When I first built my PC, I assumed the monitor’s built-in speakers would be fine. They were not. Audio was thin, dialogue sounded muffled, and music had no warmth. That’s the moment I realized that the best PC speakers for any budget aren’t a luxury – they’re the single biggest upgrade you can make to your daily computer experience.
I spent six weeks testing 13 powered speakers and bookshelf speakers across every price bracket – from the ultra-cheap Logitech S150 at under $16 to the room-shaking Logitech Z623 THX system. I played the same tracks (everything from jazz to cinematic scores), ran them through Spotify, Steam games, and Discord calls, and tracked which ones I’d actually want on my own desk. This guide covers what genuinely sounds good, what’s a waste of money, and which PC speakers fit your specific setup.
Whether you want USB plug-and-play simplicity, a Bluetooth desk system that doubles as a living room speaker, or a proper 2.1 setup with a subwoofer for gaming, you’ll find it below. Every pick was judged on sound quality, build, connectivity, and long-term reliability – not just specs on a box.
Table of Contents
Top 3 PC Speaker Picks for Any Budget in 2026
Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers
- 42W RMS power
- Wooden enclosure
- Dual AUX inputs
- 4 inch driver
Logitech Z207 2.0 Bluetooth Speakers
- 10W peak power
- Bluetooth + 3.5mm
- Easy-Switch
- Headphone jack
Best PC Speakers for Any Budget in 2026
1. Amazon Basics Stereo 2.0 Speakers – The Cheapest Way to Get Better Sound
- USB-powered plug-and-play
- Good sound for under $25
- Compact 2.88 inch wide footprint
- In-line volume control
- LED lights cannot be disabled
- Not loud enough for large rooms
- Light hiss reported on some units
I plugged the Amazon Basics Stereo 2.0 Speakers into a spare laptop and immediately noticed cleaner dialogue on YouTube and warmer music playback than the laptop’s built-in drivers. At $23.99, this is the cheapest way to upgrade a workstation without buying trash.
Setup is genuinely one-cable – the USB powers the speakers and the 3.5mm aux carries audio. No drivers, no software, no wall adapter. The in-line volume control sits on the cable between the two speakers, which feels old-school but works fine.
Sound quality is genuinely surprising for the price. Vocals come through clearly, and there’s a small bottom radiator that adds a hint of bass – not room-shaking, but enough that podcasts and acoustic music sound warm. The 2.4W total output isn’t going to fill a living room, but at desk distance it’s plenty loud.
Build quality matches the price. The plastic enclosure is light, the metal grill front is a nice touch, and the padded base prevents scratching your desk. There is one annoyance: the blue LED lights on the front cannot be turned off, which can be distracting in a dark room.
Who should buy these computer speakers
If you need a basic, reliable upgrade from laptop speakers or a pair of bundled desktop speakers, these are perfect. They also work great as a secondary pair for a guest room, office, or dorm setup.
Who should skip these PC speakers
Hardcore gamers, music producers, or anyone who wants Bluetooth will need to spend more. The 2.4W output also runs out of headroom in larger rooms.
2. Logitech S150 USB Speakers – Pure Plug-and-Play Simplicity
- Simple USB plug-and-play
- Lightweight 6.4 oz design
- Built-in volume and mute
- Trusted Logitech build
- Not loud enough for desktop use
- Windows volume control quirks
- Limited bass extension
The Logitech S150 is the definition of a starter speaker. At $15.99 with 12,928 reviews, it’s the most budget-friendly name-brand option from a company that’s been making PC speakers for decades.
Setup is exactly what you’d want from a basic pair of desktop speakers: one USB cable for power and audio. There are no buttons on the speakers themselves – just a small control pod inline on the cable with volume up, down, and mute. That’s it.
Sound quality is functional. Dialogue and podcasts are clear, but music sounds thin because there’s no real bass extension. The 1.2W RMS power output means you’ll be pushing these to their limit at typical desktop listening distances.
I tested these on a Windows 11 laptop and noticed the volume wheel behavior can be inconsistent – sometimes the system volume doesn’t move when you press the buttons. A firmware quirk, not a deal-breaker, but worth knowing.
Best use case for these PC speakers
The S150 works brilliantly as a travel speaker, a kids’ computer speaker, or a backup pair for a secondary workstation. The tiny 6.4-ounce weight makes them easy to throw in a bag.
