Are Soundbars Better Than Speakers for PCs?

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Are Soundbars Better Than Speakers for PCs?

The truth is, neither soundbars nor traditional speakers are universally better for a PC. Desktop speakers typically provide superior sound quality, bass, and a wider soundstage, whereas soundbars provide a simpler, more compact solution for casual use and clean setups.

Dedicated PC speakers, such as PC gaming speakers, are a better match for users who prioritise audio accuracy for gaming and music. Meanwhile, a soundbar is a better choice for those with limited desk space or those who want an easy setup and a significant upgrade over built-in monitor speakers.

Want to know more about soundbar vs speakers for PCs? Read on for all the answers.

Soundbars and Speakers Defined

Before we compare them, it’s essential to understand the key differences between soundbars and speakers.

A soundbar is a single, elongated unit that contains multiple drivers inside one compact body. It’s designed to deliver wide, room-filling sound without the need for multiple speakers. Soundbars are often chosen for minimalist setups, smaller desks, or casual gaming and entertainment, where space-saving and simplicity matter most.

A speaker setup, on the other hand, usually consists of two or more separate units that project stereo sound with direction and depth. These can range from simple desktop 2.0 speakers to 2.1 systems with a subwoofer, or even expandable 5.1 surround setups. Speakers are best suited for gamers who require precise audio positioning, music listeners who value clarity, and anyone seeking a more immersive experience.

Why You Should Use Speakers

When it comes to a PC setup, speakers are the superior choice if you prioritise:

Sound Quality

Gaming speakers, especially those with separate satellite speakers, can deliver more accurate and richer sound. This is because speakers are designed to be placed independently, allowing them to create a true stereo image. This separation is crucial for delivering a detailed, multi-layered audio experience, from the subtle nuances of your favourite tracks to the critical sound cues in a game.

Deeper Bass

While a soundbar can provide a bass boost over your monitor’s built-in speakers, a dedicated speaker system can take it to a whole new level, depending on the driver size of the speaker. Some PC speakers also allow for the use of separate, larger subwoofers to deliver a much fuller and more potent bass experience that soundbars typically can't match.

Wider Soundstage

Proper speaker placement allows for a more expansive and immersive listening experience. By arranging speakers to form an equilateral triangle with your listening position, you create an accurate soundstage. This is vital for gamers who rely on precise directional sound, such as footsteps or gunfire, to gain a competitive edge. It’s an advantage that a single, horizontal soundbar simply cannot replicate.

Flexibility & Expansion

A multi-speaker setup offers more freedom for precise positioning and can be expanded into a full surround system. This means you can start with a basic pair of stereo speakers and gradually expand your system over time by adding a subwoofer for deeper bass or additional surround speakers. This allows you to slowly create a setup tailored to your needs and budget.

Gaming

For games requiring spatial awareness, a traditional speaker setup offers more accurate directional sound. This is a crucial factor in the soundbar vs speakers debate, as competitive players rely on sound cues to pinpoint enemy locations. The ability to place your speakers to create a true stereo field is also a significant advantage.

Why You Should Use a Soundbar

While speakers offer good audio performance, soundbars have their own compelling benefits. Soundbars are the better choice if you want:

Simplicity

Soundbars are an all-in-one solution that are easy to set up with fewer wires. This plug-and-play convenience makes them a great choice for users who want to upgrade their audio with minimal effort. This is why many people view a soundbar as a suitable alternative to computer speakers.

Space-Saving Setup

A compact soundbar is an excellent option for users with limited desk space. This type of soundbar for PCs can sit neatly under a computer monitor, taking up minimal space while still providing a richer sound experience than your monitor's built-in speakers.

Clean Aesthetics

A desktop soundbar creates a cleaner, more minimalist look on your desk. By combining multiple drivers into one sleek enclosure, a soundbar helps to get rid of the visual clutter and cable mess that can come with a multi-speaker setup, making it ideal for modern workspaces or small home offices.

A Casual Listening Experience

For general use, background music, or improving basic listening experience, a soundbar is a good upgrade from basic monitor speakers. You'll get a wider, more dynamic sound that's perfect for general media consumption.

Budget-Friendly Options

Affordable soundbars can provide a significant improvement without breaking the bank. This makes a soundbar an accessible and cost-effective way to get a much richer and more immersive sound for movies and music without having to invest in a complex multi-speaker system.

Making the Right Choice for Your Needs

For serious gamers or music artists, speakers are the better choice. A soundbar is good for casual entertainment and a cleaner setup. However, soundbars are designed more for home theatre viewing, and their functionality doesn't always translate well to the close-range environment of a desktop PC. If budget is a concern, the good news is that both soundbars and speakers for PCs come in a wide range of prices.

Here's an overview of soundbars vs speakers:

Category	Speakers	Soundbars
Sound Quality	Generally superior, more accurate, and with a wider soundstage	Good all-around sound, great for dialogue-heavy content
Size	Requires space for ideal positioning	Compact and tidy, fits well under a monitor
Customisability	Options to add subwoofers and surround speakers	Limited to preset EQ settings
Connectivity	Wired and wireless options available	Wired and wireless options available
Set Up	Can be complex, requires speaker placement and wiring	Very simple and easy
Price	Can be more expensive for a full, high-quality system	More affordable for a good entry-level option
Value for Money	Better long-term value, if looking for an upgrade path	Provides adequate performance for its price, but is not as expandable

Upgrade Your PC Setup with JBL

Looking for speakers and soundbars designed to fit your needs? Whether you're a serious gamer or a movie enthusiast, you can find the perfect audio solution to elevate your desktop experience with JBL. Our expertly engineered audio gear is designed to deliver powerful, immersive sound with handy features that elevate your listening experience. Shop at JBL New Zealand today to find a sound system that's right for you!

And if you're interested in a similar comparison for a home audio system, check out our other blog post on soundbars vs speakers for your TV.

Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Speakers and Soundbars

Can I use a soundbar for my PC?

Yes, you can use a soundbar with your PC by connecting it via an available port on your computer or soundbar. This is usually a 3.5mm auxiliary jack, an HDMI port, or a Bluetooth connection. Connecting a computer soundbar can significantly improve your audio experience for gaming, movies, and music by providing much richer and more immersive sound than your PC's built-in speakers can offer, making it a great audio upgrade for any desktop.

How does a soundbar work?

A soundbar improves your audio experience by housing multiple speaker drivers (tweeters, midrange drivers, and sometimes woofers) in a single, long enclosure. This design delivers clearer, fuller sound than built-in speakers, creating a wider, more immersive soundstage. Many soundbars also use digital signal processing (DSP) and technologies like Dolby Atmos to simulate surround sound and create overhead audio effects. The soundbar can be connected to your computer or TV via a single cable, most commonly HDMI or an optical audio cable, for a simple and tidy setup, making it a great all-in-one solution for enhanced audio.