The Best Budget PC Speakers for 2023

With an emphasis on visuals in gaming and some Nvidia graphic cards costing thousands of dollars, it’s easy to forget how important sound is when constructing a new PC rig. Most video cards and motherboards have integrated sound chips sparing the need for a pricey dedicated sound card, but that doesn’t mean gamers have to settle for 2nd rate speakers. Fortunately, even without spending a ton of cash, the best budget PC speakers are capable of enhancing the sound of games and movies, making sitting at a computer desk a far more immersive experience.

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When finishing a PC setup, too often sufficient space is not set reserved on a desk for large speakers. Budget computer speakers not only can provide surprisingly loud and dynamic sound but also have the advantage of coming in a compact form factor. These reasonably priced speakers can also connect to more than just desktops or laptops, allowing computer desks to become multimedia stations for audio from smartphones or portable gaming consoles like the Nintendo Switch. Also, RGB lighting included on some speaker systems brings a more distinctive look to any PC rig. The speakers included in this list defy their labels as budget devices with performance, connectivity, and style that rank them favorably against the best computer speakers in any price range.

Creative Pebble Plus 2.1 Desktop Speakers

Best Overall Budget PC Speakers

Creative Pebble Plus 2.1 USB Desktop Speakers

Building upon the success of the original Creative Pebble speakers, the Pebble Plus 2.1 USB PC speakers add a standalone 4″ down-firing subwoofer while maintaining its surprisingly low pricetag. The iconic stone-shaped speakers are compact and designed with dual far-field drivers sending crisp and clear audio toward the listener at a 45-degree angle. 
The Pebble Plus 2.1 speakers can connect to a wall outlet with available USB power adapters for High Gain Mode, enabling even more robust sound. Otherwise, listeners can connect the Pebble Plus 2.1 to most PCs and laptops without the need for an additional power source. 

Connection

Wired, USB

Number Included

2+ Subwoofer

Brand

Creative

Pros

• Powerful sound for the price
• Angled speakers direct sound right to ears
• Includes subwoofer for added bass

Cons

• Only one input
• Not wireless compatible

$49.99 at Amazon

Following up on the innovative Pebble Speakers, with the Creative Pebble Plus 2.1, the company managed to add a subwoofer while keeping it at an irresistible budget price. Including a 4″ down-firing subwoofer, listeners can now experience a more authentic room-filling sound without spending a hundred dollars or more.

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Of course, the orb-shaped left and right speakers are what define the Creative Pebble Plus 2.1 and what users will see every day as they play games or listen to music. The design of these speakers is not only space-saving but effectively directs sound toward a listener’s ears and is ideal for placing them at the height of a typical computer desk. The Pebble Plus 2.1 are powered through USB ports on most desktops and laptops, but Creative includes a separate power adapter to ensure listeners always hear the system in its full glory. The included subwoofer and desk-friendly shape of the Creative Pebble Plus 2.1 makes it the overall best budget PC speakers on the market.

Logitech Z313 2.1 Multimedia Speaker System

Best Wired Budget PC Speakers

Logitech Z313 2.1 Multimedia Speaker System

The Logitech Z313 provides 50 watts of total power including a 15-watt subwoofer while remaining compact and budget-friendly. The left and right speakers have a minimalist modern design that blends in with any computer desk. With a simple setup, any device using a 3.5 analog audio input can connect to the Z313 system in seconds, whether it’s a PC, console, or media player. The included control pod provides the convenience of volume and power controls plus a headphone jack in easy reach.
 

Brand

Logitech

Connectivity

Wired

Number Included

2+ Subwoofer

Pros

• Great value with included subwoofer
• Control pod for easy adjustments
• Well-balanced audio

Cons

• Can’t modify bass levels
• No wireless connections

$59.99 at Amazon

Logitech has a long history of producing affordable PC speaker systems and headsets that sound like higher-end products, and the Logitech Z313 faithfully carries on this tradition. At a price far less than equally powerful computer speakers, the Z313 pumps out a total of 50 watts of power with the included subwoofer. The Z313 also boasts premium features like active crossover, which provides a clearer and more dynamic sound.

