Rating of the best sound cards in 2020

Today, every person has access to a lot of digital entertainment, ranging from games to listening to music. But the main problem is that although manufacturers produce their products in large quantities, the price tags for them continue to be quite high. Developers try to achieve the best possible balance between quality and price, sometimes giving preference to the minimum set of characteristics for comfortable use. This article is dedicated to everyone who cannot imagine their life without music and requires much more than a standard sound card integrated into a motherboard can offer. This rating of the best sound cards in 2020 has incorporated the most interesting proposals from world famous brands and will be able to tell in detail about the advantages and disadvantages of each model.

Below we will consider the most popular "oldies" and well-proven "beginners" for a variety of purposes (from entertainment to professional work with sound). It is also worth considering that it is quite possible to get good sound in 2020 even for less than $ 100. The market situation forces the companies to reduce prices and fill even budget models with components of medium and high quality.

Briefly about the features of sound cards

Choosing a sound card, the user should immediately decide what he wants to get - a compact and inexpensive solution, but with average capabilities, or a high-quality volumetric device, but with a rather high price tag. However, there is room for a small compromise. So, PC owners should pay attention to integrated, that is, embedded cards. They will not only save space, but also provide the user with good sound with a clear signal with little distortion.

But laptop owners have not so great a choice: either to be content with an integrated card (often rather weak, because it uses processor resources and, as a rule, does not have a good converter, the inevitable electromagnetic interference inside the case also plays an important role) or take a closer look at the external sound cards (hereinafter referred to as ZK).

It is impossible to say unequivocally which type of ZK is better, because they are all intended for different purposes. However, external and discrete cards are an order of magnitude better than the built-in one, if only because it is a separate device with its own power supply and suitable accessories.

There are also some useful tips when choosing and configuring the ZK:

• Any ZK needs configuration and drivers. Fortunately, now this process is simplified as much as possible by the developers, but do not forget to update the software.
• External ZKs are distinguished by mobility and ease of use (in contrast to built-in ones, which are connected to the connectors on the rear of the computer), but the sound quality of discrete ones will be better (not critical, beginners may not even notice).
• There are hybrid types of ZK. For example, discrete ones that come with a remote control. The thing is very convenient and practical, however, it is almost impossible to find a quality model on the modern market.
• A built-in card is ideal for games, movies and entertainment. When choosing a motherboard, it is important to focus on the "freshness" of codecs and support for 7.1 sound. Judging by the latest reviews in 2020, even in motherboards under $ 150, there are very good models with clear sound.
• ZK for games should be equipped with a good amplifier (work with headphones with an impedance of 250 + Ohm) and a modern DAC (digital-to-analog converter); for games, the following characteristics are important: a combined mini-jack (for headphones and a headset), support for surround sound (preferably 7.1 or 5.1) and convenient control.

External ZK

External cards can vary in size and shape, however, all of them are united by a case and mobility (although professional models can hardly be called convenient for transportation).

Creative Sound Blaster Play! 3

Price: about 2200 rubles.

Perhaps, almost all fans of external cards will agree that Creative Sound Blaster Play! 3 is the best option on a limited budget. The price of the product is usually within the $ 30 range or slightly different.

It's difficult to say anything by sound, because all people have different ideas about good audio quality. But we can definitely say that this device is definitely better than most (if not all) built-in cards. And even if the improvement is not colossal, those who like to listen to music at work or away from home will definitely appreciate this device.

Its main advantage (apart from good sound, naturally) is its very compact dimensions (138 x 22.0 x 9.4 mm) and very light weight (only 13 grams). Essentially Sound Blaster Play! 3 is slightly larger than a flash drive, which, combined with the price, makes it just a great budget option. It is also worth highlighting that the developers took care and created an application for configuring the map, but it is very simple and will not cause any difficulties (in fact, the functionality of the product allows you not to configure anything).

The phrase "plug and play" is exactly the slogan of this card, because the device does not need additional software and has a built-in USB cable. The last feature, according to user reviews, turned out to be a little ambiguous. So, on the one hand, the cable is always with the owner, but on the other hand, it is convenient to use, and it rather loses from such a solution (a dangling case is not always convenient).

Features and characteristics: connected via USB 2.0, no need for an additional power supply (powered by a computer), connectors: 1 x jack 3.5 mm, 1 x microphone input; support: EAX: v. 5, playback quality 24bit / 96.0kHz (maximum), recording quality 24bit / 48.0kHz (maximum), signal / noise ~ 93dB.

Also, owners of laptops and PCs with broken built-in ZK should take a closer look at this model. Buying a new board, even an entry-level one, will cost $ 100 or more, and by purchasing this compact device the user will get better sound quality and save a lot of money.

• Better sound than integrated cards;
• Acceptable price;
• Very easy to set up;
• Plug and Play;
• Dimensions - the product is very compact.

