9 Best Computer Speakers under 50 Dollars (Reviews for 2022)

Computer speakers are designed to enhance the sound from your laptop. As online streaming possibilities advance exponentially, so do our listening requirements. Listening to your playlists or fully immersing in your favorite movies and games at the level of fidelity they were intended requires connecting your laptop to quality speakers, regardless of budget. Fortunately, there are several manufacturers providing attractive low-cost solutions capable of producing high-quality sound. While they won’t unseat higher end models, they will amp up your audio experience. Here are our picks of the 9 best computer speakers under 50 dollars, followed by a handy guide to help you choose the right one.

IN A HURRY?  HERE ARE OUR TOP PICKS…

			Max output	Audio channels	Connectivity
1.	Creative Pebble		16 watts	2.0	USB	View
2.	Cyber Acoustics CA-3602FFP		62 watts	2.1	AC	View
3.	Sanyun SW102		5Wx2	2.0	USB	View
4.	Logitech S120		4.4 watts	2.0	AC	View
5.	Logitech Z323		60 watts	2.1	AC	View
6.	GOgroove Mini Sound Bar		12 watts	N/A	USB	View
7.	Logitech Z313		25 watts	2.1	AC	View
8.	Logitech Z207		10 watts	2.0	Bluetooth/USB/AC	View
9.	Blue Snowball Ice		10 watts	2.0	AC/USB	View

Best Computer Speakers under 50 Dollar Reviews  

1. Creative Pebble 2.0

Sale

Creative Pebble 2.0 USB-Powered Desktop Speakers with Far-Field Drivers and Passive Radiators for PCs and Laptops (White)

• Single Usb Cable For Computers And Laptops | Enjoy A Hassle-Free Audio Experience With A Single Usb Cable Without The Need For A Power Adapter
• Far-Field Drivers And Passive Radiators | Custom-Tuned Far-Field Driver Solution With Rear Facing Passive Radiators For Excellent Audio And Enhanced Bass Reproduction
• 45° Elevated Drivers | For Enhanced Audio Projection And An Immersive Personal Listening Experience
• Modern And Stylish Aesthetics | Perfect For Any Modern Homes, Offices And Workspaces
• German (Publication Language)

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Last update on 2022-06-27 at 08:01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Creative Pebble 2.0 USB speakers are uniquely shaped and deliver a surprisingly solid audio experience for less than $50.

They just look cool. Available in black or white, these spherical speakers are sliced off at an angle exposing the drivers on the front panels.

They’re angled upward to align with your ears, which is rare and yet makes a dramatic difference to audio clarity. The bottom panel of each speaker has a circular rubber base to keep them from moving around on your desk.

You’ll find passive radiators in the back panels which enhance bass response. The front-firing 2-inch drivers combine for a modest 4.4 watts of power.

The Creative Pebble has a USB connection that’s regulated only for power. To get audio from your laptop requires connecting the hardwired 3.5mm audio cable. But the audio in, USB and connection to the left speaker creates quite a bit of cable clutter.

There’s a power switch/volume knob located on the right speaker. Beyond that, there’s no additional controls. At moderate volumes, the speakers convey some kind of bass. All in all, you get a substantially louder sound for what makes a notable upgrade over your laptop speakers.

2. Cyber Acoustics CA-3602FFP 2.1

Cyber Acoustics CA-3602FFP 2.1 Speaker Sound System with Subwoofer and Control Pod - Great for Music, Movies, Multimedia Pcs, Macs, Laptops and Gaming Systems

