Best Computer Speakers of 2025: Elevate Your PC Sound with Our Recommendations

Improve your audio experience with the best computer speakers of 2025. Check out our expert picks!

Introduction to Computer Speakers

The computer speakers listed below have been rigorously tested by a team of experts, all providing built-in amplification, making them active or powered speakers and thus perfect for direct connection to your computer.

Thanks to large screens, easy controls, and an abundance of great music apps for desktops, computers and laptops are ideal devices for enjoying music. More accurately, they would be perfect if they had decent speakers, which unfortunately, they often lack.

Sadly, the speakers built into these multifunctional devices, like those in televisions, phones, and other everyday gadgets, are far from ideal—they’re thin, lifeless, and frankly not good enough for you. To keep you energized from 9 to 5, your tunes need significant support. And if you prefer that sound to come from speakers instead of wired headphones (and a digital-to-analog converter), consider getting a pair of neat desktop stereo speakers that can sit beside your device or on a nearby shelf.

Just pay attention to the connections and specifications, as some are better than others. All of them connect to your computer and play music from it, but some also support Bluetooth streaming for wireless playback, while others allow wireless streaming across your network if desired.

Best Computer Speakers: Quick List

• Best Overall Computer Speakers — Elac Debut ConneX DCB41: If you're after quality yet affordable computer speakers, these Elacs are perfect for you.
• Best Compact Computer Speakers — Ruark Audio MR1 Mk2: These mini speakers are well-made, fit any decor, and sound much louder than they look, making them a great addition to any desk.
• Best Budget Computer Speakers — Q Acoustics M20: With multiple connection options, it’s hard to find a more versatile budget option than these user-friendly Q Acoustics speakers.
• Best Computer Audio System — KEF LSX II LT: A stylish compact pair of speakers equipped with all the necessary Wi-Fi streaming features—perfect for your desktop.
• Best Computer Speakers for Audiophiles — Acoustic Energy AE1 Active: A stereo pair with enhanced sound that performs just as well as any amp and speakers at a comparable price.

Detailed Reviews of the Best Computer Speakers

1. Elac Debut ConneX DCB41 — Best Overall Computer Speakers

Specifications:

• Bluetooth: Yes (aptX)
• Inputs: HDMI ARC, optical, USB Type B, line level/MM phono
• Outputs: Subwoofer
• Dimensions (H x W x D): 25 x 14 x 20 cm
• Weight: 3.4 kg (active), 2.8 kg (passive)
• Finish Options: 2 (black ash, walnut)

Pros:

• Balanced and thoughtful execution
• Unpretentious nature
• Good feature set

Cons:

• No volume indicator
• Wired connection between speakers
• Phono-stage performance could be better

The Elac Debut ConneX DCB41 speakers are compact powered speakers that take up so little space they can neatly sit on your desk next to your computer. When needed, this capable pair can also perform well in a reasonably sized room alongside your television or stereo system. The two speakers are connected with a standard supplied cable, but otherwise, they are very easy to place.

Playback from multiple sources, such as your computer and smartphone, is possible thanks to Bluetooth aptX streaming and a USB Type B input (which plays tracks in high resolution up to 24-bit/96 kHz). You can even use the Elacs as a worthy alternative to a soundbar thanks to HDMI ARC and optical input, along with a built-in MM phono stage, so you can connect a turntable and spin your records.

For optimal sound quality, we suggest using the digital inputs: “When used this way, it’s a clear, balanced, and insightful device. There’s a good level of detail and the ability to combine this information into a cohesive musical whole.”

The overall sound presentation is controlled and balanced, much like the award-winning series of passive Elac Debut speakers. These speakers fade into the background, allowing the music to take center stage—nothing irritates or distracts from it.

2. Ruark Audio MR1 Mk2 — Best Compact Computer Speakers

Specifications:

• Bluetooth: Yes (aptX)
• Inputs: Optical, 3.5mm
• Outputs: Subwoofer
• Dimensions (H x W x D): 17 x 13 x 13.5 cm
• Weight: 3.6 kg (pair)
• Finish Options: 2 (walnut, grey)

Pros:

• Amazingly musical sound
• Slim design
• Stylish, compact design

Cons:

• No USB input
• No network streaming

If space is at a premium, you won’t find a more beautifully crafted pair of powered compact computer speakers than the Ruark MR1 Mk2. These handmade wooden enclosures are superbly made, user-friendly, and perfectly suited for placement on either side of a laptop, as well as on a small desk, bookshelf, or TV stand. It’s no wonder they have received multiple awards.

You can easily and quickly connect via Bluetooth, optical or 3.5mm jack, and high-resolution sound is supported up to 24-bit/192 kHz. The stylish retro design is another key part of its charm, offering more class than most actors from Mad Men.

Ruark implements Hi-Fi speaker principles here: From tuned crossovers to A/B amplification, everything is designed to deliver the best sound quality.

