10 Best External Sound Cards of 2020
Why bother with an external sound card audio/adapter when your devices have them built-in? The answer is enhanced quality, and to enjoy a more immersive audio experience. Also, an external card has next to no noticeable interference, unlike the built-in options. Moreover, it’s portable and easily plugs into your other devices. That includes laptops, netbooks, PCs, and game consoles, etc.
Moreover, many of the USB sound cards don’t need buggy drivers to function. Internal sound cards have come a long way in recent years, but they’re still not as versatile as the external options.
| Budget |
|---|
 |
| TechRise USB External Stereo Sound Card |
| 4.6/5.0 |
| Weight: 1.6 oz. |
| Dimensions: 7 x 1 x 0.3” |
| Stereo sound effect, TRS mic jack, mute button, versatile, extension cord. |
| Check Amazon |
| Best Value |
|---|
 |
| PHOINIKAS Sound Card |
| 4.5/5.0 |
| Weight: 4.8 oz. |
| Dimensions: 4.3 x 1.2 x 4.7” |
| Surround sound, volume control, mic/speaker mute, 6 ports, long cable. |
| Check Amazon |
| Top Pick |
|---|
 |
| Creative Sound Blaster Omni |
| 4.7/5.0 |
| Weight: 0.16 oz. |
| Dimensions: 9.1 x 3 x 6.1” |
| Easy to use, clear audio, excellent build, intuitive CP, headphone amp, 2 mics. |
| Check Amazon |
How to Choose the Ideal External Sound Card
Think carefully about what you need the sound card for. Enhanced audio is obvious, but there are other benefits too. USB cards give you extra audio inputs and outputs. Even the cheaper ones can offer 2 inputs, 2 outputs, and a multipurpose port. A costlier product has even more options. It may have 8 audio Inputs/Outputs, a few USB hub outputs, Midi IN/OUT sockets, and much more.
So, think about the connections and other features that may benefit you as well as the audio quality. Are you a gamer, an audiophile, or a musician? The options are vast, and there’s something for everyone. Prices start at under 20 dollars and go up to several hundred. Read real user feedback for a product where there is any. That will give you a realistic feel for the card and its practical uses.
Multiple Benefits of a USB External Sound Card
The numerous benefits of USB soundcards give them an edge over built-in ones.
- Plug-n-play simplicity
- Instant replacement for built-in cards that stop working or underperform
- Most are small, lightweight, and easy to carry around
- Adds surround sound to regular laptops
Practical Uses for an External Sound Card
Here are 3 of the more practical uses for a USB soundcard:
- Connects up to 7.1 (8-channels) surround audio system
- Enhances a home theater sound system
- Multiple ports make them ideal recording and playback devices
About My ‘External Sound Card’ Guide
My guide focuses on the smaller USB type external sound cards for practical everyday applications. That includes enhanced audio, surround sound for computers, home theatre systems, and gaming. There are 10 easy-to-read product reviews below for versatile USB sound cards. The shortlist here is the result of extensive research, personal experience, and feedback from real users.
External Sound Cards Comparison Table
| Make and Model | Weight | Dimensions | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| TechRise USB External Stereo Sound Card | 1.6 oz. | 7 x 1 x 0.3” | Check Price |
| PHOINIKAS Versatile External USB Sound Card | 4.8 oz. | 4.3 x 1.2 x 4.7” | Check Price |
| Creative Sound Blaster Omni Surround USB Card | 0.16 oz. | 9.1 x 3 x 6.1” | Check Price |
| Optimal Shop 6CH USB 2.0 External Sound Card | 4.0 oz. | 4.1 x 3.8 x 1.2” | Check Price |
| Tendak USB Hub w/ AExternal Sound Card | 4.8 oz. | 4.9 x 4.4 x 1.3” | Check Price |
| StarTech External Sound Card for Laptop or PC | 4.2 oz. | 6.9 x 5.6 x 1.2” | Check Price |
| Creative Sound BlasterX G1 7.1 USB Sound Card | 0.64 oz. | 5.4 x 0.9 x 0.4” | Check Price |
| V.TOP 7.1 USB External Sound Card Audio Adapter | 5.3 oz. | 3.9 x 2.4 x 0.8” | Check Price |
| Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi USB Sound Card | 7.0 oz. | 8.9 x 2.4 x 6.3” | Check Price |
| Sound BlasterX G6 130dB External Sound Card | 7.0 oz. | 4.4 x 0.9 x 2.8” | Check Price |
1. TechRise USB Stereo Sound Card | Best Budget
Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5
The Best Budget Pick goes to an affordable USB external stereo sound card by TechRise. It’s a perfect, versatile replacement for a damaged internal soundcard for only a few dollars.
