15 Best Bluetooth Speakers For Computer in 2022
By Robert Jones · 2020-12-23
Fed up with your computer's rubbish speakers? Robert Jones, 20-year audio veteran, reviews the best Bluetooth speakers to upgrade your desktop sound, sharing genuine advice from the workshop.
Right, so you're probably sat there, fed up with those tinny little speakers built into your laptop or monitor, aren't ya? I hear it all the time. It's a crying shame, really, especially when you're trying to enjoy some decent tunes or actually hear what's going on in a game. Most folks don't realise just how much better things can sound with even a half-decent set of external speakers. **Quick Verdict: For most computer users, the Audioengine A2+ Wireless offers the best blend of sound quality, features, and size.** ### Why Bother with Separate Speakers? Look, I've been messing about with sound gear for over twenty years, and one thing's for sure: manufacturers don't put much thought into built-in computer speakers. They're an afterthought, designed to be cheap and just about functional. You get no bass, fuzzy mids, and highs that could grate cheese. If you care about music, films, or even just clearer dialogue on video calls, you need to upgrade. Bluetooth speakers, especially, offer a lot of flexibility without the cable clutter, which is a big plus on a desk. ### What I Look For in a Computer Speaker When I'm testing these things, I'm not just looking for something that makes noise. I'm looking for proper sound. That means a balanced frequency response – you want to hear the thump of a kick drum without it sounding like a wet cardboard box, clear vocals, and cymbals that sparkle, not hiss. Size matters too; you can't stick massive floorstanders next to your monitor. And connectivity, of course. Bluetooth is grand for convenience, but sometimes a USB or 3.5mm input is still useful. ### My Top Picks for Computer Bluetooth Speakers I've had dozens of these things come through my workshop over the years. Some are brilliant, some are absolute rubbish. These are the ones I'd genuinely recommend you spend your hard-earned quid on.  *15 Best Bluetooth Speakers For Computer in 2022 — tested in the SpeakersMag workshop.* ## 1. Audioengine A2+ Wireless Now, these little beauties are a bit of a staple in my recommendations. I've had a pair of the wired A2+ in my second office setup for ages, and the wireless version is just as good, but with added convenience. They're compact, built like tanks, and the sound for their size is just phenomenal. Honestly, you wouldn't believe the bass they can kick out from such small enclosures. They use a Class AB amplifier, which is a nice touch – gives them a bit more warmth than some of the Class D stuff out there. And the aptX Bluetooth means you're getting a decent quality wireless stream, not that rubbish basic Bluetooth most cheap speakers use. You can also connect via USB or 3.5mm, which is handy if you've got an older machine or want to bypass your computer's potentially noisy DAC. I use them mainly for listening to FLACs while I'm doing admin. The clarity is superb; you can pick out individual instruments easily. They're not going to fill a huge room, but for a desktop setup, they're spot on. They're a bit dearer than some on this list, usually around the £250-£300 mark, but you're paying for quality that'll last you years. * **Pros:** Excellent sound quality for the size, multiple input options (Bluetooth, USB, 3.5mm), solid build, stylish looks, integrated DAC. * **Cons:** Can be a bit pricey for some budgets, no remote control included with the wireless version (only the wired model). * **Who it's for:** Anyone who wants premium desktop sound without taking up too much space, music lovers, design-conscious users. * **Who should skip it:** Those on a very tight budget, people who need speakers to fill a very large room, users who prefer a boomier, less refined bass. ## 2. Kanto YU2 / YU2 Powered Kanto is another brand I've got a lot of time for. Their YU2 speakers are similar in concept to the Audioengine A2+, small powered bookshelf speakers designed for desktop use. They're a bit more budget-friendly, typically around £200-£250, and still pack a serious punch. The YU2s come with a built-in DAC via a USB input, which is a great feature for computer audio, bypassing your computer's often mediocre sound card. They also have a 3.5mm input, but no native Bluetooth on the standard YU2. If you want Bluetooth, you need the 'YU2 Powered' version, which usually adds