True immersion: The best PC speakers of 2024

One of the reasons we love the Logitech Z313 2.1 Multimedia Speaker System is that it’s small enough to fit around the average PC system but large enough to make a decent impact. It may not be the most powerful or have the best surround sound, but for the price, it’s a fantastic all-rounder.
Logitech has a well-established reputation as a market leader for PC sound systems, and the z313 delivers its 2.1 audio via two compact satellite speakers and a powerful subwoofer for deep bass.

As for power, the 25W output is going to be loud enough for all but serious home cinema or surround sound enthusiasts. But, for those of us who want decent bass and solid performance without taking up too much space, the Logitech Z313 is perfect for movies, games, and casual use. 
Another great design feature that we really appreciate is the palm-sized Control Pod. It offers simple and accessible controls for power, volume plus a headphone jack.

We do wish, though, that this had more connectivity options, particularly USB as it relies on a standard 3.5mm audio jack for connection to the PC. However, if you're looking for a cost-effective and easy-to-set-up speaker system for general use, the Logitech Z313 is a fantastic choice.

Pun intended we think that the Trust Gaming GXT 611 Wezz speakers are a trustworthy budget addition to any PC system. While it’s rare to find a lot of bass and higher volume levels in a budget speaker, this one is capable of outputting 12W of power – enough for daily use with music, videos and more. 

Although we’re not usually fans of RGB lighting, the GXT 611 avoids the cheap and nasty lighting effect we’ve seen on many budget speakers, instead diffusing them behind the speaker grills. They’ll react to music, too, if you want to jazz things up. We also appreciate the easy and compact setup here. No external power is needed – just plug these into your PC's USB socket and you’re good to go.  

Despite being compact, these are capable of a respectable frequency range too, for a good balance of highs and lows. Predictably for smaller and more lightweight speakers, the downside here is the bass response. If you want to shake the room (or even just the desktop) you should look elsewhere. But, for us, there’s no better budget PC speaker option.

If you’re looking for a PC sound system that really makes an impact – both in the way it looks and the way it sounds – we think the LOGITECH Z906 5.1 is the answer. Anyone who uses their PC for all of their entertainment, from games to movies and more, will love the true surround sound experience on offer here. We had to double-take the stated output power of the system, which can deliver 500 watts or raw power. 

The physical speaker setup here is significant. It includes five satellite speakers (four for surround, one centre) and a powerful subwoofer. This speaker system provides cinema-quality audio, it even carries THX certification for those movies and shows that support it. We also love the range of controls and inputs here. It’s clearly aimed at those who may want to integrate this with more than just their PC. Input options include optical, coaxial, and analogue. But, for us, the other star of the show is the control console and remote control. Together these really deliver a premium hi-fi-like user experience. 

All that said, the entire Z906 setup is sizable – especially if you want to have more choice over speaker placement to get the best surround effect. But, if you have the room, this is a superior surround sound system for any PC.

We think that SteelSeries has nailed the premium speaker look with its Arena 7 2.1 PC speaker system. Aside from the top-quality build and sleek design, it has also implemented a customisable and understated RGB lighting option into the back and base of each of the desktop speakers. That can deliver a more ambient lighting effect for those who want it. 

But, it’s the bass performance here that takes the audio crown. Its weighty subwoofer adds serious resonance to the 80-watt output. We do think that the price point reflects the quality on offer here. Yes, you can get systems with more speakers for similar money – but would they sound as good or share the Arena 7s looks and built quality? Perhaps not. Especially considering that these come with Dolby Atmos support for superior surround sound with movies and games.

We also love the inclusion of plenty of connectivity options – including Bluetooth, USB, and an auxiliary input. Sonar Audio software is also available for even more fine control and tweaks. We do wish that these came with a more accessible independent control unit for adjusting bass and treble levels without using software, but other than that we think these are ideal for anyone who enjoys bass-heavy music and gaming.

Setting out to prove that compact doesn’t have to mean weak sound, the CREATIVE Pebble Pro 2.0 USB-C Computer Speakers are a serious step up from the previous non-Pro version. This new model has features that are ideal for PC users – such as RGB lighting, enhanced bass response and headset and mic ports.

We love that the Pebble Pro can do all of this, and generate a much larger sound than their size suggests, all from a USB power input. That means even less cable clutter and more free desktop space. The 10 W of output is typical for compact speakers, but CREATIVE has really put its long-standing audio know-how to work here to make the Pebble Pro punch well above its weight. Their built-in passive radiators help enhance bass performance, thanks to CREATIVE’s proprietary BassFlex technology. That said, those who prefer deeper bass for long music listening sessions will always find better performance from larger speakers with included subwoofers.

Aside from the USB-C connectivity, we think that the Pebble Pro sets itself apart from many compact speakers with the addition of Bluetooth 5.3 support for easy, quality wireless listening. But, perhaps best of all is the innovative minimalist pebble-like design. They’ll look great sat next to any modern space-conscious PC setup.

