13 Best Sound Card For PC and Gaming In 2023 [Budget-Friendly]

Here we will review and compare the top Sound Card to provide enhanced sound when you are playing a video or listening to in-game sounds:

Feeling left out of audio even after purchasing an expensive headset?

Without a proper audio boost, the headset is of no use! All you need to have is a sound card that provides a dynamic sound that is perfect for editing.

The real function of a sound card is to respond well to your audio requirements. The inbuilt audio on your PC or laptop may just not be enough. You can find these chipsets with both internal and external configurations.

Finding out the Best Sound Card can be a difficult challenge. So to help you with this, we’ve come up with a list of the top best Sound Cards available in the market today. Simply scroll down below to get the best results.

Let us begin!

BEST PC Sound Card – A Complete Review

FAQs About Sound Card for Gaming

Q #1) Do audio cards really make a difference?

Answer: The main function of an audio card is to provide enhanced sound when you are playing a video or willing to listen to in-game sounds. The in-built audio card of any PC or gaming console might be dull and may not provide surround sound, even with an expensive headset. So you need to have a good sound card that will balance out the sound.

Q #2) Which is the best audio card?

Answer: Finding out the best audio card can be a bit difficult. It is important to have the right audio card, which will enhance the surround sound abilities and will also provide a great result. If you want to have the right gamer sound cards, you can pick from the list below:

• Sound BlasterX G6 Hi-Res
• HyperX Amp USB Audio card
• Creative Sound Blaster Audigy FX PCIe
• ASUS XONAR SE 5.1 Channel
• Creative Sound Blaster AE-7

Q #3) What is the V8 soundcard?

Answer: Figure V8 defines the version of the audio card you will be using. This is a specific audio card that is designed and developed with multi-function models. As of now, this is the only chipset that supports dual mobile use. The sound card for gaming can work well with both iOS and Android phones.

Q #4) How long does the soundcard battery last?

Answer: You can find these chipsets in two different versions. One of them will be a PCIe internal card while the other one might be an external card. Internal cards will get the power supply from the socket source of your motherboard. So they do not require any battery. Some external devices get connected to the PC using a USB plug to get the power source.

Q #5) Are USB audio cards good?

Answer: USB cards could be the ideal choice if you are a video editor or a cinematographer. In fact, an external chipset allows you to make it portable by connecting it to different consoles even if it is a PC or a laptop. Thus, USB audio cards are extremely helpful if you want to use the audiophile levels.

List of the BEST Sound Card

Popular and best sound cards for gaming list:

1. Sound BlasterX G6 Hi-Res
2. HyperX Amp USB Sound Card
3. Creative Sound Blaster Audigy FX PCIe
4. ASUS XONAR SE 5.1 Channel
5. Creative Sound Blaster AE-7
6. TechRise USB Sound Card, USB External Stereo Sound Adapter
7. T10 External Sound Card
8. StarTech.com 7.1 USB Sound Card
9. Creative Sound Blaster Z SE Internal PCI-e
10. Padarsey PCIe Sound Card
11. GODSHARK PCIe Sound Card
12. Audio Injector Zero Sound Card
13. HINYSENO PCI-E 7.1 Channel Optical Coaxial Digital Stereo

Comparison Table of Top Gamer Sound Cards

Detailed reviews:

#1) Sound BlasterX G6 Hi-Res

Best for speaker control for PS4.

Sound BlasterX G6 Hi-Res is preferable because of its amazing audio definition. This device has a scout mode which allows you to listen to the in-game cues. It is a perfect choice for any user who would want to use a gaming console for any tactical advantage, like listening to footsteps.

Coming over to audio technology, the Sound BlasterX G6 Hi-Res supports Xamp which amplifies both audio channels individually to get better sound output.

When it comes to performance, the best sound card for gaming has an ultra-high dynamic range of 130dB. Even with the higher pitch volume, the distortion levels are minimal and you can listen to clear audio easily. It also supports both hi-res PCM and DoP audio formats.

Features:

• Custom-made amplifier.
• In-game voice communication enhancements.
• Ultra-low 1 Ohm output impedance.
• Xamp Discrete Headphone Bi-amp.
• Hear in-game cues with Scout Mode.

