The best computer speakers for 2023: top audio systems for PC

Editor's Note: December 2022 You should see new entries in our PC speakers guide this month. Gaming audio champ, SteelSeries, has recently launched their new line of PC gaming speakers, and we tested them for you. We've also been busy putting a few bookshelf speakers through their paces to add newer and better products for you to choose from. We have a new number one – the Logitech Z407, which is an excellent value for most people. We also have a new entry: the Vigilant Audio SwitchOne. These bookself speakers are surprisingly small and great-sounding, touting a studio mode that's great for pros. We are also currently testing a few models like the compact, influencer-favorite Edifier G2000 and the retro-futuristic Harmon Kardon Soundsticks 4. Michelle Rae Uy, Buying Guides Editor

The best computer speakers will deliver a more elevated multimedia experience on your PC or Mac. Monitor and laptop speakers (or the cheap bookshelf speakers you found on Amazon) may be good enough. However, if you crave excellent audio and perhaps a bit of rumble when you're listening to music, playing games, or watching the latest blockbusters, only a top-notch PC speaker will do.

Upgrading your audio with the best headphones or the best PC gaming headsets is certainly an option, and many users prefer those over speakers. However, wearing headphones can get fatiguing. Depending on the model, you might be tethered to your desk as well. And, if you’re hoping to share whatever you’re listening to with someone else, those will not do.

Sometimes, only a pair high-quality computer speakers will do the trick. Even if you want to chat with your buddies during a gaming session, you can have an untethered audio setup with one of these speakers. With so many of the best USB microphones coming with algorithms to fend off background noise, you don’t have to worry about feedback or echoes.

We’ve tested quite a few PC speakers and have used our experience in audio peripherals to see which ones are worth considering and which ones are a bust. Below are our top picks of the best computer speakers available right now. So, if you’re in the market for one, we have something for you regardless of your needs or budget.

The best computer speakers for 2023

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(Image credit: Logitech)

1. Logitech Z407 The best computer speakers overall Specifications 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 specifications Colour Black Condition New Today's Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at Walmart (opens in new tab) View at Best Buy (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Impressive sound with rumbling sub + Classy, versatile and compact design Reasons to avoid - Wireless control can be confusing

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.

For your convenience, it comes with a control puck that connects wirelessly so you can change the volume, dial the bass power up/down, play/pause/stop the current content and move forward or go back from up to 20 meters away. We found this dial a bit confusing to use at first, but it’s a nifty addition that adds convenience to its use.

That subwoofer is surprisingly powerful for its size as well, producing a good amount of rumble for those intense game and movie moments. If you think that computer speakers are becoming obsolete, these will certainly change your mind.

Read the full Logitech Z407 review

(Image credit: Creative)

2. Creative Pebble Plus The best budget PC speakers Specifications 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 Today's Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at Walmart (opens in new tab) View at Dell (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Cheap compared to the rest + Quality sound for the price + Unique look Reasons to avoid - 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 budget-conscious consumers, Creative’s Pebble Plus is more than good enough for the job, whether you’re a hardcore gamer or a film fanatic. This 2.1 speaker system may not be audiophile quality, but it produces great sound for how much it costs. In fact, you’d be hard-pressed to find better stereo sound at this price range.

Consisting of two far-field drivers angled at a 45-degrees and a down-firing subwoofer, the Pebble Plus delivers good highs, mids and lows. Not only that, but we found during our tests that it also does a great job of minimizing distortion at loud volumes, which isn’t something you’ll often find on budget speakers.

There are some compromises here, as is expected on inexpensive peripherals, but none of those are too big to put you off. Hands-down, this is the best computer speakers for those on a tight budget.

Read the full Creative Pebble Plus review

(Image credit: Razer)

3. Razer Nommo Pro A premium set of computer speakers designed for gaming Specifications Weight: 27.6 lbs Size: 14 x 17 x 22 cm 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 specifications Colour Black Screen Type LED Condition New Today's Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at Razer (opens in new tab) View at Tomtop WW (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Fantastic sound quality + Razer Chroma Reasons to avoid - You'll need to pay 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 blew us away. 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. And, if you’ve invested in other Razer peripherals, you can sync up that RGB lighting with the rest of your setup.

Read the full Razer Nommo Pro review

(Image credit: SteelSeries)

4. SteelSeries Arena 9 The best computer speakers for gaming Specifications Weight: 2.31kg (front satellites), 5.65kg (subwoofer) Size: 4.13in x 4.97in x 7.72in (front satellites), 9.25in x 9.41in x 12.8in (subwoofer) Drivers: 3-inch woofers, ¾-inch tweeters (front satellites), 2.75-inch woofers, ¾-inch tweeters (rear satellites), 2x 2.75-inch woofer, ¾-inch silk dome tweeter (center satellite), 6.4-inch downward firing woofer (subwoofer) Supported Connectivity: USB, Bluetooth, Optical, Analog 3.5mm Inputs: USB, Optical, Analog 3.5mm Outputs: Optical passthrough, Analog 3.5mm specifications Colour Black Condition New, Refurbished Today's Best Deals View at Best Buy (opens in new tab) View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at eBay (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Full, fun, and engaging audio + Surround sound is epic and immersive Reasons to avoid - RGB lighting could be more extensive - Needs a little extra space for setup

Nothing can replace the experience of real surround sound. Turning on virtual surround sound for a pair of headphones or a set of speakers only approximates that fully immersive experience. And, there aren’t many computer speaker setups that will give you a true 360 degrees of audio.

Well, Steelseries has fixed that with their flagship speaker system, the Arena 9. Comprised of six separate speakers: two front satellites, a center channel speaker, two rear satellites, and a subwoofer, this 5.1 system will transport you, as it did us, into your favorite games and movies instantly.

We find that games especially come alive with the Arena 9s. Audio elements physically circle us when we move our character’s point of view. And, thanks to that subwoofer, we feel the rumble whenever there’s an explosion. Even listening in stereo, the audio sounds detailed, clear and engaging.

So, if you’re considering investing in surround sound, it’s hard to do better than the Arena 9. Just make sure you have the desk space for it.

