Outboard computer speakers have become a common addition to many personal computer setups. Their primary purpose is to enhance the user’s listening experience- whether used for music, gaming, virtual conferencing, or other applications. Computer speaker systems are available in a variety of styles, sizes and some have additional capabilities.
This article will discuss our ten favorite computer speaker setups on the market by analyzing their technical and practical specifications. Be sure to read our buyer’s guide and FAQ section to help you decide on your new set of computer speakers!
Our Pick!
Audioengine A2+ Bluetooth Computer Speakers
The Audioengine A2+ premium powered wireless speakers are made to connect to any music player effortlessly while providing you with clear sound that fills a room.
Quick Pick – Our Awards!
Best Overall Computer Speakers
The Audioengine A2+ Wireless Speakers are available at a great price point that provides you with fantastic value for your money. A highly versatile and easy-to-use set of speakers that will last a lifetime.
Best For Music
Designed as entry-level studio reference monitors, the Presonus Eris 3.5 Speakers are an excellent beginner’s first pair of studio speakers. Crystal clear and accurate sound replication at a great price, plus additional functions to make it more versatile.
The Budget-Friendly Choice
Our most affordable option on this list happens to be the best bang-for-the-buck. Creative Pebble Plus computer speakers are a great-sounding 2.1 speaker system for under $50.00.
The Best For Gaming
Enhance your gaming experience with the immersive sound and visuals of Logitech’s G560 simulated surround sound speakers with effective RGB lighting.
Best Wireless Computer Speakers
Audioengine appears on our top 10 list again with their Audioengine A5+ wireless computer speakers that can function over an extensive range while maintaining exceptional audio quality.
The Most Energy Efficient
Before we jump into our top 10 list, let’s learn a little about computer speakers and some audio terminology I’ll be using throughout this article.
What is a Computer Speaker?
A computer speaker is explicitly designed to be used with a personal desktop or laptop. While certain speaker models are sold specifically as computer speakers, this isn’t the only type of speaker one should consider when adding audio to their computer setup.
Two primary types of speaker systems are sold for computer use. The first is a 2.1 surround sound system. This is a common approach to computer audio. These setups usually consist of small left and right speakers (often 2-way speakers, with a small midrange woofer and a tweeter) and a dedicated sub-woofer. We also see other surround sound variants, such as 5.1 and even 7.1 being readily available on the market. In most cases, these larger surround sound systems become more of a nuisance than a pleasure due to the complexity of speaker placement.
Bookshelf speakers that are actively powered, on the other hand, provide a practical and affordable solution to computer audio. Because they are active, they don’t require an amplifier and can usually be plugged directly into your computer with an auxiliary cable.
For this article, we’ve included both of these types of computer speakers, the types sold specifically towards PC users and then also actively powered bookshelf speakers that work well for computer use.
Our Selection of the 10 Best Computer Speakers
Here are our selections for the top computer speakers, along with product descriptions to help you find which will suit you.
1. Audioengine A2+ Wireless Speakers
Size
4.0” x 5.25” x 6.0”
Freq. Response
65Hz – 22kHz
Sensitivity
>95dB
Power
60W
Technical Specifications
Speaker Dimensions: | 2.75” Woofers and 0.75” Tweeters |
Connectivity Options: | 3.5mm Jack, RCA, USB, Bluetooth |
Weight: | 6.61 lbs |
Audioengine, the Texas-based audio company, is well-respected in the community for consistently good products. Their involvement with other reputable audio, music, and technology companies only adds to their reputability. Aside from high-quality speaker systems, Audioengine also manufactures Bluetooth speakers, headphone amplifiers, and assorted audio accessories.
Their A2+ Bluetooth Wireless Computer Speaker setup is based on their previously developed A2 Speaker system. The A2+ contains added features such as Bluetooth connectivity options and a USB input, enabling the user to access the internal DAC.
Sound Quality and Performance
Sound quality is the most crucial aspect behind every speaker, and the Audioengine A2+ speakers produce an exceptional result considering their minuscule design. The A2+ offers a variety of ways to connect your device to the speaker.
