10 Best Speakers For Gaming PC
By Robert Jones · 2023-09-11
You've got a beast of a gaming PC, but what about the sound? Don't let dinky speakers ruin your immersion. I've put some serious hours into finding the best PC speakers for gamers, from budget-friendly bangs to serious audiophile kit. Let's get your audio sorted.
Right then, so you've just dropped a grand or two on a shiny new gaming rig. Flashing lights, liquid cooling, the works. But what about the sound? Far too many times I see folks splashing out on the best graphics card money can buy, only to plug their beast into some dinky little speakers that came free with a pre-built PC back in the day. Honestly, it's like buying a Ferrari and putting bicycle wheels on it. ### **Quick Verdict:** **For immersive PC gaming sound, you really want proper stereo speakers with a dedicated subwoofer.** Look, I've been messing about with speakers, amps, and all sorts of audio kit for over two decades now, testing stuff in my workshop and at home. From rumbling subwoofers to pin-sharp tweeters, I've heard it all. And when it comes to gaming, the right speakers don't just make the explosions bigger; they bring the whole world to life. That subtle rustle in the bushes, the distant siren, the crackle of a forgotten radio – these are the bits that truly pull you in. Skip on audio, and you're missing half the experience. Now, before we get stuck in, a quick word about what we're actually talking about here. We're not looking at those tiny, tinny USB speakers. No, we want proper desktop speakers, often with a subwoofer, that can give you some decent punch and clarity. And we're looking at a range of prices, because not everyone has unlimited quid to throw at their setup, do they?  *10 Best Speakers For Gaming PC — tested in the SpeakersMag workshop.* ## Why Your Gaming PC Deserves Better Sound It’s not just about volume, is it? Good audio tells you things. In a competitive shooter, knowing *where* those footsteps are coming from can be the difference between a headshot and getting sent back to the lobby. In an open-world RPG, ambient sounds draw you deeper into the environment. A well-placed rumble from a subwoofer when a tank rolls past your virtual character? That's immersion, that is. Your headphones might be alright, but nothing beats the physical impact and soundstage a good set of speakers can provide in a proper room. Think about it. You've got this powerful machine, pushing out incredible visuals. Why wouldn't you want audio that matches that quality? It's like going to the cinema for a blockbuster and getting the sound played through your phone. Makes no sense. ## What to Look For: My Two Cents When I'm testing speakers for gaming, I'm not just cranking up the volume. I'm listening for specific things. Here's my checklist: * **Clarity and Detail:** Can I hear individual elements in the sound mix? Are voices clear? Can I distinguish between different weapon sounds? * **Soundstage:** Do the speakers create a sense of space? Can I tell if something is coming from the left, right, or even further away? This is crucial for immersion. * **Bass Response:** This is where a subwoofer often comes in. Does it provide a tight, punchy bass without being boomy or muddy? Explosions and engine noises need to feel impactful, not just loud. * **Mid-range Presence:** Dialogue, weapon reloads, ambient effects – these live in the mids. They need to be well-represented, not scooped out or overshadowed by bass and treble. * **Connectivity:** What inputs do they have? USB, optical, RCA, 3.5mm jack, Bluetooth? You want options. * **Build Quality:** Are they going to fall apart after a year? Do they feel solid? Are the cables decent? * **Footprint:** How much space do they take up on your desk? Important for us with smaller setups. ### Speaker Types for Gaming Generally, you're looking at two main types for your PC: * **2.0 Stereo Speakers:** Just two speakers, left and right. Simple, often more compact. Good for music and general use, but can lack that deep rumble for gaming without a separate sub. * **2.1 Speaker Systems:** Two speakers (satellites) and a separate subwoofer. This is often the sweet spot for gaming, giving you a wider soundstage and that all-important low-end punch. ## My Top Picks for Gaming PC Speakers (and a Few to Avoid) Alright, let's get to the nitty-gritty. I've put some serious hours into listening to these, both in-game and with a bit of music and film to get a rounded view. Prices are approximate, mind, they can jump about a bit. ### 1. Logitech Z623 (2.1 System) * **Price:** Around £130-£150 * **Who it's for:** Gamers on a sensible budget who want proper bass and a powerful sound. Great