Review: AmazonBasics A100 USB-Powered Computer Speakers
Last year I purchased a brand new PC for my new freelance career and was able to choose what components were used to build it which was great; except that I forgot to ask for speakers to be included!
Until recently I had been using some external speakers which had started to play up and wouldn’t always work due to power failures (despite being plugged in) so I decided to look for an alternative.
Knowing that I didn’t need to have super duper speakers I decided to look for a decent basic speaker setup to use with my computer and whilst browsing Amazon I came across the AmazonBasics A100 USB-Powered Computer Speakers which looked perfect for the job, so I ordered them for £11.99.
The AmazonBasics speakers have been designed to be compact with a simple, elegant modern design ideal perfect for setting up on a desk. They have been made to connect to almost any music player (phone, tablet, computer) via the attached 3.5mm stereo audio cable.
The speakers have a total RMS Power of 3W (1.5 per speaker) and are powered by 5V via USB, with LED power indicator and easy to use volume control with On / Standby functions. They weigh in at 572 g and at 7.8 x 7.8 x 12.5 cm they are great for moving around the house or putting in a bag and taking them with you.
When the box arrived it included two speakers (left and right) with an attached 3.5mm stereo audio cable and AC power plug. Setting them up was super easy, you just need to plug the USB cable into your device or the wall (mine plugs into my powered USB bus) and plug the 3.5mm jack into your audio device and you are set.
I have found that the sound produced by the AmazonBasics speakers is clear and bright both for computer notifications as well as playing music to keep me entertained whilst working. The speakers work seamlessly with my computer with no connectivity problems and so far have shown no signs of power failure. The volume control lowers and raises the sounds well and the louder sounds are as clear as the quieter tones.
The only slight annoyance with the speakers is that they do require 3 cables to work – connecting the speakers together, the speakers to the power and the speakers to the audio source. Although this doesn’t bother me too much as they are just set up behind my computer monitor it might bother some people. If you are one of these people then a more costly wireless alternative may be for you.
Despite being a budget, basic product the AmazonBasics speakers feel well built and have been working brilliantly since they arrived. They have certainly made a difference to me when I’m working as I can hear notifications and can enjoy background music to keep me motivated!
I award the AmazonBasics speakers 5 out of 5 stars and definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a basic but effective product.
