Sitting back and listening to music from your computer or laptop can be one of the most enjoyable ways to relax, but the sound quality of your favorite song can only be as good as the speaker system it is being played through. 2.1 speakers consist of two speakers and a subwoofer, which is easily more than enough for most computer systems. The problem is that there are so many available on the market that deciding between the different options can seem intimidating. We have done most of the research for you, and here are the top ten best 2.1 computer speakers we have selected.
Top 10 Best 2.1 Computer Speakers Comparison Table
Image | Product | Features | Price |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX Certified Computer Speaker System | THX-certified 200-watt digital hybrid amplifier Compatible with gaming consoles and most portable audio devices | $$ |
![]() | Creative Pebble Plus 2.1 Desktop Speakers | Down firing subwoofer High gain mode Onboard volume controls | $ |
![]() | Harman Kardon Soundsticks III 2.1 Channel Multimedia Speaker System with Subwoofer | Integrated Bluetooth Eight full-range transducers 6-Inch down-firing subwoofer | $ |
![]() | Audioengine A2+ Premium Powered Desktop Speakers | Includes USB, digital audio and subwoofer output Integrated USB DAC | $$$ |
![]() | Bose Companion 20 Multimedia Speaker System | Control pod to adjust or mute volume, connect headphones and add another audio device Bose TrueSpace technology reproduces wide, natural sound | $$$ |
![]() | Logitech Z623 Speaker System | 400Watts of Peak/200Watts (RMS) RCA and 3.5mm inputs Two satellite speakers and a powerful subwoofer | $ |
![]() | Edifier USA Prisma Encore 2.1 Bluetooth Audio | 64 watts (subwoofer: 40w | satellites 12w each) Professional amp with Digital Signal Processing (DSP) & Dynamic Range Control (DRC) | $$ |
![]() | Edifier USA 2.1 Speaker System | Uniquely designed Wooden enclosed, magnetically shielded subwoofer with 5 1/2 inch driver Capable of hosting multiple audio sources via 3.5mm auxiliary input, PC to PC signal input and CD to CD signal input | $ |
![]() | Cyber Acoustics Bluetooth Speakers | Adjustable LED lighting Bluetooth connectivity Booming sub | $ |
![]() | Cyber Acoustics CA-3602FFP 2.1 Speaker Sound System | Dedicated subwoofer 2-inch drivers Active speaker design | $ |
Best 2.1 Computer Speakers Reviews
1. Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX Certified Computer Speaker System
The Klipsch ProMedia is a great speaker from a not so well known company. This speaker combination, which includes a large subwoofer and two smaller speakers, provide an amazing 200 watts of clear digital sound. These speakers are THX certified, and provide a beautiful sound experience that rivals some of the more known sound competitors like Bose. A fairly unique feature of this speaker system is the inclusion of both a volume and a bass knob at the base of the left speaker. The Klipsch has MicroTractrix Horn technology that allows users to get the most out of their digital music.
Key Features:
- THX-certified
- 200-watt digital hybrid amplifier
- Compatible with gaming consoles and most portable audio devices
Creative Pebble Plus 2.1 Desktop Speakers
Check out this beautifully designed speaker system! The Pebble Plus speakers are the perfect companion for your desktop computer. The two 4-inch speakers provide a nice stereo spread for your games, movies, and music. Meanwhile, the subwoofer gives your media the thumping bass it needs. The subwoofer points downward, providing the best bass frequency spread possible.
This system doesn’t require any fancy equipment or complex wiring. It’s USB-powered and connects to your computer directly. Thanks to the onboard volume controls, it’s a foolproof system that anyone can use.