Compared to most medium-sized smart speakers, the A2+ speakers can seriously deliver some power. You get a little less bass than medium-sized smart speakers, but the overall sound quality is much better. The extension is very similar to the A2+ speaker and medium-sized ones as they both struggle below 100 Hz, but the A2+ does so without introducing audible DSP artifacts.
The treble and midrange are also pretty good; however, there is a lower midrange bump. The bump is not detrimental to the presentation, but it was probably an attempt to get a slightly more cumbersome presentation in a system that is a little light on bass. In response to this, Audioengine does still make a suitable subwoofer for the A2+ speaker.
Connectivity Options
When connecting to a PC, the easiest option would be through the USB port found at the back, as it avoids another ADC step in the signal chain. Once you plug the USB cable in, your PC should immediately recognize the device and be ready for use.
Other ways of connectivity are through the implementation of your laptop or smartphone using Bluetooth. The A2+ speaker comes with Bluetooth version 5, which provides better sound quality, further range, and increased battery life. When tested with a smartphone, the connection was extremely strong and did not drop within 60 meters, as can be expected with Bluetooth 5.
What’s in the box?
Audioengine A2+ Wireless Speakers Conclusion
The Audioengine A2+ speakers are small speakers designed for use as computer speakers or in smaller rooms. You shouldn’t compare them against large floor standing speakers or flat panels. Taking into all these factors, they are very musical and perform great considering their price and size.
These speakers are not designed to fill a living room with sound, but they sound much bigger than they actually are in a smaller room, like a bedroom or office. Remember, the larger the room these speakers are placed, the more the bass will get lost, and the midrange will prevail. If you’re looking for something a little more powerful with a slight improvement in audio quality and Bluetooth connectivity range- take a look at Audioengine’s A5+ speakers, reviewed later in this list.
2. Logitech’s G560 Gaming Speakers
Size
10” x 8.1” x 15.9”
Freq. Response
40Hz – 18KHz
Sensitivity
84dB
Power
240W
Technical Specifications
Speaker Dimensions: | 148mm x 166mm x 118mm (Satellites) 404mm x 255mm x 207mm (Sub) |
Connectivity Options: | USB, 3.5mm Jack, Bluetooth 4.1 |
Weight: | 12.10 lbs |
Computer technology giants Logitech yet again revolutionized the gaming scene with their G560 Lightsync computer gaming speakers. The main selling point of these speakers is their ability to project color-themed lighting onto a wall behind them, based on your on-screen activity. This is done at no expense of sound quality, which is nothing short of incredible!
Logitech has designed the G560 Lightsync system with only the user’s comfort and overall experience in mind. Advanced 3D audio simulation technology and light synchronization techniques further enhance the interactive media experience. The user can select from over 16.8 million lighting schemes for front or rear projection.
The tabletop satellites are lightweight and compact, while it is recommended you place the subwoofer dead-center between the two ‘top’ drivers for maximum audio enhancement and balance.
Sound Quality & Performance
When looking at the sound quality of Logitech’s G560 computer speakers, I can find no flaws here. As they designed the speaker for gaming use, I can assure a truly immersive and exciting experience.
Aside from quality, powerful drivers fed through 240W Peak RMS, the downward-firing subwoofer provides enough thunderous rumble while the desktop satellites are positioned at a tactical angle to enhance realism by simulating a 3-dimensional surround sound environment.
These specifications, of course, will allow for excellent results in film viewing on your computer. I would not recommend using these from a far distance or for music purposes. It is important to note that the simulated surround sound system is not compatible with Apple Mac OSX computers.
Connectivity Options
The G560 Lightsync allows the user to connect devices via Bluetooth, USB, or a 3.5mm jack. Up to 4 devices can be simultaneously paired and toggled using the Logitech Easy-Switch.
What’s in the box?
