Monday, January 25, 2021

Best computer speakers 2021: the best audio systems for your PC

Give your earlobes a break by getting the best computer speakers. Although an argument can be made for the best gaming headsets, which come with their own set of benefits, you’re not doing your ears any favor by wearing them for too long. Computer speakers can deliver almost the same level of immersive experience while also allowing your hearing organs to breathe a little.

Of course, don’t just go out and get the first one you find that’s within your budget. While lesser quality products will deliver passable audio, it’s only the best computer speakers that can really deliver that level of immersion needed to bring those games, movies, and music to life. You must, therefore, consider sound quality, soundstage, sound imaging, and feature sets when choosing, especially if you plan on using it for gaming and media consumption. 

Elevate your digital life by making a sound investment. The best computer speakers may seem secondary to getting the best graphics card or the best monitors, they’re just as integral to your PC setup if you want to get the most out of your experience. Here are our top picks.

Best computer speakers at a glance

  1. Audioengine A2+
  2. Logitech Z407 Bluetooth Computer Speakers
  3. Logitech G560
  4. Razer Nommo Pro
  5. Harman Kardon Soundsticks III
  6. Edifier Luna E
  7. Creative T100
  8. Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX
  9. Edifier M3200 2.1 Multimedia Audio Speaker System
  10. Creative Pebble Plus

Audioengine A2+

Audioengine A2+ will function with your PC’s USB port for uncompressed audio and amazing sound quality with its built-in DAC. (Image credit: Audioengine)

1. Audioengine A2+

Big things come in small packages

Weight: 1.6kg left, 1.4kg right | Size: 6in x 4in x 5.25in | Drivers: 2.75-inch Kevlar woofers, ¾-inch silk dome tweeters | Supported Connectivity: Wireless with Audioengine’s W3 adapter | Audio Inputs: USB, RCA, 3.5mm stereo mini-jack | Outputs: RCA

Built-in digital-to-audio converter
Uncompressed audio through USB
No included subwoofer

While the Audioengine A2+ arrived on the scene four years back, they are still conceivably among the best computer speakers on the market. These slick-looking speakers will function with your PC’s USB port for uncompressed audio and amazing sound quality with its built-in DAC. The Audioengine A2+ comes sans subwoofer. However, if you really need that deep bass for extra rumble, that’s hardly a deal breaker: mostly because there is an RCA output, so it’s simple to connect an external woofer, which Audioengine also sells separately.

Logitech Z407 Bluetooth Computer Speakers

(Image credit: Logitech)

2. Logitech Z407 Bluetooth Computer Speakers

A whole lotta BOOM for your buck

Weight: 389g (satellites), 2,450g (sub) | Size: 7.87 x 3.70 x 3.35 in (satellites), 9.45 x 9.21 x 7.09 in (sub) | Drivers: 7-inch woofer, 2.5-inch full-range drivers | Supported Connectivity: Bluetooth | Audio Inputs: 1 x micro USB, 1 x 3.5mm jack | Outputs: Subwoofer output

Impressive sound with rumbling sub
Classy, versatile and compact design
Wireless control confusing at first

The Logitech Z407 offers great value in an affordable and appealing package. These minimalist, capsule-shaped speakers deliver great sound quality and a decent amount of volume while offering wireless connectivity, two physical input options, and a versatile design. That subwoofer is surprisingly powerful for its size as well, producing a good amount of rumble for those intense game and movie moments. Finally, that wireless control, while confusing at first, is a nifty addition that adds convenience to its use. If you think that computer speakers are becoming obsolete, these will certainly change your mind.

Read the full review: Logitech Z407 Bluetooth Computer Speakers with Subwoofer 

Logitech G560

The Logitech G560 speakers are one of the best computer speakers for gaming. (Image credit: Logitech)

3. Logitech G560

An RGB light show

Weight: 1.79kg left, 1.79kg right, 5.5kg sub | Size (Satellites): 5.8 x 6.5 x 4.6 inches | Size (Sub): 15.9 x 10 x 8.1 inches | Drivers: 6.5-inch subwoofer, 2-inch tweeters | Supported Connectivity: USB, 3.5mm, Bluetooth | Audio Inputs: USB, 3.5mm stereo mini-jack | Outputs: Headphone

 Brilliant RGB lighting 
 DTS surround technology  
 Expensive 

When it comes to computer accessories, Logitech is a household name. However, the G560 takes the company’s speaker prowess up a level. These are the first Logitech computer speakers created specifically for gaming, and the manufacturer’s hard work has more than paid off. The Logitech G560 speakers are, without a doubt, one of the best computer speakers for gaming. Not only do they have RGB lighting – a must for gaming peripherals in 2021 – but through Logitech’s software, the multi-colored illumination can adjust to any kind of content you consume for a more brilliant, not to mention mesmerizing, experience.

