If you are looking for the best computer speakers under $100, the most important things to consider are the power capacity, connectivity, and frequency response. I’ve summarized my favorite products below based on these features. Keep reading if you want to know more about why these features are so important.
These days, people are more inclined to use computers for a variety of online transactions. It follows, then, that they seek to upgrade their different stock computer accessories to improve their device further.
One of the essential accessories for any computer system is the speaker. While you can purchase a generic brand to allow you to listen to different audio outputs, it doesn’t guarantee you full maximization of your computer’s sound card capacity. Buying a pair of top-quality speakers permits you to establish an efficient equipment system that can allow you long hours of listening to music, join virtual meetings, and play your favorite online games.
Yet finding the best pair of computer speakers can be daunting when you’re introduced to so many options, all of them promoting themselves as the best. To help you with your quest, I decided to conduct in-depth research on the different computer speakers available. I made it even easier for you by pinpointing the best computer speakers under $100. You can use my consolidated list to identify the ones that best work for you and your needs. I also included a brief buying guide to help you further in your search.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
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Best Overall  |
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Favorite  |
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Best Retro Appearance  |
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The Best Computer Speakers Under $100
Creative Labs 51MF1610AA002 GigaWorks T20 Series II – Best Overall
Key Features
- Speaker Type: Subwoofer
- Item Weight: 1 Pound
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Channels: 2.0
- Power: 28W
- Dimensions: 9.05 x 3.46 x 5.63 in.
- Inputs: 3.5mm line-in, AUX
- Warranty: 1-year limited
- Precision-tuned two-way speaker design with 28 watts RMS
- Woven glass fiber cone driver
- Cloth dome tweeter and BasXPort technology that eliminates the need for a subwoofer
- It has convenient front access to volume, bass, treble, and input jacks.
- It is compatible with many audio sources including TV’s and computers.
One of the most popular computer speaker brands is the Creative Labs GigaWorks T20 Series II. This computer speaker set is a much-improved version of its predecessor, the GigaWorks T20, which is also an award-winning product from the same company.
The T20 II is a two-way speaker set that uses BasXPort technology. This integrated design permits you to enjoy the full-range sound without the need to connect the speakers to a subwoofer. This set offers a well-defined bass, as well.
Nonetheless, this set isn’t perfect. One of the problems associated with this model is its short wires. This is compensated, however, with the set’s RMS power handling capacity of 28 Watts. The result is the set’s capability to produce warm, balanced audio output. The T20 Series II doesn’t have Bluetooth connectivity, but the company has a T30 version equipped with Bluetooth capability.
| Pros • Vibrant, extended bass • 28-Watt RMS capacity • Warm and balanced audio output | Cons • Short wires |
Bose Companion 2 Series III Multimedia Speakers Favorite
Key Features
- Speaker Type: Multimedia
- Item Weight: 1800 Grams
- Surround Sound Channel Configuration: 2.0
- Channels: 2.0
- Power: 22W
- Dimensions: 7.5 x 3.1 x 5.9 in.
- Inputs: 3.5mm line-in, AUX
- Warranty: 1-year limited
- High-quality audio performance, with clear sound at any volume
- Play an additional device just connect to the auxiliary input
- Volume control/headphone jack on the front of the right speaker
- Operating compatibility: Mac, Windows XP
A popular option, the Bose Companion 2 Series III Multimedia Speakers offer delicate notes and overall smooth audio output. Thousands of consumers prefer these speakers because they provide satisfying audio feedback with solid bass even without connecting them to a subwoofer. Producing natural sounds, this set offers a wide range of frequencies. Possible distortion occurs, however, when the volume level is at maximum.
The Bose Companion 2 Series III Multimedia Speakers are plug-and-play accessories. This means that you only have to connect them to your computer without the need for any kind of driver software to make it work. Hence, it provides easy installation and can also be connected to a variety of electronic devices. So, you can also connect this set to your TV and have incredible sound effects when playing your favorite game or watching a thriller movie.
