Best Computer Speakers Under $200 – (2023 Ultimate Guide)

Austin
| Last Updated: January 14, 2023

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To find the best computer speakers under $200 worthy of buying, we considered the sound quality and the overall functions to justify the price.

Just like our quest to find the best computer speakers under $100 - we have broken up this list into separate speaker configurations worthy of the price tag - 2.0 & 2.1 configurations along with a couple of soundbars.

Comparison of the Best Computer Speakers Under $200

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Bluetooth pairing compatible
  • Touch sensitve controls
  • Dedicated power amplifier
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  • Convenient front panel controls
  • Auto standby system
  • Bluetooth pairing compatible
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  • Improved bass technology
  • Easily connects to your computer
  • Power saving featires built-in
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  • Bluetooth wireless compatible
  • 4" bass & 13mm silk dome tweeter
  • 2 year warranty
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  • Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth
  • x2 Aux input ports
  • Easy to use convenent controls
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Thonet and Vander Ratsel Ultimate Gaming Speaker System
  • 360 watt peak power
  • Improved Howl Bass technolgy
  • Bluetooth adaptor technolgy built-in
  • Able to be used wired and wireless
  • 2.1 channel surround sound
  • Easy to transform configuration
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2.0 Speakers vs. 2.1 Speakers - What's The Difference?

Before we get into the products, there is one crucial distinction that you need to know, and that is difference between 2.0 and 2.1 speakers.

To summarize things, 2.0 speakers are speakers that do NOT have a subwoofer. 2.1 speakers DO come with a subwoofer. What's a subwoofer? It's something that enhances the bass (low sounds) of a sound system.

Which One Should You Get, 2.0 vs. 2.1?

At first glance, it makes a lot of sense to get 2.1 speakers, right? You gain the subwoofer, which should make for a better experience. However, one major thing to note is that because the subwoofer is apart from the package, the overall quality of all items is WAY lower than if you just got 2.0 speakers in a similar price range. So you're achieving deeper lows, but you're sacrificing the highs and mids.

2.1 is less seamless, less portable, a comparable 2.1 set to 2.0 set for speakers usually costs more than the $200 budget allows.

Which Do We Recommend?

Either one will work wonders. The 2.0 systems are some of the best you can get, and you will get superior sound out of them, in general, compared to the 2.1 sets, but if you're looking for a more well-rounded experience with deeper lows, then 2.1 makes a lot of sense, as well.

Get 2.1 if you want a very immersive system and are okay with sacrificing some sound quality to get those deeper lows.

Get 2.0 if you want the highest quality sound possible in this $200 budget range, and are willing to sacrifice some of the benefits that come with having a subwoofer.

Best Computer Speakers Under $200 - 2.0 Configuration

 Best Overall:
Edifier Luna Eclipse

PROS

  • Stylish
  • Unique design
  • 74 Watts RMS = Loud

CONS

  • Larger than they appear
  • May require some EQ changes

Edifier is one of the best speaker brands in the market, and their Luna Eclipse 2.0 speakers are just absolutely amazing. If you're looking for the best 2.0 speakers for under $200, then here you go!

These speakers are unique, with the shape almost looking like M&M candies. The color is not the traditional piano black or matte black. You are offered the choice of black, red or white.

The Edifier E25 Luna Eclipse has a total power of 74 Watts; each satellite has a 19mm, magnetically shielded, 15 Watts tweeter, as well as a three-inch 22-Watts mid-range. Man, can these things pound out the sound.

The three-inch passive bass radiator on the back allows it to produce that deep bass. Surprisingly, the frequency response of the speaker is 30-20,000 Hz, so it can provide the thump that you wanted even if this is a 2.0 speaker set.

Unlike the 1700BT and the R1280DB, the Edifier E25 does not have two RCA ports, it has one 3.5mm and, of course, a Bluetooth connection.

These speakers made our list because of their style, and booming sound - along with a very large sound range. There may be, however, some need to change the EQ settings on your computer to best tune the sound to your liking.

On the side of the main speaker is a touch sensor for power and volume. Like the other two Edifier sets, this speaker set also comes with a remote control for ease of use.

Given the sound this produces, its style, and compact design-this is definitely worthy of our list of the best computer speakers under $200.

