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 laptops. Even if you're on a budget, low-cost speakers can improve your listening experience dramatically. PCMag's audio experts have been reviewing speakers of all kinds 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, high-fidelity Fluance Ri71 and the budget-friendly, LED-equipped Creative Pebble Pro. But our list below has many other compelling options, so read through all of the linked reviews to find the best one for you.
Overview
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![Fluance Ri71]()
Best Computer Speakers OverallFluance Ri71
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![Audioengine A5+ Wireless]()
Best for AudiophilesAudioengine A5+ Wireless
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![Creative Pebble Pro]()
Best Affordable SpeakersCreative Pebble Pro
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![JBL 104-BT]()
Best Value Studio MonitorsJBL 104-BT
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![Edifier MR5]()
Best for Studio Work and Casual ListeningEdifier MR5
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![Logitech Z407]()
Best Midrange 2.1 SystemLogitech Z407
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![Fluance Ai61]()
Best Remote ControlFluance Ai61
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![Razer Leviathan V2]()
Best Soundbar for GamersRazer Leviathan V2
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![Fluance Ai41]()
Best Compact SpeakersFluance Ai41
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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![Fluance Ri71]()
Best Computer Speakers OverallFluance Ri71
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Fluance Ri71 computer speakers hit all the right notes, thanks to their balance of style, sound, features, and connectivity. These Editors' Choice winners produce detailed audio, pack HDMI ARC and high-quality Bluetooth connections, and support an optional subwoofer—all at a reasonable price.
Who Is It For?
Audiophiles: If you're looking for outstanding sound quality in a pair of speakers that easily fit on a desk, the Ri71 from Fluance are our top recommendation. They also allow you to connect a subwoofer if you want to enhance low-end frequencies.
Streaming fans: Thanks to their wealth of connectivity options, including HDMI ARC, the Fluance Ri71 speakers are superb if you also use your computer to watch TV shows or movies.
Design-conscious listeners: In addition to sounding fantastic, these speakers are absolutely gorgeous. Their white drivers and metallic tweeters are elegant and understated, and they're available in Black Ash, Walnut, and White Ash finishes.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Built-In Voice Assistant None Channels Stereo Physical Connections HDMI Physical Connections Stereo RCA Physical Connections Subwoofer Out Learn More Fluance Ri71 Review -
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![Audioengine A5+ Wireless]()
Best for AudiophilesAudioengine A5+ Wireless
Pros & Cons
Why 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
Analog holdouts: 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.
Close listeners: Beyond offering elegant design and abundant connectivity options, the Audioengine A5+ Wireless speakers sound fantastic, regardless of the source, and there's the option to add a subwoofer if your music preferences or use case require one.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Built-In Voice Assistant None Channels Stereo Physical Connections 3.5mm Physical Connections Stereo RCA Learn More Audioengine A5+ Wireless Review Review -
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![Creative Pebble Pro]()
Best Affordable SpeakersCreative Pebble Pro
Pros & Cons
Why 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
The budget-conscious: 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.
Decor-minded users: The Creative Pebble Pro speakers appear more expensive than they are, and include RGB lighting, but it's discreetly placed on the underside of the speakers, rather than garish and distracting.
Minimalists: If space on your desk is limited, these speakers have a much smaller footprint than many others we've tested, and their angled drivers mean you don't need any foam wedges or other accessories to position them optimally.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Built-In Voice Assistant None Channels 2 Physical Connections 3.5mm Physical Connections USB-C Learn More Creative Pebble Pro Review -
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![JBL 104-BT]()
Best Value Studio MonitorsJBL 104-BT
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
At $149 per pair, the JBL 104-BT speakers are reasonably priced for home studios and deliver quality, accurate sound. They are easy to set up, offer flexible wired and wireless connection options, and produce a pleasing audio signature at significant volumes.
Who It’s For
Professionals on a budget: DJs, musicians, and home studio enthusiasts seeking affordable monitors that deliver accurate audio will appreciate this set. It delivers an ideal mix and allows for the freedom to connect multiple source types.
Multi-device owners: As their name suggests, the JBL 104-BT speakers support Bluetooth, but they can also be used with a wire, making them ideal for setups with multiple audio sources.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Built-In Voice Assistant None Channels Stereo Physical Connections 3.5mm Physical Connections Stereo Balanced TRS Physical Connections Stereo RCA Learn More JBL 104-BT Review -
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Credit: Mark Knapp
![Edifier MR5]()
Best for Studio Work and Casual ListeningEdifier MR5
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Edifier MR5 desktop speakers combine a three-driver design in appealing enclosures that are small enough to fit any-sized desk. More importantly, they offer clean, pleasing audio, a host of connectivity options, high-quality Bluetooth codecs, and a great companion app so you can make the speakers your own. Add it all together and you have a powerful set of speakers that are great for casual listening and accurate enough for studio work.
Who It’s For
Those who want one pair of speakers for everything: The MR5s do it all. They connect to your setup via wires or Bluetooth, sound great, fit anywhere, and offer plenty of user customizations.
