Computer speakers have evolved from what they used to be.
Whether you want to blast your tunes in your office on your desktop or in a hotel room on your laptop, there are plenty of computer speakers to choose from for all situations.
When you are ready to take off the Bluetooth headphones and turn up the volume on the speakers, you want to read these reviews first. Lucky for you, we have written this guide on the best computer speakers on the market today:
Logitech Speaker System Z323
The Logitech Speaker System Z323 is a long-serving option for anyone seeking a solid set of desktop speakers that offer a little something extra. The speaker industry is a complex and quickly changing marketplace full of exorbitant prices, exotic brands, and flashy gimmicks. With that backdrop established, let’s be clear: the Logitech Z323 is none of that.
What the Logitech Z323 offers is a dependable and solid upgrade from a stock set of desktop PC speakers. Some might view the lack of gimmicks as a downside, but it is actually far from that. For anyone seeking a strong-sounding but affordable set of desktop speakers, the Z323 is actually a fantastic choice.
The Logitech Z323 offers a stereo speaker setup with a substantial powered subwoofer. With a total output of 30 watts, it is certainly not going to replace the local club’s PA system, but it is more than loud enough for any typical use.
What sets this setup apart from more low-end PC speakers is the powered subwoofer. By home theater setups this is a relatively modest six-inch downward facing driver. However, for anyone simply looking to add some additional bass and richness to a moderately priced PC setup, the power provided by this subwoofer is more than enough.
Logitech Speaker System Z323 with Subwoofer Renewed
- 2.1 Audio Channels
- 2.1 Audio Channels
Despite the fairly mid-range specifications, the Logitech Z323 has a lot going for it. Primarily, the price is highly favorable, with a set commonly selling for well under $50USD. Beyond that, the styling is a highlight of the Z323. It is modern without seeming dated. “Restrained by chic” would be an apt moniker to apply. There are also numerous convenience features that make this an excellent set of speakers to live with on a daily basis. Chief among these niceties are convenient front-mounted volume controls, as well as an oft-overlooked headphone jack.
- Cost (Under $50.)
- Understated Yet Handsome Styling
- Backed by the Logitech Brand
- The Upper-Range Can Sound Somewhat Thin
- Bass-Level Controls Are Difficult to Access
- The Powered Subwoofer Can Be In The Way
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Kanto 2 Channel Powered PC Gaming Desktop Speakers
These Kanto 2 Channel speakers are an interesting breed. There are numerous power bookshelf speakers on the market that masquerade as PC speakers but which lack the connectivity or ergonomics to full off the task. Among this sea of not-quite-successes, the Kantos might manage to pull out a victory.
Let’s start with the most undisputed aspect of the Kanto YU2, the sound quality. It is exceptional. No ifs, ands, or buts. For a speaker of this size, there are few other options that provide the level of fullness and volume. Even at extremely high listening levels, I struggled to detect even a hint of distortion. They make an impressive showing.
Another unique feature to the Kanto YU2’s is the built-in Digital-to-Analog converter, or DAC. This allows the YU2 to interface with a MAC or PC through a USB cable, rather than a traditional RCA or 3.5mm headphone input. The advantage of this is two-fold. First, it means that the conversion and amplification of the signal are inherently tuned for these speakers, rendering a more consistent level of audio quality. Second, because the audio signal is decoded after it is already received by the speaker, there is a significantly reduced risk of interference or noise being introduced in the signal.
It is difficult to find too many drawbacks to the Kanto YU2. They are certainly not the cheapest option available, retailing at around $250USD. Also, the exclusion of Bluetooth functionality is a somewhat surprising oversight. Admittedly, these are not primarily meant as Bluetooth speakers, and Bluetooth could also be added using an inexpensive module. However, given the price and quality which is evident throughout the rest of the package, the exclusion is somewhat surprising.
Kanto 2 Channel Powered PC Gaming Desktop Speakers – 3" Composite Drivers...
