Monitors with Built-In Speakers: Are They Worth It?

2 October 2025

Today, monitors do a lot more than just display crisp images. With advancements in technology, many monitors now come equipped with built-in speakers. But are they really worth it? Should you ditch your external speakers and solely rely on a monitor’s onboard audio?

In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of monitors with built-in speakers, compare them to external speakers, and help you decide if they’re the right choice for your setup.

✅ The Appeal of Monitors with Built-In Speakers

It's easy to see why built-in speakers are becoming increasingly common. Here are some of the major benefits:

1. Space-Saving Design

If you’re working with limited desk space, built-in speakers can be a lifesaver. Adding a separate set of external speakers might clutter your desk, whereas monitors with onboard audio provide an all-in-one solution.

2. Fewer Cables, Less Mess

Nobody likes dealing with a tangled mess of cables. By choosing a monitor with built-in speakers, you reduce the number of wires needed for audio. That means a cleaner setup and fewer wires to manage.

3. Cost-Effective Solution

For budget-conscious buyers, built-in speakers can eliminate the need for purchasing external audio devices. If you're not too picky about sound quality, you can save money by opting for a monitor that includes speakers.

4. Good Enough for Basic Use

If you mostly use your computer for office tasks, online browsing, or occasional YouTube videos, built-in speakers might be all you need. They provide a convenient way to get sound without any extra setup.

❌ The Downsides of Monitors with Built-In Speakers

Of course, built-in speakers aren’t perfect. Here are some drawbacks to consider:

1. Mediocre Sound Quality

Let’s be honest—built-in monitor speakers rarely sound great. Manufacturers focus more on display quality than top-tier sound. Compared to dedicated external speakers, the audio from built-in speakers often lacks depth, bass, and clarity.

2. Limited Volume

If you need loud, immersive sound for gaming, movies, or music, built-in speakers might disappoint you. Most of them are not designed to fill a room with rich, powerful sound.

3. Absence of Advanced Audio Features

High-quality external speakers or dedicated sound systems often come with features like surround sound, bass control, and customizable equalizers. Unfortunately, built-in monitor speakers typically lack these enhancements.

4. Positioning Issues

Since the speakers are integrated into the monitor, they usually fire sound either downward or backward. This can negatively affect audio clarity and make it harder to hear details, especially in noisy environments.

💡 When Are Monitors with Built-In Speakers Worth It?

There are certain scenarios where built-in speakers can actually be a smart choice:

✅ Office & Productivity Use

If you're simply working on spreadsheets, attending Zoom meetings, or watching tutorial videos, built-in speakers are more than sufficient. You don’t need booming bass or high-definition audio to get through your workday.

✅ Casual Users & Minimalists

Not everyone has the time or desire to fine-tune their audio setup. If you prefer simplicity and a clean, clutter-free desk, built-in speakers provide a straightforward solution without any extra components.

✅ Budget-Friendly Setups

If you're putting together a budget PC setup, saving money wherever possible is key. A monitor with built-in speakers can serve as a cost-effective solution instead of spending extra on external audio devices.

🔊 When You Should Avoid Them

If you fall into any of the following categories, you might be better off investing in dedicated external speakers or headphones:

❌ Gamers

Serious gamers need precise, immersive audio to hear every footstep, gunshot, or explosion. The weak, flat sound of built-in speakers won’t deliver the audio quality needed for a superior gaming experience.

❌ Music Enthusiasts

If you’re an audiophile or someone who enjoys high-quality sound, built-in speakers just won’t cut it. Dedicated speakers or headphones offer richer sound, better bass response, and a more immersive listening experience.

❌ Movie Buffs

Want to enjoy a cinematic experience at home? Built-in monitor speakers are not ideal. Movies rely heavily on sound effects and depth, and weak speakers can ruin the immersion.

🎵 Built-In Speakers vs. External Speakers: A Side-by-Side Comparison

| Feature | Built-In Monitor Speakers | External Speakers |
|------------------|----------------------|----------------|
| Sound Quality | Basic, lacks depth | Rich, immersive sound |
| Volume | Limited volume | Can get much louder |
| Desk Space | Saves space | Requires extra space |
| Convenience | No setup needed | Requires additional setup |
| Price | Included with monitor | Can range from cheap to expensive |
| Customization | Very limited | EQ settings, surround sound, and more |

🎯 Should You Buy a Monitor with Built-In Speakers?

It all comes down to your needs. If you value convenience, minimalism, and just need sound for basic tasks, a monitor with built-in speakers can be a decent choice.

However, if you care about sound quality—whether for gaming, watching movies, or enjoying music—you’re better off investing in a dedicated pair of external speakers or high-quality headphones.

Pro Tip: If you're on a tight budget but still want better sound, consider getting an entry-level soundbar or affordable desktop speakers. Even a modest external speaker setup will outperform built-in monitor audio.

🎤 Final Thoughts

Monitors with built-in speakers can be a practical solution in specific situations, but they aren’t for everyone. While they offer convenience and save space, they generally fall short in terms of audio quality and performance.

Before making a purchase, think about how important sound quality is for your daily activities. If crisp and immersive audio matters to you, investing in external speakers is the way to go. But if you prefer an all-in-one setup for basic use, built-in speakers can serve you just fine.

Whatever you choose, make sure it aligns with your needs and enhances your overall experience. After all, good sound can make all the difference!