. The speakers come in colors—pick one that best matches your style.
The Z200 is an impressive package for the cost. While no one will likely be impressed by the sight of them on your desk, Logitech invested their limited dollars where it counts. The sound quality of these speakers surpasses that of products that are multitudes more expensive. And for $20, can you really ask for more?
back to menu ↑TaoTronics Bluetooth 5.0 Computer Speaker
The TaoTronics Bluetooth 5.0 Speaker is an excellent albeit somewhat confusing product. In recent years, the “sound bar” form factor of speaker has become increasingly popular.
These “sound bars” typically take one of two forms: either a standalone surround-sound emulating home-theater setup or a supplemental center-channel speaker for an existing setup. You would be forgiven for thinking the TaoTronics Bluetooth 5.0 was another entrant into the sound bar game. However, it is actually a wholly independent and unique product.
The TaoTronics Bluetooth 5.0 tries to be everything and nothing all at once. TaoTronics markets it as a portable Bluetooth speaker to be used with cell phones over Bluetooth. While it functions reasonably well at this task, there are two issues. First is simply the physical size of it. At over 16” long, this is not a small speaker. Moveable? Yes. Portable? Eh.
- Sound Quality
- Price
- Ease of Connectivity
- Not Truly Portable
- Battery Life
The other issue is battery life. The TaoTronics does feature a lithium-ion battery to allow on-the-go listening, but one can only expect about 5 hours of playback time. Given the size and battery limitations, there are other portable Bluetooth speakers which may be a better choice for those that emphasize portability. However, one factor that the TaoTronics does not compromise is sound quality. It is truly impressive that such an impressive sound quality could be produced by a speaker of this size. The bass is full, the mids are clean, and the highs are crisp. It’s an impressive showing.
TaoTronics Bluetooth 5.0 Computer Speaker, Wired/Wireless Computer Sound Bar, Mini Soundbar Speaker...
- Stream wirelessly: connect via Bluetooth 5.0 or plug in physical AUX and RCA cable connections, choose your most convenient
- Immersive sound experience: housing Two 5W full range speakers, The sound bar delivers a crisp, mesmerizing sound
- Stream wirelessly: connect via Bluetooth 5.0 or plug in physical AUX and RCA cable connections, choose your most convenient
- Immersive sound experience: housing Two 5W full range speakers, The sound bar delivers a crisp, mesmerizing sound
- Easy set up in minutes: The package contains all equipment needed - Unpack, plug in, and enjoy
- Widely compatible: The computer sound bar also connects with your phone, tablet, MP3 player, or any other device with Bluetooth, RCA, or audio connectivity
- Fits your desk perfectly: The ultra-slim sound bar is tailored to save precious space and avoid cluttering
In total, this is a fantastic speaker at a great price that simply lacks a defined purpose. As a bedroom or kitchen speaker to sync music to, this is a fantastic and compact option. But as a portable unit, there are better options available.
back to menu ↑Edifier R980T 4″ Active Bookshelf Speakers
You would be forgiven for thinking that the Edifer R980T is simply a rebadged version of Edifer’s venerable R2000DB. While they share a brand and similar styling, the R980T is a completely different category of speaker.
Edifer markets the R980T as a powered computer speaker, but it is unlikely for this to be the most common use for them. In fact, a quick look at the inputs of this system will tell you clearly that this was never designed to be a PC speaker.
The primary input is a stereo RCA input; this is a much more common home-stereo or Hi-Fi arrangement. Even overlooking this discrepancy, the form factor of the R980T would make it a poor choice for a computer speaker, as it is a relatively bulky book-shelf style speaker. Unless you had a truly massive desk or were willing to run extremely long cables, it is unlikely that these speakers would find a welcome place next to your monitor.
- Sound Quality
- Price Point
- Compact for the Style
- Somewhat Cheap Appearance
- Poorly Marketed
Overlooking the marketing and instead evaluating the speakers on their merits, the Edifer R980T’s do not disappoint. For a studio monitor powered bookshelf speaker, these are an extremely affordable option at under $70USD. While they are far from the loudest or richest speakers ever produced, they nonetheless provide admirable and rich audio quality for the price.
