Best Computer Speakers

Logitech Z-2300 (Around $100)

Best 2.1 computer speakers. If you're more interested in music than 3D gaming, or you just don't have the space for so many speaker units, reviews say the Logitech Z-2300 is the best 2.1 computer speaker system (two 40-watt satellites plus a 120-watt subwoofer). Reviews say the Logitech PC speakers are nice and loud, without losing clarity or becoming distorted at higher volume levels. The Logitech speakers come with an adapter so you can also use them with game consoles and DVD players.

Altec Lansing VS2321 ( Around $40)

Budget 2.1 computer speakers. Among cheaper 2.1 speakers, the Altec Lansing VS2321 receives excellent reviews, and many experts say they simply could not find any faults for the price. Although the Altec Lansing speakers won't get loud enough to pump music through more than one room, reviews do not note any distortion at the upper reaches of its volume. One of the 6-watt satellite speakers contains a volume knob and headphone jack, plus a second input for plugging in an MP3 player. There's a 20-watt subwoofer.

Logitech Z-5500 (Around $275)

Best 5.1 computer speakers. Reviews are unanimous about the power and sound quality of the Logitech Z-5500 PC speakers. A 5.1 system consists of five satellite speakers plus a subwoofer for true surround sound. The 505-watt Logitech Z-5500 speaker system is best for gamers and movie buffs who crave ambient 3D sound. Every review we found comments on the Logitech Z-5500's speaker's disturb-the-neighborhood, room-shaking volume capacity and bass control. You'll need a sound card that supports Dolby 5.1 or higher to take full advantage of the Z-5500 computer speakers, which can also be used with game consoles, stereo equipment and portable audio players.


Altec Lansing VS3151 (Around $75)

Budget 5.1 computer speakers. While they don't come anywhere close to the Logitech Z-5500 PC speakers, reviewers say the Altec Lansing VS3151 computer speaker system is a decent way to get cheap surround sound. Each satellite gets 5-watts (compared to the Z-5500 speaker's 62-watt satellites), and the subwoofer gets 20-watts (compared to the Z-5500's 188-watts). While they don't get very loud, and bass is a little lacking, reviews say output from the Altec Lansing speakers is clear and well defined, with no distortion.