Logitech’s G560 Computer Speakers Conclusion
Overall, the Logitech’s G560 computer speakers are an excellent pair of speakers that will, without a doubt, satisfy most needs and prove to last. If you’re looking for an enhanced interactive media system, read no further! If the G560 system is a little overwhelming to you, Logitech also has a great set of 2.1 monitors, known as the Z407 Bluetooth Speakers. These feature Bluetooth connectivity with a strong line-of-sight pairing strength of up to 30m and are fully wirelessly controlled by a remote. They do not include the synchronized light features and 3D-style audio but are available at a far more affordable price point.
3. Harman Kardon SoundSticks III Speaker System
Size
11” x 11.3” x 15.5”
Freq. Response
40Hz – 18KHz
Sensitivity
80dB
Power
140W
Technical Specifications
Speaker Dimensions: | 6” Subwoofer, 4 x 1” Satellites |
Connectivity Options: | 3.5mm Jack |
Weight: | 5.5 lbs |
Founded proudly in the USA, Harman Kardon’s Soundsticks III is an admired audio device for several reasons. Firstly, its unique futuristic appearance is a sight to admire! The speaker and subwoofer combo is considered a milestone in Harman Kardon’s history. The device features a total of eight full-range speakers, as well as a single active downward-firing subwoofer to achieve crystal-clear audio quality. It is compatible with a wide array of media devices and requires minimal wiring.
Sound Quality & Performance
The innovative, space-age-looking speaker system features 2 line array-style speaker configurations- each consisting of four drivers per side. Each driver acts as a full-range replication device. To suit your listening position, you can adjust the satellite’s angle.
The subwoofer provides low-end rumble while aiming such frequencies toward the floor rather than the walls or room, thus reducing room characteristics into the mix. The volume and mute controls are situated on the unit itself, using touch-sensitive buttons to allow you to easily adjust levels on the fly.
Connectivity Options
Harman Kardon’s SoundSticks III speaker system can only offer connection via a stereo 3.5mm jack output. This can be considered disappointing for those looking to use the device with Bluetooth or USB connections – but at least consistent quality can be expected when setting up for your computer or home entertainment center.
What’s in the box?
Soundsticks III Speaker System Conclusion
The Harman Kardon’s Soundsticks III is an overall good-sounding speaker system with an eye-catching design. It is fairly limiting as far as connectivity is concerned, but the quality of audio replication makes up for this. A highly versatile speaker setup! I would personally recommend this setup for gaming, music, and film viewing applications.
4. Creative Pebble Plus Computer Speakers
Size
4.8” x 4.7” x 4.6”
Freq. Response
50Hz to 20 kHz
Sensitivity
75dB
Power
16W
Technical Specifications
Speaker Dimensions: | Satellites: 116mm x 122mm x 115mm Subwoofer: 150mm x 195mm x 202mm |
Connectivity Options: | 3.5mm Auxiliary Input |
Weight: | 5.45 lbs |
Possibly the most affordable computer speaker system on this list, the Creative Pebble Plus 2.1 setup provides plenty of bang for the buck. Seriously compact yet powerful enough for most uses and even includes a volume boost function!
Sound Quality & Performance
The Creative Pebble Plus 2.1 computer speaker system consists of two compact satellites and a subwoofer, which will provide a surprisingly fat sound for its size. Small full-range drivers situated at a 45-degree angle offer an ideal listening position to achieve the best quality sound clarity and power from these speakers. The standalone downward-firing subwoofer delivers additional depth and power to your overall listening experience.
Connectivity Options
One downside of this speaker is that the Creative Pebble Plus 2.1 setup can only connect via a 3.5mm auxiliary cable or jack. Making it ideal for use on your desktop or possibly even by your television system (if you’re seated within the optimum listening zone) but can be limiting under certain circumstances.
What’s in the box?
Creative Pebble Plus 2.1 Computer Speaker Conclusion
This is a well-made and great-sounding set of speakers that you can utilize for various applications in the office, gaming station, or home entertainment setup! Another starter pair of speakers that are available at a great price but deliver above-par definition and results.