• The case dangling on the wire (it is worth admitting that sometimes this drawback is very useful);
• Limited functionality.

Conclusion: Creative is a well-known brand that does really good things. As for the Creative Sound Blaster Play! 3, it is another masterpiece of the company - inexpensive, simple, compact and with good sound, this sound card will be the perfect solution for most people.

Behringer UCA222

Price: about 2450 rubles.

Another very interesting and, most importantly, inexpensive compact version of a portable card, featuring high recording quality. In fact, it is a more advanced version of the previous model and has several advantages. Firstly, it is support for ASIO 2.0, which is quite rare for a device for such a price. Secondly, the dimensions of the device are encouraging - it is the size of a charger for a smartphone, which allows you to use it anywhere. And finally, the last pluses are at least high-quality sound with low noise and excellent clear audio reproduction without loss of quality with added volume.

So does Sound Blaster Play! 3 is perfect for replacing a broken integrated gearbox, while providing good recording capabilities.Now regarding drivers and software. Officially, they are there, but you shouldn't download them. The application is practically useless and with its help you can only worsen the Behringer UCA222, especially since the card works without any settings - turn it on and use it.

As in the previous model, the connection is via a USB cable that is built into the case. It should be said that the quality of the wire is better here than that of the younger brother from Creative.

Features and characteristics: connected via USB 2.0, no need for an additional power supply (powered by a computer), connectors: 3 x jack 3.5 mm, 1 x microphone input; support: ASIO: v. 2.0, playback quality 16bit / 48.0kHz (maximum), recording quality 16bit / 48.0kHz (maximum), S / N ~ 89dB.

• Good case quality;
• Compactness;
• Good sound;
• ASIO support;
• Ideal for recording;
• Plug and Play;
• Acceptable price;
• No configuration required;

• The official software is poor (useless);
• Sampling rate 48 kHz.

Conclusion: The Behringer UCA222 is an excellent option as an inexpensive replacement for a broken laptop or PC component, while having very good characteristics and functionality for recording audio in good quality.

Creative Sound BlasterX G6

Price: about 13,600 rubles.

The Sound BlasterX G6 is what every gamer needs. This external ZK has incredible performance and is simply created for games (this is also confirmed by the device's support for PlayStation, Nintendo Switch and Xbox game consoles, as well as smartphones and PCs). The main feature of this card is excellent sound on any supported device, and yes, it is much better than that from integrated cards. It is also worth noting that, despite the gaming focus, the new Creative model is perfect for listening to music or watching movies.

In short, everything about the sound in this card is ideal or close to this value. But this is understandable for the price, but what will definitely surprise and delight gamers is the activation of the Scout Mode (or amplification of quiet sounds) using a special button. Also in a special application, users will be able not only to "rummage" in the map settings, but also to select preset settings for the most popular genres and even games. In general, the card has absorbed everything that gamers need so much and demonstrates this in all its glory.

The device has a fairly compact dimensions 111 x 70 x 24 mm and a weight of 144 grams. By the way, if you remember the above points, what should be the ZK for games, then you can find the value of the resistance for headphones from 250 ohms. The Sound BlasterX G6 boasts an impedance range of 16 to 600 ohms, which speaks for itself.

Features and characteristics: connected via USB 2.0 / 3.0, no need for an additional power source (powered by a computer), connectors: 3 x 3.5 mm jack, 1 x microphone input; support: ASIO: v. 2.0, playback quality 32 bit / 384 kHz (maximum), recording quality 24 bit / 192 kHz (maximum), signal-to-noise ratio ~ 114dB.

And finally, I would like to remind once again about the mass of preset modes for every taste and, of course, about the presence of 7.1 sound.

• Excellent quality for games (high surround sound, precise positioning);
• Very useful software;
• Software control buttons are placed on the body;
• Nice appearance;
• Versatility;
• Sampling rate 384 kHz;
• Many useful modes and functions;
• Compact enough.

• Not very convenient location of the volume control;
• Heats up;
• Case material - plastic, there are backlashes;
• Connection errors (if you cannot connect using an optical cable, you should try an audio cable);
• The software is designed for Windows.

Conclusion: With all its shortcomings and an impressive price, the Creative Sound BlasterX G6 still remains one of the best offers on the market in its segment, since the advantages of the device are more significant for the owners and overcome the disadvantages.

Steinberg UR242

Price: about 15,500 rubles.

Another great sound card, however, designed for work in the studio, that is, for professional use as intended.There is a lot to say about Steinberg UR242, but it should be understood that this device is intended for recording / listening to a wide variety of musical instruments and vocals. For those who doubt the quality of a well-known brand, Steinberg is the creator of Cubase, one of the most popular recording software. So, if the goal is to create a home studio, acquire quality equipment and still not spend too much, the UR242 is the perfect option.