Edifier R980T 4" Active Bookshelf Speakers - 2.0 Computer Speaker - Powered...
- 24 WATTS RMS POWER OUTPUT - Active bookshelf speaker system with 24W total power output with calibrated, flared bass reflex port in front
- CLASSIC WOOD FINISH - 100% wooden enclosures to minimize acoustic resonance.
- 24 WATTS RMS POWER OUTPUT - Active bookshelf speaker system with 24W total power output with calibrated, flared bass reflex port in front
- CLASSIC WOOD FINISH - 100% wooden enclosures to minimize acoustic resonance.
- CABLES INCLUDED - RCA and 3.5mm cables and speaker wire included. Universal 110V-240V power supply.
- 2 X AUX INPUT - Convenient connection to any device that has a 3.5mm headphone output or dual RCA output. Connect to two devices via AUX at the same time, no plugging and switching needed.
- 2 YEAR WARRANTY - Guaranteed high quality and reliability with hassle-free parts and labor warranty for two years in USA and Canada.
Sound quality aside, inspecting the speakers themselves does make the cost seem somewhat more apparent. While they do not feel poorly built, it is clear that the materials were chosen with cost in mind. This is not a concern of durability, as they will likely provide years of rugged and dependable use, but rather they simply do not exude a “premium” feel.
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Creative Pebble 2.0 USB-Powered Desktop Speakers
The Creative Pebble 2.0 USB-Powered speakers occupy and interesting but useful place in the pantheon of desktop speakers. Traditionally, speakers fall into one of two categories: “stationary” or “travel.” The Creative Pebble 2.0 bucks this trend and somehow manages to be neither. And both.
In the “stationary” corner is the Creative Pebble 2.0’s size. While not massive, these are fairly sizeable speakers which might not be ideal for fitment in a laptop bag or backpack. That being said, at 4.4” in diameter, they are certainly not massive either. Let’s call them easy-to-move but not-quite-portable.
In the “travel” corner of the Pebble’s feature list is their USB power source. Unlike a traditional speaker set, the Creative Pebble 2.0 does not need an auxiliary power source. Rather, they simply plug into any USB outlet. This makes them extremely easy to place anywhere that desk or outlet real estate is at a premium.
- Attractive Yet Adorable Design
- Price
- Sound Quality
- Speaker Cone is Left Exposed/Vulnerable to Damage
Their sound quality is surprisingly good, so long as you set your expectations at a reasonable level. While they will not give any high-dollar audiophile gear a cause of concern, they nonetheless provide a respectable and full sound given their compact dimensions. The styling is another key positive on these speakers. There isn’t another way to put it: these things are cute. The circular design manages to be both adorable and mature at the same time. There is little negative to be said about the way the Creative Pebble looks.
Creative Pebble 2.0 USB-Powered Desktop Speakers with Far-Field Drivers and Passive Radiators...
- Single USB cable for computers and laptops | enjoy a hassle-free Audio experience with a single USB cable without the need for a power adapter
- Far-field drivers and passive radiators | custom-tuned far-field driver solution with rear facing passive radiators for excellent audio and enhanced bass reproduction
- Single USB cable for computers and laptops | enjoy a hassle-free Audio experience with a single USB cable without the need for a power adapter
- Far-field drivers and passive radiators | custom-tuned far-field driver solution with rear facing passive radiators for excellent audio and enhanced bass reproduction
- 45° elevated drivers | for enhanced audio projection and an immersive personal listening experience
- Modern and stylish aesthetics | perfect for any modern homes, offices and workspaces.
- Easy access volume control | Conveniently placed Front-facing controls for instant adjustments
- Frequency Response 100 Hz (Hertz) ~ 17 kHz (kiloHertz)
Perhaps the only downside to this set is that there is a slight distortion in sound quality at maximum volume. However, at any reasonable level, these sound great – especially given the diminutive price tag of under $16 USD.
back to menu ↑Creative Inspire T12 2.0
For some time, Creative has been one of the most impressive newcomers to the powered desktop speaker world. Their T20 speaker system continues to be one of the most impressive packages on the market for its given price range. On the heels of the T20’s excellence, it was with significant excitement that we reviewed the T12. Our conclusion? It is still a good product, but a lot of the magic is gone.
