It’s hard to imagine listening to music on a computer, watching movies and sleepless nights for gamers without the use of external speaker systems. Built-in speakers do not provide the desired effect and clarity of sound. You have to think about connecting additional devices.
This article will help those for whom acoustics is not the last priority. For those who are planning to buy computer speakers with a subwoofer. In order not to constantly listen to “sounds from the bucket”, to approach the choice wisely, it is worth spending a little time on a comparative analysis.
TOP 10 best speakers for computer 2.1 and 5.1
Speakers with a subwoofer are considered the best option for home use. They correspond to the type of speaker system indicated by two numbers (for example, 2.1, 5.1). The first number indicates the number of satellites in the configuration, and the second indicates the presence of a subwoofer. The first are intended for mid and high frequencies. A subwoofer is a special speaker with a large diameter speaker to produce low frequencies, which gives more powerful and deeper bass.
Ginzzu GM-415
The most inexpensive speaker model with a subwoofer in our rating. Presented in a modern black design with blue LED lighting. The body is made of MDF and ABS plastic, which is a definite plus for sound reproduction (does not rattle like a completely plastic body). But at the same time, the entire structure has a light weight of 4.5 kg and compact dimensions.
Among the conveniences we can note the presence of a USB connector, Bluetooth and the ability to use an SD memory card. There is an antenna on the subwoofer body with which you can listen to the radio.
Ginzzu GM-415
- Low price.
- Attractive view.
- Decent functionality.
- Remote control included.
- Some users note that the sound does not reach the declared ranges.
- No wall mounts.
CROWN MICRO CMBS-361
An inexpensive speaker system designed to reproduce sound from a computer, laptop or other mobile device. The declared power of the speakers can cover a room of up to 120 sq.m. The Bluetooth function allows you to play audio from your tablet or smartphone.
The MDF case with a dark cherry color combined with the black design of the speakers not only looks stylish, but also gives high-quality sound reproduction without unnecessary noise. The dimensions of the subwoofer are the most impressive of all the models under consideration, which has a positive effect on the sound of bass. Power comes from a 220V network.
CROWN MICRO CMBS-361
- Built-in FM radio receiver.
- Supports playback from USB/SD drives.
- Separate controls for volume and high/low frequencies.
- Interesting design.
- Wireless remote control.
- Short cable.
- Big sizes.
Defender G50
Stylish 2.1 computer speakers with a total power of 500 W. They will look great in modern interiors. Moreover, the large size of the audio system allows it to be placed with dignity in the most prominent places.
The front sides are covered with protective panels, which prevents accidental damage to fragile speakers. The built-in tuner allows you to conveniently listen to radio stations. The set includes a remote control, thanks to which the device can be controlled remotely.
Defender G50
- Strict black design with backlight.
- Sufficient power.
- MDF body.
- Supports SD and microSD memory cards.
- Remote control included.
- Low price.
- The sound of a female voice when switching modes cannot be turned off or made quieter.
- No USB connector.
SVEN SPS-820
This model is presented on the market in two color options: black or dark oak. Classic, slightly ascetic design can be called elegant.
Due to a successful combination of technical characteristics, the system produces excellent sound, which will delight both computer game lovers and true audiophiles. Even with maximum settings, no extraneous crackling or background noise appears.
Managing the sound settings is very simple - the controls are located on the front wall of the subwoofer. And on the back walls of the satellites there are special fastenings for convenient installation on the wall.
SVEN SPS-820
- MDF body.
- Good build quality.
- Reliability and durability according to customer reviews.
- Average price range.
- Can be connected to devices using USB, HDMI connection.
- There is a wireless remote control.
- The speaker on/off button and the headphone jack are located on the rear panel.
- The back of the subwoofer gets hot.
- No wireless connections.
Microlab FC 330
Good speakers for a computer, equipped with a subwoofer and made of MDF. The use of high-quality full-range speakers adds a very smooth sound. The special design of the speaker and housing, taking into account all the laws of psychoacoustics, is based on Microlab's own patented Power Bass technology. It makes the sound even more authentic.
