Computers come with integrated speakers. But let’s face it, these speakers never meet our sound preferences. That’s why we go for a set of external speakers to get the most out of our computers. When it comes to buying computer speakers under $50, it comes down to the difference between computer speakers that deliver excellent sound and those that are just crappy because of cheap production.Â
Best Overall Computer Speaker:Â Cyber Acoustics CA-3602FFP
Cyber Acoustics CA-3602FFP is an incredible model. It achieves amazing sound that can fill any room thanks to the two satellite speakers and subwoofer. With this computer speaker system, you can achieve optimized sound in your office or at home.
Here, we tackle reviews of the Best Computer Speakers Under $50. We are going to look at the top performing brands that produce speakers that are worth much more in terms of unique sound quality, advanced technology, and multiple auxiliary ports to connect to all your computer and other desired devices.
Top 10 Computer Speaker Reviews
Our #1 Recommendation: Best Overall
Do you constantly watch movies, listen to music, and game on your computer? You are probably looking for the ideal computer speakers to deliver all around sound no matter the task at hand. With the Cyber Acoustics CA-3602FFP, you get powerful sound complemented by a rich bass.Â
Functionality
This brand gives us speakers with a 2.1 configuration. These include a subwoofer and dual satellite speakers shielding two, 2-inch drivers. This combination produces room-filling sound as it gives you a total of 62watts peak power and 30 watts RMS.Â
You have a desktop control pod that has the on/off switch, master and bass volume control, headphone output jack, LED power indicator, and the auxiliary input. It is an innovative addition as you have full control without touching the speakers.Â
PerformanceÂ
The subwoofer is contained in an acoustically tuned wood cabinet. This enables it to kick up the bass to give dramatic sound for a subwoofer its size. The satellite speakers, on the other hand, complement the subwoofer to provide crisp, clear sound. They are a remarkable combination that produces pleasing sound with the power to fill a medium-sized room at all volume levels.
Our #2 Recommendation: Best Bluetooth Computer Speaker
For those looking to go wireless on computer speakers, you have Bluetooth convenience brought by the distinct Oontz 3 Bluetooth Speaker.Â
FunctionalityÂ
This speaker delivers 10W peak power to give outstanding sound from your computer. It connects wirelessly via Bluetooth meaning you can use it wherever you are as long as you are in the connection range.Â
It uses two stereo drivers to give you crystal clear sound that is distortion free. These are two neodymium drivers that provide clean highs and mids so that you can listen to movies, music, games, and control apps. It also comes with a bass driver that enhances the bass to make it strong and vibrant. With the triangular design, the speaker separates the drivers from the bass radiator; thus you get better audio clarity.Â
PerformanceÂ
Ontz Bluetooth Speaker performs with excellence from the sound, connectivity, and convenience. It can not only connect to your laptop, but you can also connect it to your iPhone, iPod, Mac, tablets, and Chromebooks. It also supports Amazon Echo and Amazon Echo Dot, plus you can use the 3.5mm aux input port to connect to your TV and any other device that is not Bluetooth enabled.Â
This model brings the convenience of portability meaning you can carry it in your backpack when you want to hold a party by the pool as you enjoy 10watts of powerful sound.Â
Pros
- It has an IPX5 water-resistant rating
- A grille separates sound drivers and radiator
- It enjoys distortion-free sound at high volume levels
- It gives up to 12hours battery life
- It is ultra-lightweight for portability
- It has a built-in mic for hands-free picking of calls
Cons
- It is not ideal for large rooms
Our #3 Recommendation: Best Desktop Computer Speakers
Perhaps the most simplistic design on computer speakers is the Amazon Basics. Connecting simply via 3.5mm jack, you can listen to music using these speakers right from their package. You even get to take them with you as they use power directly from your computer via USB.Â
Functionality
Amazon Basics produces sturdy speakers that simplify your PC’s audio set up. These are two compact speakers that can sit elegantly alongside your desktop computer. The speakers boast a construction from durable plastic that can withstand pressure from its 3W sound.Â
The two speakers are hard-wired together using a 3.5mm jack. It just needs a quick connection to your computer and you are set. With the USB power capability, it offers you the convenience of portability as you can take it along with your laptop.Â
Performance
3W power is not ideal for a large house, but if you want speakers to use in your dorm room, Amazon Basics does not disappoint. The audio jack allows you to connect it to your phone, mp3 devices, tablet, etc. It is a simplistic system that comes at a teeny tiny cost.
Pros
- It uses one simple control
- It sets up easy via an audio jack
- Plugs directly into the computer for power
- It can support other multimedia devices like an Mp3 player
Cons
- It lacks a supporting subwoofer for the bass
Best Speakers for Laptops
Featuring a trendy design, the Earise AL-101 Mini Computer Speakers are your best bet for laptops or if you have limited desktop space.Â
FunctionalityÂ
These computer speakers come in an adorable size. You don’t need sizeable real estate so you can squeeze them just next to your laptop. They have a USB cable and an audio jack that both need plugging into your computer to complete the setup. The audio capable is 55 inches long which makes it easy to configure the set up just the way you love it.Â
PerformanceÂ
It is quite surprising the sound output you get from these small-size computer speakers. They each deliver 2.5W RMS power. They can blast a small room with good sound, but you will lack some of the oomph when listening to music and movies with dramatic background sound because they do not have a bass speaker.Â
But you will love that they have negligible distortion at high volumes. You can crank it up and enjoy using your laptop to listen to your favorite tunes.
