Bose Companion 20
Score: 80/100
SteelSeries Arena 7
Score: 87/100Rankings
The SteelSeries Arena 7 is a 2.1 gaming speaker system delivering 150 W RMS power and vibrant RGB lighting. Its software limitations and modest maximum volume may hinder large-room use. Ideal for desktop gamers seeking powerful, customizable audio in a compact setup.
The Bose Companion 20 is a compact 2.0 desktop speaker system praised for its rich sound and sleek design. Its drawbacks include a premium price, short cables, and lack of a subwoofer. Ideal for users who prioritize soundstage and aesthetics over deep bass.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
70 mm | 165 mmbest | |
2 | 3best | |
— | 150 Wbest | |
— | 1 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 1.13 kgbest | 10.86 kg |
7best | 6 |
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| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(2) | ||
Driver Size (mm) | 70 mm | 165 mm |
Channels | 2 | 3 |
Controls(1) | ||
Volume Control Type | control_pod | integrated |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (kg) | 1.13 kg | 10.86 kg |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 21.9x8.9x11.9 cm | 39.2×33.2×48.0 cm cm |
Features(1) | ||
Number of Included Accessories | 7 | 6 |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Reviewers consistently commend the Companion 20 for delivering strong, natural bass and a wide, clear soundstage through its TrueSpace processing and ported design, calling it the best-sounding desktop speaker system available. However, they criticize Bose for withholding key specifications, the absence of a subwoofer, and a price that seems high for the limited disclosed performance data.
Everyday users appreciate the clear, bass-rich audio and the convenience of the control pod, noting the speakers fit well on small desks and are easy to set up. Recurring frustrations center on short cable lengths, a perception of high cost, and occasional distortion when the volume is maxed out without adjusting the source.
Professional reviewers praise the Arena 7 for its solid 16-lb build, impressive audio from the compact satellite speakers, and a subwoofer that perfectly complements the mains with adjustable bass. They highlight the easy setup, extensive connectivity, and the deep customization offered by RGB lighting and Sonar software, while noting the software's limited platform support and the system's modest peak volume for larger spaces.
Everyday users rave about the punchy bass, clear sound and sleek desktop footprint, appreciating the straightforward Bluetooth and aux pairing and the ability to customize RGB and EQ. Common complaints focus on the Sonar software's limitations and the fact that the maximum volume isn't loud enough for very large rooms, with a few noting the subwoofer's size as a drawback on cramped desks.
“Impressive bass and clear sound for music, videos, and gaming on PCs”
“Short cables restrict where I can place the speakers”
“these little desktop speakers pack a punch... sub packs a punch”