Read our full SteelSeries Arena 9 review

(Image credit: SteelSeries)

5. SteelSeries Arena 3 The best PC speakers for gamers on a budget Specifications Weight: 1.04kg per speaker Size: 4.57in x 5.98in x 7.95in Drivers: 4-inch woofers Supported Connectivity: Bluetooth, 3.5mm Inputs: 2x Analog 3.5mm, 3.5mm PC Outputs: Bluetooth, Analog 3.5mm specifications Screen Size 4-inch Colour Black Condition New, Refurbished Today's Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at Best Buy (opens in new tab) View at Walmart (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Full, fun, and engaging audio + Surround sound is epic and immersive Reasons to avoid - RGB lighting could be more extensive - Needs a little extra space for setup

The Steelseries Arena 3 are the company’s entry-level speakers. As such, they’re the most stripped down of the company’s product line. And, while you won’t get the rear satellites of the Arena 9 or the subwoofer of the Arena 7, you’re still getting quality sound, an immersive soundstage, and entry into Steelseries’ new audio suite.

Listening to these speakers, we found them to have a solid mid-range and a wide soundstage. Of course, the bass doesn’t go too deep as these are on the smaller side and the high end is slightly veiled.

However, we found that we could play around with the sound quite a bit thanks to the Steelseries’ Sonar Audio Suite. Specifically, there’s a parametric EQ on hand that lets you fine-tune your audio far beyond what most gaming and computer-centric speakers allow. And, if you have a multiple device setup, know that the Arena 3 come with two analog inputs and a multi-function button that lets you switch between the two easily.

Read our full SteelSeries Arena 3 review

(Image credit: Creative)

6. Creative Labs T100 Speakers Another budget option ideal for smaller desks Specifications 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 specifications Colour Black Condition New, Refurbished Today's Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at Newegg (opens in new tab) View at Newegg (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Compact design + Good sound quality for the size + Bluetooth 5.0 Reasons to avoid - Won't blow you away with its performance - Limited ports compared to other options on the list

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 we still found it to be great sounding. That’s impressive considering its compact design and affordable price. As long as you’re not really looking for a deeply immersive experience, it’s terrific for music-listening, movie-watching, and even gaming.

Plus, it offers a few connectivity options. While many bookshelf speakers only limit to a couple of those, this offering from Creative gives you a variety. You’re getting wireless Bluetooth 5.0, 3.5mm AUX-in, optical audio and USB FLAC. You’ll rarely find all options in one computer speaker package. If you’re looking for the best computer speakers for the budget-conscious, you cannot go wrong with this one.

Read the full Creative T100 review

(Image credit: Fluance)

7. Fluance Ai41 The best Bluetooth computer speakers for music Specifications Weight: 3.86kg left, 3.37kg right Size: 7.6in x 6.5in x 10.9in Drivers: 5-inch woofers,1-inch silk-dome tweeters Supported Connectivity: Bluetooth, RCA/3.5mm, Optical Inputs: RCA, Optical Outputs: Subwoofer specifications Colour Black, White Condition New Today's Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at Newegg (opens in new tab) View at Walmart (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Full, high-mid forward sound + Multiple connectivity Reasons to avoid - No USB or USB-C - Not quite enough volume for large spaces

The Fluance Ai41 comes with one major flaw in that it doesn’t come with USB connectivity. But, if you can get around that – after all, you do have Bluetooth, RCA, and optical inputs – you’ll have a hard time finding a set of powered bookshelf speakers that sound as good as these.

We were surprised when testing at how good they sound. The bass is particularly deep on these ported speakers. Almost to the point where we don’t miss having a subwoofer. And, the high-mids are only slightly boosted for a bright yet still rich audio quality.

While we did find it to take up a little more desk space than we would like, we still heartily recommend them. Of course, if you have an unusually cramped desk or are on a budget, you might have to look elsewhere. But, those one-inch silk dome tweeters and five-inch woofers do sound glorious when you turn them up.

Read our full Fluance Ai41 review

(Image credit: Edifier)

8. Edifier E235 Luna E Futuristic-looking beauties with an even more gorgeous sound Specifications 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, Optical Outputs: USB port for charging, headphone jack specifications Condition New Today's Best Deals View at Newegg (opens in new tab) View at Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Gorgeous design + Excellent overall sound quality Reasons to avoid - A bit bass-heavy compared to the competition

The Edifier E25 Luna Eclipse is already a staggering speaker setup. This 2.1 PC speaker system has a unique and appealing design as well as excellent sound quality, elevating your PC audio experience whether you’re listening to music, watching the latest new show or playing your favorite PC games.

The Luna, which comes in red, white and black colors, offers a powerful but well-controlled bass – something that gamers and superhero movie fans can appreciate. But, it’s not all bass power. It also delivers a well-balanced sound 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 2022.

(Image credit: Vigilant Audio)

9. Vigilant Audio SwitchOne Great computer speakers that are great for studio work Specifications Weight: 6.6lbs/pair Size: 7.1 x 7.1 x 4.3 inches Drivers: 4-inch full range Supported Connectivity: Bluetooth Audio Inputs: 3.5mm, RCA, ¼-inch Outputs: Headphone specifications Colour Black Condition New Today's Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Great room-filling sound + Solid connectivity + Compact enough for any desk setup Reasons to avoid - Studio to Hifi switch is subtle - Missing USB

There are a few things that make the Vigilant Audio SwitchOne special. To start, they’re powerful and room-filling speakers that sound excellent despite the fact that there are just two small-ish bookshelf speakers and no subwoofer. And, yes, they come with impressive even without a sub.

They also come with “The Switch” that switches the SwitchOne from a more HiFi sounding stereo speaker setup to one with a flatter, more neutral frequency response perfect for doing studio work. We were even able to use these monitors to mix when tested. Of course, we did find the switch in frequency responses to be on the subtle side.

Since they were meant for use with a computer, we did miss having USB connectivity but it has all the other types of connectivity you could need including Bluetooth. All in all, the Vigilant Audio SwitchOne are a fantastic option if you don’t need USB and can afford their slightly higher price tag.