This speaker set can also be simultaneously connected to two devices by way of its auxiliary input. Its headphone jack is located in the front and volume knobs, further cementing its user-friendly attribute.
| Pros • Easy to operate • User-friendly installation • Capacity for simultaneous connections • Near-field speakersSuperb bass | Cons • Possible distortion during maximum volume levels |
Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers – Best Retro Appearance
Key Features
- Speaker Type: Bookshelf
- Speaker Size: 4 Inches
- Control Method: Remote
- Channels: 2.0
- Power: 42W
- Dimensions: 5.75 x 9.5 x 7 in.
- 2x AUX input – Connect to two devices with 3.5mm headphone or dual RCA output simultaneously without the need for constant switching.
- 13mm silk dome tweeter and 4-inch full-range unit for studio sound quality
- Includes remote control for volume. You can only control bass and treble with knobs located on the speaker.
- Encased in a high-quality MDF wood and wood effect vinyl serves for a classic style
- Speakers come with a 2 year warranty in the USA and Canada.
The Edifier R1280T is a set of powered bookshelf speakers. These speakers have a sleek, retro look coupled with an impeccable capacity to do their job. This set provides top-quality audio output. It has powerful bass reproduction, as well, due to its 4-inch drivers and flared bass reflex.
A favorite among audiophiles, this speaker set is an excellent companion, especially when you want your audio to sound detailed and crisp.
This speaker set is equipped with two auxiliary ports, allowing you to simultaneously connect a couple of devices. These speakers are incorporated with 4-inch, full-range models and 13-mm silk dome tweeters that aid in the production of solid, natural sound. Providing you with convenience, this set comes with a remote control that lets you manage the product from afar.
However, as impeccable as this unit aims to be, a few customers think that this set’s bass and treble controls do not effectively alter the output.
| Pros • Dual auxiliary ports connect two devices simultaneously • Impeccable audio quality • Retro appearance | Cons • Treble and bass controls are a bit unresponsive. |
MicroLab Chairman B77BT Active Powered Bookshelf Speakers – Best for Power Handling Capacity
Key Features
- Speaker Type: Subwoofer
- Item Weight: 5.4 Kilograms
- Speaker Maximum Output Power: 70 Watts
- Channels: 2.0
- Power: 64W
- Dimensions: 6 x 8.7 x 10.5 in.
- Inputs: RCA/AUX/Coaxial connections
- Warranty: 2-year warranty
If you’re into Bluetooth technology and want Bluetooth speakers that give you that delicious oomph, check out the MicroLab Chairman B77BT Active Powered Bookshelf Speakers. This powerful system is the most preferred Bluetooth speaker set in the current audio market, and it is predicted to hold that crown for many years more.
Alongside its ecstatic Bluetooth capability is its tremendous capacity to handle power. It has an RMS power handling of 64 Watts that can reach a peak of 70 Watts. Beautifully and intricately designed, this speaker set is also both compact and sleek. Befitting any modern-day office—or studio, if you will—these speakers are encased in wooden baskets that are carefully covered with leather to give off that classy look.
While a few customers report problems about the presence of noise and distortion during high volume levels, you can easily prevent that from occurring by simply lowering the set’s volume level a bit. You can also compensate for that by directly adjusting your computer’s volume control to find that sweet, perfect spot.
| Pros • 4.0 Bluetooth connectivity • 64 Watts RMS power handling capacity • 70 Watts peak power capacity • Impeccable, classy design | Cons • Possible distortion during high volume levels |
Cyber Acoustics Bluetooth Speakers with LED Lights – Best Budget Computer Speakers
Key Features
- Speaker Type: Speaker system
- Speaker Size: 5 inches
- Item Weight: 9 Pounds
- Channels: 2.1
- Power: 16W
- Dimensions: 10.0 x 2.8 x 5.5 in. (satellite), 7.2 x 10.4 x 7.5 in. (subwoofer)
- Add some flair to your audio experience with the integrated LED lights. Choose from green, blue, red, purple, yellow, light blue, white, continuous color changing, or “off” for no lights.