Another highlight of the Logitech Z313 is the control pod which extends outwards from the rest of the system, making it simple to turn the speakers on and off and adjust volume levels. The Z313 does not include wireless capabilities, but Logitech sells a separate Bluetooth audio adapter to connect wireless devices to the system. However, for desktops and laptops, listeners will find that the Z313 is the best budget computer speakers money can buy.

Creative T60 2.0 Hi-Fi Desktop Speakers

Best Wireless Budget PC Speakers

Creative T60 2.0 Hi-Fi Desktop Speakers

The Creative T60 2.0 Hi-Fi Desktop Speakers emphasize audio clarity but don’t sacrifice power either with 2.75″ full-range drivers and an output of up to 60W. Powered by Creative’s famous Sound Blaster technology for a richer sound, the system also benefits from BasXPort which produces intense tones for 2.0 speaker setup. 
The Creative T60 is the ideal speaker system for headset users with the ability to easily switch between the 3.5 mm Aux-in port and headphones. Creative’s SmartComms Kit software filters out background noise and makes voices sound better than ever. Bluetooth 5.0 connections are also available to connect to wireless audio sources. 

Connection

USB, Wired, Bluetooth

Number Included

2

Brand

Creative

Pros

• Ideal for for headset and headphone users
• SmartComms software improves voice quality
• Bluetooth 5.0 compatibility

Cons

• Lacks a subwoofer
• Glossy finish attracts fingerprints

$79.99 at Amazon

Surprisingly, there are Bluetooth speakers regularly sold that are more inexpensive than some well-reviewed high-end wired PC speaker systems. However, those wireless speakers are usually geared toward portability and music playing, rather than gaming and watching movies at home. The Creative T60 attempts to combine the best of both worlds, with a powerful 2 speaker system that can connect to PCs and also any Bluetooth device. RELATED: The Best PC Gaming Headsets in 2023

Even without a subwoofer, the left and right speakers of the T60 pack a wallop with a 60-watt output and the system employs Creative’s BasXPort to enhance low tones. Users who connect headsets to the Creative T60 will benefit from the company’s SmartComms software which makes multiplayer gaming chat free of annoying background noise, like the best noise-canceling PC headsets. With its vast array of connections and powerful sound output, the Creative T60 ranks at the top of the best budget computer speakers.

Redragon GS520 RGB Desktop Speakers

Best Budget PC Speakers for Gaming

Redragon GS520 RGB Desktop Speakers

Get all of your PC accessories from one place with the Redragon GS520 RGB Desktop Speakers. If you’re familiar with Redragon PC accessories, these speakers are sure to be a step in the right direction for your gaming rig. Decorated with vivid RGB lighting all the way down, these Redragon speakers look the part to make your gaming setup look clean and in sync with the rest of your gear. These minimalist-designed speakers can fit on any desktop, short enough to fit under monitors or in front of a keyboard easily.

Connection

USB/Wireless

Number Included

2

Brand

Redragon

Pros

• Attractive RGB lighting
• Strong bass
• Premium brushed metal finish

Cons

• Speakers revert to max volume when reset
• Large size

$39.99 at Amazon

Most gamers look for PC speakers that not only sound great but also have distinctive styling. The Redragon GS520 RGB Desktop Speakers are USB-supported speakers that provide excellent sound with minimal distortion. Equipped with advanced sound drive units, the Redragon GS520 RGB Desktop Speakers have superior audio capabilities for speakers this compact. The GS520 RGB Desktop Speakers can fit right on your desk, perfect for PC needs. With the RGB lighting on the Redragon GS520 RGB Desktop Speakers, you can decorate your gaming rig to match your own unique aesthetic.

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The Redragon GS520 RGB Desktop Speakers offer touch-controlled RGB lighting that you can change within seconds. Not only do they offer quality sound, but the lighting bar for each speaker is attractive, bright, and fully customizable. With a minimalist style, the Redragon GS520 RGB Desktop Speakers are perfect for those who don’t want their speakers to take up too much valuable space on their desks.