about £50-£70 to the price, making it directly competitive with the Audioengine A2+ Wireless. Personally, I'd recommend going for the Bluetooth model if you can, just for the flexibility. Sound-wise, they're very clean and articulate. They might not have the sheer weight in the lower mids that the A2+ does, but they're wonderfully balanced. Ideal for acoustic music, jazz, or detailed electronic tracks. They also have a subwoofer output, which is brilliant if you decide later you want a bit more oomph for films or gaming. I actually paired a set of these with a small Elac subwoofer for a client once, and it sounded surprisingly good in a small office. * **Pros:** Clear, detailed sound, USB DAC built-in, compact size, subwoofer output, good value (especially the non-Bluetooth version). * **Cons:** Standard YU2 lacks Bluetooth (requires upgrade), can sound a bit thin without a subwoofer for bass-heavy music. * **Who it's for:** Desktop users who value clarity and detail, those who might want to add a subwoofer later, users wanting a USB DAC. * **Who should skip it:** Bass heads who don't want to buy a separate subwoofer, those needing Bluetooth as standard on the cheapest model. ## 3. Edifier R1280DBs / R1280DB Edifier has been making waves for years, offering cracking sound quality for not a lot of money. The R1280DBs are an absolute bargain, often found for under £150, sometimes even closer to £100 if you shop around. And for that price, you get an awful lot. These are a bit bigger than the Audioengine or Kanto speakers, so make sure you've got the desk space. But that extra size allows for a bit more air movement and a fuller sound. They come with optical, coaxial, and two RCA inputs, plus Bluetooth. That's a whole heap of connectivity for the price! The 'DBs' model also has a subwoofer output, which is a big improvement over the standard DB version if you think you'll want to add some rumble down the line. I had a pair of the older R1280DBs in my spare bedroom setup for a while, hooked up to a small smart TV. For films, they were excellent. The bass is surprisingly deep without being boomy, and the treble is clear without being harsh. They come with a remote, which is a nice touch too, especially if you're using them for more than just a desktop. They're not as refined as the Audioengine A2+ at higher volumes, but for general listening, they're fantastic value. * **Pros:** Incredible value for money, multiple inputs (Bluetooth, Optical, Coax, RCA), good bass for the price, remote control, subwoofer output (DBs model). * **Cons:** Larger footprint, not as refined as more expensive options at high volumes, sound can be a bit forward. * **Who it's for:** Budget-conscious users, anyone needing lots of input options, those who appreciate a full, warm sound, gamers. * **Who should skip it:** Those with limited desk space, purists seeking absolute neutrality, users who demand premium build materials. ## 4. Creative T100 If you're after something really compact and neat, the Creative T100 could be just the ticket. They're tiny, designed to disappear on your desk, and usually cost around the £90-£120 mark. Creative has been in the computer audio game for yonks, and they know what they're doing with desktop speakers. They're a 2.0 system, so no separate subwoofer, but they do a decent job of producing a balanced sound for their size. Bluetooth 5.0 is included, along with optical and a 3.5mm auxiliary input. I appreciate the included remote control here, as it makes adjusting volume or switching sources a doddle. I set these up for my nephew's gaming PC a while back, and he was chuffed to bits with them. Much better than his monitor speakers, obviously. Don't expect room-shaking bass, but for general music, YouTube, and gaming at moderate volumes, they're perfectly capable. The sound is clear and voices come through well. They punch above their weight for sure, especially considering the price and footprint. * **Pros:** Very compact size, affordable, Bluetooth 5.0, optical and aux inputs, included remote, good clarity for size. * **Cons:** Limited bass extension, not suitable for filling large rooms, can sound a bit thin at higher volumes. * **Who it's for:** Users with minimal desk space, those on a strict budget, students, people who prioritise clear dialogue over deep bass. * **Who should skip it:** Bass fanatics, users who need to fill a large living room, those seeking audiophile-grade sound quality. ## 5. Klipsch R-41PM / R-51PM Okay, so we're stepping up a bit