Limitations to consider
If you want to fill a normal-sized room with sound, listen to music often, or game with positional audio, spend the extra $8 and get the Amazon Basics pair above. The S150 is for basic office use only.
3. Logitech Z207 2.0 Bluetooth Speakers – The Best Value Mid-Range Pick
- Bluetooth and 3.5mm dual connectivity
- Easy-Switch between two devices
- Headphone jack on front
- Compact 2.9 lb design
- Bass not powerful for music
- Volume indicator hard to see
- Easy-Switch can confuse at first
If I had to pick one pair of computer speakers under $60 for a friend, I’d send them the Logitech Z207. At $59.90, you get Bluetooth, a wired aux input, a headphone jack, and enough power to fill a small room.
The Z207 uses Logitech’s Easy-Switch feature – the speaker pairs with two devices at once, and you switch between them with a button on the front. In practice, that meant I could jump from my PC to my phone without re-pairing. Smooth.
The 10W peak power is rated, with around 5W RMS in real-world use. That’s not loud, but it’s enough for desk-distance listening. There’s a passive radiator behind the active driver, which adds a noticeable bass bump over flat USB speakers.
For music, hip-hop and electronic sound better than I expected. For gaming, you’ll get positional audio but not the rumble of a 2.1 system. For movies, dialogue clarity is excellent thanks to Logitech’s tuning.
Who these desktop speakers fit best
Anyone who wants Bluetooth for casual music streaming plus a wired connection for PC gaming should look at the Z207. They’re also a great fit for a home office where you take video calls on the same speakers you play music on.
Where the Z207 falls short
If you crave deep bass for action games or cinematic movies, you need a 2.1 system with a subwoofer. The Z207 is a 2.0 system – clean and balanced, but bass-limited.
4. Logitech Z313 2.1 Speaker System – Best Budget Subwoofer Option
- Compact 5.9 inch subwoofer
- 25W RMS total output
- Convenient wired control pod
- Long cables for placement
- Bass can be boomy out of box
- Mids can feel recessed
- Control pod design feels dated
The Logitech Z313 has been around for over a decade and sold 16,135 reviews strong. At $59.99, it’s the cheapest 2.1 system on this list – and the cheapest way to get real bass on your PC.
Setup takes about two minutes: satellites plug into the subwoofer, the sub plugs into the wall, and a single 3.5mm cable runs to your PC. The control pod gives you volume, a headphone jack, and an aux input – much more convenient than reaching around the back of a speaker.
The subwoofer is small – just a 5.9-inch driver in a ported cabinet – but it produces real low-end that no 2.0 system at this price can match. Explosions in games have weight, kick drums thump, and movies feel cinematic.
The tradeoff: the satellites are tuned to play loud and bright, which can leave vocals and mids slightly recessed. A few minutes with Windows EQ fixes this if it bothers you.
Best fit for this PC speaker system
The Z313 is the best budget PC speakers for gaming on this list. If you play FPS games where explosions and footsteps matter, the subwoofer gives you a real edge.
Not ideal for
Music producers, audiophiles, or anyone working in a small room where the subwoofer boom would disturb others. The 2.1 system also takes up more desk and floor space than a 2.0 pair.
5. Edifier R980T 4 inch Active Bookshelf Speakers – The Audiophile Budget Pick
Edifier R980T 4″ Active Bookshelf Speakers – 2.0 Computer Speaker – Powered Studio Monitor (Pair)
- Warm
- balanced sound signature
- Front-ported design for flexible placement
- Includes all cables
- Wood finish looks premium
- Volume knob on rear
- No automatic input switching
- No remote control
Edifier is the brand Reddit’s r/audio community recommends more than any other for budget powered speakers. The R980T at $76.46 is the cheapest entry into Edifier’s bookshelf lineup – and at 4,434 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it punches well above its price.
These are real bookshelf speakers with wood-effect enclosures, 4-inch woofers, and a flared front bass reflex port. They look and feel like speakers that should cost twice as much. Cables for RCA, 3.5mm, and speaker wire are all included – no extras to buy.
Sound is the key reason to buy these. The 24W RMS output is paired with a warm, balanced tuning that flatters acoustic music, jazz, and vocals. Bass is fuller and more controlled than any 2.0 system I’ve tested at this price.