• ROOM FILLING SOUND: Driven by an acoustically optimized internal power supply, this subwoofer speaker system delivers 62 watts peak power and 30 watts RMS. With this kind of power you can expect amazing sound at any volume level, filling any large room in the home or office.
• EASY TO USE: The convenient control pod gives you full control over your sound system. Adjust the volume, turn it on and off, or use the headphone output jack for those private listening moments. With easy access to the 3.5mm aux input, you can quickly connect your cell phone, tablet, MP3 player, or gaming system to really pump up the sound. Plus bass volume control allows you to fine tune the richness of the sound just the way you like it.
• RICH AUDIO: The ported 5.25” subwoofer delivers some of the deepest bass available, powerful for any audio experience, along with the satellites using twin 2” drivers deliver crisp, clean, optimized sound.
• CONTEMPORARY DESIGN: Created to look great sitting next to today's flat panel monitors, the piano black finish on the satellites will blend right in. Features power cable is 5 feet, speaker to speaker cable is separates up to 11 feet, speaker to subwoofer cable is 6 feet, input cable is 6 feet from control pod and control pod cable is 6 feet
• QUALITY GUARANTEED: Includes 1 year hassle free manufacturer warranty. AC power 110V only ; Wattage (Satellites): Each speaker: 6 watts/ch @ 4 ohm @ 10% THD

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Last update on 2022-06-26 at 23:56 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Cyber Acoustics CA-3602 speaker system will get the job done. While we wouldn’t call the sound quality an audiophile’s dream, we also wouldn’t write it off as a plasticy hunk of junk.

The looks can be polarizing. It seems that a lot was sacrificed in durability to hit the under $50 price point. This is a 2.1 system, which means you get two satellite speakers and a subwoofer.

The subwoofer has a traditional design with cutouts for the drivers. The satellites are eight inches tall and reminiscent of the type of external computer speakers from the 90s. they’re made of flimsy plastic with exposed drivers making the whole thing feel fragile.

It’s obvious that Cyber focused all their efforts on sound, which is where it belongs. But the audio experience does take a hit. While the speakers are a passable, you get a bit of distortion if you crank the volume up too high.

A single audio cable is shared by both satellite speakers that ends in a 3.5mm audio jack, which plugs into the back of the subwoofer.

For input, a single cable comes out of the subwoofer, terminating in an audio control dial. It controls the volume, bass, power and even features headphone out and aux-in jacks.

3. Sanyun SW102 2.0

Sale

Sanyun SW102 Computer Speakers, 5Wx2, Deep Bass in Small Body, Stereo 2.0 USB Powered 3.5mm Aux Multimedia Speakers, Built-in Bottom Bass Radiators, PC Laptop Desktop Speakers, Black

• 【SIMPLE ELLIPTICAL STRUCTURE】Metal and high quality plastics make it steady without vibrating sound. Black and silvery color and the blue oval lamp ring make speakers show the beauty of metal curved lines. Adopted the low-voltage digital power, the maximum power can be 5W x 2, ensure the sound clear, bright, rounded and thick. Small Body(3.94x2.76.2.95inch) with powerful audio.
• 【SUPERB SOUND QUALITY】Outstanding bass quality, compared to other small speakers. Built-in bass diaphragm, closed Cavity and Low Frequency Aid Design to provide strong bass performance. In order to make up for the lack of bass of the Mini 2.0 speakers, the unique acoustic resonator structure using the enclosed low-frequency aid design makes the sound more penetrating and powerful. Note: Restricted to the small volume, bass effect still can’t compare with big speakers and professional subwoofer.
• 【360 DEGREE STEREO SOUND】2.0 Channel stereo speakers, enjoy the best stereo effect need to separate 2 speakers, for example, the two speakers are separated from the distance of 1 meter, the two speakers and people should be 1 meters distance, then the two speakers and people is an equilateral triangle, such a position, you will hear the best stereo effect.
• 【WIDE APPLICABILITY】High quality cable and independent drive-by-wire design, stable sound transmission and convenient control. 3.5mm audio interface, suitable for most music players, just plug into your device to listen to your music at full volume. USB power supply, can be directly plugged into the computer USB port to take power, can also connect most of the 5V charger power supply.
• 【1 YEARS WARRANTY, PLUG AND PLAY】1-Years Manufacturer's Warranty and Unconditional 30 days Money-back Guarantee. Simple operation, just plug the USB cable into your device or the charger and plug the 3.5mm jack into your audio device, the Sanyun speakers will fill the room with your music, movies or games; independent wire control design, more convenient to use.

