Are you fed up with your PC’s poor sound quality?
If you are, then you’re in exactly the right place.
Whether you’re using your PC for conference calls, to watch movies, or to game, the sound quality is going to have an effect on your enjoyment.
This is where a soundbar can completely change the whole experience for you.
That’s why we have compiled a list to help you find the best PC soundbar for your individual needs.
Quick List: Top 7 PC Soundbars
- Dell Pro Stereo Soundbar AE515M – Most Popular
- Creative Stage Air Soundbar – Best Budget
- Panasonic SoundSlayer Gaming Soundbar
- Anker Nebula Soundbar
- Creative Stage Soundbar
- Razer Leviathan Soundbar with Subwoofer
- Creative Sound BlasterX Katana Soundbar – Best Overall
Researching PC Soundbars
When researching PC soundbars, the first and most important thing is the sound quality. The volume also matters but if you’re using the soundbar at your desk, you probably don’t need as much volume as you would with a TV soundbar.
So we kept a keen eye out to find the soundbars that delivered the best sound for their price. PC soundbars can vary greatly in price, depending on how serious you are about your PC’s sound.
While you can find some great soundbars at an affordable price, those may not cut it for others who are looking for a bigger upgrade.
That’s why we looked for a wide range of soundbars so that everyone has an option that could work for them.
Throughout our research, we also considered the connectivity options, the build, and any extra features.
All these aspects came together to create a list of the best options with the best value for money.
We have also put together some great posts on computer speakers under $100, the best laptop speakers and also the best speakers for gaming. I highly recommend you check those out as well.
The Best PC Soundbar in 2022
1. Dell Pro Stereo Soundbar AE515M Review – Most Popular
- Under-monitor sound bar for computer | designed to fit perfectly under your computer monitor, the low-profile speaker is powered by USB that goes into your monitor with a built-in USB hub for a...
This Creative Stage Air is an awesome option if you want a full range of sounds, and bass that won’t disappoint, all wrapped up in a small soundbar. This bar is a great multi-use product.
✔️ What we like: Designed with a passive radiator
❌ What we don’t like: Can distort at high volumes
Standout Features
- Low-profile design
- Bluetooth connectivity
- 6 hr battery life
This Creative Stage Air bar is designed with a slim profile and with its all-black casing, it looks rather sleek. This low profile means that is will fit perfectly under your PC monitor and won’t interfere with the screen. This soundbar has also included multiple modes of connections.
You can freely connect via AUX and USB for wired connections. You can also connect wirelessly via Bluetooth and with its 6 hr battery life, you can move this soundbar around for smartphone music streaming whenever you aren’t using it for your PC.
Creative Stage Air has created a solid soundbar that performs well for a wide range of sounds. The bass is better than you would expect from a soundbar of this size, due to its passive radiator. This passive radiator is a clever touch to include more bass while still relying on a small power source.
While the bass on this soundbar is better than most, it is still telling of the low price, so if you are expecting perfection from this bar, you may be disappointed with this one. The soundbar also tends to distort at higher volumes which is another very common response in this price range.
The controls are easily reachable on the side of the soundbar and there is a firmware update available that will provide an auto-off battery-saving feature. It’s safe to say that this Creative Stage Air soundbar delivers some terrific rich and well-rounded sounds for its budget-friendly price.
It is both versatile and simple in its operation and would be an awesome addition to any PC set up.
3. Panasonic SoundSlayer Gaming Soundbar Review
- Powerful, Realistic Home Audio with Cinema-Quality 3D Sound: Experience full dramatic tension and realism of movies and TV with revolutionary Dolby Atmos technology and DTS; individual sounds move all...
The Panasonic SoundSlayer Gaming Soundbar is a commanding wireless speaker that delivers Dolby Atmos powered immersive sound. It was specifically designed by gamers for gamers and it has 3 preset sound modes including Voice mode, RPG mode, and FPS mode.