in price and size here, but if you've got the room and the budget, these Klipsch powered monitors are absolutely cracking. The R-41PM are usually around £350-£400, and the R-51PM a bit more, at £450-£500. They're proper hi-fi speakers that happen to have all the connectivity you need for a computer. Klipsch speakers are known for their lively, dynamic sound, largely thanks to their horn-loaded tweeters. They're incredibly efficient, so they get loud without much effort, and the soundstage is impressively wide. They come with Bluetooth, USB, optical, RCA, and even a phono input for a turntable! That's versatility for ya. They also have a subwoofer output, which is always welcome. I've got a pair of the R-51PMs hooked up to my main desktop in the workshop, and they make work a pleasure. The detail is fantastic, and they handle everything from heavy rock to classical with ease. They're a proper step up in sound quality compared to the smaller options, though you do need a bit more space for them. If you take your music seriously and your computer is your primary source, these are well worth considering. * **Pros:** Powerful, dynamic, detailed sound; wide soundstage; extensive connectivity (Bluetooth, USB, Optical, RCA, Phono); subwoofer output; remote control. * **Cons:** Larger footprint, higher price point, the horn-loaded sound isn't for everyone (can be a bit forward). * **Who it's for:** Serious music listeners, gamers who want immersive sound, users with larger desk spaces, those with multiple audio sources. * **Who should skip it:** Users with very limited desk space, those on a strict budget, people who prefer a more laid-back sound signature. ## 6. Bose Companion 2 Series III Bose has always had a knack for making small speakers sound bigger than they are, and the Companion 2 Series III are a classic example. They've been around for ages, and for good reason. They're simple, relatively compact, and consistently deliver a pleasing sound for general computer use. Expect to pay around £100-£120 for a set. They're primarily an analogue speaker set, connecting via a 3.5mm jack, but I've included them here because they're often chosen for computer setups where Bluetooth isn't the absolute top priority but good sound is. If you want Bluetooth, you'll need a separate adapter, which is a bit of a faff, but they're good enough to warrant it for some. I used a pair of these myself for years before I started getting into more serious gear. They just work. Bass is surprisingly present without being overpowering, and the mids are clear enough for dialogue and vocals. They don't offer the same detail or soundstage as something like the Audioengine A2+, but for everyday listening, they're a significant upgrade over built-in laptop speakers. Volume control and a headphone jack are conveniently located on the front of one speaker. * **Pros:** Compact, decent sound for the size and price, simple setup, robust build, headphone jack. * **Cons:** No built-in Bluetooth (requires adapter), limited connectivity options, sound isn't as refined as some rivals. * **Who it's for:** Users who want a simple, reliable upgrade from built-in speakers, those who value convenience and a compact design, everyday computer users. * **Who should skip it:** Users who demand built-in Bluetooth, audiophiles, those needing deep bass or extensive connectivity. ## 7. Logitech Z407 Logitech is a name everyone knows for computer peripherals, and their Z407 2.1 system offers a lot of punch for around £100-£130. This is for those of you who want some serious bass from your computer setup, as it comes with a dedicated subwoofer. It features Bluetooth, USB, and a 3.5mm input, so you're well covered for connectivity. The neat trick here is the wireless control dial, which you can place anywhere on your desk. It controls volume, bass, and source selection. Very handy! I've seen these pop up in student digs quite a bit; they're popular for gaming and watching films where a bit of rumble is appreciated. The two satellite speakers are quite small, so they don't take up much room, but they rely heavily on the subwoofer for the lower frequencies. If you like your music to have a good beat and your games to have explosive sound effects, these will do the job. Just don't expect the most nuanced sound. It's more about impact than fidelity. * **Pros:** Powerful bass from the subwoofer, versatile connectivity (Bluetooth, USB, 3.5mm), convenient wireless control dial, good for gaming and movies. * **Cons:** Satellite