Read our full Vigilant Audio SwitchOne review

(Image credit: Edifier)

10. Edifier M3200 Audiophile quality for a cheaper computer speaker system Specifications 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 specifications Colour Black, Red Condition New Today's Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at Newegg (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Affordable compared to the competition + Great sound quality for the price Reasons to avoid - Base can sound distorted at higher levels

Edifier has also been a trusted name in audio, which is why it’s making a two-time appearance on this list. But it’s no stranger to making unique-looking satellites, either. And just like the E25 Luna Eclipse, the Edifier M3200 comes in a unique form. Unlike the former’s EVE from Wall-E looking satellites, however, this system’s look like modern hourglasses with blue trimming

It doesn’t fall far from the Edifier tree in terms of sound quality either. This audio speaker system boasts audiophile-level sound, which makes it a terrific choice for PC users with more discerning ears. 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 is surprising, however, is its price. It’s one of the more affordable options on this list.

Read the full Edifier M3200 review

How to choose the best computer speakers for you

Choosing the best computer speakers is more complex than choosing the best laptop or desktop. While you can always go with something more expensive and hope that’s an indication of quality, there aren't clear-cut metrics or numbers to go on as there are with a computer.

There are still some objective considerations, however. Some speakers only connect through an analog 3.5mm connection, while others include USB, optical or Bluetooth connectivity. If you’re a stickler for audio fidelity, a digital connection like USB or optical is necessary for an uncompressed signal. If you care more about a minimalist setup, you should prioritize speakers with Bluetooth. Thankfully, Bluetooth has come a long way and plenty of Bluetooth speakers offer incredible sound. However, if your primary concern is budget, you’ll most likely end up with a set of speakers equipped with an analog connection.

You’ll also want to consider how important that low-end is for you. If you want something that can shake the walls whenever there’s an explosion in the game you’re playing or movie you’re watching, you’ll want a system with a subwoofer.

Consider the speakers' size as well, particularly if you have a small space, and other included features such as an included remote or control pod/puck to easily control the speakers.

The most important consideration, the sound quality, is also the most subjective. Do you prefer bass-heavy audio or want something a bit brighter? Everyone gravitates towards a different sound. You’ll have to consider if you want something with a lot of bass, a brighter sound or a more neutral frequency response.

How we test computer speakers

When we test a pair of computer speakers, we spend hours listening to various media. We use it for audio to watch blockbuster movies and the latest shows on Netflix, listen to multiple genres of music, and play an assortment of computer games.

During our listening sessions, we focus on how well the low-end, midrange and high-end frequencies are represented and how it all affects the speakers' frequency response. Some speakers might have too much high-end, making for an overly bright and unpleasant listening experience. Sometimes, there’s too much low-end, resulting in muddy-sounding audio.

We spend a lot of time living with the speakers, getting a sense of how they sound, if they're appropriate for certain applications and, subjectively, making a judgment call on the audio quality.

Beyond the sound quality, we take into account the different connectivity options and how that impacts what we hear. We compare the sound quality between the different connections and whether the end result has the same audio quality or not.

We consider the build quality as well. We inspect speakers that we test to see what they’re made of and whether the parts look to be made of tougher or cheaper material.

Any extra features are thoroughly tested. If a speaker system comes with a subwoofer, we see how much control we have over it, how loud it can get in comparison to the speakers and how well it mixes with the speakers. Remotes and control pods, also sometimes referred to as pucks, are tested to make sure they work as advertised. And, if there’s any RGB lighting, we take a look at that as well.

Lastly, we take all of that and weigh it against the asking price to see if it’s offering a good amount of value or whether it’s worth its accompanying price tag.

What are the features of a good computer speaker? There are not necessarily any particular features that separate the best computer speakers from subpar ones. It's more a matter of execution. However, you’ll end up with better results if you get something with some kind of digital connectivity, whether that’s USB, Optical or even Bluetooth. Analog speakers can still sound great, but they tend to sound a little more compressed in comparison. With that said, some computer speakers come with some quality of life features that make controlling them easier. A remote or control pod are a welcome addition so you can adjust the volume and possibly other parameters without having to minimize whatever you’re watching or playing.

Which brand speaker is best for PC? There’s no king of the mountain when it comes to the best computer speakers. Plenty of brands offer quality options that will satisfy most people’s needs when it comes to listening to movies, music, or games. The best one for you will somewhat depend on what you spend most of your computer time doing. However, you can count on most peripheral companies like Logitech, Creative and Razer to produce quality products. And, of course, audio-focused companies like Audio Engine and Harmon Kardon produce great speakers as well. Where you can get into trouble with brands is when you’re trying to save money and go with something unknown such as a random manufacturer off of Amazon. While there may not be a best, it’s best to stick with brands that are recognizable and have a track record of making good quality speakers.

How do I set up my computer speakers? Most computer speaker systems come with either 2 or 3 pieces. You’ll end up with a left speaker, a right speaker, and, in some instances, a subwoofer. Setting them up is typically fairly easy. But, you don’t want to just place each speaker on either side of your monitor or laptop. You’ll also want to angle them so that they’re pointing at where your head typically is when you’re sitting at your computer. You’ll notice that some computer speakers are even angled to help with this. You can also move the speakers further out to widen the sound stage if you want to feel a little more immersed. Just make sure to keep them around a few feet away. Subwoofers are meant to go on the floor. Not only are a good number of them downward-firing, meaning the sound is supposed to bounce off the floor before it gets to you, but they tend to move more air than regular speakers. So, if you’re keeping your subwoofer on your desk, you might end up dealing with a lot of unnecessary vibrations. Just keep the subwoofer somewhat close to your desk, whether it’s directly underneath or off to the side. Lastly, there are a few soundbars marketed towards computer use. If you’ve bought one of those, just make sure that it’s centered with you so that you get the most of its most likely limited sound stage.

The Best Computer Speakers for 2023

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Below, we run through a list of our current top picks for wired and wireless computer speakers, whether you’re looking for something stylish, a subwoofer, or a system for mixing audio. Make sure to read past the list for our tips to help you find the best speaker system for your needs, too.

Few things in life are as enjoyable as high-fidelity music. But as you've probably noticed, that music only sounds as good as the system it plays through. Most PCs and Macs don't come with high-quality speakers—and that's to say nothing of the tiny built-in drivers in most laptops. Even if you're on a tight budget, low-cost speakers can noticeably improve your listening experience.

