Looking to transform your gaming setup with sound that truly immerses? From thunderous bass to crystal-clear positional audio, the best gaming speakers in 2025 deliver an unbeatable audio experience that brings every bullet, explosion, and soundtrack to life. Whether you want powerful 2.1 systems like the Mackie CR3.5BT + CR8SBT combo or compact, stylish options like Edifier’s G2000, our guide reveals the top speakers that combine performance, design, and value to elevate your gameplay to new heights.
While purchasing a modestly-sized set of speakers means spending significantly more than what you’d pay for a gaming headset, that extra investment will be immediately noticeable in terms of not just volume but overall sound quality. If you’re looking for an audio solution that can illicit more than a few noise complaints and is equipped with RGB lighting, you might want to consider dropping some extra bucks on a set of gaming speakers.
Below, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite models that will fit neatly into any gaming setup or budget, whether you’re looking for a massive 7.1 surround system like the Steelseries Arena 9, or a compact 2.0 system like the Edifier G2000.
Best overall speakers
The best overall gaming speakers combine powerful, clear audio with versatile connectivity and a design that fits seamlessly into any gaming setup. A top recommendation is the Mackie CR3.5BT paired with the CR8SBT subwoofer, offering a flexible and high-quality 2.1 system that delivers excellent sound clarity and impactful bass, perfect for immersive gaming experiences. These speakers provide superb audio fidelity and multiple connection options, including USB-C, RCA, and Bluetooth, making them suitable for various gaming rigs. For those seeking a balance between performance and space, options like the Q Acoustics M20 HD also stand out, delivering mighty stereo sound that enhances both PC and console gaming. Overall, these speakers elevate in-game soundtracks, effects, and positional audio, transforming your gaming environment into a rich audio-visual playground.
Razer Nommo V2
If you’re looking for the best possible sound – and money is no object – you’ll want to check out the Razer Nommo V2. The standard model of the Nommo V2 Pro combines excellent sound quality and RGB lighting into a versatile and powerful sound system that’s great for both desktops and consoles.
The Nommo V2 comes packaged with a pair of 3-inch speakers equipped with full-range drivers and RGB lighting built into the back. The speakers tether to each other and terminate in a cube-shaped subwoofer with a 5.5-inch driver. The lighting and sound profiles can be customized using the Razer Synapse desktop application or by pairing a mobile device via Bluetooth and using the Razer Audio app.
The V2 is also designed to be used with the Razer control pod, which comes included with the more expensive Nommo V2 Pro model. By default, this wireless puck-shaped control pod allows you to control the volume of your speakers and change your audio output between different connected devices. However, the control pod can also be mapped to specific functions on your desktop, lending it some extra versatility for desktop gaming.
Right now, you can find the Razer Nommo V2 for $299.99 from Best Buy or Razer. The control pod is available as a standalone purchase from Amazon for $49.99.
Razer Nommo V2
$300 $300 $300 at Best Buy$300 at Razer
Best 9.1 speakers
The best 9.1 speaker systems for gaming deliver immersive surround sound that enhances gameplay with precise directional audio and deep bass. Among these, the SteelSeries Arena 9 stands out as a premium 5.1 setup tailored specifically for gamers, featuring five satellite speakers, a powerful subwoofer, and wireless rear channels for easier setup. It offers true surround sound, customizable EQ through SteelSeries Sonar software, and an OLED control pod for convenient adjustments, making it ideal for those seeking high-fidelity, immersive audio despite its higher price point around $550. Such systems bring games to life with punchy bass, clear dialogue, and spatial soundscapes that elevate the gaming experience beyond standard stereo setups.
Steelseries Arena 9
The Steelseries Arena 9 is one of the few gaming speaker systems that features wireless back channel speakers. In total, the Arena 9 includes a center channel speaker, a left and right channel speaker, and two rear channel speakers in addition to the subwoofer.
The left and right channel speakers, along with the two surround speakers, are each equipped with 3-inch woofers and 0.75-inch tweeters, while the center speaker features two 2.75-inch woofers and a single 0.75-inch tweeter. The trio of main speakers all connect to the subwoofer, but the two rear-channel speakers pair with the entire system via Bluetooth, which gives the Arena 9 a great deal of flexibility in terms of placement.
Volume and other Steelseries-specific features, such as Bluetooth pairing and audio profile customization, can be controlled via the included control pod, which is tethered to the subwoofer.