Runner-up:
Yamaha NX-B55 2.0 Speakers

PROS

  • Modern high-tech design
  • Audio standby – turns itself off to save power
  • Extremely portable
  • Sounds are rich for the size (Good highs, mids, and lows)
  • Can be used as a speaker for phone, TV, tablets because of Bluetooth

CONS

  • Bass can get a bit distorted when it gets super low

Yamaha is a renowned motorcycle maker, but that's not all they do. These Yamaha NX-B55 speakers are another one of Yamaha's creations, and they secure their spot on our list of best 2.0 speakers for under $200.

Small things can pack a big punch. No phrase better represents Yamaha's NX-B55 speakers.

Sound is all we care about when it comes to speakers, and these Yamaha NX-B55s deliver. The highs and mids are phenomenal, and you can expect potent sound out of them that doesn't fit their small frame. The bass is great for 2.0 speakers as well, but don't think you're getting anything close to 2.1 bass.

The Yamaha NX-B55 comes in two variants. One is Bluetooth and one isn't. I'd recommend getting the Bluetooth version just because of how versatile it is. You ever want to connect your phone to it? All you have to do is sync it up and get to listening to your favorite songs.

If you're not planning on using the Bluetooth at all, then save yourself some money and buy the regular version for $70 less. If you're looking for very compact speakers, these Yamaha's NX-B55s are amazing, and you should give them a look.

Best for the Money:
Creative GigaWorks T40 Series II

PROS

  • Affordable
  • Easy to use
  • Auto power off
  • Dual input connection

CONS

  • No Bluetooth

Next on our list is an impressive speaker system from Creative.

While having very good sound, the lack of Bluetooth is a downer. The other speakers on this list have a Bluetooth connection, and this is the only one that does not. If Bluetooth is not a requirement for you, then this could leapfrog the Grace Digital and potentially the Edifier speakers.

This speaker has more power than the Grace Digital GDI-BTSP201 and a wider frequency range (slightly) than the Edifier.

The power for this speaker set is 32W or 16W per satellite, and a frequency response of 50 Hz to 20 Hz. It has three drivers in a mid-range-tweeter-mid-range configuration that produce the lows mids and highs,
The T40II uses BasXport technology to provide the deep-bass, in order to avoid the need for a subwoofer. The sound quality is good and clear.

Of course, if you wanted to get a really deep bass, then check out our 2.1 speaker sets.

It allows dual connection via two 3.5mm ports, and you can use the RCA to Stereo adapter to connect it to other equipment like a DVD player or television. The speakers are quite big considering the height is over 12 inches. The right speakers have the volume control that serves as the power switch, as well. The bass and treble controls, along with headphone and AUX ports, are also on the speakers.

4. Edifier R1280DB

PROS

  • Wood casing
  • Remote control
  • Studio sound quality
  • Multiple input options

CONS

  • Bluetooth sometimes loses connection

Looking for a set of speakers that look nice on top of your desk but aren't the conventional black color? The Edifier R1280DB is a great choice.

Wood is the best material to use for acoustics. Fortunately, the Edifier R1280DB uses a wood casing for their 2.0 speakers. The traditional black finish can be dull at times, the Edifier breaks free from this common look. This speaker produces studio-sound quality with its four-inch bass and 13 mm silk dome tweeter.

The total power for this is 42W (21W per satellite), and the frequency response is 55Hz-20KHz.

Edifier's R1280DB speaker has multiple options for connections; it has Bluetooth, a coaxial port, an optical port, and 3.5mm connections. For ease of use, they have a remote control included that allows you to toggle through sources and adjust the volume (including mute) and of course power.

Controls for adjusting the bass and treble are on the side of the main speakers. Along with the bass and treble control are the volume control and the input indicator. On the back of the main speaker, you have the connection ports.

Beyond the look, a big reason we chose this to be on our list of the best computer speakers under $200 is that it is covered by a two-year warranty for parts and labor (U.S. and Canada only).

5. Edifier R1700BT

PROS

  • Bluetooth
  • Well-balanced
  • Remote control
  • 66 W RMS power

CONS

  • Can’t switch inputs without remote

Next up, we have the R1700BT from Edifier, a back to back pair from Edifier.

For a 2.0 speaker set, this thing is loud! The Edifier R1700BT has 66 W of total power. Plus it has this classic look. Loud, yet clear sound comes from its tweeter-midrange speakers on each satellite (15 W tweeters, 18 W Mid-Range). The frequency response for this is 60 Hz-20,000 Hz.