- Stream audio via Bluetooth by pairing any bluetooth compatible device like your phone or computer.
- Quick connect with a 3.5mm audio cable.
- All the controls are conveniently located in the same place (on the subwoofer), so you can control: Bluetooth, LED color lighting selection, power on/off, master volume control, treble and bass control, headphone jack, 3.5mm aux / RCA input connections.
- Includes a 1-year manufacturer warranty.
- AC power 110V only.
The Cyber Acoustics CA-SP34BT is a budget-friendly alternative. Many people assume that price always coincides with quality. This is a huge misconception, as attested by this gem. Agreeably, it is rare to find an efficient speaker without splurging on cash. However, the Cyber Acoustics CA-SP34BT speaker contains many features that can adequately compete with a lot of its counterparts. This set is recommended even for classroom and group events. They can be used during projector presentations and so forth.
This speaker set has a classy design. Its subwoofer is carefully contained in a wooden encasement, enabling it to offer fantastic acoustics along with decent bass. Its high and mid notes are incredibly crisp and distinct. You can even amp up its volume since this speaker set astonishingly carries no distortion even at such lofty levels—an ecstatic surprise considering that many expensive competitors fail in this regard.
One problem often reported with this system is its LED lights. It appears that this set’s LED lighting doesn’t last long—a minor issue, of course, as many of us do not need this capability to enjoy top-quality sounds. The great thing about this speaker set is its adept capacity to provide solid, undistorted output. This set also has an RMS power handling capacity of 30 Watts, an excellent feature to have for a unit that’s less than fifty bucks.
| Pros • Wooden encasement for subwoofers • Fantastic audio quality • Beautiful design • Affordable price | Cons • LED lights do not last long |
Cyber Acoustics High Power 2.1 Subwoofer Speaker System – Best for Deep Bass Capability
Key Features
- Speaker Type: Subwoofer
- Speaker Size: 5.25 Inches
- Item Weight: 10 Pounds
- Power: 80 watts peak power and 40 watts RMS; Source: Corded-Electric
- Acoustically optimized internal power supply provides room-filling, impressive sound quality with power
- Control pod with on/off, master volume, and bass volume. Includes a 3.5mm aux input, for a cell phone, tablet, MP3 player, gaming system, plus a headphone jack.
- The subwoofer is side-firing, providing very deep bass.
- 2” dual satellite drivers
- Comes with removable cloth grills for the 2 speakers for two choices of style
- Includes a 1-year manufacturer warranty.
- AC power 110V only.
- Compatible with laptops,gaming systems, desktop computers, tablets, smartphones, MP3 players, and DVD players with a 3.5mm audio output or headphone output jack.
For a little over fifty dollars, you can also purchase this other Cyber Acoustics unit. The Cyber Acoustics CA-3810 can handle 40 Watts of RMS power and 80 Watts of maximum power. This feature allows this speaker system to have the capacity to produce top-quality audio output with the added aid of its subwoofers. Provided with a remote control, this set can be managed and adjusted from afar. Its remote pad allows you effortless power of and on of the system, turn up or down the volume, and increase or decrease the bass. This speaker set has a 3.5-mm auxiliary input, as well, that permits you to connect it to a variety of devices.
The Cyber Acoustics CA-3810 is designed with side-firing subwoofers. Measuring 5.25 inches, these enable the system to produce deep bass. This set’s simple, modern-day appearance includes sporting easy-to-remove cloth grilles, allowing you better cleaning and adjustment. An excellent system for any space, this set provides impeccable audio output.
| Pros • It comes with a remote pad • Easy-to-install cloth grilles • Deep bass • Excellent sound quality • Beautiful design | Cons • Possible minor defects |
Creative Pebble 2.0 – Best for Small Spaces
Key Features
- Speaker Type: Desktop, Personal
- Item Weight: 645 Grams
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Connects to computer or laptop with a single USB cable – no power adapter needed
- Far-field driver technology and passive radiators offer excellent audio and enhanced bass reproduction
- 45-degree, elevated drivers help project audio and offer a more immersive listening experience
- Modern and stylish aesthetics
- Perfect for any modern home, office, and workspaces.