Audioengine A5+ Wireless Best for Audiophiles 4.5 Outstanding Why We Picked It Aside from looking good—the A5+ Wireless speakers are available in satin black, glossy white, or (our favorite) walnut—this bookshelf system delivers high-quality Bluetooth audio. We always approve of showing off the drivers, and this grille-free set houses a handsome 0.75-inch silk dome tweeter and a 5-inch Kevlar woofer combo. Together, they provide a frequency range of 50Hz to 22KHz. Internally, a 24-bit upsampling digital-to-analog converter ensures high-quality Bluetooth playback, with support for the aptX, aptX HD, AAC, and SBC codecs. Who It’s For This speaker system supports a wide range of sound sources—you can stream Bluetooth audio from your computer, plug in a 3.5mm cable, or use an RCA connector. In an era of all-in-one wireless speakers, Audioengine continues to manufacture quality stereo speakers that seamlessly accommodate every possible input. PROS Excellent audio performance with solid bass depth and clarity throughout the frequency range.

Excellent audio performance with solid bass depth and clarity throughout the frequency range. High-quality Bluetooth streaming with 24-bit upsampling.

High-quality Bluetooth streaming with 24-bit upsampling. Wired connectivity options.

Wired connectivity options. Can be used with a subwoofer. CONS No source knob.

No source knob. Limited remote control. Sold By List Price Price Amazon $499.00 $499.00 See It (Opens in a new window) AudioEngine $499.00 $499.00 See It (Opens in a new window) Read Our Audioengine A5+ Wireless Review

Creative Pebble Plus Most Affordable 2.1 System 4.0 Excellent Why We Picked It Too often, budget-friendly just means low quality. But the inexpensive Creative Pebble Plus system delivers far better sound than you would expect for the price. Little details, like the upward angling of the left and right speakers, help provide quality desktop computer audio, while the subwoofer adds some body. Who It’s For If you want a solid 2.1 system, but are looking to spend far less than they typically cost, the Pebble Plus is a reasonable solution. Yes, the subwoofer here is more like a woofer and the required wiring setup isn't very elegant, but these cheap speakers still sound better than they have any right to. PROS Affordable.

Affordable. Powerful audio performance with bright, detailed highs and rich lows.

Powerful audio performance with bright, detailed highs and rich lows. Properly angled drivers. CONS Lots of wires.

Lots of wires. No bass level knob.

No bass level knob. Only one input. Sold By List Price Price Amazon $49.69 $49.69 See It (Opens in a new window) Walmart $49.99 $66.98 See It (Opens in a new window) Newegg $39.99 $39.99 See It (Opens in a new window) Read Our Creative Pebble Plus Review

Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 Most Iconic Design 4.0 Excellent Why We Picked It The SoundSticks have been gracing desktops and flanking computer monitors for over 20 years now, and the most recent anniversary edition updates the familiar-yet-somehow-still-futuristic design in subtle ways. For instance, the speaker system now can stream music over Bluetooth in addition to playing audio via a wired connection. And, as always, the subwoofer still packs plenty of punch. Who It’s For Part alien spaceship, part jellyfish, the transparent SoundSticks 4 system might seem to prioritize design over sound performance but, thankfully, that’s not the case. They combine an iconic style with a little bit of rumble and actual stereo separation. Easy to set up and operate, the only real issue could be finding the best spot for the subwoofer—after all, this is one sub you don’t want to hide under a desk. PROS Balanced, powerful 2.1-channel audio performance

Balanced, powerful 2.1-channel audio performance Iconic transparent design

Iconic transparent design Long cables for ideal stereo separation CONS All physical controls are located on the subwoofer

All physical controls are located on the subwoofer No adjustable EQ or sub settings Sold By List Price Price Amazon $299.95 $299.95 See It (Opens in a new window) B&H Photo Video $299.95 $299.95 See It (Opens in a new window) Read Our Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 Review

Klipsch The Fives Best Connectivity Options 4.0 Excellent Why We Picked It Plenty of computer speakers disappoint in the connectivity department, but not The Fives—you can pair these bookshelf speakers with pretty much any source, including your PC. The Bluetooth-capable stereo set supports the AptX HD codec and also features HDMI, optical, USB, and 3.5mm aux inputs. You even get a dedicated RCA turntable input with a ground-screw terminal and a subwoofer out. Who It’s For The real selling point here is the USB input—its 192kHz/24-bit decoding means you can enjoy true high-fidelity audio playback from your computer’s sound library. That and support for AptX HD make The Fives a solid choice for anyone with lots of hi-res audio files who wants to hear the sonic quality over a wireless or wired connection. They look pretty fantastic, too. PROS Excellent sound signature with crisp, detailed highs and round, rich bass depth

Excellent sound signature with crisp, detailed highs and round, rich bass depth Handsome design, with removable tweed grilles

Handsome design, with removable tweed grilles Lots of connectivity options, including Bluetooth, HDMI, Optical, and an input for turntables

Lots of connectivity options, including Bluetooth, HDMI, Optical, and an input for turntables 192kHz/24-bit decoding from USB inputs CONS Expensive

Expensive No app or EQ support (yet) Sold By List Price Price Amazon $799.00 $459.99 Check Stock (Opens in a new window) Read Our Klipsch The Fives Review

Audioengine A1-MR Best Audioengine Speakers With Wi-Fi 4.0 Excellent Why We Picked It The A1-MR speakers deliver crisp DSP-free audio in a relatively compact design with true stereo separation. And unlike other models from Audioengine, they support Wi-Fi streaming (otherwise, you can connect a computer via a 3.5mm input and stereo gear via the RCA port). Another solid feature for tight spaces: The speakers are video-shielded, which means you can place them close to monitors without affecting the picture. Who It’s For Bluetooth streaming may be convenient, but Wi-Fi offers better fidelity. Thus, if you're streaming from a service like Apple Music that offers lossless audio, Wi-Fi is the way to go. PROS Rich, natural, and detailed audio with no digital signal processing

Rich, natural, and detailed audio with no digital signal processing Multiroom playback via app

Multiroom playback via app Wired aux input and subwoofer output CONS App doesn’t have an EQ

App doesn’t have an EQ Not for those seeking powerful bass

Not for those seeking powerful bass Drivers aren't angled upward for ideal playback Sold By List Price Price Amazon $229.00 $229.00 See It (Opens in a new window) Read Our Audioengine A1-MR Review

