The audio quality of a projector setup is arguably just as important as the visuals. Therefore, knowing how to choose an external speaker that’ll fit your wants and layout best, might take your viewing experience from mediocre to exceptional.
The best external speaker for a projector is the Amazon Basics AC Powered Speaker set. This Amazon Basics speaker set provides a cinema-quality audio experience at one of the most affordable price points.
In this article, you’ll learn all there is to know about picking an external speaker for a projector that fits your needs, wants, and budget.
Also, check out My Recommended Surround Sound Setup for Home Theater
The Best External Speakers for a Projector
As the market becomes oversaturated with speakers of all features and price points, deciding on an option that’ll provide you with the most value can often feel overwhelming.
However, the vast array of choices also means that regardless of your budget or requirements, you’re guaranteed to find an external speaker that’ll take your setup to the next level.
In the following sections, I’ll be taking you through some of my all-time favorite external speakers and the features that set them apart from the competition. Therefore, if you’re unsure of where to start your search, I highly recommend reading through the following suggestions.
1. Amazon Basics AC Powered Speakers (Best Overall)
- AC-powered (13W) wired multimedia speakers with dual 2.5-inch drivers per speaker for supreme stereo sound with notable deep bass
- Turn the speakers on and adjust the volume using simple, easy-access controls (located on the front of the speakers); volume control includes On/Standby
- Plug and play—simply plug in the power and insert 3.5mm jack into your audio device; plugs directly into a wall outlet for maximum power
- Connect up to 2 devices at a time using 3.5mm audio input plus auxiliary line; built-in headphone jack for plugging in headphones; frequency range of 57 Hz - 20 KHz; 7 watts of total RMS power (3.5 watts per speaker)
- Measures approximately 3.4 by 9.3 by 4.2 inches; weighs approximately 2.8 pounds; backed by an Amazon Basics 1-year limited warra
As far as value goes, it’s hard to beat the Amazon Basics AC Powered speaker set. The sound quality that this equipment is able to produce far surpasses any expectations you might’ve had, considering its price point.
Therefore, if you’re looking to turn that spare room into a home theater, I’m hard-pressed to think of a better choice than this Amazon Basics speaker set.
The system beautifully complements any high-quality imagery supported by your projector. Its sound is powerful yet sharp and clear, making the set an excellent alternative to use in bigger spaces.
Moreover, the speakers’ classic, sleek design will fit right into any type of decor, meaning you won’t have to worry about a clunky, weird-looking external speaker ruining the look of your setup. This Amazon Basics Set is among the most compact on this list, with its dimensions measuring 3.47 x 4.26 x 9.34 inches (8.8 x 10.8 x 23.7 cm).
The equipment itself is user-friendly, with an easy setup and uncomplicated controls. Therefore, even if you’ve never purchased or operated an external speaker system, you’ll find this particular option easy to use.
The 13W multimedia speakers, dual drivers, and 7-watt RMS power allow for a rich, sharp sound with a notable deep bass.
Additionally, the equipment is easy to use in conjunction with other devices. Not only does it include a built-in headphone jack, but it also allows multiple accessories to be connected simultaneously.
These Amazon Basics Speakers plug directly into a wall outlet, making the installation process a breeze. And, if, for some reason, you’re still unsure whether you want to invest in this set, you’ll be pleased to learn that Amazon offers a 1-year warranty, guaranteeing that you’ll get your money’s worth.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality
- Affordable
- Powerful sound
- Classic design
- Compact
- User-friendly
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- The plugs aren’t compatible with international outlets.
- Short cord
2. Creative Pebble 2.0 USB-Powered Desktop Speakers (Best on a Budget)
- Single USB cable for computers and laptops | enjoy a hassle-free Audio experience with a single USB cable without the need for a power adapter
- Far-field drivers and passive radiators | custom-tuned far-field driver solution with rear facing passive radiators for excellent audio and enhanced bass reproduction
- 45° elevated drivers | for enhanced audio projection and an immersive personal listening experience
- Modern and stylish aesthetics | perfect for any modern homes, offices and workspaces.
- Easy access volume control | Conveniently placed Front-facing controls for instant adjustments
- Frequency Response 100 Hz (Hertz) ~ 17 kHz (kiloHer
If affordability is at the top of your priorities list, these Creative Pebble Desktop Speakers might be your best choice.
Granted, these won’t be as powerful or sharp as some higher-end alternatives, but with a 4.6/5 rating out of 63,000+ reviews, you can rest assured that you’re getting an excellent value for the price.
This set is compact, portable, and one of the most user-friendly options on this list. The USB connector makes this option universally fit for all projectors, regardless of your geographical location. Moreover, the sleek, modern design makes these speakers a great addition to any sound system.
The rear-facing passive radiators and elevated drivers optimize the sound, delivering respectable clarity and power.
Pros
- Affordable
- Good sound quality
- Highly rated
- Portable
- Compact
- User-friendly
- Universally compatible
- Sleek design
Cons
- Not as powerful as other alternatives
- A screeching sound can sometimes be heard when attempting to turn the volume up too much.
3. TEWELL Mini Sound Bar (Best Portable Speaker)
- Deluxe Audio: Driven by two professionally-tuned speakers and one passive subwoofer
- Wired and Wireless Connections: Works with any device that has a standard 3.5 mm AUX jack or wireless
- Mini Size: Exquisite and compact desktop speaker is slim enough to sit flat below monitors to keep your desk clutter free, and conveniently portable for outing use with your friends and families.
- Up to 110dB: Built in exclusive booster technology, our projector speakers delivers much louder sound with ease, whether you choose battery or USB power
If you’re tired of dragging bulky equipment from one projection room to another, this Tewell Mini Sound Bar might be the speaker you’ve looking for. The portable yet powerful device delivers excellent-quality sound.
