Speakers

Good speakers make movies, games, and music much more enjoyable than the built-in speakers of a monitor or laptop. Here you will find compact 2.0 computer speakers, 2.1 systems with a separate subwoofer, 5.1 surround systems, soundbars, and wireless models with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

How to choose

• The system. 2.0 means two speakers, suitable for a desk and music. 2.1 adds a subwoofer for a fuller bass in movies and games. 5.1 provides true surround sound but requires space for five speakers around you.
• The connection. The 3.5 mm jack is the most common for computers. The optical input is for TVs and consoles. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi allow you to play music directly from your phone.
• The power. A modest power is sufficient for a desk and a small room. A large room and movies with many effects require a more powerful system with a subwoofer. Compare the actual power, not the peak.
• The material. Wooden enclosures usually sound more natural and resonate less than plastic ones.
• The control. A remote control or a cable control on the desk is convenient if the speakers are far from your hand.
• The smart features. Speakers with Wi-Fi can play music from streaming services, be controlled by a voice assistant, and connect in a multi-room system across several rooms.

What to watch out for

• Computer speakers are powered by an outlet or USB – USB models are quieter but convenient for laptops.
• The subwoofer should ideally be placed on the floor, close to a wall, for a fuller bass.
• For a TV, the soundbar takes up less space than a 5.1 system and connects with a single cable.
• For Bluetooth speakers, check if they also have a wired input – convenient if one day your phone doesn't have Bluetooth.
• If you will use them outdoors, choose models with water and dust protection.

Connection and placement

Computer speakers connect to the green audio output of the computer or to the output of the sound card. For a 5.1 system, three audio outputs or a digital optical input are needed. Place the speakers at ear level and at equal distance from you – this way the sound is the most balanced. Do not place them tightly against a wall or in a corner if the bass sounds muddy. If you often listen in the evening or in a shared room, it’s good to also have headphones.