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Last update on 2022-06-27 at 08:01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Sanyun SW102 computer speakers may come in a diminutive size, but the sound quality for the asking price will blow you away.

The design is slick. On the base of both speakers is a blue ring of LED lights which helps set a peaceful ambiance to your workspace. The setup comes complete with a base diaphragm for that boom sound we enjoy in bass-heavy music.

Due to the SW102’s design, you get 360 degrees of sound for a more immersive aural experience than you get with a lot of speakers at this price point. Each speaker emits 5 watts of sound.

You won’t find any controls to speak of on the housing itself. But there’s an in-line volume control. Even though these are USB powered speakers, you’ll need to connect the 3.5mm jack to your laptop if you want to fill your space with music.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t support Bluetooth connection, so you don’t have the option of going wireless. A one-meter cable connects both speakers, which gives you enough slack to position the speakers almost any way you want. Reflective of the price, there’s also no headphone jack.

The Sanyun SW102 computer speakers do a great job of reemphasizing the fact that you don’t have to fork over a lot of money to enjoy good sound quality from your laptop.

4. Logitech S120 2.0

Logitech S120 2.0 Stereo Speakers, Black

• 2.0 stereo speaker system
• Compact size that delivers high quality audio without using too much space
• Response Bandwidth: 50Hz 20KHz
• 2.2 Watt, nominal Output Power
• Convenient headphone jack for private listening, built in knob for easily adjusting volume

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Last update on 2022-06-27 at 08:01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

When it comes to shopping for computer speakers on a tight budget, the Logitech S120 is among the best for two good reasons: high-quality sound and a durable design.

Logitech is well-versed at creating super high-quality products like the company’s external gaming mice and wireless headsets. If you’re looking for durability, something that can last for years and years. These are the speakers for you.

They’re the perfect size for any desktop, so it’s easy to find a place to put them. Each speaker has three rubber pads to prevent them from sliding around while you work, and they come with a built-in stand.

If you’re looking for generic speakers that can get the job done, the S120 over delivers on performance relative to how much you’re paying. The 2.0 speaker system ensures every sound from your laptop is crisp and clear with a 50Hz o 20kHz frequency response.

You’ll find all the controls for the power and volume on the right speaker. To connect the speaker system to your laptop, the S120 comes with a thick two-pronged power cord and cable. You’ll find a 3.5mm headphone jack on the left side of the right speaker.

5. Logitech Z323 2.1

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Logitech Speaker System Z323 with Subwoofer

• Immersive Logitech 360-degree sound for crystal-clear, room-filling audio
• Ported, down-firing subwoofer delivers deep, rich bass. Satellites(height x width x depth): 8.3 x 3.4 x 4.5 inches
• RCA and 3.5 millimeter inputs for easy connections to gaming console, DVD player or iPod
• Integrated headphone jack for private listening. Subwoofer - 18W. Total watts (RMS) - 30W
• 30 Watt (RMS) of power produces big, bold full-range sound

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Last update on 2022-06-27 at 08:01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Z323 is yet another great computer speaker from Logitech that you can pick up for less than 50 dollars.

With 60 watts of peak power, it uses a dual-driver speaker design. Each satellite speaker has a glossy face and uncovered tweeters that give them a sleek look.

There’s a second tweeter on the back of each speaker to project sound evenly in every direction according to Logitech. The bass unit sits on four legs with a four-inch down-firing subwoofer.

The Z323 has a strong bass output to deliver room-filling sound that helps it live up to its 360-degree room-filling sound promise. At about the half-volume mark, they deliver a fairly consistent audio level. But at that level, there’s an indistinct boomy quality to sound.

A power knob on the right satellite doubles as the system’s master volume control, while the bass volume knob can be found on the back of the subwoofer.

The right satellite speaker also has a pair of 3.5mm ports on the side, one for headphones and the other for connecting an axillary device.

And each satellite comes with its own attached connecting wire to plug into the back of the subwoofer. Plus, there’s an extra pair of RCAs included on the back of the sub.

