13 Best Bookshelf Speakers in 2023 [Tested & Compared]
Huge speakers may provide the most powerful sound, but not everyone has the space, money, or inclination to purchase a set of floor standers. Fortunately, bookshelf speakers may provide you with a beautiful listening experience.
As the name conveys, they are small enough to fit on a bookshelf, on stands, a desk, or a table. It’s important to note that bookshelves are not the ideal location for speakers.
Some speakers need a bit more space to function correctly, so consult the manufacturer’s specifications before buying – these speakers can benefit from a set of dedicated speaker stands.
Of course, you should consider size when researching the available models—some are significantly smaller than others—but see what fits your space.
Here are some of my favorite bookshelf speakers. If you want something more significant? Then, check out my best floorstanding speakers.
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How I Selected
Here are the criteria I considered on deciding which models to test:
Size and styling
These speakers are designed for a typical living room or den. I exclusively looked at large enough speakers to fit on a large, sturdy shelf, credenza, or table but also small enough to produce enough bass without a subwoofer. See our computer speaker guide for computer, gaming, or audio production applications to find the best speakers.
In case you want to improve the sound from these speakers, position them on stands (such as the Sanus BF24B or Monoprice 39494) rather than on a shelf; a shelf might alter the sound as a result of reflections, and a shelf near the wall (which is likely to make it sound boomy) is likely to make the speaker sound bad, and the shelf and everything else on it may rattle.
Cost
I set a price limit of $600 for both passive and active speakers. Serious audiophiles already know what they want in terms of speakers, so models above that price are not for them.
Configuration
All the speakers I examined were two-way designs, with a tweeter (for high frequencies) or a woofer (for low frequencies) positioned on top of the other. In most cases, I could not afford models with additional mid-range drivers or extra woofers. Because I felt that I could easily outperform single-driver models, I didn’t consider them.
Wireless connectivity
I only considered Bluetooth-enabled powered speakers for this review. I didn’t require support for more advanced Bluetooth codecs such as aptX or aptX HD for those that included it.
Extra features
I searched for models that offer extra features such as a phono input, digital audio inputs, and remote control in addition to the standard analog audio input.
Comparison of Best Bookshelf Speakers
IMAGE | MODEL | FEATURES | COST | RATING |
 | Bowers & Wilkins 606 S2 | 88dB sensitivity, 8Ω impedance, 30W-120W per channel amplifier wattage | CHECK PRICE | 4.8 / 5 |
 | Elac Debut 2.0 B6.2 | 87dB sensitivity, 6Ω impedance, 20W-120W per channel amplifier wattage | CHECK PRICE | 4.7 / 5 |
 | Elac Uni-Fi 2.0 | 6Ω impedance, 85dB sensitivity, 40W-140W Per Channel amplifier wattage | CHECK PRICE | 4.6 / 5 |
 | Dayton Audio B652-AIR | 87dB sensitivity, 6Ω impedance, 40W-75W per channel amplifier wattage | CHECK PRICE | 4.5 / 5 |
 | Fluance AI61 | 75 watts speaker output power (maximum), Bookshelf, Woofer, Tweeter, RCA, Bluetooth, USB connectivity | CHECK PRICE | 3.9 / 5 |
 | Edifier R1280T | 85dB sensitivity, 4” Woofer, 0.5” Tweeter driver sizes, 42 watts speaker output power (maximum) | CHECK PRICE | 4.7 / 5 |
 | Wharfedale Diamond 12.1 | 8Ω impedance, 88dB sensitivity, 5″ Full Range, 1″ Tweeter driver sizes | CHECK PRICE | 5 / 5 |
 | Kanto TUK | 5″ Full Range, 1″ Tweeter driver sizes, 130 watts output power (maximum), RCA, Bluetooth, USB connectivity | CHECK PRICE | 4.5 / 5 |
 | KEF LS50 Meta | 100 watts output power (maximum), Frequency range (-6dB) – 47 Hz – 45 kHz | CHECK PRICE | / 5 |
 | Aperion Audio Novus | 4Ω impedance, 85dB sensitivity, 20-100W per channel amplifier wattage | CHECK PRICE | 4.8 / 5 |
 | Fluance XL8S | 8Ω impedance, 85dB sensitivity, 40W-80W per channel amplifier wattage | CHECK PRICE | 4.8 / 5 |
 | Klipsch The Fives | 4.5″ Full Range, 1″ Tweeter, HDMI connectivity | CHECK PRICE | 4.6 / 5 |
 | Triangle Borea BR03 | 100 watts output power (maximum), Perfect for dedicated listeners | CHECK PRICE | 4.7 / 5 |
Let us explore each of the listed Bookshelf speakers.
