The best cheap speakers for PC are easy to set up and fit seamlessly onto any desktop while offering minimal connectivity options to avoid wire clutter and add-on clutter.
Hi-fi speakers require their own amplifier to power them, while budget options often use USB or Bluetooth for energy delivery. Furthermore, budget options tend to be smaller than their hi-fi counterparts to keep desk space at a minimum.
If you want to skip the reviews, we say get the Logitech Z207 2.0.
Best Cheap Speakers For PC Reviews
Creative Sound BlasterX Kratos S3 2.1
- BEST-IN-CLASS 2.1 GAMING SPEAKER SYSTEM - Two powerful 2.75" satellite drivers with port-tube design...
Sound can have just as much of an effect on gamers as graphics and gameplay; this is particularly evident when dealing with games featuring explosions, screams, and bullets flying by.
When this occurs in such titles, 2.1 speakers provide clarity while also creating a sense of immersion you wouldn’t otherwise find with regular desktop speakers.
Creative’s 2.1 Kratos S3 speaker system is an ideal budget option that provides high performance at an economical price.
These classic gamer-inspired speakers feature wood enclosures for warmer, more natural sound quality while their built-in subwoofer delivers deep bass for immersive gaming, movies, and music listening experiences.
These 2.1 speakers are an excellent addition to any computer but are especially suited for gaming. Their features include two 2.75-inch satellites and a down-firing subwoofer which together deliver up to 46W RMS power; furthermore, they include an analog input making them compatible with multiple devices.
If you’re having difficulty choosing speakers for your PC, YouTube video reviews may be an invaluable source of advice. Make sure the reviews come from real users rather than retailers, and read user comments on forums too for insight into what others think of the product.
The Sound BlasterX Kratos S3 2.1 was specifically created with gamers in mind, yet can be used with any device supporting analog audio output. It comes equipped with a stereo cable connecting both satellites to the subwoofer as well as a headphone jack.
Furthermore, speakers feature volume control knobs and LED indicator lights to make life easy when placed on your desk or other flat surface.
This speaker system uses two 2.75″ satellites and a custom-tuned port tube design 5.25″ down-firing subwoofer with 92 watts of pure power for entertainment and games.
Thanks to acoustic engineering and a proprietary driver, Kratos S3 produces an immersive soundstage with crisp highs and detailed mid-range audio that fills out its wide, balanced soundstage perfectly.
Logitech Z207 2.0
- Versatile setup with speakers that connect easily to computers and other devices via Bluetooth wireless...
- Logitech Easy-Switch technology lets you seamlessly switch between audio devices Just by pausing the...
- Each speaker has one active/powered driver that delivers full range Audio and ONE passive radiator that...
- On-speaker headphone jack Plus convenient controls for easy access to Bluetooth wireless pairing, power...
- Works with Bluetooth enabled devices and any device with a 3.5mm input including a computer, television,...
If you’re searching for an easy way to improve the sound output from your computer setup without spending too much money, there are plenty of budget PC speakers on the market that can do just that.
From simply improving tinny laptop audio output to adding extra dimensions in a custom PC rig setup – budget PC speakers can make all of the difference!
Stereo PC speakers typically offer a balanced audio output that’s great for music, movies, and gaming.
Many models incorporate noise reduction technology to reduce background noise when listening to your favorite tunes; other features may include manual controls that let you tweak things such as volume and bass levels to meet personal taste.
Most cheap stereo PC speakers connect wirelessly via a wired connection to your desktop computer or can even work wirelessly when used with smartphones or tablets.
Some models may also feature an output connector to upgrade later if more bass-end impact is desired; others even come equipped with a radio for listening to podcasts or news updates while working.
Budget PC speakers often come equipped with built-in acoustic isolation technology to reduce background noise and ensure clearer high-frequency audio.
Some models even feature headphone jacks for private listening – the Logitech Z207 2.0 are an ideal example, featuring futuristically designed satellites connected to an infrared remote, as well as a downward firing subwoofer controlled via an included infrared remote and controlled through its infrared remote.
You may need a 3.5mm cable connection when watching videos but otherwise, these budget speakers offer quality audio in compact form factor!
Bose Companion 2 PC speakers offer more power and versatility for a budget price but may cost slightly more.
They are slightly more costly than the Logitech Z207 but remain an excellent way to experience high-quality audio without additional fuss – their design is sleek, with multiple connections such as a 3.5mm port, optical-in, USB Type-A port, and support for Bluetooth wireless connectivity.
