I think it’s safe to say that you’ll agree with us on one thing!
While speakers under $200 usually produce great music, not all of them deliver the awe-inspiring performance like their more expensive counterparts.
To tackle this issue, we thoroughly tested the most popular products and found these to be the 10 best speakers under $200.
Hopefully, this review will help you decide which product best suits your desires.
Most of our choices produced great results, while some had a few issues here & there. In the end though, these 3 passed our testing with flying colors.
Top Pick
The wireless connectivity & good user-interface of our top pick makes it an excellent choice if you’re looking for a convenient option.
Runner Up
The runner-up possesses soft dome tweeters & a poly-cellulose woofer. So, if it’s the full-range sound you want, then this one’s a good option.
Also Great
Another popular product, thanks to its classic wooden cabinets & improved bass response. It’ll be hard to find more stylish speakers than this.
Now let’s take an in-depth look at the best 10 speakers under 200.
Best Speakers Under 200 - Top 10 Reviews
1. Most User-friendly Speakers Under 200 - Edifier R1850DB Active Bookshelf Speakers with Bluetooth and Optical Input Review
Not most products that can match the user-friendly nature of Edifier R1850DB.
We tested it’s Bluetooth feature in great detail. Our results show it has an impressive range and maintains consistent connectivity upon pairing with a smart device.
There’s also the remote control, which gives you easy access to the speaker’s volume, track and input selection.
Best Speakers Under 200 - Main Features of Edifier R1850DB Active Bookshelf Speakers with Bluetooth and Optical Input
- 1. Bluetooth V4.0 that gives wide and consistent wireless connectivity.
- 2. Treble/bass control to adjust the woofer.
- 3. Wireless remote to easily control the speaker’s multiple functions.
- 4. Digital inputs to connect to turntables.
- Great sound
- User-friendly
- Wireless connectivity
- Subpar high-range performance
What makes these speakers so attractive is just how easy they are to operate. So, if it’s a convenience you want, do keep this product in mind.
2. Best Full-range Speakers Under 200 - JBL Arena B15 Black Bookshelf & Surround Speaker with Special Edition Grilles & Logo Set of 2 Black Review
This speaker has a compact design which makes it suitable to be placed in cabinets. Not only that, but the quality of the bass is also amazing due to the 5.5 inches woofer.
The thing that we really like about this product is that it delivers a phenomenal full-range quality courtesy of the 25-millimeter soft dome tweeter.
Finally, it also comes with mounting brackets that allow you to mount the speakers on your walls.
Main Features of JBL Arena B15 Black Bookshelf & Surround Speaker
- 1. A 25-millimeter soft dome tweeter
- 2. 5.5 inches woofer
- 3. 17.42 pounds weight
- 4. 8.6 x 18.5 x 16.5 inches dimension
- Compact design
- Good bass quality
- The full-range quality is amazing
- The mounting brackets are a bit weak
If you are looking for a speaker with a compact design and good bass quality, then this product is perfect for you.
3. Best Speakers Under 200 for Bass - Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Andrew Jones Designed Bookshelf Loudspeakers Review
The first thing that we noticed about this speaker was that it had a curved design. Not only did that make it easy for us to place it on the shelves, but it also made the speaker look aesthetically pleasing.
Another thing that surprised us was the quality of sound that this speaker had to offer. Due to the 1-inch soft dome tweeter, the sound quality is nothing short of professional.
It also has a great high-range frequency which is a welcomed feature.
Main Features of Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Andrew Jones Designed Bookshelf Loudspeakers
- 1. Curved design
- 2. 1-inch soft-dome tweeter
- 3. 9.13 pounds weight
- 4. 8.4 x 7.1 x 12.6 inches dimensions
- Professional sound
- Aesthetically pleasing design
- Good high-range frequencies
- The treble is lacking
Are you looking for a professional sounding speaker with good bass? If yes, then this product is ideal for you.