6. GOgroove Mini Sound Bar

GOgroove Computer Speaker Mini Soundbar - USB Powered PC Sound Bar with Easy Setup Wired AUX, Stereo Audio, Microphone Port, Volume Control Knob, Under Monitor Design for Desktop (Black)

• SLEEK SOUNDBAR AUDIO FOR YOUR COMPUTER – The UBR speaker uses wired connections for universal compatibility and features a low-profile soundbar design to free up desk space and reduce cable clutter
• 12 WATT AUDIO PEAK – Upgrade your underperforming built-in speakers to the UBR soundbar, featuring angled drivers that optimize sound projection to produce mids & highs for full-range stereo audio
• SIMPLE SETUP IN MINUTES, ANYONE CAN DO IT – Plug and play installation (no software needed) with USB cable for power, 3.5mm AUX cables for audio input and optional 3.5mm microphone pass-through
• HEADPHONE & MICROPHONE PORT ENABLED – The UBR extends the ports from your computer so that you can connect 3.5mm AUX headsets directly to UBR when you want private listening or late-night gaming chats
• CONVENIENT VOLUME KNOB – The sleek Power & Volume dial is within hand's reach and features a glowing LED light that completes a premium computer speaker design | 3 Year Manufacturer Warranty

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Last update on 2022-06-27 at 08:01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

A soundbar has always been considered a simple way to upgrade your TV. The GOgroove is a computer soundbar you can use to enhance the sound of your laptop’s built-in speakers.

It has a very compact size that’s a lot smaller than soundbars made for televisions with a length that’s just a little wider than the average 15-inch laptop.

And talk about attention to detail, the drivers are angled so that the sound is projected right at you. It has a plastic casing with an aluminum grille in front. 

The sound you get is a lot warmer (not to mention louder) than what you get from your typical laptop speakers. The lows and mids are a lot more present and vocals come through more clearly.

There’s no noticeable distortion when you moderate the volume level. But that’s until you turn up the volume, which produces a harsher sound. Otherwise, the audio quality is acceptable for the price.

You can easily power the speakers via the power/volume knob. The LED indicator light surrounding the knob when the speakers are on looks attractive in a dark environment.

Beyond the grille near the bottom of the sound bar are two ports: one for a microphone and the other a 3.5mm headphone port.

Unfortunately, the GOgroove computer sound bar doesn’t feature any Bluetooth connectivity option. You must connect the USB cable and 3.5mm aux cable to your laptop to use it.

7. Logitech Z313 2.1

Can a full range speaker system really be any good at this price? The Logitech Z313 says yes. While your laptop’s speakers can get you by, they can’t offer the full and satisfying range of sound this super cool little system has to offer.

The two satellite speakers and subwoofer each have their own built-in amplifiers for 25 watts of total power. The satellites are small enough to ensure they’ll fit almost anywhere.

When positioned well, they can deliver excellent stereo imaging. The bass speaker is larger but still compact. Despite the small size, it delivers good bass response.

You get a complete listening experience with bright detailed highs, warm realistic vocals and fairly deep bass so that no matter the genre of music you like to listen to, you’ll be impressed with the amazing sound quality you get for the price.  

You’ll find the power switch and volume control on the simple control pod that comes with the setup. While there is no separate control for the bass, this is not uncommon for 2.1 speaker systems at this price point. You can change the level of bass by how you decide to position the speaker.

Setup is pretty easy. Just connect the satellites to the subwoofer. Then plug the subwoofer into the headphone jack and you’re good to go. Unfortunately, there is no Bluetooth connection option.

8. Logitech Z207 2.0

At the time of this writing, the Logitech Z207 2.0 speaker system is at a discount on Amazon for less than $50. So, we decided to include it on the list because unlike many speaker systems at this price range, it offers Bluetooth connectivity, which comes in quite handy.

Each speaker is constructed entirely of plastic (including the attached stands). It comes with a matte black finish, and you can also get in white. Both enclosures have an uncovered speaker driver to handle the mid and high tones, and one passive radiator for the bass.