While the Arena 9 has more than double the number of speakers than some of our other featured models from Logitech or Razer, it can struggle somewhat in terms of overall volume. However, it is still one of the only gaming speaker systems that can provide true surround sound. The Arena 9 is currently available for $437.99 on Amazon.
Steelseries Arena 9
$438$55020% off $438 $438 at Amazon$550 at Best Buy
Best 2.1 speakers
The best 2.1 gaming speakers offer an ideal balance of powerful bass, clear mids, and crisp highs, making them perfect for immersive gaming experiences without taking up too much desk space. These systems typically include two satellite speakers and a dedicated subwoofer, delivering rich, detailed sound that brings game environments to life-from subtle footsteps to explosive action. Popular options like the Logitech Z623, which is THX-certified, provide deep, rich audio with convenient controls, while setups like the Razer Nommo V2 excel in directional sound and virtual surround, enhancing gameplay immersion. Many 2.1 speakers also feature extras such as Bluetooth connectivity, RGB lighting, and sound customization, catering to both aesthetic and functional gaming needs. Overall, a quality 2.1 speaker system is a vital upgrade for gamers seeking a powerful yet compact audio solution for their rigs.
Logitech G560
A more modest 2.1 speaker system, the Logitech G560 combines a pair of smaller speakers and packages them with a powerful subwoofer to deliver solid sound quality without taking up a ton of desk space. Both of the 6-inch speakers feature RGB lighting built into the back which can be controlled via the Logitech G software and can even reflect action on the screen using Lightsync RGB.
If you’re looking for a pair of reliable speakers that offer an acceptable compromise between performance and price, you’ll have a tough time finding a better option than the Logitech G560. Currently, Amazon and Best Buy carry the G560 for $179.99.
Logitech G560
$180$20010% off $180 $180 at Logitech$180 at Best Buy$180 at Amazon
Best budget speakers
For gamers on a tight budget, the Creative Pebble Plus speakers stand out as the best budget option in 2025. These compact 2.1 speakers deliver surprisingly clear and crisp audio with a dedicated subwoofer for decent bass, all at a very affordable price. They are ideal for smaller desks and provide good sound quality without distortion at reasonable volumes, making them perfect for casual gaming and media consumption. While they may lack some bass power and wireless connectivity, their excellent value and portability make them the top pick for budget-conscious gamers looking to upgrade their audio experience without breaking the bank.
Edifier G2000
A solid pair of gaming speakers doesn’t have to cost a grip. The Edifier G2000 is a sensibly-priced pair of 2.75-inch speakers that may not have the same punch as other contenders on our list, but offer similar features.
Both speakers feature back-mounted RGB lighting, and connect with your preferred device via a USB-A, 3.5mm, or Bluetooth connection. The G2000 doesn’t have a dedicated software suite to adjust its audio or RGB lighting, but it still has a dozen different lighting effects, and three built-in audio profiles you can swap between.
The G2000 has just 32W of collective output, meaning it isn’t going to deliver the same audio fidelity you’ll get from more expensive options. However, you’ll have a tough time finding a pair of speakers with similar features at a more affordable price. You can currently find the Edifier G2000 at Amazon for $71.99.
Edifier G2000
$72$11035% off $72 $72 at Amazon$110 at Best Buy
Best soundbar
For gamers seeking the best soundbar to elevate their gaming experience, the ideal choice combines immersive surround sound, precise directional audio, and powerful bass. Top models like the Samsung HW-Q990D and Sonos Arc Ultra deliver advanced Dolby Atmos support and rich, spacious soundscapes that bring games to life with realistic effects and clear positional cues. Features such as dedicated subwoofers and multiple audio channels enhance explosions and footsteps, crucial for competitive play. Additionally, soundbars with low latency and multiple connectivity options, including HDMI eARC and Bluetooth, ensure seamless integration with gaming consoles and PCs. Whether you want a compact setup like the Panasonic SoundSlayer or a premium option like the Bang & Olufsen Beosound Stage, the best soundbars in 2025 offer a perfect balance of performance and style tailored for immersive gaming.
Creative Sound Blaster Katana V2
If you have a gaming setup with the necessary space, you may want to consider a soundbar to round out your audio experience. The Sound Blaster Katana V2 is a 24-inch soundbar that comes packaged with a modestly sized subwoofer, making it equally suited for desktop and console applications.
