Ben grew up on a healthy diet of Nintendo, Xbox, and PC Games. He founded High Ground Gaming in 2014.
Reviewed by Benjamin Barr
Sound is as important as graphics when it comes to bringing your game to life. Surround sound, in particular, helps create the ambiance hardcore gamers strive for. And yes, that extends to competitive titles too — picking up on every little noise your opponents make will help you react that much faster. But rich tones and immersive audio are only possible with the best gaming speakers.
On this page, we check out the 20 best TV and PC gaming speakers for a little boom boom and pow pow. We’ve got a fine mix of the best speakers for gaming that can be set up at the desk or with your TV — there’s a little something for everyone. We’ll also weigh all the variables and go into why you need an awesome set.
Zoom Out: A Comparison Table of the Top 20 Best Gaming Speakers
Here is our comparison chart of the best speakers for gaming, with all 20 options listed in price ascending order. If you want to know more, keep scrolling to view our Zoom In section below.
| Image | Speaker | Type | System | Connectivity | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Cyber Acoustics CA-3602A | PC | 2 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer | Wired |  |
 | Cyber Acoustics Bluetooth CA-3712BT | PC, TV | 2 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer | Wireless | |
 | Logitech Z313 Speaker System | PC | 2 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer | Wired or Wireless | |
 | TaoTronics Gaming Computer Speaker | PC | 1 Soundbar | Wired or Wireless | |
 | Creative GigaWorks T40 Series II | PC, TV | 2 Speakers | Wired | |
 | Bose Companion 2 Series III Multimedia Speakers | PC | 2 Speakers | Wired | |
 | Razer Nommo Chroma | PC | 2 Speakers | Wired | |
 | Creative Sound BlasterX Kratos S5 | PC | 2 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer | Wired | |
 | Genius SW-G2.1 2000 | PC | 2 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer | Wired | |
 | Harman Kardon Soundsticks III | PC, TV | 2 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer | Wired | |
 | Logitech G560 Lightsync | PC | 2 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer | Wired or Wireless | |
 | Razer Leviathan | PC, TV | 1 Soundbar, 1 Subwoofer | Wired | |
 | Yamaha NS-SP1800BL | TV | 5 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer | Wired | |
 | Logitech Z906 | PC, TV | 5 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer | Wired | |
 | Klipsch R-15PM Powered Monitor | PC, TV | 2 Speakers | Wired or Wireless | |
 | Logitech X-540 | PC | 5 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer | Wired | |
 | Paradigm Cinema 100 CT | TV | 5 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer | Wired | |
 | Klipsch R-28PF | TV | 2 Speakers | Wireless | |
 | Bose Acoustimass 10 Series V | TV | 5 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer | Wired | |
 | Samsung HW-Q90R | TV | 2 Speakers, 1 Soundbar, 1 Subwoofer | Wireless | |
Zoom In: A Closer Look at the Top 20 Best Speakers for Gaming
Let’s get into it, shall we? Here are the 20 best computer gaming speakers and console gaming speakers guaranteed to knock your socks off. Keep in mind some of these are designed for only TV or PC, while other models work well with both. We’ve labeled each product accordingly.
With this package from Cyber Acoustics, you get a three-piece speaker system that includes a 5.25-inch subwoofer and two 2-inch satellite speakers. This compact speaker system package packs quite the punch and is ideal for gaming.
At a reasonable price of roughly $50, you’ll get excellent surround sound without breaking the budget. While this won’t give you the best sound possible, you’ll have the best speakers for gaming available in this price range.
This system features 6-watt speakers and a one-year warranty. Plus, it comes with an MP3 cradle, so it’s a multi-functional system.
High Ground View:
- Type: PC
- System: 2 Speakers & 1 Subwoofer
- Connectivity: Wired
2. Cyber Acoustics Bluetooth Ready CA-3712BT
LED lights for less, anyone? Cyber Acoustics offers an alternative to the expensive LED speaker options from Logitech and Razer. These are versatile speakers that are Bluetooth compatible, and they provide a quick connect option via a 3.5mm audio cable, as well. Whether it’s party time or gaming/movie night, these speakers are an excellent way to add some pizzazz to the whole affair!
High Ground View:
- Type: PC or TV
- System: 2 Speakers & 1 Subwoofer
- Connectivity: Wireless
3. Logitech Z313 Speaker System
The Logitech Z313 PC Gaming Speakers are another great budget option. Like with Cyber Acoustics, you get a reliable 3-piece system that provides balanced sound.
For a bit more money, you can upgrade to the four-piece package, which includes a Bluetooth audio adapter and enables you to connect your smartphone and other Bluetooth ready devices to the speakers as well.
