Dirt Cheap Computer Speakers: AmazonBasics USB-Powered Speakers

Inexpensive Speakers for a Laptop or Desktop Computer

Two years ago, we ordered some inexpensive speakers for my wife's desktop computer.  I didn't write about them.  They were small and cheap.  But, after two years, they still put out nice sound and they are still working well.  Since they keep on working and my wife is happy with them, it is certainly worth giving them a shout.  They are AmazonBasics USB-Powered Speakers.  They pack a whopping 3 watts of power (1.5 per speaker) and actually sound pretty nice. 

AmazonBasics USB-Powered Speakers

One Amazon reviewer compared them to a nice desktop radio.  I think they may sound a little better than that.  The speakers have been able to sound pleasant throughout our living room whenever my wife has played music videos on Youtube.  The sound quality is good, but the bass is weak due to the size and power of the speaker.  This may actually be an advantage in an apartment since we don't want to inflict bass on neighbors too much.

The cord lengths provide plenty of room to separate the speakers on opposite sides of a computer desk.  A generous 53-inch cord between speakers gives you a lot of options.  The USB cable to the PC is nearly six foot and will allow you to place these on a shelf above the PC.  Since these speakers are USB-powered, there is no extra power cord and A/C adapter to worry about.  My wife hates the extra cords associated with a PC and these don't add a burdensome bundle of cords to the mix.

Another advantage of these speakers is there small size and low center of gravity.  They are about 3-inches by 3-inches and 5-inches high.  We have owned PC speakers from well-known manufacturers that were tall and easy to knock over.  The AmazonBasics manage to stay upright on the desk without any issues.

After two years, these specific speakers have been discontinued, but Amazon offers a similar set for about the same price.  If you are looking for some no nonsense speakers, I would definitely recommend them.