5. Bose Companion 2 Series III Multimedia Speakers
Size
5.9” x 3.1” x 7.5”
Freq. Response
70Hz – 35kHz
Sensitivity
85dB
Power
16.2W
Technical Specifications
Speaker Dimensions: | 2 x 2.5” Full-Range Driver |
Connectivity Options: | 1 x 3.5mm Jack Input, 1 x 3.5mm Headphone Output |
Weight: | 3.97 lbs |
They are known as the manufacturer of audiophile-grade speakers for home entertainment use; Bose steps into the computer audio game with their Companion 2 Series III Multimedia Speakers. You can use this speaker set for computers, television, stereo, or cellphone; however, they are specifically designed for use at one’s desktop and just happen to be Bose’s most affordable computer speaker setup.
Sound Quality & Performance
Bose professional speakers always guarantee a full-bodied, immersive, and crystal-clear sound quality for all applications. Stereo spread is another focus here – Bose has emphasized achieving a wide soundstage to ‘open up’ the listening experience and perceived distance and immersion. The Bose Companion 2 Series III is capable of reaching high volume levels while still maintaining its clear and precise sound reproduction qualities- which makes it great for practically all purposes.
Connectivity Options
The Bose Companion 2 Series III Multimedia Speakers offer connectivity via a 3.5mm auxiliary input only- ideal for desktop situations but can be limiting if you are looking for a USB connection or wireless device pairing.
On the plus side, you can connect a second device using the aux input to extend media beyond the resources on your computer alone. The speakers also include a 3.5mm headphone output for easy connection without having to constantly unplug and plug your speaker system. You can control volume by using the knob, and the headphone jack is situated next to it.
What’s in the box?
Bose Companion 2 Series III Multimedia Speakers Conclusion
If you are looking for an affordable computer speaker set that sounds great for the price, the Bose Companion 2 Series II Multimedia Speakers will certainly not disappoint. While they are a fairly limiting system as far as connectivity and versatility are concerned- if all you need is a simple, good-sounding pair of speakers for your media, I can still strongly recommend this device. A great purchase for the price!
6. PreSonus Eris E3.5 Bluetooth Speaker
Size
6.4” x 5.6” x 8.3”
Freq. Response
80Hz – 20kHz
Sensitivity
100dB
Power
50W
Technical Specifications
Speaker Dimensions: | 3.5” Driver |
Connectivity Options: | 1 x Stereo 3.5mm, 2 x Balanced TRS, 2 x Unbalanced RCA, Bluetooth |
Weight: | 1.00 lbs |
Professional studio engineering product manufacturers PreSonus have a well-respected reputation in the industry. They are known for producing devices, accessories, and equipment for everyone from beginner to professional experience and standards. Their Eris 3.5 speaker system is a great purchase for those looking to get involved in music production or more critical listening.
Sound Quality & Performance
When looking at the Eris 3.5’s sound quality, you really can’t get much better than this for the price, convenience, and versatility. It is worth noting that the brand designed these speakers to replicate sound quite accurately with minimal enhancement and tonal coloration. Low and High tuning controls are available onboard for you to adjust the frequency response; however, I feel this defeats the purpose of these reference monitors.
So if you’re looking for boosted bass and sharp, high frequencies- I would recommend checking out some other speaker systems on this list. Presonus’s Eris 3.5 is ideal for music lovers and creators, film fanatics, and die-hard gamers. They enable you to experience your chosen media as intended by the creator. A nifty additional function is Bluetooth connectivity options and various input ports allowing wired connections to these speakers through multiple mediums.
Connectivity Options
The Presonus Eris 3.5 Bluetooth Reference Monitors can connect to various devices employing a wide selection of connectivity options. One of the main selling points of these speakers is their ability to connect to your media players via Bluetooth, but other routes are obtainable. Alternative connectivity options include stereo 3.5mm (or ‘Aux) connections, Left and Right TRS cable, and unbalanced RCA.
What’s in the box?