There are two RCA / 3.5 mm connections on this speaker set so you can connect it to your TV, DVD, cell phone, other gadgets, or your computer. A big plus is that it also has the capability of connecting wirelessly through Bluetooth.

Just like the Edifier R1280DB before it, this speaker comes with a remote control for volume and Bluetooth button for pairing it. For some reason though, the remote doesn't have as many options as the R1280DB.

On the main speaker, you will still see the controls for bass, treble, and volume. On the back of the main speaker, there are the RCA ports and the power button.

If you look closely, you will also notice that the speakers are slightly tilted upwards to direct the sound to the listener if they are placed on top of a desk. This speaker set is also backed by a two-year warranty for Canada and US only.

The aesthetics and features for this speaker set are amazing and that’s why it is on our list of best computer speakers under $200. Because of the price, these could be argued to be the best overall in the 2.0 category.

Best Computer Speakers Under $200 - 2.1 Configuration

The last thing we wanted to show you is a list of the best computer speakers under $200 but with a subwoofer pakcage (2.1 channel).

Now the assumption is that the 2.1 speakers would be the better choice. Certainly the below speakers are very good - but with the same budget, you may be sacrificing some features.

We have three entries for this list and are they worth every penny? You be the judge.

1. Harman Kardon Soundsticks III

PROS

  • Clear sound
  • Compatible with all devices
  • Connecting wires can break

CONS

  • Lots of wires
  • No Bluetooth

Like the Edifier E25, this speaker set from Harman Kardon is uniquely designed. It is made from clear plastic, allowing you to see the internals of the speakers.

Talk about design; the Harman Kardon SoundSticks III is one unique piece of equipment. It allows you to see through the construction of the speaker set with the use of a transparent plastic enclosure for both the subwoofer and the satellites.

The total power for this speaker set is 40 W (20 Watts for the sub and 10 Watts for each satellite). The satellites aren't nearly as strong as our 2.0 configurations, though.

One other unique feature for this speaker set is the ability to adjust the tilt of each satellite. This allows you to direct the sound toward you or slightly higher, whichever position you desire.

The subwoofer is down-firing, and the port is facing up. This speaker set has a frequency response of 44 - 20,000 Hz and can produce that deep bass. You can also hear clear mids and highs from this speaker set, and it is ideal for listening to music and watching movies in a small room.

The touch-sensitive control for the volume is on one of the satellite speakers. On the bottom back part of the subwoofer, you have the five-pin connector for the satellite with volume control and a white RCA port that goes to the left satellite.

There is a separate connector for the 3.5 mm port and the bass adjustment knob also serves as a power switch.

One thing we want to point out, is the location of the power button - it's on the subwoofer. While these speakers are attractive, you either have to leave the sub in an easily accessible spot...or just leave them on.

2. Logitech Z623

PROS

  • Loud
  • Affordable
  • THX certified

CONS

  • Short cables

Do you want power? We give you power in this Logitech Z623! It is a super-affordable speaker set with a Bluetooth add on.

So you wanted a speaker that gives a bang? You want that loud sound to fill the room with anything you are listening to?  Well, you have a winner here. This speaker has an astounding 200 W of power and a frequency response of 35Hz - 20kHz, so expect a clean mids and highs, along with deep bass.

The Z625 vs. Z623

The Z623 speaker set is the exact same as the Z625. The only thing that separates them is the optical/toslink input. If the optical input is important to you, you can get the Z625 for another $30. If optical isn't important, save your $30 and get the Z623.

With money to spare, what are you going to buy? The right satellite has the volume, power, and bass controls. It also has the headphone jack and the auxiliary-in port.

This speaker set is THX-certified, so expect the sound it produces to be exactly what the sound engineers intended it to be, booming and fantastic.

3. Klipsch ProMedia 2.1

PROS

  • Loud
  • Still affordable
  • Powerful surround sound plug-and-play adjustable bass

CONS

  • Power switch on sub

If you're looking for something that's a bit more expensive than $200, but one of the best 2.1 sets you can get then you might want to check out Klipsch's Promedia 2.1.

This speaker is a great find and has been the champ for a long time. The Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 takes a spot on our list of best computer speakers under $200 for many reasons. First off, it has 200 W of power ( 130 W sub, 35 W per satellite). If you want to rock in whatever room you're in, these will do!