Key Features:
- Down firing subwoofer
- High gain mode
- Onboard volume controls
- USB powered
- Available in many colors
3. Harman Kardon Soundsticks III 2.1 Channel Multimedia Speaker System with Subwoofer
Simply put, the Harmon Kardon Soundsticks are the most beautiful speakers on our list. Currently, one of the previous models of this speaker system is on permanent display at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. Both of the futuristic transparent speakers are complete with four transducers that are each one inch in width. The dome-shaped subwoofer has one transducer on the bottom of the device that is raised from the surface by spaceship-like legs. The angle of each speaker is fully adjustable, and the volume control on the left speaker is touch sensitive. Insofar as performance, these speakers deliver an impressive 55 watts per channel.
Key Features:
- Integrated Bluetooth
- Eight full-range transducers
- 6-Inch down-firing subwoofer
4. Audioengine A2+ Premium Powered Desktop Speakers
Audioengine has made a good name for themselves by making small PC speakers that have amazing sound. The A2+ speakers are 6 inches tall and 4 inches deep. The sound quality from these little speakers approaches the 3D quality that people expect from a good set of headphones. What is most impressive about these speakers is that Audioengine did not include any digital signal processing (DSP). DSP is typically used by speaker manufacturers to artificially boost base frequencies in a speaker system, so the fact that these speakers produce such a rich sound without this feature is impressive. This speaker system is available in black, white, and red.
Key Features:
- Includes USB, digital audio and subwoofer output
- Integrated USB DAC
5. Bose Companion 20 Multimedia Speaker System
Bose is one of the most well known producers of quality audio systems, and the Bose Companion 20 helps extends that legacy into the world of computer speakers. These speakers have an impressive build quality, and include a control pod that allows for easy volume adjustment, headphone attachment, and exterior device connection. The Bose TrueSpace Technology produces an amazing sound, especially when listening to an acoustic or an electric guitar. It also has an active electronic equalization system that ensures a full range of natural sound can be experienced. The inconspicuous silver design means that they can be placed anywhere in the room.
Key Features:
- Control pod to adjust or mute volume, connect headphones and add another audio device
- Bose TrueSpace technology reproduces wide, natural sound
6. Logitech Z623 Speaker System
Logitech is well known for creating quality speakers at a reasonably low budget. The tiny, yet powerful Z623 speaker system is one of the best that the company has produced so far. For everyday listening, users will be able to get crystal clear sound while only needing to turn the volume up a third of the way. The bases of the speakers are padded to assure that vibrations do not damage the surface that the speakers are housed upon. In addition, there is a convenient connection for headphones and external devices right on the front of the right speaker. When it comes to sound quality, these speakers are THX certified.
Key Features:
- 400Watts of Peak/200Watts (RMS)
- RCA and 3.5mm inputs
- Two satellite speakers and a powerful subwoofer
7. Edifier USA Prisma Encore 2.1 Bluetooth Audio
The Edifier USA Prisma speaker system has one of the more unique looks on our list. The subwoofer sports a rounded pyramid shape, and the speakers themselves are angled towers. The subwoofer transducer is oriented downward; and as a result, the design takes on an even more futuristic shape. This sleek styled speaker system is available in glossy black and white. In addition, a wireless remote that controls the volume and the audio source selection is included. Volume and playback features on this speaker system are touch sensitive. The Edifier USA Prisma produces a crystal clear sound quality of 64 watts.
Key Features:
- 64 watts (subwoofer: 40w | satellites 12w each)
- Professional amp w
- Digital Signal Processing (DSP) & Dynamic Range Control (DRC)
8. Edifier USA 2.1 Speaker System
This is another uniquely designed speaker system from the folks at Edifier. The USA 2.1 speaker system is a seamless blend of features, consisting of the unique visual styling that Edifier is known for combined with quality components at a very reasonable price. The system also comes with a master volume controller that is padded to help avoid damaging any surface that it’s sitting on. The controller itself is a uniquely designed dial that is positioned above two 3.5 inch jacks for audio output and input. Under the volume dial is a glowing blue LED which looks nice in low light. Finally, the system has an output of about 16 watts, but produces a great overall sound.
