We compared two USB-powered 2.0 desktop speakers: the Amazon Basics PC Speakers 2.0 and the Creative Pebble 2.0 USB Speakers.
What we looked at
Power, drivers, controls, size, and price.
The verdict
If you want a stated 2.4W total with an in-line volume control and a metal finish at the lower price, the Amazon Basics is the pick at £19.94. If you would rather pay £3.91 more for far-field drivers, rear passive radiators and 45° elevated drivers in a spherical design, the Creative Pebble is the alternative, at £23.85.
A £19.94 2.4W USB-powered pair with a 3.5mm input and brushed metal finish.
A £23.85 USB-powered pair with far-field drivers and passive radiators.
Amazon Basics PC Speakers Stereo 2.0, 3.5mm Input, USB-Powered (Black) — Best Value
Intended for: Marketed as a pair of stereo 2.0 desktop speakers with a 3.5mm audio input and USB power, rated at 2.4 watts total RMS (1.2W per speaker) over 80Hz to 20kHz. The listing describes a brushed black metal finish with blue LED accents, an in-line volume control and a size of about 9.9 x 6.6 x 7.1cm per speaker. Carries 4.5 stars from 80.8K ratings on this listing.
What we liked
- Cheaper than the Creative on these listings, at £19.94
- Stated 2.4W total, 80Hz to 20kHz
- In-line volume control
- Very large review history (80.8K ratings)
Worth knowing
- Lower star rating than the Creative (4.5 vs 4.6)
- Low stated power, so best suited to desk listening
Best for
- Buyers who want the lower price
- Anyone who wants listed specs and an in-line volume control
- Those who want a metal finish with LED accents
Not ideal for
- Buyers who want elevated drivers and passive radiators
- Anyone who wants more power
CREATIVE Pebble 2.0 USB-Powered Desktop Speakers (Black) — Far-Field Drivers
Intended for: Marketed as USB-powered 2.0 desktop speakers in a spherical design with custom-tuned far-field drivers, rear-facing passive radiators for enhanced bass, drivers elevated at 45° for audio projection and front-facing volume controls. The listing includes a note that international products are sold from abroad and may differ from local products. Carries 4.6 stars from 66.7K ratings on this listing.
What we liked
- Far-field drivers and rear passive radiators
- 45° elevated drivers
- Front-facing volume control
- Higher star rating than the Amazon Basics (4.6 vs 4.5)
Worth knowing
- Costs £3.91 more than the Amazon Basics on these listings
- No power rating stated in the details we reviewed
- Listing notes international products are sold from abroad and may differ
Best for
- Buyers who want a more distinctive design
- Anyone who wants the higher-rated pair
- Those who want elevated drivers
Not ideal for
- Budget-conscious buyers
- Anyone who wants a stated wattage