Razer Nommo Pro

The Razer Nommo Pro has a lot to offer and is definitely a sound investment. (Image credit: Razer)

4. Razer Nommo Pro

The ultimate gaming speakers

Weight: 27.6 lbs | Drivers: Down-firing woofer, 0.8-inch silk dome tweeters, 3-inch full range drivers | Supported Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.2 | Audio Inputs: USB, Bluetooth 4.2, 3.5mm stereo mini-jack | Outputs: 3.5mm

Fantastic sound quality 
Razer Chroma 
Razer tax 

The Razer Nommo Pro may have an amusing name and a uniquely funky look, but make no mistake, these are a quality set of speakers that must be taken very seriously, and not only because of its hefty price. Try to combat the urge to run in the opposite direction of that $500 price tag, the Razer Nommo Pro has a lot to offer and is definitely a sound investment. There’s the thundering down-firing subwoofer that’ll blow you away, and then there’s the Razer Chroma feature, making these speakers look just as great as they sound. There are definitely more reasonably priced computer speakers out there, but with this level of quality, the Razer Nommo Pro is worth the cost of entry.

  • This product is only available in the US as of this writing. UK and Australian readers: check out a fine alternative in the Audioengine A2+.  

Harman Kardon Soundsticks III

The Harman Kardon Soundsticks III speaker and sub combo features booming bass. (Image credit: Harman Kardon)

5. Harman Kardon Soundsticks III

Great sound in a cool, aesthetically pleasing package

Weight: 2.04kg | Size: 10in x 2x satellites; 10.8in x 9in subwoofer | Drivers: four 1-inch full range transducers | Supported Connectivity: none | Audio Inputs: 3.5mm jack | Outputs: none

Futuristic look
Tons of bass power
Limited controls

Sure, the Harmon Kardon Soundsticks III may look like a bloom of jellyfish. These translucent computer speakers look more like a modern art installation protesting rising ocean temperatures, but you’ll appreciate them once you hit that power button. These are certainly an excellent speaker system that belong on our best computer speakers list. This speaker and sub combo features booming bass, thanks to its woofer, as well as detailed highs. Finally, you get that amazing sound at a good price, making it ideal for music fans with a mid-range budget.

  • This product is only available in the US and UK at the time of this writing. Australian readers: check out a fine alternative in the Edifier E25 Luna Eclipse. 

Edifier E235 Luna E

Edifier E235 Luna Eclipse offers a powerful but well-controlled bass, as well as great balanced sound. (Image credit: Edifier)

6. Edifier E235 Luna E

Futuristic-looking beauties with an even more gorgeous sound

Weight: 3.6kg | Size: 4.8in x 8.35in x 8.74in | Drivers: 8-inch woofer, ¾-inch silk dome tweeter, 3-inch full-range bass driver (satellites) | Supported Connectivity: Bluetooth | Audio Inputs: Bluetooth, 3.5mm jack | Outputs: USB port for charging, headphone jack

Gorgeous design
Excellent overall sound quality
A bit bass-heavy

The Edifier E25 Luna Eclipse is already a staggering speaker setup that not only has an enticing design, but also sounds terrific. The Luna, which comes in red, white and black colors, offers a powerful but well-controlled bass, as well as great balance with sharp mids and good stereo separation. It even includes a nifty little remote control so you don’t have to get up if you’re feeling lazy. Add the 5.8G subwoofer, connected wirelessly at a 5.8GHz radio frequency, and you’ve got yourself an impressive 2.1 system that’s among the best computer speakers in 2021.

