Upgrade your online listening experience: Best laptop speakers of 2024

You might be surprised to hear that this isn't the best-sounding speaker you'll find on this list. The reason it's in our top spot is this: the CREATIVE Stage Air 2 is probably the most affordable way to get the best of all worlds when it comes to laptop audio. This speaker has a satisfying blend of features that make it more than just a very flexible little 20w soundbar. For starters, this has an integrated good-sized subwoofer - so you won't need to lug around a separate sub for more than half-decent bass. Secondly, the frequency range is wider than most small all-in-one speakers, so you'll enjoy well-rounded audio - the driver is even custom-tuned as well.

The addition of USB-C and Bluetooth means you have some excellent connection options too. And yes, if your laptop had Bluetooth you'll be all set for wireless listening. But what use is that if you still need to plug the Stage Air 2 into the wall? Well, you don't. The higher power rating of the USB-C connection will provide more than the usual USB can, which means this doesn't need a power brick or wall plug. But, the trick up its sleeve is that it has a rechargeable battery for 6-hours of playback. Plus you can connect any other Bluetooth device to it. Superior audio has become just as portable and flexible as the laptop itself.

Budget is as budget does, and for sub-£20 laptop speakers, these fit that description perfectly. The Amazon Basics Computer Speakers are just the sort of thing to get if your ageing laptop has the sound quality of a potato. But what do you get for this price that's actually worth having?

Well, you get a pair of reasonably solid speakers with an unobtrusive design that simply plugs in and works. They're powered by USB, but the audio doesn't take that route. You'll need to connect your laptop audio via the 3.5mm aux jack. But this is a small price to pay for the added flexibility of being able to power them on your laptop but plug in a different device. Control is simple, and thankfully Amazon has avoided using those terrible cheap rubberised buttons you'll find on budget speakers – opting instead for a classic in-line volume control. If you want a speaker to throw into your bag for better sound on a budget – this is it.

In contrast to the JBL 104, these Eris E3.5 speakers are classed as studio monitors - and they live up to that claim. The clarity and separation they deliver are ideal for audio creatives. Importantly, especially for busy studio work, the commonly used controls are also easily reached on the front panel. They're also an excellent, practical size for sitting next to a laptop without looking like they're swamping your desktop.

The rear panel has acoustic tuning via high and low-frequency control knobs, a relatively rare feature – certainly at this price point. The addition of a headphone jack and an auxiliary input makes these speakers flexible to use for both daily production work and casual listening. The design is suitably industrial yet refined, so they'll give your setup that professional edge.

The Edifier R1280DB is a powerful yet affordable choice for upgrading your laptop's sound. With its four-inch bass driver and 13mm silk dome tweeter, this speaker delivers clear highs and deep lows, making it suitable for a variety of uses. The R1280DB also boasts Bluetooth connectivity and optical and RCA inputs, offering flexibility whether you're watching films, editing videos, or listening to music. Its elegant wood grain finish adds a touch of style to any setup, blending in seamlessly with most spaces while enhancing your laptop's audio performance.

This was tried and tested by Harvey Isitt, who has this to say about his experience: "As someone who frequently edits video content, I found the Edifier R1280DB a reliable companion for boosting my laptop audio. Whether editing dialogue or adding background music, the speakers provided the clarity and depth needed to bring out the finer details. When watching films, I was equally impressed by the rich bass and crisp highs, making for an immersive experience without distortion, even at high volumes."

"Its multiple connectivity options were a huge plus for me, allowing seamless transitions between my laptop and turntable. I also appreciated the user-friendly EQ controls on the side, which made it easy to tweak the sound for different types of content. Overall, the R1280DB is a well-rounded speaker that elevates laptop audio, offering solid performance without overspending."

You can find his full review here.

High-end is high-end, regardless of the gaming credentials at work here. Razer continues to cement itself as a leader in premium gear for gamers, but this Nommo Pro is a worthy addition to any laptop. And it had better be - this doesn't come cheap. But it is a brilliant choice for anyone with a laptop with a Herculean spec to match. If your laptop is your main source of entertainment, the Nommo Pro V2 is packing the sort of features you'd find in full 5.1 surround PC speakers. That said if the Nommo Pro V2 is stretching your budget to breaking point and beyond, and you don't care about portability, we have other PC speaker recommendations that will see you right.