Best Bookshelf Speakers for Full Entertainment
Here’s a list of bookshelf speakers for your entertainment:
Bowers & Wilkins 606 S2
Top high-end bookshelf speakers
SPECIFICATIONS
- 88dB sensitivity
- 8Ω impedance
- 30W-120W per channel amplifier wattage
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
I knew I had to test speakers from Bowers & Wilkins for this list, and I auditioned several, focusing on their new Anniversary range. I believe that the 606 S2 Anniversary Edition speakers are the ones you should look at if you want to hear each note of your music.
They produce incredible sound quality and a fantastic soundstage that makes you feel like you’re surrounded by music. In terms of sound quality, these are probably the best speakers in my top 13.
The Bowers & Wilkins 606 S2s are high-quality speakers and require high-end treatment. In addition to being unforgiving of poor sources, they have a minimal sweet spot and are finicky about where they are placed, meaning you will need an excellent amp and DAC. Toeing them in a bit helps, but it is still tricky.
Elac Debut 2.0 B6.2
One of the best bookshelf speakers
SPECIFICATIONS
- 87dB sensitivity
- 6Ω impedance
- 20W-120W per channel amplifier wattage
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
Elac Debut 2.0 B6.2s are nearly flawless in my view. The sound quality was astounding, far beyond what one would expect from a speaker at that price point. Whether you’re listening to vinyl or streaming, it’s incredibly smooth and natural.
In addition to their excellent sound, they are also forgiving. The Q Acoustics 3020i, also priced below, is slightly inferior sonically. This speaker is more than enough for bass enthusiasts.
You won’t have to worry about getting great sound no matter where you place the B6.2s, as they don’t have any fussy preferences. You can still enjoy your favorite albums or simple Spotify streams.
The only flaw we could locate with the Debut 2.0 B6.2s is that they look pretty dull and boxy and have only a single color option. Even though they’re not the most recent speakers, Elac has newer designs (the more costly Uni-Fi 2.0, listed below).
Elac Uni-Fi 2.0
Most balanced, highest performing speaker
SPECIFICATIONS
- 6Ω impedance
- 85dB sensitivity
- 40W-140W Per Channel amplifier wattage
- 5.25″ Woofer, 4” Midrange, 1″ Tweeter driver sizes
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
Elac speakers (among the finest on the market right now) are among the most popular. If you want something more sophisticated than the Debut 2.0 B6.2s, consider the new Uni-Fi 2.0s. At $600, they may be a little too costly for most listeners, but they’re still decent speakers.
We were impressed by how well the speakers performed in a large home theater testing room or a small office. Furthermore, we were particularly impressed with how easily these speakers transitioned between hi-fi and home theater systems; they sounded just as good with a stereo amplifier as with an AV receiver. These speakers were redesigned entirely by Andrew Jones, and it shows.
The Elac Uni-Fi 2.0s are battling for supremacy in their price category. While they are excellent, they face competition from Aperion Audio Novus, the Q Acoustics 3020i loudspeakers, and several other speakers. We believe that the Debut 2.0 B6.2s, released before these speakers, are now better choices. They are the same company.
Dayton Audio B652-AIR
Budget-friendly bookshelf speakers
SPECIFICATIONS
- 87dB sensitivity
- 6Ω impedance
- 40W-75W per channel amplifier wattage
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
We believe you can get great sound and build quality without spending a fortune on a budget speaker. The Dayton Audio B652-AIR demonstrates this beautifully. Despite the low price, they sound great. We have never seen an Air-Motion Transformer Tweeter (the little grille at the top) in a speaker as cheap as this one.