- Easy access volume control
- Front-facing controls for convenient access to make adjustments
- Frequency Response 100 Hz (Hertz) – 17 kHz (Kilohertz)
If you’re looking for a set of speakers that do not take up a lot of space, you should check out the last one on my list, the Creative Pebble 2.0 USB-Powered Desktop Speakers. This speaker set merely weighs 645 grams and is perfect for personal, average use. With a highly compact design, this set only uses 4.4 inches of your table’s surface. They can be directly plugged into your computer via the USB port. They are at a 45-degree angle to better provide you with more effective listening.
This set has a well-balanced smoothness, especially in the high and low notes. There is also no evident distortion during maximum volume levels. An incredibly portable speaker set, this unit doesn’t need any separate power plug as its USB also enables it to be powered by your computer.
| Pros • Portable • Less desk space needed • Decent sound quality • No distortion during high volume levels • Affordable • Compact design • No need for a separate power plug • USB connectivity | Cons • Audio quality tends to diminish when listened to from afar. |
The Best Computer Speakers Under $100 Buying Guide
Here are several tips for you to remember when purchasing a set of computer speakers under $100:
Number of Pieces Included in the Set
Most computer speaker systems are made up of two speakers. They are typically packaged with separate subwoofers, as well. However, some manufacturers offer compact speakers that already have incorporated subwoofers in them. Depending on your preference, you can either opt for one with separate subwoofers provided or the other that already has subwoofers integrated into it.
Power Capacity
Power handling capacity is an essential element to take note of. A higher wattage tells you the amount of power that your speaker can withstand. This feature is also related to your set’s capacity to produce quality music, although audio quality doesn’t entirely rely on this factor.
Frequency Response
Speakers are capable of various frequency response ranges. The wider the frequency response rate of a unit, the more capable it is to produce clear and distinct high, mid, and low notes.
Connectivity
Since you are looking for a computer speaker to be used explicitly for your device, it is essential to pinpoint your chosen unit’s different connectivity capabilities. Bluetooth and USB connectivity are both crucial, especially when you have modern-day equipment systems that typically use these two technologies for various connections.
Size and Design
Likewise, the size and design of your speaker set can be deciding factors. A compact speaker set tells you about its durability. Its size allows you to estimate the space you will need to allot on your desk.
The Best Computer Speakers Under $100 FAQs
How can I connect my speakers to the computer if they only have RCA inputs?
A lot of manufacturers include RCA-to-3.5mm jack adapters or cables in the package. However, you can also purchase this connector separately. Checking the kinds of connections that both your computer and speaker set have is an essential undertaking since it lets you determine their compatibility.
Do I need to buy an amplifier to connect my speakers?
No. Many of these speakers are active ones, which means that they can power themselves up without a receiver’s need. Some of these computer speakers are passive ones, but they are designed to be directly connected to your computer, which provides them with their power needs. Using an amplifier with these computer speakers may only damage audio output, possibly creating unnecessary distortion, especially when you turn up the volume level.
Where should I put the subwoofer?
There must be a considerable distance between your speaker and your subwoofer. A lot of manufacturers provide manuals that provide specific instructions of the distance length you should allot.
The Verdict
To sum up my findings, here are the top computer speakers under $100. Note, however, that these sets are fast-dwindling from the shelves. If you plan to purchase a set, do it now.
- Creative Labs 51MF1610AA002 GigaWorks T20 Series II – Best Overall
- Bose Companion 2 Series III Multimedia Speakers – Consumers’ Favorite
- Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers – Best Retro Appearance
- MicroLab Chairman B77BT Active Powered Bookshelf Speakers – Best for Power Handling Capacity
- Cyber Acoustics Bluetooth Speakers with LED Lights – Best Budget Computer Speakers
- Cyber Acoustics High Power 2.1 Subwoofer Speaker System – Best for Deep Bass Capability
- Creative Pebble 2.0 – Best for Small Spaces