Are Soundbars Better Than Speakers for PCs?

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Are Soundbars Better Than Speakers for PCs?

TL;DR, no, soundbars are typically not better than dedicated speakers for a PC, as speakers (especially gaming speakers) typically provide superior sound quality, deeper bass, and more accurate spatial awareness.

Soundbars, however, may be better for simplifying setups, decluttering desks, and for users who prioritise convenience and a cleaner aesthetic over optimal audio.

So, if you're asking, "Are soundbars better than speakers for PCs?", the answer depends on your unique needs. This guide will help you decide if computer speakers or a soundbar is the right choice for you.

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.

Computer Speakers vs Soundbars

Before we dive into the details, it’s important to understand the differences between these two audio solutions. A soundbar is an all-in-one unit that houses multiple speaker drivers in a single, horizontal enclosure. It's designed to provide a wide soundstage from one compact device.

On the flip side, a desktop speaker consists of individual speakers that can be placed separately from each other. Some desktop speaker systems may include a subwoofer for bass. This physical separation is the key to their unique benefits, especially in a home setup for gaming or working.

Why Speakers Are the Pros' Pick for PCs

For most users, especially gamers and audiophiles, dedicated speakers offer a clear advantage in a PC setup as they provide:

Excellent Sound Quality

Dedicated speakers, especially those with larger drivers, can provide better sound quality and a wider soundstage compared to a soundbar.

The reason is simple: 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 songs to the critical sound cues in a game.

Deeper Bass

While a soundbar might provide a bass boost over your monitor’s built-in speakers, a dedicated speaker system is in another league. Speakers allow for the use of separate, larger subwoofers, delivering a much fuller and more potent bass experience that soundbars typically can't match. This is a game-changer for bass-heavy music, immersive movie watching, and feeling the rumble of explosions in a game.

More Precise Sound

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 — like footsteps or gunfire — to gain a competitive edge. It’s an advantage that a single, horizontal soundbar simply cannot replicate.

Flexibility and Upgradability

A multi-speaker system offers flexibility and an upgrade path that a soundbar cannot. 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 build a complete home theatre or gaming setup that is tailored to your specific needs and budget, giving you complete control over your audio experience.

Near-Field Listening

Since most soundbars are designed for home theatres and large spaces, they are not ideal for close-range desktop environments where dedicated speakers excel.

Desktop gaming speakers, on the other hand, are specifically designed for near-field listening, which is the close distance between you and the speakers in a typical desk setup. This ensures you get a superior audio experience optimised for your desk setup, providing detailed and balanced sound from a close distance.

When a Soundbar Might Be Your Perfect Fit

Despite the many advantages of dedicated speakers, there are specific scenarios where a soundbar for your PC can be a good choice, such as:

Limited Space

If desk space is a major concern, a compact soundbar could offer a significant audio upgrade over monitor speakers without adding extra clutter. A soundbar for monitors can sit neatly under your screen, taking up minimal space while still providing a much richer sound experience. This makes it an ideal solution for small workspaces or minimalist setups.

Convenience

Soundbars are an all-in-one solution, making them incredibly easy to set up and use, especially for those who prefer minimal wires and complexity. Most connect via a single cable (HDMI or USB-C) or wirelessly via Bluetooth, keeping your desk tidy. This plug-and-play convenience makes them a great choice for users who want to upgrade their audio with minimal effort.

For General Entertainment

For casual use, watching movies, or playing cosy games without a strong focus on spatial audio, a soundbar provides adequate performance. You'll get a wider, more dynamic sound than your monitor's built-in speakers, which is perfect for general media consumption where pinpoint audio cues aren't critical.

Upgrade from Built-in Speakers

If you're currently relying on your device's built-in speakers, a soundbar is a considerable improvement for casual use. It's a simple, effective, and affordable way to get a much richer and more immersive sound for movies and music.

When a Soundbar Might Be Your Perfect Fit

Which is Right for You? Making the Decision

Ultimately, the choice between a soundbar vs speakers for PCs often comes down to three things: desk space, budget, and purpose.

Category	Speakers	Soundbars
Sound Quality	More detailed and dynamic Great for music and gaming True stereo from physical separation	Good all-around sound Great for dialogue-heavy content Virtual surround is possible with Dolby Atmos or DTS
Size	Can be bulky 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
Price	Can be more expensive for a full, high-quality system Entry-level options available	More affordable for a good entry-level option
Value for Money	Better long-term value, with an upgrade path	Provides adequate performance Not as expandable

As we’ve covered earlier, the consensus is that for dedicated PC setups, especially for gaming, speakers are the clear winner. But if you’re working with a small desk or want to keep cables to a minimum, a soundbar may be a decent choice.

Give Your PC Setup a Boost with JBL

Never compromise on your sound! Whether you're battling it out in a virtual world or binge-watching your favourite series, JBL has the best soundbars and speakers for PCs, engineered to fit your needs. Shop at JBL Australia today to find a sound system that's right for you.

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, such as a 3.5mm auxiliary jack, HDMI port, or Bluetooth connection. Connecting a soundbar for monitors can 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 your 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 use digital signal processing (DSP) and technologies like Dolby Atmos to simulate surround sound and create overhead audio effects. The soundbar connects to your computer or TV via a single cable, most commonly HDMI or an optical audio cable, for a simple and tidy setup.

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