Portable Laptop Speakers

Compact speakers for laptops

All of the aforementioned computer speakers can be used with a laptop, but because of their size, they're best left in one place. If you need to take PC speakers with you, a few portable notebook speakers exist, though they weren't extensively covered by our review sources, and those that were didn't receive stellar ratings. Be aware that some computer speakers can double as iPod speakers. We cover these in a separate report on iPod speakers. These have a line-in port for connecting an MP3 player, but some have a dedicated iPod dock as well.

The Logitech AudioHub (*Est. $95) is a 15-watt portable speaker system that includes a powered, three-port USB hub. It consists of a pair of 2-inch tweeters and one 3-inch driver that acts as a woofer. Reviewers are fairly unanimous in their assessment of the unit's sound -- highs and mids are great but bass is lacking. Siddharth Bhatia at India's Tech2 website named it the runner up to the best PC speakers of 2008 for clear, loud sound from such a portable speaker system. However, with a width of 16 inches, this isn't going to fit nicely into most computer bags. Another downside is the AC adapter because the Logitech AudioHub won't work without it. Still, the unit comes with some handy extras such as a removable webcam stand that allows for adjustable height while video chatting or holding a web conference. Be aware, however, that you can't connect an MP3 player to the AudioHub.

The Yamaha NX-U10 (*Est. $105) is a more compact unit at 9.75 inches wide with an innovative power-control system that's great for travel. This allows the unit to pump out a total of 20 watts even without an AC power adapter (though one is included in the box) or batteries. In other words, it exceeds the wattage of Logitech's AudioHub even when powered through USB. Jason Tomczak of DigitalTrends.com tested the Yamaha NX-U10 while using his laptop on battery power and reports, "I was pleasantly surprised to find that the NX-U10 didn't wipe out my battery any faster than other USB-powered devices." That's because it takes most of its power from the innovative power control system. Be aware, though, that you'll get higher volume levels using the AC adapter or batteries. Reviews report sound is balanced and clear, including bass response, as long as you keep the volume at about 60 percent on USB. Any higher, reviewers say, and you'll hear distortion. Unlike the Logitech AudioHub, the unit includes a 1/8-inch audio input with cable for MP3 players and phones.

The Logitech V20 (*Est. $55) is a 2.0 speaker system that includes a hard-shell carrying case. They're powered entirely through your laptop's USB cable. This means you don't need a separate AC adapter, but volume just doesn't get very loud. This is fine for a hotel room but frustrating if you need speakers for presentations. Sound is clear and balanced across the ranges. The Logitech V20 portable speakers include control buttons on the right speaker, but they don't work on a Mac and some users found them a little stiff.