Raspberry Pi is a small, low-cost computer that has become a popular tool for DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists, and students. One of the most common uses of Raspberry Pi is as a media center, allowing users to stream music, movies, and TV shows to their TV or home theater system. To get the most out of your Raspberry Pi media center, you’ll want to invest in a set of high-quality speakers.
When it comes to choosing the best speakers for Raspberry Pi, there are a few critical things to consider. First, you’ll want to think about the size and type of speakers that will work best for your setup. Some users prefer traditional bookshelf speakers, while others opt for compact, portable speakers that can be easily moved from room to room.
Another important factor to consider is the quality of the sound. You’ll want speakers that can deliver clear, crisp audio with good bass response and minimal distortion. Finally, you’ll want to think about the price, as there are speakers available at a wide range of price points.
We’ve tested several different speakers to help you find the best option for your Raspberry Pi media center. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-end speaker that delivers top-notch sound quality, we’ve got you covered.
Best Speakers for Raspberry Pi
When it comes to using a Raspberry Pi for multimedia purposes, having a good speaker is crucial. While the built-in audio output on the Raspberry Pi can be sufficient for some projects, it often lacks the quality and volume needed for a full multimedia experience. That’s where external speakers come in. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best speakers for Raspberry Pi based on sound quality, compatibility, and ease of use. Whether you’re using your Raspberry Pi for gaming, music, or video, these speakers will take your experience to the next level.
HONKYOB USB Mini Speaker
If you are looking for a portable, compact and affordable speaker for your Raspberry Pi, the HONKYOB USB Mini Speaker is a great option.
Pros
- Compact and portable design
- Plug and play USB connectivity
- Dual speaker units for balanced stereo sound
Cons
- No volume control on the speaker
- Not suitable for audiophiles
- Limited sound quality for music and movies
This mini USB speaker from HONKYOB is perfect for those who need a simple and functional speaker for their Raspberry Pi. With a compact size of 3.14×1.2×1.78 inches and a weight of only 90g, it can easily fit in your pocket and provide you with a tidy desk. The 47-inch USB cable provides power and connectivity to your computer, making it easy to use.
The HONKYOB USB Mini Speaker is compatible with USB1.1 and USB2.0, which means you don’t need a 3.5mm connection to use it. The dual speaker units deliver a balanced stereo sound that is pure and clear. The speaker is integrated with two stereo speakers that can reach a balance sound effect, making it perfect for movies, games, and music.
However, the HONKYOB USB Mini Speaker has no volume control on the speaker itself, which means you have to adjust the sound on your monitor or computer. Additionally, the sound quality is limited, which makes it unsuitable for audiophiles. It is best used for basic audio needs such as podcasts, lectures, and video calls.
In conclusion, if you need a compact and portable speaker for your Raspberry Pi, the HONKYOB USB Mini Speaker is a great option. It is easy to use and provides balanced stereo sound, making it perfect for basic audio needs. However, if you are looking for high-quality sound for music and movies, you may need to look elsewhere.
Adafruit Stereo Enclosed Speaker Set
If you’re looking for a small and enclosed speaker set for your audio project, the Adafruit Stereo Enclosed Speaker Set might be a good option for you.
Pros
- Easy to connect with JST-PH series connector
- Good volume and quality
- Pair of enclosed speakers
Cons
- Might not be powerful enough for some projects
- May require additional amplifier for optimal sound quality
- Some users reported issues with durability
These speakers are small and easy to connect with their JST-PH series connector. They provide good volume and quality for their size and come in a pair of enclosed speakers. However, they might not be powerful enough for some projects and may require an additional amplifier for optimal sound quality. Some users also reported issues with durability.
Overall, if you’re looking for a small and enclosed speaker set for your audio project, the Adafruit Stereo Enclosed Speaker Set might be worth considering. Just keep in mind that they might not be powerful enough for larger projects and some users reported durability issues.