Technical Specifications:

Pros:

• Immersive 7.1 surrounds virtualization.
• Easy-to-reach profile buttons.
• Sidetone volume control.

Cons:

• The device can get pretty hot after a few hours of usage.
• The main material looks metallic but isn’t.

Price: It is available for $149.99 on Amazon.

This product is also available in the official store of Creative USA for a price of $179.99. You may find the card on several other platforms in the same price range.

Website: Sound BlasterX G6 Hi-Res

#2) HyperX Amp USB Sound Card

Best for microphone noise cancellation.

HyperX Amp USB Sound Card is well-known for its enhanced noise cancellation feature. It is one of the key reasons for its selection. The product helps to deliver crystal clear communication without any noise or background score.

Another feature is the convenient audio control option. It has a small controller which allows you to quickly alter the configuration. You can adjust audio and mic volume and mute the mic without taking the help of an external device.

The best sound cards for gaming products provide a dynamic sound quality with a simple plug-and-play mechanism. While reviewing, we found that the plug-and-play device takes just seconds to pair up.

Features:

• Comes with a decent audio support box.
• The cable length is more than 6.5 feet.
• It comes with better noise cancellation.
• The device has stereo headsets.
• It has easy communication.

Technical Specifications:

Pros:

• Plug n play.
• Virtual 7.1 surround sound.
• Light in weight.

Cons:

• No firmware update.
• PS4 configuration needs troubleshooting.

Price: It is available for $29.99 on Amazon.

The product is available on the official store of HyperX and it is retailed globally from here. The price range of this device is set at $29.99. There are no offers or discounts for any retailers.

Website: HyperX Amp USB Sound Card

#3) Creative Sound Blaster Audigy FX PCIe

Best for high-performance headphones.

The reason Creative Sound Blaster Audigy FX PCIe is the most preferred one is that it comes with a stereo direct feature that can allow you to listen to your music without any delay. It has a direct plug-and-play mechanism for great response.

Another feature that impressed everyone is the ability to deliver around 600 ohms of power. This will provide you with a comfortable level of immersion in your cinematic experience with the Sound Blaster.

The option of having an independent line-in and microphone connectors grants you to plug in two different audio sources to your PC. It improvises the audio listening experience and provides a great result.

Features:

• Enjoy the multi-channel cinematic sound.
• Powered by SBX Pro Studio technology.
• Comes with 5.1 channel outputs.
• Delivering 106dB SNR of pristine audio fidelity.
• Audigy Fx can deliver 600 ohms of power.

Further Reading => Explore the List of Top Sound Bar in the Market

Technical Specifications:

Pros:

• Advanced audio processing with SBX Pro Studio.
• 106 SNR and 24-bit 192kHz DAC.
• 600-ohm headphone amp for high performance.

Cons:

• The in-game audio might not be good.
• The price is slightly higher.

Price: It is available for $43.07 on Amazon.

This product is also available at the online store of Creative USA. The official website retails this product at a price of $44.99. You can find some other websites like uBuy and Walmart in the same price range.

#4)  ASUS XONAR SE 5.1 Channel

Best for minimal audio distortion.

ASUS XONAR SE 5.1 Channel is praised for its defined bass and immersive sound quality. This is due to the 192kHz/24-bit Hi-Res audio with a 300ohm that the card provides.

The product delivers a crystal clear sound ratio which is exceptional to use. It also comes with updated audio cables, which can provide a minimum balance of distortion and interference.

Because of the low profile budget, the ASUS XONAR SE 5.1 Channel is one of our favorite picks. We can easily configure it with any of the PC setups and without any upgrades.

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Features:

• The device comes with a 7.1 channel surround sound.
• This includes a 110 dB SNR option.
• The product is Hyper Grounding technology from ASUS.
• You can get the Sonic Studio option included.
• The product has a decent voice technology option.

Technical Specifications:

Pros:

• Included in the low profile bracket.
• Minimal audio distortion and interference.
• Comes with a spacious interface.

Cons:

• Drivers are not upgradable.
• Only stereo comes out of the SPDIF optical.

