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Willie Greer - October 11, 2021
If you have a small workspace, buying external speakers for a gaming monitor can be a hassle. Besides taking up too much space, finding ones suited for multiple monitor setup options isn’t that easy. Fortunately, our experts are here to guide you by testing the best monitors with built-in speakers to see which one will deliver a better sound experience.
Gaming Monitor
- Built-in Speakers
- Multiple HDMI ports
- Curved Gaming Monitor
- Audio Line Out Port
- Refresh Rate: 60hz
- Response Time: 5ms
- Aspect Ratio: 21:9
Panel Monitor
- VESA Mounting Holes
- Display Port
- Response Time: 5ms
- Thin Bezel Design
- Full HD Resolution
- HDMI Connectivity
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
19203R Monitor
- VGA Port Options
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Response Time: 5ms
- Thin Bezel Design
- Full HD Resolution
- HDMI Connectivity
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
Reviews of the Top Monitors with Built-In Speakers
BenQ GW2780 IPS Panel Monitor
Unlike an ordinary computer monitor, BenQ GW2780 doesn’t require a separate audio connection. Suitable for space-savers like you, this monitor offers 2-way built-in speakers in its system.
Upon closer look, our testers noticed that this gaming monitor has an audio line for external speaker integration. However, it’s highly unlikely that you’ll use this port because this unit already includes a tweeter and a woofer. These audio drivers are meant to enhance your listening experience without extra sound support.
Besides having the loudest speakers, this monitor features LED and IPS display technology to enjoy full HD resolution image quality. It also has a low blue light filter to lessen eye fatigue.
What We Like
- Engineered with flicker-free technology
- Affordable larger sized computer monitor
- Two integrated speakers for enhanced sound quality
- Ultra-thin bezels and a great aspect ratio
- Highly compatible with VESA mount setup
- Great picture quality and wide viewing angle
What We Don't Like
- Needs bigger table space than other monitor offers
- Additional costs for software accessories
Dell P3418HW Gaming Monitor
If a curved gaming monitor with speakers is what you seek, Dell P3418HW has the exact features you’re looking for. Despite not having an affordable price tag, this Dell monitor produces a lifelike sound quality greatly owed to its two 9W built-in speakers.
Our audio experts didn’t have to connect external speakers in this unit as it already delivered an immersive combination of sound and visual quality during the test. It’s also a perfectly sized monitor with an amazingly thin-bezel design.
On top of all that, it has gaming monitor boosts like 60 Hz refresh rate, response time, and FreeSync technology.
What We Like
- Integrated with AMD FreeSync Technology
- Best curved monitor for casual gaming
- Includes multiple HDMI port options
- Provides a cinematic 21:9 aspect ratio
What We Don't Like
- Costs more than other IPS panel monitors
- Product protection plan sold separately
Sceptre E248W-19203R Monitor
Believe it or not, the best monitors with built-in speakers can be more affordable than you think. Amid testing Sceptre E248W-19203R’s speaker system, our team was immediately impressed with the smooth sound from its 2x2W audio drivers.
It has a great response time and refresh rate, proving that it can be a decent gaming monitor as well. Engineered with multiple HDMI ports, this budget monitor surely provides diverse audio and video options.
Upon closer look, we got the chance to admire the sleek and metallic design of this PC monitor. We were treated to a boundless viewing experience, all thanks to the thin bezels and chassis of this VA panel monitor.
What We Like
- Best gaming monitor for a tight budget
- Provides fast response time and refresh rate
- Standard contrast and aspect ratio
- Suited for both work and gaming tasks
- Thin bezel design and detachable stand
What We Don't Like
- Smaller screen than other VA panel monitors
- Product availability may vary differently
Dell S2421H Full HD Monitor
Another best cheap monitor our audio team tested for this roundup is Dell S2421H. More than anything else, we’re sure that its dual 3-Way built-in speaker will satisfy the sound needs of any casual gaming environment.
If you want to integrate this budget monitor with a separate audio system, all you have to do is connect it through its audio input port. Given that this unit runs with IPS technology, it was no surprise to our testers that it has better color and contrast than most VA and TN panel monitors.