Like the Logitech Z623, these are THX-certified, so expect great sound quality. This speaker has a frequency response of 31 Hz to 20 kHz. You can listen to music, play games, and watch movies, and the sound will be amazing.

The subs are powerful and can produce the deep bass you want without too much vibration. The satellites are designed to be minimalistic.

The right speaker has the main volume control and the subwoofer volume, it also has the auxiliary-in and the headphone jack. The subs are side-firing with the port on the front side.

Regretfully, this speaker system doesn't provide Bluetooth connectivity - which is a drag on an otherwise great system. Aesthetically, these speakers do show their age here - as they have not redesigned the system for many years.

Having said that, as the old adage goes "if it ain't broke, don't fix it!"

4. Thonet and Vander Ratsel Ultimate Gaming 2.1 Speakers

PROS

  • Bluetooth + 3.5mm stereo inputs
  • Enhanced Howel Bass Technology
  • HDAA wood finish – better acoustics
  • Most immersive speaker set in its class

CONS

  • On the bigger side

Now, this is a unique product right here. Have you ever wanted something that can switch between being a speaker and a soundbar? Well, Dodocool has created a hybrid of the two.

For the price, the value is unmatched, which puts it on our list. If you're looking for a 2.1 speaker set this is the one we recommend if you're looking for the most bang for your buck.

The Thonet and Vander Ratsel Ultimate Gaming 2.1 Surround Sound speakers are just amazing (going to call it the Ratsel for the remaining review). Germans are renowned for their engineering capabilities, and what they've done with these speakers is just mindblowing.

Have you ever just come back from a long day of work or school and wanted to just go to a different world? Well, one of the most critical elements in making that happen is sound. The Ratsel has THE BEST sounding speakers that we've been able to find under $200.

The highs and mids are boosted by the wooden finish, which help trap the sound and then amplify it. They improved the bass by using their own patented technology which they call Howl Bass. Howl Bass extends the low frequencies making for more natural and deeper lows.

The Ratsel also has a ton of useful features. The Ratsel includes a command center which allows you to adjust almost every aspect of the sound to tweak it until it's just right for you. The Ratsel is also Bluetooth, which is always a plus in out book. If you did want to use the Ratsel as a regular speaker, then it can be wired in, as well.

This whole setup is on the bigger end, which could be a flaw if you're looking for something more compact.

Overall, if you have $200, get the Ratsel ASAP. It's the best speaker in its class, and you're not going to find anything better when it comes to sound.

If you want something similar, but a bit cheaper, check out our other options.

Creative Stage 2.1 Speaker with Soundbar

PROS

  • Comes with a soundbar
  • Great value for money
  • Multi-functional speaker
  • Dual-driver with subwoofer
  • Convenient remote-controlled

CONS

  • Bluetooth connectivity issues at first setup
  • Not an ideal portable speaker
  • Plenty of used items online

A buyer said that the audio quality is spot-on on all variations he played, from classics to hip hop. Another customer reported his satisfaction with this speaker under an HP LCD monitor; it looks great!

Creative Stage’s 2.1 Speaker with Soundbar is a multi-functional speaker that delivers high-quality sound for gaming consoles, televisions, desktop computers, and laptops. 

The speakers’ sleek and subtle style is considered a plus for minimalism fans. The simple yet elegant black color can effortlessly blend into various workspaces and gaming hubs. 

Lastly, this speaker with a soundbar has great value for money. It is definitely the best pick for multiple users such as students, teachers, gamers, and professionals on a budget.

Finally, a speaker designed for entertainment lovers! The Creative Stage Speaker is easy to use and perfect for listening to your favorite Spotify or Apple music. It is designed for chill people who don’t even want to get up when changing Netflix movie titles using a convenient remote control. 

Check out the Creative Stage 2.1 Speaker with Soundbar! This modern speaker comes with a soundbar that pairs seamlessly with any TV for a cinema-quality experience at home. With all of the great deals available online, it surely is an affordable option for your home theater build.

Conclusion

All in all, we hope you have found a speaker set that works for you on our list.

Certainly there are some affordable speakers in the 2.1 category below the $200 mark - maybe there is even an opportunity to buy a great gaming headset under $100.

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Austin

When the tech company I worked for restructured and I ended up jobless, I decided to put the wealth of knowledge and management skills to use somewhere new. I’d checked out a few buyer’s guides on the site in the past and reached out to the previous owner. A few months later, here we are. Now, I get to be behind the scenes, helping people find the best tech.