Studio engineers who work at home: If you engineer music at a studio, but sometimes find yourself working at home, the MR5s provide an accurate-enough signal that you can mix in your home office.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Channels Stereo Physical Connections 3.5mm Physical Connections Stereo Balanced TRS Physical Connections Stereo RCA Physical Connections XLR Learn More Edifier MR5 Review -
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![Logitech Z407]()
Best Midrange 2.1 SystemLogitech Z407
Pros & Cons
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 toward your ears.
Who It’s For
Upgrade seekers: If you’re considering the less expensive Creative Pebble Pro, this is a sensible upgrade that still won't break the bank.
Bass lovers on a budget: It's hard to quibble with the price tag of the Logitech Z407 system, especially when most subwoofers cost multiples of the whole kit. The subwoofer may only have a 5-inch driver, but it'll add depth to games and music, especially if you're upgrading from your laptop's built-in speakers.
Control freaks: Each of the two satellite speakers features a detachable stand that allows you to tilt the speakers for optimal listening placement, or place them horizontally instead of vertically. A desktop remote is also included for quick volume adjustments.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Built-In Voice Assistant None Channels 2.1 Physical Connections 3.5mm Learn More Logitech Z407 Review -
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![Fluance Ai61]()
Best Remote ControlFluance Ai61
Pros & Cons
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 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
EQ adjusters: Few desktop speakers include EQ adjustments, and even fewer offer the ability to do so via a remote control like these.
The connection agnostic: Optical and analog inputs are usually the preserve of home entertainment systems, but Fluance includes them here, offering flexibility beyond Bluetooth and USB-C.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Built-In Voice Assistant None Channels 2 Physical Connections Optical Physical Connections Stereo RCA Physical Connections Subwoofer Out Physical Connections USB-C Learn More Fluance Ai61 Review -
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![Razer Leviathan V2]()
Best Soundbar for GamersRazer Leviathan V2
Pros & Cons
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
Gamers: If you're looking for more rumble from your bazooka and RGB lighting, the Razer Leviathan V2 looks and sounds the part.
Cinephiles: Don't write this all-in-one speaker off as strictly for gamers, though. It's also excellent for movie watching, thanks to its thunderous bass from its included subwoofer and surprisingly effective stereo imaging.
Space savers: Measuring just 3.3 by 19.7 by 3.3 inches (HWD), this soundbar can tuck under most desktop monitors and is perfect if you have an ultrawide.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Built-In Voice Assistant None Channels 2.1 Physical Connections USB Learn More Razer Leviathan V2 Review -
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![Fluance Ai41]()
Best Compact SpeakersFluance Ai41
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Fluance Ai41 speakers produce the same rich, balanced stereo sound as the $299 Ai61s but are smaller and more affordable. They're a good option if you want to keep size and price in check, though you'll want to consider a subwoofer to help with some deeper sub-bass notes.
Who It’s For
Fans of subtlety: With their monochrome drivers, tweeters, and cabinets, the Fluance Ai41 speakers exemplify understated elegance and won't take over your desk thanks to their compact footprint.
Value hunters: The Fluance Ai41 speakers offer a lot for your money, thanks to a reasonable selection of inputs and a potent range of amplification. They provide rich, detailed audio and deliver it cleanly without distortion. If price and size are your top priorities, Fluance strikes a balance between the two while producing pleasing sound.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Built-In Voice Assistant None Channels 2 Physical Connections Optical Physical Connections Stereo RCA Physical Connections Subwoofer Out Learn More Fluance Ai41 Review -
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4.0 Excellent |
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3.5 Good |
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Best For | Best Computer Speakers Overall | Best for Audiophiles | Best Affordable Speakers | Best Value Studio Monitors | Best for Studio Work and Casual Listening | Best Midrange 2.1 System | Best Remote Control | Best Soundbar for Gamers | Best Compact Speakers | Best Computer Speakers Overall | Best for Audiophiles | Best Affordable Speakers |
Channels | Stereo | Stereo | 2 | Stereo | Stereo | 2.1 | 2 | 2.1 | 2 | Stereo | Stereo | 2 |
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Physical Connections | Stereo RCA, HDMI, Subwoofer Out | 3.5mm, Stereo RCA | USB-C, 3.5mm | Stereo RCA, Stereo Balanced TRS, 3.5mm | 3.5mm, Stereo RCA, Stereo Balanced TRS, XLR | 3.5mm | USB-C, Optical, Stereo RCA, Subwoofer Out | USB | Optical, Stereo RCA, Subwoofer Out | Stereo RCA, HDMI, Subwoofer Out | 3.5mm, Stereo RCA | USB-C, 3.5mm |
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Built-In Voice Assistant | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None |
Buying Guide: The Best Computer Speakers for 2026
What Are the Best Speakers for a Desktop Computer or Laptop?
To choose the best speakers for your computer, you must first 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 excellent even without a subwoofer, primarily because their woofers (the drivers dedicated to low-mid and low frequencies below 1kHz) can handle 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 deliver 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 detail 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. Most computer speakers, as well as 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 buy a separate amp to drive your speakers; you just plug them into your computer (and a power outlet), 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 a much more powerful, clearer sound.
There are a few exceptions, such as 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 with built-in amps, which 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 with PC speakers, but there are some things to consider. Do the speakers include bass and treble controls to 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. If your PC has Bluetooth, you can stream music wirelessly to any speaker that accepts it (which is most portable speakers and many 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 a larger or more attractive 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.