CQRobot Speaker 3 Watt 8 Ohm Compatible with Arduino Motherboard, JST-PH2.0 Interface. It is Ideal for a Variety of Small Electronic Projects.
If you’re looking for a small passive speaker with a clear and melodious sound without distortion, the CQRobot Speaker 3 Watt 8 Ohm could be a great option for you.
Pros
- Easy to install with its JST PH2.0 interface and mounting screw.
- Suitable for a wide range of sound source fabrication projects, including Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and integrated machine special speakers.
- Comes in a pack of two speakers, making it a great value for money.
Cons
- No grill protection included, which could make it vulnerable to damage.
- The sound quality may not be as high as some other high-end speakers on the market.
- The internal resistance may not be suitable for all types of electronic projects.
This passive speaker is ideal for small electronic projects that require a clear and melodious sound without distortion. It is easy to install with its JST PH2.0 interface and mounting screw, making it a great option for those who are new to electronic projects.
One of the best things about this speaker is that it is compatible with a wide range of sound source fabrication projects, including Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and integrated machine special speakers. Additionally, it comes in a pack of two speakers, which makes it a great value for money.
However, it is worth noting that this speaker does not come with grill protection, which could make it vulnerable to damage. Additionally, the sound quality may not be as high as some other high-end speakers on the market. Lastly, the internal resistance may not be suitable for all types of electronic projects.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-install passive speaker for your small electronic projects, the CQRobot Speaker 3 Watt 8 Ohm could be a great option for you.
shuley USB Computer Speakers
If you need a simple and practical USB computer speaker that provides clear sound and deep bass, shuley USB Computer Speakers may be the best choice for you.
Pros
- High sound quality
- Plug and play
- Space-saving design
Cons
- No volume knob
- Vibration issues
- Not very loud
These mini USB speakers are designed to fill your office, study space, or any nook at home with music, movies, games, audio books, or online lectures at ease. They are compatible with any device that has a universal USB interface, such as PC, laptop, tablet, notebook, or desktop.
The shuley USB Computer Speakers are easy to use, just plug them into an available USB port to enjoy rich stereo sound. However, they have no volume knob and can only be controlled by your computer settings. Also, some users reported vibration issues with the speakers.
Overall, if you’re looking for a USB speaker with acoustic quality stereo sound, small size, and space-saving design, shuley USB Computer Speakers may be the best choice for you.
Manhattan USB Powered Stereo Speaker System
If you’re looking for a compact and portable speaker system for your Raspberry Pi, then the Manhattan USB Powered Stereo Speaker System might be worth considering.
Pros
- Small size, good sound output
- USB powered, no need for an outlet or adapter
- In-line volume control for convenience
Cons
- Audio plug needs to be connected to the computer for sound to operate
- Not the best sound quality compared to other speakers
- Limited control over sound adjustments
This speaker system is built for travel and can fit easily in your laptop bag or briefcase. It’s self-powered and easy to install, requiring no batteries or power adapter. The dual external speakers improve stereo separation and sound field, making it ideal for enjoying and sharing music and other audio.
However, the Manhattan USB Powered Stereo Speaker System is not the best sounding speakers out there, but it’s much better than the built-in speakers on most laptops. The audio plug needs to be connected to the computer for sound to operate, which might be inconvenient for some users. Additionally, there is limited control over sound adjustments, which might be a downside for those who like more control over their sound settings.
Overall, if you’re looking for a portable and compact speaker system for your Raspberry Pi, the Manhattan USB Powered Stereo Speaker System might be worth considering.
XKX USB Computer Speakers for Laptop, PC Speakers for Desktop Computer, Small USB-Powered External Speakers with Hi-Quality Sound, Rich Bass, Loud Volume, Direct Volume Control USB-A
If you’re looking for an affordable and compact speaker for your Raspberry Pi, the XKX USB Computer Speakers might be worth considering.
Pros
- Built-in dual 4 Watt high-sensitive drivers deliver high-quality crystal-clear sound with louder volume and richer bass.
