Having a mini speaker truly amplifies all the fun you can get from playing the music of your favorite artists. Of course, you can use these accessories for other purposes as well, such as watching movies or playing videogames.
Since they are versatile tools, they are compatible with different devices with USB ports, like smartphones, tablets, and of course, computers.
To enhance the quality of your audio, today we’re reviewing the best USB powered speakers currently available in the market.
While these speakers may vary in shape and size, most of them are still compact accessories that would fit in well within your setup.
So, whether you use them at home for your desktop, or at the office on your laptop, they will reproduce sound in high-quality.
Table of Contents
10 Best USB Powered Speakers Review
| Image | Name | Speaker Type | Rated Power | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Top | Creative Pebble 2.0 USB-Powered Speakers | Two rounded audio speakers | 16 Watts | Check Price |
Top | Dell AC511 USB-Powered Soundbar | Sound bar | 2 x 1.25 Watts | Check Price |
Top | TaoTronics USB-Powered Mini Soundbar | Sound bar | 10 Watts | Check Price |
Top | Logitech Z50 Speakers | Single audio speaker | 10 Watts | Check Price |
Top | Sanyun SW102 Speakers | Two elliptical speakers | 5W X 5 Watts | Check Price |
Top | AmazonBasics USB-Powered Speakers | Two elliptical speakers | 2 x 1.2 Watts | Check Price |
Top | BeBomBasicsSP20 USB 2.0 Speakers | Two audio speakers | 2 x 3 Watts | Check Price |
Top | ELEGIANT Wired Computer Sound Bar, USB Powered | Sound bar | 2 x 3 Watts | Check Price |
Top | LIELONGREEN USB-Powered Stereo Mini Sound Bar Speaker | Sound bar | 3W (Dual 1.5W Driver) | Check Price |
Top | Moloroll USB Powered Speakers | Two audio speakers | 2 x 3 Watts | Check Price |
Are you looking for the top portable computer speaker? Here’s a selection of 10 different alternatives for you to consider.
1. Creative Pebble 2.0 USB-Powered Speakers
This pair of speakers is a safe bet that succeeds by offering a stable performance without using too many fancy features. You won’t find stylish LED lights or particularly exciting designs, but that’s good! Because what they lack in aesthetics, they surely compensate with results.
Perhaps one of their most exciting features is their shape, setting the speakers in a 45-degrees position. It may seem unorthodox, but it manages to create an immersive atmosphere by projecting quality music and sounds across the room.
Another small design choice we appreciated was the volume controls. They are not in the middle of the cord, but rather on the speakers. It makes changing the volume such an easy task that doesn’t turn frustrating at any given moment.
These speakers are available in black or white, providing everyone a suitable audio device to customize their laptops or PCs. Each speaker measures 4.4-inch wide, so you won’t have to waste plenty of desk space that you could use for other items.
Finally, we have to mention the use of a single cord for audio and power. The single USB cable works for both computers or laptops, and it gets rid of annoying power adapters.
Pros
- Available in black and white colors
- Simple speakers for simple tasks
- 4-inch wide measurement
- One USB cable for power and audio
Cons
- Audio loses quality when playing in high volume
2. Dell AC511 USB-Powered Soundbar
This speaker delivers everything you can expect from it. It is a bit larger than the other soundbars reviewed here, but that’s also one of its most significant advantages. It will play music at a high volume without cracking or losing quality, filling the room, office, or anywhere you set it up.
Even though it is larger than the other soundbars, this device is still a low-profile audio accessory that will fit well in your setup.
Like only the best product can offer, this soundbar is a USB device with Plug-n-Play technology. There are no software or drivers required, only plugging the cable in the USB port of your preferred computer system is needed.
There’s a built-in knob for volume control. While there’s nothing too interesting about this element, it does offer quick access to volume settings in case you need to adjust it quickly. Unlike the next product on this list, this one doesn’t have lights on the knob.
For users that enjoy customizing every piece of their setup, this soundbar features an integrated T-Hook. They will be able to use it to mount the speaker over a compatible monitor, adding that unique and stylish look for their computers.