Presonus Eris 3.5 Speaker Conclusion
The Presonus Eris 3.5 is a fantastic pair of speakers for virtually any use, professional or recreational. The Eris 3.5’s are available at a ridiculously great price for their function, quality, and reputation. My personal favorite on this list!
7. Audioengine A5+ Wireless Computer Speaker System
Size
22” x 11” x 15”
Freq. Response
50Hz – 22kHz
Sensitivity
>95dB
Power
150W
Technical Specifications
Speaker Dimensions: | 5” Woofers, ¾” Tweeters |
Connectivity Options: | 3.5mm Stereo Jack, RCA, Bluetooth |
Weight: | 13.50 lbs |
An improved version of our previously discussed A2+ Plus Bluetooth Wireless Computer Speaker System, Audioengine’s A5+ Plus includes all the same functions and features at a higher performance level and includes a remote control.
Sound Quality & Performance
Top-class audio components are used to manufacture the Audioengine A5+ Plus Speaker System, which, in turn, provides exceptional audio quality that could comfortably satisfy the most critical of audiophiles.
I would recommend these speakers for practically any purpose, primarily music, film, and gaming. The A5+ system sounds great at ear level, so the stands from Audioengine are definitely worth the extra bucks and don’t be shy to crank these units to fill the room with a well-rounded sound.
Connectivity Options
Audioengine’s A5+ speakers offer connectivity via Bluetooth, RCA, and a 3.5mm jack. They made all the connectors using A-grade mechanisms, and the Bluetooth connection can operate over a range of up to 30m.
Pair of Audioengine A5+ Wireless Powered Speakers, Bluetooth Antenna, 3.75m Speaker Wire, Power Supply & Cord, 2m 3.5mm Mini-Jack Audio Cable, Solid aluminum remote control Microfiber Speaker bags and Cable Bags, Setup Guide, Brochure
What’s in the box?
Audioengine’s A5+ Speaker Conclusion
A seriously impressive pair of entertainment monitors if you’re willing to spend the money on them. Great for all uses and will last a lifetime if taken care of! If these are too excessive for your current situation, look at Audioengine’s A2+ Speaker, discussed earlier in this list. The A2+ is a smaller, less powerful speaker set with many of the same features.
8. Edifier R1280DB Powered Bluetooth Speakers
Size
7.7 x 5.7 x 9.2”
Freq. Response
55Hz – 20kHz
Sensitivity
>85dB
Power
42W
Technical Specifications
Speaker Dimensions: | 4” Woofer 13mm Tweeter |
Connectivity Options: | Bluetooth, Optical, 3.5mm Jack |
Weight: | 12.43 lbs |
The Edifier R128DB Bluetooth Speakers are an elegantly designed and high-performing speaker set for your desktop or home theatre. They are on the market at an incredibly affordable price considering their performance and functionality.
Sound Quality & Performance
Extreme versatility is expected here, with the onboard equalization controls located on the unit’s side panel. Allowing for complete customization of the resulting audio to suit your exact needs – whether it be for enhanced low-end for bass-heavy music or immersive gaming or action films, or boosted high-end clarity for radio, podcasts, and news.
Edifier designed these Bluetooth speakers as a bookshelf speaker set; these are perfectly capable of handling computer, phone, iPod, vinyl, stereo, or television sound without any hassles or disappointing quality.
Connectivity Options
As the name suggests, Edifier’s R1280DB speakers are Bluetooth compatible, with a long-range connection being entirely possible using strong Bluetooth transmission technology without sacrificing audio quality. If you prefer a wired connection, Edifier has you sorted with a wide array of connectivity choices, including optical, coaxial, R, CA, and 3.5mm auxiliary. You can control the speakers from afar using the wireless remote if necessary.
What’s in the box?
Edifier R1280DB Speaker Conclusion
The Edifier R1280DB speakers is an all-around great set of wireless speakers, available at an incredible price. Great sound quality with tweakable characteristics, coupled with almost every connection compatibility you could ask for, you can’t go wrong here with your money!