Fluance Ai61 Best Bluetooth and Wired Computer Speakers 4.0 Excellent Why We Picked It The Fluance Ai61 speakers make this list for several reasons. Their handsome design and overall sonic clarity are obvious ones, but their solid connectivity options and ability to adjust the EQ via the bundled remote are also advantages. The back panel includes RCA, USB-C, and optical inputs, and you can also stream via Bluetooth. Finally, you can add a subwoofer to bring some deep lows to the mix. Who It’s For If you plan to connect to your computer via USB-C, these speakers are a great choice. PROS Rich, detailed audio performance with true stereo separation

Rich, detailed audio performance with true stereo separation Handsome design

Handsome design Wired and wireless audio options

Wired and wireless audio options Discrete bass and treble controls CONS Lacks serious sub-bass (but offers subwoofer output)

Lacks serious sub-bass (but offers subwoofer output) No companion app

No companion app Can clip the beginning of tracks over Bluetooth Sold By List Price Price Amazon $299.99 $299.99 See It (Opens in a new window) Walmart $479.99 $299.99 See It (Opens in a new window) Read Our Fluance Ai61 Review

Logitech Z407 Best Midrange 2.1 Audio System 4.0 Excellent Why We Picked It Although the Logitech Z407 isn't the most powerful 2.1 option on this list, it gets a nod because of its affordable price. You need to spend more to get true sub-bass levels, but this system can still muster a palpable thump at moderate to high volumes. Logitech gets some little things right here, too—the left and right speakers are angled upwards to meet the your ears. Who It’s For If you’re considering the far less expensive Creative Pebble Plus but want Bluetooth streaming, this is a sensible upgrade that still won't break the bank. PROS Powerful audio performance with rich lows and bright highs

Powerful audio performance with rich lows and bright highs Easy to operate

Easy to operate Affordable CONS Subwoofer can distort at top volumes

Subwoofer can distort at top volumes Hardwired cables are a little short Sold By List Price Price Amazon $119.99 $119.99 See It (Opens in a new window) Read Our Logitech Z407 Review

Pioneer DJ VM-50 Best Value for Studio Monitors 4.0 Excellent Why We Picked It At $338 per pair, the DJ VM-50 speakers are reasonably priced for home studios and deliver quality, accurate sound. There’s some DSP in the chain, but not the heavy-handed kind we often hear on Bluetooth models—they don't apply any sort of compression or limiting to the signal, which means they won't squash your mix’s peaks. There is an overload limiter on the input stage, but this is just a protective measure that rarely engages. Who It’s For DJs, musicians, and home studio enthusiasts who want monitors that deliver accurate audio should appreciate this set because it delivers an ideal balance of lows, mids, and highs. On the back panel, you also get two EQ knobs that respectively adjust bass and treble levels. Each knob has four settings, which means you can fine-tune the output to your room. PROS Powerful, accuracy-focused sound signature

Powerful, accuracy-focused sound signature Adjustable DSP aims for flexibility, not sculpting

Adjustable DSP aims for flexibility, not sculpting Relatively affordable as a pair CONS DSP cannot be bypassed

DSP cannot be bypassed No audio cables included Sold By List Price Price Amazon $169.00 $169.00 See It (Opens in a new window) Read Our Pioneer DJ VM-50 Review

Razer Leviathan V2 Best Desktop Soundbar for Gamers 3.5 Good Why We Picked It The Razer Leviathan V2 soundbar tucks right under a computer monitor and takes up less desk space than separate left and right satellites. The subwoofer makes the system adaptable to many applications, though the customizable built-in LEDs might appeal most to gamers. Who It’s For The combination of a space-saving design, audio clarity, and subwoofer rumble should please gamers and cinephiles alike. The Leviathan V2 is also appropriate for people who just want a little more rumble from their music. PROS Full, crisp sound with thunderous bass

Full, crisp sound with thunderous bass Good stereo imaging

Good stereo imaging Customizable RGB lighting CONS No 3.5mm or optical audio input

No 3.5mm or optical audio input THX Spatial Audio offers limited benefits Sold By List Price Price Best Buy $249.99 $249.99 See It (Opens in a new window) Razer $249.99 $249.99 See It (Opens in a new window) Read Our Razer Leviathan V2 Review

Buying Guide: The Best Computer Speakers for 2023

What are the Best Speakers for a Desktop Computer or Laptop?

To choose the best speakers for your computer, you first need to understand the different types of models you'll encounter most frequently, and those are stereo, 2.1, and surround sound speakers.

Stereo speakers consist of only a left and a right speaker, 2.1 refers to a pair of speakers with a subwoofer, and surround sound ideally involves at least five speakers plus a subwoofer. The role of the subwoofer is to cover deep bass frequencies, generally below 100Hz. A solid sub at a reasonable volume can add rumble to film explosions and depth to kick drums, bass guitars, analog synths, orchestras, and more. Some stereo speaker pairs, however, sound great even without a subwoofer, primarily because their woofers (the drivers dedicated to low-mid and low frequencies below 1KHz) are perfectly capable of handling the bass response.

The vast majority of desktop speakers are stereo pairs. Some have accompanying subwoofers, but you won't likely have more than two or three satellites to deal with. Some serious gamers and cinephiles might want to look for a 5.1-channel (or higher) surround sound system, but the extra cost and inconvenience of placing all those speakers around the room isn't worth it for most users.

There are also one-piece solutions (or one-piece with a subwoofer) that offer plenty of power, but they don't provide the stereo imaging you get from multiple satellites. You might even be able to plug portable Bluetooth speakers into your PC as a one-piece solution if they have a 3.5mm audio input or a USB connection.

Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 (Credit: Harman Kardon)

What Are the Best Bookshelf Speakers?

The term bookshelf speaker generally describes any speaker that can comfortably fit on a bookshelf and is part of a stereo pair or other multiple-speaker setup. However, especially among audiophiles, it has a much more important implication: Bookshelf speakers are small, unpowered stereo speakers. That unpowered part is a very big detail that should please anyone who knows how to set up a high-end home sound system and might frustrate everyone else.

