6 Best External Speakers for MacBook Pro in 2023

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If you are a MacBook Pro user, you know that the built-in speakers can leave much to be desired regarding audio quality. It is where external speakers come in, providing better sound and a more immersive audio experience. No matter what your audio needs and preferences are, an external speaker on this list is perfect for you. So, let’s explore the six best external speakers for MacBook in 2023.

Quick Summary

• Bose Companion 2 Series III is perfect for users who want a reliable, high-quality audio setup in one place with an easy-to-use design. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who need a powerful, waterproof speaker with impressive bass and long battery life, JBL Boombox is the perfect choice for you.
• Amazon Basics USB Plug-n-Play is a budget-friendly option for those seeking an easy-to-use speaker system with decent quality of sound. But if you need style with portability, Pill+ Portable Wireless Speaker is a good choice. It has impressive sound quality, long battery life, and a built-in microphone.
• Bose Companion 20 Multimedia deliver clear and balanced sound, perfect for basic audio needs. ARVICKA Computer Speaker is a compact and modern speaker with good sound quality and easy plug-and-play functionality.

Who Should Get This

When it comes to items of convenience, you know yourself best, but we can still help you figure out if it’s really worth it.

A speaker is definitely recommended for audiophiles who want to listen to music as they work, watch movies at full theatre volume, or generally have high-quality sound available at their fingertips.

But another sign you might want a speaker is constantly finding yourself frustrated with your current audio capabilities or wishing you could turn things up just a little bit further.

On the other hand, if you normally use headphones with your Mac or don’t consider yourself to have a picky ear, you could be fine with the built-in system until circumstances change.

Best Speakers for MacBook Pro in 2023: Top Picks

Selecting the perfect speaker for your MacBook Pro depends on your tastes, financial plan, and intended purpose. To help you, I’ve compiled a list of the six best external speaker for MacBook Pro in 2023. These speakers offer various options based on your audio needs and budget. So pick one that fits your choices.

1. Bose Companion 2 Series III Multimedia Speakers

The Bose Companion 2 Series III Multimedia Speakers are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for high-quality sound and an easy-to-use setup. These speakers offer a sleek design, TrueSpace Stereo Digital Processing Circuitry technology, a control pod with a headphone jack, compact size, and easy setup, making them an excellent investment for your audio needs.

Setting up these speakers is a breeze as they come with all the necessary cables and are easy to set up with any computer or device. The setup takes only a few minutes, and the speakers are ready to use right out of the box. While they may not have the best bass, their sleek design and easy-to-use features make them a great addition to any desk or bookshelf.

Pros:

• They have excellent sound quality for their size
• Convenient volume control and headphone jack
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• Some users have reported a slight distortion at higher volumes

2. JBL Boombox

The JBL Boombox is a powerful and portable Bluetooth speakers, ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities. With its IPX7 waterproof rating and battery life of up to 24 hours, it is designed to last all day. Its Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity ensures a stable and reliable connection to your device.

The JBL Boombox stands out for its bass response, with four active transducers and two JBL bass radiators delivering deep, powerful bass that is balanced and clear, even at high volumes. The speaker’s hard plastic exterior is durable and rugged, and the built-in handle makes it easy to carry around. It can also connect to other JBL Connect+ enabled speakers for a true wireless and portable speakers sound experience.

Pros:

• Impressive bass response with four active transducers and two JBL bass radiators
• Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity for a stable and reliable connection
• Massive battery life of up to 24 hours and IPX7 waterproof rating.

Cons:

• Heavy weight at 11.5 pounds

3. Amazon Basics USB Plug-n-Play

The Amazon Basics USB Plug-n-Play Computer Speakers are a budget-friendly option for those looking for a simple and easy-to-use speaker system for their computer. The speakers are plug-and-play, so you can plug them into your computer’s USB port and start listening right away.

The sound quality of these speakers is decent for their price point. They produce clear and crisp audio, making them suitable for listening to music, watching videos, or playing games on your computer. The speakers have a compact and minimalist design, with a black plastic exterior that can blend well with any desk setup. However, the lack of volume control on the speakers and limited bass response may be a drawback for some users, and the short cable length may not be suitable for larger setups.

Pros:

• Low cost
• No need for an external power source
• Decent sound quality for the price

Cons:

• Limited bass response

4. Pill+ Portable Wireless Speaker

Beats has a well-deserved reputation for great music, and this Bluetooth Pill+ Speaker is no exception. It’s as portable as your MacBook and connects via Bluetooth for loud, rich music on the go or at home.

Pros:

• Uncompromising sound quality optimized to deliver dynamic sound even from a single speaker.
• Works with all your Apple products and looks sleek doing it.
• Extremely light at just over a pound and ready to bring the volume with you wherever you go.
• It has a 12-hour battery life.