✔️ What we like: Adds realism, ambient music, environmental sound, and dimensional dialogue
❌ What we don’t like: Difficulty connecting to PlayStation 5
Standout Features
- 3-way speaker system
- RPG, FPS, and Voice mode
- 4K HDR pass through
- Powered by Dolby Atmos technology
- Immersive 3D sound
My absolute favorite thing about this soundbar is the three gaming modes. I love playing PC games and I don’t have to fiddle with the sound at all whenever I’m playing my latest first-person shooter (FPS), role-playing game (RPG), or my favorite adventure game that I would listen to in Voice mode because it enhances human voices. These prebuilt settings come in handy and make it very easy to enjoy the perfect sound levels while playing video games on my PC.
Next, I love the fact that I could easily connect this soundbar to many of my favorite electronics inside my home. I typically keep this connected to my PC because I’m really into PC gaming as I mentioned, but I also have the option to collect it to my Blu-ray player or my TV via the HDMI cable. Or if I prefer, I can even pair these devices via Bluetooth if I’d rather go wireless.
This didn’t happen to me personally, but I did learn that another customer had a tough time connecting this soundbar to his PS5, which is really disappointing because you obviously want the best sound possible while playing PlayStation 5 games. He said that he couldn’t get the pas through working through either of his HDMI cables, and he had to set it up by going straight from the PS5 and directly into the monitor.
At the end of the day, I can say with absolute certainty that I am a huge fan of the Panasonic SoundSlayer Gaming Soundbar for so many different reasons. But most of all, I love how much it enhances my entire PC gaming experience and provides surround sound quality audio. It almost feels like I’m living the video gaming experience in person.
I also appreciate the 3 audio modes, the Bluetooth connectivity, the premium sound, and the fact that it’s small enough to easily fit snugly under my monitor when I use it with my gaming PC.
4. Anker Nebula Soundbar Review
- FIRE TV EDITION: Nebula Soundbar – Fire TV Edition brings cinematic sound and powerful streaming to any TV by combining a 2.1 channel soundbar with a Fire TV 4K streaming media player built-in. No...
The Anker Nebula Soundbar is definitely a fan favorite and a favorite of mine because it delivers big sound via 2.1 channel immersive design, 4K Ultra HD streaming, it has Amazon Fire TV connectivity, and it truly enhances my TV watching experience in PC gaming.
✔️ What we like: 2 speakers and 2 subwoofers deliver cinematic sound
❌ What we don’t like: Bass died after an hour
Standout Features
- Alexa voice remote
- Dual speakers for enhanced sound
- 4K HDR
- Multiple Bluetooth connections
- Movie, Music, and Voice modes
I’m a huge fan of this soundbar because I love the fact that it gives me the ability to completely optimize my entertainment experience. By this I mean that I get to switch back and forth between three different entertainment modes called Movie mode, Music mode, and Voice mode.
Movie mode is great because it completely enhances the movie watching experience and makes it feel like you’re sitting in a movie theater. Music mode delivers crystal-clear audio for songs, and Voice mode enhances voices which is perfect whenever I listen to my favorite podcasts or watch YouTube videos.
I also like that I can connect this soundbar to my PC or TV via HDMI cable or Bluetooth connectivity. And if I use Bluetooth, which is typically what I prefer these days, I love the fact that I can connect multiple devices to the soundbar and switch back and forth between them without having to disconnect and reconnect over and over again. I have my mobile phone, my tablet, and my PC all connected to the soundbar at the same time and it’s great.
Although I didn’t personally experience what I’m about to say, I did read that one customer was very disappointed with his soundbar purchase. He connected it to his TV and he was watching a movie and loving it at first, but after an hour the bass completely died and he was never able to get it back again.
The controls for the bass inside the device must have burned out and he lost it for good. Hopefully he contacted the manufacturer to get a replacement because he deserves a brand-new one after the old one burned out in an hour.
All told, I’m a huge fan of the Anker Nebula Soundbar because of the 3 modes including Movie mode, Music mode, and Voice mode. I love the powerful cinematic audio experience that it delivers whenever I use it to watch a movie. And you’ll never hear me complaining about a device that connects so many different ways including via AUX, HDMI, and Bluetooth.