speakers lack mid-range presence, sound can be a bit boomy, not the most refined for music listening. * **Who it's for:** Gamers, film watchers, bass lovers, users who want a simple 2.1 system with flexible control. * **Who should skip it:** Audiophiles, those who want a neutral and detailed sound, users with limited space for a subwoofer. ## 8. Presonus Eris E3.5BT / Eris E4.5BT Presonus makes professional studio monitors, and their Eris E3.5BT and E4.5BT speakers bring that studio heritage to your desktop. They're designed for accuracy and neutrality, which is a real treat if you're into music production, podcasts, or just want to hear music exactly as it was recorded. The E3.5BT usually goes for about £130-£160, and the E4.5BT for £200-£240. These are true active monitors, meaning each speaker has its own amplifier, and they feature separate drivers for bass/mids and treble. They come with Bluetooth, balanced TRS inputs (which is great for reducing noise if you have a pro-audio interface), and RCA/3.5mm inputs. The E4.5BT, with its larger woofer, offers a bit more bass extension and overall presence. I often use the E4.5BTs in my secondary mixing setup when I'm trying to check a mix on more consumer-friendly speakers after using my main reference monitors. They're incredibly revealing. You'll hear imperfections in recordings, but you'll also hear all the glorious detail. They've got front-mounted headphone jacks and volume controls, which is practical. If you want a taste of "pro audio" without breaking the bank, these are solid. * **Pros:** Accurate, neutral sound; excellent detail; versatile inputs (including balanced TRS); front-mounted controls; good for critical listening and music production. * **Cons:** Studio monitor sound isn't for everyone (can be less "fun"), larger than some desktop options, bass isn't as impactful as a dedicated subwoofer. * **Who it's for:** Music producers, DJs, critical listeners, podcasters, anyone who values accuracy and detail over a coloured sound. * **Who should skip it:** Those who prefer a more consumer-friendly, bass-heavy sound, users with very limited desk space. ## 9. Dali Spektor 1 / Zensor 1 (with Bluetooth amp) This is a bit of a curveball, but bear with me. If you *really* care about sound quality and have the space, pairing passive bookshelf speakers with a compact Bluetooth amplifier can be an incredible solution. Speakers like the Dali Spektor 1s (around £150-£200) or the older, but still brilliant, Zensor 1s (can find used for £100-£150) are proper hi-fi speakers. Then you pair them with a small Class D amplifier with built-in Bluetooth. Something like an Arylic A50+ (around £150-£200) or a Fosi Audio BT30D Pro (around £100-£150) would work a treat. This setup gives you far better sound than any all-in-one powered speaker, simply because you're using genuinely good passive drivers. I've got a setup similar to this in my living room, using a pair of Q Acoustics 3020s and a small SMSL amp. The separation, the detail, the sheer musicality is on a different level. Yes, it's more cables and two separate boxes, but the upgrade in sound is massive. You get deep, controlled bass, glorious mids, and sparkling highs. You'll need more space, and it's more of a traditional hi-fi approach, but for discerning ears, it's the best option here. * **Pros:** Best possible sound quality for the money, flexibility to upgrade components later, genuine hi-fi soundstage and detail, controlled bass. * **Cons:** More complex setup (two separate boxes), more cables, takes up more space, generally higher overall cost. * **Who it's for:** Audiophiles, serious music lovers, users with larger desk or room space, those who want future upgradeability. * **Who should skip it:** Users who want simplicity and minimal cables, those with very limited desk space, budget-conscious buyers looking for an all-in-one. ## Comparison Table: Bluetooth Computer Speakers | Model | Type | Price (approx. £) | Connectivity | Key Feature | Who it's For | SpeakersMag Rating | | :---------------------- | :-------------------- | :-------------------- | :--------------------------------- | :-------------------------- | :-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | :------------------ | | Audioengine A2+ Wireless | Active 2.0 | 250-300 | BT (aptX), USB, 3.5mm | Premium sound in compact size | Music lovers, design-conscious | 9/10 | | Kanto YU2 Powered | Active 2.0 | 250-320 | BT, USB, 3.5mm | Clear detail, subwoofer out | Detail-focused users, potential