Pros
- Audio files play at a high volume
- Low-profile soundbar fits well in most setups
- USB connector
- T-Hook mount for customization
Cons
- After setting it up, the speaker produced some internal noise, and that was disappointing
3. TaoTronics USB-Powered Mini Soundbar
Even though it sits in the third position, this soundbar could easily be first in every list. It is a device that quickly enhances the quality of the sound played by your devices. Even better, you can install it over most desks without sacrificing the precious space that you could use for other items.
It is a universal speaker that works with almost every device. As a unique requirement, the soundbar demands that your PC, phones, or tablets have a 3.5mm headphone jack.
If they do feature that port, you’ll be able to use it on a variety of music players to listen to your favorite songs wherever you go.
Of course, if you want the best quality, it is always better to install it at a certain place and let the speaker do its job. We’ve tried it as an amplifier in the entertainment room while watching some movies, and the results were satisfactory.
The speaker is easy to use. If you have a compatible device, plug the cord in the USB port, and that’s it, you’re ready to go. Accessing the dial knob to change the volume is no problem. On the back, you’ll find ports to connect both headphones or microphones to customize your experience.
Pros
- Compact soundbar saves plenty of desk space
- Compatible with every device with a 3.5mm headphone jack
- Distributes quality sound throughout the room
- Easy to use
- Features ports for microphone and headphones
Cons
- There’s no way to turn off the blue light at the dial knob other than by turning the device off
4. Logitech Z50 Speakers
While it is not as compact as the others, this speaker is equally versatile. It works with a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and PC. The only requirement is to have a 3.5mm jack, which is a feature that most of our devices have.
Once plugged, the speaker doesn’t require following any complicated steps to start operating. It is a Plug-n-Play device, getting rid of the time you’d waste installing drivers and changing tedious settings.
For more convenience, this speaker doesn’t use a battery. Instead, it is an AC-powered accessory, making it a hassle-free mini speaker that won’t let you down in the least expected moments.
When playing music, the speaker meets our expectations by playing it at a loud, high volume level. It produces around 10W of power, translating it into high-quality audio to enjoy. If you want to use it at home or the office, you can choose between three colors available: blue, gray, and pink.
As a bonus benefit, customers will be able to use this speaker with computers with MAC Operative System. On the other hand, as a clear disadvantage, this speaker requires the use of two cables: one for power and another one for audio.
Pros
- High compatibility with many devices, including MAC OS computers
- No batteries
- Plug-n-Play
- Plays music at high volume
Cons
- This speaker uses two separate cables for audio and power
5. Sanyun SW102 Speakers
You can tell these mini speakers are incredible just by looking at them. The metal and plastic materials used to produce them offer the perfect balance between resistance and capacity to play music in both high or low volume.
While we’re not fans of the elliptical design, which you’ll see one more time later in the reviews, there’s no denying how effective it is. Once you place them in one-meter distance from each other, the sound quality plays in 360 degrees that quickly fills the room.
When compared to other small speakers, these deliver efficiency in areas where the others fail; most noticeably, the bass sound quality. Whether you set the volume high or low, you’ll be able to hear and enjoy any bass audio playing through these mini speakers.
The speakers feature a bass diaphragm designed explicitly for bass quality. Also, there’s a closed cavity and proper support for low-frequency sounds. Every one of these features creates an ideal structure to resonate with the acoustic of the bass.
Of course, the bass quality produced by these accessories can not match the one produced by larger speakers, but it is still an appreciated improvement.
Pros
- Durable metal and plastic materials used to produce the speakers
- Effective 360 degrees, elliptical shape to play sounds
- Perfect structure to play bass lines
Cons
- You can’t turn off the lights unless you unplug the speakers
6. AmazonBasics USB-Powered Speakers
Not the most good-looking speakers, but they have a lot to offer either way. This set of two speakers are USB-powered devices, opening up a lot of possibilities about the things you can do with them.
As long as your computer and gadgets have a USB port, you should be able to rock music through these audio speakers without problems.
To use the speakers, you have to plug them, and nothing more. They are Plug-n-Play speakers, meaning that there’s no need to install drivers of any kind. The in-line control for the volume also makes it possible to adjust the music, playing it at a comfortable level for you to enjoy.