Creative Pebble 2.0 USB-Powered
- Single Usb Cable For Computers And Laptops | Enjoy A Hassle-Free Audio Experience With A Single Usb Cable...
- Far-Field Drivers And Passive Radiators | Custom-Tuned Far-Field Driver Solution With Rear Facing Passive...
- 45° Elevated Drivers | For Enhanced Audio Projection And An Immersive Personal Listening Experience
- Modern And Stylish Aesthetics | Perfect For Any Modern Homes, Offices And Workspaces
- German (Publication Language)
Affordable desktop speakers under $30 are difficult to come by, but these little Pebbles not only look stunning and sound great.
While not audiophile quality, they deliver fuller and better-balanced sound than many AC-powered 2.1 systems costing twice as much – particularly noticeable when listening to vocals or strings that sound clear and crisp.
Compact and user-friendly, they’re simple to set up right out of the box. Plug the included USB cable into any port on your computer with USB 2.1 support or higher and turn them on with their control knob – or use their built-in battery as power.
These little speakers deliver plenty of bass. The 2″ full-range drivers are angled at 45deg so that they hit directly at your ears, and there is also a passive radiator to add some additional low end.
Although not the most powerful pair available, these compact speakers can easily fill a small room and are more than sufficient to play video games or listen to music.
The Creative Pebble 2.0 USB-Powered is beautifully simple in design. The orb-shaped satellite speakers come in black to blend in seamlessly with most home and office desktop setups, measuring 4.4″ wide so they won’t take up too much desk space beside your monitor.
Their lightweight construction remains sturdy without flexing or creaking during use; on one speaker lies an indicator light for power as well as a volume dial with an LED indicator light for blue or green gain mode selections respectively.
The back of these speakers is equipped with a 1.34m (4.4ft) cable connecting it to the left speaker, while another cable runs from the right speaker directly to your computer’s 3.5mm AUX input 3.5mm port on the right speaker.
There is also an available 30W power adapter with interchangeable US, UK, EU, and Japanese AC plugs* which you can use with both cables to power or charge the laptop.
Monoprice DT-3BT 50-Watt
- Premium Drivers and Build: The high output 3.5" polypropylene woofers and 3/4" silk dome tweeters are...
- Advanced Wired Connectivity: The DT 3BT speakers feature a host of connectivity options, so you can...
- Bluetooth: The built in Bluetooth radio allows you to connect wirelessly and stream audio from any...
- Front Headphone Connection: The Monoprice DT 3BT speakers feature a convenient headphone jack on the...
- With their superior sound and advanced connectivity options, these speakers are the perfect complement to...
Powered desktop speakers may not be as well-known, but they still deliver an enjoyable audio experience at an economical cost.
One such option is the Monoprice DT-3BT powered stereo speakers; Bluetooth allows them to stream from various devices and fill a medium-sized room with clear, crisp audio while you can even adjust their EQ settings according to personal audio preferences.
These rounded black speakers look sleek and professional. Reminiscent of studio monitors in design, these acoustically optimized compact speakers are intended to maximize acoustic quality with minimum space requirements.
Equipped with 3.5″ polypropylene woofers and 0.75″ silk dome tweeters capable of handling 50W power output – plenty for most music genres at moderate to high volumes without compromising clarity or quality.
I tested several song arrangements over them to test performance and discovered solid bass without overkill while mids and highs were defined and crisp and defined – unlike many budget-friendly alternatives which tend over-emphasize certain frequencies so much they become unpleasant or unpleasant sounding;
These speakers avoided that pitfall common among budget-friendly models; over-emphasizing certain frequencies so much they sound unpleasant or unpleasant to my ears compared with budget-friendly counterparts which overemphasize certain frequencies too much;
I was particularly taken by how well the DT-3BTs performed with more acoustic music, like Check the Lock by Clipping, when listening on another cheap speaker system.
Listening to elements that had previously been obscured or lost through poorer speakers.
This is particularly noticeable on tracks with heavy reverb such as those which may appear hollow on cheaper options; these speakers feature a neutral sound profile that won’t appeal to everyone but are ideal for experiencing all genres of musical sounds simultaneously.
Monoprice may not be well-known, but the company has quietly been selling tech gear that rivals that of more prominent brands for decades.