- Bottom Passive Radiator and Bottom Suction Cups can effectively enhance the bass quality.
- The 3 volume control buttons on the top can synchronously control the volume on your computer system, which means you don’t need to separately adjust system volume and the speaker volume.
Cons
- This USB Speaker is designed specifically for computers, please do not plug it into TV/TV-Box/Projector/Xbox/PlayStation for use.
- Please buy with caution if you are high-end PC users, because the sound volume and bass of high-end PC’s internal speaker is very awesome, this small speaker maybe no better than that.
- Some users reported that the sound quality is not as good as expected.
The XKX USB Computer Speakers are a great option for those who want to enhance their Raspberry Pi’s sound quality without breaking the bank. With its high-quality sound, bass enhancement features, and direct volume control, this speaker is a great addition to your setup.
The speaker is also very easy to set up, as it doesn’t require any 3.5mm AUX headphone jack, only the USB-C cable can transmit both audio and electrical power to Speaker. It is also compatible with Windows PCs, Desktop Computers, macOS MacBook Air, Mac mini and Google Chromebooks.
However, it’s important to note that this speaker is designed specifically for computers, so it’s not recommended to use it with TV/TV-Box/Projector/Xbox/PlayStation. Additionally, if you are a high-end PC user, the sound volume and bass of high-end PC’s internal speaker might be better than this small speaker.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly and compact speaker for your Raspberry Pi, the XKX USB Computer Speakers might be a good choice.
WAONIQ Pillow Speaker
If you’re looking for a portable and easy-to-use speaker for your Raspberry Pi, the WAONIQ Pillow Speaker might be a good option.
Pros
- Great compatibility with almost all audio devices with 3.5 mm jack
- Easy to connect and provides impressive true HD and unique soft sound
- Beautifully designed with fine workmanship and exquisite appearance
Cons
- Not loud enough for regular music listening
- Not compatible with memory card reader
- Some users reported issues with low volume and poor sound quality
The WAONIQ Pillow Speaker is a great option for those who want to listen to relaxation music or self-hypnosis without disturbing others. It’s easy to use and provides impressive true HD and unique soft sound. The speaker is also beautifully designed with fine workmanship and exquisite appearance. However, it’s not loud enough for regular music listening and not compatible with memory card reader. Some users also reported issues with low volume and poor sound quality.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a portable and easy-to-use speaker for your Raspberry Pi that can help you relax and sleep well, the WAONIQ Pillow Speaker might be a good option. However, if you’re looking for a speaker for regular music listening, you might want to consider other options.
ABRRU Dual 5W Single USB Computer, PC Speakers
If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly set of speakers for your Raspberry Pi, the ABRRU Dual 5W Single USB Computer, PC Speakers are a great option.
Pros
- Crystal clear sound quality
- Plug and play design
- Convenient volume control and mute button
Cons
- Not suitable for bass-heavy music
- Not compatible with all devices
- Sound quality may not be as good as higher-end speakers
These speakers are built with two 3-inch all-magnetic speakers, which ensures that the speakers emit stunning sound quality with sufficient cavities. The high-quality cable ensures stable transmission, which avoids the jerky sound that other Bluetooth speakers bring. The single USB design avoids the hassle of cable management, allowing you to keep your desktop tidy while using as little space as possible on your desk.
The three buttons on the top of the speaker are the volume up/down and mute buttons. After consulting hundreds of buyers, they unanimously agreed that the one-touch mute function is more practical than the one-touch pause function. Because pause can only pause the sound of music software, but not stop the video and other sounds. So when you urgently need to stop playing sound, just press the mute button and you can do your things without worry.
The speakers are compatible with Windows, macOS, and Chrome OS laptops and desktop computers, as long as they have the latest audio drivers installed for the sound card. The USB-C to USB adapter in the box will make the speaker work well with Type-C port only devices like Samsung phones, MacBook Air, Pro, Huawei phones, or other devices.