for action games and movies. * **Who should skip it:** If you're after audiophile-grade precision or a super-refined sound, look elsewhere. Not the most discreet system visually. I've had a set of these knocking about the workshop for ages. They're a bit of a workhorse, aren't they? For the money, the Z623s absolutely deliver on power. The THX certification isn't just for show – they can get seriously loud and fill a room with sound without breaking a sweat. The subwoofer is a beast, really. For explosions, gunfire, and rumbling engines, it's fantastic. It’s a bit of a blunt instrument, though. Don't expect the most nuanced bass, it's more about impact. The satellite speakers are decent enough, though the mid-range can get a bit lost in the mix if you push the bass too hard. Connectivity is good, with RCA and a 3.5mm input, so you can hook up a few things. **Pros:** * Powerful, room-filling sound * Deep, impactful bass from the subwoofer * THX-certified for loud, clear audio * Good value for money **Cons:** * Bass can be a bit boomy, not super refined * Mid-range can get slightly overshadowed * Bulky subwoofer takes up desk/floor space ### 2. Audioengine A2+ Wireless (2.0 Speakers) * **Price:** Around £250-£300 * **Who it's for:** Discerning gamers who value clarity, detail, and a more balanced sound. Also great for music lovers. Those with smaller desks. * **Who should skip it:** If you absolutely need earth-shattering bass without a separate subwoofer, or you're on a tighter budget. Now these are a bit more grown-up. Audioengine make some cracking little speakers, and the A2+ are no exception. I use a pair of their bigger A5+ in my office, actually. These A2+ are 2.0 speakers, so no separate sub. But don't let that fool you; they produce an astonishing amount of bass for their size. It's tight, controlled bass, mind you, not the chest-thumping variety. What they excel at is clarity. The soundstage is lovely and wide, and you can pinpoint sounds really well in games. Dialogue is crisp, and music sounds fantastic. They've got a built-in DAC, USB input, and Bluetooth, which is handy. They do cost a bit more, but you're paying for quality drivers and a refined sound. You *can* add a subwoofer later if you feel the need, and that's a great upgrade path. **Pros:** * Exceptional clarity and detail * Compact size, ideal for smaller desks * Balanced, natural sound signature * High-quality built-in DAC and connectivity options * Excellent for both gaming and music **Cons:** * More expensive than 2.1 systems with subs * Bass, while good for size, won't shake the room on its own ### 3. Razer Nommo Pro (2.1 System) * **Price:** Around £450-£500 * **Who it's for:** Serious PC gamers with a healthy budget who want cutting-edge design, powerful sound, and a feature set tailored for gaming. * **Who should skip it:** If you don't care about RGB lighting or THX certification, or if you prefer a more neutral sound profile for music primarily. Razer, eh? They usually make mice and keyboards, but they've had a good crack at speakers here. The Nommo Pro are *proper* gaming speakers. The design is unique, with those cylindrical satellites and an upward-firing subwoofer. THX certification again, so you know they can go loud and clear. What really stands out here is the spatial audio. They do a fantastic job of creating a believable 3D soundscape, which is brilliant for knowing exactly where enemies are. The bass is deep and powerful, though it can be a bit overbearing if not dialled back. RGB lighting, of course, because it's Razer. The price is a bit spicy, though. You're definitely paying for the brand and the gaming-specific features. **Pros:** * Excellent spatial audio and imaging for gaming * Powerful and impactful THX-certified sound * Unique, modern design with RGB lighting * Solid connectivity with optical, USB, Bluetooth, 3.5mm **Cons:** * Very expensive * Bass can be a bit overwhelming at times * Design might not suit everyone's aesthetic ### 4. Edifier R1280DBs (2.0 Speakers) * **Price:** Around £130-£150 * **Who it's for:** Budget-conscious gamers and multimedia users who want a warm, pleasant sound and decent connectivity without needing a separate sub. * **Who should skip it:** If you need huge bass for explosions or want super-sharp detail for competitive gaming. Edifier are a solid choice for budget-friendly active speakers, and I've always been quite impressed with what they offer. The R1280DBs are no exception. They look a bit more traditional, like proper bookshelf speakers. Sound-wise, they're warm and inviting, excellent for casual gaming, YouTube, and music. The bass is respectable for a 2.0 system at this price, though it won't