This option is ideal for movie enthusiasts looking to enjoy sequences with incredible soundtracks, as the device delivers a robust and powerful bass.
Moreover, due to its compact dimensions and light, 1-kg (2.2 pound) weight, this soundbar is the ideal external speaker for anyone looking to move around their equipment fairly frequently.
This device can be connected to your projector of choice both through an AUX jack and Bluetooth connection, making it universally compatible with any equipment.
Pros
- Compact and portable
- High-quality sound
- Powerful bass
- Universally compatible
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a remote control
- Can produce a static sound when the volume is turned up too high
4. Klipsch AWR-650-SM (Best for Outdoor Use)
- True two-way design
- Dual voice coil polymer woofer
- Dual polymer dome tweeters
- Durable UV-resistant enclosure
- Available in a granite or sandstone fin
Looking for an outdoor external speaker requires having a completely different set of priorities and expectations in mind. The device you choose needs to be durable and well-built on top of being user-friendly and qualitative. Luckily, this Klipsch AWR-650-SM Speaker checks all the boxes.
Its creative rock-like design makes this speaker blend right in with the rest of your outdoor decor. The equipment also features a fiberglass build that allows it to withstand even the harshest weather condition.
However, this speaker’s advantages go well beyond its aesthetic and durability. Its 6.5-inch (16.5 cm) woofer produces a qualitative, full-bodied sound that doesn’t lose its clearness and power regardless of how vast or windy an open space is.
Pros
- Creative design
- Powerful
- High-quality sound
- Durable
- Static and hum-free
- User-friendly
Cons
- Pricey
- The plugs aren’t compatible with international outlets.
5. ARVICKA Computer Speaker (Best Design)
- CRYSTAL CLEAR MIGHTY SOUND❤ Fantastic for online meetings, webinars, video lectures.
- PALM-SIZED AESTHETIC LED DESIGN❤
- WE DO CARE FOR YOU❤ Thanks for supporting your love with ARVICKA! Our friendly hassle-free extended 36 Months (3 years,yep!) warranty and lifetime considerate customer service
- EASY OPERATION & FULL COMPATIBILITIES❤ Just plug and play. The usb cable for power and the aux in cable for the sound.
- UPGRADED WELL ENGINEERED❤ Sit back at ease, enjoy pure clean sound. Play music and play it we
This Arvicka speaker set is a cleverly-designed device intended to take your speaker system to another level, both quality, and appearance-wise. The LED-accented speaker won’t only add some visual interest to your space, but it’s also guaranteed to deliver a clear, full-bodied sound.
The device is user-friendly and features a USB cord, meaning it’s universally-compatible. Moreover, due to its compact dimensions and light weight, this option is portable and easy to maneuver.
Pros
- Excellent design
- Good-quality sound
- Affordable
- Universally compatible
- User-friendly
- Portable
Cons
- Short cable
- Not as long-lasting as other options
How To Choose the Best External Speakers for a Projector
Even though every speaker that made this list will undoubtedly be an excellent addition to your sound system, the decision-making process can still pose some challenges.
Therefore, in the following sections, I’ll quickly take you through some of the most important considerations to keep in mind when speaker shopping in an effort to help you make the most worthwhile investment.
Sound Quality
This might go without saying, but the most important feature you’ll want to be looking for in a new external speaker is its sound quality. Regardless of your specific priorities (durability, design, budget), the aim is never to have to sacrifice audio sharpness and power.
You’ll want to look for a speaker with a qualitative woofer and tweeter to ensure the device can flawlessly produce sounds of all ranges.
Durability
A premium-quality speaker that only lasts a few weeks is still a bad investment. Therefore, durability should also be at the top of your priorities list when shopping for a new external speaker. Generally speaking, you’ll want to opt for devices that feature a fiberglass build.
The quality becomes even more critical when thinking about buying an outdoor speaker, which is bound to face some harsh conditions. In this case, you’ll want to look for an alternative with an IP rating of 6 or above.
Portability
Any well-loved sound system will have to move from time to time. Therefore, it’s essential to make sure that the product you choose is as compact and portable as possible for the level of sound quality and power you’re trying to achieve.
Therefore, even though this quality mightn’t be the first criteria you think of when choosing an external speaker, keeping it in mind will save you from a lot of unnecessary trouble in the long run.
Setup
A good speaker should be easy to install and compatible with most other devices. Considering you’ll want to make the most out of your equipment, it’s essential to choose an easy option to get up and running every time you want to use it.
Moreover, it’s equally important to pick a speaker that’s compatible with every device you’ll eventually want to pair it with.
Additional Features
Depending on your preferences, there’s a wide range of features that might set some speakers apart from the competition. For example, if you’re looking to supply sound to a larger space, power might be the quality you’ll want to be looking at the most.
Likewise, if you’re looking for an outdoor speaker, picking a water-resistant option should be a must.
Alternatively, depending on your space’s layout, you need to check whether the speaker you’ll be adding to your sound system is wired or wireless.
Final Thoughts
Even though, due to the sheer number of options, finding an external speaker for a projector might feel intimidating, the process doesn’t have to be challenging or time-consuming.
There’s an option on the market for every need, want, and budget; therefore, as long as you know what features you’re looking for, you’re bound to find an option that’s tailored to your requirements.
Jason is a home theater expert with over 10 years of experience in setting up home cinema rooms and systems. What started out as a hobby soon transformed him into an authority in the audio-visual field. He is passionate about providing readers with accurate and up-to-date information on the latest audiovisual technologies and their applications for home theaters. Read more about Jason.