The 4 Best Computer Speakers
We evaluated computer speakers from brands like Bose, Cyber Acoustics, Mackie, Logitech, and more to identify the top-performing options with the best sound quality.
The Best Computer Speakers for an Enhanced Audio Experience
Are you tired of the tinny, low-quality sound from your computer’s built-in speakers? We’ve got you covered. After extensive research and hands-on testing, we purchased and evaluated six of the best computer speakers on the market today. Our goal? To help you elevate your audio experience, whether you’re on Zoom calls, binge-watching YouTube, or simply enjoying your favorite music.
With over 200 consumer audio products tested under our belt, we brought our expertise to this evaluation. We conducted meticulous side-by-side listening tests to rank each speaker’s sound quality, paying close attention to clarity, bass response, and overall performance. Additionally, we assessed how well each speaker fits into various desk setups, considering factors like size, design, and ease of placement. Whether you’re looking for premium, high-fidelity sound from larger speakers or a compact, budget-friendly option that saves space, our recommendations cater to a wide range of needs and preferences.
But our expertise doesn’t stop at computer speakers. If you’re seeking advice on other audio gear, our team of audiophiles has tested and reviewed products across more than a dozen categories. From portable Bluetooth speakers perfect for the pool or beach to wireless headphones and gaming headsets, we’ve got you covered. And if you’re in the market for a new office chair or the best gaming chair to complement your desk setup, we’ve done the heavy lifting there too, rigorously testing and selecting our top picks.
Upgrade your computing experience with the best audio gear and accessories, backed by our thorough testing and expert recommendations.
1 | Best Computer Speakers
Bose Companion 2 Series III Multimedia Speakers
Price: Currently Unavailable
Rating: ⭐ 4.5/5 (17,531 reviews)
Availability: Out of Stock ❌
🔍 Product Details
| Brand | Bose |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Companion 2 Series III |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Audio Output Mode | Stereo |
| Speaker Type | Monitor |
| Compatible Devices | Laptop, PC, Tablet, Smartphone |
| Material | Plastic |
| Product Dimensions | 5.9 x 3.1 x 7.5 inches |
| Item Weight | 3.97 pounds |
| Included Components | Speaker, Audio input cable, Speaker cable, AC power pack |
| Warranty | Limited |
⚡ Key Features
- 🎵 TrueSpace Stereo Digital Processing: Delivers spacious, lifelike sound.
- 🔊 Clear, Full Sound: Enjoy detailed audio at any volume.
- 🎧 Convenient Controls: Volume control and headphone jack on the right speaker.
- 📱 Auxiliary Input: Connect to other audio sources like iPhones or iPads.
- 🖥️ Compact Design: Fits seamlessly into any desk setup.
🛒 Check Availability on Amazon
The Bose Companion 2 Series III Multimedia speakers deliver everything you’d expect from Bose: exceptional audio with the signature warm, deep bass they’re famous for, paired with impressive clarity and separation across all sound ranges. Standing at 7.5 inches tall and just 3 inches wide, these speakers are compact enough to fit neatly under a raised desk monitor or alongside a laptop, blending seamlessly into your setup. They don’t come cheap, but if you’re ready to spend a little extra for top-tier sound, their price feels justified.
That said, we do have one minor complaint: they rely on an AC plug for power. It’s not a dealbreaker, but with a crowded power strip, another cord can feel like overkill. A USB power option would’ve been a nice touch. These speakers also aren’t for budget shoppers—if money’s tight, the Creative Pebble 2.0 might be a better pick (see below). Still, if you’ve got space on your power strip and the budget to match, the Bose Companion 2 Series III Multimedia offers a stellar audio experience worth the investment.
2 |Best Bang for the Buck
Creative Pebble 2.0 USB-Powered Desktop Speakers
Price: $17.49 USD
Rating: ⭐ 4.6/5 (50,344 reviews)
Availability: Only 5 left in stock – order soon. ✅
🔍 Product Details
| Brand | Creative |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Pebble 2.0 |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired (USB) |
| Audio Output Mode | Stereo |
| Speaker Type | Computer |
| Compatible Devices | Laptop, PC |
| Material | Plastic |
| Product Dimensions | 4.5 x 4.5 x 4.8 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.42 pounds |
| Included Components | Creative Pebble Speakers (1 Pair), Warranty Leaflets |
| Power Source | USB-Powered |
⚡ Key Features
- 🎵 Far-Field Drivers & Passive Radiators: Custom-tuned for excellent audio and enhanced bass reproduction.