- POWERFUL AND COMPACT – YU2 Powered PC Gaming Speakers feature 3" composite drivers that provide distortion-free sound while 3/4" silk dome tweeters offer extreme clarity. At just under 6” tall, these small and powerful desktop computer speakers let you save space on your gaming desk setup without sacrificing premium audio quality
- POWERFUL AND COMPACT – YU2 Powered PC Gaming Speakers feature 3" composite drivers that provide distortion-free sound while 3/4" silk dome tweeters offer extreme clarity. At just under 6” tall, these small and powerful desktop computer speakers let you save space on your gaming desk setup without sacrificing premium audio quality
- STAY CONNECTED – With its built-in soundcard, YU2 can stream high-quality audio directly from your computer’s USB port, giving you seamless connectivity to your PC or laptop. Its 3.5mm AUX input also lets you connect to any device with a headphone jack, including smartphones, tablets, or other media players. For added bass response, the YU2 speakers are compatible with any powered subwoofer
- PREMIUM SOUND – The YU2’s acoustic grade MDF cabinet features a sleek rear bass port that has been specifically designed and tuned to eliminate port turbulence while extending bass response. The result is a premium quality 2.0 channel audio system made for PC gamers and audio enthusiasts alike
- UNIQUE COLOR OPTIONS – Choose from eight different color options to compliment your gaming setup or personalize your work desk area. Available in matte and gloss finishes in a variety of colors, the YU2 speakers were designed to let you express your individual personality while providing great quality sound
- COMPLETE PACKAGE – You don't have to buy multiple computer accessories to listen to high-quality audio. YU2 is ready to set up right out of the box with included power cord, speaker wires, 3.5mm mini-jack audio cord, and a USB cable to connect the speakers to your computer
Lastly, speaker grills would have been a welcome addition. While many prefer the exposed-driver look, having the option of a more reserved style (and protecting the drivers themselves) would have been nice. Overall, though, if you can look past a few minor missteps, the Kanto YU2 is a formidable package.
- The Sound Quality is Class-Leading
- Built-in DAC
- Fun Styling
- Price
- Lack of Bluetooth
- No Available Grills
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Pyle PBKSP22 Desktop Bookshelf Speakers Pair
The Pyle PBKSP22 is an ideal choice for a consumer that has one priority in mind: volume. One stray twist of the rear-mounted volume dial will quickly leave any uninformed passerby wondering how such a loud noise can come from such a compact package.
That is certainly not to say that the Pyle PBKSP22 is lacking in features or other admirable qualities. However, there are few other speakers of this size that packs the punch of the PBKSP22. It is a fairly accepted reality that speaker manufacturers are often less than honest about the true output of their speakers. After all, what is fifty watts between friends? With that backdrop established, it pleases me to state that the Pyle PBKSP22 delivers every single one of the 300 watts RMS that it promises.
At the very top end of the volume range, which falls well beyond “permanent hearing damage” levels, there is a slightly detectable distortion. But this should be readily ignored given the other acrobatic feats that this set of speakers pulls off. Beyond sheer volume, there is a lot to like about the Pyle PBKSP22. Spin the amp-unit around, and you will be greeted by a refreshingly complete set of inputs and controls. In addition to the standard 3.5mm input, the PBKSP22 also features a stereo RCA input as well as a USB jack, allowing this system to function well as either a PC speaker or as a standalone HiFi solution.
Beyond the inputs, there is also a full complement of controls. Rather than skimp and provide only a volume knob, Pyle went the extra distance and included a separate treble and bass control as well. Given the prodigious volume of these speakers, the option to fine-tune is a welcome addition.
HiFi Desktop Bookshelf Speakers Pair - 300 Watt Powered Bluetooth Compatible Active...