The Katana V2 is equipped with a pair of 2.5-inch mid-range drivers, 0.75-inch tweeters, and a 6.5-inch subwoofer driver. The soundbar also features a line of diffused RGB lighting that can be customized via the Creative Labs app. The app can also customize the functions on the soundbar’s remote and tailor customizable audio profiles.
While the Katana V2 can be upmixed to provide a simulated 5.1 surround experience, a 24-inch wide profile isn’t going to compete with a true surround system. However, the Katana V2 features the widest variety of connectivity options on our list, including HDMI ARC, USB-C, optical, and Bluetooth.
The Katana V2 is currently available for $299.99 at the Creative Labs store or $329.99 on Amazon.
Creative Sound Blaster Katana V2
$300$35014% off $300 $300 at Creative$330 at Amazon
Best minimalist speakers
For gamers who prefer a clean, uncluttered setup, the best minimalist speakers offer compact designs without sacrificing sound quality. Models like the Creative Pebble Pro and Edifier G2000 provide excellent audio performance with small footprints, making them ideal for tight desk spaces. These speakers often feature simple controls, multiple connectivity options including Bluetooth, and subtle RGB lighting to complement gaming aesthetics without overwhelming the workspace. While they may not deliver the deep bass of larger systems, their clarity and balanced sound make them perfect for immersive gaming in minimalist environments.
Audioengine A2
Sometimes, it’s best to keep things simple. The Audioengine A2 is a pair of hi-fidelity speakers that don’t include RGB lighting, but they are available in a handful of beautiful, matte, and glossy finishes to match your preferred aesthetic.
Both speakers are equipped with a single 2.75-inch woofer and a 0.75-inch tweeter and can be tethered to your desktop using a micro-USB connection, or paired with a variety of devices via Bluetooth. The volume can be adjusted on your preferred device or by using the volume knob situated on the back of the right-channel speaker.
Unfortunately, the Audioengine A2 doesn’t have its own software suite, so you’ll have to rely on a third-party solution if you want to fine-tune your audio profiles.
The Audioengine A2 is also the only system on our list that can be expanded with additional speakers and subwoofers from Audioengine or other manufacturers, provided they use a two-channel RCA connection.
If you’d like to add the Audioengine A2 to your gaming setup, all of the respective colorways are available from Amazon, Target, and B&H Photo for $269.
Audioengine A2
$269 $269 $269 at Amazon$269 at Target$269 at B&H Photo
What makes the Mackie CR3.5BT + CR8SBT combo the top choice for gamers
The Mackie CR3.5BT + CR8SBT combo stands out as a top choice for gamers due to its blend of studio-quality sound, versatile features, and powerful bass extension. The CR3.5BT speakers deliver clear, accurate audio with 3.5-inch drivers and silk dome tweeters, ensuring you can hear every detail-from subtle footsteps to explosive action-crucial for immersive gaming and competitive play.
A standout feature is the tone control knob, allowing users to tailor the sound profile: keep it flat for precise audio cues or boost the bass and highs for a more cinematic experience. The location switch optimizes performance whether the speakers are on a desk or bookshelf, adapting to your setup for the best possible sound.
Connectivity is another strong suit, with options for Bluetooth 5.0, RCA, TRS, and 3.5 mm inputs, making it easy to connect to PCs, consoles, and mobile devices. The CR8SBT subwoofer, with its massive 8-inch driver and 100W power, adds deep, room-filling bass that brings explosions and soundtracks to life, elevating the overall gaming experience.
In summary, the Mackie CR3.5BT + CR8SBT combo offers gamers:
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Studio-grade clarity and accuracy
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Customizable sound with tone and location controls
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Seamless connectivity across devices
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Powerful, immersive bass with the optional subwoofer
This combination of features makes it a versatile, high-performance choice for gamers seeking both precision and impact in their audio setup.
How does the Mackie CR3.5BT’s tone control improve gaming soundscapes
The Mackie CR3.5BT’s tone control significantly enhances gaming soundscapes by allowing users to tailor the audio profile to their preferences and the demands of different games. Starting from a flat, transparent studio monitor response-ideal for competitive play where accurate sound cues like footsteps are crucial-the tone knob can be turned to gradually boost bass and add high-end sparkle. This flexibility lets gamers enjoy punchier explosions, richer ambient effects, and more immersive soundtracks in story-driven or action games, all with a simple adjustment.
By shaping the sound on the fly, the tone control ensures that the CR3.5BT adapts seamlessly to various gaming scenarios, whether you need precise detail for multiplayer matches or a more cinematic, enveloping audio experience for single-player adventures.