What We Like
- Integrated with decent sounding speakers
- Has an IPS display that delivers better picture
- Features 8ms response time & 75hz refresh rate
- Flicker-free and not damaging to the eyes
- Includes a highly adjustable and ergonomic stand
What We Don't Like
- More suitable for lighter gaming and working tasks
- May need an extra USB docking station
SideTrak Solo Pro IPS Panel Monitor
For a portable display, we can say that SideTrak Solo Pro is such a well-packed gaming monitor. While it’s not the best monitor for its smaller screen size, our resident gamers were astounded upon knowing that it’s a monitor with speakers built-in.
During the setup, we were able to freely adjust its audio volume according to our testers’ preferences suited for a personalized viewing experience. On top of its built-in speakers, this monitor features IPS technology that keeps its screen with bright and colorful picture quality.
Besides faster response time, this gaming monitor with speakers has low input lag or latency, enhancing any gameplay environment.
What We Like
- Highly portable and cheap monitor
- Has reliable integrated speakers
- Has fast response time and low input lag
- Delivers standard 16:9 aspect ratio
What We Don't Like
- Compatibility with other devices may vary
- Troubleshooting assistance only available on weekdays
Sceptre C275B-1858RN Curved Monitor
While many believe that the best curved monitors often come from popular brands, our audiovisual team begs to disagree after testing Sceptre C275B-1858RN. Its 2-way audio driver especially stood out the most while we’re trying its built-in speakers.
Its ports can carry sound channels to an external audio device as well. Besides its being a monitor with built-in speakers, it’s hard not to take notice of its top-tier gaming features, like its ultra-fast response time that lessens blur.
And did you know that it’s the only monitor with speakers on this list boosting at 165Hz refresh rate? A considerably high transition rate for an option at this budget scale.
What We Like
- Suitable monitor with speakers for gaming
- Has multiple wired connectivity options
- Higher refresh rate and response time than others
- Designed with a space-saving construction
What We Don't Like
- Higher price tag than some monitors
- Gaming console compatibility may vary
Philips 273V7QJAB Full HD Monitor
There are very few monitors with an awesome sound system, and Philips 273V7QJAB is one of them. Its pair of stereo speakers integrated into its construction make it easier for users to avoid desktop clutter.
This monitor with speakers also has DisplayPort, VGA, and HDMI connections, enabling our testers to enjoy audio and visual content in high-definition. If you’re the type who’s prone to eye strain, its BlueMode and EasyRead Mode settings will help you work on the screen at ease.
Like most of the best monitors with speakers built-in in the market, this unit runs with an IPS LED technology combo. It delivers consistent brightness and colors throughout our entire testing procedure.
What We Like
- Best monitors to prevent eye damage
- Affordable monitor with speakers
- Has industry standard response time
- Designed with narrow monitor border
What We Don't Like
- Requires careful handling
- Delivery duration may vary
ASUS BE24EQK IPS Monitor
Besides gaming, a monitor with speakers is essential when taking on conference calls or watching webinars for work. Because of this, our team took a chance and tested ASUS BE24EQK IPS Monitor. Equipped with stereo speakers, this ASUS display can produce a crystal clear sound fit for your office needs.
Although this monitor with speakers has an affordable price range, it features an exquisite construction and ergonomic stand for convenient usability. It also doesn’t lack swift response time and flicker-free functionalities.
Like the ones we chose for this roundup, this ASUS monitor with built-in speakers will blow you away with its diverse connectivity, making external integration easier.
What We Like
- Includes multiple connectivity options
- Well-constructed and ergonomic design
- Budget-friendly monitor with speakers built-in
- Space-saving and compatible with VESA wall mount
What We Don't Like
- More suitable for business or work tasks
- Frameless design requires careful handling
HP VH240a Full HD Monitor
If you’re planning for a multi-monitor setup, HP VH240a Full HD Monitor could be the missing piece of your workstation. Besides being a monitor with speakers, this unit has 4-way viewing options solely dedicated for that integration.
No matter what multimedia content played on its screen, this unit reproduces crystal-clear image details. It has an anti-glare panel meant to make the display consistent even if you place the monitor in a well-lit room.
Along with its built-in speakers, its fluid response time impressed us as well. The smoothness of its display proved that it could be used in both gaming and document processing environments.