Their DT-3BT speakers are no exception and make an easy upgrade for any desk setup; you just pop them out of their packaging and start listening right away! Their sound profile may not appeal to everyone but those that appreciate it will find them appreciated.
SteelSeries Arena 3 Full-Range 2.0
- Massive 4" Drivers – Arena 3 uses an organic fiber cone to accurately output a full range of...
- Easy Connectivity – PC wired, Aux, and wired headset support allow wide compatibility to enjoy rich...
- Wireless Connection – Enjoy wire-free, immersive audio with widely compatible Bluetooth for your phone...
- Ease of Use – Conveniently reach all controls with a volume dial and multi-functional button for...
- Audio Customization – Enhance the audio experience by adjusting nearly every aspect of the sound with...
SteelSeries has long been known for crafting quality gaming speakers, and the Arena 3 lives up to its reputation.
At the center of their Arena speaker line-up lies this midpoint option; upgrading to an Arena 7 adds a 6.5-inch subwoofer for added rumble; while spending extra on an Arena 9 brings surround sound capabilities and RGB customization for an immersive experience.
The Arena 3 doesn’t scream “gamer-centric” as many peripherals do; instead opting for a sleek aesthetic and sturdy build. Its main desktop speakers have a weight that reminds you these aren’t disposable products, while their black finish looks great on any desk setup.
Arena 3’s main speakers each boast a 4in driver housed within a glossy black shell for an eye-catching appearance on any desk.
One has an easy-to-access volume knob while the other features a headset jack beneath its shine-through LED dome. They support various sources via 3.5mm inputs, optical audio, and Bluetooth support while coming equipped with power cables and USB plugs to connect directly with PCs.
Out-of-the-box, the Arena 3 offers balanced plug-and-play audio with enough volume to cover most situations. However, at $289 RRP it may be difficult to recommend them since there are better and more versatile speakers on offer from competitors at around this price.
These SteelSeries speakers are compatible with their software when connected to your computer, giving you access to features such as Spatial Audio for an immersive virtual surround experience.
However, it is less than ideal that the software doesn’t recognize these speakers as individual devices and only allows you to select one preset at a time – making the Arena 3 feel less versatile than its rivals.
Nathan Lawrence has been making waves in tech and gaming journalism for more than 11 years now, writing for outlets such as IGN, STACK, Fandom, and Red Bull. Aside from writing for these outlets, his expertise can also be seen at the top of a Battlefield V scoreboard!
Fluance Ai41 Powered 2-Way 2.0
- UNPARALLELED PERFORMANCE - With an integrated 90W amplifier, these active speakers deliver a balanced...
- PREMIUM NEODYMIUM TWEETERS - High-performance tweeters produce an immersive stereo soundstage while...
- RICH AND NATURAL MIDRANGE - Light and rigid 5-inch woven glass fiber drivers produce detailed midrange...
- PRECISION-CRAFTED WOOD CABINETS - Enjoy warm sound from the internally braced MDF wood cabinets,...
- VERSATILE MUSIC CONNECTIVITY - Easily connect to your audio source through RCA and Optical inputs or...
The Fluance Ai41 speakers offer an incredible value at just $249 each, providing a wide stereo image and impressive low-end performance that far surpasses standard Bluetooth portable music speakers or factory-installed speaker systems found on most TVs and computers.
These speakers make an ideal solution for budget audiophiles looking to connect a subwoofer and experience true home theater systems.
The Ai41s offer plenty of features at an excellent value, including a built-in class D amplifier with plenty of power, dual RCA inputs, and even optical TOSLINK input – ideal features at this price point!
These speakers are equipped with a one-inch silk tweeter and five-inch glass fiber composite woofer, each equipped with its own DSP for frequency response balancing and distortion reduction, giving these speakers an extended low end below 30Hz that produces rich soundscapes.
This Ai41 speaker boasts an admirable low-end extension for bookshelf speakers, and they perform admirably when streaming music. Their highs are detailed yet crisp for their size; mids are nicely balanced while there is a slight boost in upper frequencies that brings out vocals more vividly.
Ai41s speakers allow you to stream podcasts and other audio files directly from your laptop, tablet, or smartphone using Bluetooth 5.0 technology and 24-bit/96kHz FLAC, MP3, WAV, and OGG file formats.
Their USB port also serves for charging audio devices as well as connecting additional ones directly. They don’t come equipped with remote controls; you can still control music via their control knob and LED display.
