Summer is the perfect time to refresh your gaming space, and a great set of speakers can take your experience far beyond what a headset delivers. Whether you’re diving into long campaign sessions or relaxing with open-world exploration, the right audio setup lets you enjoy game soundtracks, dialogue, and effects in full detail, no sweaty headphones required.
I tested models with spatial audio features like Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X Ultra, which create a 3D sound field that helps you locate enemies or immerse yourself in cinematic scenes. Many of these speakers work across platforms, including PC, mobile, and major consoles, so you can stay in the game no matter how you’re playing this season.
Also: Everything you need for the ultimate gaming setup
What are the best gaming speakers right now?
I chose the Logitech G560 as the best gaming speaker for its DTS:X Ultra virtual surround sound support, 97dB peak, integrated RGB lighting, and support for multiple gaming platforms like PC, Xbox, and PS5, and even mobile devices. You can keep reading below to find out more about the Logitech G560 as well as the rest of our picks for the best gaming speakers.
The best gaming speakers of 2025
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The Logitech G560 is one of the best gaming speaker systems you can buy for your PC. It connects to your computer, console, or mobile device via USB or Bluetooth, providing a completely wireless setup or a more reliable hardwired connection. The dual speakers and dedicated subwoofer offer up to 240 watts of peak power, producing up to 97 decibels of volume so you can feel and hear deep bass tones and clear mid and high notes.
The G560 also uses DTS:X Ultra virtual surround sound to recreate spatial and positional audio, making it easier to pinpoint in-game sound cues. Additionally, the speakers work with Logitech’s Lightsync RGB lighting system, allowing you to customize four lighting zones on each speaker with over 16 million colors. You can even set the RGB lighting to react to in-game audio, such as music, gunfire, or explosions, adding more visual flair to your Twitch streams or personal gaming sessions. Verified customer reviews from Amazon agree that the system is fast and easy to set up and features intuitive controls for creating custom audio settings.
Logitech G560 specs: Audio: DTS:X Ultra Surround Sound | Channels: 7.1 | Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB | Compatibility: Windows, Android, iOS
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The Pebble by Creative Labs is an excellent choice if you’re looking for seriously budget-friendly speakers for gaming on your PC, laptop, or mobile device. For under $20, you’ll get a pair of 4.4-watt speakers with 2-inch drivers and passive bass radiators to help enhance your computer’s native audio. Their compact design makes them ideal for laptop gamers, as they can easily fit inside a tote, backpack, or laptop bag and don’t require much desk space.
The Pebble is also plug-and-play, so you won’t have to wait for dedicated drivers to download and install. These speakers can be used with Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android devices. Verified customer reviews from Amazon and Walmart praise the sound quality of the Pebble 2.0, saying it’s surprisingly robust for such a low price.
Creative Labs Pebble specs: Audio: N/A | Channels: N/A | Connectivity: USB, 3.5mm AUX | Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android
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If you want to invest in a high-end, dedicated gaming speaker system, the SteelSeries Arena 9 is an excellent option. It uses a combination of wired and wireless speakers and a dedicated subwoofer to provide 5.1CH true surround sound for your gaming space.
The rear speakers are wireless, giving you plenty of freedom to create custom configurations, while the wired speakers provide precise delivery of high and mid-tones. The 6.5-inch subwoofer has a downward-firing diaphragm, directing those powerful bass notes into the floor so you can feel as much as hear them.
This was especially evident when I fired up Persona 5: Dancing in Starlight to test the Arena 9’s different EQ settings. Synth bass lines and kick drums thrumming wonderfully through the subwoofer and satellite speakers.
Read the review: The most immersive speaker system I’ve ever tested isn’t from Bose or Sonos
A separate control pod lets you easily adjust volume, create custom EQ settings, switch connection options, and more. The OLED screen creates crystal-clear text, so you never have to use trial and error to know each function.
You can connect the Arena 9 to your Windows or Mac PC, PlayStation 5, or Xbox Series X via USB or Bluetooth, while a 3.5mm AUX and Optical cables allow you to connect to mobile devices and televisions.
