
Too many sound cards? Here's how to find the right one
Here are five key factors to consider when choosing the right sound card for your needs.
Last updated 1 month ago. Automatically generated content.


Select options and limit the number of products
The maximum number of surround channels a sound card supports determines the audio experience it can deliver. It is crucial for creating a realistic sound environment, enhancing immersion in movies, games, and music.
Popular options (you can select more than one)
5.1
Supports six audio channels, including five main speakers and one subwoofer.
Ideal for home theater setups, providing a balanced sound experience for movies and games.
Bestseller
7.1
Supports eight audio channels, adding two additional speakers for enhanced surround sound.
Offers a more immersive audio experience, perfect for serious gamers and movie enthusiasts who want detailed sound placement.
Bestseller

Creative Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus Hi-Res Gaming Sound Card / DAC - RGB, PCIe
PCI-E x1
Audio channel refers to the number of independent audio signals a sound card can process, directly affecting the sound experience. Choosing the right audio channel configuration can enhance audio clarity and spatial awareness, making it crucial for gamers, musicians, and general media consumption.
Popular options (you can select more than one)
Stereo
Typical price
14,– to 27,–Consists of two audio channels (left and right) for basic sound reproduction.
Ideal for music listening and general media, providing a simple yet effective audio experience.
Bestseller

Lindy audio converter
USB-C
5.1 channels
Typical price
17,– to 57,–Includes six audio channels, providing surround sound with three front speakers, two rear speakers, and a subwoofer.
Enhances immersion in movies and games, allowing for a more dynamic audio environment and realistic sound placement.
Bestseller

Creative Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus Hi-Res Gaming Sound Card / DAC - RGB, PCIe
PCI-E x1
7.1 Channel
Typical price
22,– to 72,–Features eight audio channels, adding two additional rear speakers for improved surround sound.
Offers an even more immersive experience, perfect for serious gamers and movie enthusiasts seeking the highest audio fidelity and spatial accuracy.
Bestseller
Audio outputs determine how sound is delivered from the sound card to various devices. Choosing the right output ensures compatibility with your audio equipment, enhancing your listening experience whether for music production, gaming, or general use.
Popular options (you can select more than one)
3.5mm jack (1x)
Typical price
14,– to 29,–Single 3.5mm jack output for headphones or speakers.
Ideal for basic audio needs, providing a straightforward connection to most consumer audio devices.
Bestseller
USB
Typical price
11,– to 94,–USB output for digital audio transfer to compatible devices.
Offers superior sound quality and is perfect for connecting to modern headphones or external DACs.
Bestseller
3.5mm jack (2x)
Typical price
12,– to 25,–Dual 3.5mm jack outputs for stereo sound or multiple devices.
Provides flexibility for connecting both headphones and speakers simultaneously, enhancing versatility.
Bestseller
Audio inputs refer to the various connection types available on a sound card for receiving audio signals. Choosing the right audio inputs is crucial for ensuring compatibility with your audio devices and optimizing sound quality for different applications, such as music production, gaming, or general media playback.
Popular options (you can select more than one)
3.5mm jack (1x)
Standard audio input that accommodates a wide range of headphones and microphones.
Ideal for casual users who want a simple plug-and-play solution without needing additional adapters.
Bestseller

Creative Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus Hi-Res Gaming Sound Card / DAC - RGB, PCIe
PCI-E x1
USB Type C
Modern input type that supports digital audio signals and offers faster data transfer rates.
Great for users with newer devices, allowing for high-quality audio and the convenience of a single cable for both power and audio.
Bestseller
Microphone/line level
Designed specifically for connecting microphones or line-level audio sources directly to the sound card.
Essential for content creators, podcasters, and musicians seeking to capture high-quality audio without degradation.
Bestseller
The hardware interface of a sound card determines how it connects to a computer and other audio devices. Choosing the right interface is crucial as it affects compatibility, performance, and the overall audio experience.
Popular options (you can select more than one)
USB-C
Typical price
18,– to 61,–Features a reversible connector that supports high-speed data transfer and power delivery.
Ideal for modern devices, USB-C offers versatility and convenience, making it easy to connect multiple peripherals without the hassle of orientation.
Bestseller
USB
Typical price
15,– to 31,–Utilizes a standard USB type-A or type-B connector, widely compatible with most computers and devices.
USB sound cards are easy to install and use, making them a great choice for casual users and those looking for plug-and-play solutions.
Bestseller
PCI Express x1
Typical price
61,– to 110,–Connects directly to the motherboard, providing high bandwidth for superior audio processing capabilities.
Best suited for gamers and professionals, PCI Express sound cards deliver lower latency and better sound quality compared to external options.
Bestseller

Creative Sound BlasterX AE-5 Plus Hi-Res Gaming Sound Card / DAC - RGB, PCIe
PCI-E x1