SteelSeries Arena 3 Full-Range 2.0 Gaming Speakers

Most Powerful Budget PC Speakers

SteelSeries Arena 3 Full-Range 2.0 Gaming Speakers

$98.99

$129.99

Save $31

The SteelSeries Arena 3 are a seriously high-powered set of speakers that give a rich dynamic sound to games and movies. The Arena 3 has huge 4-inch drivers, providing ample volume and balanced low, mid, and high tones. Gaming sound rises to the next level with surround sound effects and supported spatial audio formats.
The Arena 3 offers a diverse set of connections including ports for PCs, headsets, and wireless Bluetooth sources. There is a convenient multifunction button on the speakers to adjust volume and pair devices. 

Connection

Wired, Bluetooth

Number Included

2

Brand

SteelSeries

Pros

• Tremendous volume
• Immersive dynamic sound
• Supports wired and Bluetooth sources

Cons

• Lacks subwoofer
• Software not always intuitive

$98.99 at Amazon

PC speakers have an unfortunate reputation for lacking the power of larger speakers intended for home cinemas. The SteelSeries Arena 3 effectively demonstrates that a pair of desktop speakers can fill a room with sound without costing hundreds of dollars. Known for their gaming peripherals, it’s no shock that SteelSeries has designed a set of speakers targeted at gamers, enabling a more immersive experience while playing the most popular titles.

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The advantage in raw power for the Arena 3 comes from its massive 4-inch drivers, and despite lacking a subwoofer, the balanced full-range audio of the speakers never fails to impress. The SteelSeries Arena 3 is not strictly for gaming, however, thanks to its support for Bluetooth devices. Smartphones and tablets are easily paired to the speakers using the multifunction button on its base. With its loud, dynamic output and versatility, the SteelSeries Arena 3 are the best computer speakers for anyone looking to step up from typically underpowered desktop options.

Creative Stage Air V2 2.0 Soundbar Speaker

Best Compact Budget PC Speakers

Creative Stage Air V2 2.0

The Creative Stage Air V2 is a Bluetooth soundbar speaker designed to fit into cramped spaces on desktops. Measuring just 16.1″ wide, the Stage Air V2 is a great option to place under PC monitors and preserve valuable desk space. The Stage Air V2 includes connections for Bluetooth as well as USB-C audio and a 3.5 mm analog audio port. 
The Stage Air V2 is also a great option as a portable Bluetooth speaker with a 6-hour rechargeable battery included. With simple playbook and volume controls on the side of the device and LED indicator lights, the Stage Air V2 not only sounds better than most wireless speakers but also is easier to use. 

Brand

Creative

Connectivity

Wired, USB, Bluetooth

Speaker configuration

Soundbar

Pros

• Compact yet powerful
• Versatile connections
• Surprisingly ample bass

Cons

• Glossy finish prone to fingerprints
• No headphone out jack

$49.99 at Amazon

Soundbars are appreciated because they take up less space than a room full of speakers. The Creative Stage Air V2 takes things a step further with such a compact design that it can fit under most PC monitors, saving desk space ordinarily occupied by 2 left and right-channel speakers. Buyers won’t sacrifice anything in terms of connectivity, since the Creative Stage Air V2 can connect to PCs using an analog audio input or USB-C, as well as portable devices like the Nintendo Switch with Bluetooth 5.3.

Even with an output of 20 watts, the Stage Air V2 will outmuscle most portable Bluetooth speakers with a wider and more dynamic soundstage. The fact that the Creative Stage Air V2 can function effectively both at home as a PC speaker or when taken on the road makes it a value that’s hard to beat. The glossy black finish on the soundbar gives the device a classy touch despite the inevitable fingerprints it invites. Overall, the compact Stage Air V2 is the best budget computer speakers because of its versatility and specs that crush other portable speakers.

Chafon 2.0 Bluetooth Computer Speakers

Best RGB Budget PC Speakers

CHAFON Computer Speakers

The CHAFON Computer Speakers are a pair of budget speakers that you can plug into your PC or connect to wireless Bluetooth sources. With two strips of RGB lights going up the sides of the CHAFON Computer Speakers, you not only have good sound on your hands with these but sophisticated style as well. Change the colors of the CHAFON Computer Speakers with a simple flick of a switch to match your keyboard, fans, or exterior lights surrounding your desk.