These speakers provide some of the finest sound quality in this price range. The open nature of this type of tweeter is evident here. The Fluance XL8S, one of the speakers we reviewed, was sound quality-wise inferior to these speakers.
The Dayton Audio B652-AIR has two significant drawbacks. The bass is somewhat underwhelming; bass enthusiasts should look at the Fluance R1280T, which performs better, or the Edifier R1280T, listed below, which is slightly more expensive. In addition, the binding posts on the speaker’s rear do not accept banana plugs, meaning you must use bare speaker wire.
Despite the annoyance, this set of speakers is worth considering if you’re on a budget and want excellent sound. Many people will be surprised by the B652-AIRs, as they’re one of the few sub-$200 speakers suitable for novices and audiophiles alike.
Fluance AI61
Unparalleled audio performance
SPECIFICATIONS
- 75 watts speaker output power (maximum)
- Bookshelf, Woofer, Tweeter
- RCA, Bluetooth, USB connectivity
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
I believe that the Fluance AI61 wireless speaker is the best one yet. These speakers have been in production for many years, and they beat Audioengine and Kanto, which are similarly priced but have better sound quality.
My team uses phrases like ‘full,’ ‘engaging,’ and ‘rich’ to describe these speakers, which are not as good as some of the big ones in terms of audio quality but are still excellent options if you want wireless speakers.
I enjoy having lag-free listening with the Fluance AI61, thanks to its RCA, optical, USB, and Bluetooth 5.0 inputs. While I do not like the annoying interface and one colored light on the front, it was incredibly frustrating to use the EQ function.
I also believe that more effective active speakers, such as the Audioengine HD4, deliver a broader and more convincing soundstage for the same price. Despite this, the AI61s provide a lot for $300.
Edifier R1280T
Worth the money
SPECIFICATIONS
- 85dB sensitivity
- 4” Woofer, 0.5” Tweeter driver sizes
- 42 watts speaker output power (maximum)
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
I believe the Edifier R1280T is one of their best speakers and headphones, producing excellent and affordable products. Combining affordability with decent sound quality, the R1280T is ideal for smaller spaces.
These R1280T speakers have individual amplifiers built in, so you can quickly hook them up to your audio source using a standard RCA cable without a separate amplifier, similar to the Fluance AI61s. However, these are not wireless, and the AI61s deliver better quality audio.
The sound quality is decent. You get a lot, including a remote and EQ knobs for adjusting the sound. It’s not loud, but the speakers put out 21 watts per channel of excellent definition and detail.
Wharfedale Diamond 12.1
Premium sound experience
SPECIFICATIONS
- 8Ω impedance
- 88dB sensitivity
- 5″ Full Range, 1″ Tweeter driver sizes
- 20-100W Per Channel amplifier wattage
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
Wharfedale has been producing speakers for over 80 years. The Diamond 12.1s is their newest creation, a revamped version of the beloved Diamond line. These sophisticated, stylish speakers have outstanding sound quality, much better than we’d expect for such a low cost.
With regards to sound quality, these speakers are surprisingly forgiving, so you don’t need to spend a lot on an amplifier to get the most out of them. They offer considerable detail in the highs, are bright and lively, and perform exceptionally well when playing dynamic range music, like movie soundtracks.
There’s no denying that the Diamond 12.1s is a wonderful speaker set, but they don’t push past the competition as much as I’d like. For example, when compared with speakers from Q Acoustics, Elac, and Fluance, they don’t have that special something that would elevate them.
You might theoretically get a similar result from the Q Acoustics 3020i speakers for less money. Because of this, the Diamond 12.1s are worth considering, but they have a long way to go before becoming the top choice.
Kanto TUK
Best speaker at this price point
SPECIFICATIONS
- 5″ Full Range, 1″ Tweeter driver sizes
- 130 watts output power (maximum)
- RCA, Bluetooth, USB connectivity
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
The sound quality of the AMT speakers was so rich and sumptuous that I was amazed, and for once, the buzz was justified. Although AMT tweeters are becoming more common—they appear in my favorite budget pick, the Dayton Audio B652-AIRs, which cost less than $100—they still impress.