shake the foundations. The mids are clear, and the treble is smooth, not harsh. They've got Bluetooth, optical, coaxial, and RCA inputs, which is a great selection for the money. You can even add a sub if you want, which is a nice touch for a 2.0 system. A really good all-rounder if you're not chasing pure gaming performance. **Pros:** * Warm, pleasant, and balanced sound profile * Excellent connectivity options (Bluetooth, optical, RCA) * Solid build quality and classic aesthetic * Subwoofer output for future upgrades * Great value for money **Cons:** * Bass is good for 2.0, but not earth-shattering * Not as analytical or detailed as more expensive options * Larger footprint than some compact 2.0 speakers ### 5. Creative Pebble V3 (2.0 Speakers) * **Price:** Around £35-£45 * **Who it's for:** Extremely budget-conscious users who need a significant upgrade from laptop speakers or basic monitor audio, with minimal desk space. * **Who should skip it:** Anyone who expects real bass, room-filling sound, or high-fidelity audio. These are strictly entry-level. Honestly, give this one a miss unless you're really skint and just need *something*. These are tiny. Seriously tiny. And for their size and price, they do a commendable job. The sound is clear enough for dialogue and basic game sounds, and they're USB-powered and USB-C audio compatible, which is handy. They even have Bluetooth. But let's be realistic: they're not going to blow your socks off. There's barely any bass to speak of, and they struggle with anything complex. Think of them as a massive step up from your monitor's built-in speakers, not a true gaming audio solution. But for £40? Hard to grumble too much if that's all you've got. **Pros:** * Extremely affordable * Very compact, minimal desk footprint * USB-C audio and power, Bluetooth * Decent clarity for their size and price **Cons:** * Almost no bass response * Limited volume and soundstage * Not suitable for serious gaming immersion ### 6. Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 (2.1 System) * **Price:** Around £150-£180 * **Who it's for:** Gamers who want a classic, powerful 2.1 system known for its clear highs and impactful bass, particularly good for rock music and action games. * **Who should skip it:** If you prefer a more neutral sound, or want the latest connectivity options beyond 3.5mm input. The Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 has been around the block a few times, and for good reason. It's a bit of a legend in the PC speaker world. I remember recommending these to mates years ago, and they're still going strong. They're THX-certified, like the Logitechs, meaning they can push out some serious volume with minimal distortion. The sound is typically Klipsch: bright, dynamic, with crystal-clear highs thanks to those horn-loaded tweeters, and a punchy, aggressive bass from the subwoofer. Great for bringing out details in game audio and giving explosions that *thump*. They are a bit long in the tooth now, only offering a 3.5mm input, so no optical or USB, which is a shame. But if you just want to plug and play and get a powerful sound, they're still a strong contender. **Pros:** * Legendary powerful and dynamic sound * Crystal-clear highs and impactful bass * THX-certified for high volume and clarity * Durable and reliable build **Cons:** * Limited connectivity (only 3.5mm) * Sound signature might be too bright for some * Design is a bit dated now ### 7. Bose Companion 2 Series III (2.0 Speakers) * **Price:** Around £100-£120 * **Who it's for:** Users who want a simple, compact, and aesthetically pleasing 2.0 system with good, balanced sound for general use, including light gaming. * **Who should skip it:** Those who demand deep bass, detailed soundstage for competitive gaming, or advanced connectivity options. Bose. You either love 'em or you hate 'em, don't you? But one thing you can't deny is that they make things *sound good* for their size. The Companion 2 Series III speakers are a tidy, compact 2.0 system. They produce a surprisingly full and balanced sound for their footprint, with a decent, if not earth-shattering, bass. What they do well is offer a clean, pleasing sound that's easy to listen to for hours. They're ideal if you want something discreet that still sounds much better than your monitor speakers. Connectivity is super simple: just a 3.5mm jack. No fancy extras, just plug in and go. For competitive gaming where you need to hear every pin drop, they might not be precise enough, but for immersive story-driven games and general PC use, they're quite nice. **Pros:** * Compact and aesthetically pleasing design * Balanced and pleasing sound for their size * Easy to set