Verified reviews from Amazon and Best Buy love the versatility of the Arena 9 for gaming, streaming movies, shows, and music with dedicated EQ settings, as well as the Sonar software customization features.
SteelSeries Arena 9 specs: Audio: N/A | Channels: 5.1 | Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB, AUX, Optical | Compatibility: Windows, iOS, Android, Mac, PS5, Xbox Series X
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This Samsung soundbar is a great option for console gamers looking to boost their audio quality or enhance their TV’s output with Dolby Digital 5.1CH and DTS Virtual:X support. It also uses Samsung’s adaptive sound technology to automatically analyze and balance sound for better voice clarity in shows, movies, and music. The dedicated music mode is perfect for audiophiles looking for a multifunctional soundbar for a shared gaming and entertainment space.
You connect your console to the soundbar via HDMI ARC or optical if you prefer a hardwired setup, or you can use Bluetooth or NFC connectivity for a wireless, clutter-free area. You can even set up dual Bluetooth connections at once, letting you quickly and easily switch from work or streaming to gaming with the tap of a button. And with two subwoofers and three tweeter speakers built into the soundbar, you’ll get rich, full sound without overwhelming your space.
Samsung HW-S50B soundbar specs: Audio: DTS Virtual:X, Dolby 5.1 | Channels: 3.0 | Connectivity: Bluetooth, HDMI, USB, RCA, Optical | Compatibility: PlayStation 4 / 5, Xbox One X/Series X|S, Nintendo Switch
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The BlueAnt Soundblade is a great choice if your desk is short on space, but you’re looking to boost your PC or laptop’s audio. With 2.1CH sound, you’ll get crisp dialogue and rich music while multiple connectivity options, including Bluetooth, give you plenty of ways to set up the speaker to suit your space and setup. The Soundblade features three EQ presets for quicker setup and easier switching between streaming and gaming.
Read the review: One of the best desktop speakers I’ve tested is not made by Logitech or Pioneer
ZDNET expert Jack Wallen was able to go hands-on with the BlueAnt Soundblade, and was impressed not only by it’s fast setup, but also the sound output it was capable, given its compact size. He also used it with his Nintendo Switch console for enhanced audio in both tabletop and handheld mode.
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What are the tariffs in the US?
The recent US tariffs on imports from countries like China, Vietnam, and India aim to boost domestic manufacturing but are likely to drive up prices on consumer electronics. Products like smartphones, laptops, and audio equipment may become more expensive as companies rethink global supply chains and weigh the cost of shifting production.
Also: Tariff war has tech buyers wondering what’s next. Here’s what we know
Speakers and sound bars, many of which are manufactured in these nations, may experience price increases of up to 20%, making them less affordable for consumers. Manufacturers contemplate relocating assembly operations to countries with tariff exemptions, but such moves involve logistical challenges and substantial costs. Companies like Samsung, which produces a significant portion of their electronics in Mexico, anticipate being less affected than competitors relying heavily on Chinese manufacturing.
Overall, consumers should brace for higher prices and potential shifts in product availability within the home entertainment market.
My pick for the best gaming speaker is the Logitech G560. This sound system features 7.1CH audio and DTS:X Ultra Surround Sound drivers for clean, immersive audio.
The desktop speakers also feature reactive RGB lighting that pulses with your music or in-game sound effects, an excellent feature for content creators and streamers who want to add more visual flair to their videos and live streams.
