The Best Computer and Desktop Speakers, Tested

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Even as monitors boast ever-faster refresh rates and laptops come loaded with all sorts of AI-powered features, one crucial factor has stayed stagnant (or even regressed) in personal computing: sound quality. Not all monitors come with built-in speakers , and the ones that do are often underwhelming. Laptop makers have likewise increasingly prioritized lightweight portability over powerful sound.

That’s why the right pair of computer speakers can go a long way in making the most of an eight-hour workday. The basic criteria for a pair of desktop speakers are simple — they have to sit on a desk, easily connect to a computer, and should ideally sound good . But the use cases are broad, from gaming and video editing to conferencing and listening to music, which is why the best desktop speakers will have versatile connectivity options and powerful sound in a tabletop-friendly package.

To find the best computer speakers, we started by testing options from well-regarded brands like Edifier and Cambridge Audio, evaluating them on sound quality, design, and features. Because computer speakers are expected to suit a wide variety of use cases, we also looked for options with plenty of connectivity options that could benefit gamers and content creators alike.

From audiophile-grade speakers to compact options for small desks, these are some of our favorite desktop and computer speakers to buy in 2026.

Quick Summary : With great sound quality and plenty of connectivity options, Edifier’s M90 speakers are among the most versatile you can buy. Pros: Plenty of ports, including HDMI eARC; big sound in a fairly compact package; easy to set up and use Cons: Limited color options; pricey

Edifier makes a wide range of desktop speakers and has quickly become one of the go-to brands for affordable hi-fi audio. The M90 speakers get almost everything right in a pair of desktop speakers; they have plenty of connectivity options, and, size-wise, they’re just big enough to fill a small room but small enough to not overwhelm a desk. As for the design, they’re stylish and sleek, but only available in black or white.

In terms of connections, the speakers feature inputs for optical, USB-C, HDMI, and Aux cables, and they also feature Bluetooth. There’s a remote, although everything from powering them on to switching inputs to changing the volume can be done with the multifunction knob on the back. The HDMI eARC port means they can be used as TV speakers, in place of a soundbar.

The M90 speakers are no slouches when it comes to sound quality. They have rich, detailed sound with clean highs and sufficiently deep bass for music, and they should also be well suited to gaming, movies, and more.

Quick Summary : Cambridge’s L/R speakers are among the most stylish and premium-feeling I have tested. They have excellent sound quality, too, but the price tag may put some off.