- 300 WATT POWER: These portable full range high powered bookshelf speakers have a maximum power output of 300 watt and 150 watt RMS so you can play your favorite tracks as loud as you want and with style. Comes w/ power cable
- 300 WATT POWER: These portable full range high powered bookshelf speakers have a maximum power output of 300 watt and 150 watt RMS so you can play your favorite tracks as loud as you want and with style. Comes w/ power cable
- HI-FI SOUND REPRODUCTION: These active + passive bookshelf speakers are equipped w/ 5.25" monitor speaker driver and 1" aluminum dome tweeter and feature 4-8 Ohm impedance / 50Hz-20kHz frequency response for full range stereo sound reproduction
- COMPATIBLE WITH BLUETOOTH: The stereo speaker system is compatible w/ bluetooth for wireless audio streaming and works with devices like iPhone, android mobile phone, iPad, tablet, PC. Ideal for personal indoor home use or for outdoor DJ party
- CONNECTIONS: This bookshelf desktop speaker is equipped w/ RCA (L/R), Aux audio input and USB flash drive reader and supports MP3 digital audio file. Perfect for home theater, studio monitor, or computer desk applications
- REAR PANEL CONTROL: The audio processing bass reflex active bookshelf speakers is equipped w/ rear panel control center and built-in digital audio amplifier so you can easily adjust the bass, treble, and volume levels to your liking
There are only two drawbacks to be found with the PBKSP22. First, the lack of Bluetooth is a somewhat unfortunate oversight which unfortunately limits the functionality of the set. Second, the build quality is solid but not the most refined. On the unit I reviewed, there was already slight fraying on the edge of the speaker grills. That said, this will not affect the functionality, nor is it unacceptable at this price point.
- Volume
- Volume
- More Volume
- Fully-Featured Inputs and Controls
- No Bluetooth
- Questionable Build Quality
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Audioengine A2+ Wireless 60W Powered Desktop Speakers
The Audioengine A2+ occupies an interesting place on the power speaker market. At first glance, most would assume that the A2+ is simply another set of power bookshelf speakers. However, closer inspection will reveal the A2+ as something much more – but also much less.
I say much less due to the size of the A2+. They are significantly smaller than they first appear, especially when you see them in photos. Compared to a standard set of bookshelf speakers, the Audioengine A2+ is roughly half the size in every dimension. These lilliputian dimensions make them an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys the classic aesthetic of bookshelf speakers like the venerable Baby Advents but lacks the desk space to house them.
That is, of course, assuming that the A2+ can hold their own in terms of sound quality. In this regard, they do not disappoint. While you are not likely to mistake them for full studio towers, the Audioengine A2+ provides a warm and surprisingly bass-heavy tone while maintaining high levels of clarity even at high volume levels. The only notable limitation in regards to sound quality was that in some bass-heavy testing, the A2+ was betrayed by lack of weight – they actually started rattle around the desk. This limited issue aside, they provided consistently admirable sound. Another nice feature is the built-in DAC, allowing digital audio to be fed directly to the speakers without risk of distortion or noise. Of course, they also provide a standard array of analog inputs, should you desire.
One oddity of the A2+ line involves Bluetooth functionality. The A2+ features an optional Bluetooth receiver, but not all models have it. Strangely, at the time of testing, there was no price difference between the Bluetooth and non-Bluetooth models. Thus, make sure you are spending your $270USD on the more highly equipped model. One other small criticism of the A2+ is the bridging cable which connects the powered right speaker to the passive left speaker. The two speakers are linked through standard banana plugs using a provided piece of cheap-feeling speaker cable. Which this is a functional and easily replaceable solution, this method of connecting the speakers did not live up to the premium feel imbued throughout the rest of the package.
Audioengine A2+ Wireless 60W Powered Desktop Speakers, Bluetooth aptX Codec, Built-in 16Bit...
- PREMIUM POWERED BLUETOOTH SPEAKERS: The award-winning A2+ Wireless Speakers provide detailed, true stereo sound and can easily connect to all your music in seconds. Great for your desktop or home music setup, the extended-range Bluetooth quickly and seamlessly connects to your phone, tablet or computer up to 100ft away.
- PREMIUM POWERED BLUETOOTH SPEAKERS: The award-winning A2+ Wireless Speakers provide detailed, true stereo sound and can easily connect to all your music in seconds. Great for your desktop or home music setup, the extended-range Bluetooth quickly and seamlessly connects to your phone, tablet or computer up to 100ft away.