Razer might be a firm favourite among PC gamers, but this Razer Leviathan V2 X 2.0 PC Gaming Soundbar comes with a sizable subwoofer for the best of both worlds. We’re huge fans of soundbars for the simple reason that they’re low-profile, slotting in below monitors instead of taking up room to the side. Yes, the sub will deliver those resonant bass tones you’re after. But, at its heart, this is a compact but powerful soundbar containing two full-range drivers capable of 20 W of power. It’s also THX certified for getting the best spatial audio experience from games and movies.

Much like other soundbar and sub combos, the Leviathan V2 is easy to set up and use. We particularly like the logical and accessible controls on the top – a refreshing change to most others that hide them at the side or back. Bluetooth is also present, for even more flexibility when connecting to phones or tablets. Razer’s Audio app will let you switch between up to eight connected devices too. There are limited physical input options, though, so if you’re looking for more than just USB and Bluetooth you should look elsewhere.

Razer is also renowned for its RGB lighting systems and control software. This one incorporated Razer Chroma, so if you’re already a Razor user you’ll be able to coordinate and customise the 18 built-in lighting schemes. All in all, we think the Razer Leviathan is an excellent PC soundbar option for users who want a refined-looking yet powerful audio solution without the clutter.

Not every PC user needs a monster of a sound system, they just need a reliable pair of stereo speakers that they can connect to using Bluetooth. For us, the CREATIVE T60 2.0 Compact Hi-Fi Desktop Speakers are perfectly convenient for casual listening over Bluetooth – whether that’s from your phone or tablet, or even your PC if you’re lacking a free USB port or input jack.

CREATIVE has once again delivered a stylish little package here – sturdy, attractive and functional. We’re surprised by the power on offer here, too. Sporting 30 W of output through 2.75-inch drivers, you can expect exceptionally clear audio. But the audio features don’t stop there. There’s a digital-to-analogue converter inside which makes them ideal for connecting to a Bluetooth turntable for smoother sound, and Sound Blaster tech that enhances dialogue and surround sound sources to good effect. Easily found front-facing controls plus mic and headset support are great for usability, too.

However, as with all smaller speakers, we do think that the lack of deep bass support might be a drawback for some. But, this isn’t to knock the performance here. For their size, these deliver more than expected. Overall, the CREATIVE T60 offers a great balance of convenience, performance, and style for those seeking a compact desktop audio solution.

When we reviewed the Edifier QR65 speakers, we found that they’re a top choice for serious music listeners. With 70 W of power and 4-inch drivers, these speakers are capable of a wide frequency range that can really bring your music to life. Hi-Res certified, they’ll do justice to your lossless format music as well as look great on the desktop. We do wish they had USB connectivity though, aside from the 3.5mm input jack, but we’ll let that slide considering that these are capable of so much more than the standard PC speaker set.

Featuring one active and one passive speaker, the QR65s boast a striking design with unique light effects. We also found that they deliver rich audio suitable for both music and video with impressive sound projection. You even get customizable EQ settings via the EDIFIER ConneX app.

Despite its excellent performance, the QR65's connecting cable between the active and passive speakers is about as long as the average desk, limiting setup flexibility for wider placement on very large desktops. However, we think the price tag is fully justified due to their modern aesthetic, sold build and practical features – including multiple connectivity options. If you’re serious about music on your PC, these Edifiers are for you.

On the opposite end of the spectrum of many of the speakers listed here, we have the humble Amazon Basics USB-powered PC speakers, perfect for those just starting their setup in need of sound. Ideal for your home office thanks to their small design, these small speakers can sit practically anywhere, and their USB power is fantastic.

Though the sound is solid, it isn't exceptional: it's not the resonating, all-encompassing surround sound you'll find on something larger, which is to be expected from its ultra-low price, but it still might be disappointing for those who truly love their sound quality.

You'll find, however, that the audio from the Amazon Basics, despite lacking any sort of frills or serious bass, is impressive for its size.

Some of the best budget speakers on the market, the Amazon Basics USB-powered PC speakers are a must-have for those looking for solid sound at an affordable price.

audio professionals who need precise sound for mixing music and more. This pair of 25-watt, 4.5-inch monitors offers balance and precision and an unbiased audio profile – crucial for DJs creating their ultimate dance tracks.

Easily connect the PreSonus Eris speakers to your DJ PC setup via AUX-in (or, for other equipment, you have, RCA or standard speaker terminal cable options). We love the sturdy build quality here, as they’re built to reliably deliver a rich soundstage – perfect for nailing that essential bass drop. However, at 163 x 241 x 180 mm and weighing 5.9 kg, the Eris 4.5BT speakers are slightly larger and heavier than standard PC speakers, so factor this in before you buy.

We love the addition of Bluetooth connectivity too, making them a bit more flexible for mixing with apps on mobile devices and the like. Altogether, we find the PreSonus Eris 4.5BT Gen 2 speakers to be a great choice for DJs and audio professionals looking to elevate their PC audio to new heights.