All protective nets are removable, which simplifies the maintenance process and increases the level of safety of the speakers.
Microlab FC 330
- Nice thick bass.
- Small sizes.
- Radiator for cooling the subwoofer.
- High quality materials and workmanship.
- Simple design.
- Short wires.
Creative Inspire T6300
5.1 audio system for a computer, made in a memorable design. The powerful channel subwoofer has a down-firing driver. The design includes 2 large front speakers, 2 small rear speakers and 1 central satellite speaker. All feature a Creative DSE (Dual Slot Enclosure) design and a Creative IFP (Image Focusing Plate) for precise acoustic directionality and sound integrity.
A built-in wired remote control with automatic system shutdown and volume control will add convenience to use.
The only significant downside is the plastic case. But with a 5.1 system, this has little effect on background sounds.
Creative Inspire T6300
- Compact sizes.
- Good sound.
- Unusual design.
- Auto power off function when there is no signal.
- Short satellite wires.
- There is no built-in tuner for listening to the radio.
Dialog AP-250
Floor-standing speakers with a 2.1 subwoofer, perfect for a computer or home theater. The black MDF cabinet will look great in any interior. A power of 80 W makes this system one of the leaders in sound in this rating.
The variety of connectors indicates compatibility with various devices, allowing you to listen to music from external media (USB drives, SD cards), as well as transfer them using Bluetooth. A distinctive feature is that the system is suitable for connecting karaoke, and through the optical S-PDIF input - to a home theater.
Dialog AP-250
- Housing made of high quality MDF.
- Built-in radio tuner.
- High power (80 W).
- Wireless remote control.
- The height of the speakers (40 cm) allows you to place them on the floor.
- Price.
- Stained body.
Logitech Z533
A powerful 2.1 speaker system provides dynamics and balance in the sound of low frequencies from the subwoofer. You can not only hear the bass, but also feel its vibrations. It’s convenient that you can connect 3 different devices at the same time (for example, a TV, a computer and a smartphone).
All control occurs from one built-in remote control. There are no settings on the speaker panel. Directly on the remote control there is an additional connector for connecting external devices and headphones.
Logitech Z533
- Great sound.
- Laconic design.
- Convenient settings.
- Great bass.
- Supports Bluetooth function.
- Plastic body of satellites.
- The remote control is too sensitive.
Edifier C2XD
One of the best 2.1 speakers for a computer, according to owner reviews, with an incredible design. In addition to 2 speakers and a subwoofer, the kit includes an external amplifier. All devices, the speakers themselves, are connected to it and controlled using a rotary control with color backlighting. The body of all parts of the systems is made of MDF. And the front sides of the speakers are additionally protected by acoustic decorative fabric.
The model uses a smart gain control function. That is, there is an independent regulation of sound distortion at the input and output of the amplifier. This is an innovative development of the Edifier company, which, unlike other manufacturers, is exclusively engaged in the production of audio equipment and accessories.
Edifier C2XD
- Clear sound without distortion.
- Availability of an amplifier.
- Connect to multiple devices simultaneously.
- Wireless remote control.
- Small sizes.
- High price.
Logitech G G560
Excellent gaming speakers for a computer with backlight and high power (120 W). There are functions of fixed color, breathing, color cycle, audio visualization, which are useful for listening to relaxing music or, on the contrary, a fun party. That is, the backlight reacts to what is happening on the screen, repeating its color shades with precision and changing them in the next frame. This creates a virtual reality effect that gamers will appreciate.
The most important parameter of acoustic systems (sound) is at the highest level. Explosive effect of 240 W peak power. And all your housemates will definitely hear what kind of music you like.
Logitech G G560
- Smart backlight mode.
- High quality sound.
- Combination of several sound sources.
- Simple and convenient controls.
- Great design.
- Price.
Which portable speaker is best to buy for a computer?