The frequency range varies between 80Hz and 20kHz, and the speakers work at 2.4 Watts of RMS, 1.2 Watts from each one of the units. Their dimensions are 3.9×2.6×2.8-inch, weighing roughly 1.4 pounds.
Overall, not the most compact audio speakers, but they’re still convenient for a lot of activities.
We mentioned that they’re not good-looking, and we stand by that. The police car siren shape is not of our liking. Luckily, the black metal finish does add a modern look, making the speakers a sleek and stylish choice for anyone that appreciates their look.
Pros
- USB-powered speakers
- Plug-n-Play, no drivers required
- Diverse frequency range
Cons
- These speakers don’t play bass sounds properly
7. BeBomBasics SP20 USB 2.0 Speakers
Both of these speakers manage to provide performance without any interference. The stereo quality gets rid of acoustics, filling the room with high-quality music for everyone to enjoy. You can also use them while watching movies, as the volume can play at a considerably high level.
Another interesting feature is how to set the volume up or down, which you can do through the mid-cord, controlling both units. You can also do it through the laptop. Either way, both methods will allow you to control the volume efficiently.
However, when you’re using the speakers with other devices, it may be challenging to reach the volume controls. Perhaps it would’ve been better if the volume control was a little closer to the actual speakers,
What devices support these speakers? There are many of them: phones, tablets, laptops, and more. Any gadget with an AUX Jack port should be able to establish a successful connection with the audio speakers using the AUX IN connectivity.
This pair of DC powered speakers are compact. They may not be as convenient as the mini soundbars that you can store and set up easily, but these are not complicated to use either. Since they are quite small, the speakers will not consume too much space.
Pros
- Compact pair of mini speakers
- High volume capacity for music and movies
- No interference whatsoever
- Compatible with different devices
Cons
- The location of the volume control makes it hard to reach sometimes
8. ELEGIANT Wired Computer Sound Bar, USB Powered
While this device is not the only bar sound you’ll find here, it sure is one of the most innovative. For the case, it offers an incredible ABS varnish, providing the protection it needs to prevent it from wearing down.
The aluminum alloy material and LED lights make this speaker an excellent choice for us. This soundbar offers simple operation to both PC enthusiasts and casual users.
Since it is a plug and play device, activating it doesn’t require more than connecting the device without the use of a battery or power cord.
You do have to plug the pink and green cable in mic and headphone ports, respectively. Once you do that, turn the round knob up, and you’ll be ready to start blasting those songs.
If you’re not a fan of the blue LED lights, you can alternate between the other two options: red and green. The freedom to customize the bar sound is perfect for people looking to add their style to their setups.
Now, to use this speaker, your devices must have a 3.5mm audio jack. Fortunately, that’s such a standard feature that most audio players have it, including PC, TVs, Headset, Phones, and even Walkman for the vintage experience.
Real trouble may come when the cables malfunction, as they are non-replaceable.
Pros
- Comfortable audio range
- Proper bass audio produced
- Color variety and effects
Cons
- Non-replaceable cables
9. LIELONGREEN USB-Powered Stereo Mini Sound Bar Speaker
This speaker is not only efficient at playing audio, but it is a convenient choice for your setup too. It is a minibar that uses one cable for sound and power. Since it is a USB, you need to do nothing more than plug it into your PC or preferred USB port, and it will receive energy and play sound.
There are two methods to install this mini soundbar. First, you can either use the clip-on mount, which comes included in the purchase. It will allow you to attach the device over any laptop screen measuring equal or less than 1/2-inch of thickness.
Or, if you like a standard setup, you can use the mount to place the speaker vertically over your desk beside your computer.
Both installation methods ensure people have the opportunity to use the speaker the way they want it. Furthermore, it allows customers to find that perfect spot to place the mini soundbar, right from where it will play the music in perfect harmony with the room.
When active, the soundbar delivers satisfactory audio quality. It helps that this device has high compatibility with different devices.