Price: It is available for $42.99 on Amazon.

This product is also available at the online store of ASUS for a price of $69.99. You can also find it in some official stores of Walmart and other retailers.

Website: ASUS XONAR SE 5.1 Channel

#5) Creative Sound Blaster AE-7

Best for virtual surround sounds on headphones.

If you look at the specifications that the Creative Sound Blaster AE-7 offers, you will fall in love with this chipset. Even if it is an internal audio card, the product delivers a complete set of audio enhancements. You can also customize it through the interface.

The option of having a custom amplifier makes the product a great choice. It features a lower impedance than 1 ohm, which drives studio-grade headphones.

The AE-7 features a custom headphone jack, which makes the output audio distribution and quality much more precise. It also comes with the right support for great headphones.

Features:

• Hi-res ESS SABRE-class 9018.
• It comes with 127 dB DNR audio options for stream.
• Perfect for quick access to the volume control knob.
• Lower impedance than 1 ohm.
• Comes with a complete audio response.

Technical Specifications:

Pros:

• Full suite of audio enhancements.
• The device has the Dialog Plus feature included.
• It comes with a sound blaster configuration.

Cons:

• The price is a bit high.

Price: It is available for $191.68 on Amazon.

You can also find this product available at the Creative USA store for a price of $229.99. At the same time, Newegg retails this product at $219.99.

#6) TechRise USB Sound Card, USB External Stereo Sound Adapter

Best for external stereo sound adapter splitter.

One feature that is liked about the TechRise USB Sound Card, USB External Stereo Sound Adapter, is the option of a simple plug-and-play mechanism. Users feel that it saves time as you will not have to install any drivers for usage.

Another impressive feature is that both TRS and TRRS hacks can support microphone input. This will allow you to split the audio from any external storage, which is great for mixing as well. The adapter and splitter converter works aptly without any distortion.

This product has the option of having a great mixer function. The best budget sound card comes with a mini LED combination of loudspeaker mode that allows you to choose 16 different rhythmic patterns and 23 different environmental modes.

Features:

• Mini LED and surround sound.
• Includes volume rollers on the control panel.
• Lightweight and portable size.
• Dual Mono Mic inputs.
• Dual Stereo audio outputs.

Technical Specifications:

Pros:

• Plug & Play, no drivers needed.
• Splitter converter with volume control.
• Good for Windows and Mac.

Cons:

• Not for gaming consoles

Price: It is available for $18.95 on Amazon.

You can find this device on eBay for an official price of $30.63. It is also available in other online retail stores like uBuy.

#7) T10 External Sound Card

Best for Plug & Play.

The T10 External Sound Card comes with a 120 cm line length, which is quite moderate for any audio card. The external 3.5 mm audio connector support allows you to plug the device into an external audio source.

With the option of having a 6-in1 function, you can use this device for a wide range of applications. You can use the USB card for a quick configuration with a simple plug and play mechanism included.

The one feature that is most liked is the individual controls that it provides. It comes with volume control, microphone controls, and much more to quickly use the product.

Features:

• EQ button, switch button, pause/start button.
• The product uses high-quality chips.
• More wear-resistant and more durable during use.
• Microphone off/on the button and volume control button.
• Up to 120cm line length.

Technical Specifications:

Pros:

• Support 3.5mm audio equipment such as ordinary speakers.
• International standard 2.0 USB interface, plug and play.
• No driver is required.

Cons:

• The body material is not so good.

Price: It is available for $24.99 on Amazon.

You can find this device on eBay for an official price of $21.99. Other premium retailers also make the product available in the same price range.

#8) StarTech.com 7.1 USB Sound Card

Best for gaming audio.

The StarTech.com 7.1 USB Sound Card is definitely a top choice for professionals who are looking for a dynamic sound for gaming. The simple plug-and-play mechanism has all drivers included, which improves the in-game audio in minutes.

While reviewing the StarTech.com 7.1 USB Sound Card was found to be available with 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz sampling rates for analog playback and recording. It is specifically built for professionals who want fine audio.

Coming over to the specifications, this product has a 1m USB cable. This long cable allows you to place the audio device in a comfortable position without any worries.