Before moving on to the parameters by which you should choose portable speakers, it should be noted that the selection of a good model largely depends on the tasks and purposes for which the user intends to purchase them.
Multimedia speakers are divided into several types, depending on the number of elements:
- If the system has only two columns, it is type 2.0;
- If it is supplemented with a subwoofer to cover the deep low-frequency range, then the result is a 2.1 system.
- With a larger number of columns, type 3.1, 4.1 and higher follows.
The vast majority of desktop audio systems consist of two speakers, sometimes supplemented by a subwoofer. Some gamers or movie buffs may need surround sound systems that include five or more speakers, but in this case there will be no talk of any portability.
Monoblock wireless speakers that can connect to a computer via Bluetooth, a USB interface or a 3.5 mm audio output can also act as portable systems for a computer. They are very comfortable and can have a built-in subwoofer. The main disadvantage of such speakers will be the lack of true stereo sound created by systems of two or more speakers. However, often the software for such models allows you to connect several devices into one system.
You should also consider the AC power supply. The vast majority of computer speakers, along with wireless capabilities, are “powered.” This means that an audio amplifier is built into the speaker itself to take the incoming signal and provide enough power to reproduce it. This solution is very convenient, since the speakers are connected to the computer directly. In the case of “passive” speakers, you must purchase a dedicated amplifier.
Amplifiers are used when the source device (in this case, the computer) cannot provide enough power to the headphones or speakers.
There are also other speaker systems called studio monitors. They blur the line between the previous two types by featuring non-amplified "active" speakers that produce better sound than speakers designed for use with a PC.
When choosing speakers, you should also pay attention to a number of additional points:
- Possibility of connecting speakers to a computer. If the PC has a limited number of USB ports, the user will probably want to use the more common 3.5mm audio output. Using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, you can stream music to any speaker that can receive the signal over the air.
- Audio controls: Is there a mute button, remote or voice control, or separate bass and treble controls for optimal audio settings.
For wireless speakers, battery life is an important consideration. Typical operating life ranges from 10 to 20 hours depending on the size and characteristics of the speaker. Listening at maximum volume will shorten battery life.
How a user plans to use the speakers will also help determine the best model for them. For example, if speakers are purchased for a work computer and will be used for watching videos or listening to the radio, then purchasing a large system with a subwoofer will be excessive. Conversely, if the owner intends to watch movies on a large monitor, he will need a powerful audio system to create a full-fledged home theater.
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comparison table
If you have not yet decided which speakers with a subwoofer to buy for your computer, we recommend comparing the parameters of all models from the rating using the corresponding table.
Model | Total power, W | Subwoofer power, W | Reproducible frequency range, Hz | Dimensions of front speakers, mm | Subwoofer dimensions, mm | Average price, rub. |
Ginzzu GM-415 | 50 | 30 | 40-20000 | 105x262x130 | 160x262x260 | 2400 |
CROWN MICRO CMBS-361 | 36 | 16 | 20-20000 | 105x210x115 | 280x210x230 | 3200 |
Defender G50 | 50 | 26 | 20-20000 | 106x188x121 | 170 x 317 x 295 | 4000 |
SVEN SPS-820 | 38 | 18 | 110x185x120 | 150x260x270 | 4200 | |
Microlab FC 330 | 56 | 24 | 35-20000 | 111x195x133 | 205x250x275 | 5000 |
Creative Inspire T6300 | 57 | 22 | 50-20000 | 86x177x93 | 175x227x263 | 5200 |
Dialog AP-250 | 80 | 50 | 40-20000 | 140x401x130 | 230x404x310 | 5900 |
Logitech Z533 | 60 | 30 | 55-20000 | 100x170x85 | 255x265x195 | 6200 |
Edifier C2XD | 53 | 35 | 55-18000 | 90x180x130 | 232x242x288 | 8500 |
Logitech G G560 | 120 | 60 | 40-18000 | 166x148x118 | 255x404x207 | 14000 |
How to properly connect speakers to a computer?