Creative T100

(Image credit: Creative)

7. Creative T100

Ideal for smaller desks

Weight: 1.0kg left, 1.0kg right | Size: 8.2 x 3.7 x 5.1 inches | Drivers: 2 x 2.75″ Full-Range Driver | Supported Connectivity: Up to 10 meters Bluetooth connectivity | Audio Inputs: 3.5 mm, USB FLAC, Optical-in, AUX-in | Outputs: Optical Output

Compact design
Good sound quality
Bluetooth 5.0
Won't blow you away
Limited ports

The Creative T100 proves that you don’t need to have a lot of space or spend a lot of money for great sound. This stereo setup may not blow you away with rumbling bass or surround sound, but it’s great sounding and offers a few connectivity options. That’s impressive considering its compact design and affordable price. And, it’s terrific for music-listening, movie-watching, and even gaming – as long as you’re not really looking for a deeply immersive experience. 

Read the full review: Creative T100

Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX

The THX-certified Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX boasts a wide frequency range of 31Hz to 20kHz and detailed audio quality. (Image credit: Klipsch)

8. Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX

THX-certified speakers that pack a punch

Weight: 0.95kg satellite; 5kg subwoofer | Size: 8.5in x 4.2in x 5.67x satellite; 9.5in x 9.8in x 10.2in subwoofer | Drivers: ¾-inch Poly compression tweeter, 6.5-inc side-firing, long-throw fiber composite cone woofer | Supported Connectivity: none | Audio Inputs: MP3 two-channel soundcard miniplug | Outputs: headphone jack

THX-certified, home theater-quality sound
Stunning value
Misses some low ends

The Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 speaker system offers fantastic, versatile sound. This means regardless of whether you’re listening to music, watching movies or gaming, you’re getting the best computer speaker experience. These THX-certified speakers boast a lot of power, a wide frequency range of 31Hz to 20kHz, and detailed audio quality with strong bass, maximum clarity and great balance. When we say it’s powerful enough to replicate that home theater quality in your living room, we’re not exaggerating. The best part is that the price is very reasonable.

  • This product is only available in the US at the time of this writing. UK and Australian readers: check out a fine alternative in the Logitech Z623 

Edifier M3200 2.1

The Edifier M3200 comes in a unique form. (Image credit: Edifier)

9. Edifier M3200 2.1 Multimedia Audio Speaker System

Audiophile quality for cheaper

Weight: 5.3Kg | Size: 2.91 x 11.1 x 3.5in | Drivers: Subwoofer with 5½ inch driver | Supported Connectivity: none | Audio Inputs: 3.5mm jack | Outputs: Headphone jack

Affordable
Great sound quality
Base distorted at higher levels

Edifier has always been a trusted name in audio, so it’s no surprise that it’s making a two-time appearance on this list. Just like the E25 Luna Eclipse, the Edifier M3200 comes in a unique form – that of an hourglass – because why the heck not? And, just like the E25, this audio speaker system boasts audiophile-level sound. It also comes with a magnetically shielded subwoofer with 5½ inch driver for richer, deeper bass whether you’re gaming or watching The Witcher. What’s more, that price that’s less than $100/£100 is perfect for budget gamers.

  • This product is only available in the US and UK as of this writing. Australian readers: check out a fine alternative in the Jabra SPEAK 510.  

Creative Pebble Plus

Creative’s Pebble Plus is more than good enough for the job. (Image credit: Creative)

10. Creative Pebble Plus

Best budget option

Weight: 0.30kg left, 0.34kg right, 1.05kg sub | Size: 4.8 x 4.5 x 4.5 inches (satellites), 5.9 x 7.7 x 8 inches (sub) | Drivers: 2-inch full range speakers driver | Supported Connectivity: none | Audio Inputs: 3.5mm stereo mini-jack | Outputs: none

Cheap
Quality sound for the price
Unique look
Only 3.5mm input
No other connectivity, wired or otherwise

You don’t need to spend a fortune on a good set of computer speakers. For the budget-conscious consumers, Creative’s Pebble Plus is more than good enough for the job, whether you’re a hardcore gamer or a film fantatic. This 2.1 speaker system, which consists of two far-field drivers angled at a 45-degrees and a down-firing subwoofer, may not be audiophile quality, but it produces great sound for how much it costs. It delivers good highs, mids and lows, and it does a great job minimizing distortion at loud volumes. 

  • This product is only available in the US and UK as of this writing. Australian readers: check out a fine alternative in the Logitech MX Sound.     


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