Connection

USB

Number Included

2

Brand

CHAFON

Pros

• Full-range 2.0 sound
• Dynamic RGB lighting effects
• Multifunction control knob

Cons

• No built-in battery
• Bluetooth audio not as loud

$24.59 at Amazon

Dynamic RGB lighting has become increasingly popular on a wide range of PC peripherals including keyboards and mice. The CHAFON Computer Speakers are speakers that bring RGB lighting to gaming rigs at a budget price. They provide supreme audio using independent drivers with full-range enhanced stereo sound. With upgraded chip and software settings on its interior, the CHAFON Computer Speakers demonstrate innovative sound efficiency, low distortion, and convenient controls. Simply touch the dial on the surface of the speaker to pause, play, turn up, turn down, or otherwise adjust any other audio settings. No longer do you need to rely on other media controls to get the best out of your sound with CHAFON Computer Speakers.

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The CHAFON Computer Speakers have enhanced RGB lighting via five separate LEDs on the sides of the speakers. The CHAFON Computer Speakers’ lights help enhance both the music and gaming experience by offering players the option to sync their lights with sounds. When not using lights to make an area more dynamic, users can change the color, cycle, and speed of their light rotation at the simple press of a button. Lights can also be easily turned off for convenience.

SOULION R30 Computer Speakers

Best Soundbar Budget Speakers

SOULION R30 Computer Speakers

$22.99

$25.99

Save $3

The SOULION R30 Computer Speakers are a portable set of speakers in the form of a lengthy but attractive soundbar. Portable, sleek, and convenient to hold, the SOULION R30 Computer Speakers provide clear and powerful sound wherever it goes, no matter what type of connection type you use. At a 30-degree incline, the sound is aimed directly at listeners.
Phones, tablets, computers, and gaming systems can connect to the SOULION R30 Computer Speakers via a Bluetooth, USB, or aux cord connection. RGB lighting effects enhance music and games and can be turned on and off with a switch. 

Connection

Bluetooth, USB, Aux

Number Included

1

Brand

Soulion

Pros

• 2 full range speakers
• Includes RGB lighting
• Compact size

Cons

• USB and audio cables are hard wired
• Not much bass

$22.99 at Amazon

The SOULION R30 Computer Speakers is a long soundbar that provides crisp sound from Soulion’s booster technology. With two full-range speakers inside the soundbar, the SOULION R30 Computer Speakers have enough power to create stunning rich sounds, even when you turn the volume down to lower levels. The SOULION R30 Computer Speakers make for a perfect soundbar in the living room, or for your PC rig. Having multiple uses, the SOULION R30 Computer Speakers can sync up to almost anything with a Bluetooth connection. It can also connect to smartphones, tablets, and other wireless devices to produce big sound from any source.

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Being relatively portable, the SOULION R30 Computer Speakers provide impactful audio wherever they go. The 30-degree incline design on the back of the SOULION R30 Computer Speakers allows sound to travel from the speaker more effectively, making it cover more distance in a smaller form factor. The lights on the side of the speakers provide brilliant RGB lighting, even if the speaker isn’t plugged into a power source. As soundbars become more popular choices for gaming speakers, the SOULION R30 ranks among the best budget PC speakers in this compact format.

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FAQ

Q: What are some factors to consider when buying new PC speakers?

There are several factors to consider when buying new PC speakers, including sound quality, size and design, connectivity options, and price. You should also consider whether you want a 2.0 or 2.1 speaker system, as well as whether you want wired or wireless connectivity.

Q: Can I use my PC speakers with other devices, such as my phone or tablet?

Many PC speakers come with multiple connectivity options, such as Bluetooth or a 3.5mm auxiliary input, which allow you to use them with other devices such as phones or tablets. It’s a good idea to check the connectivity options of any PC speaker you’re considering to ensure it meets your needs.

Q: What are the differences between 2.0 and 2.1 PC speakers?

2.0 PC speakers consist of two separate speakers that produce stereo sound, while 2.1 PC speakers consist of two speakers and a separate subwoofer that produces bass. 2.1 systems generally offer more immersive sound, but 2.0 systems can be more compact and easier to set up.