The Best USB Speakers for Laptops

USB speakers use a USB connection from your computer to provide audio to the user. The audio stream is typically digital and the power for the speakers is provided from the laptop. When compared to built-in speakers on a laptop, external USB speakers provide better sound quality. Choosing the best USB speakers for a laptop all depends on your needs and budget.

Logitech V20

• The Logitech V20 speakers have a slanted posture making them ideal for tabletop use. The body is silver and gray and the speakers are silver with a black mesh. These speakers provide you with digital audio; making them a suitable for movies and music. The Logitech V20 speakers have a 2 watt output with a 70 Hz to 20 kHz response and use multimedia controls located on the right speaker. A compact travel case that houses the speakers is included.

Altec Lansing XT2

• These speakers have a built in microphone if you wish to use VoIP for phone calls or if you need a microphone for games. The speakers fully utilize the USB connection or can be used with an included AC adapter to plug into the wall. The Altec Lansing XT2 speakers are also compatible with the Altec BB2001 subwoofer, which is optional. These speakers are 2.2 inches-by-1.4 inches-by-7.4 inches and have a 4 watt output using the AC adapter or 1.6 watt, when using the USB power output. The speakers have a 100 HZ to 20 kHz response and use multimedia controls. The unit also features an auxiliary stereo input.

DJ-12 USB Speaker

• The SunWin DJ-12 is a large speaker system. This is a multi-functional speaker system that is suitable for those who love their music and don't have room for multiple media players, such as in a dorm. It can support both SD and MMC cards as well as U Disks, including cell phones that have the U Disk function. It can also read MP3 formats directly from a memory card. A laptop computer connects using a USB cord, which is included. This speaker set also comes with a remote control.

Kensington Pocket Speakers

• These small speakers connect to your computer using a retractable USB cable. The Kensington Pocket Speakers are 4.5 inches-by-2.75 inches-by-1.5 inches when folded. The speakers have a volume wheel and blue lights when the system is turned on. These speakers produce better sound than built-in laptop speakers. However, the volume is low when compared to larger laptop speakers. With the small size and weighing 9.6 oz., these pocket speakers work well for traveling.

Tritton Technologies Sound Bite

• The Sound Bite speakers look much like a hockey puck when they are folded. The Sound Bite has a USB cable that is permanently connected, which is kept neatly in the base of the unit. This speaker set has three speakers which consist of two 1-inch satellite speakers and a 2-inch subwoofer. Though this unit may be a little larger than others on the market, it's still small enough in size to fit into your laptop bag and it weighs 9.9 oz. The Tritton Technologies Sound Bite doesn't have an audio input jack, which means that you can't use it with an iPod or similar device.