up and use * Good for general multimedia and light gaming **Cons:** * Limited bass response for gaming explosions * Very basic connectivity (3.5mm only) * Not the most detailed or analytical sound * A bit pricey for a 2.0 system with basic features ### 8. SteelSeries Arena 7 (2.1 System) * **Price:** Around £280-£320 * **Who it's for:** Dedicated gamers who want a modern 2.1 system with excellent spatial audio, powerful bass, and integrated RGB lighting. * **Who should skip it:** If you prioritize a strictly neutral sound for music, or don't care for RGB and gaming-specific features. SteelSeries are another big name in gaming peripherals, and their Arena series is a strong contender. The Arena 7 is a 2.1 system that really leans into the gaming aesthetic and features. The DTS Surround Sound is genuinely effective, creating a really convincing sense of direction and space in games. The bass is handled by a downward-firing subwoofer, and it's got some serious punch to it. The satellites look pretty slick with their RGB lighting (if you like that sort of thing) and they put out a clear, dynamic sound. Connectivity is decent with USB, optical, and 3.5mm. It's a solid system if you want something purpose-built for gaming that looks the part too. **Pros:** * Excellent DTS Surround Sound for spatial audio * Powerful and resonant subwoofer * Integrated RGB lighting (for the aesthetic) * Good range of connectivity options * Clear and dynamic satellite sound **Cons:** * More expensive than some comparable 2.1 systems * RGB lighting might not be for everyone * Sound profile is tuned for gaming, less neutral for music purists ### 9. Swans D100 (2.0 Speakers) * **Price:** Around £350-£400 * **Who it's for:** Audiophiles who game, or anyone wanting exceptional sound quality, imaging, and a premium build for both gaming and music, with the option to add a sub later. * **Who should skip it:** Budget-focused gamers, or those who need a compact solution. These are serious speakers. Alright, if you're getting serious about your audio, then a pair of Swans speakers might be just the ticket. These D100s are active 2.0 bookshelf speakers, and they are *good*. You get a planar tweeter and a proper mid-bass driver, all housed in a beautifully finished cabinet. The sound is incredibly detailed, with superb imaging – you can really place sounds accurately in a game world. The bass is surprisingly deep and well-controlled for a 2.0, but it's a refined bass, not just pure rumble. They're fantastic for music and bring a whole new dimension to game soundtracks. Connectivity includes optical, coaxial, RCA, and Bluetooth. They're a fair bit larger than your average PC speaker and they certainly cost a fair bit more, but you're getting a serious piece of audio engineering here. You could easily add a quality subwoofer later to make them a truly formidable 2.1 system. **Pros:** * Exceptional sound clarity and detail * Superb imaging and soundstage * Premium build quality and aesthetic * Refined and well-controlled bass for a 2.0 * Versatile connectivity options **Cons:** * Significantly more expensive * Larger footprint, require more desk space * No separate subwoofer included (though you can add one) ### 10. PreSonus Eris E3.5 (2.0 Studio Monitors) * **Price:** Around £100-£120 * **Who it's for:** Aspiring content creators, musicians, or serious gamers who want a flat, accurate, and analytical sound profile for mixing, monitoring, and detailed gaming audio. * **Who should skip it:** Those who prefer a coloured, bass-heavy, or punchy sound out-of-the-box for casual gaming. These are tools, not toys. These are studio monitors, designed to give you an uncoloured, accurate representation of your audio. And that's exactly what they do. I've got a pair of their bigger E5XTs in my home studio. The Eris E3.5 are brilliant for hearing *everything* in your game's sound mix. Footsteps, bullet ricochets, ambient noises – they're all there, clear as day. The bass is tight and controlled, though not as deep as a dedicated subwoofer, naturally. The stereo imaging is excellent, allowing for precise directional awareness. For competitive gaming, where every sound cue matters, these are fantastic. For casual gaming where you just want big booms, they might sound a bit dry compared to a consumer-tuned system. Connectivity is simple, with RCA and TRS inputs, plus a front-panel aux in for convenience. If accuracy and detail are your priorities, these are superb value. **Pros:** * Flat, accurate, and detailed sound reproduction * Excellent for competitive gaming and content creation * Superb stereo imaging and soundstage * Good build quality for the price **Cons:** * Less impactful bass