It bears explaining that the T12 is a direct response to the success of the T20. Whereas the T20 is a mid-priced set featuring dual driven speakers in each unit, the T12 retains the same case but reduces the speaker number by half. Unfortunately, this impacts the style and the substance of the T12. Much of the styling of the T20 was derived from the gorgeous display of the exposed drivers. The sound quality too was stunning because of this sound-forward philosophy.
- Good Sound Quality
- Great Value
- Front-Mounted Line-in
- Sound is Less Full Than The Slightly More Expensive T20
- The Included 3.5mm Cord is Somewhat Short
And it is in that context that the T12 seems somewhat underwhelming. Perhaps this is unfair, because the Creative T12 is still an excellent set of speakers, and costs almost half of what the T20 demands ($40USD vs $65USD.) Sound quality is still excellent if somewhat less full, and the styling and build quality are still excellent. If $40USD is the maximum you can budget, the T12 is a fantastic choice. But if you can spring for the extra $25USD, go with the T20.
Creative Inspire T12 2.0 Multimedia Speaker System with Bass Flex Technology
- Built in Bass Flex technology
- High Performance Drivers
- Built in Bass Flex technology
- High Performance Drivers
In conclusion, you have plenty of great options when it comes to choosing the best computer speakers online. But sticking to the tried and true brands will usually serve you well. There are a lot of amazing companies out there like Logitech, Bose & Pyle who are creating the next generation of computer speakers.
back to menu ↑AmazonBasics AC Powered PC Multimedia External Speakers
Perhaps the most accurate thing that can be said about the AmazonBasics speakers is that the name is accurate: they are a basic but impressively functional product. It is important to say this upfront because they are a product that demands to be reviewed within its context.
The AmazonBasics speakers retail for around $25USD, making them a decidedly budget-focused product. This is not to imply that they fall short in any meaningful way. They look reasonably handsome, they sound fairly good, and there are no glaring omissions to the feature list.
The sound quality was not what one would expect from looking at the speakers. Generally, speakers that feature dual composite drivers tend towards being bass or mid-range forward. However, the AmazonBasics speakers actually prioritized high-level reproduction. The bass and midrange were perfectly adequate and sound production was overall very clear.
- Front Mounted Line-In
- Very Nice High-End Sound Reproduction
- Construction Felt Somewhat Cheap
- Slightly Muddy Low-End Sound
The overall feel and appearance of the AmazonBasics speakers are not bad, but they are about what you would expect. The molded plastic case combined with the notable lack of speaker grills made the speakers look somewhat cheap.
A surprising but welcome addition to the AmazonBasics speakers is the front-mounted Line-In port. This is an extremely useful feature that all-too-often even expensive brands forego. The ability to quickly plug in an external music player without moving any cords is a nice touch that definitely ups the versatility of these speakers.
AmazonBasics AC Powered PC Multimedia External Speakers
- AC-powered (13W) wired multimedia speakers with dual 2.5-inch drivers per speaker for supreme stereo sound with notable deep bass
- Turn the speakers on and adjust the volume using simple, easy-access controls (located on the front of the speakers); volume control includes On/Standby
- AC-powered (13W) wired multimedia speakers with dual 2.5-inch drivers per speaker for supreme stereo sound with notable deep bass
- Turn the speakers on and adjust the volume using simple, easy-access controls (located on the front of the speakers); volume control includes On/Standby
- Plug and play—simply plug in the power and insert 3.5mm jack into your audio device; plugs directly into a wall outlet for maximum power
- Connect up to 2 devices at a time using 3.5mm audio input plus auxiliary line; built-in headphone jack for plugging in headphones; frequency range of 57 Hz - 20 KHz; 7 watts of total RMS power (3.5 watts per speaker)
- Measures approximately 3.4 by 9.3 by 4.2 inches; weighs approximately 2.8 pounds; backed by an Amazon Basics 1-year limited warranty
Overall, there is nothing bad to say about the AmazonBasics speakers. They are not likely to win any sound or design awards, but they deliver exactly what they promise: a surprisingly capable set of speakers at an utterly affordable price.
back to menu ↑Best Budget Computer Speakers by Price