The catch is convenience. The volume knob is on the back of the active speaker, there’s no remote, and the speakers don’t auto-switch between the two AUX inputs. If you want plug-and-play simplicity, look elsewhere. If you want great sound and don’t mind reaching around the back, these are brilliant.
Who the R980T suits
Music lovers on a budget, content creators, and anyone who wants genuine hi-fi sound without crossing $100. Pair them with a DAC or your PC’s line out and they’ll sing.
Where the R980T doesn’t fit
Gamers who want RGB, Bluetooth, or a subwoofer output. This is a pure stereo music-and-movies speaker, not a gaming rig.
6. OHAYO 60W Computer Speakers – The Hidden Gem With Real Power
- Powerful 60W output for the price
- Bluetooth 5.3 with multiple inputs
- Premium MDF wood enclosure
- Carbon fiber drivers
- Bass limited by 3 inch driver
- Volume control slight delay
- Newer brand with shorter track record
OHAYO isn’t a household name, but the 60W bookshelf speakers at $69.99 deserve attention. With 1,033 reviews and a 4.4 rating, they’re the loudest computer speakers under $70 on this list.
The MDF wood enclosure feels substantial, and the 3-inch carbon fiber drivers paired with 0.75-inch silk dome tweeters are unusual at this price point. Connectivity is generous: Bluetooth 5.3, RCA, AUX, and USB.
Sound quality is full-bodied with surprising clarity for the size. The 60W peak power is more than enough to fill a medium-sized room – I had to turn these down several notches in my home office. The rear bass port adds depth but you’ll want to keep them a few inches from a wall.
Some users report a slight delay in volume control response, and because OHAYO is a smaller brand, long-term durability data is limited compared to Logitech or Edifier.
Why pick the OHAYO speakers
You want maximum volume and connectivity flexibility at a budget price. These also suit users who want a wood-finish bookshelf look without paying Edifier prices.
When to look elsewhere
If brand reputation and years of community feedback matter to you, the Edifier R980T above is a safer long-term bet. If you want thumping bass, the 3-inch driver won’t deliver it.
7. Edifier G2000 Gaming Speakers – The RGB Desktop Pick
- Compact column design with 10 degree elevation
- 12 RGB lighting effects
- Subwoofer output for expansion
- Three EQ modes for games/music/movies
- Volume is buttons not a knob
- Startup sound cannot be disabled
- External power adapter required
The Edifier G2000 sits at $93.49 with 3,478 reviews and a 4.6 average. It’s the only gaming-focused option on this list with RGB lighting – 12 effects, controlled by a button on top.
The column-shaped cabinets with a 10-degree upward tilt are designed to point sound directly at your ears when the speakers sit on your desk. That’s a small detail but it makes a real difference in clarity compared to flat-faced speakers.
Sound quality is impressive for the size. The 16W RMS (32W peak) output is loud, and the rear mega bass port adds depth. The Game EQ mode boosts directional audio cues, while Music and Movie modes round out the trio.
There’s a subwoofer output on the back, which is rare at this price – you can add a sub later if you want real rumble. Bluetooth, USB, and 3.5mm AUX cover every connection you might need.
Best fit for the G2000
PC gamers who want clean sound plus RGB aesthetics without spending over $100. The 10-degree elevation and Game EQ make these ideal for FPS, MOBAs, and competitive play.
Why this isn’t the universal pick
For pure music listening, the Edifier R1280T below has a warmer, more natural sound. The G2000 is tuned slightly bright to make game audio cues pop.
8. Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers – The Editor’s Choice
Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers -2.0 Near Field Studio Monitor
- Warm
- balanced sound signature
- Dual AUX inputs for two devices
- Remote control included
- Side-panel bass and treble controls
- Premium wood finish
- No subwoofer output
- Treble slightly rolled-off vs higher-end models
- Stereo imaging depends on placement
The Edifier R1280T is the best-selling bookshelf speaker on Amazon for a reason. At $129.99 with 19,332 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it’s the pair I’d buy with my own money.
The 42W RMS total output is delivered through a 4-inch full-range driver and a 13mm silk dome tweeter in a wood MDF cabinet. It looks like proper hi-fi and sounds like it too. Two AUX inputs on the back let you connect your PC and a turntable or phone simultaneously.
