The Best Computer Speakers

A quality computer speaker system is required to enhance the listening pleasure of those who use their computer for music, movies, or gaming. Fortunately there are many excellent computer speakers to choose from depending upon personal needs and budget. After scouring reviews at PCMag, Cnet, CrunchGear and Amazon, the following are our picks for the best computer speakers. And the best part is that each system comes in at under $200.00. 

Logitech Z623 Computer Speakers

Logitech THX-Certified Computer Speaker System Z623

Logitech has a long-standing reputation for making mid-range, quality computer speakers at an affordable price. The Logitech Z623 computer speaker system was one of PCMag’s Best of the Year products for 2010. It features a sleek, efficient design ideal for desktop listening. THX-certified, the 2.1 system offers 200 total watts of power with a 130 watt subwoofer and 2 35W satellite speakers as well as convenient inputs for multiple devices including computers, iPods, DVD players, and gaming consoles.

Pros: Sound quality is commended by reviewers at PCMag, CrunchGear, and Amazon. Clarity and power are unrivaled at this price range. Subwoofer presents a powerful bass that can be easily adjusted by the on-speaker nob. No buzzing at high volume. RCA and 3.5 mm inputs provide simple transfer between devices. THX certified.

Cons: There is no remote control, which may not be an issue if it’s being used in a desktop computer setting. Subwoofer is on the large side at 11.9 by 11.1 by 10.4 inches, so space would be a consideration. The cables aren’t removable, which means they can’t be switched out and one reviewer commented they could be a little longer. THX certified does not mean you’re going to get movie theater surround sound quality.

The LogitechZ632 computer speaker system retails for $149.99, but is currently on sale at Amazon for $136.99

Harman Kardon Soundsticks III Computer Speakers

Harman Kardon Soundsticks III: Computer Speakers

The Harman Kardon Soundsticks III may look futuristic, but actually have now become a classic, praised design in the multimedia speaker arena. They also hold a permanent exhibit at New York City’s Museum of Modern Art. The third generation system was redesigned for 2010. Features on this 2.1 sound system include 8 full-range transducers powered by a 10-watt amplifier in each speaker and 1 low-frequency, down-firing subwoofer powered by a 20-watt amplifier for bass. The system connects to 3.5 mm stereo devices such as computers and Mp3s.

Pros: The Harman Kardon Soundsticks received editor’s choice on both PCMag and Cnet for excellent sound performance and unique, aesthetic design. The frequency response range of 44Hz to 20KHz offers crisp definition for all forums: music, movies, and gaming. Power switch built in to the volume control on the subwoofer makes for energy efficiency. Satellite speakers can be angled to personal preference. You can own a piece of art and pop culture.

Cons: Missing from this system is a remote control and a headphone jack. Cables cannot be replaced. The volume control does not feature a visual display of volume level.

The Harman Kardon Soundsticks III are on sale at Amazon for $145.81 or you can buy them direct from the Harman Kardon site.

Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 Wireless Computer Speakers

Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 Wireless Computer Speakers

The Klipsch ProMedia delivers exemplary, award-winning sound quality with the uber-convenience of a wireless computer speaker system. The USB wireless transmitter can stream audio from your computer to the speaker system from up to 30 feet away. Features a 2.4 GHz wireless signal and a total wattage of 120 watts between the 2 satellite speakers and subwoofer.

Pros: No pesky wires to clutter up the space. According to the review by PCMag, this system “packs so much power you’ll rarely raise the volume beyond half-way”. Perfect sound quality for music, movies, and games. Using Apple’s Remote Application, iPhone customers can wirelessly access iTunes on their computer. Black cloth grilles are removable. It’s also THX certified.

Cons: No remote control. Power switch is inconveniently located on the subwoofer. Not 100% wireless- satellite speakers are connected via wire to the subwoofer, which cannot be switched out. The wireless signal can sometimes be interrupted.

The Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 wireless computer speakers are only available through Klipsch on their website or via Amazon for $199.99.