Wire connections for wired connections include two RCA inputs on the rear. These RCA ports can be used with your CD player or turntable with a Phono preamp connected.
There’s also an optical TOSLINK input suitable for most TVs, and an Ai41s has a subwoofer output crossed over at 80Hz for those planning on adding subwoofers.
Edifier R1280DB
- BLUETOOTH WIRELESS - Popular classic bookshelf speakers now can be enjoyed without the hassle of wires....
- STUDIO SOUND QUALITY - Naturally fine tuned sound reproduction from 4 inch bass and 13mm silk dome...
- OPTICAL AND COAXIAL INPUTS - Digital inputs to enable lossless connection to most TV and computers.
- REMOTE CONTROL - Adjust the volume and toggle inputs at your fingertips. Bass and treble control located...
- 2 YEAR WARRANTY - Quality components in solid MDF wood housing are built to last. 24 month parts and...
The Edifier R1280DB speakers are an exceptional value at their price point, providing a lively sound that fills medium-sized rooms easily while being easy to use and providing numerous features for improved ease of use. Plus, these PC speakers look good too – complete with covers to give an added layer of style!
The R1280DB’s visual appeal immediately stands out, being sleek and compact bookshelf speakers designed not to draw too much attention but still look classy and professional. Their wood grain exterior adds another level of aesthetic beauty compared to standard monitors seen at this price range.
The R1280DB stands out from our selection by featuring side controls for bass and treble adjustments – making it easier than many budget speakers to tweak the audio. Furthermore, these knobs don’t sit at the back where they may be difficult to access in an active workspace environment.
As for their sound, these speakers produce a warm and balanced tone that appeals to music listeners of any genre. Their low-end performance can be further enhanced with an active subwoofer. Furthermore, their midrange clarity is impressive; however, some users may find their high frequencies overpowering.
One of the highlights of the R1280DB is its ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously.
Equipped with a 3.5mm auxiliary input, USB port, and Bluetooth 5.0 support that is compatible with most compatible devices, the R1280DB makes switching between your computer, friend’s smartphones, or media sources easy without constantly swapping cables or searching for inputs.
Audioengine A1 60W
- POWERFUL DESKTOP COMPUTER SPEAKER SOUND - Based on the award-winning A2, the A1 offers powerful, crystal...
- PREMIUM WIRED OR WIRELESS BLUETOOTH SPEAKERS - Whether you want to stream music wirelessly via aptX...
- COMPACT DESIGN - Don't let limited space cramp your style. At 6"H x 4"W x 5.25"D each, the A1...
- HIGH QUALITY COMPONENTS - With a pair of home audio speakers, 6.5ft speaker wire, 6ft AC power cord, 5ft...
- 3 YEAR WARRANTY: Stellar US based customer support and 3 year product warranty is included. Based in...
Audioengine A1 speakers are built using custom components identical to their award-winning A2+ models and offer great value at a more accessible price point.
Boasting aramid fiber woofers and silk tweeters in a compact frame that fits on most desks, their 60-watt-per-channel output ensures big sound for filling any room – plus they even come equipped with an optional subwoofer output for extra bass power!
The A1s come equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 technology and support Qualcomm’s aptX audio quality-focused technology, providing music with up to 16 bits and a 48kHz native sample rate – closer than CD quality! Furthermore, they can be connected directly through USB DAC connections for even better sound.
Audioengine is well known for producing home and professional audio products, so they know exactly how to craft quality speakers.
These Audioengine speakers don’t disappoint in this department either and will impress both casual listeners as well as audiophiles with their clear and balanced presentation, which excels with midrange details as well as offering enough low-frequency depth to make most songs enjoyable.
Bass/treble balance may require slight tuning-ups as compared to competing products in this price range, though this shouldn’t be too much of an issue anyway.
These speakers look terrific, too. Their simple matte grey vinyl covering (over an MDF construction) and rounded corners make a powerful statement about minimalism, with no grills for those wanting a cleaner desk area.
Plus they include some cool features like auto-switching power supplies and subwoofer output if needed later.
The A1s are extremely straightforward to set up; simply plug them into a power source, connect the included wire from one speaker (powered) to the other (passive), connect your Bluetooth device, and pair your speakers.
All this takes mere seconds – plus all controls can be found conveniently located on each rear speaker for quick and easy use.
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