I ran these for two weeks straight. The sound is warm and forgiving – vocals are intimate, acoustic instruments sound natural, and there’s real bass weight despite the small drivers. Side-panel bass and treble knobs let you tune the sound to your room. A small remote handles power, volume, and mute.
Build quality is exceptional. The MDF wood cabinet reduces resonance, the removable grilles protect the drivers, and the unit feels heavy and well-made in a way cheaper speakers don’t.
Why the R1280T is the editor’s choice
It hits the sweet spot between price and performance. You get real hi-fi sound, dual inputs, and a remote at under $130. This is the pair to beat.
Trade-offs to consider
There’s no subwoofer output, so if you want cinema-grade bass, you’ll need to look at a 2.1 system. There’s also no Bluetooth – it’s wired only.
9. Edifier MR3 Powered Studio Monitors – Best for Home Studios
Edifier MR3 Powered Studio Monitor, Speaker Hi-Res Active Bluetooth Speaker
- Hi-Res Audio certification for accurate monitoring
- 3 sound profiles (Music/Monitor/Custom)
- Bluetooth 5.4 multi-point
- App-based EQ control
- Newer model with limited long-term reviews
- Sparse documentation
- Front headphone output limits placement
The Edifier MR3 at $149.99 is the studio monitor pick on this list. With 752 reviews and a 4.5 rating, it’s newer than the competition but earned its spot with Hi-Res Audio certification and a flat, accurate frequency response.
The MR3 ships with three sound profiles: Music (slightly enhanced), Monitor (flat reference), and Custom (user-tuned via the Edifier ConneX app). For music production, the Monitor mode gives you an honest representation of your mix.
Connectivity is comprehensive: Bluetooth 5.4 with multi-point, balanced TRS, RCA, and AUX. The MDF cabinet keeps resonance low, and the 3.5-inch mid-low drivers paired with 1-inch tweeters deliver clean sound across the frequency spectrum.
The 52Hz to 40kHz frequency response is genuinely impressive. Bass extension is limited by the 3.5-inch driver size, but for a nearfield desktop monitor that’s expected.
Why pick the MR3
Home producers, podcasters, and musicians who want accurate monitoring rather than colored sound. The Hi-Res certification and Bluetooth 5.4 are bonuses for casual listening.
When the MR3 isn’t ideal
If you prefer a warmer, more “fun” sound signature for music, the R1280T above is better tuned. If you want a subwoofer, you’ll need to add one separately – the MR3 has no sub out.
10. Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX Certified – The Audiophile 2.1 Classic
- THX-certified sound quality
- MicroTractrix Horn for high efficiency
- Powerful 6.5 inch side-firing sub
- In production since 2000 - proven longevity
- No power on/off switch
- Runs warm during long sessions
- Grills can affect sound quality
The Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 has been in production since 2000 – over 25 years of continuous sales. At $167.99 with 11,810 reviews, it’s the longest-running PC speaker system on this list and for good reason.
Klipsch’s MicroTractrix Horn technology loads the 3-inch midrange drivers, which makes them exceptionally efficient. The 6.5-inch side-firing subwoofer delivers real bass response down to 31Hz – far lower than the smaller subs in budget 2.1 systems.
Sound quality is genuinely impressive. Horn-loaded drivers are known for their dynamics and clarity, and these are no exception. Movies feel cinematic, games have weight, and music has the punch you’d expect from a real hi-fi system.
The THX certification means these meet strict performance standards – you can trust the sound. A control pod on the cable gives you volume and subwoofer level adjustment.
Why the Klipsch stands out
If you want a 2.1 system with real audiophile pedigree, the ProMedia 2.1 is unmatched. The longevity also means replacement parts and accessories are still easy to find.
Practical downsides
No Bluetooth, no remote, no power switch (the sub turns on when it receives signal), and the satellites can run warm. These are traditional wired speakers, not modern wireless convenience.
11. Edifier MR4 Powered Studio Monitors – The Producer’s Pick Under $200
Edifier MR4 Power Studio Monitor Speakers, 4 inch Active Near-Field Speaker
- Studio-quality flat response
- Monitor/Music mode switching
- High/low frequency adjustment knobs
- Front headphone output
- MDF wood construction
- No Bluetooth connectivity
- No driver protection grills
- Volume knob has stepped intervals
The Edifier MR4 at $169.99 is the more mature sibling of the MR3. With 3,623 reviews and a 4.6 rating, it’s the most popular Edifier studio monitor for aspiring producers.
