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Last year, as I set up my new home office, I faced a simple yet puzzling question while staring at my sleek, minimalist monitor: do monitors have speakers? I’d upgraded from a clunky desktop with separate speakers, craving a clutter-free space. What followed was a journey of discovery—filled with surprises, frustrations, and lessons about what truly matters in a monitor’s audio setup.

Options for Monitors and Speakers

My first step was researching online, and I quickly realized the answer isn’t universal. Many monitors—especially those for general use, home offices, or casual gaming—do include built-in speakers. Websites like Best Buy and Walmart let me filter results by “integrated speakers,” revealing hundreds of models from brands like Dell, ASUS, and Lenovo. Even Amazon’s search for “monitors with built-in speakers” showed strong demand, with thousands of reviews from users seeking convenience.

But not all monitors are created equal. Budget models often skip speakers to cut costs, while high-end gaming or professional monitors prioritize screen quality over audio. I remember scrolling through PCMag’s “Best Monitors” list and seeing some models praise their speakers as a “pro,” while others buried “no speakers” in the specs. It was a sharp reminder: assumptions about built-in audio can lead to disappointment.

The Temptation of a Simplified Setup

As a remote worker who enjoys casual streaming, the idea of a monitor with built-in speakers was initially irresistible. No tangled cables, no extra devices cluttering my desk—just plug in the HDMI, and audio worked. During a video call on a friend’s monitor, the setup was seamless: clear sound for meetings, quick tutorials, and lunchtime YouTube clips. For basic tasks, it felt like a dream come true.

But the honeymoon ended when I watched a movie. The audio was flat, thin, and frustratingly quiet. Dialogue lacked depth, and action scenes had no bass, making the experience feel hollow. I realized built-in speakers are a convenience, not a solution—great for “good enough” moments but not for anything that demands immersion.

When Built-In Sound Falls Short

Let’s talk honestly: most monitor speakers are underwhelming. Reddit threads from gaming and tech communities were a wake-up call. Users described sound as “tinny,” “cardboard-like,” and incapable of handling loud volumes without distortion. One gamer complained that positional audio was so poor, in-game footsteps sounded like they were inside their head, not the virtual world.

My own gaming test confirmed this. A mid-range gaming monitor’s speakers muffled gunfire and footsteps in Fortnite, robbing the game of its thrill. Switching to headphones instantly restored crisp highs, booming lows, and directional clarity—a night-and-day difference. Even tech guides admitted that while some smart monitors have “decent” speakers, serious audio enthusiasts need external gear.

Unexpected Moments When Built-Ins Shine

Not all hope is lost for built-in speakers. I found scenarios where they’re not just acceptable but ideal:

Minimalist Workspaces: For a clean desk setup focused on video calls or light tasks, they eliminate clutter. I used a compact monitor in my guest room and loved the simplicity—no extra gadgets needed.
Temporary Setups: During a month-long stay at family’s house, a monitor with built-in speakers became my temporary workspace. It was quick to set up and perfect for short-term needs.
Budget Constraints: If you can’t afford both a quality monitor and external speakers, built-ins offer a passable stopgap for casual use.

I even found exceptions: some smart monitors (like Samsung’s M7) and premium all-in-ones have surprisingly solid audio—enough for movie nights without frustration. But as Arzopa’s blog warned, always check reviews; quality varies wildly.

Weighing Built-In vs. External Audio

The decision boils down to what you value:

Choose built-ins for…
- A clutter-free desk and hassle-free setup.
- Basic needs like meetings, alerts, or casual streaming.
- Tight budgets where every dollar counts.
Opt for external audio if…
- You’re a gamer, movie lover, or music enthusiast craving immersion.
- You work with audio and need accurate, high-quality sound.
- You’ve tried built-ins and felt underwhelmed (like I did).

Connecting external speakers is easier than you think. Most monitors have 3.5mm jacks, HDMI audio outputs, or USB ports, making it simple to add soundbars, gaming headsets, or studio monitors. I now use a compact soundbar, and it transformed my experience—richer, louder, and infinitely more engaging.

Gaps in Advice That Left Me Searching

My research uncovered frustrating omissions—information that would’ve saved me time and trial-and-error:

Where Are the “Good” Built-In Models? Everyone criticizes average speakers, but few highlight exceptions. I had to dig for models like the LG 27UK650-W (decent bass) or HP Envy 32 (full sound). A curated list of “standout built-in speaker monitors” would’ve been invaluable.
Detailed Audio Comparisons: I wanted to know exactly how built-ins stack up to external options—bass response, volume limits, distortion at high levels. A side-by-side analysis with examples would help users visualize trade-offs.
Troubleshooting Guides: When my friend’s speakers failed, we spent hours troubleshooting. A guide for driver issues, audio settings, and hardware fixes would alleviate common frustrations.
Design and Cost Trade-Offs: Does adding speakers make monitors thicker or pricier? I wondered if my ultra-thin monitor skipped speakers for sleekness—a compromise worth understanding.

Finding Balance in My Setup

After months of testing, my conclusion is clear: built-in monitor speakers are a useful tool, not a final destination. They’re perfect for quick, low-stakes tasks, but dedicated audio gear is a must for anyone who values sound quality.

I now embrace a hybrid approach. My monitor’s built-in speakers handle Zoom calls and system alerts, while a compact soundbar takes over for movies and gaming. It’s a balance of convenience and quality—no clutter, but no compromise on immersion.

To anyone asking do monitors have speakers: yes, many do, but the better question is what do you need them for? Start with built-ins if simplicity matters, but don’t hesitate to explore external options when your audio needs grow. And to creators: fill those information gaps! Help us find the hidden gems, troubleshoot issues, and understand the “why” behind monitor audio choices.

In the end, the right setup isn’t about perfection—it’s about matching your monitor’s sound to how you want to experience your digital world: whether through the quiet efficiency of built-ins or the rich, immersive roar of external speakers.

Have you struggled with monitor audio? Share your tips in the comments—I’d love to hear how you’ve crafted your ideal setup!

Do Monitors Have Speakers?

Options for Monitors and Speakers

The Temptation of a Simplified Setup

When Built-In Sound Falls Short

Unexpected Moments When Built-Ins Shine

Weighing Built-In vs. External Audio

Gaps in Advice That Left Me Searching

Finding Balance in My Setup

Related Posts

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STAY IN TOUCH

Do Monitors Have Speakers?

Options for Monitors and Speakers

The Temptation of a Simplified Setup

When Built-In Sound Falls Short

Unexpected Moments When Built-Ins Shine

Weighing Built-In vs. External Audio

Gaps in Advice That Left Me Searching

Finding Balance in My Setup

Related Posts

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

PRODUCTS

Blog

Legal

STAY IN TOUCH

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