Sound from a computer can make a big difference, but when buying speakers it is easy to get lost in watts and marketing numbers. Let us go through what really matters and how to choose speakers that suit what you do with the computer.

Why external speakers at all

The built-in speakers in a monitor or laptop are small and sound flat. They are fine for system sounds and a video call, but weak for music, films or games. Even cheap external speakers are a noticeable step up.

2.0, 2.1 or more: how many units

The number before the dot is the count of main speakers, the number after the dot is the subwoofer (the bass speaker):

  • 2.0 are two speakers without a subwoofer. Clean, compact, perfectly enough for music and everyday use.
  • 2.1 adds a subwoofer for stronger bass. Games, films and bass-heavy music appreciate it.
  • 5.1 and more is surround sound for a home cinema. For a computer on a desk it is usually unnecessary and awkward to place.

For most people, quality 2.0 is a sensible choice, or 2.1 if you want proper bass.

Active versus passive

  • Active speakers have the amplifier built in; you just plug them into the mains and into the computer. This is the common and convenient choice for a PC.
  • Passive speakers need a separate amplifier. They offer better sound but are more expensive and complex. They make more sense for enthusiasts.

Connectivity: jack, USB, optical or Bluetooth

  • A 3.5 mm jack is the classic that works with every computer.
  • USB carries sound digitally and is handy if the computer has a noisy audio output.
  • An optical input (TOSLINK) carries sound as light, so it is completely immune to electrical interference and noise. You find it on better speakers and soundbars, and it is especially welcome when connecting to a TV or to a sound card with an optical output.
  • Bluetooth is conveniently wireless and handy if you also want to play sound from a phone. For gaming, prefer a cable; wireless adds a small delay.

The best speakers handle several methods at once.

Watts are not everything

Manufacturers like to lure you with high wattage, but power alone does not decide sound quality. What matters more is how the speaker sounds: whether it has clean highs, full mids and bass without booming. With sound, you have to listen, not just read the numbers on the box.

According to what you use the computer for

  • Music and everyday use: quality 2.0, for a clean and balanced sound.
  • Films and games: 2.1 with a subwoofer for proper bass and atmosphere.
  • Competitive gaming: many players prefer headphones or a headset, because you hear the direction of sound better (footsteps, shots) and do not disturb others. More in the article on smooth gaming.
  • A small desk: compact 2.0 or a soundbar under the monitor.

A few placement tips

Place the speakers at ear height and slightly angled towards you; they sound much better that way. The subwoofer can be on the floor, bass is not directional. And do not put the speakers right into a corner, bass tends to boom there.

Cannot decide, or want to tune the sound to your setup? Get in touch, we will advise based on what you use the computer for, and also help with choosing a monitor or a whole custom build.