The Fluance AI61 Bluetooth speaker is better than the Kanto TUKs in some respects, namely, Bluetooth version (Fluance AI61 Bluetooth version is Bluetooth 5.0, while Kanto TUKs use Bluetooth 4.0) and getting an accurate volume.
However, the wide range of features, including a phono input for a turntable, makes up for it. The beautiful design and excellent sound quality make these an even bigger winner.
KEF LS50 Meta
One of the best speakers
SPECIFICATIONS
- 100 watts output power (maximum)
- Frequency range (-6dB) – 47 Hz – 45 kHz
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
With no contention, the KEF LS50 Meta speakers are the finest-sounding active bookshelf speakers we have ever heard. The original LS50s were great, but the new version takes things further by including Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT), a new technology that significantly minimizes distortion and resonance.
KEF has also made significant improvements in sound quality in addition to functionality. Using two apps was once necessary to control the KEFs; now, only one is required. You will be listening to music in no time using any source with Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Roon, and Apple AirPlay 2.
The KEF LS50 Metas are still extremely expensive, even though they are selling at the same price as the previous generation. That becomes an even bigger issue considering that less costly speakers outperform them.
The LS50 Metas were no match for the LS50 Wireless regarding high-end wireless functionality. However, they smoked the LS50s on the low end. Although we like the LS50s, they are not for everyone.
Aperion Audio Novus
One of the finest bookshelf speakers
SPECIFICATIONS
- 4Ω impedance
- 85dB sensitivity
- 20-100W per channel amplifier wattage
- 5.25″ Full Range, 1″ Tweeter driver sizes
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
REASONS TO BUY
+ Crisp, clean sound
+ Lightweight magnetic grilles
REASONS TO AVOID
– Design is a step back from previous models
Aperion Audio has been making impressive devices for years. The Novus speakers are their newest creation: a set of cost-effective bookshelf speakers that rivals other comparable offerings.
Aperion’s speakers are particularly well-suited for home theatre setups, thanks to their crisp and powerful audio quality, excellent treble detail, and ease of use. Stand-alones and surround sound packages are both available.
In my opinion, the Novus are worthy of consideration alongside the other models listed since they offer excellent performance at an affordable price.
Fluance XL8S
Incredible sound quality for the price
SPECIFICATIONS
- 8Ω impedance
- 85dB sensitivity
- 40W-80W per channel amplifier wattage
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
The Fluance XL8S is an excellent option if you have a small house. These speakers forget about positioning and produce large amounts of sound in small rooms.
As these speakers can be placed on a bookshelf or wedged into a corner as quickly as they can be put on a dedicated speaker stand, they will be a good choice if you are short on space. The exciting level of detail in the highs and the surprising amount of bass were two of our favorite surprises.
The Fluance XL8S is not as excellent as numerous other budget speakers, including the less expensive Dayton Audio B652-AIRs, regarding functionality. These speakers have multiple flaws, including a boxy, bright, and narrow sound signature that can be draining for extended periods. We also dislike appearance.
We are unsure what material is used for the front of the speakers, but we assume it’s reflective and gruesome, appearing like crap. Despite the advantages, there are better choices.
Klipsch The Fives
One of the top bookshelf speakers
SPECIFICATIONS
- 4.5″ Full Range, 1″ Tweeter
- HDMI connectivity
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
Klipsch says that the Fives are the most versatile speakers on the planet. We aren’t sure if that’s accurate, but the new Fives active bookshelf speakers are chock-full of technology. The best feature is the HDMI ARC input. These speakers can be connected directly to your TV, creating an excellent home theatre and hi-fi system.
There are very few bookshelf speakers with this feature; the KEF LS50 Metas, even though they are super expensive, don’t have it.
The Fives are therefore unique, and if you want a simple two-speaker system for all of your house audio and entertainment requirements, you should investigate them. Furthermore, they look and feel terrific to operate.
The Fives’ sound quality is decent but has some issues. It’s uncontrolled and woolly, especially the bass. We also disliked the midrange frequencies. The sound quality was lacking, and this was a big problem.
We didn’t feel we were getting all the information and clarity we wanted. Aside from the HDMI port, we can’t recommend The Fives over the Kanto TUK, a comparable active speaker, since the poor sound quality.