The speakers are capable of delivering 10 watts of power. There’s no distortion when you turn up the volume. Sound is well balanced with clear high, mids and surprisingly deep bass for a system without a subwoofer.

You’ll find the power/volume knob and Bluetooth button on the right speaker clearly designated as the control unit.

Designed with the presupposition that you will likely connect these speakers to more devices than just your laptop, the Z207 offers both a wired and wireless connection.

The speakers are hardwired together. Just plug one end of the 3.55mm audio cable into the AUX jack on the back of the speaker and the other end into your laptop.

The initial pairing process with Bluetooth takes less than a minute. Press the Bluetooth button on the control speaker for pairing mode, then look for the Z207 to appear on the device you want to connect to.

9. Redragon GS520 Anvil RGB 2.0

The Redragon GS520 Anvil RGB 2.0 Desktop speaker system immediately pulls you in with its avant-garde approach to speaker design. It has a decidedly modern look with muted gamery accents.

The speakers are tall yet compact and entirely made of hard plastic with a beveled aesthetic. Covering the drivers is a metal mesh grille with an L-shaped RGB strip by the grille. The base of the speakers is made of foam padding.

The total RMS output is 10 watts, which is achieved when the speakers are connected to a 5V/2A power source. They need a minimum of 5V/1A input power to work.

Both speakers work well to create an immersive 2D listening experience with noticeably clear bass. But the sound quality does start to lose its edge when the volume is pushed above the halfway mark like most speakers in this price range.

There are three front-facing control buttons on the right speaker including a touch control button on top used to change the LED lighting effects.

The three control buttons light up but don’t change color. Two buttons are designated for changing the volume while the other is reserved for powering off the RGB lighting.

The speakers use a dual connection: USB-A for power and a 3.5mm connection for audio. Setup is rather straightforward. You may here some static that goes away during this process.

The wires connecting the speakers are a bit on the short side and may take some adjusting for the best setup.

Last update on 2022-06-27 at 08:01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Computer Speakers under 50 Dollars Buying Guide 

When it’s time to upgrade your laptop speakers, even a $50 set can be a significant improvement over the ones that come with your laptop (if you know where to look).

As you can see, computer speakers under 50 dollars are on the small side. But they’ve come a long way in recent years to deliver great sound.

The market is awash with countless choices making it easy to get overwhelmed at all the different options available to you. Here are the key factors you’ll want to keep in mind to ensure you make the best choice.

Wired or Wireless

The best choice depends on what you’re doing. For instance, if you’re gaming, you’ll want a wired set of speakers. Bluetooth options, even with software enhancements to improve latency still have a bad habit of creating a de-sync between the audio and visual, which creates an unwanted dissonance when gaming. But for just listening to music, a wireless option is just fine. To split the difference, there are wired computer speakers with a Bluetooth connectivity option at this price range.

Connectivity

You can connect computer speakers through a 3.5mm plug, USB and Bluetooth. The best speakers will give you all three options. Again, wired speakers will give you the best sound quality most of the time because there’s less signal interference. But Bluetooth devices are catching up.

Sound Quality

Sound quality is subjective so its hard to be prescriptive here. But take it from us, just because a pair of computer speakers come from a reputable company doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll like the sound it produces.

Ideally, if you can listen to speakers before you buy, that would be the best option. But there are a lot of things that can improve how a speaker sounds, like audio drivers, equalizers and a dedicated sound card. But good speakers will sound good even with default settings.

Form Factor

Consider your desk space situation. This may not seem that important until you start positioning your new computer speakers within your workspace. Maybe a minimalist speaker solution would work best. Perhaps you travel often with your laptop so something portable that can fit into your laptop bag is a better solution. There are some elegant ones on our list designed to enhance the look of your workspace.

2.0, 2.1 or 5.1?

Puzzled by these numbers? This is a reference to the audio channel. Turns out they relate to the speaker configuration:

• 2.0 means you’re getting two speakers
• 2.1 includes a subwoofer to the two speakers
• 5.1 gives you a total of five satellite speakers plus one subwoofer

At this price, you’re looking at mostly 2.0 and maybe 2.1 computer speaker setups with smaller portable form factors.