4. Best Mid-range Speakers Under 200 - Swans Speakers M100MKII Powered 2.0 Wireless Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers Review
Calling this a good mid-range speaker is an understatement. In fact, it has the best mid-range frequency out of any other speaker on this list.
Not only does it have an excellent mid-range, but the speakers also have aluminum heat dispersion which allows it to produce a clear sound.
To further enhance your experience, there is little to none sound distortion. We loved that you can connect your devices via Bluetooth with these speakers.
Main Features of Swans Speakers M100MKII Powered 2.0 Wireless Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
- 1. Wireless Bluetooth connection
- 2. Heat dispersion
- 3. 19.84 pounds weight
- 4. 23 x 18.9 x 13 inches dimensions
- Excellent mid-range
- Minimal noise distortion
- Clear sound
- Sometimes the speakers make a buzzing noise
This product is suitable for people looking for speakers with clear sound and minimal sound distortion.
5. Best Speakers Under 200 in Sound Quality - Polk Audio RTI A1 Bookshelf Speakers (Pair, Black) Review
A feature that we wish is installed in every speaker is the heat sink. It not only allows the speaker to remain cool, but it also means that you can use it for a prolonged period of time.
Furthermore, the frame of this speaker is made out of wood, making it extremely durable. It is also really lightweight.
Another thing that impressed us was the fantastic quality of the bass.
Main Features of Polk Audio RTI A1 Bookshelf Speakers
- 1. Heat sink
- 2. 12 pounds weight
- 3. 11.5 x 12 x 7 inches dimensions
- 4. Frame made out of wood
- This does not overheat even in prolonged uses
- Durable frame
- Bass quality is superb
- Customer service is lacking
These speakers are made for users that are looking for a durable product that has superb bass quality.
6. Best Speaker Under 200 in Audio Clarity - Sony SSCS5 3-Way 3-Driver Bookshelf Speaker System (Pair) Review
We were really excited to test this product because of all the positive reviews. Needless to say, we are satisfied with this product and here’s why.
First of all, these speakers give an accurate sound, mainly because of the woofer which boosts the low-end frequencies.
Lastly, due to having a compact design, these speakers will easily fit in your cabinets.
Main Features of Sony SSCS5 3-Way 3-Driver Bookshelf Speaker System
- 1. Weighs 19.9 pounds
- 2. 17.9 x 10.7 x 16.2 inches dimensions
- 3. 19-millimeter soft dome super tweeter
- 4. 100 watts maximum input
- Precise sound
- The woofer boosts low-end frequencies
- They can be placed conveniently in cabinets
- Sound can distort at times
Whether you are looking for speakers that have precise sound or a compact design. This product covers both those needs and more.
7. Best High-range Speakers Under 200 - Klipsch R-14M 4-Inch Reference Bookshelf Speakers (Pair, Black) Review
If you are looking for speakers that have a stylish design, then this product has you covered. Not only is it good to look at, but it also does not distort the audio.
On top of this, we loved the quality of high-range frequency is absolutely superb.
These speakers will give you the best results if you use them in a small-medium sized room.
Main Features of Klipsch R-14M 4-Inch Reference Bookshelf Speakers
- 1. Weighs 14.1 pounds
- 2. 7.5 x 5.9 x 9.8 inches dimensions
- 3. 4-inch copper-spun woofer
- 4. 1-inch aluminum tweeter
- Suitable for small-medium rooms
- Great high-range frequency
- Stylish design
- The quality of the bass is unsatisfactory
Not only does this speaker have a stylish design, but it also has great high-range. If these features interest you, then keep your eye on this product.
8. Best Low-range Speaker Under 200 - BIC America DV62si Bookshelf Speakers (Pair, Black) Review
This speaker has the best low-range frequency out of any other speaker that we have tested. Not only that, but it also has good sensitivity which means that you will get loud and clear audio.
After testing this product, we firmly believe that this speaker is suitable for all music enthusiasts.
