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The Bose Companion 2 Series III was the go-to “best desk speakers under $100” recommendation for years. It’s now discontinued, but since so many people still own them (or find them used), a full breakdown is worth having.
Specs
| Type | 2.0 stereo |
| Inputs | 3.5mm AUX (x2), headphone jack |
| Power | Not disclosed (typical Bose) |
| Controls | Volume knob on right speaker |
| Retail Price (when available) | ~$99 |
| Status | Discontinued |
What made it good
The Companion 2 Series III had a sound profile that was easy to live with: warm mids, a slightly elevated low-end, and enough top-end sparkle to keep music engaging. Bose tuned these for casual desktop listening and they nailed it. Setup was dead simple — 3.5mm into your PC, plug in power, done. The stereo imaging for a 2.0 system was notably wide for the size and price.
Two 3.5mm inputs meant you could keep a PC and a phone (or any second device) connected simultaneously. The headphone jack on the right speaker was a nice touch for late-night sessions without having to reach to the back of the PC.
Honest weaknesses
No Bluetooth. At $99 that was a notable omission even when the product was current. The bass extension was limited — 2.0 systems without a subwoofer always are, and the Companion 2 didn’t have the low-end reach of competitors with a dedicated sub. Bose, as usual, never disclosed power ratings, which frustrated spec-focused buyers.
Should you buy one used?
If you find Companion 2 Series III speakers used in good condition for under $50, they’re worth picking up. The Bose sound signature holds up and the build quality is solid. At over $70 used, you’re better off buying the Logitech Z313 new — you get a subwoofer, similar audio quality, and a warranty.
What replaced it?
Bose hasn’t released a direct desktop speaker successor. If you want new Bose audio for your desk, you’re looking at the SoundLink portable Bluetooth series or the Bose TV Speaker soundbar — neither of which is a direct replacement. For the $99 price point the Companion 2 occupied, the Logitech Z313 (2.1, $55) and Creative T100 (2.0, ~$75) are the current recommendations.