Cyber Acoustics CA-3602 Computer Speakers

Cyber Acoustics CA-3602 Computer Speakers

This 2.1, 3-piece speaker system from Cyber Acoustics is our budget pick for a computer speaker set-up. There aren’t many tech reviews on this model, but the user reviews are outstanding with 109 5 star reviews on Amazon and 168 5 star reviews on Wize. Cyber Acoustics has been putting out quality, affordable audio equipment since the 80s. This system includes 2 satellite speakers, a subwoofer, a separate desktop control pod for volume, power, and bass, and a cradle for your Mp3.

Pros: The price: with an MSRP of $54.99, the CA-3602 may not be the cheapest computer speaker, but it will deliver a more powerful sound than other discount speaker systems. The low-end bass sound has been rated as excellent. The desktop control is convenient and features an LED light when turned on and also contains a headphone jack. A good choice as a basic computer speaker.

Cons: Many users commented on the bass being too much, which lends to a lack of a decent mid-range sound. May not be the best choice for music listening. Speakers aren’t protected by a covering.

The Cyber Acoustics CA-3602 is currently on sale on Amazon for $37.23.

JBL Duet III Computer Speakers

JBL Duet III Computer Speakers

Tight on space? The JBL Duet III computer speakers are perfect for a small desktop setting or for your laptop. They are simple to set up and offer versatility with an AC adapter and a 3.5mm jack to plug into a Mac, Mp3, PC, or CD player. The 2 satellite speakers put out 10 watts each of power. There’s no subwoofer here, but the Duet IIIs are slightly larger than the predecessor, the Duet II, and therefore provide a bit more bass, though still not as powerful as a 2.1 system.

Pros: The design is both aesthetically pleasing and convenient for work space. Both Cnet and PCMag recommend these computer speakers for decent sound quality at modest volume levels. These would be good in a work environment. Speakers connect to each other with a standard RCA plug. The price is reasonable at the Amazon sale price of around $100.00.

Cons: Not for bass lovers or those who are looking for loads of power. There isn’t an auxiliary input to plug in a second device as most of the other computer speakers offer. The price on JBL’s website is a bit hefty at $149.95.

The JBL Duet III computer speakers are currently on sale at Amazon for $107.98.

Audioengine 2 Multi-Media Computer Speakers

Audioengine 2 Multi-Media Computer Speakers

Audioengine has successfully married compact size with superior sound and convenient features for a high quality computer speaker. Perfect for those who want a comparable subwoofer sound without the subwoofer, features on the Audioengine 2 include 2 audio inputs for both RCA and mini-jack, AC adapter, 15 watts of power per speaker with the left speaker housing power amps, Kevlar woofers and silk tweeters, and an auto-sleep power saving mode.

Pros: Compact design fits well for a computer set-up. Superior sound clarity as reviewed by Cnet, PCMag and Amazon customers who have given these computer speakers an average 4.5 star rating. Music and movies can be played at high volumes with no buzzing or distortion. Speakers are housed in hand-built wood cabinets to help amplify the bass. Versatile to use with computers, Mp3s, dvd and cd players, game consoles, and some televisions.

Cons: The price is $199.00, which some may find pricey for a 2 speaker system. The volume control is inconveniently located on the back of the speaker and doesn’t come with a remote control. PCMag thought the bass was slightly lacking compared with a subwoofer system.

The Audioengine 2 computer speakers are on sale at Amazon for $199.00.

M-Audio Studiophile AV 40 Powered Computer Speakers

M-Audio Studiophile AV 40 Powered Computer Speakers

Size does matter in the case of the M-Audio Studiophile AV 40 computer speakers. Six inches wide and a depth of 7.25, the M-Audios are larger than other computer speakers and pack a powerful punch with 20 watts per speaker, 4-inch polypropylene-coated woofers and 3/4-inch tweeters. Other features include RCA inputs on both speakers, a 3.5 mm jack, a headphone jack, and an integrated bass boost switch.