9. Klipsch The Fives Powered Speaker System
Size
18.5 x 17.5 x 13.5”
Freq. Response
50Hz to 25kHz
Sensitivity
109dB
Power
320W
Technical Specifications
Speaker Dimensions: | 4.5” Woofer 1″ Tweeter |
Connectivity Options: | RCA, Bluetooth, USB, HDMI |
Weight: | 28.25 lbs |
The Klipsch The Fives Powered Speaker System is a sophisticated pair of bookshelf speakers from one of the usual suspects in our ‘best list’ articles, Klipsch. The Fives Powered Speaker System is highly versatile, elegant, and easy to use.
Sound Quality & Performance
You can expect the Klipsch Fives to deliver a powerful and crisp sound that fills any environment with nothing but full-bodied, colorful tones. The speakers are constructed from exceptional quality components and engineered by some of the best in the industry- this guarantees a long-lasting, entertainment-enhancing speaker set.
Connectivity Options
The Klipsch Fives Powered Speaker System can connect to your media devices through several mediums. These include RCA and Bluetooth, which simplify the pairing process for most devices but also offer HDMI and USB for some high-fidelity audio quality and ease of connection through computers, laptops, and other media centers such as DVD, Smart TV, or external hard drives.
What’s in the box?
Klipsch Fives Powered Speaker System Conclusion
If the Klipsch Fives slots into your budget for a pair of entertainment monitors, these speakers will most definitely not disappoint you in any way. This speaker system sure just made my wish list!
10. Logitech Z407 Bluetooth Computer Speakers
Size
13.39”x 8.27”x 10.75”
Freq. Response
40Hz – 20kHz
Sensitivity
75dB
Power
80W
Technical Specifications
Connectivity Options: | Bluetooth, 3.5mm Aux, or USB |
Weight: | 6.26 lbs |
The Logitech Z407 Computer Speaker is a compact and highly affordable speaker system from computer industry legends Logitech. The Z407 Bluetooth computer speakers are comparable to our previously discussed G560 Lightsync speakers in many ways; however, the Z407’s are considerably simpler and lack some features.
Sound Quality & Performance
As with virtually all of Logitech’s speaker designs, the Z407’s will without a doubt provide immersive and crystal-clear sound across the audio spectrum. Modern-looking oval-shaped satellites can be placed vertically or horizontally to comfortably suit your personal layout preferences. The downward-projection subwoofer can easily bring any room to life and further enhance your gaming or film viewing experience.
Connectivity Options
You can connect to your Logitech Z407’s using several connectivity options, including Bluetooth, USB, or 3.5mm auxiliary cables.
What’s in the box?
Logitech Z407 Speaker Conclusion
The Logitech Z407 is an overall great computer speaker set with enough options for basic gaming, music, or movie applications. The unit is available at a greatly affordable price point and will not disappoint! This is a great purchase for those looking to include a speaker set with a new computer or laptop. For those looking for a more immersive gaming experience, Logitech’s G560 Lightsync Computer Gaming Speakers are a great choice as they offer many of the same features as the Z407’s, as well as synchronized light movements projected onto your wall during gameplay and a simulated surround sound experience.
What is the Difference Between a Computer Speaker And a Bookshelf Speaker?
The two are easily confused as they are pretty similar in many ways, and their applications are often considered interchangeable. However, there are a few crucial differences between the two speaker categories which can heavily impact your purchase decisions.
To put it simply: bookshelf speakers are compact loudspeakers designed to be used in conjunction with a home theater system, music setup, or similar arrangements. They are always designed and built by audio companies and incorporate high-level components that provide a medium to the audiophile-grade listening experience.
Computer speakers are produced mainly by computer companies, and generally, they do not perform as well as ‘professional’ audio products. However, this is not to say that most computer speakers will provide an enjoyable listening experience for most everyday uses.
Those with specific needs for their speakers (such as audio mixing) should instead look at a pair of quality studio monitors.
Are Bluetooth Or Corded Computer Speakers Better For Gaming?