sub-adders | 8.5/10 | | Edifier R1280DBs | Active 2.0 | 100-150 | BT, Optical, Coax, RCA | Amazing value, lots of inputs | Budget buyers, multi-source users | 8/10 | | Creative T100 | Active 2.0 | 90-120 | BT 5.0, Optical, 3.5mm | Ultra-compact, good clarity | Small desks, basic users | 7.5/10 | | Klipsch R-41PM | Active 2.0 | 350-400 | BT, USB, Optical, RCA, Phono | Dynamic sound, versatile | Serious music/gaming, larger desks | 9/10 | | Bose Companion 2 III | Active 2.0 | 100-120 | 3.5mm | Simple, reliable, compact | Basic upgrade, convenience | 7/10 | | Logitech Z407 | Active 2.1 | 100-130 | BT, USB, 3.5mm | Powerful bass, wireless dial | Gamers, film watchers, bass heads | 7.5/10 | | Presonus Eris E3.5BT | Active 2.0 | 130-160 | BT, TRS, RCA, 3.5mm | Accurate, neutral studio sound | Producers, critical listeners | 8.5/10 | | Dali Spektor 1 + Amp | Passive 2.0 | 250-400 (combined) | BT (via amp), RCA, Optical | True hi-fi sound, upgradeable | Audiophiles, big sound seekers | 9.5/10 | ## Key Features to Look For ### Connectivity * **Bluetooth:** Obviously, you're here for Bluetooth speakers! Look for newer versions like Bluetooth 5.0 or aptX support for better quality and stability. AptX is a codec that allows for near CD-quality sound over Bluetooth, provided both your speaker and your computer (or phone) support it. It makes a noticeable difference. * **USB Audio:** Many powered speakers now include a USB input. This is fantastic because it bypasses your computer's internal sound card and uses the speaker's built-in DAC (Digital-to-Analogue Converter), which is almost always superior. Cleaner sound, less noise. * **3.5mm Auxiliary (AUX):** The classic headphone jack. Still useful for older devices or if you just want a simple wired connection without fuss. * **Optical (TOSLINK) / Coaxial:** Great for connecting directly to a TV or a sound card that has these outputs. Digital, so less chance of interference. * **RCA:** Common analogue inputs, usually found on larger active speakers or for connecting things like CD players or turntables. * **Subwoofer Output:** If you think you might want more bass down the line, a dedicated subwoofer output is a godsend. It means the speakers handle the mids and highs, and a separate sub takes care of the low-end rumble, often resulting in a cleaner, more impactful sound. ### Sound Quality & Design * **Driver Size:** Generally, larger woofers (the big cones) can produce deeper bass. However, good engineering can make smaller drivers perform wonders, like with the Audioengine A2+. * **Amplification:** 'Active' speakers have the amplifier built-in, meaning fewer boxes. 'Passive' speakers need a separate amplifier. Most computer speakers are active for simplicity. Class AB amps often sound a bit warmer, while Class D can be more efficient and compact. * **Frequency Response:** This tells you the range of sounds the speaker can produce. A wider range (e.g., 50Hz to 20kHz) is generally better, but take these figures with a pinch of salt; the *quality* of the sound at those frequencies is more important than the numbers alone. * **Build Quality:** Cheap plastic will often vibrate or resonate, distorting the sound. MDF (Medium-Density Fibreboard) enclosures are common and generally good. Look for solid, well-damped cabinets. ### Ergonomics & Features * **Size:** This is crucial for a computer setup. Measure your available desk space! Some of the larger speakers I mentioned will simply not fit on a cramped desk. * **Front Controls / Remote:** Easy access to volume, input switching, and tone controls can make a big difference to everyday usability. A remote is a bonus. * **Headphone Jack:** Convenient if you often switch between speakers and headphones. * **Tone Controls:** Some speakers offer bass and treble adjustments. These can be useful for tweaking the sound to your room or your preference, but don't rely on them to fix fundamentally bad speakers. ## Setting Up Your Speakers for Best Sound Even the best speakers will sound pants if you don't set them up properly. Trust me, I've seen some shockers. 1. **Placement is Key:** Don't just plonk them anywhere. Try to form an equilateral triangle between yourself and the two speakers. Your ears should be level with the tweeters (the small drivers that handle the high notes). Pull them away from walls a bit if you can, especially if they have rear ports – this stops bass from getting too boomy. 2. **Angle Them In (Toe-in):** Angle the speakers slightly inwards so they're pointing roughly at your head. This usually improves the stereo imaging and detail. 