High Ground View:
- Type: PC
- System: 2 Speakers & 1 Subwoofer
- Connectivity: Wired or Wireless
4. TaoTronics Gaming Computer Speaker
Who would guess that this unassuming black sound bar is such a game-changer? It’s not until you plug it in that you truly get to experience the TaoTronics Gaming Speaker.
Boot it up, and you’ll notice two things. One is that the speaker blooms to life with vibrant RGB lights guaranteed to elevate your gaming setup. And more importantly, you’ll notice the sound. Sweet, powerful, rich tones that promise to immerse you like never before.
This is thanks to the proprietary 7W drivers buried deep within the soundbar. They’ll help you experience your favorite titles in vivid aural detail, using a standard 3.5mm aux cable or Bluetooth for wireless convenience.
High Ground View:
- Type: PC
- System: 1 Soundbar
- Connectivity: Wired or Wireless
5. Creative GigaWorks T40 Series II
Creative has been in the audio game for a long time now. While their specialty was originally audio cards, they’ve recently branched out into accessories and peripherals.
The Creative T40 Series II Speakers each have a 3-driver configuration (mid-range/tweeter/mid-range). This configuration and the yellow-black color style produces a tall and sporty looking speaker.
Creative offers a T20 Series II Speaker System for about $30 less, but these T40’s are about 3.5 inches taller and offer a fuller range of sound.
In addition, these crossover speakers can be paired with your computer, TV, or smartphone. Pretty neat, right?
Side note: We have a hands-on review of the Creative T50 Wireless Speakers if you are interested in Creative’s very best.
High Ground View:
Type: PC or TV
System: 2 Speakers
Connectivity: Wired
6. Bose Companion 2 Series III Multimedia Speakers
If you’re seeking an entry-level set of PC gaming speakers, the Bose Companion 2 is the friend you need. These speakers deliver high-quality audio performance with crystal clear sound, booming bases, and richy rich tones. They’re compatible with PC and Mac operating systems and are guaranteed to boost your gaming immersion and performance. Overall, an excellent offering by a reputable company.
High Ground View:
- Type: PC or Mac
- System: 2 Speakers
- Connectivity: Wired
Moving up the price ladder, we have these sleek speakers from Razer. The base model is all black with no lighting. For about $50 more, you can get the Chroma option to add some more color to your desk area.
With the power offered from this set, you’ll be blown away by how well you’re able to distinguish each sound coming from your PC game. You’ll swear you invested so much more.
The Razer Nommo’s will give you delightful sound immersion for the money. This is all thanks to the built-in woven glass fiber drivers and rear-facing bass ports, which provide a vast field of sound. The best part of all this? You can enjoy these speakers on all major OS, including Windows and Mac.
Most users speak to the gorgeous aesthetic as being the highlight of the Nommo speakers. Whatever your reasons for snagging a set, you’re sure to enjoy excellent immersion and a significant competitive edge.
High Ground View:
- Type: PC & Mac
- System: 2 Speakers
- Connectivity: Wired
8. Creative Sound BlasterX Kratos S5
These beauties are part of Creative’s Sound Blaster line. Featuring customizable RGB lighting (16 million colors) and Creative’s attention to detail (and superb audio technology), these speakers outshine most of the competition.
Fun fact— Creative has built these speakers entirely out of wood, as opposed to the plastic you find in most speakers in the PC category. Audiophiles say wood is better at providing richer and fuller sound and has better resonance dampening.
High Ground View:
- Type: PC
- System: 2 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer
- Connectivity: Wired
Another great option on our list of the best speakers for PC gaming is the Genius SW-G2. This speaker set is not only aesthetically pleasing, it’s also very reasonably priced when you consider all the features.
What can you expect? This set boasts dual input jacks for PC, TV, DVD, and Gaming Devices, but we recommend them primarily for PCs. They are also available in three different colors to fit your gaming environment.
The MDF wooden cabinet subwoofer will give you fantastic bass sounds and is powered by 45 watts, along with the separate control panel. For under $100, this is a great set for your gaming setup.
High Ground View:
- Type: PC
- System: 2 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer
- Connectivity: Wired
10. Harman Kardon Soundsticks III
Talk about crystal clear audio!
The Harmon Kardon Soundsticks III is a PC or TV speaker set that consists of 2 speakers and a downfiring subwoofer. Moreover, the speakers are compatible with all devices that support a stereo minijack output. What’s that mean for you? Insane bass performance, as well as thunderous highs and whisper-quiet lows no matter which device you game on!
High Ground View:
- Type: PC or TV
- System: 2 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer
- Connectivity: Wired
11. Logitech G560 Lightsync PC Gaming Speakers
The cutting edge in PC gaming speakers is Logitech’s G560. Logitech’s LIGHTSYNC technology synchronizes RGB lighting to correspond with what’s taking place on your monitor. Basically, with these puppies, you can turn your music into a light show.
