If you are using a desktop setup and your monitor does not produce great sound, or perhaps does not have speakers at all, you might be wondering how to connect external speakers. Many PC users assume speakers connect directly to the monitor, but this depends on the ports available and how your audio is routed.
In this guide, we will explore how to connect speakers to your PC monitor or system, explain which cables to use and help you get the best possible sound.
Do Monitors Have Built-In Audio?
Before connecting anything, it is worth checking whether your monitor has built-in speakers. Some monitors include small internal speakers which can be used for basic sound, but the quality is usually poor compared to dedicated speakers.
To find out, look at the back of your monitor for a headphone jack or speaker grilles. You can also check the manufacturer’s specifications online. If your monitor does not have speakers, you will need to connect your audio device another way.
Using a Monitor with Audio Output
If your monitor has a 3.5mm audio-out port or headphone jack, you can connect external speakers directly to it. This only works if the monitor is receiving audio through HDMI or DisplayPort from the PC.
For this setup, plug one end of a 3.5mm audio cable into the monitor’s audio-out port and the other end into your external speakers. Make sure the monitor is selected as the default playback device in Windows. Go to Settings > System > Sound, then choose the monitor under the Output device list.
Connecting Speakers to the PC Directly
If your monitor does not have an audio-out port, or if you want better audio quality, the best option is to connect your speakers directly to the PC. Most desktop PCs have a 3.5mm audio-out jack on the back or front panel. Simply plug your speaker cable into the green port, which is the standard output for stereo speakers.
You can also use USB-powered speakers by connecting them to any USB port. These speakers often install their own drivers and act as their own sound device. Make sure you select them in the sound settings.
Using HDMI Audio Splitters or Extractors
If your monitor receives video and audio through HDMI, but has no audio output, an HDMI audio extractor is a useful tool. This device splits the HDMI signal into two parts, allowing video to pass through to the monitor while directing the audio to a 3.5mm or optical output.
You connect your PC’s HDMI output to the extractor, then run another HDMI cable to the monitor and connect your speakers to the extractor’s audio output. It is a reliable option if you want to keep things tidy but your monitor lacks the ports you need.
Bluetooth Speakers and Wireless Options
You can also connect wireless speakers to your PC if your system has Bluetooth built in. To do this, go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices, then click Add Bluetooth or other device. Put your speaker into pairing mode and select it from the list.
This method is useful if you want to avoid extra wires or if your monitor setup makes it hard to access the audio ports. Keep in mind that Bluetooth can sometimes introduce slight audio delay which may not be ideal for gaming or video editing.
Setting the Correct Output in Windows
After your speakers are connected, make sure Windows is sending audio to the right device. Right-click the speaker icon on your taskbar, then choose Sound settings. Under the Output section, select the device you want to use.
You can test the sound output to confirm it is working. If you do not hear anything, try restarting your PC or checking the volume controls on both the system and your speaker hardware.
Improving Audio Quality
To get the best sound from your PC speakers, consider adjusting your audio settings. You can enable enhancements such as bass boost or virtual surround sound under Sound Control Panel > Playback > Properties > Enhancements.
You should also place your speakers correctly for optimal performance. Position stereo speakers at equal distances on either side of your monitor and adjust their angle so they point toward your ears.
Final Thoughts
Connecting speakers to your PC monitor depends on the ports available and how your audio is routed. You can plug into the monitor if it has an audio-out port or connect directly to your PC for better quality and more flexibility. Whether you use wired, USB or Bluetooth speakers, make sure your sound settings are correctly configured for the best experience.