All speakers require power to run. Without electricity flowing into the drivers, a speaker is just a box with some weird paper and metal bits in it. The vast majority of computer speakers, along with all Bluetooth and wireless models, are powered, or "active." That means a built-in amplifier takes the signal it receives and feeds enough power into the drivers to reproduce it. This is very handy because it means you don't need to get a separate amp to drive your speakers; you just plug them into your computer and they work.

Bookshelf speakers, on the other hand, typically work passively and require a separate amp. That means whatever music you want to hear through them needs to be put through the amp first, which then connects to the speakers. They're more expensive and take up more space once you finish the setup, but the benefit is much more powerful and clear sound.

Klipsch The Fives (Credit: Klipsch)

There are a few exceptions in the form of active studio monitors. Here, the distinction between a bookshelf speaker and a computer speaker blurs. Basically, some powered speakers are designed for high-end audiophile use, like home studio mastering. They don't need an amp, but generally sound better and cost more than most consumer-level computer speakers. Of course, you can use them with a computer just as easily, since it's still just a matter of plugging the speakers into your sound card.

We primarily test active speakers that have built-in amps. That covers the vast majority of computer speakers, wireless speakers, and consumer-oriented home theater speakers and soundbars.

How Do I Connect Speakers to My Computer?

You might not think much about extra features when it comes to PC speakers, but there are some things to consider. Do the speakers include bass and treble controls so you can tailor the sound to your tastes? How about a mute button? Or a remote control?

High-quality sound and robust extra features are not necessarily mutually exclusive; it depends on the set. If your PC has a limited number of USB ports, you'll probably want to go with the more common 3.5mm audio output connector, though USB speakers sometimes come with extra features or even software that enables special functions. And, if your PC has Bluetooth, you can stream music wirelessly to any speaker that accepts it (which is the vast majority of portable speakers and a large number of desktop speakers). You just have to deal with potential codec restrictions, however.

Razer Leviathan V2 (Credit: Razer)

How you plan to use your speakers can also help you determine the best option. You probably don't need a mammoth subwoofer if you're listening at work—small speakers with decent clarity might be the wisest choice, particularly if you're just using them to watch YouTube videos or listen to internet radio streams. For home, maybe you want larger or more stylish speakers, and the ability to blast them without distortion (especially if your PC is your main music source). For more, see our guide on how to set up your speakers.

How to Pick Speakers for Recording Music

Are you a musician and want to record and mix music at home? Look for a pair of active studio monitor speakers that represent your work as accurately as possible and don't color the sound in a way that hides flaws in a recording that could show up on other listeners' systems. Audioengine does this nicely. And be sure to pair them with a good microphone.

Best PC speakers in 2022

The best PC speakers deliver impeccable sound to your gaming experience. Sure the best gaming headsets (opens in new tab) will give you a more intimate immersion, but there's nothing like blasting everyone in earshot with the best PC speakers. Whether it's the thrum of your engine in F1 22 (opens in new tab) or the crack of the Kraber unleashing hell in Apex Legends (opens in new tab), the best PC speakers will fill the entire room with your favourite game's resonant goodness.

Deciding on the best PC speakers isn't the simplest task. First you need to figure out how much space you have to spare on your desk. It'll give you an idea of the kind of speaker footprint that's feasible for your setup, or whether you need to get tidying in anticipation. If you have the space under your desk then you should go for the typical 2.1, left/right speaker setup with a sub-woofer on the floor.

Then there's PC soundbars, which have made a punchy comeback recently that puts excellent depth of sound and positional audio on your desk, but stays neatly tucked under your monitor. Some even come with a sub-woofer to really get the bass going. Even Razer has gotten into the PC soundbar game (opens in new tab).

The best PC speakers aren't always cheap, but thankfully, I've earmarked a couple of decent budget options during my extensive testing. We're not all loaded. These are my recommendations for loud, reliable PC speakers.

Best PC speakers

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Image 1 of 4 (Image credit: Future) (Image credit: Logitech) (Image credit: Logitech) (Image credit: Logitech)

1. Logitech G560 The best gaming PC speakers Specifications Weight: 3.9lbs (satellites), 12.1lb (sub) Size: 5.8 x 6.5 x 4.6-inches (sats), 15.9 x 10 x 8.1-inches (sub) Drivers: 6.5-inch subwoofer, 2-inch tweeters Connectivity: USB, 3.5mm, Bluetooth Today's Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Immersive Lightsync RGB lighting + Built in DTS:X Virtual Surround + Solid bass response from subwoofer Reasons to avoid - RGB LEDs don't turn off in standby mode unless manually disabled - Quite loud, even at low volume

I couldn't recommend any computer speakers any more than these, and that's because these ended up being my long-time speakers at my desk at home. The G560s not only sound great, but they also look great too. It's ideal if you want to ditch the gaming headset for a while and play it fast and loose with your volume dial.

Chances are you either love or hate RGB lighting. The PC Gamer office is generally divided on this topic too, but there's one thing we can agree on: Logitech's G560 Lightsync feature is anything but gimmicky. If there's one RGB product I can recommend that will impact your PC gaming experience, this one.

The audio quality and clean-cut design have these speakers stand out among the crowd.

Logitech's software allows you to choose between two control modes for the speakers. Hardware control ditches the software and uses Bluetooth or AUX input for lighting. You get a gentle rainbow color cycle that acts as an audio visualizer, which flashes and brightens to the music's beat. The software control allows you to choose between fixed color, color cycle, breathing, audio visualizer, and screen sampler lighting modes.

The screen sampler, however, is where the G560 shines. Like ambient TV backlighting products (opens in new tab), the software takes user-defined screen areas. It extends the colors outwards to create an immersive lighting experience like Philips' Ambilight tech on TVs. Since a good portion of this effect relies on the rear-facing LEDs, the speakers need to be positioned beside your display with their back against a wall to get the best result. Get it right, though, and the effect is incredible.

Fundamentally, though, the audio quality and clean-cut design have these speakers stand out among the crowd. I love how they sound out of the box, but you can also tweak them within the Logitech G Hub app. There's a lot of bass on offer, but the tweeters are just as capable of throwing out excellent audio.

Even when set to low volume on your PC, these speakers may struggle to keep the noise down, but I didn't pick them for calm and quiet gaming. No, we love the Logitech G560's powerful audio and surprisingly refined RGB lighting. If both of those sound good to you, look no further.