In conclusion, the ABRRU Dual 5W Single USB Computer, PC Speakers are a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly set of speakers for their Raspberry Pi. They are easy to set up and use, and offer crystal clear sound quality. However, they may not be suitable for bass-heavy music, and the sound quality may not be as good as higher-end speakers.
Bobtot Computer Speaker
If you’re looking for a compact and portable speaker to use with your Raspberry Pi, the Bobtot Computer Speaker is a great option.
Pros
- The stereo sound quality is impressive, with 3W*2 large dual drive units that deliver up to 6W output.
- The Bobtot mini computer speakers are easy to use, with plug-and-play connectivity via USB and aux-in cables.
- The controls are simple to use, with a knob to switch between Bluetooth and wired modes, adjust the volume, control the RGB lights, and change the song.
Cons
- The RGB LED lights may be distracting for some users.
- The speaker cords could be longer.
- The volume control may not be very accurate.
The Bobtot Computer Speaker is a small and compact speaker that’s perfect for mobile listening. It’s compatible with any device that has a standard 3.5mm headphone jack, including laptops, desktops, cellphones, tablets, projectors, USB chargers, power banks, and more.
The speaker’s colorful RGB lights create a dynamic mode that can be controlled via the control knob. There are three colors (red, green, blue) and four modes (flash, slow flash, one color, and turn off).
Overall, the Bobtot Computer Speaker is a solid choice for anyone looking for a portable and versatile speaker for their Raspberry Pi.
XKX USB Computer Speaker
If you’re looking for an affordable USB-powered speaker that can deliver crystal clear sound with direct volume control, the XKX USB Computer Speaker might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The speaker is easy to set up and use without any messy cables.
- It delivers high-quality crystal clear sound with loud volume and rich bass.
- The direct volume control buttons on the speaker can synchronously control the volume on your computer.
Cons
- The volume control on the speaker can be a bit iffy at times.
- The connection can be weak and cause static-y sound.
- The single speaker might not be suitable for large rooms.
This USB computer speaker is built with a 5W high-sensitive driver that is tuned by professional audio engineers to deliver high-quality crystal clear sound with loud volume and rich bass. It can work greatly for Windows PCs, Desktop Computers, macOS MacBook, Mac mini, and Chromebooks. The speaker is also designed with direct volume control buttons that can synchronously control the volume on your computer, which means you don’t need to individually adjust the system volume and the speaker volume.
One of the best things about this speaker is that it doesn’t require any messy cables or a 3.5mm AUX headphone jack. Only the USB cable can transmit both audio and electrical power to the USB-powered speaker. However, the volume control on the speaker can be a bit iffy at times, and the connection can be weak and cause static-y sound. Additionally, the single speaker might not be suitable for large rooms.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable USB-powered speaker that can deliver crystal clear sound with direct volume control, the XKX USB Computer Speaker might be a good option for you.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best speakers for your Raspberry Pi, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some key features to keep in mind:
Sound Quality
The sound quality of your speakers is, of course, a top priority. Look for speakers that offer clear and crisp sound, with well-defined bass and treble. Consider the size of your speakers, as larger speakers may offer more powerful sound, but may not be practical for all setups.
Compatibility
Make sure that the speakers you choose are compatible with your Raspberry Pi. Look for speakers that have a 3.5mm audio jack or USB connection, as these are the most common connections for the Raspberry Pi.
Size and Design
Consider the size and design of your speakers, as this can impact both the sound quality and the aesthetics of your setup. Look for speakers that are the right size for your space and that match your personal style.
Price
Speakers can range widely in price, so it’s important to consider your budget when making your choice. Keep in mind that more expensive doesn’t always mean better, and that there are plenty of great options available at a range of price points.
In summary, when choosing the best speakers for your Raspberry Pi, focus on sound quality, compatibility, size and design, and price. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find the perfect speakers to enhance your Raspberry Pi experience.
Aaron Smith is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
