DriversRecommendedOutdated drivers can make a good PC feel brokenScan driver issues before chasing fixes manually.Scan NowHalloween DealsAmazon USHalloween week deals: useful picks before month-endAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsPC HealthRecommendedCrashes, freezes, slowdowns? Check your PC nowSpot repairable issues before they interrupt work.Check PC×
FREEDOM251

Freedom251 › Blog › audio

How to Connect Speakers Directly to a Monitor

By Freedom251 Team · · 4 min read

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

You can connect speakers directly to a monitor if it has an audio output and the speakers have a compatible input. The usual route is a monitor headphone or audio-out jack to powered speakers or an active soundbar using a 3.5 mm stereo cable. If the monitor has no audio output, connect the speakers to your computer instead.

Check the ports before choosing a connection

Look at the labels beside the monitor’s ports and confirm them in the manual for its exact model. “Audio Out,” “Line Out,” or a headphone symbol indicates an output. “Audio In” or “Line In” indicates an input; it cannot send sound to external speakers. A monitor’s built-in speakers, audio input, and audio output are separate features, and a model may have any combination—or none.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Also check the speakers’ manual. The 3.5 mm setup below requires powered speakers or an active soundbar with a compatible analog input. The cable carries audio signal but does not provide power or amplify passive speakers.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Choose the connection that matches your equipment

Monitor audio output to powered speakers

  1. Confirm the monitor has a headphone, “Audio Out,” or “Line Out” port and the speakers accept a compatible input.
  2. Connect the monitor’s output to the speakers with a suitable stereo cable, commonly a 3.5 mm cable.
  3. If the computer sends sound over HDMI or DisplayPort, select the monitor as the computer’s playback device.
  4. Adjust volume and check mute on the computer, monitor menu if available, and speakers.

Samsung describes this direct connection for supported monitors; its instructions are model-dependent: Samsung monitor audio guidance.

#1 Best Overall
Computer Speakers for Desktop PC Monitor, USB Plug-in, Wired, Computer Soundbar for PC, Laptop Speakers with Adaptive-Channel-Switching, Loud Sound, Deep Bass, USB C Adapter, Easy to Clip on Monitor
  • [COMPATIBLE WITH USB DEVICES] - Our USB Speakers are compatible with Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, and Linux, making them ideal for PC, laptop, and desktop computer. Incompatible Devices: Monitors TVs and Projector.
  • [COMPATIBLE WITH USB-C DEVICES] - Thanks to the built-in USB-C to USB Adapter, our USB-C speakers are now compatible with devices that only have USB-C interface, such as the latest MacBook, Mac mini, iMac, iPad, Android phones, and tablets.
  • [INCREDIBLE LOUD SOUND WITH RICH BASS] - Our small computer speaker is equipped with dual ultra-magnetic drivers and dual passive radiators, providing high-quality stereo sound with powerful volume and deep bass for an incredible audio experience.
  • [ADAPTIVE-CHANNEL-SWITCHING WITH G-SENSOR] - Ensures the left and right sound channels remain correctly positioned whether the speaker is clamped to the top or bottom of your monitor.
  • [CONVENIENT TOUCH CONTROL] - Three intuitive touch buttons on the front allow for easy muting and volume adjustment.

Computer audio output directly to speakers

If the monitor has no usable audio output, connect the speakers to the computer’s audio output instead—for example, a desktop’s analog audio jack or a laptop’s headphone output. The speaker input must match the computer output, and the speakers still need their own power if they are active speakers.

Computer audio input to the monitor

Some monitors have an audio input that feeds their built-in speakers. On applicable models, this can use a 3.5 mm cable from the computer’s audio output to the monitor’s audio input. This is not a direct connection from the monitor to external speakers: the direction is computer-to-monitor. BenQ documents this arrangement for particular models: BenQ monitor audio guidance.

Rank #2
LENRUE G11 Computer Speakers for Desktop, Touch Lights PC Speakers with Surge Clear Sound, USB C/USB Powered, AUX Audio for Computer Desktop PC Laptop Desk
  • Surge Stereo Sound - 4 large amplifier IC horns! Computer speakers achieved Distortion Free and Noiseless in stunning sound. Immersive cinema effect for movies, videos, games and music.
  • Touch Angular Game Lights - Unique Dynamic Angular Game Atmosphere design! Desktop speaker with latest One Touch to turn on/off lights, avoid the traditional cumbersome button design.
  • All In One Compact - Fits any desktop computer! Perfectly under the monitor without taking up any extra desktop space. Cables are glued together to avoid desktop clutter.
  • Plug And Play - No need for any driver! Must Plug in the USB powered cable and 3.5mm audio cable to enjoy now! Top volume knob for easier volume adjustment.
  • Type C Adapter Included & Compatibility - USB speakers match computers, desktops, PCs, laptops. Suitable for windows(Vista/7/8/10), Mac OS, Chrome OS, etc.

