Overview
- Jump To Details
Audioengine A5+ Wireless
Best for Audiophiles - Jump To Details
Creative Pebble Pro
Best Affordable Speakers - Jump To Details
Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4
Most Iconic Design - Jump To Details
Audioengine A1-MR
Best Audioengine Speakers With Wi-Fi - Jump To Details
Fluance Ai61
Best Remote Control - Jump To Details
Logitech Z407
Best Midrange 2.1 System - Jump To Details
Pioneer DJ VM-50
Best Studio Monitors - Jump To Details
Razer Leviathan V2
Best Soundbar for Gamers - Jump To Details
Razer Leviathan V2 Pro
Best Soundbar for Spatial Audio
Few things in life are as enjoyable as high-fidelity music. But as you've probably noticed, music only sounds as good as the system it plays through. Most computers don't come with high-quality speakers—and that's to say nothing of the tiny drivers built into most laptops. Even if you're on a tight budget, low-cost speakers can improve your listening experience in a big way.
PCMag's audio experts have been reviewing speakers of all sorts for well over a decade, including everything from portable Bluetooth models to surround sound systems for home entertainment. Our publishing process is fully independent, so speaker makers have no influence here. Currently, our Editors' Choice winners include the bookshelf-style Audioengine A5+ Wireless for audiophiles, the budget-friendly, LED-equipped Creative Pebble Pro, and the iconic, futuristic Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4. But our list below has many other compelling options, so read through all of the linked reviews to find the best one for you.
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
Audioengine A5+ Wireless
Best for AudiophilesWhy We Picked It
Aside from looking good—the A5+ Wireless speakers are available in glossy white, satin black, 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 AAC, aptX, aptX HD, 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 the 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.
- High-quality Bluetooth streaming with 24-bit upsampling.
- Wired connectivity options.
- Can be used with a subwoofer.
Cons
- No source knob.
- Limited remote control.
Learn MoreAudioengine A5+ Wireless ReviewCreative Pebble Pro
Best Affordable SpeakersWhy We Picked It
Too often, budget-friendly just means low quality. But the inexpensive Creative Pebble Pro speakers deliver far better sound than you might expect for the price. Little details, like the upward angling of the drivers and the long connection cable that enables a wide stereo field, help create a quality audio experience. Meanwhile, 3.5mm, Bluetooth, and USB-C playback options add versatility.
Who It’s For
If you want a robust stereo system for not a lot of money, check out the Pebble Pro. Simply put, these cheap speakers sound far better than they have any right to.
Pros
- Good audio performance with wide stereo image
- Angled drivers for better audio delivery
- Built-in RGB lighting
- Support for 3.5mm, Bluetooth, and USB-C playback
- Affordable
Cons
- Limited Bluetooth codec support
- Separate adapter needed to plug directly into wall outlet
Learn MoreCreative Pebble Pro ReviewHarman Kardon SoundSticks 4
Most Iconic DesignWhy 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 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. It combines 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
- Iconic transparent design
- Long cables for ideal stereo separation
Cons
- All physical controls are located on the subwoofer
- No adjustable EQ or sub settings
Learn MoreHarman Kardon SoundSticks 4 ReviewAudioengine A1-MR
Best Audioengine Speakers With Wi-FiWhy We Picked It
The A1-MR speakers deliver crisp DSP-free audio in a relatively compact design with true stereo separation. 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 far 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
- Multiroom playback via app
- Wired aux input and subwoofer output
Cons
- App doesn’t have an EQ
- Not for those seeking powerful bass
- Drivers aren't angled upward for ideal playback
Learn MoreAudioengine A1-MR ReviewFluance Ai61
Best Remote ControlWhy 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 included 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
- Handsome design
- Wired and wireless audio options
- Discrete bass and treble controls
Cons
- Lacks serious sub-bass (but offers subwoofer output)
- No companion app
- Can clip the beginning of tracks over Bluetooth
Learn MoreFluance Ai61 ReviewLogitech Z407
Best Midrange 2.1 SystemWhy 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 toward your ears.
Who It’s For
If you’re considering the less expensive Creative Pebble Pro, this is a sensible upgrade that still won't break the bank.
Pros
- Powerful audio performance with rich lows and bright highs
- Easy to operate
- Affordable
Cons
- Subwoofer can distort at top volumes
- Hardwired cables are a little short
Learn MoreLogitech Z407 ReviewPioneer DJ VM-50
Best Studio MonitorsWhy 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
- Adjustable DSP aims for flexibility, not sculpting
- Relatively affordable as a pair
Cons
- DSP cannot be bypassed
- No audio cables included
Learn MorePioneer DJ VM-50 ReviewRazer Leviathan V2
Best Soundbar for GamersWhy 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
- Good stereo imaging
- Customizable RGB lighting
Cons
- No 3.5mm or optical audio input
- THX Spatial Audio offers limited benefits
Learn MoreRazer Leviathan V2 ReviewRazer Leviathan V2 Pro
Best Soundbar for Spatial AudioWhy We Picked It
Good surround sound usually requires multiple speakers with several angled drivers, but the Razer Leviathan V2 Pro soundbar can still create that sense of directionality thanks to its head-tracking and sophisticated audio processing features. Similar to high-end gaming headsets, it mixes sound between the different drivers on the fly to create an engrossing soundstage. It all works surprisingly well, and an included subwoofer adds plenty of low-end power.
Who It's For
Like most Razer products, the Leviathan V2 Pro is primarily for gamers. If you want an immersive PC gaming experience without putting on a headset and don't mind spending several hundred dollars to get it, this is the speaker system to buy. Just know that it's substantially larger than the standard Leviathan V2.
Pros
- Impressive spatial audio
- Powerful, balanced sound
- Convenient controls
Cons
- Expensive
- High frequencies could be richer
- Bluetooth and USB only
Learn MoreRazer Leviathan V2 Pro Review
Buying Guide: The Best Computer Speakers for 2024
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 most common types: stereo, 2.1, and surround sound.
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 speakers, however, sound great even without a subwoofer, primarily because their woofers (the drivers dedicated to low-mid and low frequencies below 1kHz) are capable of handling the bass response.
The vast majority of desktop speakers come in 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 many people.
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.
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 unpowered. That's a 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 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 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. These systems are more expensive and take up more space, but the benefit is much more powerful and clear sound.
There are a few exceptions in the form of active studio monitors. Here, the distinction between a bookshelf speaker and a computer speaker blurs. 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 models. 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 should probably 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 may have to deal with potential codec restrictions, however.
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 speaker, 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 who wants to record and mix music at home? Look for active studio monitors 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. And be sure to pair them with a good microphone.