- Best feature 1: USB plug-n-play soundcard simplicity
- Best feature 2: Adjustable volume control
- Plus points: Stereo sound effect, TRS mic jack, mute button, versatile, extension cord
- Minus points: Cheaply made, fragile
OS Support: Windows XP, Vista, Win 7, Win 8, Windows 10, Chrome OS, MAC, and Linux.
TechRise External Sound Card Highlights
The great thing about sound cards like this is the plug-n-play simplicity. You don’t have to open the computer or laptop to replace a damaged or broken soundcard. All you do is plug it into a USB port, and it’s good to go. It comes with an extension lead, fully adjustable Volume Control, and a handy Mute Button. The product works with speakers, mics, headphones, and double-plug headsets.
This soundcard is cheap, yet it offers a lot for the price. Where it lacks, though, is with the build. It feels more fragile than it looks, so it’s unlikely to stand up to moderate knocks and drops.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: TechRise |
| Connection: USB |
| Number of Inputs: 2 |
| Number of Outputs: 1 |
| Headphone Jack: Yes |
| Dimensions: 7 x 1 x 0.3” |
| Product Weight: 1.6 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| USB plug-n-play simplicity |
| Affordable and versatile |
| Outstanding sound quality |
| Smooth volume control |
| Stereo sound effect |
| Works w/ headphones & double-plug headsets |
| Mute button for audio & mic |
| TRS mic jack compatible |
| Extension cord included |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Cheaply build, fragile |
2. PHOINIKAS External USB Sound Card | Best Value
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5
The Editor’s Best Value pick is for the versatile PHOINIKAS external USB sound card. It’s an affordable, multi-port device that offers excellent value for a product in its class.
- Best feature 1: Versatile and powerful soundcard
- Best feature 2: Personalized sound effects
- Plus points: Surround sound, volume control, mic/speaker mute, 6 ports, long cable
- Minus points: Cheap build quality
OS Support: Windows XP, WIN 7, 8, 8.1, 10, MAC IOS, PS4, and all other common systems.
PHOINIKAS USB Sound Card Highlights
This external USB 360° surround sound card by PHOINIKAS offers six ports. They include three USB 2.0 and three 3.5mm jacks. You can use multiple ports simultaneously without the need for extra adapters. It’s a versatile product for use with external speakers, headphones, mics, and USB devices. Users can personalize sound effects with ease via the product’s EQ.
The onboard controls include a smooth volume dial and mute for mics and speakers. The extended 4ft cable lets you easily place the soundcard to a convenient location. Consider the PHOINIKAS if you need a second, enhanced source for speakers and headphones. Its pro-level sound quality is perfect for use with services like Skype, Team Speak, and Google Hangouts, etc.