Digital audio over HDMI, DisplayPort, or supported USB-C

HDMI and DisplayPort can carry audio as well as video on supported devices. Some USB-C monitor setups also carry audio. When using one of these connections, select the monitor as the computer’s playback device; sound can then play through the monitor’s built-in speakers or leave through a supported audio output. Whether the monitor accepts or passes audio depends on its model and connection. BenQ’s troubleshooting guidance covers supported monitor setups: BenQ no-audio troubleshooting.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Troubleshoot when there is no sound

  1. Verify the feature. Check the exact monitor model to establish whether it has built-in speakers, an audio output for external speakers, or an audio input for its own speakers.
  2. Check port direction. Make sure the cable runs from an output to an input. An audio input cannot substitute for an output.
  3. Choose the right playback device. For audio traveling over HDMI, DisplayPort, or supported USB-C, choose the monitor in the computer’s sound-output settings. Check volume and mute on the computer and monitor.
  4. Check the monitor’s audio settings. For pass-through, verify the monitor is receiving audio from the computer and review its audio settings if available.
  5. Reconnect the digital cable. If the monitor does not appear among the available output devices, BenQ advises unplugging and reconnecting the cable, then checking the output-device list again.
  6. Use the computer output if needed. If the monitor lacks a usable audio output, connect the speakers to the computer.

Which setup should you use?

Route What the monitor needs What the speakers need Best fit
Monitor audio output to speakers A supported headphone, audio-out, or line-out port A compatible input; active speakers or an active soundbar for the common analog setup You want the monitor to send audio to external speakers
Computer audio output to speakers No audio port required An input compatible with the computer’s output The monitor has no usable audio output
Computer audio output to monitor audio input An audio input and, for playback, supported built-in speakers No external speakers required for monitor playback You want sound from the monitor’s own speakers
Digital audio to monitor, then monitor playback or pass-through Audio support for the chosen HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C connection, plus speakers or an audio output as needed For external playback, a compatible input and required power You want audio and video to travel together to a supported monitor

There is no universal cable or setting that works for every monitor. Confirm the exact monitor ports, speaker inputs, and any model-specific audio support before buying a cable or changing settings.

Rank #3
OHAYO 60W Computer Speakers, Bluetooth 5.3, Stereo 2.0, 1 Pair, Black | MDF Wooden Enclosure, Carbon Fiber Drivers, AC Powered, 3.5mm Aux RCA USB Inputs, for Music, Gaming, Desktop PC, TV
  • 【SMALL HIFI BOOKSHELF SPEAKERS】With its modern aesthetic and compact design, this stylish black speaker complements contemporary home or office décor. The space-saving design fits seamlessly into any environment, maximizing desktop space. Ideal for desktop setups or small room audio systems like home offices or gaming stations.
  • 【Experience powerful sound】Unleash powerful 30Wx2 distortion-free sound. Featuring a 0.75-inch carbon fiber silk dome tweeter and a 3-inch carbon fiber full-range driver, this speaker delivers crystal-clear highs and rich mid-bass. The rear bass port amplifies low-end depth, while the integrated independent sound card ensures smooth, detailed audio playback for the ultimate listening experience.
  • 【Durable Performance】Built with a premium MDF wooden enclosure, this computer speakers with subwoofer effectively reduces box resonance for clearer, stream studio-quality,more precise sound. The easy-to-reach volume control knob on the front panel allows for quick adjustments during gaming or music sessions. Crafted from high-quality materials, it’s designed for long-lasting durability, providing consistent, stable performance even during intense gaming use.
  • 【Multiple Input Options】These speakers are designed to offer versatile connectivity, featuring Bluetooth 5.3 along with RCA, AUX, and USB inputs. This variety ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices, giving you the flexibility to connect seamlessly to your preferred audio source.
  • 【Versatile Use】The computer speakers for desktop pc Ideal for gaming, music streaming, and enhancing your computer audio experience, these speakers are compatible with smartphones, turntables, desktop or laptop computers, TVs, audio mixers, streaming devices , gaming pc, media players , subwoofers, audio receivers, and more. No matter your setup, these speakers meet all your audio needs with ease.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Manufacturer guidance and model limits

Port availability, built-in speakers, volume controls, and menu options vary between monitor models, including models from the same brand. Samsung’s guidance is on its Poland support site and BenQ’s cited guidance is for applicable models; consult the manuals for the actual monitor and speakers in your setup. BenQ US support states for applicable models that HDMI “carries video and audio,” not that every monitor or source supports audio over every connection.

Rank #4
LENRUE Computer Speakers,PC Speakers for Desktop,Wired USB-Powered Sound-bar for Computer with 10W Stereo Sound and Colorful Light,Plug-n-Play (A39PRO /Black)
  • Wide Compatibility for Computers:LENRUE A39PRO Computer speakers can work with any PCs ,such as desktop computer,laptops, tablets, that has a standard 3.5mm headphone jack.USB line is for Power, 3.5 AUX Line is for audio.
  • Stereo and Noiseless:The PC speaker uses upgraded 2x5W technology to deliver the clear and crystal sound .The soundbar speaker can enhance your listening experience when you enjoying indoor movies, videos, music and games.
  • Volume controls at Ease: Volume knob on the top of the PC Speaker,not in the line as other speakers, you can control the speaker volume for instant adjustments at ease.
  • Colorful Breathlight Design:Colorful light is perfect for your homes, offices and workspaces to enhanced happy atmosphere.You can turn on/off the light by Pushing block switch at the back .
  • Plug and Play:NO Drivers Needed and NO Sound Delay,the computer speaker comes with 3.5mm plug which are compatible with desktops, computers, PCs, laptops, tablets, phones, MP3 and so on,47"(1.2m) enough long cable to your devices.NOTE: If the sound is not loud, please make sure the volume setting on your Monitor and media player are not at the low volume.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

audiocomputer monitorsDisplayPortHDMIspeakers

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.