3. **Speaker Stands/Isolation:** If your desk vibrates, the sound will suffer. Decoupling the speakers from your desk using small speaker stands, foam pads, or even just some rubber feet can make a surprising difference. It stops the desk from becoming part of the sound system, which it shouldn't be! 4. **Cable Management:** While Bluetooth reduces some cables, you'll still have power and interconnects. Keep them tidy. Not just for aesthetics, but to avoid tangles and potential interference. ## Troubleshooting Common Bluetooth Speaker Issues Bluetooth, for all its convenience, can be a bit flaky sometimes. Don't fret, most issues are easily fixed. * **No Sound:** First, check the volume on both your computer *and* the speakers. Make sure the correct output device is selected in your computer's sound settings. Is the speaker on the right input source? Rookie error, but it happens to the best of us. * **Dropped Connection / Stuttering:** Move the speakers closer to your computer. Try to clear any obstructions between them. Other wireless devices (Wi-Fi routers, microwaves) can cause interference, so try moving them further away. Sometimes, simply unpairing and re-pairing the speaker can fix it. * **Poor Sound Quality:** Ensure your computer isn't trying to use the speaker for both audio *and* a microphone simultaneously (common on Windows). This often forces a lower-quality Bluetooth profile. Check if your speaker and computer support aptX for better quality. If you have the option, try a wired connection (USB or 3.5mm) to rule out Bluetooth as the culprit. * **Latency (Sound Delay):** This is more common with older Bluetooth versions or when watching video. AptX Low Latency can help, but it needs to be supported by both devices. A wired connection will always have less latency. ## FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered ### Q: Do I need a separate amplifier for these speakers? A: Most of the recommendations here are 'active' or 'powered' speakers, meaning they have the amplifier built right into one of the speaker cabinets. So no, you don't need a separate amp. The only exception on this list is my curveball suggestion of passive speakers like the Dali Spektor 1s, which *do* require a separate compact amplifier. ### Q: Is Bluetooth good enough for music quality? A: It depends. Standard Bluetooth (SBC codec) can be a bit lossy, especially with complex music. However, with modern Bluetooth versions (like 5.0) and better codecs like aptX, aptX HD, or LDAC, the quality is much, much closer to a wired connection. For casual listening, it's more than good enough. For critical listening, a good USB or optical wired connection will always be superior. ### Q: Can I connect these speakers to my TV as well? A: Absolutely, many of them have multiple input options beyond just Bluetooth. Look for optical (TOSLINK), RCA, or 3.5mm inputs. The Edifier R1280DBs, for example, are excellent for this, offering optical and coaxial. The Klipsch R-41PM/R-51PM are also brilliant for TV sound with their optical input. ### Q: What's the difference between 2.0 and 2.1 speakers? A: A 2.0 system means you have two speakers (left and right), with each trying to handle the full range of frequencies. A 2.1 system adds a separate subwoofer to handle the very low bass frequencies. This can take the strain off the main speakers, allowing them to focus on the mids and highs, often resulting in a punchier, more impactful sound, especially for films and games. The Logitech Z407 is a good example of a 2.1 system. ## Final Word There you have it then, a good look at some of the best Bluetooth speakers you can park next to your computer. Honestly, don't put up with those dreadful built-in speakers any longer. Even a relatively modest investment can completely transform your daily computing experience, whether you're listening to music, watching a flick, or getting stuck into a game. My personal top recommendation for most people would be the Audioengine A2+ Wireless. They just hit that sweet spot of size, sound quality, and connectivity. But if your budget is tighter, the Edifier R1280DBs offer incredible value. And if you're chasing true hi-fi on your desktop, consider the passive speaker and separate amp route – it's a bit more effort, but the payoff is huge. Whatever you choose, just remember that good sound isn't a luxury; it's a proper enhancement to your day. Go on, treat your ears. You deserve it.