Triangle Borea BR03
A step up in sound quality
SPECIFICATIONS
- 100 watts output power (maximum)
- Perfect for dedicated listeners
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
In my experience, the Borea BR03 is one of the finest bookshelf speaker sets, providing exceptional clarity, spaciousness, and plenty of basses.
Serious music enthusiasts who want to immerse and enthrall through high-quality sound can buy the Triangle Borea BR03 pair for a fraction of the cost of audiophile-grade tower speakers and still have plenty of space on the floor. The looks are tasteful (four color schemes are available), and the functionality is excellent.
The BR03 from Borea eliminates the unpleasant sonic peculiarities—such as booming, thin, or grating sound—common in cheap speakers, resulting in a more satisfying, fuller sound than most bookshelf speakers do.
Who should get bookshelf speakers?
Bookshelf speakers are created to sit on a shelf or be mounted on a stand and are ideal for audiophiles who want better performance. They aren’t as large as tower speakers and don’t put out as much bass.
However, even though they don’t consume as much visual or physical space or put out as much bass as tower speakers, they will usually provide a satisfyingly complete sound for most listeners and music styles. You can often add a subwoofer if you want more bass.
A well-built passive bookshelf speaker system is a long-term investment in audio that you won’t outgrow. You may use a Bluetooth-compatible stereo receiver (such as the Sony STR-DH190) or a streaming amplifier (such as the Sonos Amp) in conjunction with passive bookshelf speakers to play the latest music.
If you wish to upgrade your system, you may still utilize refurbished 50-year-old speakers with modern amplifiers and signals. Audio enthusiasts commonly use old speakers with new amplifiers and sources.
Bookshelf speakers can deliver better audio for movie and TV watching than most TV speakers, and many of our recommendations include a center speaker for dialogue reproduction.
Bookshelf Speaker Buying Advice
Speaker Connections Explained
Two types of posts on the back of the speakers allow you to connect them to an amplifier. You should look for red and black rotary switches (or little squares that you can insert wires into) that you can screw up and down. They are usually identified as binding posts, but occasionally they will be labeled as plus/minus.
Speaker wire is relatively inexpensive. The 16-gauge is the most common choice for bookshelf speakers with an impedance of 8 ohms (most have this impedance). If you are positioning devices over 50 feet away, a 14- or 12-gauge wire may be a better option, which is also suited to speakers with an impedance of 4 or 6 ohms.
You should cut a length of copper wire, then strip the insulation off either end to create a tight coil.
The binding posts on either end should be screwed with red to red and black to black to separate the speakers, although this can be dangerous if you don’t unplug the amplifier first. The bookshelf speaker model called passive requires an amplifier to power it. If you don’t unplug the amplifier, things might not operate correctly or blow up at worst.
Speaker Placement Explained
It’s common for bookshelf models to be designed for a specific purpose, such as sitting at your computer or lounging on the sofa. While some models are better, manufacturers try to optimize this sweet spot.
Your listening experience might be improved if you level your speakers, so the tweeters are at the same height as your ears. To find the best listening spots, you should form a triangle with your speakers, and they should be equally distant from your left and right ears.
Some lower-end models may have problems with frequency ‘gaps’ or, even worse, over-amplified frequencies. The vast majority of receivers have EQ processors or self-calibrating frequency modes.
They might be genuinely beneficial and might ‘cure’ such minor issues. In surround setups, bookshelf speakers are typically positioned traditionally — front center, left and right, rear left and right, and so on, based on the size of the format.
Summary
A bookshelf speaker is designed to increase sound in small to medium-sized spaces. They are specifically designed to rest on a shelf, table, or other elevated surfaces, not the floor.
Bookshelf Speakers instantly enhance any sound system. They sound phenomenal. Furthermore, they are known for sounding great.
I sincerely hope you find this list of bookshelf speakers helpful.
In conclusion, if you choose one of the 13 bookshelf speakers listed above, you will make a good decision since they are prevalent.
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Mark Dalio
Mark is a tech-obsessed serial entrepreneur who also enjoys reading and writing. He has a strong urge to keep learning and talking about technology, which led him to become an author. Mark has co-founded two successful startups, one of which was acquired in 2018.
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