- FEATURES: Bluetooth aptX, a USB audio input and dual analog audio inputs for connecting multiple devices. The A2+ features elegant design in painted wood cabinets, a subwoofer output, and analog class A/B amplifiers driving 2.75" custom aramid fiber woofers and 0.75" silk dome tweeters. Works with Mac or PC out of the box with no software to install, and saves power when not in use with an auto-sensing sleep mode.
- 60 WATTS OF POWER: Experience room filling sound in a tiny footprint. Easily connect the compact Audioengine S6 or S8 subwoofer via the RCA variable output. And at 6”H x 4”W x 5.25”D each, the A2+ system sounds much bigger than it is.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Pair of Audioengine A2+ Wireless Powered Speakers, 6.5ft speaker wire, power supply & cord, 5ft USB cable, 5ft mini-jack audio cable, microfiber speaker and cable bags, setup guide.
- WARRANTY: Stellar US based customer support and 3 year product warranty is included. Based in Austin, TX, Audioengine has been changing the way people listen to music since 2005. We believe in the power of music and our passion is to inspire you to listen every day.
These minor oversights aside, the Audioengine A2+ is a feature-packed and beautiful option for anyone looking to get into high-end audio without breaking the bank or taking up too much valuable real estate.
- Exceptional Sound Quality
- Built-in DAC
- Classy Styling
- Bluetooth Availability is Confusing
- Bridging Cable Felt Cheap
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Bose Companion 20 Multimedia Speaker System
Whenever I am given the opportunity to review a Bose product, I am always left with the same feeling. On the one hand, they have made quality audio equipment for more years than I’ve been alive. On the other hand, that legacy is often blurred with resting on their laurels.
This is certainly not to say that the Bose Companion 20 is a bad speaker system. In fact, as compact desktop setups go, it is one of the best. However, the same basic design dates back almost fifteen years. While the sound quality is still excellent, the visual motif and overall tactile experience feel lacking given the premium price being commanded. Though the sound reproduction is objectively good from a technical perspective, some of the levels can sometimes feel disproportionate. This is likely due to Bose’s proprietary “TrueSpace stereo digital processing.” This is effectively an equalizer built into the Companion 20’s amplifier circuitry. The positive of this is that the majority of the time this is an effective party trick and does allow the speakers to sound larger than they are. Despite that, during some tests, the highs and bass tones felt unnaturally emphasized while the mid-range became almost muted. The system seemed to particularly struggle with quiet vocal tracks.
The Companion 20 features an externally mounted “control pod” that houses the volume controls and headphone jack in a separate wired unit. Though this seems like a solid idea in concept, in practice it more often felt in the way and unnecessary. This is, of course, not a functional concern, but is nonetheless something to note.
Bose Companion 20 Multimedia Speaker System
- Convenient control pod to adjust or mute volume, connect headphones and add another audio device
- Sleek, space-saving design complements your computer and eliminates need for dedicated bass module
- Enjoy full, natural sound at your computer - or across the room - from our best two-piece system
- Convenient control pod to adjust or mute volume, connect headphones and add another audio device
- Sleek, space-saving design complements your computer and eliminates need for dedicated bass module
- Enjoy full, natural sound at your computer - or across the room - from our best two-piece system
- Bose TrueSpace technology reproduces wide, natural sound from only two speakers. Active electronic equalisation balances low, mid and high frequencies for more natural tone and clarity. Advanced port design and driver deliver powerful low-note performance and full, natural sound that fills the room
- All the sound comes from just two sleek speakers. Proprietary TrueSpace stereo digital processing circuitry creates a wide two-channel soundstage engineered specifically for listening at your computer
In total, the Companion 20 is an elegant if a somewhat boring set of desktop speakers that provide admirable sound quality the majority of the time. Anyone who fondly recalls the tonal quality of the famous “Wave Radios” by Bose will no doubt enjoy the sound quality of the Companion 20. But despite this technical adequacy, one is left wondering if the $240USD price tag is warranted for such an aging product.