It would seem that at this point no questions should arise. But sometimes, when purchasing particularly complex models, you have to work hard to connect everything correctly.
What to pay attention to:
- Make sure that the PC sound card is suitable for working with this model. This information can be found in the documentation or specified upon purchase.
- The connectors on the speakers have different colors and must match the colors of the computer's sound card.
- Under each connector there are indications with the purpose (several letters are indicated). And the connectors themselves are called RCA or “Tulip” type sockets.
- To connect, you will need an adapter from RCA to miniJack 3.5 mm (AUX).
- One end of the adapter is plugged into the computer socket, the other into the speaker socket.
- Check the polarities before connecting so as not to spoil the sound of the audio system ahead of time.
- Next, you can turn on the computer, wait for the operating system to fully load and start the audio system.
- Customize the sound settings the way you like.
The main thing is to carefully read the instructions, which should always be included in the kit.
The best portable speakers for a high-end computer
Top-of-the-line models offer excellent sound quality, as well as extensive control and customization options.
Razer Nommo Pro
5
★★★★★
editorial assessment
100%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
A powerful top-level model, created specifically for gamers who do not want to save money on creating the ideal gaming atmosphere. The dual speaker and subwoofer system offers superbly balanced, immersive sound that's perfect for watching movies and enhancing any gaming experience. The acoustics support Dolby Virtual Speaker surround sound technology and also provide excellent stereo, making it easy to determine the position of the sound source - an important help for fans of online games.
The proprietary RGB backlight has ample opportunities for fine-tuning through special software, which also works with iOS and Android systems. There you can switch between presets and several sound modes. Connection to devices is carried out through several connectors or using Bluetooth. But the considerable size of the system, primarily the subwoofer, makes us think about having enough space to place the acoustics near the computer.
Pros:
- Crisp and clear sound.
- Powerful bass.
- Branded lighting.
- Easy to use setup app.
- Excellent connection quality with external devices.
Minuses:
- Price.
The desktop speaker system from the renowned company Razer is equipped with attractive lighting and a powerful subwoofer, giving gamers loud sound. A great addition to any home gaming system that will look good on your computer desk or room.
Audioengine A5+
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
95%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
If the user needs a high-quality and versatile speaker system, this model will be one of the best options. It combines the capabilities of wireless speakers with the technical characteristics of great wired systems. The device body is made in a classic style with several colors to choose from. The front panel of the left speaker contains a volume control, a power LED, and a receiver for the included remote control.
Connection to other devices is via Bluetooth, 3.5mm jack and RCA. A wired connection does not interrupt the Bluetooth signal, so it is possible to connect multiple devices to the speakers at once. Listeners can optionally enhance the system with a subwoofer, but even without it, the sound quality is at the highest level. The user hears dense, sharp bass and a sound as close as possible to the original music, regardless of the volume level.
Pros:
- Superb sound and powerful bass.
- Excellent wireless quality.
- Variability of wired connection.
- Can be used with a subwoofer.
Minuses:
- There are some difficulties in management.
This wonderful high-end model provides excellent sound that can satisfy even sophisticated music lovers.
Klipsch R-41PM
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
92%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
One of the most versatile speaker systems available. The speakers deliver stunning bass depth with virtually no distortion at high volume levels. Adding a subwoofer will create additional depth to the music scene, but it is not necessary.
The model can connect to a computer directly via a USB port. Bluetooth connectivity is also convenient and allows you to play music from almost any source. The available remote control allows you to control the volume of the speakers and subwoofer, provided it is connected, as well as mute the sound and configure the Bluetooth connection. There are also special buttons for various sound sources.
Pros:
- Superb sound with rich bass.
- High quality connection, including Bluetooth.
- Beautiful design.
- Many different ports for connection.
Minuses:
- There is no automatic connection with connected devices.
These speakers may be designed to work with a subwoofer, but even without one, they produce powerful sound regardless of the connection type (wired or Bluetooth). The model can hardly be called affordable, but it is one of the best options in the all-in-one style.