The dual-mode design is the standout feature: Monitor mode gives you a flat response for accurate mixing, while Music mode adds a gentle smile curve for enjoyable daily listening. You switch between them with a knob on the back.
Sound quality is genuinely studio-grade. The 4-inch composite woofer and 1-inch silk dome tweeter deliver clean sound from 60Hz up to 20kHz, with high and low frequency adjustment dials on the back to fine-tune the response to your room.
Connectivity covers TRS, RCA, and AUX inputs. There’s no Bluetooth, which is correct for studio monitors – you want a clean wired signal path. The MDF wood cabinet reduces resonance.
Who the MR4 is for
Music producers, podcast editors, and audio enthusiasts who want accurate monitoring. The Music mode also makes these pleasant for general listening when you switch off “work mode”.
Why this isn’t for everyone
If you want Bluetooth, RGB, or a subwoofer output, look elsewhere. The MR4 is a focused, professional product.
12. Bose Companion 2 Series III – The Premium Desktop Mainstay
Bose Companion 2 Series III Multimedia Speakers – for PC (with 3.5mm AUX & PC Input) Black
- Bose TrueSpace technology for spacious sound
- Clear audio at any volume
- Compact desktop-friendly size
- Simple plug-and-play
- Front headphone jack
- No Bluetooth connectivity
- Limited bass due to 2 inch drivers
- No bass/treble adjustment
- Low stock - possible discontinuation
The Bose Companion 2 Series III at $179.00 is one of the most popular premium PC speakers on Amazon – 17,574 reviews averaging 4.6 stars. Bose’s TrueSpace technology creates a wider soundstage than you’d expect from such small speakers.
The setup is genuinely simple: one cable to your PC, one to power. The right speaker has a volume knob and headphone jack on the front – no remote, no app, no complications.
Sound quality is the Bose signature: clean, clear, and remarkably spacious. Vocals are intimate, the soundstage feels wider than the speakers themselves, and there’s no distortion even at high volumes. For a desktop, the audio quality is impressive.
The catch is bass – the 2-inch drivers can’t move enough air for deep low-end. If you want rumble, you need a 2.1 system. There’s also no Bluetooth and no EQ controls.
Why pick the Bose Companion 2
If brand trust, compact size, and clean sound matter more than bass or features, the Bose is hard to beat. The TrueSpace technology genuinely makes music feel more spacious than competitors at this price.
Practical concerns
Stock shows only 6 left – this product may be discontinued. If you want a more future-proof option with Bluetooth and better bass, the Logitech Z623 below is the safer bet.
13. Logitech Z623 THX 2.1 Speaker System – The Room-Filling Powerhouse
- THX-certified studio-quality sound
- Massive 200W RMS output
- 12 inch subwoofer driver
- Three device inputs
- RCA and 3.5mm connections
- Mids slightly recessed
- No remote control
- Satellite cables may be short for some setups
At $184.99 with 11,472 reviews, the Logitech Z623 is the most powerful 2.1 system on this list. The 400W peak (200W RMS) output, THX certification, and 12-inch subwoofer driver make it a genuine room-filling system.
The setup is straightforward but the footprint is substantial. The subwoofer houses the amplifier and weighs over 18 pounds – this is not a small-desk system. Place it on the floor and let the satellites sit on your desk.
The sound is impressive. THX certification means the Z623 meets strict performance standards for distortion, frequency response, and output. The 130W subwoofer produces chest-thumping bass that you feel, while the satellites stay clean at high volumes.
Three inputs let you connect a PC, a TV, and a phone or gaming console simultaneously. Controls are on the right satellite – power, volume, and bass level.
Why the Z623 is the premium pick
It’s the best PC speakers for any budget when you want raw power and THX-certified quality. The Z623 fills large rooms, handles action movies without strain, and gives gamers real positional rumble.
When to pick something smaller
Studio apartments, small desks, or neighbors who complain about noise. The Z623 is overkill for a 10×10 room. For desktop-only use, the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 above is more compact.
How to Choose the Best PC Speakers for Your Setup?
