My Quest for the Perfect Laptop Sound

Let's be honest, I'm a bit of a sound snob. Okay, maybe more than a bit. I need crisp, clear audio for everything – from editing videos (my side hustle!) to jamming out to my favorite playlists while working. So when my old laptop's speakers finally gave up the ghost – a sputtering, crackly death – I knew I needed an upgrade, and not just any upgrade. I needed a laptop with amazing speakers.

That's when my quest began. I scoured reviews, compared specs, and even went to a few stores to test them out in person (because nothing beats hearing the difference yourself, right?). After weeks of research, here are my top five picks for laptops with speakers that will blow you away.

5. ASUS Zenbook 14X OLED (2022): The Budget-Friendly Audiophile

The ASUS Zenbook 14X OLED is probably going to surprise you. Not only is it stylish and sleek, but its audio performance is truly remarkable for its price point. It's not the absolute loudest, but the sound is rich and well-balanced. I found myself really enjoying listening to podcasts and even a bit of music editing on it. It's a perfect balance of portability, performance, and audio quality. I wouldn’t call it my favorite but still worth considering, especially if you're on a budget! I mean, who doesn't love a good deal?

• Pros: Excellent sound quality for the price, portable and lightweight.
• Cons: Not the loudest option out there.

4. LG Gram 16: A Surprisingly Powerful Punch

Now, I'll admit, I wasn't expecting much from the LG Gram 16. I mean, it's lightweight, right? I was assuming it'd be all about portability – but I was so wrong. These speakers pack a serious punch! They’re surprisingly loud and clear, making it fantastic for movies and video editing. The bass is decent, too. Great for someone who also travels a lot and needs portability.

3. MacBook Pro 16-inch (2021): The Apple of My Eye (For Audio)

Okay, I know what some of you are thinking: 'Another Apple product, really?' Yes! But let's be honest, Apple's audio game is usually pretty strong. And the MacBook Pro 16-inch is no exception. The sound is exceptional – clear, crisp, and loud enough to fill a small room. If sound is a priority, this model hits the nail on the head. But, as always with Apple, be prepared for the price tag. It's an investment for sure!

• Pros: Excellent sound quality, powerful speakers
• Cons: Pricey; what else is new?

2. HP Envy x360 15: The Versatile Performer

I absolutely love a good 2-in-1 laptop and the HP Envy x360 15 didn't disappoint. It seamlessly switches between laptop and tablet mode. But beyond its versatility, the speakers are what surprised me. They're impressively loud, and the audio quality is really good for a 2-in-1 device. Perfect for watching movies on the couch or listening to music while lounging in bed.

• Pros: Great sound, versatile 2-in-1 design
• Cons: Battery life could be better.

1. Dell XPS 17: The Champion of Sound

And the winner is... the Dell XPS 17! This laptop boasts some of the best speakers I’ve ever heard on a laptop. They’re incredibly loud and clear, with a good balance of bass, mids, and highs. Seriously, the audio quality is outstanding. It's easily my favorite for audio and overall computing experience. This might be a bit heavier than some other options, but for those who value exceptional sound, this is the one to get!

• Pros: Absolutely amazing sound quality, powerful performance
• Cons: Can be quite heavy and bulky

Choosing Your Perfect Sound

So, there you have it! My top five laptops with excellent speakers. Remember, the 'best' laptop for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. Consider what you’ll mainly use your laptop for—video editing, gaming, or casual listening—and choose accordingly. One thing’s for sure, though: don't underestimate the importance of good sound! Happy listening!