5. Creative Stage Soundbar Review
- Clutter-free, under-monitor sound bar for computer and TV fits perfectly under a PC monitor and blends naturally into any room interior with its sleek, subtle design. The sound bar also comes with a...
The Creative Stage Soundbar is a sleek looking device with a subtle and understated design. It fits comfortably directly under your PC monitor and it will fit well with the overall interior design of your room. It connects via USB, Bluetooth, AUX, ARC and more. Plus, it has pre-set EQ selections that are truly outstanding.
✔️ What we like: 4 different pre-set EQ modes
❌ What we don’t like: The “Auto-Off” Feature Is Annoying
Standout Features
- Wireless connectivity
- Clutter-free design
- Wall mounting capable
- Comes with wall mounting kit
- 160 W peak power
You’re never going to hear me complain about the Creative Stage Soundbar because it truly delivers an immersive audio experience. I am personally a really big fan of the pre-set EQ selections. They have 4 different modes available including Gaming mode, Concert mode, Music mode, and Movies mode.
I just flip it to Gaming mode whenever I’m playing my favorite first-person shooter, and then immediately flip it back to Movies mode when I’m watching the latest and greatest new superhero movie or action flick. It’s so easy and convenient to use these pre-set settings.
Another interesting feature is the capability to use this as a standalone MP3 player. Just plug a USB device containing your favorite MP3s into the slot in the soundbar. You can actually play the MP3s directly from the soundbar without connecting it to a tuner, mobile phone, TV, or any other external input.
This is great if you want to just turn on the soundbar and listen to some of your favorite songs, podcasts, TED Talks, or anything else you might have stored as MP3s on your USB stick.
I didn’t like reading about one former customer’s problem with the “Auto-Off” feature that really sounded like a great idea at first. He said that if you’re using the soundbar while watching a movie that has quiet scenes, as an example, the auto-off feature will shut down the soundbar during the quiet parts because it doesn’t detect the audio.
This can get frustrating having to turn the soundbar back on again during quiet scenes in a movie. It didn’t happen to me personally but I can see how annoying this could get.
More than anything else, I truly appreciate the high-quality sound of the Creative Stage Soundbar. The fact that it has multiple connection options, the standalone MP3 player via a USB stick, the amazing 2.1 high-performance system and 160 W peak power speakers that deliver powerful midrange, enhanced dialogue clarity, and an overall amazing audio performance.
6. Razer Leviathan Soundbar with Subwoofer Review
- Immersive 5.1 Channel Surround Sound For Gaming And Movies
While some people may be happy with affordable soundbars to improve their general PC sound quality, others are after the whole set up. This Razer Leviathan soundbar with a subwoofer is the ultimate PC sound setup to take your system to the next level.
✔️ What we like: Great bass coverage
❌ What we don’t like: Not quite a 5.1 system
Standout Features
- Three different sound modes
- Includes a wired subwoofer
- Supports surround sound technology
If you’re serious about your PC set up, then a budget-friendly soundbar may not be enough. That’s where this Razer Leviathan soundbar comes in. It is kitted out with two full-range drivers and two tweeters, ensuring that you will receive the clearest sounds possible.
You won’t be missing any dialog in movies or any detail in your games. To add to the main soundbar is a wired subwoofer to give you the full kick of the bass. This set up has all your bases covered for a balanced sound experience.
On top of the physical set up is the inclusion of some great sound technology. This soundbar supports Dolby Virtual Speakers, Dolby Pro Logic II, and Dolby Digital. That means that you can expect top-quality immersion into your movies and your gaming session will feel that much more realistic.
This soundbar claims to be a 5.1 channel bar from the 5.1 virtual surround sound experience. However, this can be misleading if you are expecting a dedicated center channel and an extra two rear speakers, which you would see in most 5.1 channel systems. That is just something to be aware of and for clarity, it is just the main soundbar and the subwoofer that is included.
The soundbar is also equipped with different sound modes so that all applications of the soundbar will have perfectly adjusted sound profiles. You will be able to choose from Games, Movies, and Music.
You can easily connect to this bar via Optical Audio and AUX which gives a nice variety of options. This Razer Leviathan soundbar also offers Bluetooth and NFC so you are fully covered for wireless connection.