In terms of sound, the MR1 is surprisingly musical and insightful; it conveys delicacy and detail in a rich and pleasing manner. With smooth dynamics, precise timing, powerful bass, and natural vocals, they are a joy to listen to, and the MR1 Mk2 sounds rich and smooth while remaining clear. They also accurately convey the mood of songs—a remarkable feat for wireless speakers.

The performance enhancement over the original MR1 is impressive, making the Mk2 even more attractive than before, at a very appealing price. Simply put, these are excellent PC speakers for any room, ideal for those looking to spend their money wisely.

3. Q Acoustics M20 — Best Budget Computer Speakers

Specifications:

• Bluetooth: Yes (aptX HD, low latency aptX)
• Inputs: USB Type B, optical, RCA, 3.5mm
• Outputs: Subwoofer
• Dimensions (H x W x D): 27.9 x 17 x 29.6 cm
• Weight: 5.5 kg (active), 5.1 kg (passive)
• Finish Options: 3 (black, white, walnut)

Pros:

• Penetrating and spacious sound
• Easy to place
• Excellent connectivity options

Cons:

• Requires a large desk space for placement
• No network streaming
• Wired connection between speakers

User-friendly, well-built, and extremely affordable, Q Acoustics M20 may not be the most compact powered speakers on this list, but they offer such a wide range of features that we’d certainly find a way to place them on our desk.

The rear of these modern devices has plenty of useful ports: Televisions, CD players, turntables, and laptops can be connected to the M20 via optical, line-level RCA, auxiliary, and USB Type B ports, as well as via Bluetooth if you prefer to avoid wires.

One of the speakers in the pair is “main” and powered from the mains, while the other connects via the supplied cable. It’s worth noting that they truly sound how they should—full, loud, spacious, and lively. Our experts were impressed by how perfect and detailed these budget-friendly speakers are. Compared to much smaller yet similarly priced Ruarks, the model Q Acoustics “sounds fuller, louder, and less compressed.”

The Q Acoustics company has released an easy-to-use powered speaker set where all you have to do is connect a sound source, and we can’t help but admire them. With a built-in amplifier in the main speaker and multiple connection and placement options, the M20 is more likely to become your complete music system rather than just new desk speakers—and for the money, it's hard to achieve better sound quality with standalone Hi-Fi speakers. Something to consider.

4. KEF LSX II LT — Best Computer Audio System

Specifications:

• Bluetooth: Yes
• Inputs: HDMI ARC, USB-C, optical, Ethernet
• Outputs: Subwoofer
• Dimensions (H x W x D): 24 x 15.5 x 18 cm
• Weight: 6.8 kg (pair)
• Finish Options: 3 (graphite grey, white stone, sage green)

Pros:

• Comprehensive sound characteristics
• Excellent imaging and dynamics
• Wireless streaming capabilities

Cons:

• No auxiliary input
• Wired connection between speakers

The standard KEF LSX II audio system has won awards and become a staple on this list. However, we now have a more compact and affordable version of the LSX II that we believe offers even greater value—if you’re willing to sacrifice a few small features.

In size and shape, the new LSX II LT is virtually indistinguishable from the standard LSX II, retaining the iconic mandarin-shaped waveguide and the glossy Uni-Q driver array for which KEF is famous. The 11.5 cm Uni-Q driver features a tweeter located at the center of the midrange/low-frequency driver, which is also present in this model. Class D active drivers produce a total of 200 watts—30 watts for the tweeter and 70 watts for the midrange/low-frequency driver in each channel.

KEF has taken its winning formula and refined it. Key connectivity features include an HDMI ARC port for the TV, optical input, and output for the subwoofer—all included, but unlike the standard LSX II, the LT requires only a single power cable connected to the main unit, while the additional speaker gets powered via USB-C. However, there is no AUX input or wireless connection between the speakers, so if you really need those features, we recommend looking at the full-sized KEF LSX II.

However, in terms of sound, the LT version doesn’t fall short of the original. Comparing the LSX II and LSX II LT, our reviewers noted, “The child model has the same sound characteristics as the LSX II but almost without flaws.” The LT provides punch, focus, and a clear sense of rhythmic movement without creating feelings of tension or imbalance. The speaker profile is slightly elongated, but not so much that one would think they are slender, emaciated, or lacking in muscle in the lower body.

KEF LSX II LT is indeed a smart investment that delivers excellent sound without appearing too bulky. This is the better choice of the two LSX II models, hence it received the What Hi-Fi? Award 2024 for “Best Audio System” in its price range.

5. Acoustic Energy AE1 Active — Best Speakers for Audiophiles

Specifications:

• Bluetooth: No
• Inputs: RCA, balanced XLR
• Outputs: None
• Dimensions (H x W x D): 30 x 18.5 x 25 cm
• Weight: 18 kg (pair)
• Finish Options: 3 (black, white, walnut)

Pros:

• Clear, balanced, and detailed
• Rhythmic excitement
• Flexibility in placement

Cons:

• Limited features (no USB, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi) compared to alternatives on this list
• Expensive option

It’s hard to imagine a more successful combination of amplifier and passive speakers than these active speakers Acoustic Energy for the same price.