Pros
- Compact for use with limited space
- Meets acoustic-quality sound
- Long cable provides set up and control convenience
- Universally compatible with all laptops via 3.5mm jack cable
- Powers via USB
Cons
- The low-range sound is not very clear
Multipurpose Computer Speakers
The Genius SW-G 2.1 1250 competes with the best of the best computer speakers. It boasts reliability in a system that is fit for your desktop, laptop, Mp3 players, Notebooks, TVs, DVD, and game consoles.Â
FunctionalityÂ
This speaker system consists of a subwoofer housed in an MDF board cabinet and dual cone speakers. The subwoofer with its 5.25-inch bass drive delivers incredible bass with just the right resonance for gaming, watching movies, and listening to all kinds of music genres.Â
We like that the dual cone speakers balance out the sound by producing full midrange for excellent sound reproduction. It carries a standard input jack and stereo RCA jack to give you the convenience of connecting to your computer and other devices.Â
PerformanceÂ
You will love that although these are not fancy speakers, they can recreate sound with accuracy. With them, you don’t have to watch the volume when it’s too high as it resists distortion. Since the cones are magnetically shielded, you will always have smooth sound being pumped in your room.Â
Pros
- It has good mid-range sound and rich bass
- It comes with a control box for the volume and bass
- Delivers 38W output power
- Two connecting options using either 3.5mm jack or stereo RCA jack
- The speakers can be wall-hanged with a hook
Cons
- The cones are not protected by grilles which may affect their longevity if you ever drop them
Best Value Computer Speaker
Logitech has their way of producing pleasing computer peripherals. These particular speakers; the Logitech Z323 is no exception as they receive warm approval from most computer users.Â
FunctionalityÂ
A glossy finish complements the dual driver speakers and subwoofer that deliver strong bass output. At 60W output power, it’s undoubtedly deafening when using the system in a small or large room. Now you can throw a party in your dorm room or house and never have to deal with poor sound quality when you are up to a fun-filled night.Â
On the back of each satellite is a tweeter which does great to project sound evenly. This way, you don’t have to be facing the speakers to listen to smooth sound. It gives you seamless sound, and it also allows connecting your headphones and any other auxiliary device.Â
PerformanceÂ
Looking at the sound output, Logitech manages to give consistent room-filling sound for up to the middle volume sound. After that, you will notice a degree of distortion as the subwoofer seems to overwhelm the satellite speakers at high volumes. It is excellent if you are a casual listener and don’t need speakers for everyday gaming and daily music parties.
Pros
- A 3.5mm and dual RCA jack to connect to the computer, headphones, Mp3, etc.
- Produces 360-degree sound
- Can reach to 60W output power
- Subwoofer achieves deep bass
- It has a headphone jack to facilitate private listening
Cons
- The volume and bass control is on the subwoofer which makes it challenging to control if you keep it under your desk
Best for Gaming
Cyber Acoustics CA-3090 computer speakers are elegant, featuring a flat panel design. They give you optimized sound for all your gaming needs thanks to their impeccable sound clarity.Â
FunctionalityÂ
The two satellite speakers house dynamic 2-inch drivers for great sound reproduction. They are complemented by a 4-inch side firing subwoofer housed in a poly carbon box. The speaker system can deliver up to 18W peak power that can fill just about any room when you need it.Â
This speaker system is supplied with a control pod. It allows you to turn the unit on and off, and control the volume. The control pod also carries the aux jack, headphone jack, and LED indicator. The bass control is on the subwoofer which means you have to keep it at arm’s length for easy control.
PerformanceÂ
This system is built with audio junkies in mind. With the use of high-efficiency drivers, you get remarkable mids and highs and booming bass from the subwoofer. Many people agree it can entertain friends since it is consistent even at high volume levels. What better way to game and party than with speakers that can meet your listening needs?