What We Like
- Integrated with reliable built-in speakers
- Has anti-glare features for consistent display
- Suitable for both gaming and document processing
- Delivers superb brightness and colors
- Multiple connectivity configurations
What We Don't Like
- Not a curved monitor
- PC accessories not included
Benmiuko 14-Inch Monitor with Built-in Speakers
The smallest monitor with speakers that our audiovisual team tested is from Benmiuko. While it’s not the best monitor to consider for movie marathon streaming, it has a built-in speaker that most standard displays don’t have.
Upon checking, we also found out that it has various connectivity options from HDMI, USB, to VGA. Its wide viewing capacities also allowed us to view the screen at any angle without having a distorted image quality.
The Benmiuko 14-inch monitor is a highly diverse model with built-in speakers that’ll deliver your display and audio needs in different applications you see fit.
What We Like
- Economic monitor with speakers
- Would suit different display and audio needs
- Has a decent number of connectivity ports
- Has wide viewing angle for better viewings
What We Don't Like
- A lot smaller than other options
- Not very suited for gaming
HP 23.8" Full HD (1920x1080) IPS LED PC Monitor
When we talk about the best PC screens in the market, it’s hard not to mention HP monitor brands. After we bumped into HP 23.8″ Full HD (1920×1080), the testers were pleased with its built-in speakers that deliver 2 Wattages per channel. It works delightfully with most content we played on the screen as well.
Additionally, this best monitor with built-in speakers only has a 5ms response time, displaying less motion blur. If you’re a fan of boundless viewing, you’ll definitely like its bezel-less design.
With a 1080p resolution to go along with its good sound quality, we can say that this HP monitor with speakers earns its rightful spot in this roundup.
What We Like
- Versatile monitor with speakers for different setups
- Designed with ultra-wide screen construction
- Offers great sound and picture quality
- Includes accessory for the monitor
What We Don't Like
- Availability of the product may vary
- Setting up takes a bit of time
Monitors with Built-In Speakers Buyer’s Guide
Size and Design
Before you buy the best monitor with speakers built-in, you must ensure if the unit suits the available table space in your work or gaming station. But of course, this wouldn’t be an issue if you intend to keep your monitor wall-mounted. For that setup, try checking out the design of your preferred product and ensure that it’s VESA wall mount compatible.
Some options available in the market have adjustable monitor stand designs as well. This feature will allow you to pull it higher, tilt, and even rotate the screen according to your comfort.
During the search, our experts noticed that the screen size of most options correlates with their prices. In that perspective, users may expect a bigger monitor with built-in speakers to be more expensive than the smaller ones.
Besides monitor sizes, ultra-wide units tend to have aspect ratios of 16:9 up to 21:9. If your monitor has this feature, it means its display can be viewed 30 percent wider. Having broader displays is also recommended for intense work tasks that require the user to open multiple tabs or for more immersive gameplay.
Resolution
Although it’s great to buy a monitor with built-in speakers, never forget to consider the resolution of the unit. Screen sizes may vary differently, but did you know that two of the same sizes can have different resolutions? Both features do not affect one another directly.
For monitors sized 24 to 27 inches, it’s quite typical to find ones with 1920×1080 Full HD and 2560×1440 Quad HD resolutions. Although a higher count of pixels suggests sharper picture quality, both resolutions are detailed enough to execute different display applications.
Quad HD and Full HD monitors with built-in speakers are great for most popular games. However, if you’re a professional designer or gamer, our team would recommend 4K screens with 3840×2160 resolution. While they’re relatively more expensive than the rest, the visual details they deliver are incomparable to other options.
Besides being previously mentioned, there are also monitors with 5K and 8K resolution. However, what you should get will depend on the kind of content you intend to display.
It’s also wise to note that the availability of this type of monitor with built-in speakers is very rare to come by. Because they tend to be expensive, most manufacturers opt to release models with lower resolution.
Brightness and Color Accuracy
To check if the monitor has precise brightness and color levels, all you have to do is utilize the built-in calibration settings of the unit [1]. If you’re not an average user and prefer to relocate your work or gaming station from time to time, our testers highly suggest purchasing monitors with anti-glare functions.
With this feature, the color and brightness accuracy of your monitor with built-in speakers wouldn’t be affected even if you place it in a dark or well-lit room. Accurate color reproduction also allows users to enjoy lifelike picture quality when multimedia content is played on its screen.