- Elegant Design
- Sound Quality is Excellent Most of the Time
- Some Find the Design Boring
- Digital Mixing Struggles with Some Tracks
- Expensive
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Creative Labs 51MF1610AA002 GigaWorks T20 Series
The name of these speakers – let’s just call them the T20’s – is vast. Once you dive into the feature list of these powered desktop speakers, you will realize that the feature list is as well. Starting with the styling, the Creative Labs T20’s styling is an unqualified success in my book. It is true that exposed drivers are an acquired taste by some, but few can argue that the textured woven cones paired with the striking orange surrounds are a sophisticated but funky look.
The design is clearly meant to evoke images of 1970’s studio monitors blasting away organ-filled power ballads. To this end, they succeed. These speakers would not only blend into an urban loft or mid-mod bachelor pad, but they would also become a focal point. This is not to imply that the T20’s are style over substance. In fact, the included feature list will likely cause you to do a double-take at the surprisingly affordable $65USD cost. For example, the Creative Labs T20’s put the volume, treble, and bass control directly on the front of the speaker where it is in easy reach. Once you have lived with this easy solution, you are left wondering why any speaker company would be so daft as to put the controls on the back. Arguably the only complaint with these front-mounted controls is that there is no size differential between the knobs, so it is easy to accidentally paw at the wrong knob. That said, anyone living with these speakers on a daily basis will quickly develop the needed muscle memory to make this a non-issue.
Creative Labs 51MF1610AA002 GigaWorks T20 Series II 2.0 Multimedia Speaker System with...
- Precision-tuned two way speaker design with 28 watts RMS
- Woven glass fiber cone driver
- Cloth dome tweeter and BasXPort technology eliminating the need for a subwoofer
- Convenient front access to volume, bass, treble and input jacks. Works with computers, TVs and other audio sources.
- Precision-tuned two way speaker design with 28 watts RMS
- Woven glass fiber cone driver
- Cloth dome tweeter and BasXPort technology eliminating the need for a subwoofer
- Convenient front access to volume, bass, treble and input jacks. Works with computers, TVs and other audio sources.
- Turn up the volume on your connected MP3 player or smart device as high as it can go without distortion setting in, and use the volume controls on your Creative speaker to determine how loud (or soft) you want your audio
Another notable inclusion on the Creative Labs T20 is the front-mounted Line-In, immediately adjacent to the headphone jack. This allows them to serve double duty as PC speakers and as an iPod/Phone jukebox without the need to cord-wrangling, an excellent multitasking scenario for small spaces or dorm rooms. To this end, it should be noted that Bluetooth is not included as standard with the T20, but is only a $10 extra. This would be a smart upfront cost to incur to ensure versatility later. As for the sound quality, this is a continued point of praise. While there is nothing outstanding or noteworthy about the T20’s sound quality, they consistently deliver a clean and well-balanced sound with no notable distortion. The sound quality mimics the studio monitors that these were styled on: it can at times be somewhat cold or sterile, but the replication is always accurate. While the Creative Labs T20 are not the cheapest powered speakers on the market, they may just be the best value. For anyone looking for a solid and stylish performer with such much-appreciated features, these are a great choice.
- Styling
- Ease of Use
- Front Inputs
- Sound Can be Slightly Cold
- Bluetooth is an Additional Cost Option
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Logitech X-140 2.0 Speakers
Reviewing the Logitech X-140 is like reviewing your dog. It is an old standby, a loyal friend, and you frankly feel bad saying anything negative about it. Logitech is one of the oldest players in the powered computer speaker market, and for decades they were also one of the best. It is not as if they have fallen from grace, as that would be a wholly too dramatic assertion. Rather, you are left wondering if their innovation needs to keep up with their legacy.
The Logitech X-140 is a premium product and as such carries a premium price tag. At the time of reviewing, most vendors were selling the X-140 for around $200USD. For this price, you receive what you have come to expect from Logitech; that is a solid set of speakers with all the features you need but little else. And therein lies the primary issue. For anyone willing to shell out a pair of benjamins for a set of powered desktop speakers, it is not unfair for them to expect more. It is not all doom and gloom, however. Arguably, the Logitech X-140 excels at the most important task. The sound quality is excellent and surprisingly full for a speaker of this size. This depth is due to the dual drivers found in each speaker. Peaking through the semi-transparent grill will reveal not just the 3” composite driver that most speakers have, but also a second 3” dedicated bass driver. This secondary speaker, along with some clever porting, allow the X-140 to produce almost subwoofer levels of bass. An impressive trick, for sure.