Logitech has gone all-in on its new LIGHTSYNC. They’ve got mechanical keyboards, gaming mice, headsets, and now these speakers outfitted with LIGHTSYNC tech. If you want to light up your desk like a Christmas tree, it’s going to cost you a pretty penny. This technology is brand new, so you’ll pay a premium… but you’ll be getting one of the best computer speakers in return.
Another winning feature of this speaker set is Logitech’s Easy-Switch. This enables users to switch between four devices quickly. So if you’ve got music on your phone or tablet that isn’t on your desktop, no problem, seamlessly hop between your devices’ content. These versatile speakers accept 3.5mm, USB, and Bluetooth.
High Ground View:
- Type: PC
- System: 2 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer
- Connectivity: Wired or Wireless
12. Razer Leviathan Elite Gaming and Music Sound Bar
A sound bar from Razer? Indeed, there’s not much this company hasn’t dipped their toes in. Razer has noted the success of soundbars for television setups and developed their own offering.
This speaker is a crossover of sorts that can be used with your TV, at the desktop, or whatever other creative ideas you can come up with.
The Leviathan is a sleek peripheral (as is Razer’s custom) and projects rich and powerful sound considering its size.
The cool thing about this speaker is you can use it with a smartphone, television, or computer. A 5.1 channel surround sound device with Bluetooth version 4.0 compatibility, you can be sure to enjoy immersive sound with any media you so choose.
The sound bar comes with a dedicated subwoofer unit. 5.25 inches in size, this downward-firing subwoofer will not fail to give you a good shaking when that grenade goes off right behind you. An excellent choice.
High Ground View:
- Type: PC or TV
- System: 1 Soundbar, 1 Subwoofer
- Connectivity: Wired
13. Yamaha NS-SP1800BL 5.1-Channel Home Theater Speaker Set
Yamaha is a big name in the audio game, and they’ve put together one of the best TV speaker system packages out there right now.
The value you get for about $150 is pretty big – 5.1 channel surround sound, 2 front speakers, 2 rear speakers, 1 center speaker and then the big subwoofer. These combine to make a symphony of authentic and rich sound that makes watching movies, TV, and gaming better that ever.
The one significant weakness here is that this system is a standalone 5.1 channel package, so for optimal sound, you would also want to purchase a surround amplifier.
High Ground View:
- Type: TV
- System: 5 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer
- Connectivity: Wired
14. Logitech Z906 5.1 Surround Sound Speaker System
Did we hear you say you want the very best? In that case, Logitech’s Z906 Surround Sound Speakers could be your perfect match.
500 continuous watts of power — with a peak of 1,000 watts — is Zeus tier thunderous power. You’ve feel your bones a shakin’ with that deep bass cranked way up.
One great feature is the ability to connect up to six devices to these. This allows you to fluidly switch between audio sources such as TV, game console, computer, and more.
5.1 Dolby digital surround sound, THX-certified theatre quality sound, wireless remote, 1000 watt peak power, and all sorts of other goodies are included. If that sounds like a delicious bundle, that’s because it is.
High Ground View:
- Type: PC or TV
- System: 5 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer
- Connectivity: Wired
15. Klipsch R-15PM Powered Monitors Pair
If you really want to amp up your PC gaming set up, go with the Klipsch R-15PM’s. At $350, these powerful speakers are quite an investment, but you will certainly have one of the best gaming speakers money can buy.
As a pair, the Klipsch R-15PM set packs some serious power, with sufficient bass without a subwoofer and crisp and clean sound. Plus, its simple setup will get rid of those nasty cords, making it an attractive option for PC gaming that won’t get in the way of your playing.
These are Bluetooth ready — there’s no receiver needed. Digital optical, analog RCA, and USB inputs are also available. Overall, they are extremely versatile speakers that come with a remote and are easily expandable if you desire to tack on a subwoofer too.
High Ground View:
- Type: PC or TV
- System: 2 Speakers
- Connectivity: Wired or Wireless
16. Logitech X-540 5.1 Surround Sound Speaker System
The Logitech X-540 5.1 Surround Sound System may be the speaker system you were waiting for. That’s because you get 5 high-quality speakers, plus a large subwoofer, for ultimate bass blasting. In fact, many gamers consider Logitech’s lineup the best gaming speakers available.
These speakers will undoubtedly step up your gaming sound with enhanced quality and clarity. Moreover, the intensity from this speaker set will have you feeling like you are really in the thick of the game. This 5.1 speaker set has six speakers – four 2-inch satellite speakers, a 2-inch center speaker, and a 5.25-inch subwoofer. They’re truly the best PC gaming speakers offered by this manufacturer.