For any application, I would personally recommend using a wired system in your home. If you are carrying your PC setup or laptop around often enough to warrant a wireless speaker system, then it may be worth investing in. However, when dealing with gaming uses specifically, you may experience some latency or ‘cuts’ that could cause your concentration and flow to suffer. It all comes down to your personal preference and intended uses for your computer speaker system.
What is Frequency Response?
We define frequency response as a device’s ability to accurately represent a signal passing through it. Frequencies are measured in Hertz (Hz) and describe the number of cycles a sound wave completes within a second. Higher frequencies cycle faster than lower frequencies.
The frequency range that we as humans are capable of hearing ranges from around 20Hz to 20Khz. A device’s frequency response is displayed in the form of a graph (where fluctuations and accuracy are visually represented) or as a figure, using a plus/minus symbol to denote variances. When looking to purchase a set of computer speakers, a flatter frequency response is desirable. For more info, check out our guide to frequency response.
What is a Subwoofer, and Is It Important?
As previously discussed, a woofer handles all low frequencies. It is specifically designed to carry such frequencies with greater power and transmit them well; this is possible through a larger diaphragm driver, which is often made using more robust materials such as ceramics and harder papers.
However, a subwoofer is similar. It carries what we refer to as ‘sub sonic’ frequencies; this is where the low-end ‘rumble’ comes from! It can be considered necessary depending on how you will be using your speaker system. If you are using it for music or gaming, I recommend a setup containing a subwoofer for that additional bass reinforcement. A ‘sub’ can also enhance a movie-watching experience. Practically all applications will benefit from the extra weight in your sound!
Lastly, let’s take a look at some common connectivity options available on computer speaker systems. These can vary greatly from speaker to speaker, and you must ensure your current devices are compatible to avoid additional purchases or risk technical troubles.
- 3.5mm Jack – Also known as an auxiliary or ‘aux’ jack, this is the most common in small design speakers for recreational use. Most cellphones, computers, tablets, and stereos will include a 3.5mm jack output. Sometimes an adapter is required (such as modern iPhones), but these are easily accessible. The 3.5mm jack is also sometimes referred to as a 1/8th inch connection or simply a headphone jack.
- ¼ inch Jack – Known commonly as a ‘guitar cable,’ the ¼ inch jack comes in different configurations: TS (Tip & Sleeve) and TRS (Tip, Ring & Sleeve). These terms are not too important for this article. However, it is worth knowing that these cables can be purchased relatively easily at most electronic stores or music equipment suppliers, as well as most online stores that stock speakers, electronics, and music gear.
- 3.5mm RCA – We’ve all spent plenty of time with these- they are the predecessors of the HDMI cable as far as television connections are concerned. An RCA cable is a group of red, yellow, and white cables that form a link between a television and a DVD player, satellite connection, and sometimes laptops. They are available with a variety of connectors on the transmitting end. In the case of computer speakers, we are only concerned about a 3.5mm to RCA cable- basically a 3.5mm aux connection on one end and two 3.5mm connections on the opposite end (one red and one white)
- USB (Universal Serial Bus) – We are all familiar with USB connections- they have become a part of our daily lives. Most electronic devices rely on USB for battery charging, data transmission, or even power sourcing. USB can also transmit audio in real-time, provided there are encoding and decoding capabilities on both devices. When looking at computer speaker systems, our interaction with USB will mainly be for feeding power to the speakers themselves, if necessary.
- Bluetooth – Our familiar friend Bluetooth works by transmitting radio waves along a limited distance and is then decoded by the receiving device. Bluetooth technology is available in various formats as far as encoding, decoding, transmission speed, signal strength, and quality are concerned. Most modern devices are utilizing Bluetooth modes 4.0 – 5.0.
Below is a short buyer’s guide briefly explaining some technical terms and specifications used to describe a set of computer speakers and other considerations to pay attention to when looking to purchase a new computer speaker setup.
Sound Type: Stereo, 2.1, Surround Sound, etc.