compared to 2.1 systems * Sound can be perceived as "dry" by some for casual listening * Not designed for a coloured, exciting sound profile ## Comparison Table: Gaming PC Speakers | Model | Type | Price (approx.) | Bass Response | Clarity/Detail | Connectivity | Who it's for | | :--------------------- | :--- | :-------------- | :------------ | :------------- | :------------------- | :-------------------------------------------------- | | **Logitech Z623** | 2.1 | £130-£150 | **Very Good** | Good | RCA, 3.5mm | Budget-conscious, powerful sound, action games | | **Audioengine A2+** | 2.0 | £250-£300 | Good | **Excellent** | USB, 3.5mm, BT | Balanced, clear sound, music, small desks | | **Razer Nommo Pro** | 2.1 | £450-£500 | **Excellent** | Very Good | Opt, USB, BT, 3.5mm | Serious gamers, spatial audio, RGB | | **Edifier R1280DBs** | 2.0 | £130-£150 | Good | Very Good | Opt, Coax, RCA, BT | Warm sound, general use, upgradeable bass | | **Creative Pebble V3** | 2.0 | £35-£45 | Poor | Fair | USB-C, 3.5mm, BT | Ultra-budget, basic sound, very compact | | **Klipsch ProMedia 2.1** | 2.1 | £150-£180 | **Very Good** | Very Good | 3.5mm | Classic, powerful, clear highs, action games | | **Bose Companion 2 III** | 2.0 | £100-£120 | Fair | Good | 3.5mm | Simple, compact, balanced sound, general multimedia | | **SteelSeries Arena 7** | 2.1 | £280-£320 | **Excellent** | Very Good | USB, Opt, 3.5mm | Dedicated gamers, DTS, RGB, immersive bass | | **Swans D100** | 2.0 | £350-£400 | Very Good | **Exceptional**| Opt, Coax, RCA, BT | Audiophile, premium sound, music, detailed gaming | | **PreSonus Eris E3.5** | 2.0 | £100-£120 | Good | **Excellent** | RCA, TRS, 3.5mm | Accurate sound, competitive gaming, content creation| ## Setting Up Your Gaming Speakers Right Right, you've picked your speakers, now don't just plonk 'em down anywhere. A bit of effort here makes a huge difference. You wouldn't stick your telly in the corner of a room and expect a perfect picture, would you? ### **Placement is Key** * **Stereo Triangle:** Position your left and right speakers to form an equilateral triangle with your listening position (your head). This helps with imaging and soundstage. The tweeters should ideally be at ear height. * **Distance from Walls:** Try to pull the speakers a little away from the back wall, especially if they're rear-ported. Too close and the bass can get boomy and uncontrolled. Experiment a bit. * **Subwoofer Placement:** This is a bit more forgiving. Start with it on the floor, near your desk, or even under it. Bass waves are less directional. If it sounds too muddy, try moving it. The "subwoofer crawl" is a proper technique – put the sub in your listening position, then crawl around the room. Where the bass sounds best, that's where the sub should go! Might look a bit daft, but it works. ### **Cable Management** Don't let a rat's nest of cables ruin your desk. Good quality cables make a difference, especially for longer runs. Keep power cables separate from audio cables where possible to avoid interference. ### **Room Acoustics (A Bit Advanced)** Your room plays a massive part in how your speakers sound. Hard surfaces like bare walls, desks, and windows can cause reflections, making sound harsh or muddy. A rug, some curtains, or even a bookshelf full of books can help to absorb some of those reflections. Don't go mad, but just be aware that the room is as much a part of your sound system as the speakers themselves. ## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ### Q: Should I get 2.0 or 2.1 speakers for gaming? A: For most gamers, especially those playing action-heavy titles or wanting more immersion, a 2.1 system (two satellites + subwoofer) is usually the better bet. That dedicated subwoofer makes a huge difference to explosions, vehicle engines, and general impact. If space is tight, or you prioritize music listening and a cleaner sound, a good quality 2.0 system can be excellent, and you can always add a subwoofer later if you really miss that low-end punch. ### Q: Are gaming headsets better than speakers for competitive gaming? A: It depends on what you mean by "better." For pure competitive advantage in games where pinpointing footsteps is critical, a good quality stereo gaming headset can often give you slightly better positional accuracy in a tight soundscape. This is partly due to the proximity of the drivers to your ears, and often some clever virtual surround processing. However, speakers provide a more physical, immersive, and less fatiguing experience for longer sessions. For story-driven or open-world games, speakers win hands down for immersion. It often comes down to personal preference and the specific game you