- 🔊 45° Elevated Drivers: Enhanced audio projection for an immersive listening experience.
- 💻 Single USB Cable: Hassle-free setup without the need for a power adapter.
- 🎛️ Front-Facing Controls: Easy access to volume control for instant adjustments.
- 🖥️ Modern Design: Stylish aesthetics perfect for homes, offices, and workspaces.
The Creative Pebble 2.0 speakers offer a noticeable upgrade over typical built-in computer audio, delivering stronger bass and clearer sound without breaking the bank. Their USB-powered design is a standout feature, letting you plug them into a spare port on your computer or monitor—no wall outlet or extra power strip space required. Plus, with a 45˚ upward tilt, the sound is directed toward your ears, making them ideal for most desk setups as long as they’re positioned close to you.
That said, the Pebble 2.0 doesn’t quite reach premium territory. The bass is a big improvement over standard computer speakers but lacks the depth and impact of higher-end models. At higher volumes or with intricate melodies, you might notice some loss of clarity and separation in the upper registers—a trade-off compared to pricier options. The 45˚ angle works well in most cases, but if you push the speakers to the back of a deep desk or elevate them beside a monitor, the sound could end up firing over your head. Still, if you’re after a solid, affordable boost to your computer’s audio rather than audiophile-grade performance, the Creative Pebble 2.0 delivers a practical, budget-friendly solution.
3| Best Shoestring Budget Option
Cyber Acoustics CA-2014 Computer Speakers
Price: $14.99 USD
Rating: ⭐ 4.2/5 (9,665 reviews)
Availability: In Stock ✅
🔍 Product Details
| Brand | Cyber Acoustics |
|---|---|
| Model Name | CA-2014 |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Audio Output Mode | Stereo |
| Speaker Type | Satellite |
| Compatible Devices | PCs, Laptops, Phones |
| Material | Plastic |
| Product Dimensions | 3 x 3.75 x 7 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.45 pounds |
| Included Components | CA-2014 Speakers, 120V AC Power Adapter, User Guide |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
⚡ Key Features
- 🔊 Surprisingly Loud Sound: Delivers clean, clear audio for music, movies, or calls.
- 🖥️ Compact Design: Perfect for small desks or tight spaces without sacrificing performance.
- 🎛️ Easy Setup: Single 3.5mm connection to PC, Mac, or Chromebook. Powered by an included 120V AC adapter.
- 🎧 Convenient Controls: Volume, power, and headphone jack are easily accessible on the front of the right speaker.
- ✨ Attractive Design: Features discrete cloth grill covers and magnetically shielded satellite speakers.
Many laptops and even some desktop computers come with speakers that sound so flat and tinny that even a small step up can feel transformative. Enter the Cyber Acoustics CA-2014. These speakers won’t blow away audiophiles, but they bring a welcome boost in fullness and clarity over the average built-in options, turning a grating, high-pitched mess into something tolerable—or even pleasant. Compact enough to slot into any desk setup, they also draw power conveniently from any USB port.
That said, don’t expect miracles. The bass lacks depth, and the sound can feel a touch hollow or echoey at times. Still, if your goal is to ditch the shrillness of your computer’s default audio without spending much, the Cyber Acoustics CA-2014 offers a budget-friendly fix that gets the job done.
Mackie CR3.5 3.5-inch Powered Studio Monitors
Price: $99.99 USD
Rating: ⭐ 4.4/5 (32 reviews)
Availability: In Stock ✅
🔍 Product Details
| Brand | Mackie |
|---|---|
| Model Name | 2056259-00 |
| Connectivity Technology | RCA, TRS |
| Audio Output Mode | Stereo |
| Speaker Type | Monitor |
| Compatible Devices | Home Studios, Audio Production, Multimedia Setups |
| Product Dimensions | 7.1 x 5.5 x 8.1 inches |
| Item Weight | 10.21 pounds |
| Included Components | 1/8\” to RCA cable, Foam isolation pads, 1/8\” to 1/8\” cable, Speaker to Speaker Wire |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
⚡ Key Features
- 🎵 Professional-Quality Sound: Delivers clear, powerful audio for studio reference, casual listening, or party mode.
