Welcome fellow gamers! Proper audio is crucial for truly immersing yourself in the gaming experience. The right PC gaming speakers can elevate your play with directional and dynamic sound.
Unfortunately, built-in monitor speakers often leave much to be desired in terms of quality. Investing in a good set of PC gaming speakers gives you a serious audio edge.
In this post, we’ll be recommending the absolute best computer speakers across various budgets and needs. We researched dozens of options to showcase the top 10 pc speaker picks for enhancing your gaming setup. Let’s dive in!
Why PC Gaming Speakers Matter
- Gaming pc speakers allow you to hear crisp, clear sounds and pinpoint directions – gaining a tactical advantage in competitive multiplayer.
- Explosions and action sequences really come alive with expanded frequency ranges and punchy bass.
- Dialogue in story-driven games gets boosted so you never miss narrative details.
- Even solo casual gaming is more immersive with a full, detailed soundscape.
- Onboard monitor speakers have terrible narrow range sound quality. It’s night and day upgrading to decent external pc gaming audio.
Quality matters. The right gaming sound system brings your gameplay to life and keeps you competitively on point.
Factors to Consider for Gaming Speakers
When selecting new gaming speakers, there are a few key factors to consider in order to find the best audio setup for your needs. The speakers you choose should complement your gaming rig, space, and budget to optimize your overall experience.
The ideal gaming speakers deliver immersive and dynamic sound that transports you right into the game. To achieve great audio quality, keep these important factors in mind when evaluating different speaker options.
Sound Quality
- Wider frequency ranges and dedicated subwoofers provide complete, layered audio.
- Clear mids/highs and powerful lower frequencies both contribute.
- Volume output needs to suitable for filling your gaming space.
Drivers
- Larger drivers and higher wattage mean louder, richer sound.
- Multiple drivers divide output across frequency ranges.
- 2.0, 2.1, 5.1 configurations (number of satellite speakers + subwoofer)
Connectivity
- Modern pc gaming systems utilize both wired and wireless connectivity options.
- Bluetooth provides flexible, cable-free use.
- Wired connections ensure lag-free transmission.
Size and Form Factor
- Desktop speakers offer a compact experience while soundbars fit under monitors.
- Surround speaker setups work for larger gaming spaces.
- Form factor impacts sound expansion and aesthetics.
Budget
- Inexpensive budget pc speakers around $50 offer decent upgrades over built-in audio.
- Mid-tier models in the $100-200 range provide serious sound for most.
- For premium immersive audio, expect to spend $500+ on high-end systems.
Brands
Popular reputable speaker brands known for great gaming audio include Logitech, Razer, Creative, Audioengine, Klipsch, JBL and more.
The Best PC Gaming Speakers of 2023
We’ve selected standout models perfect for all gaming needs and budgets:
Overall Best: Logitech Z533
Priced under $100, the Logitech Z533 is our top overall pick for exceptional PC audio. The THX-certified 2.1 speaker system delivers 95W of peak power for room-filling sound.
Dual drivers provide loud, crystal clear audio and punchy bass. The control pod allows easy volume and bass adjustments. An excellent full audio upgrade for most gamers.
Price: $79.99
Features: 2.1 system, Dual 2.5” Drivers + 6.5” sub. THX Audio, 95W Peak Power, Headphone Jack.
Best Budget: Creative Pebble v2
The Creative Pebble v2 only costs around $25 but offers a massive improvement over built-in audio. The USB-powered speakers feature a compact, minimalist design for desktops.
The 2-channel audio and 45W peak offer surprising clarity and volume. Easy plug and play setup. A must-buy upgrade for gamers on a budget.
Price: $23.99
Features: 2.0 Channel, 45W Peak Power, USB Cable.
Best for Competitive Gaming: Razer Nommo
With a focus on speed and performance, the Razer Nommo gives competitive gamers an edge.
Features like directional audio cues and quick transmission via 3D woven glass fiber cables optimize input lag and positional accuracy. The balanced mids and highs ensure clear sound even in chaotic matches.
Price: $99.99
Features: 2.0 setup, 3” Woven Glass Fiber Drivers, Directional Audio Cues.
Best Soundbar: Razer Leviathan
The Leviathan packs impressive 5.1 surround sound into a compact, under-monitor soundbar form factor.
With multiple optimized drivers and Dolby technology, immersive 360° audio comes through in vivid detail for a cinematic experience. Bluetooth connectivity adds convenience.
Price: $199.99
Features: 5.1 Surround Soundbar, Bluetooth, Multiple Optimized Drivers.
Best Surround Sound: Logitech Z906
With true 5.1 Dolby and DTS surround sound powered by a 505W system, the Logitech Z906 immerses you in the game environment.
The THX-certified speaker system delivers an incredibly detailed, room-filling audio experience through five satellites and a powerful subwoofer.
Price: $299.99
Features: 5.1 Surround Speakers + Sub, 505W System, DTS/Dolby Support
Best Wireless: Creative Pebble V3
Untether your audio experience with Creative’s latest Pebble V3 model. Offering Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, you can wirelessly stream from any Bluetooth-compatible device.
Simple setup, compact design, and great 2.1 channel sound powered by a 46W down-firing subwoofer.
Price: $49.99
Features: 2.1 Channel Audio, Bluetooth 5.3 Connectivity, 46W Down-Firing Sub.
Best with Subwoofer: Klipsch ProMedia 2.1
This THX certified 2.1 speaker system really pounds the bass with its powerful 6.5-inch side-firing subwoofer.
Dual infront satellite speakers provide mids and highs with impressive clarity. The 200W peak power delivers booming cinematic audio for under $150. A great boost for games and movies.
Price: $129
Features: 2.1 system, side-firing sub, Dual satellite speakers.
Best Looking: Audioengine A2+
With stylish bamboo accents and a space-saving minimalist design, the Audioengine 2+ speakers add aesthetics to any desktop.
But they also pack great sound in a small package with crystal clear audio powered by a built-in amp. An ideal blend of looks and performance.
Price: $269
Features: 2.0 Speaker system, Built-in amp, Beautiful design.
Best Desktop Speakers: Mackie CR3
Designed specifically for computer use, the Mackie CR3 is a compact yet powerful set of 3” desktop speakers.
The tuned acoustic enclosure provides surprising low-end extension despite the small footprint. Positioned horizontally or vertically based on your setup. An ideal choice for those short on space.
Price: $119.99
Features: Compact 3” drivers, Acoustic tuning, Desktop design.
Best Splurge: Bang & Olufsen Beolit 20
If you seek the absolute best in audio quality with premium design, the Beolit 20 delivers. This all-in-one cylindrical powerhouse packs impressive 360° sound.
The woofer, midrange drivers, and tweeters combined with Dolby Atmos 3D sound make this a dream listening experience.
Price: $1,750
Features: 360° sound system, Dolby Atmos 3D audio, premium design.
Also Read This Post : Why Does My Speaker Sound Muffled
Final Thoughts
Whether trying to save money or go all-out, these handpicked gaming pc speaker options have you covered.
Make sure to consider sound quality, power, drivers, connectivity, form factor, brands, and budget when choosing the right audio upgrade for your needs.
With clearer explosions, better directional abilities, and more immersion – you’ll gain an audio advantage alongside a much more enjoyable overall gaming experience.
Time to ditch those lackluster built-in speakers and unleash great gaming sound.