The dedicated subwoofer ensures you get deep, satisfying bass notes in epic game soundtracks and in-game audio cues like explosions. The entire system can also have Bluetooth connectivity for a completely wireless setup.
| Gaming speaker | Price | Where to Buy | Audio | Channels | Connectivity | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Logitech G560 | $250 | Amazon, Walmart, Dell | DTS:X Ultra Surround Sound | 7.1 | Bluetooth, USB | Windows, Android, iOS |
| Creative Labs Pebble | $24 | Amazon, Walmart, B&H Photo | N/A | N/A | USB, 3.5mm AUX | Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android |
| SteelSeries Arena 9 | $680 | Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart | N/A | 5.1 | Bluetooth, USB, AUX, Optical | Windows, iOS, Android, Mac, PS5, Xbox Series X |
| Samsung HW-S50B | $198 | Amazon, Walmart | Dolby Digital 5.1/DTS Virtual:X | 5.1 | Bluetooth, HDMI ARC, Optical | TV |
| BlueAnt Soundblade | $150 | Amazon | N/A | 2.1 | AUX, Bluetooth, USB-C, USB | Windows, Mac, PS5 |
*Best price at the time of writing. Please note that actual prices may vary depending on the retailer.
Space is the most significant factor when purchasing a dedicated gaming speaker or sound system for your game room. There are compact options that are great for multi-monitor setups or desks that are on the smaller side. However, if you’re a console gamer, you’ll have to do a lot of measuring to make sure your bookshelf speakers, sound bars, or subwoofers will 1) fit in your space and 2) not rattle your neighbors and roommates awake when you want to squeeze in a few rounds of Apex before bed.
You’ll also want to consider speakers with integrated Dolby or DTS audio processing, which can provide object-spatial audio without a headset. This allows you to pinpoint audio cues like enemy footsteps and gunfire to press your advantage or fall back and regroup.
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Choose this gaming speaker… |
If you need… |
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Logitech G560 |
A well-rounded speaker system for PC gaming that also features RGB lighting. The Logitech G560 is a powerful and versatile speaker system that offers excellent audio quality for PC gaming. It features DTS:X Ultra Surround Sound, a dedicated subwoofer for deep bass notes, and reactive RGB lighting that adds a visual flair to your gaming setup. |
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Creative Labs Pebble 2.0 |
A budget-friendly pair of PC gaming speakers. The Creative Labs Pebble 2.0 is an affordable option for those looking for a simple and compact set of speakers for their PC gaming setup. They’re lightweight, easy to set up, and don’t require an external power source, making them ideal for always on-the-go. |
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SteelSeries Arena 9 |
A high-end PC gaming sound system with premium features, the SteelSeries Arena 9 is a premium gaming speaker system with wireless and wired speakers and a dedicated subwoofer to provide true 5.1CH surround sound. It also has a separate control pod that allows for easy settings adjustments. |
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Samsung HW-S50B |
A quality soundbar for console gaming. The Samsung HW-S50B supports Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS Virtual:X audio as well as dual Bluetooth connections and adaptive sound. |
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BlueAnt Soundblade |
A compact desktop speaker that can be placed under a monitor or laptop. The Soundblade’s design makes it ideal for both console and PC gamers who are short on space. |
While shopping for a set of gaming speakers, there are a few things to keep in mind before making a purchase:
- Price: Setting and sticking to a budget not only helps prevent overspending but also helps you focus on getting the best value for your money. Keeping to a budget lets you narrow your choices for easier comparisons between features like Dolby vs. DTS audio, RGB lighting, and connectivity options.
- Connectivity: Nothing is worse than opening a set of fancy gaming speakers only to discover that they won’t connect to your gaming PC for whatever reason. Many new models use Bluetooth for wireless connectivity, which is great for smaller spaces where wires can be a trip hazard. Others use USB or 3.5mm AUX hardwire connections. Double-check your speakers and PC to make sure they’ll be compatible.
- Compatibility: Not all gaming speakers are created equal. While the majority are made for use exclusively with PCs and laptops, some offer compatibility with Android and iOS mobile devices, game consoles like the PS5 or Nintendo Switch, and even alternative PC operating systems like Linux and MacOS. Double-check your speakers to ensure they’re compatible with whatever you use to play games.
While testing and researching each set of gaming speakers featured on this list, I and other ZDNET experts kept these criteria in mind:
- Audio quality: Just because a set of gaming speakers is expensive doesn’t automatically mean they’ll provide a high-end audio experience. Many mid-range and budget-friendly models offer excellent audio quality via Dolby or DTS support, built-in subwoofers, and high-quality interference reduction-like insulation.