Please read our full Logitech G560 review (opens in new tab).

Image 1 of 3 (Image credit: Creative) (Image credit: Creative) (Image credit: Creative)

2. Creative Pebble Plus The best budget computer speakers Specifications Weight: 5.5lbs Size: 4.5 x 4.8 x 4.5-inches (sats), 5.9 x 7.7 x 8-inches (sub) Drivers: 4-inch subwoofer, 2-inch tweeters Connectivity: 3.5mm Today's Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at CCL (opens in new tab) View at Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Affordable + Small footprint + Excellent clarity Reasons to avoid - Tangle of cables - Bass is a little lacking

When you're out shopping for budget PC speakers below $50, it's easy to be overwhelmed by choice. It doesn't help that reliable brands have multiple options in the same price range. The low-end differences can be minimal, but the Creative Pebble Plus speakers stand apart from the competition with their big sound despite the compact size.

With a total power output of 8W, I found that these speakers pump out crisper audio more than competitors using two to three times the power amount. While they won't produce the loudest sound around, I heard little distortion even with the volume maxed out. The only complaint here is a lack of bass control to complement the convenient volume knob located on the right speaker.

The Pebble Plus speakers may lack some raw oomph, but they make up for it in clarity. This is why we highly recommend these speakers for students and those who move around a lot, as the speakers are small enough to fit on any cramped desk surface. They're easily the most portable system I tried and performed best in a smaller bedroom or office.

Like any other pair of speakers below $50, the Creative Pebble Plus speakers are easily shamed by a mid-range set. You are missing out on wireless connectivity, and there are lots of fiddly, easily tangled wires to deal with if you're moving around a lot. However, these speakers are the clear winner for gamers on a tight budget, and for under $50, these get the job done well.

Image 1 of 2 (Image credit: Logitech) (Image credit: LOGITECH)

3. Logitech Z407 Best speaker and subwoofer combo for around $100 Specifications Weight: 8.8lbs Size: 13.5 x 10.7 x 8.4-inches Drivers: 2.3-inch tweeters, 5 inch subwoofer Connectivity: 3.5mm, Bluetooth, micro usb Today's Best Deals View at Ryman (opens in new tab) View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at John Lewis (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Great Price + Wireless control knob + Easy to set up + Booming sound Reasons to avoid - Short cable runs - Subwoofer needs a little more oomph

If you don't want to stretch your budget to the flashier Logitech G560 speaker set, the company's much more tame Z407 set offers a great alternative for less money. They're effectively a similar set of two tweeters and a subwoofer but ditch all the gamer stylings and lights of the fancier kit.

The Logitech Z407s pretty much win the award for most deceptively awesome computer speakers around. This 80W speaker system connects via Bluetooth, 3.5mm headphone jack, or micro USB, so you can easily connect to them with your phone, gaming laptop, or PC. Keeping with the wireless theme, I fell in love with the wireless control knob, which let me control my media with satisfying spins.

That's one of the key benefits over the much cheaper Creative Pebble Plus, but don't ignore their simple and effective design. The two tweeters come with small stands for your desk, and the subwoofer is compact enough to not take up to much space under your desk.

What was not satisfying was the unusually short 4ft cables, which limit how you can set them up. However, being able to lay the speakers vertically or horizontally is a nice touch. The sound achieved surprisingly balanced audio for a speaker set for only $80—a strong yes for anyone looking to upgrade their current dinky desktop speakers.

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Best microphone for streaming (opens in new tab) | Best SSD for gaming (opens in new tab) | Best CPU for gaming (opens in new tab)

Image 1 of 2 (Image credit: Razer) (Image credit: Razer)

4. Razer Nommo Chroma Simple yet stylish computer speakers Specifications Weight: 4.41lbs Size: 5.5 x 6.7 x 8.7-inches Drivers: 3-inch Connectivity: USB, 3.5mm Today's Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at (opens in new tab) View at CCL (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Fun, subtle RGB + Can go very loud Reasons to avoid - Bulky - No dedicated subwoofer

The Razer Nommo Chroma is a huge upgrade from your old dinky desk speakers. The large cylindrical speakers look a bit like the engines of the USS Enterprise but provide crisp, clear audio and deep bass. That bass is driven by rear facing bass ports that offer a more booming response on the low-end than your traditional two-tweeter setup might. Though we do miss a dedicated subwoofer with this package.

The RGB ring under the speakers is a really nice touch, and once again it feels like these computer speakers are rather tastefully designed. Perhaps the best bit of the Nommo Chroma design is that one speaker offers volume and bass knobs, which really help keep the noise down at night if you don't want to wake up your bedfellows. The bass can't crank up as high as some on this list, but at least the automatic gain control keeps it distortion-free for the most part.

At $150, Razer's Nommo Chroma directly competes with several other options on this list. They may not match the sound quality and feature set of the Logitech G560, but the Nommo remains a smart choice for PC gamers who want a pair of great-sounding speakers without the hassle of moving around a sub-woofer. I'd guess that's mostly people that plan to move around a whole bunch and want something simple, otherwise the Logitech Z407 is a less flashy but more full-featured option.

Image 1 of 4 (Image credit: Logitech) (Image credit: Creative) (Image credit: Creative) (Image credit: Creative)

5. Creative Sound Blaster Katana V2 Soundbar Best gaming soundbar Specifications Weight: 3.4lbs Sound Bar, 14.1lb (Sub Woofer) Size: 23.6 x 3.7 x 2.4-inches (Sound Bar) 5.9 x 14.4 x 14.4-inches (Sub) Drivers: 2.5-inch (64mm) Upfiring Midbass Drivers, 1.3-inch (34mm) High-excursion Tweeter, 5.25-inch (133mm) Subwoofer Driver Connectivity: Optical, 3.5mm, Bluetooth, NFC, USB-C, AUX Today's Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at Creative Labs (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Versatile + Well designed + Plenty of connections + Designed for gaming Reasons to avoid - Bluetooth issues - Expensive for a soundbar - Large for some desks - Cumbersome app

It's been a while since we had a soundbar on this list. Mainly because many soundbars out there are tuned and made for TVs and not PC gaming. Often, the soundbar is too big for your desk or too small, and the sound lacks any oomph. However, that's not the case here, and the Sound Blaster Katana V2 earns a top spot among computer speakers during our time testing it.