Pros: Excellent sound quality and ample low end bass levels for those who listen to music or watch movies on their computer. The editor’s review at Cnet says “they sounded bigger, delivered more bass, and played louder than the other PC speakers we had on hand”. Contain nice features like the bass boost and multiple inputs for versatility.

Cons: Though there’s no subwoofer to make room for, these speakers will still take up considerable space on your desktop. They also weigh 14 pounds each so if you’re looking for portability, say in conjunction with a laptop or switching between devices, then these are not the ones.

The M-Audio Studiophile AV 40 computer speakers are currently on sale at Amazon for $149.00.

Best Headsets Hands Free

The best headsets have been created in response to the amount of laws now in place against driving with cell phones in front of our faces. Manufacturers have jumped in to help consumers keep talking on their phones without having to actually hold it by creating headsets hands free. These headsets hands free are capable of holding a call while users engage in basically any task. There are many different types of designs, such as the earbud style with microphone attached to the cable, or the Bluetooth type that just sits in a users ear and features a mic attached to the end, which points towards the mouth. Manufacturers like Plantronics, Panasonic, Etymotic, and Bose have all begun making various headsets hands free, which have allowed consumers to test each style and find which is best suited to their needs.

The High-Fidelity Etymotic Research HF2

Best Handsets Hands Free: Etymotic Research HF2

The Etymotic Research HF2 Hands Free Headset is an earbud style headset hands free that provides users with some of the best sound quality on the market. With a 20Hz-16kHz frequency response as well as great noise isolation with the adjustable ear tips. There is even an in-line control button that can pause your music or skip tracks. It is compatible with the iPhone (2.5 and 3G versions), Blackberry Curve, Blackberry Bold, and Blackberry Storm and many other smartphones.

While it’s a bit pricey, users have claimed the sound isolation is superb, though at times it can take a bit of time to optimize for each user. Users love the in-line control and the sound quality is far and beyond many similarly priced headsets hands free.

The Etymotic Research HF2 Hands Free Headset is available at Amazon for $144.

The iPhone Compatible Bose Mobile In-Ear

Best Headsets Hands Free: Bose Mobile InEar

The Bose Mobile In-Ear Headset Hands Free employs a similar earbud style as the headphones that come with an iPhone. A tiny mic is attached to the cable near where a user’s mouth would be. Like those headphones, the Bose headset hands free is capable of switching between music and a phone call with ease. It comes with three different ear tips for different sized ears. It also employs the classic sound of Bose speakers in a tiny package. There are three adaptors available for different types of cell phone compatibility.

With a four star rating from Amazon, users really love this best headset hands free.  While some users claimed they didn’t fit their ears, that’s really based on an individual’s ear size. Some users also mention that the treble is a bit low, on oddity for most headphones. Another user noted that a volume control on the cord would have been nice, but overall it’s a great value.

The Bose Mobile In-Ear Headset Hands Free is available at Amazon for $129.

The Compact Plantronics Voyager 510 Bluetooth

Best Handsets Hands Free: Plantronics Voyager 510 Bluetooth

The Plantronics Voyager 510 Bluetooth Headset is a compact device that allows users to talk without the burden of holding a phone or the hassle of an external cable. It has a feature that lets you switch between two different BlueTooth devices as well as a one touch call feature and a dialing feature that is based off your voice. Its battery claims to be able to take 6 hours of talk time. The microphone is designed to be noise cancelling, allowing users to walk through busy streets with no interference. The footprint of this device is very efficient for users trying to cut down on extraneous equipment in their daily life.

With an astounding four an a half star review on Amazon after thousands of users’ input, this handset hands free is definitely one of the best.  Some users note that the noise cancelling feature on the microphone is not as strong as it claims to be, and other users have said that the battery may only get around 3 hours of talk time total on a full battery. But overall, most users laud the sound quality and ease of use.