This speaker is definitely worth investing in. On top of that, the 6 inches woofer ensures that you get a loud bass.
Main Features of BIC America DV62si Bookshelf Speaker
- 1. 6 inches poly woofer
- 2. 90 decibels sensitivity
- 3. Black laminate finish
- 4. Weighs 25 pounds
- Good low-range frequency
- Great value for money
- Suitable for music enthusiasts
- The high-range is a bit lacking
If you are looking for a speaker that has a good low-range frequency, then this product is what you need to get.
9. Best Surround Sound Speaker Under 200 - Fluance Signature Series HiFi Two-Way Bookshelf Surround Sound Speakers Review
Have you ever wanted to find the most ideal speakers for your surround sound setup? Do not worry anymore because these speakers are great for that purpose.
Furthermore, they come with a detailed instructions manual which makes it convenient for beginners to install them.
The thing that we really appreciated was the fact that this product comes with a warranty and lifetime customer support.
Main Features of Fluance Signature Series HiFi Two-Way Bookshelf Surround Sound Speakers
- 1. High-end tweeters
- 2. Mid-range pointed dome
- 3. 9.7 pounds in weight
- 4. 8.3 x 7.9 x 12.8 inches dimensions
- Ideal for surround sound setups
- Comes with detailed instructions
- Comes with a warranty on parts
- The overall sound is not loud enough
Have you ever wanted to find the perfect speakers for your surround sound setup? If yes, then this is what you need to look out for.
10. Most Innovative Speaker Under 200 - Definitive Technology ProMonitor 1000-2-Way Satellite or Bookshelf Speaker Review
When we were testing this speaker it really mesmerized us. The design of this speaker is different from the rest as it can be placed on a stand horizontally.
On top of that, it comes with mounting brackets that allow you to mount it on your walls for more convenience.
We also like the powerful bass of this product. To add icing on the cake, it also has an exceptional audio quality which is matched by only a few.
Main Features of Definitive Technology ProMonitor 1000-2-Way Satellite or Bookshelf Speaker
- 1. Weighs 7.25 pounds
- 2. 6.5 x 6.3 x 10.9 inches dimensions
- 3. Mounting brackets included
- 4. Perpendicular bass
- It gives you the option to mount
- Powerful bass
- Exceptional audio quality
- Low-range frequency response time is poor
This speaker has a powerful bass and exceptional audio quality. If you are looking for these features, then this is made just for you.
Buyer’s Guide
What specifications should I consider before buying the speakers?
There are a few things that you should consider when getting a speaker. These things can include sensitivity, woofer material, surround sound quality, bass quality, power-handling, and tweeter size & material. If a speaker has all of these features, it will be costly. What you need to do is to do a little research to see which features you are looking for. Find a speaker that fulfills those requirements and is in your budget. There are many speakers in the market which have tons of features and are still affordable. Also, if you are planning to mount your speakers, you should look for speakers that have holes in the back. Some speakers also come with mounting brackets which makes it easy to hang them from either your wall or ceiling. Another thing you can look out for is the size of the speaker. If you are planning to place them in your cabinets, then find one that has a compact design.
Active or Passive speaker – what’s the difference?
Active speakers are the ones that do not need any external power source. They come with built-in amplifiers that automatically power them. All you need to do is plug them in and you can start using them. On the other hand, passive speakers require an outside source of power. They do not have a built-in amplifier. For them to work, you will need to buy a separate amplifier. Most of the speakers that are made for home use are passive speakers which is why you always have to buy an amplifier with them.
What do Volume ratings in terms of dB tell you?
Usually, speakers have a sensitivity of 85-88 decibels. Anything over 120 decibels can be harmful to you if you listen to it over a prolonged period of time. A good speaker will have a sensitivity of 90 decibels. We recommend that you get a speaker in the 89-90 decibels range. It can be comfortable to listen to and at the same time, it will sound phenomenal. The audio will be clear and loud. Plus, the quality of bass and treble will also be exceptional.