While it doesn’t work on MAC OS, it will work perfectly with every other Windows PC, including Lenovo, ASUS, Acer, and more. This device would’ve been a 10/10 speaker alternative if the cord was longer.
Pros
- Portable mini bar for sound
- A unique cable for audio and power
- Diverse installation methods
Cons
- Short cord
- Not compatible with MAC OS
10. Moloroll USB Powered Speakers
These speakers offer an output quality of RMSW, delivering a stereo sound from the moment it starts. The audio quality is alright, producing clear sounds from every instrument, even the bass at a comfortable vibration. This set of speakers is ideal for music to relax.
Also, the compact design of the speakers makes them a reliable choice that won’t consume too much space. Whether you use it at home or the office, these two pieces fit well in any setup. Despite their small size, there’s no decrease in sound quality either.
Moreover, these speakers allow you to enjoy music on different devices too. Whether you’re using PC, smartphones, or tablets, the speakers will work wonderfully. That is, of course, as long as those devices have a USB port to connect and earphone-jack compatibility.
The speakers are Plug-n-Play. As soon as you plug the cable in the port, everything will be set to start playing your music. Also, to control the volume, there are two options: you can do it either through the computer or through the controller offered by the speakers.
Setting the volume high up shows one of the most disappointing disadvantages of the speakers: the quality. You may want to keep the volume at a mid or low level, as it will play sounds much better.
Pros
- Small compact size
- Compatible with most devices with USB port
- Plug-n-Play
Cons
- Audio at a high volume level doesn’t sound good
Features to Look for in a USB Powered Speaker
There are some considerations you must keep in mind to find the best USB speakers. Here, we’ll discuss their essential features.
Compact Size
Naturally, if you’re looking for a small speaker, your options shouldn’t be large accessories that would consume most of the space over your desk. A fair size reference would be the AmazonBasics Speakers, which measure 3.9×2.6×2.8-inch. LxWxH, respectively.
Of course, the size may vary if you choose a soundbar, which takes us to our next feature.
A Soundbar or Traditional Speakers
While there is no much difference between a soundbar and the typical computer speakers, each one would suit better in specific setups. So, if you’re looking for a modern look and a stylish setup, the soundbar is the perfect way to go.
Plug-n-Play
USB-powered devices must be Plug-n-Play. Long gone are the days when we would spend countless hours looking for drivers for each operative system, only to find out they weren’t the right version.
Plug-n-Play devices offer quick installation, requiring only to connect the cord to start playing music as quickly as possible.
Volume Control
It is unbelievable how manufacturers often get wrong with such an essential feature like the volume control. Sometimes, the location mid-cord of the controller makes it challenging to reach and adjust the audio volume, which is not ideal.
Always look for a speaker with a proper volume controller. Additionally, make sure it will allow you to change the volume through the PC settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most commonly asked queries regarding USB-powered speakers:
How to use USB-powered speakers?
Setting up the speakers is an easy process. Connect the cables, both USB and AUX. Once they’re plugged in, turn on the speakers, set up the right volume, and start playing.
What devices are compatible with USB-powered speakers?
Not every speaker can do it, but most USB speakers will work for TV, PCs, laptops, phones, tablets, and more. As long as the devices have a proper USB port, you should be fine to plug the speakers and enjoy the music.
Why does only one of the speakers work?
It could be because one of the channels didn’t turn on properly. If that’s the issue, you want to check the settings on the computer to activate both speakers correctly.
How to connect earphones to USB speakers?
As long as the speakers have AUX input, you’ll be able to connect earphones successfully.
What’s the ideal speaker cord length?
While it varies between each speaker, an ideal cord length would be 39-inch long.
Final Words & Recommendation
While there are many speakers available, it is up to you to decide which one fits your setup better. As you’ve seen in our review of the best USB-powered speakers, there’s one for everyone, whether you enjoy the traditional pair of speakers or the stylish soundbar device.
Either way, figuring out which one you need is a decision that falls upon you. Our only recommendation is if you’re looking for a high-quality speaker for an entertainment room, the soundbars are way better.
However, for basic tasks like playing music at the office or home, a traditional pair of two speakers would be more than enough. Consider your options and pick wisely.
Be the first to comment