AC or USB Powered

These are the two different ways that external speakers get their power.

• AC powered computer speakers need to be connected to a power outlet to work. This makes them less travel friendly.
• USB powered speakers only require a connection to your device’s USB port. Naturally, they’re excellent for commutes and travel, provided that your laptop or device has the battery life to support it.

But since USBs don’t provide as much power as a direct connection to a power source, these types of speakers have a lower volume and less bass output compared to AC powered computer speakers.

Controls

Some speaker systems come with the controls directly on the speaker itself, which can be convenient not to mention intuitive to use.

Others require you to dive into the speaker’s software to make any adjustments to audio output. Balancing between the manual controls and speaker software helps you better control sound definition.

FAQ

What kind of sound should I expect from $50 computer speakers?

You definitely won’t get the audiophile quality you’d expect from high-end speakers. But you’ll be amazed at just how much sound you can get from small, inexpensive speakers.

With a budget of fifty dollars, you’ll want to prioritize speakers specifically designed for computers. They’ll provide much better sound than trying to connect your stereo speakers to your laptop.

Many computer speakers at this price range are designed and developed to enhance low-end and bass sounds for better sound quality relative to their compact size.

Why do some computer speakers have a buzzing sound?

There are a few reasons why some speakers in this segment produce a buzzing sound. Most of the time it’s caused by radio frequency interference from other devices. Grounding issues with the speaker’s electrical supply. And cord damage to name a few.

To fix this issue, try first moving the speakers around. Then move other electronic devices away from the speakers. Finally, try positioning the cords until the buzzing goes away.

If none of these solutions work, connect a pair of headphones to your laptop or device to see if the buzzing persists. If it does, then you know that its an issue with your laptop or device’s sound card.

How loud can computer speakers get?

While the computer speakers on this list won’t produce concert hall levels of sound, you’ll be surprised at how loud they can get. As long as you’re within range and not using them to host a house party, they get loud enough to be aurally satisfying.

The maximum voltage that can be supplied to the speakers, along with amperage determines its wattage and therefore, volume. Most speakers will tell you what the maximum wattage is – the higher the wattage, the louder the speakers.

What’s a good number of watts in this range?

Around 50 watts. It depends mostly on the efficiency of the speakers you choose and the music, games and movies you like to play through them.  

How do I get the best sound from my computer speakers?

Buying the right speakers for your situation is of course the first step. How you position the speakers around you does a great deal to enhance sound quality. Eliminating signal interference tends to improve the sound quality of speakers. To that end you can purchase high-quality audio cables to enhance your setup.

Sale

Creative Pebble 2.0 USB-Powered Desktop Speakers with Far-Field Drivers and Passive Radiators for PCs and Laptops (White)

• Single Usb Cable For Computers And Laptops | Enjoy A Hassle-Free Audio Experience With A Single Usb Cable Without The Need For A Power Adapter
• Far-Field Drivers And Passive Radiators | Custom-Tuned Far-Field Driver Solution With Rear Facing Passive Radiators For Excellent Audio And Enhanced Bass Reproduction
• 45° Elevated Drivers | For Enhanced Audio Projection And An Immersive Personal Listening Experience
• Modern And Stylish Aesthetics | Perfect For Any Modern Homes, Offices And Workspaces
• German (Publication Language)

Check Availability

Last update on 2022-06-27 at 08:01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Final Thoughts

So, what have we learned about the best computer speakers under 50 dollars? Cheaper prices tend to allow for more experimentation. And you might be surprised at how much you can actually get. Our top choice is the Creative Pebble 2.0. While not the most powerful speakers on the list, the sound quality is amazing. And they just look fantastic on any desktop. Our second choice is the Cyber Acoustics CA-3602 speakers. It’s a 2.1 speaker system which means you get a bass speaker. While the durability is questionable, the sound quality is acceptable for a quick replacement. And finally, our third choice is the Sanyun SW102. These are cool little speakers, but don’t let the size full you about the amount of sound they can kick out.