The Sound Blaster Katana V2 is a significant upgrade from last year's model with a sleeker look and, more importantly, better-sounding tweeters and subwoofer. They're well placed to face your ears while gaming at a desk and pretty powerful. The subwoofer's 5.25-inch drivers provide the V2 that little kick in the butt you want when you playing shooters and still have a decent enough soundscape for listening to music. Thanks to its many connectivity options, it can also be plugged into pretty much anything you own.

You are sorely mistaken if you thought this soundbar would miss out on RGB lights. The Katana V2 has bright RGB lighting that accents the bar's underside and adds a little flair. Though this is quite a large unit for any desk, it might be a tight fit if you don't have much room to spare for the near 24-inch soundbar.

The downside to the Katana V2 is the hefty $350 price tag, which makes it more expensive than most gaming soundbars you can buy right now. Another problem was setting up premium features like SXFI, and Battle mode has to be set up through a cumbersome app. Some nagging odd Bluetooth connectivity issues drove me a bit mad. Weirdly enough, the fix was cycling through different inputs every time.

The Sound Blaster Katana V2 is a great soundbar. It's small enough to sit comfortably on a decent-sized desk without taking it over and loud enough to easily be featured as your living room sound system (thanks to its subwoofer).

Image 1 of 5 (Image credit: LG) (Image credit: LG) (Image credit: LG) (Image credit: LG) (Image credit: LG)

6. LG UltraGear GP9 Best wireless speaker Specifications Weight: 3.4lbs Size: 14.8 x 3.3 x 4.2-inch Drivers: Tweeter 20mm x 2, Woofer Unit 2-inch x 2 Connectivity: Optical, 3.5mm, Bluetooth, NFC, USB-C, AUX Today's Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at Overclockers UK (opens in new tab) View at (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Wireless + Great Surround Sound + Good battery life Reasons to avoid - Very expensive - Difficult to pick out team chat from in-game audio

At a glance, it's easy to mistake the GP9 as just a standard gaming soundbar. It's way more than that. For starters, one of its many tricks is that the GP9 can act as a wireless speaker with around 5 hours of battery life. So this means you can drag this small speaker right to the living room and give your TV a sound boost (assuming it's Bluetooth) or connect your phone and enjoy some tunes outside.

The tiny three-pound, 15-inch speaker, does a fantastic job of producing virtual 3D surround sound using its FPS mode setting. If it is late and you can't blast audio, the speaker will output 7.1 virtual surround sound to any headset you plug into it with a 3.5mm headphone jack. It plays nice with multiple devices and consoles, and an easy-to-understand smartphone app does all your customizations like RGB lighting and EQ options.

Another feature you won't find in other entries on the list is that this Bluetooth speaker has a built-in mic for voice chat. Between work calls and Discord chatting, my voice was clear and sounded good. If you're someone who hates wearing headsets all day, it's a nice feature.

However, I did find myself having some difficulties trying to parse between voice chat and the sounds of gunfire and zombie death gargles during more hectic sessions of Back 4 Blood. When things get wild, it's hard to hear your teammates let alone try to have a conversation with them without feeling like you need to scream to be heard despite its in-game sound-canceling working its best.

The GP9 pretty much does everything and then some, which would explain the super-high $499 price point. But if you are looking for an incredibly versatile gaming speaker that sounds incredible and can do it all. The built-in microphone is nice, but I don't see it replacing a headset/microphone combo for team games that require a little more coordination.

Image 1 of 4 (Image credit: Ruark) (Image credit: Ruark) (Image credit: Ruark) (Image credit: Ruark)

7. Ruark MR1 Best looking computer speakers Specifications Weight: 7.7lbs per pair Size: 6.6 x 5.1 x 5.3-inches Drivers: Ruark Audio 20mm, long throw 75mm woofer Connectivity: Bluetooth, optical, 3.5mm Today's Best Deals Check Amazon (opens in new tab) Visit Site (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Beautifully Designed + Great Sound + Compact size Reasons to avoid - No USB connection - Lack of gaming features

The reason we like the MR1 isn't that they are powerful compact Bluetooth speakers, but they are maybe hands-down one of the best-looking bookshelf speakers we've tested. Something about the walnut finish and gray fabric grill screams classy.

It's not always about looks, though, and the MR1s doesn't disappoint in the sound department. They deliver mighty powerful audio and hit you with some strong bass without needing a subwoofer (though you can plug one in).

While the MR1 is hands down one of the best pairs of computer speakers we've gotten to mess with, they aren't gaming speakers. There are no custom EQs or preset game modes though I'd argue that these punchy speakers already do a great job and don't need to be tweaked. Out of the box, these Ruarks make listening to music an absolute joy and turn chaotic action games like Back 4 Blood into near cinematic experiences.

Though, I was bummed to see no USB as a supported connection. This limits you to Bluetooth, optical, and 3.5mm connections, which isn't the end of the world, but if you want to plug in a PS5, you have to do it through 3.5mm from the Dualsense controller. Not the most elegant solution.

The Ruark MR1 Bluetooth speakers' superior sound quality and design make it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to jazz up their workspace despite a lack of gaming features. But honestly, you won't care about any of that after ten minutes of listening to these speakers in action.

The best computer speakers FAQ

Do I need a 2.1, 5.1, or 7.1 setup? You'll mostly find 2.1 setups for the PC market covering just left/right channels and a subwoofer—perhaps more often than that, even devoid of a subwoofer for a 2.0 setup. That's mainly because that fits the bill for a desktop and monitor, with the speakers in front of the user for decent stereo sound. Living room speaker setups and home cinema systems will take that a little further, often offering at least five surrounding speakers in most cases. You could hook such a system up to your PC and find decent support for such a configuration, but we're hesitant to recommend such a setup due to the sheer number of wires involved around a single desk. It doesn't bear thinking about. Some companies will tout virtual 5.1 to make up for the lack of physical speakers, often at the expense of sound quality, including Windows' Sonic function. Don't forget many games use clever 3D audio techniques to generate positional game audio with great accuracy, so you may find you don't need much of a helping hand.