Why do Impedance and Wattage-Matching matter?
Impedance and wattage-matching is a really important factor to consider before getting a speaker. If the speakers have high impedance, it means that the audio will be clearer and the bass will sound impeccable. Meanwhile, having high wattage-matching means that the speaker will have a louder sound as it will be more powerful.
How much difference does speaker placement make?
Speaker placement plays a vital role when it comes to speakers. Good placements will ensure that you are getting the best audio possible and you will have a good time. To make sure that you have good speaker placement, make sure that the area in which you are sitting is equal to the distance between each speaker. Try to make an equal-sided triangle. Try to position the speakers in such a way that all of them are facing the area in which you are planning to sit at. This will enrich your experience and you will get the best possible sound quality. A bad placement can mean that you will not get good audio quality and you might think it is due to the speakers. If you make sure that the placement is good, even average speakers can sound phenomenal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How is the bass response of Swans Speakers M100MKII?
The bass response of the Swans Speakers M100MKII is great. It is enough to enhance your experience and it does not distort the audio. We would say that this speaker has one of the best bass responses out of any that we have tested.
Do Polk Audio RTI A1 Bookshelf Speakers come with wires to connect to the receiver?
The Polk Audio RTI A1 speakers do not come with wires. You will have to buy them separately to connect to a receiver. To make this process simpler, we suggest that you get the banana plug wires which are easy to connect.
How do you connect Klipsch R-14M to a turntable with a built-in pre-amp?
Most of the bookshelf speakers are passive, including this one. What this means is that you have to buy a separate amplifier for them to work. This means that you cannot connect them without getting an amplifier. The turntable has a low output so that will not power the speakers.
Do BIC America DV62si Bookshelf Speakers have holes in the back for wall mounting?
Unfortunately, these speakers do not have any holes in the back for wall mounting. Since they are a little heavy, it would be difficult to mount them. These speakers have a compact design that can be easily stored in your cabinets.
Do Fluance Signature Series Bookshelf Speakers have a built-in amplifier?
Since these are passive speakers, they do not have a built-in amplifier. This means that you have to purchase a separate amplifier for them to work. Amplifiers are not that expensive and you can easily find one that will fulfill your requirements.
Are bookshelf speakers good for surround sound?
Normally the bookshelf speakers are not ideal for surround sound setups but there are a couple of models that excel in this field. They can give you an exceptional quality of surround sound and bass which will be perfect for your setup.
What’s the main use of Bookshelf speakers?
As the name suggests, the bookshelf speakers are designed in a way so that they can be easily placed on your cabinet or bookshelf. Not only do they have a compact design, but they are also mostly light in weight. These speakers are usually suitable for small-medium sized rooms.
What are active and passive bookshelf speakers?
To put it in simple terms, the active speakers are the ones that have an amplifier built inside them. Whereas, the passive speaker needs an external power source which means that you have to buy an amplifier for them to work. Usually, passive speakers are for residential use.
Would you recommend using bookshelf speakers without subwoofers?
A subwoofer is something that you do not need with your speakers. Your speakers work absolutely perfectly without it. With that being said, if you do not have a subwoofer, you have no idea what you’re missing out on. The subwoofer will enhance your overall experience.
Will it be OK to hang Definitive Technology Promonitor 1000 on my wall?
The Promonitor 1000 comes with a threaded hole on the back which makes it easy to mount it on your wall. You can even mount this speaker on the ceiling if you want to. We recommend that you get the butterfly mounting brackets for this product as it is heavy.
Wrapping Things Up
Most people install speakers for under 200 since they hold a fair price for the quality of entertainment they provide.
Our favorite speakers are easily Edifier R1850DB Active Bookshelf Speakers, due to their superior sound quality & convenient user interface.
And that concludes our article. Do let us know which speaker you’ll be installing for under 200.