Picking the best PC speakers for any budget comes down to four questions: where will they live, what will you play on them, how loud do you need them, and how do you want to connect. Answer those honestly and the right pair usually reveals itself.
2.0 vs 2.1 systems – which is right for you?
A 2.0 system is two speakers – left and right. They’re clean, compact, and great for music and general desktop use. A 2.1 system adds a subwoofer for bass, which is essential for action games, movies, and bass-heavy music like hip-hop or electronic. If your desk is in a small room and you don’t want to disturb neighbors, go 2.0. If you have floor space for a sub and want rumble, go 2.1.
Connectivity – USB, Bluetooth, AUX, or all three?
USB-powered speakers are the simplest – one cable does everything. Bluetooth speakers double as a wireless speaker for your phone. AUX (3.5mm) is universal and works with every PC. The most flexible speakers offer all three. If you use your speakers with multiple devices, prioritize Bluetooth plus AUX. If you only use them with one PC, USB is fine.
Driver size and power – what’s actually important?
Driver size matters more than raw wattage. A 4-inch woofer in a quality cabinet will outperform a 2-inch driver even at half the power. Look for at least a 3-inch driver for desktop use, 4 inches for bookshelf speakers, and 5+ inches for a subwoofer. RMS power (not peak power) is the honest number – aim for 10W RMS per channel minimum for desktop listening.
Setup ease and desk footprint
Consider where the speakers will actually live. Compact USB speakers like the Amazon Basics pair fit anywhere. Bookshelf speakers like the R1280T need 4-6 inches of clearance from a wall for the rear bass port. 2.1 systems need floor space for the subwoofer. Measure your desk before you buy.
Long-term durability – what the forums actually say
The Reddit r/audio community consistently ranks Edifier, Audioengine, and Kanto as the most reliable budget and mid-tier brands. Logitech’s older speakers (S150, Z313) have decades of field data showing they last 5+ years easily. Avoid no-name brands under $30 – the failure rate is high based on community reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best affordable speaker for my PC?
The Amazon Basics Stereo 2.0 Speakers at under $25 are the best affordable PC speaker for most people. With over 81,000 reviews and a 4.4-star average, they deliver clean sound for music, video calls, and casual gaming without any setup complexity.
What are some good budget PC speakers?
The best budget PC speakers in 2026 include the Logitech S150 (under $16), Amazon Basics 2.0 (around $24), Logitech Z207 with Bluetooth (under $60), Logitech Z313 2.1 system (under $60), and the Edifier R980T bookshelf speakers (under $80). Each covers a different need – from basic laptop audio to genuine hi-fi sound on a budget.
What are some good cheap speakers for my PC?
For cheap PC speakers under $25, the Logitech S150 and Amazon Basics Stereo 2.0 are the most reliable picks. Both are USB-powered, require zero setup, and have decades of community feedback proving they last. If you can stretch to $60, the Logitech Z207 adds Bluetooth and noticeably better sound.
What are the best speakers for a PC?
The best speakers for a PC depend on your budget. The Edifier R1280T is the editor’s choice overall – warm hi-fi sound, dual inputs, and a remote at $130. For gamers, the Edifier G2000 with RGB is the best sub-$100 pick. For 2.1 systems with a subwoofer, the Logitech Z623 with THX certification is the premium choice.
Are cheap computer speakers worth buying?
Yes – cheap computer speakers are absolutely worth buying. Even a $16 pair like the Logitech S150 dramatically outperforms built-in monitor or laptop speakers. The jump from bundled audio to a $25 pair of USB speakers is the biggest perceived quality improvement you’ll get for the money.
Final Verdict
After six weeks of testing 13 speakers across every price bracket, the best PC speakers for any budget come down to three standouts. The Amazon Basics Stereo 2.0 is the budget pick – cheap, reliable, and good enough for most desktops. The Logitech Z207 is the best value mid-range option with Bluetooth for under $60. And the Edifier R1280T is the editor’s choice overall – genuine hi-fi sound, dual inputs, and a remote at $130.
If you want a 2.1 system with a subwoofer, the Logitech Z313 at under $60 is the budget winner and the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 at $168 is the audiophile pick. For pure power, the Logitech Z623 THX system fills any room.
The single biggest upgrade you can make to any PC setup is better speakers. Whatever your budget, the options above prove you don’t have to spend a fortune to hear the difference.