Features:

• Connect to external speakers through 3.5mm.
• Supports 44.1KHz and 48KHz sampling rates.
• Easy-to-use volume controls and mute buttons.
• Home theatre-ready audio solution.
• Support for 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz sampling rates.

Technical Specifications:

Pros:

• 2-year warranty.
• Bus-powered audio to USB adapter.
• High-quality sound with multi-input capability.

Cons:

• It only has optical inputs.

Price: It is available for $38.99 on Amazon.

You can find this device at Startech.com for an official price of $60. Some other premium retailers also make the product available at a price range of $41.87.

Website: StarTech.com 7.1 USB Sound Card

#9) Creative Sound Blaster Z SE Internal PCI-e

Best for internal PCI-e gaming sound cards.

The Creative Sound Blaster Z SE Internal PCI-e comes with improved command software. It also includes good dynamics which can easily help to get the dynamic audio for the best results. The improved bass provides better sound dynamics.

The product also comes with a multi-core Sound Core3D audio processor designed to deliver high-quality, pristine audio.

Features:

• Supports up to 7.1 virtual on headphones and speakers.
• Dynamic range of audio or bass.
• Equipped with gold-plated connectors.
• Comes with speaker optimization technology.
• Multi-core Sound Core3D audio processor.

Technical Specifications:

Price: It is available for $95.09 on Amazon.

#10) Padarsey PCIe Sound Card

Best for 5.1 internal sound card.

The Padarsey PCIe Sound Card, with an amazing sound card, provides an improved listening experience. The 16-bit multimedia digital signal editing provides a complete improvisation of audio features. The device comes with a low profile bracket, which is great for games.

Features:

• 5.1 3D stereo surrounding sound.
• Comes with a single decoder.
• Supports rich audio processing.

Technical Specifications:

Price: It is available for $18.77 on Amazon.

#11) GODSHARK PCIe Sound Card

Best for PC Windows.

The GODSHARK PCIe Sound Card, with a low profile bracket that permits the drive to fit into any space. This product also comprises a 3D surrounding sound, which makes it much more reliable for sound editors. Also, the GODSHARK PCIe Sound Card comes with 32/64-bit audio processing, recording, and playback.

Features:

• Comes with PCIe integration.
• Comes with a quick auto conversion.
• With a low profile bracket for the 2U case.

Technical Specifications:

Price: It is available for $19.99 on Amazon.

#12) Audio Injector Zero Sound Card

Best for Linux PC setup.

The most impressive feature of the Audio Injector Zero Sound Card is the extraordinary sound option and quality. This product comes with 32 Ohm headphone support to listen to multiple audio units. The product has Standard GPIO available. This feature helps you to get the most out of the product.

Features:

• 50 mW max power into 16 ohms.
• Comes with 30 mW max power.
• Stereo input and output, including microphone input.

Technical Specifications:

Price: It is available for $24.00 on Amazon.

#13) HINYSENO PCI-E 7.1 Channel Optical Coaxial Digital Stereo

Best for 3D surround sound.

When it comes to performance, the HINYSENO PCI-E 7.1 Channel Optical Coaxial Digital Stereo is definitely a top product for you to choose from. Key features like karaoke key and Echo sound effects make it highly impressive. This product comes with an intelligent software interface onboard high-definition audio.

Features:

• CMI8828 multi-channel audio chip processor.
• Surround sound of EAX audio technology.
• HRTF-based 3D positional audio.

Technical Specifications:

Price: It is available for $46.80 on Amazon.

Conclusion

The best Sound Card should come with an explicit audio quality that improves the listening experience and makes it easier for video editors and cinematographers to listen to the perfect audio. Having the right card will allow you to listen to every detailed audio option that is playable on a track.

If you are looking for the best Sound Card, you can pick out the Sound BlasterX G6 Hi-Res card. It comes with a 7.1 Virtual Surround Sound and is great for PS4.

Some other best PC sound card alternatives commonly available are HyperX Amp USB Sound Card, Creative Sound Blaster Audigy FX PCIe, ASUS XONAR SE 5.1 Channel, and Creative Sound Blaster AE-7.

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