Computer speakers are available in a wide array of configurations, each designed specifically for single purposes or a variety of uses. While stereo setups are most common as they are all most will need, a 2.1 setup (1 x stereo speaker pair plus 1 x subwoofer) can undoubtedly enhance your gaming, viewing, or listening.
A surround sound rig could also significantly affect the overall experience and assist in the impressiveness of your chosen media.
Sound Quality
Easily the most crucial factor to consider when looking to buy a computer speaker set. Always refer to technical specifications, expert reviews and, if possible, perform a demo of the speakers yourself to trial their performance when tested against your preferences in entertainment and uses.
Device Versatility
Can the computer speakers be used with different devices such as my cellphone, television, or stereo system?
It all comes down to the connectivity options available on the device. Luckily, most computer speakers are designed to be fed through a 3.5mm jack cable, which is compatible with most TVs, cellphones, and stereo systems.
Connectivity
It is imperative to double-check the connectivity options available on your prospective computer speaker system to ensure you will make full use of your speakers. As far as connectivity/inputs are concerned, there are generally a few standard choices: 3.5mm jack (or ‘aux’ cable), Bluetooth, or USB. All of which are compatible with virtually every computer, television, cellphone, or tablet.
Size
Will it fit on my desk or bookshelf? An obvious but often overlooked factor! Speaker dimensions and driver sizes are not to be confused. Fortunately, most computer speaker setups are relatively compact, lightweight, and somewhat portable (if necessary)
Audio controls
How can I control the unit? All computer speaker systems will include onboard controls, such as power on/off and volume up/down. Many will also feature additional controls for subwoofer activation and equalization options such as bass boosting, dimming (reducing volume at a set level), or controlling the lights of the speakers.
Some computer speakers will even include voice command functionality or remote control, which comes in handy when using them for film viewing, live meetings, interviews, or conferences.
Power Source
Always ensure your new computer speaker setup’s power cables are compatible with the plug points of your country/region. They will always come with power cables in the box.
Drivers Sizes- Bass and Treble Speakers
As discussed in our introduction to computer speaker systems, the size and material of the driver itself have a serious impact on sound quality and execution. Be sure to read up on these specifications, as they will significantly affect how you enjoy your speakers based on your intended uses for them.
Frequency Response
One of the most critical specifications to analyze when buying any audio-related device. More info on frequency response in our introductory section.
Signal to Noise Ratio
Signal to Noise Ratio is a way of describing the amount of unwanted noise introduced into your speakers as volume levels increase. This is particularly important if you’ll be using your computer speakers for virtual meetings or interviews, as the other party’s microphone levels may require you to push volume on your end, resulting in amplified system noise.
Warranty
Lastly, we always like to look into how the product’s warranty plan works to ensure coverage from possible factory defects, transportation damage, and other minor inconveniences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Computer Speakers as Studio Monitors?
I would strongly discourage using computer speakers as studio reference monitors for several reasons. Firstly, the frequency response of computer speakers is not nearly flat enough to accurately represent audio and other specifications, including total harmonic distortion and signal-to-noise ratios that are not at a professional enough level to make informed mix decisions. Computer speakers are typically not designed with room acoustics and reflections in mind, and their driver sizes are not appropriate for pro audio work.
Can I Use Computer Speakers On My TV?
As long as the connectivity options on your speakers are compatible with your television- yes! Computer speakers are more than capable of handling TV sound.
Can I Use Computer Speakers On My Stereo?
It all depends on the speaker itself- if your computer speaker set is powerful enough, made from quality material with great drivers, and can connect without complications, it is possible to use your computer speaker system with your stereo.
Do Computer Speakers Need a Subwoofer?
Again, this depends on your intended uses. If you plan on using your new computer speaker setup for music, immersive gaming, or film watching, a subwoofer will only improve your listening experience.
Our Pick!
Audioengine A2+ Bluetooth Computer Speakers
The Audioengine A2+ premium powered wireless speakers are made to connect to any music player effortlessly while providing you with clear sound that fills a room.