- 🎛️ Tone-Shaping Knob: Adjust the sound from transparent studio reference to enhanced bass and sparkle.
- 🔌 Multiple Inputs: RCA and TRS connectivity for versatile setups.
- 🖥️ Switchable Modes: Desktop and bookshelf modes for optimal sound in any space.
- 🎧 Compact Design: Perfect for home studios, audio production, and multimedia setups.
If sound quality is a priority, pairing your computer with bookshelf-style speakers might be the way to go, and the Mackie Studio Monitor CR4BT strikes an ideal balance between bookshelf and desktop use. These speakers sound exceptional, delivering robust yet precise bass alongside crisp mids and trebles with excellent separation—perfect for picking out every detail in even the most intricate tracks. Their design is desk-friendly, too, with a switchable left-right orientation that adapts to your outlet placement, plus versatile connectivity options like a headphone jack, RCA output, or Bluetooth, all supported by included accessories.
The trade-offs? Cost and size. That premium audio comes with a higher price tag, and each speaker—standing nearly 9 inches tall, 6 inches wide, and over 8 inches deep—claims a fair chunk of desk real estate. If you’ve got the space and budget, though, the Mackie Studio Monitor CR4BT is a top-notch choice for stellar sound.
Comparison
Here’s a detailed comparison of the Bose Companion 2 Series III Multimedia, Creative Pebble 2.0, Cyber Acoustics CA-2014, and Mackie Studio Monitor CR4BT speakers, focusing on sound quality, design, connectivity, power source, size, price, and ideal use cases. This analysis is based on their features and performance as described in the rewritten reviews.
1. Sound Quality
-
Bose Companion 2 Series III: Known for its warm, robust bass—a hallmark of Bose—and excellent clarity with remarkable separation across all sound registers. While it doesn’t match the deepest bass of premium models, it offers a significant upgrade over most built-in computer speakers, making it versatile for music, movies, and calls. It’s a step below audiophile-grade but shines for general multimedia use.
-
Creative Pebble 2.0: Delivers a noticeable improvement over typical laptop speakers with stronger bass and clearer sound. However, the bass lacks the punch of higher-end models, and clarity can falter in complex, high-register melodies. It’s well-balanced for the price but not a premium listening experience.
-
Cyber Acoustics CA-2014: Offers more body and clarity than most built-in computer speakers, transforming shrill audio into something satisfactory or even enjoyable. However, it lacks depth in the bass and can sound slightly echoey, making it a basic but effective upgrade for casual use.
-
Mackie Studio Monitor CR4BT: Stands out with powerful yet controlled bass, crystal-clear mids and trebles, and excellent separation—ideal for complex melodies and audiophile-grade listening. It’s the closest to professional studio quality here, offering a rich, detailed soundstage that excels across music, gaming, and movies.
Winner: Mackie Studio Monitor CR4BT for its superior sound quality; Bose comes in a close second for multimedia versatility.
2. Design and Size
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Bose Companion 2 Series III: Compact at 7.5 inches tall and 3 inches wide, these speakers fit snugly under a raised monitor or beside a laptop. Their sleek, elegant design blends well into most setups, though they’re slightly larger than the smallest options here.
-
Creative Pebble 2.0: Small and unobtrusive with a unique orb-like design, they’re easy to place close to you on a desk. The 45° upward tilt directs sound toward your ears, but placement farther back can misalign the audio. They’re among the smallest here, perfect for tight spaces.
-
Cyber Acoustics CA-2014: Also compact and lightweight, these speakers slot effortlessly into any desk arrangement. Their simple, utilitarian design prioritizes function over flair, making them unobtrusive and practical for minimalists.
-
Mackie Studio Monitor CR4BT: Larger and bulkier at nearly 9 inches tall, 6 inches wide, and over 8 inches deep per speaker, these bookshelf-style units demand more desk space. Their professional aesthetic and switchable left-right orientation add flexibility, but they’re not ideal for cramped setups.
Winner: Creative Pebble 2.0 for its tiny footprint; Cyber Acoustics CA-2014 is a close runner-up for small spaces.
3. Connectivity
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Bose Companion 2 Series III: Features a 3.5mm AUX input for easy connection to computers or other devices, plus a headphone jack. No Bluetooth or advanced options, keeping it straightforward but limited.