Most professionals working in the field of design prefer monitors with properly aligned hardware and software configurations. As you know, it is crucial in their line of work to present colors and details in the same manner viewed in the real world. In gaming, inaccurate color and glaring brightness could ruin the gameplay as well.
Panel Type
You may not know it, but the difference in image quality, response time, and viewing angle between monitors heavily depend on the type of panel technologies used in their systems. Right now, there are four dominating kinds of panels in the market, which you saw in the above product roundup.
If your monitor with built-in speakers runs with a TN panel, expect the display to have great responsiveness and lower input lag. However, these advantages are at the expense of slightly inaccurate colors and contrasts. It’s not the best option for wide viewing as well. A small shift in sitting angle would compromise display distortions.
Among the most popular panels in the industry are IPS monitors. Compared to TN panels, our testers can attest that it delivers a more accurate image quality. From its brightness, viewing angle, or color level, the overall display of IPS reigns superior to its alternative.
And because it does offer the visual configuration designers oh-so seek for a monitor, expect it to cost more than other options available out there.
On the other hand, VA panels tend to have better image quality than TN monitors. In fact, it is slightly better than IPS except for the viewing angles. With higher refresh rates, most VA monitors with built-in speakers that we tested suit many gaming software.
Off-angle viewing is not advised with this type of panel, and response times could be a bit longer than other options. On the bright side, there’s no doubt that it delivers higher brightness and contrast levels.
Last but not least is the OLED panel. As the newest panel technology out of the bunch, it didn’t surprise our team that this option costs higher compared to its alternatives. If you’re keen on having the best response time, color precision, and contrast ratio, OLED’s gray technology will give you that. However, the chances of image retention are very likely in this panel.
Like screen sizes, panel types are heavily related to the prices of the monitors. So the best advice we could give is to weigh your budget and needs first before making a purchase. After all, you wouldn’t want to end up with a panel type that doesn’t suit your current viewing needs.
Refresh Rate and Response Time
What’s the use of having a monitor with built-in speakers if the content doesn’t display smoothly on the screen? With that question in mind, you should get ones with at least a 60hz refresh rate. Through this, your screen will refresh 60 times every second. The higher this metric, the smoother your display will be during the viewing.
If you’re into high-speed and high-motion gaming, the best you can get are monitors with 100hz to 240hz refresh rates. Most options with this feature can keep up with the audio and visual needs of many popular games.
Response time is also a crucial factor to consider for gaming. This metric tells the user the duration of how long the image will update on the screen. The faster or lower it is, the smoother transition it’ll display. If you notice, monitors are labeled with GtG response rate or most commonly known as grey to grey. Generally, TN monitor panels tend to have the lowest RT.
Given that it affects the overall display quality of your monitor, our audiovisual experts recommend buying ones with 5ms response times or below. No worries though, top manufacturers nowadays tend to release gaming displays with lower response duration.
Wattage
The wattage of a built-in speaker is the amount of power it can produce in each output channel. It should be powerful enough to the point where you won’t be needing any external audio system.
On top of this, typical monitors sold in the market range from 20 W to 100 W power consumption. Keep in mind that wattage ratings depend on the brand and model of your monitor. In some cases, larger displays also mean higher wattage requirements.
For example, if you use a 21-inch monitor for around three hours every day, your power consumption will range for about 0.3 kilowatt-hours.
Lucky for you, there are manufacturers who equip their monitors with energy-saving features according to the configuration the users selected.
Connectivity Options
Modern computer monitors must come with various connectivity options for easier integration with other devices. During the entire testing, our team made sure to select options with the common ports and cables like HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C.
If you have outdated devices that you’d like to integrate with your monitor, it’ll help if it’s compatible with VGA and DVI as well. Unfortunately, not all monitors come with these five connectivity options.
For your convenience, our testers suggested monitors compatible with HDMI cables. Why? Because HDMI connectivity remains the main standard of many film companies like Disney. Most game manufacturers also consider HDMI as the most suitable connection for their content releases.
For a premium gaming monitor with speakers, DisplayPort is a standard connectivity option as well. This feature is capable of multiple transmission via a single cable, which is why it’s very efficient for intensive tasks like video editing and gaming.
Although it’s a bit outdated, it still pays off to have VGA ports in the monitor. If you’re a fan of older game consoles, VGA cables are often its standard connection requirements. It is also widely used on many projectors for businesses and schools.