- Simultaneous connectivity: Gamers rarely stick to a single platform anymore, making it essential for quality gaming speakers to connect to multiple devices simultaneously or quickly and easily connect and disconnect when switching between consoles, mobile devices, and PCs/laptops.
- EQ profiles: Many new gaming speakers are supported by proprietary desktop apps that allow you to create custom equalization profiles for everything from streaming shows and movies to live streaming, recording podcasts, and even game-specific audio profiles to get the most out of your new audio system.
All digital audio processing drivers will give you great sound for both PC and console gaming. However, not all audio drivers and technology are created equal. Dolby is the undisputed king of home audio, and gaming speakers that use Dolby Atmos can create virtual surround sound for a more immersive experience without a headset.
Another popular audio driver is DTS, which is similar to Dolby’s basic offerings. It boosts bass notes for bone-rattling boss music and explosions and isolates mid and high tones for crystal-clear dialogue and cleaner music tracks.
The folks over at Xbox certainly think so. But if you don’t want to take their word for it, here’s a breakdown of what Dolby Atmos is and what it can do for your gaming audio:
At its core, Dolby Atmos is an audio processing algorithm designed to replicate true surround sound in single or dual-speaker setups. If you invest in a dedicated sound system for your PC or console gaming setup, a Dolby Atmos-enabled soundbar or speakers can replicate the spatial audio you experience with high-end gaming headsets. This means that even without a headset, you can still clearly pick up in-game audio cues like footsteps, enemy fire, or environmental sounds.
Gaming with a soundbar also means you will have more freedom to move about your space, mainly if you use wireless controllers, mice, and keyboards. Plus, you will not have to worry about charging a headset during gaming sessions.
The downside of a dedicated Dolby Atmos-enabled sound system is the space it takes up. Even the smallest soundbars and bookshelf speakers take up more space than a typical headset, so you will want to plan and take measurements to ensure everything will fit. You also need to be considerate of your roommates and neighbors, so choose a soundbar or speaker system that will not disturb everyone in the early morning hours while still providing you with a more immersive gaming experience.
It depends on the type of pro gamers. ESports pros will almost exclusively use headsets to communicate with teammates during tournaments, and headsets also allow them to focus on crucial in-game audio cues instead of a noisy stadium. Content creators like Twitch streamers and YouTubers use a mix of headsets and dedicated sound systems. Headsets are perfect for capturing audio and voice chat in multiplayer games since recording and playback hardware and software are built into a single, convenient unit.
However, dedicated sound systems are better for pre-recorded long plays, where a creator may want to appreciate the game’s sound design, dialogue, and music with more robust audio technology. This setup also requires a dedicated microphone and noise-isolation/cancellation software to separate the creator’s voice track from the ambient and game audio for easier editing and cleaner commentary sound.
When choosing a gaming speaker, important features to consider include audio quality, compatibility with your device, connectivity options, and the size and shape of the speaker to ensure it fits in your gaming space.
While it’s not essential, having a subwoofer can greatly enhance your gaming experience by providing deep, powerful bass notes that help to immerse you in the game.
Dolby Atmos is an audio processing technology that creates a three-dimensional sound experience, making pinpointing sound cues in games easier. While it’s unnecessary to have in your gaming speaker, it can greatly enhance your gaming experience if your games support it.
More gaming speakers to consider
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If you want great audio without any extra features, the SteelSeries Arena 3 skips flashy RGB lighting schemes for an understated, all-black aesthetic at home in both gaming spaces and home offices if your gaming rig and work PC are the same computer.
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If you’re a Mac user looking to get into gaming, the Razer Nommo V2 X is a great option for enhanced audio, featuring native MacOS support and THX spatial audio.
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The Amazon Basics stereo PC speakers are an excellent option for laptop and desktop PC gamers looking to boost game volume without spending a fortune. They connect via 3.5mm AUX, making them perfect for laptops, desktops, and mobile devices.
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