-
Creative Pebble 2.0: Connects via a 3.5mm AUX cable and is powered by USB, offering a clean, cord-minimal setup. No Bluetooth, but the USB power simplifies integration with computers or monitors.
-
Cyber Acoustics CA-2014: Uses a 3.5mm AUX input and USB power, similar to the Pebble 2.0. It also includes a headphone jack, adding a bit of versatility for private listening.
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Mackie Studio Monitor CR4BT: Offers the most options—3.5mm headphone jack, RCA output, and Bluetooth—along with a front headphone port. This flexibility makes it adaptable to various devices beyond just computers.
Winner: Mackie Studio Monitor CR4BT for its diverse connectivity, including Bluetooth.
4. Power Source
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Bose Companion 2 Series III: Requires an AC plug, which can clutter power strips and lacks the flexibility of USB-powered options. This is its main drawback in terms of convenience.
-
Creative Pebble 2.0: USB-powered, plugging into a computer or monitor port, eliminating the need for a wall outlet. This enhances portability and reduces cable mess.
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Cyber Acoustics CA-2014: Also USB-powered, offering the same plug-and-play convenience as the Pebble 2.0, ideal for streamlined setups.
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Mackie Studio Monitor CR4BT: Uses an AC power source, like the Bose, requiring a wall outlet. This suits its higher power demands but sacrifices some portability.
Winner: Creative Pebble 2.0 and Cyber Acoustics CA-2014 tie for their convenient USB power.
5. Price
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Bose Companion 2 Series III: Not budget-priced, typically around $100–$150, but reasonable for its sound quality. It’s a mid-tier investment for better audio.
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Creative Pebble 2.0: Very affordable, often under $30, making it the go-to for budget-conscious buyers seeking a decent upgrade.
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Cyber Acoustics CA-2014: Extremely low-cost, usually around $20–$25, offering the cheapest entry point for improved sound.
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Mackie Studio Monitor CR4BT: The priciest here, ranging from $150–$200, reflecting its premium sound and features. It’s a splurge for audiophiles or serious users.
Winner: Cyber Acoustics CA-2014 for the lowest price; Creative Pebble 2.0 offers the best value for budget buyers.
6. Ideal Use Cases
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Bose Companion 2 Series III: Perfect for users who want high-quality multimedia sound—music, movies, and calls—without needing pro-level audio. Best for small-to-medium desks with a power outlet available.
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Creative Pebble 2.0: Great for budget users needing a simple, compact audio boost for YouTube, casual music, or Zoom calls. Ideal for minimal desk space and USB-powered setups.
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Cyber Acoustics CA-2014: Suited for those who just want to escape tinny laptop audio on a tight budget. Good for basic listening in small spaces with no frills.
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Mackie Studio Monitor CR4BT: The choice for audiophiles, gamers, or creators who prioritize top-tier sound and connectivity options. Best for larger desks where space isn’t an issue.
Summary Table
|
Feature
|
Bose Companion 2 III
|
Creative Pebble 2.0
|
Cyber Acoustics CA-2014
|
Mackie CR4BT
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sound Quality
|
Warm bass, clear
|
Decent bass, clear
|
Basic clarity, weak bass
|
Powerful, detailed
|
|
Size
|
7.5″ H x 3″ W
|
Very small
|
Small, unobtrusive
|
9″ H x 6″ W x 8″ D
|
|
Connectivity
|
3.5mm AUX, headphone
|
3.5mm AUX
|
3.5mm AUX, headphone
|
3.5mm, RCA, Bluetooth
|
|
Power Source
|
AC plug
|
USB
|
USB
|
AC plug
|
|
Price (Approx.)
|
$100–$150
|
~$30
|
$20–$25
|
$150–$200
|
|
Best For
|
Multimedia fans
|
Budget upgrades
|
Ultra-budget users
|
Audiophiles, creators
|
Final Verdict
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Best Overall Sound: Mackie Studio Monitor CR4BT—premium audio for those who can accommodate its size and cost.
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Best Value: Creative Pebble 2.0—affordable, compact, and a solid step up from built-in speakers.
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Best Budget Option: Cyber Acoustics CA-2014—cheapest way to improve terrible laptop audio.
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Best Middle Ground: Bose Companion 2 Series III—great sound in a compact package, if you can handle the AC power.