Cons:

• Not waterproof unlike a lot of other portables and wireless design leaves you vulnerable to battery drainage.

5. Bose Companion 20 Multimedia Speaker System 

If you want a compact yet finely tuned sound setup at your disposal, the Bose Companion 20 provides crystal clear audio in a space-saving design.

This two-piece system offers excellent audio quality across frequencies, eliminating the need for a dedicated bass unit and producing outstanding sound from two speakers. 

It also comes with a control pod to allow you to adjust the volume or connect devices quickly. 

Pros:

• Full-frequency audio output in a small two-piece unit eliminates the need for additional speakers and saves space.
• Easy to use control pod included.

Cons:

• Lower volumes won’t produce as accurate audio as higher outputs.

6. ARVICKA Computer Speaker

The ARVICKA Computer Speaker is a compact set of speakers that promises to deliver crisp sound quality. The speakers produce a balanced sound with clear highs, mids, and deep bass. The sound is surprisingly loud and clear for such a compact device. The speakers also come with a built-in amplifier, which helps boost the overall sound quality. While it may not have the most powerful volume or bass, it provides good sound quality for its size and price.

With its modern design, these speakers are perfect for a home office or a small living space. The ARVICKA Computer Speaker is also well-built and sturdy. The speakers are made from high-quality materials and are built to last. The metal mesh grill on the front of the speakers looks stylish and helps protect the speaker cones from damage.

Pros: 

• Easy to set up and use with simple plug-and-play functionality
• Compatible with various devices, including laptops, desktops, and smartphones
• It comes with a convenient volume control knob

Cons:

• No option for Bluetooth connectivity

What to Consider While Buying External Speaker for MacBook Pro?

If you’re in the market for external speakers to use with your MacBook Pro, there are a few key factors to consider before purchasing. Here are some things to keep in mind when buying the best external speakers for MacBook Pro in 2023:

1. Sound Quality: Sound quality is the most important factor to consider when buying external speakers. Look for speakers with good bass and treble and clear and balanced sound. It’s best to listen to the speakers before buying them or at least read reviews from trusted sources.
2. Compatibility: Ensure the speakers you choose are compatible with your MacBook Pro. Check the speaker’s connectivity options and ensure they match your MacBook’s ports. Consider whether the speakers require a separate power source or can run on USB power.
3. Size: External speakers come in various sizes, from small portable models to larger desktop models. Consider how and where you’ll use the speakers to choose a size that fits your needs. If you’ll carry the speakers, go for smaller, lightweight models.
4. Power: The power of external speakers is measured in watts RMS (root mean square), which indicates the continuous power output. Generally, the higher the wattage, the louder the speakers can get. However, don’t choose speakers based on wattage alone, as the sound quality is more important.
5. Design: External speakers come in various designs, from sleek and modern to vintage and retro. Choose a design that fits your style and complements your MacBook Pro. Check the build quality of the speakers and whether they are durable enough to last.
6. Brand: Choose a reputable brand when buying external speakers for your MacBook Pro. Brands like Bose, JBL, Logitech speakers, and Harman Kardon are known for their high-quality speakers and excellent customer support. Avoid unknown or generic brands that offer lower prices but may compromise on quality.
7. Budget: External speakers come at various prices, from affordable to high-end models. Set a budget for yourself and look for speakers that fit within your price range. Don’t compromise on quality for a lower price, as you may spend more in the long run.

Additional Tips and Tricks

If you’ve already upgraded from the built-in speakers but have yet to consider an alternative to the built-in mic, there are a few places to look whether you’re a gamer, professional musician, or just want to Skype with more clarity.

This article should get you headed toward the best external mics on the market.

Additionally, if you’re going to be using your speakers for listening or in conjunction with recording equipment, you may want to check out this Apple support guide to connecting audio equipment to your MacBook. It will guide you through any setup needed for the most common types of instruments and stereos.

Final Comparison

The top six MacBook Pro external speakers in 2023 offer various options to suit different needs and budgets. The Amazon Basics USB Plug-n-Play is a compact, affordable option with decent sound quality. The Bose Companion 20 Multimedia Speaker System provide balanced sound and volume control at an affordable price. The JBL Boombox is great for outdoor enthusiasts with impressive bass, long battery life, and a waterproof rating. For a portable, modern-looking speaker with long battery life and party mode connectivity, the Pill+ Portable Wireless Speaker is an excellent choice. If sound quality is your priority, consider the Bose Companion 2 Series III Multimedia Speakers with TrueSpace Stereo Digital Processing Circuitry technology and convenient volume control. Choose the best speaker for your MacBook Pro based on your preferences, budget, and intended use.

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