You’d be hard-pressed to find a better USB sound card in this price category. The only significant criticism is that the build quality is cheap and makes the product feel a little delicate.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: PHOINIKAS |
| Connection: Xxx |
| Number of USB Hubs: 3 |
| Number of 3.5mm Ports: 3 |
| Headphone Jack: Yes |
| Stereo Surround Sound: 360° |
| Dimensions: 4.3 x 1.2 x 4.7” |
| Product Weight: 4.8 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Versatile and powerful for its class |
| Intuitive design, easy-to-use |
| 3 x USB 2.0 ports |
| 3 x 3.5mm ports |
| Personalized sound effects |
| 360° surround sound |
| Smooth volume control |
| Pro-level sound quality |
| Mic and speaker mute |
| Long 4ft extension cord |
| Excellent value |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Cheap, plasticky build |
3. Sound Blaster Omni Surround 5.1 | Top Pick
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
Sound Blaster (SB) Omni Surround 5.1 by Creative takes the Best Value slot. This versatile USB external sound card has a lot to offer. It costs more than the two above, but is it worth the extra?
- Best feature 1: High-performance headphone amp
- Best feature 2: Integrated beam-forming mic
- Plus points: Easy to use, clear audio, excellent build, intuitive CP, headphone amp, 2 mics
- Minus points: Quite big
OS Support: Microsoft Windows Vista, Windows 7, 8, Mac OS V. 10.6 and above.
Sound Blaster Omni Sound Card Highlights
The SB Omni Surround 5.1 is a significant upgrade to the built-in PC and Mac soundcards. This puppy has a bunch of handy features that make it simple to use. On top of the device is a large, fully-adjustable volume wheel. On the side is a Line In port for MP3s and iPods, a Mic Jack, and a Headphone Jack. On the back of the Sound Blaster Omni are the 5.1 system connections.
The two beam-forming microphones are also worth mention. The Sound Blaster Omni uses powerful CrystalVoice technologies with advanced noise reduction. The result is crystal-clear, studio-quality recording. A 3.5mm to Male RCA adapter (included) makes it possible to connect the device to any system. The only drawback is that some find the sound card big and awkward compared to others.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: Creative |
| Connection: Micro USB port |
| Number of Inputs: 2 |
| Number of Outputs: 6 |
| Headphone Jack: 3.5 mm (1/8”) |
| Dimensions: 9.1 x 3 x 6.1” |
| Product Weight: 0.16 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Superb build quality |
| Crystal-clear audio |
| Easy to use |
| Intuitive Control Panel (CP) |
| Large adjustable volume dial |
| Advanced noise reduction |
| 2 beam-forming mics |
| High-performing headphone amp |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Big and bulky for its class |
4. Optimal Shop 6CH USB 2.0 External Sound Card
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.2/5
Meet the Optimal Shop USB 2.0 external sound card. It’s a 6-channel product for Windows OS, including Win 10. Use this affordable device to record and playback analog and digital audio.
- Best feature 1: Simple yet effective external USB sound card
- Best feature 2: Works with most versions of Windows
- Plus points: Affordable, compact and light, easy to use, multiple ports, includes software
- Minus points: Average build quality, no detailed instructions
OS Support: Windows 98 / XP / 2000 / Vista / Win7/8, Windows 10, and MAC OS.
Optimal Shop USB Sound Card Highlights
This is not the best-looking palm-sized USB sound card out there, but it’s cheap, reliable, and effective. It’s perfect if you have a defective audio jack, or need more of them to connect a 5.1 surround sound system. On the front of the soundcard are a Mic In port and SPDIF IN/OUT ports. To the right of those are the Line-In, Front Out, Rear Out, and Cen/Bass Out ports.
The box includes a software CD and a USB cable. You must install the included drivers with pre-Win 10 OS, but it’s a straightforward process. The build quality is not impressive, but it should be fine with careful handling. This is a no-thrills product that does exactly as advertised.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: Optimal Shop |
| Connection: USB |
| Number of Inputs: 3 |
| Number of Outputs: 4 |
| Headphone Jack: Yes |
| Dimensions: 4.1 x 3.8 x 1.2” |
| Product Weight: 4 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Affordable USB soundcard |
| Compact and lightweight |
| Easy to configure/use |
| Multiple ports |
| Windows/Mac compatible |
| Includes install software |
| Value for money |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Average build quality |
| No detailed instructions |
5. Tendak USB Hub w/ External Sound Card
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.5/5
The Tendak USB Hub and External Sound Card is a budget-priced device with some attractive features. It’s another plug-n-play product that comes with an extended 120cm (3.9ft) cable.