These former award-winners do everything with flair. They are quite simple to set up and operate—just connect them to a sound source through balanced XLR or RCA inputs, and you’re set. No Bluetooth here, but you can always purchase an inexpensive separate module (like the iFi Zen Blue) after purchase.

You’ll have to spend more on pricier speakers and amplifiers to noticeably improve upon these Acoustic Energy active speakers. They certainly impressed our reviewers: “We listened to a significant part of our library over a few days, and with each album, AE1 sounded simply magnificent.” Timing is impeccable, energy and drive are palpable across all music genres, and the dynamic range is finely nuanced and broad enough to highlight varying intensities of beats that might be overloaded in other systems. There’s also excellent integration and tonal balance, and the maturity of sound is truly impressive.

These speakers have been around for a while (we tested them in 2018), but they are still available for purchase, which speaks volumes about their quality. So you absolutely must find a pair of these speakers and experience their capabilities for yourself.

Also Consider

• KEF LSX II: While the newer and more affordable "LT" version in our list may represent a better deal, those who value having an AUX input and/or wireless (as opposed to wired) connection between speakers might be willing to pay more. Want a larger, pricier, and more powerful model? Check out their siblings, KEF LS50 Wireless II.
• Triangle AIO Twin: Another alternative to KEF LSX II LT. These all-in-one computer speakers with streaming capabilities sound very lively and—as a bonus—have a phono stage for connecting a turntable.
• Audio Pro C20: Although all pairs in this list consist of two-speaker stereo systems, if you need an affordable single-unit solution, Audio Pro with many features is an excellent choice. It combines modern connectivity options (including Bluetooth, AirPlay, and Spotify Connect) with very high-quality sound that happily fills a small office room.

How to Choose the Best Computer Speakers?

When purchasing a pair of computer speakers for a laptop/desktop, size will undoubtedly influence your decision. All the pairs of computer speakers we tested fall into the compact segment of the speaker market and are better suited for placement on a desk than most stereo speakers.

But size isn’t everything. One advantage of workplace speakers is that they can easily connect to your phone or laptop. Some computer speakers can connect via Bluetooth, so you don’t have to worry about wires trailing across the room, while others need to be connected via USB with a cable—this might not be as convenient but ensures a stable and high-quality audio transfer.

Additionally, some computer speakers support Wi-Fi and come with streaming capabilities, while others can connect to a television and/or turntable to create a more universal home system.

Think about what ports and features you need, especially if you want to connect anything other than your laptop, and compare them with the specifications of each model in this list of best computer speakers. Don’t choose computer speakers with more features than you need, as you’ll just be paying for them, and they might not sound as good as comparatively simpler models for about the same price (or possibly even cheaper).

However, each of the pairs of computer speakers mentioned above has a common trait—they offer the best-in-class sound for the respective price, which allows us to recommend them.

How to Set Up Computer Speakers?

Fortunately, computer speakers or PC speakers are inherently quite simple to set up. These are compact systems that usually consist of two speakers or perhaps three if a subwoofer is included.

You’ll want the right and left speakers positioned on either side of your computer, laptop, or monitor—at head level or slightly above, if that’s comfortable—and ideally angled slightly inward towards your workspace. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with experimenting.

You’ll need to place them on a sturdy surface of your desk, although more powerful computer speakers like the Acoustic Energy AE1 Active will sound better on dedicated stands.

If your speakers come with a small subwoofer to create a 2.1 system, you should place it as close to the speakers and your seating as possible, but on the floor. After all, you don’t want the low frequencies it produces to vibrate the table (or speakers) that you’re working on.

How Much Should I Spend on a Pair of Computer Speakers?

This is your classic question of “how many meters in a string segment”, but the good news is this: you don’t have to spend a fortune to significantly improve your sound. Any of the models listed above will provide you with much better sound quality than what you’ll get, for example, from playing through your laptop’s speakers.

Moreover, the sound will be much louder than what your laptop or PC can deliver, with significantly greater depth, breadth, and detail. Keep in mind that since we’ve selected high-class devices, you will be able to use any of the aforementioned devices not just as computers.

The best thing you can do after you’ve decided on a budget (or even to help you decide on one in the first place) is to head to a relevant dealer and listen to several speakers, starting from the lower end (see Q Acoustics M20) and moving upwards. If all you need is more punch, power, and volume, the M20 will do a great job of providing everything you need.

You can spend any amount, but just remember for what you will be using the speakers. There’s little point in paying thousands for a pair of speakers that will play sound from a low-quality source (like YouTube), but if you plan to use them frequently for various tasks and functions, it might be worth spending a bit more.

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