The Plantronics Voyager 510 Bluetooth Headset is available at Amazon for $45.

The Foldable Panasonic KX-TCA92 Comfort Fit Headset

Best Headsets Hands Free: Panasonic KX-TCA92 Comfort Fit

The Panasonic KX-TCA92 Comfort Fit Headset Hands Free has great portability with its foldable design. Its noise-cancelling microphone is fully adjustable, and the headset hands free is fully reversible for either ear. There is a volume control on the cable and a mute button. Overall it’s a very simple design that provides comfort and control.

Amazon users give it three and a half stars, claiming it a decent buy for its feature set. Some users have claimed the mic can be a bit quiet in certain environments, and users have also claimed that the mute button is a hassle because you’re forced to hold it down when in use.  Overall, still a great buy at the price point.

The Panasonic KX-TCA92 Comfort Fit Headset Hands Free is available through Amazon for $60.

Audiophiles have long been presented with an unending dilemma, pitting the need for sonic perfection against the desire to maintain a comfortable, aesthetic living environment (and happy spouse). This is usually a precarious balance, since the best-sounding speakers are often the largest and, dare we say, ugliest. While many technologies have addressed this dilemma in part, none have laid it to rest.

Flat, Flexible Loudspeakers have a shot, if indeed they perform as advertised. These speakers designed by University of Warwick spinoff company Warwick Audio Technologies are an astounding quarter of a millimeter thick. As the name designates they are also quite pliable and can be molded in or wrapped around virtually any type of surface. They are also printable and capable of being cut into various shapes. Size them, cut them and bend them into whatever space that you are working with and experience high quality audio, without any spacial imposition. Warwick has provided several such examples of just how easy they’d be to conceal in a vehicle, in the ceiling or even right on the wall disguised as a piece of artwork. These speakers could easily be the most seamless audio component ever designed.

Of course, you’re thinking: “How could something that looks like a flimsy piece of plexiglass ever sound as good as my 250-pound KEF Muons?” And you’re correct. These speakers can be micro-thin and flexible until they vanish into thin air, but they won’t be worth the raw materials used, if they don’t sound good.

Until we hear a pair of these loudspeakers or at least see some testimonials outside of those offered by company officials, it will be difficult to tell. The information that has been offered has been very general and polished. However, Warwick has claimed that the audio is both accurate and powerful. The FFL material is a laminate composed of sandwiched insulators and conductors, which with the addition of the electrical audio signal, vibrates and produces a planar wave with high directivity and precise imaging. The wave spreads evenly across a listening room or audience and doesn’t drop off sharply based on distance.  Warwick has also expounded upon the fact that FFLs are inexpensive to manufacture, meaning that they could be a viable option for basic home and car audio.

Warwick describes the speakers as efficient and low power, driven by voltage and dissipating little current into heat. Distortion is also said to be minimal. This statement offers a very promising glimpse:  “By significantly improving the electrical to audio efficiency, we have broken the conventional link between the power rating and the loudness of a speaker. The loudness of cone speakers is often linked to the electrical power consumption. This is not a relevant relationship for the FFL.” Perhaps, in addition to space, you can save a little money on the amplifier.

While the company’s claim that the speakers will serve well for public PA systems because of the ability of the sound wave to travel further and deteriorate less than conventional speakers is rather uninspiring (who really cares about the sound quality of a supermarket price check), the company has stated some perceived interest amongst manufacturers of car audio applications and others. No word as to exactly where they might show up, but “the company is currently in negotiations with a number of commercial partners and continues to welcome fresh approaches. It expects to launch its first commercial product following the next funding round later this year.” Currently, they are offering evaluation kits to audio engineers to work toward applying FFL technology.

Hopefully, the Flat, Flexible Loudspeaker design will do more than just fizzle into faded memory like so many promising ideas. If FFLs can perform up to the hype (or at least some of it) and are truly inexpensive, they could quickly take over home audio as we know it.