- Best feature 1: Plug-n-play simplicity
- Best feature 2: Three USB ports
- Plus points: Wide applications, volume control, personalized sound effects, audio/mic port
- Minus points: Decent sound, not exceptional
OS Support: All PCs, laptops, and desktop computers running Windows XP, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and MAC iOS.
Tendak USB Hub, USB Sound Card Highlights
This product can replace a broken sound card or audio port in an instant. Tendak’s USB sound card is also an ideal solution for anyone who wants to expand their USB ports. That means one port becomes three with the extra convenience of a multifunctional product. Think flash drives, USB keyboards, and mouse, etc. The device also offers 3.5mm ports for headsets, headphones, mics, and speakers.
Users can enhance their audio experience still further with personalized sounds. The EQ button presents special effects for music, movies, and gaming applications. A silky-smooth volume control uses Blue bright LED indicators. The LEDs also help you to remember the audio levels for various functions. Sound quality is decent for the price, though not exceptional.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: Tendak |
| Connection: USB |
| Number of Inputs: 3 |
| Number of Outputs: 3 |
| Headphone Jack: Yes |
| Dimensions: 4.9 x 4.4 x 1.3” |
| Product Weight: 4.8 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Excellent value soundcard |
| Plug-n-play simplicity |
| 3 USB ports |
| Wide application use |
| Volume control w/ LEDs |
| Personalized sound effects Audio/mic port |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Decent sound, not exceptional |
6. StarTech External Sound Card for Laptop or PC
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.4/5
StarTech’s External Sound Card Audio Adapter is for Laptops and PCs. Its USB connection lets you add 3.5mm audio/mic connections and a SPDIF digital audio output to your system.
- Best feature 1: Home-theatre quality sound
- Best feature 2: Affordable and versatile
- Plus points: Small and compact, external volume/EQ controls, long warranty, lifetime support
- Minus points: 5.1 surround sound not supported outside of Windows
OS Support: Windows® and Mac OS
StarTech USB Computer Sound Card Highlights
StarTech’s handy USB sound card enables you to bypass the one built into your computer. It’s a small compact product with easy-to-adjust external volume and EQ controls. This is a multi-purpose device that’s ideal for a range of applications. That includes surround sound support for the home-theater. The only downside is that its 5.1 surround sound is a Windows-only feature.
All sound recording and playback features work as promoted. The company backs its sound card with a 2-year warranty and lifetime tech support.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: StarTech |
| Connection: USB |
| Number of Inputs: 1 |
| Number of Outputs: 3 |
| Headphone Jack: Yes |
| Dimensions: 6.9 x 5.6 x 1.2” |
| Product Weight: 4.2 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Home-theatre quality sound |
| Affordable, multi-purpose device |
| Small and compact |
| External volume/EQ controls |
| Extended warranty |
| Lifetime tech support |
| The Cons |
|---|
| 5.1 surround sound not supported outside of Windows |
7. Creative Sound BlasterX G1 7.1 USB Sound Card
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.3/5
Creative’s Sound BlasterX G1 7.1 is a USB Sound Card that enhances any headset or speaker system.
- Best feature 1: Small form factor, portable
- Best feature 2: Works with most studio-grade and gaming headsets
- Plus points: Truly immersive experience, crystal-clear audio, X-Plus Configurator, Scout Mode
- Minus points: Scout Mode too loud for some users
OS Support: Windows 10, Win 8.1, 8, 7, Vista, MAC OS X v10.8, and PS4.
Creative Sound BlasterX G1 7.1 Sound Card Highlights
You can use the Creative Sound BlasterX G1 with any headset to create a virtual 7.1 experience. That means realistic virtual surround sound. The headphone amplifier drives the most popular studio-grade and gaming headphones. It’s not only about headsets, either. This powerful little device also upgrades the speaker experience when plugged into any PC, PS4, or MAC computer.