But, back to Razer, along with their collaboration with THX, the speakers include several gaming and spatial sound profiles as well as EQ settings to tune your speakers to whatever space or game you want. Two little additions that really set this off on your desk are the illuminated Razer Chroma LED lighting. It will, naturally, require mains power - but if you do need to pack this up to take away with your laptop it's just about neat enough. This is laptop audio tech at its best.

For laptop users seeking premium audio in a compact design, the Audioengine A2+ speakers deserve your consideration. Made from an 18mm MDF frame, these powered speakers feature 3/4-inch silk dome tweeters and 2.75-inch Kevlar woofers. Despite their small size, they offer clean, crisp audio – ideal for music, movies, and casual gaming. The built-in DAC ensures smooth audio playback via USB, while Bluetooth connectivity allows for seamless streaming from your phone.

Though their bass may not satisfy those looking for especially deep lows, the option to add Audioengine's S8 subwoofer will enhance the overall sound. The A2+ speakers' minimalist aesthetic is complemented by optional silicone rubber stands, which improve sound direction and reduce vibration. Perfect for desktop or laptop setups, these speakers are an excellent choice for those wanting high-quality audio in a small, stylish package.

Looking at some of the best JBL speakers available now, it's easy to see why the company has caught the interest of many looking for small but high-tech audio products. The JBL 1 Series 104 Compact Desktop Speakers are a fantastic example of compact speakers designed for music fans. At first glance, despite the understated design, these are marketed as studio reference monitor speakers for audio creators. However, users report that while they might not be truly up to professional monitor standards, they have actually made a very well-rounded and accurate pair of active speakers for quality music listening.

At nearly 10 inches high, these 104 speakers have an innovative coaxial driver design and a Class D amplifier that maximises the detail and accuracy of sound. Three external inputs and front-facing source and volume controls make these speakers a pleasure to use - plus they’re compact enough to take them anywhere with ease. Again, built-in Bluetooth makes them a flexible choice for great-sounding music. They're not USB, though, so you'll be using Bluetooth, 3.5mm or RCA inputs - but that's a good thing here, as mains power is necessary to drive the considerably beefy amplifier inside.

If you've been around computers for any length of time, you'll know that Creative Labs have a high reputation for audio products. With the aptly named Pebble X Plus speakers, Creative's audio boffins have excelled themselves. Despite their compact size and deceptively simple looks, they're weighty and sound better than many larger speakers. But what does the X Plus version deliver that previous models didn't? Well, aside from upgraded and re-engineered drivers there's a host of audio enhancements like more powerful playback, a compact subwoofer, with RGB lighting effects to finish off the look nicely.

There's still a 45-degree angle to the custom-tuned far-field drivers - which aim the audio perfectly for working on a laptop. Controls are simple and accessible, wiring is minimised too. They're slightly larger than previous Pebble speakers, but they'll still fit into the smallest of workspaces - and that increase in size is down to larger 2.75" drivers. The included subwoofer is small enough not to crowd a compact set-up but powerful enough to compensate for the compact speaker drivers. Powered by USB, there's easy access to mic and headphone inputs as well. With these small but heavyweight speakers, Creative has given your laptop a serious boost.

Another entry from Razer, this one in the more budget-friendly price range. The Leviathan soundbar is a great addition to any set-up, even if gaming isn't your chosen hobby. With two full-range drivers and included passive radiators to aid in bass extension, you are guaranteed a full sound experience from this compact soundbar.

The extra features of this make it really stand out when compared to others on the market. With Razer's fantastic Chroma RGB included, millions of colour options are at your fingertips. In addition to that, the audio configuration available in the Synapse app means you can have your set-up tuned however you want it.

While it may be one of the more budget options on this list, that doesn't make it cheap. You are definitely paying a premium for better gaming sound, but if that (and the RGB) aren't your thing, it might do you good to look at the other options on our list. But if you're someone who appreciates being able to customise the design of their desk, then this is the one for you.