In addition, this speaker system has a Matrix Mode that can convert your two-channel sound games to surround sound – really heightening your gaming experience.
High Ground View:
- Type: PC
- System: 5 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer
- Connectivity: Wired
17. Paradigm Cinema 100 CT 5.1 Home Theater System
The Paradigm Cinema 100 CT 5.1 Home Theatre System is another top system for couch gaming. These are a great investment for the quality of sound you will get with your computer gaming system.
There are two 5.25-inch drivers on each speaker, along with a tweeter and 1600-watt amplifier. Plus, you get six bass drivers and eight passive radiators for crystal clear sound quality.
This speaker system will give you the ultimate in surround sound, as they’re the best speakers for gaming at a moderate price. Plus, the compact-sized speakers can be strategically placed throughout the room, making it less of an eyesore when you are not in play.
High Ground View:
- Type: TV
- System: 5 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer
- Connectivity: Wired
18. Klipsch R-28PF
Console gaming fans will be pleased with the performance of these formidable floor standing speakers. They will be even happier to know that the Klipsch quality can be had for under $1000 for a pair of these premium speakers.
Rated for 150 watts of power, maintaining crystal clear sound quality equates to an experience that goes beyond basic gaming duties and reaches into the holy land of audiophiles.
These speakers can expand from a simple 2 speaker set up to a full home theatre surround sound system. As Klipsch says, “You can buy happiness. It’s copper and black.”
High Ground View:
- Type: TV
- System: 2 Speakers
- Connectivity: Wireless
19. Bose Acoustimass 10 Series V Home Theater Speaker System
No list would be complete without a next-level entry from Bose. And with the Bose Acoustimass Speakers, you can’t go wrong. At $1000, it’s a serious investment, but it will deliver to give you the best PC gaming speakers for your computer set up.
These slim profile speakers can mount to the wall and have two high-performance drivers. Designed for larger rooms, the Bose Acoustimass will give you crystal clear sound to amplify gaming sounds, and as a 5.1 speaker system, you’ll be satisfied with the power and quality.
High Ground View:
- Type: TV
- System: 5 Speakers, 1 Subwoofer
- Connectivity: Wired
20. Samsung HW-Q90R
The Samsung HW-Q90R Speaker Set is an audiophile’s holy grail. Coming in hot at roughly 1330 watts of power, you’ll experience immersive and adaptive sound like you never have before.
This 17 piece set of 7.1 upward-firing speakers will blow that sound your way, giving you realistic action no matter where you’re playing. It also features Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for theatre-like quality and an insane competitive edge.
High Ground View:
- Type: TV
- System: 2 Speakers, 1 Soundbar, 1 Subwoofer
- Connectivity: Wireless
Gaming Speakers Guide Part I: Types of Gaming Speakers
There are two broad categories that gaming speakers fall under: those that used for console gaming on the TV and those used for PC gaming.
1. TV Speakers
There’s nothing like kicking back on the couch with the homies and playing some CoD or Halo. Unless you want to go full MLG squad and all wear headsets, your best bet is to get a nice set of speakers so you can all enjoy the game together and still communicate. A soundbar is a decent option here, but the sound quality is nearly as good as some of the surround sound options. A nice TV speaker system is generally going to be a lot more expensive than even the best computer gaming speakers.
2. PC Speakers
It used to be the case that a quality set of PC speakers were few and far between. Aside from the options from Creative and Logitech, there wasn’t much else on the market. That is no longer the case, and now you even see RGB LED lighting options from some of the popular peripheral brands like Razer and Logitech. There’s plenty of options at a wide array of price points.
Gaming Speakers Guide Part II: General Thoughts on Getting the Right Speakers for Gaming
An often overlooked component of the complete gaming experience is the audio element. While most of us prefer the tried and true headset or headphones to block out annoying noise, the truth is we aren’t always wearing them. Maybe they are uncomfortable, or we are playing a game with others in the living room, perhaps our poor ears need a break from the mighty clamp of the ear cups. Whatever the case, it is nice to have powerful speakers to maintain an immersive experience no matter how you choose to game.
Surround sound is one of the big wins you get when paying the extra money for a new set of speakers. In multiplayer games, most players rely strictly on quick reflexes to outwit their opponents. Add the ability to hear your opponent before they can hear you, and you’ve instantly got a massive edge over them.
With a purchase of any of these speaker systems, you’ll increase your surround sound’s power and quality with your desktop or laptop computer gaming set up. Getting the best PC gaming speakers that your budget allows will improve your overall experience when gaming and give you an edge in your gaming skills.
Plus, you’ll get to encounter every sound that your PC game is designed to deliver in heart-pumping accuracy – what more could you want?
What do you use to up your TV and PC gaming sound quality?
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