Consider the Sound BlasterX G1 7.1 if you want a truly immersive experience. The default audio quality is crystal clear, but it gets even better with the X-Plus Configurator. It’s the tool used to program the G1 with a unique sound signature. Scout Mode helps to recognize cues better and increases volume levels above what rivals can hear. Some complain that it’s too loud, though.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: Creative |
| Connectivity (Main): 4-pole |
| Platform: USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 |
| Max Channel Output: Stereo |
| Audio Fidelity: Up to 24-bit/96kHz |
| Dimensions: 5.4 x 0.9 x 0.4” |
| Product Weight: 0.64 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Small form factor |
| Plug-n-play simplicity |
| Affordable USB sound card |
| Truly immersive experience |
| Instantly upgrades speakers & headsets |
| BlasterX Acoustic Engine |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Scout Mode too loud for some |
8. V.TOP 7.1 USB External Sound Card Audio Adapter
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.4/5
At #8 we have the V.TOP 7.1. It’s another quality USB external sound card audio adapter. The device uses a high-speed USB 2.0 host interface with 480 Mbps transfer rates.
- Best feature 1: 7.1CH home-theater sound system
- Best feature 2: Versatile, multi-purpose soundcard
- Plus points: Superb audio quality, cost-effective, volume control, dual mic input, mute button
- Minus points: None
OS Support: Windows 10 / 8 / and WIN 7, and MAC OS
V.TOP 7.1 USB Sound Card Adapter Highlights
It’s a versatile, smart external USB sound card. Use it to turn any Windows desktop computer or laptop into a 7.1CH home theater sound system. The connection is via a single USB 2.0 port on the host device, and then it’s good to go. Plug-n-play simplicity means it’s quick and easy to swap between systems. And the analog and digital audio support make this a truly cost-saving upgrade.
Here’s a breakdown of the impressive on-body features:
| Volume Button Vol Mute Button Mic Mute Button Work Indicator Light | USB IN S/PDIF IN Line IN Mic In (L) Mic In (R) | S/PDIF OUT Headphones OUT Front OUT Back OUT Surround OUT Center/Bass OUT |
This USB sound card is simple yet professional. It works as a pre-amp for condenser-type mics, 7.1 audio support for laptops, and to connect computers to a home theater audio receiver.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: V.TOP |
| Connection: USB |
| Number of Inputs: 5 |
| Number of Outputs: 6 |
| Headphone Jack: Yes |
| Dimensions: 3.9 x 2.4 x 0.8” |
| Product Weight: 5.3 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Versatile, multi-purpose card |
| 7.1CH home-theater system |
| Superb audio quality |
| Cost-effective upgrade |
| Volume control |
| Dual external mic inputs |
| Mute button |
| The Cons |
|---|
| None considering cost |
9. Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi USB Sound Card
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.3/5
The penultimate review goes to the Sound Blaster X-Fi USB Sound Card. It’s super-easy to install and turns any notebook or PC into an instant 5.1 entertainment system.
- Best feature 1: Quick to install with plug-n-play simplicity
- Best feature 2: Sleek, compact design
- Plus points: Volume control, mute, remote control, Mic/Headphone jacks, SBX Pro Studio
- Minus points: Not compatible with MAC OS
OS Support: Windows (most versions), including Windows 10. New buyers with older versions should check with the seller for compatibility before buying.
Sound Blaster X-Fi Sound Card Highlights
Add the Sound Blaster X-Fi Surround 5.1 Pro to your shortlist if you need a compelling upgrade. It has a sleek, compact design that functions seamlessly without a separate power adapter. This Creative device guarantees to replace low-quality built-in audio with superior sound. Essential features such as the Volume Control, Mute, Headphone, and Mic inputs are at your fingertips using the IR remote.