Key Features:
- Uniquely designed
- Wooden enclosed, magnetically shielded subwoofer with 5 1/2 inch driver
- Capable of hosting multiple audio sources via 3.5mm auxiliary input, PC to PC signal input and CD to CD signal input
Cyber Acoustics Bluetooth Speakers
Take your listening experience to the next level. This Cyber Acoustics system features two stereo speakers and a robust subwoofer. The subwoofer deserves a special shoutout here. It features a reflex port on the back to make those bass tones resonate throughout the room.
One unique feature of this system is the LED lighting. Cycle through the various colors or stick to one pattern to create a distinct theme. The lights set the mood and add a brand-new dimension to your music. You can adjust the lights and the speakers’ performance directly on the control panel, which is on the side of the subwoofer for convenience.
Key Features:
- Adjustable LED lighting
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Booming sub
- Dedicated control panel
- Simple connection ports
Cyber Acoustics CA-3602FFP 2.1 Speaker Sound System
Whether you need a speaker system for your television or PC, this set from Cyber Acoustics has you covered. It’s a simple 2.1 surround sound system featuring two stereo speakers and a dedicated subwoofer. Together, the components create a room-filling sound that will bring your favorite media to life.
The smaller stereo speakers have dual two-inch drivers to create a smooth stereo spread. Connecting the entire system is a satellite control pod. There, you can take control of the sound quality and performance parameters. Adjust the volume, connect headphones, and tweak the bass level as you see fit.
Key Features:
- Dedicated subwoofer
- 2-inch drivers
- Active speaker design
- Satellite control pod
Best 2.1 Computer Speaker Buyer’s Guide
Price
Pricing will set the tone for every other category. First establish how much you want to spend. You can get an impressive even arguably the best 2.1 computer speaker setup for under $100 and a good setup for around $50, but they won’t have the bells and whistles or range of sound that a unit running at a higher price range will offer. However, if you don’t need the bells and whistles, and you are installing your system in a smallish space, then an expensive system may not be the best 2.1 computer speaker setup for you. Good yes, but overkill for your space when a cheaper system will be just as good.
Ease Of Use
Ease of using the volume controls and power button are easily missed, but of great importance for frustration’s sake. If your 2.1 computer speakers are going into the perfect little nook that they just fit in, you will really want the controls on the front and the line inputs easily accessible.
Size
Speaking of space, different 2.1 speaker setups will have vastly different space needs. Some units offer onboard subwoofers in the regular speakers themselves, making them much bigger, but without the added space of a separate subwoofer unit. Most of the best 2.1 computer speakers setups have a separate subwoofer unit, however, and here sizing can vary wildly. Consider your own desktop needs when shopping.
Frequency
For the quality of the sound experience itself you will need to consider a 2.1 computer speaker setup’s given frequency range. Speaking generally, higher frequency speakers are easy enough to find. You will want to look out for the lower end of the subwoofer’s range. The human ear can hear a rough range of 20Hz – 20kHz, so the closer that subwoofer comes to 20Hz the better. That said, your experience would be far from subpar with a subwoofer that can reach 50Hz. Note that with better range will come a heftier price tag.
Distortion
Another quality of sound note is researching into a speaker’s sound distortion at higher volumes. This isn’t a specification that will be listed on the box, but usually a quick search through product reviews can bring to attention a tendency towards that jarring, crackling fuzz at the breakdown of your favorite song.
Connectivity
Note what kind of input your computer will require. RCA input, 3.5 mm input, and Bluetooth are used in various combinations on each separate 2.1 computer speaker set. If your computer only has a 3.5 mm port and your speakers only come with RCA input it’ll take an unnecessary haul to your local electronics store to get the required adaptor. If you want to play music from your phone and keep it on hand while you do chores you’ll definitely want to find yourself the best 2.1 computer speakers setup with Bluetooth connectivity.
Another thing to think about, is if your speakers are going to be on-the-go or if you just want a sleeker looking speaker. If this is the case you may want to shun any 2.1 speaker setups with plastic casings. More durable materials can get expensive, but a sudden drop from a bag can be much more so if your computer speakers break.
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