Pros
- Beautiful flat-panel design
- Powerful subwoofer and dynamic drivers in satellite speakers
- The control pod is fast and straightforward to use
- It has a headphone jack and universal jack for connectivity
- It can reach up to 18W power for loud, distortion-free sound
Cons
- The bass control is on the woofer which limits its location when you need to control it constantly
Best for the Money
When looking for the ideal computer speakers under $50, technical qualities may not always be the first thing you look for in a particular model. But the Creative A-250 Multimedia Speaker System 2.1 has advanced technical details with sound output to fill a small room.Â
FunctionalityÂ
This speaker system utilizes dual slot enclosure which is engineering that improves frequency distribution by housing the port tube in a tight enclosure. It also features an advanced image focusing plate which means sonic directivity and imaging is top of its game.Â
We love that the configuration with two speakers and a subwoofer is small in that you can place it on a small desk with the downward facing subwoofer on the floor. The set up completes fast and easy when you plug the AC power cables and the audio jack.Â
PerformanceÂ
This model is an entry level system which delivers 9W output power. It might seem obvious about the sound quality you get with speakers at only 9W, but the system can provide sound frequency range from 40KHz to 20KHz. This means it has deep bass that is unlike other speakers its size. The high pitch sounds are clear with punchy bass that you can actually play at high volume. We can guarantee you are not going to be disappointed with the sound if you are looking for a device for office or dorm room use.Â
Pros
- Small speakers occupy little desk space
- Satellites have an anti-skid bottom
- Controls are all on the side of the right satellite
- Wooden subwoofer produces rich and deep, down-firing bass
Cons
- It is not great for filling sound in large rooms or a big house
The Genius Hi-Fi SP-HF500A Wood Speakers are aesthetically appealing. You not only get the good looks on the speakers but also powerful bass and crystal clear mids from the two drivers.Â
Functionality
The two-way Hi-Fi speakers consist of an inlaid tweeter and 3-inch drivers to deliver great sound from your computer. Since they are 8 inches high, the two speakers can give deeper bass to make up for the lack of a subwoofer.Â
You have large knobs at the base of the right speaker. These knobs give you access to the volume and tone control for customized listening. It includes the audio jack and a headphone jack that allows for private listening. You will find that the wood panel improves the sound quality so you can rave from the comfort of your room.
PerformanceÂ
Even with the sound quality being revered because of the size of these speakers, you will still find them unsatisfactory if you love booming bass. It does, however, have quality sound and clarity to get the details in a game or a movie. As such, its best use is for casual listeners.Â
Pros
- It has near-zero distortion at high levels
- It comes with tone and volume controls
- 3-inch drivers deliver warm and rich sound up to 14W peak power
- Connects via jack pin and includes a jack pin to connect multimedia devices
Cons
- The lows are not the best at high volume
Best Computer Speakers for Small Desktop Setup
If you are really crunched on space, the Cyber Acoustics CA-2014 will make use of the smallest available space. At only 7 inches high and 3 inches wide, both speakers will not be a problem squeezing into tight space.
FunctionalityÂ
This model utilizes two speakers with 2-inch drivers. They are capable of delivering smooth sound since they are magnetically shielded. You will love that they are protected by a cloth grille which means they are not susceptible to damage if you drop any of them.Â
You get easy desktop controls on one of the speakers to turn the speakers On and Off and also control the volume. It uses a 3.5mm jack to connect to your computer, and it has a headphone output. Whether you desire to crank up the volume in your office or are up to some private listening, these speakers are your best bet for outstanding sound quality.Â
Performance
This system is best suited for small rooms. It delivers sound with crisp, clear mids and highs, but it tends to distort at the highest volume. But you can use it for a variety of purposes like recording with your voice since it is magnetically shielded. It is also a good buy for listening to music and gaming due to its high-clarity levels.Â
Pros
- Compact for the smallest spaces
- Conveniently-placed controls
- Achieves a sleek and durable look owing to the cloth grill
- Achieves a sleek and durable look owing to the cloth grill
Cons
- The bass is not that good as it lacks a subwoofer
Best Computer Speakers Under $50: Buyer’s Guide
Choosing your computer’s sound system on a budget seems like an easy task. After all, you just need to pick the model that lines with your budget. But it is never that easy.
Let’s see which factors matter before picking your next computer speakers
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2.0 vs. 2.1 Channel :The difference between the two configurations is that a 2.0 system has two speakers with the amplifier housed in one of the speakers. A 2.1 channel configuration consists of two satellite speakers and a subwoofer/amplifier.
With a 2.0 system, you will not need large desktop space, but the bass extension might be affected. This means if you are looking for more in-depth and richer bass, you will have to look for a 2.1 speaker system. -
Connectivity : At our price range, you are looking at wired connections with very few models offering wireless connectivity for under $50. If you are okay with just connecting your computer, you are good with speakers that provide only one jack audio output. But if you want to connect more devices say your smartphone, iPod, TV, gaming console, etc. you will need the speaker system to include more audio ports.
Bluetooth connectivity is also possible in computer speakers. But you may have to sacrifice on the sound output power for the convenience of size and portability. - Controls : Many computer systems under $50 come with their controls on the speakers and subwoofers. If you will be placing your subwoofer under the desk, it becomes harder to control the bass since you need to keep reaching under your desk. If you can get one with a desktop control pod or remote control, the better it will be when controlling the volume, bass, and turning the speakers On and Off.
CONCLUSION OUR TOP PICK
Inexpensive speakers can also be awesome. After reviewing the features on each of these models, we all agree that the Cyber Acoustics CA-3602FFP is the best speaker in this price range It delivers excellent sound quality, multiple audio input interfaces, and durable construction.Â
You can also get the Oontz Angle 3 Portable Bluetooth Speaker if you are out to get a compact model that you can take anywhere. We also like the innovative design exhibited by the Amazon Basics systems as the speakers are powered directly from your computer.Â
We now believe you can pick the best computer speakers under $50 without compromising on quality. Go on and make a choice from our list, you can be sure it’s going to be great.