SBX Pro Studio brings a full suite of audio enrichment technologies. It delivers enhanced audio experiences for lovers of movies, music, and gamers. The bad news—for some—is that this product is not compatible with MAC OS, at least not at the time of writing.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: Creative |
| Connection: Mini USB |
| Number of Inputs: 2 |
| Number of Outputs: 6 |
| Headphone Jack: Yes |
| Dimensions: 8.9 x 2.4 x 6.3” |
| Product Weight: 7 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Quick to install |
| Plug-n-play simplicity |
| Sleek, compact design |
| Smooth volume control |
| Mute feature |
| IR remote control |
| Mic/Headphone jacks |
| SBX Pro Studio |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Not compatible with MAC OS |
10. Sound BlasterX G6 130dB External Sound Card
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.5/5
My last mini-review is for another product sold by Creative Labs, Inc. This one is the Sound BlasterX G6 130dB. It’s the most expensive external USB sound card on the page, but is it worth the extra?
- Best feature 1: Exceptional audio performance
- Best feature 2: Custom-designed headphone amplifier
- Plus points: Fingertip access to controls, 7.1 audio realism, full audio customization
- Minus points: No battery, so not fully portable
OS Support: Windows V. 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Mac OS (10.9 or higher), PS4, Xbox, and Switch.
Sound BlasterX G6 USB Sound Card Highlights
Those who buy the Sound BlasterX G6 7.1 care about quality. It’s an HD gaming DAC and an external USB sound card. You can use this beauty with PC, PS4, Xbox, and SWITCH. The audio performance is likely the best in its class. One of its standout features is the discrete, custom-designed Xamp headphone amplifier. Xamp can drive a wide variety of dedicated gaming headphones.
The Sound BlasterX G6 gives fingertip access to profile buttons and Sidetone volume control. It promises 7.1 audio realism and full audio customization. There’s a lot to explore with this sound card. Despite that, it’s intuitive, and it doesn’t take long to become familiar with its full potential. The most common gripe is that a card in this class should come with a battery.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: Creative |
| Connection: USB |
| Number of Inputs: 4 |
| Number of Outputs: 3 |
| Headphone Jack: Yes |
| Dimensions: 4.4 x 0.9 x 2.8” |
| Product Weight: 7 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Easy to use, feature-packed |
| Exceptional audio performance |
| 7.1 audio realism |
| Multiple connections |
| Custom-designed headphone amp |
| Fingertip access to controls |
| Large volume control knob |
| Impressive software suite |
| 3 different modes |
| Audio customization |
| The Cons |
|---|
| No battery makes it less portable |
Contents
- How to Choose the Ideal External Sound Card
- Multiple Benefits of a USB External Sound Card
- Practical Uses for an External Sound Card
- About My ‘External Sound Card’ Guide
- External Sound Cards Comparison Table
- 1. TechRise USB Stereo Sound Card | Best Budget
- TechRise External Sound Card Highlights
- 2. PHOINIKAS External USB Sound Card | Best Value
- PHOINIKAS USB Sound Card Highlights
- 3. Sound Blaster Omni Surround 5.1 | Top Pick
- Sound Blaster Omni Sound Card Highlights
- 4. Optimal Shop 6CH USB 2.0 External Sound Card
- Optimal Shop USB Sound Card Highlights
- 5. Tendak USB Hub w/ External Sound Card
- Tendak USB Hub, USB Sound Card Highlights
- 6. StarTech External Sound Card for Laptop or PC
- StarTech USB Computer Sound Card Highlights
- 7. Creative Sound BlasterX G1 7.1 USB Sound Card
- Creative Sound BlasterX G1 7.1 Sound Card Highlights
- 8. V.TOP 7.1 USB External Sound Card Audio Adapter
- V.TOP 7.1 USB Sound Card Adapter Highlights
- 9. Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi USB Sound Card
- Sound Blaster X-Fi Sound Card Highlights
- 10. Sound BlasterX G6 130dB External Sound Card
- Sound BlasterX G6 USB Sound Card Highlights