Controls
It’s not a secret that each of us has different viewing and listening preferences. What may be comfortable for a user may not be as good for another. During the initial testing, our experts ensure that most options in this list have image calibration settings.
Through this, the brightness and contrast of your monitor can be adjusted according to one’s liking. Some options even have different viewing modes like low blue light and easy read mode to lessen eye fatigue of the users. These controls are meant to make your viewing experiences easier and more efficient.
VESA Mounting
Although we would always remind you to check your deskspace, mounting your gaming monitor with speakers is a different story. First and foremost, you should know that not all screens are suitable for this kind of setup.
So if you plan to do this, our audiovisual team suggests checking its VESA compatibility. If you take a closer look, you’ll see that the back construction of these monitors has mountable holes. Besides that, it also helps if your monitor is thin enough because thick construction could lead to its back sticking out and unstable mounting.
What are the Benefits of Monitors with Built-In Speakers?
When you buy a monitor with speakers, you are assured of saving space. Most of the time, options that need an external audio system occupy the desk and create clutter that’s not pleasing to the eyes.
Besides unsightly wirings, some options with built-in speakers have relatively decent sound quality comparable to other external speakers out there. If you’re not an audiophile or your game doesn’t need heart-pounding audio effects, then it’s only right to get a unit with such features.
On top of that, screens with integrated audio systems can save you money in the long run. As you know, buying a monitor is already not that cheap. If you think about it, purchasing a separate speaker will surely add up to your expenses even if you don’t really need it in the first place.
You can also pass up compatibility issues if your monitor already has speakers in its system. Most external sound devices have various connectivity requirements that users need to take note of when buying one for their monitors.
Unlike the common misconceptions, recent monitor releases already have reliable audio drivers. WIth dual speaker designs and a woofer driver integrated into its system, these selections can compare to the sound reproduction of external audio devices in the market.
Connecting External Speakers to a Computer Monitor
For audiophiles, it’s crucial to check if your computer monitors can accommodate different external audio setups. Many users struggle to configure their speakers into units, so it’s especially essential for you to know what to do when this happens.
Before anything else, ensure that your HDMI cable is appropriately connected to the monitor’s port. If you’re trying to set up DVI-to-HDMI, keep in mind that it’s only possible if your graphics card supports audio over DVI. If not, there should be audio input ports on the unit.
After taking care of the wiring, the next thing you should do is check the computer’s configuration. Through the system’s setting, you need to set the default sound. Through this, your audio will consistently play according to the preference you’ve set.
In the computer’s control panel, select the option Hardware & Sound. From there, click the sound thumbnail. There should be a pop-up window appearing in the center of your screen. You’ll see settings for headsets and speakers in the selections. Click the one you prefer and set it as default.
Don’t forget to test the audio out after changing the settings to see if it’s working according to your requirements. If your monitor doesn’t have an audio jack, our testers recommend using an HDMI audio extractor.
FAQ
Is it better to get a monitor with built-in speakers?
Yes, it’s better to get a monitor with built-in speakers if you have limited space. It’s no secret that getting an external audio device would require additional desk space. Besides that, it’ll be an additional expense. If you’re not using the monitor in intense audio tasks, monitors with speakers are a good choice.
Do gaming monitors have speakers built-in?
Yes, gaming monitors have speakers built-in. While older displays available in the market don’t include audio features, newer models are often designed with dual speaker construction and a woofer driver that suits intense gameplay needs. Most of these options deliver great audio without the need for external support.
How do I know if my monitor has built-in speakers?
You’ll know if your monitor has built-in speakers if you check the configuration of your computer unit. Click on the audio icon on the taskbar of your system and view the playback devices list. For monitors connected via DP or HDMI, the name of your monitor should be on the list.
Our Top Pick For a Monitor with Built-in Speakers:
BenQ GW2780 IPS Panel Monitor
The best monitors with built-in speakers shouldn’t be overwhelming to handle, which is why our audiovisual experts decided to hail BenQ GW2780 as our top pick in this evaluation. While other options are indeed tough contenders, this unit proved its superiority through its versatile connectivity, mountable design, and superb audio quality. For a larger-sized monitor, this option is undoubtedly more affordable as well.