This soundbar can really be paired with any use on your PC but it shines more when used for movies and games.
7. Creative Sound BlasterX Katana Soundbar Review – Best Overall
- Under monitor Audio system: so sleek, yet so powerful
This Creative Sound soundbar is an awesome option for people who are serious about their PC sound quality. With its sleek design and RGB lighting, it’ll make any PC setup look fantastic.
✔️ What we like: Two up-firing midbass drivers
❌ What we don’t like: Takes up a lot of space
Standout Features
- Programmable RGB lighting
- Includes a subwoofer
- 5-driver design
This soundbar may be a bit of a price stretch for many people looking to improve their PC audio. However, if it fits in your budget, it is well worth the money. This Katana soundbar is equipped with two up-firing midbass drivers and two high-excursion tweeters. Essentially, you won’t be lacking any dialog clarity and the sounds will be as crisp as ever.
In the subwoofer, there is one long-throw driver to provide all the bass you need. Each driver is rigged with a DSP-controlled amplifier. This Digital Signal Processor will result in audio that is clear and precise, so you won’t be missing out on any details.
Creative Sound has also kitted out this soundbar with programmable RGB lighting. This means that you can easily select one of 16.8 million available colors to fully customize your sound system. The bar itself is also quite aesthetic with its angular design and metallic finish.
Its slim profile means that it will fit on your desk quite comfortably and it won’t block your monitor. The only thing is that the subwoofer is rather large, so you’ll have to bear that in mind.
Furthermore, this BlasterX Katana soundbar has multiple connectivity options. You can connect via Optical, USB, and AUX so you can easily have more than one device connected at a time. You can also connect wirelessly via the Bluetooth option which adds some great versatility to the soundbar.
All in all, this is a great option for anyone looking to indulge in an awesome soundbar.
A Guide to Choosing PC Soundbars
Sound Quality
When you’re looking for a soundbar to improve your PC sound, you’re probably going to want the best of the best. Unfortunately, some price brackets can’t quite get you the best of the best. However, if you know where to look, you can find budget-friendly options that give you some pretty fantastic sound.
In general, having more drivers and a wide range of them will improve the sound quality. So, it can be helpful to look out for soundbars that include a variety of mid-range drivers and tweeters instead of just having one full-range. A subwoofer can also make a big difference to the bass so that it always a bonus in terms of sound quality.
Size
Most people are going to be using their PCs at a desk that has limited space so when it comes to the size of the soundbar, compact is usually better. It helps to pay attention to soundbars that have a slim design and a low profile so that they don’t interfere with the PC monitor in any way.
Also, as much as a subwoofer can improve sound quality, it may not be an option for people tight on space. Ultimately, the size will be dependent on the space you have available but in general, the smaller soundbars will be more convenient for desk space.
Features
If you’re a gamer or if you’re really into your movies, you may want to consider a soundbar with virtual surround sound technology. This can make a huge difference to your overall experience and can make you feel like you’re inside the action.
Other features like lights can be really nice to have but they are not necessary for a good soundbar. So we recommend paying more attention to any virtual surround sound technology or pre-installed sound profiles, but aesthetic features are not to be completely overlooked either.
Choosing Your Perfect PC Soundbar
When it comes to choosing a PC soundbar, a large portion of the process revolves around what you are going to use it for and what your budget is.
For example, a gamer may prioritize a subwoofer over Skype for Business certification.
These are things you will have to decide for yourself, but you can rest assured with the sourcing process because we have already done the hard part for you.
With this curated list of the best PC soundbar, you are sure to find the perfect match for your personal sound needs.
Further Reading:
- Definitive Technologies Studio 3D Mini Review (Soundbar & Sub)
- Mackie CR StealthBar Desktop PC Soundbar Review
- 6 Best Soundbars Under $1000 In 2022 (Big Bucks For Big Sound)
- 9 Best Soundbars Under $500 (Blow Your Mind, Not Your Money)
- 13 Best Soundbars Under $300 (Great Sound For A Great Price)
Trent is a music lover, musical instrument player and passionate audio afficionado.