Logitech X-140 2.0 Speakers
- Logitech X 140 - PC multimedia speakers - 5 watt RMS power
- Logitech X 140 - PC multimedia speakers - 5 watt RMS power
For all the focus on the low-end of the frequency spectrum, the X-140 does fall somewhat flat on the top end. While high frequencies are adequate, they sometimes sounded muddy. This was exacerbated with any track that required simultaneous mid-range heavy reproduction. Quite simply, it was easy to overwhelm the composite driver. Logitech was also thoughtful in the design of the X-140. It features front-mounted controls for all aspects of the sound, as well as a front-mounted Line-In for plugging in a secondary audio device. These are both features that are all too commonly overlooked by designers. In reflection, there is nothing specifically inadequate about the X-140. But, for the price, the standard lies closer to exceptional. Most customers would be better served by a lower-end model by Logitech, which would deliver 95% of the sound quality for 20% of the price.
- Design is Clean, if Somewhat Boring
- Excellent Bass
- Expensive
- Muddy Highs
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Edifier R2000DB Powered Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
The Edifier R2000DB Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers are an interesting proposition that could best be described as “a good option for many, but not the best option for all.” While they provide an admirable level of sound quality, they also exhibited some quirks in our testing that make them fall slightly sort of a wholehearted recommendation.
The first thing that anyone is likely to notice about the Edifier R2000DB’s is their styling. This cannot be honestly listed as a pro or a con, but rather a consideration. Within our office, many people applauded the somewhat avant-garde angular styling of the R2000DB.
On the other hand, numerous people on our staff thought that the hard edges and irregular shapes were trying slightly too hard and might appear dated within a relatively short time. Of course, this does not impact their functionality, but it was definitely a point of contention among some.
The headlining feature of the R2000DB’s is the Bluetooth functionality. This is arguably a must-half feature that a shocking number of bookshelf speakers lack. The R2000DB makes Bluetooth pairing a simple and straightforward process. A few reviewers have noted that the speakers are slightly slow to pair with older devices, but this appears to be an issue primarily with legacy hardware.
Edifier R2000DB Powered Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers - Near-Field Studio Monitors - Optical...
- BLUETOOTH CONNECTION - Pair your phone, tablet or computer for a true hassle free wireless experience, perfect for any iOS, Android, MacOS or Windows device.
- OPTICAL INPUT - Enjoy lossless digital connection from your TV, TV Box, DVD/blu-ray player, receiver, HTPC, computer or gaming consoles.
- BLUETOOTH CONNECTION - Pair your phone, tablet or computer for a true hassle free wireless experience, perfect for any iOS, Android, MacOS or Windows device.
- OPTICAL INPUT - Enjoy lossless digital connection from your TV, TV Box, DVD/blu-ray player, receiver, HTPC, computer or gaming consoles.
- 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.
- REMOTE CONTROL - switch input sources, control volume and choose digital sound processing (DSP) modes at your finger tips
- 2 YEAR WARRANTY - Guaranteed high quality and reliability with hassle-free parts and labor warranty for two years in USA and Canada.
The sound quality is another highlight of this set’s features. Despite their compact size, they manage to provide a rich and well-balanced sound stage which does an admirable job of filling even a large room. While the sound quality is good, and the replication of most audio is certainly accurate, it should be noted that the sound-mixing of these speakers is most akin to that of studio monitors. Thus, some tracks do have a tendency to feel somewhat sterile or cold. Luckily, this is quickly rectified with slight equalizer adjustment on the source device.
- Styling (if you like it)
- Volume Level
- Connectivity
- Styling (if you don’t like it)
- Some Might Find the Sound “Cold”
- Price ($250)
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Best PC Computer Speakers by Price
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