It is worth mentioning right away that the model reproduces sound well, but it was created not for entertainment, but for work. Therefore, it should only be purchased by those who plan to record at home on a professional level. Fortunately, the ZK has all the makings for this, from a variety of inputs / outputs for monitors (XLR and Jack), microphone, TRS instruments and ending with powerful amplifiers.

Features and characteristics: connects to the network (external power supply) and consumes 5 W, connectors: 4 x jack 6.35 mm, 2 x XLR, 1 x MIDI 1, 1 x headphone output; support: ASIO: v. 2.0, playback quality 24bit / 192 kHz (maximum), recording quality 24bit / 192 kHz (maximum), S / N ~ 104dB.

Finally, I would like to highlight the amazing functionality of the Steinberg UR242, which allows you to professionally work with any instrument. It is also worth highlighting the excellent sound in the headphones - there are simply no extraneous sounds. Compatibility is also good, because the card supports MacOS and Windows (including connection to iPod / iPhone). True, you have to pay for everything and we are not talking about energy consumption at all - the dimensions of the case are 198x159x47 mm and weighs 1.3 kg, which is much larger than the previous models.

• Great clear sound without noise;
• Appropriate value (price / quality);
• MacOS and Windows support;
• High quality components;
• Lots of connectors;
• Ideal for home studio recording;
• The kit usually includes a licensed version of Cubase.

• Decent size;
• Maximum volume at low level;
• There are problems with the drivers (not critical, if desired, everything is fixed rather quickly);
• Not the best mic preamp;
• No DSP.

Conclusion: Many musicians around the world and just people who are fond of music claim that Steinberg UR242 is one of the best solutions for a home studio due to its low (As for this class) price and an amazing set of characteristics.

RME Fireface UCX

Price: about 92,000 rubles.

And finally, the absolute leader among external sound cards is undoubtedly the RME Fireface UCX. A lot has been said about this card, and users position it as a high-end studio equipment with unlimited possibilities and the purest sound.

In short, the Fireface UCX is not for everyone. And it's not about the amazing characteristics, the presence of eight connectors, various connection options (USB and FireWire) and incredibly functional, albeit a little outdated, at first glance, software (Total Mix FX). No, the problem is that in order to get started, the owner will first have to spend a lot of time studying the manual, because the card's capabilities are enormous. It should be said right away that a beginner is likely to get confused even with the instructions, while for professionals everything will be very clear - everything is as it should be with high-quality equipment.

By the way, it should be noted that, first of all, the RME Fireface UCX is good for recording vocals from a microphone and the sound here turns out to be really "studio".

Features and characteristics: connects to the network (external power supply, connectors: 8 x jack 6.35 mm, 2 x XLR, 1 x MIDI 1, 1 x headphone output, Hi-Z; support: ASIO: v. 2.0, ADAT, AES / EBU, playback quality 24bit / 192 kHz (maximum), recording quality 24bit / 192 kHz (maximum), signal / noise ~ 114dB.

Other features include incredibly stable operation without glitches, an amazing frequency range from 8 - 20400 Hz, a lot of settings and, of course, the presence of all the necessary functions.

• The purest sound;
• A huge set of possibilities - the main thing is to understand them;
• Stability of work at height;
• Works with iPad;
• Work without a computer;
• Adjusting each parameter in Total Mix FX;
• Lots of connectors;
• Ideal for recording vocals.

• Price (it cannot be said that it is too high for this level, but a little expensive);
• It is difficult to understand the settings (the instructions in the kit are almost useless, for all the information you need to go to Total Mix FX.);
• Convenience of hardware settings (setting is done with one potentiometer knob, however, you can always buy a remote control and the problem will be solved).

Conclusion: RME Fireface UCX is a professional equipment, for those who know what they want and are ready to put not only money into it, but also their own time and efforts, because without them it is very difficult to deal with the device.

Model	Connection type	Connectors	Support	Quality / noise	approximate price
Creative Sound Blaster Play! 3	USB 2.0	1 x jack 3.5 mm, 1 x microphone input	EAX: v. five	24bit / 96.0kHz playback, 24bit / 48.0kHz recording, signal / noise ~ 93dB	2200 rubles
Behringer UCA222	USB 2.0	3 x jack 3.5 mm, 1 x microphone input	ASIO: v. 2.0	16bit / 48.0kHz playback / recording, signal / noise ~ 89dB	2450 rubles
Creative Sound BlasterX G6	USB 2.0 / 3.0	3 x jack 3.5 mm, 1 x microphone input	ASIO: v. 2.0	32bit / 384 kHz playback, 24bit / 192 kHz recording, S / N ~ 114dB	13600 rubles
Steinberg UR242	To the network	4 x jack 6.35 mm, 2 x XLR, 1 x MIDI 1, 1 x headphone output	ASIO: v. 2.0	24bit / 192 kHz playback / recording, signal / noise ~ 104dB	15500 rubles
RME Fireface UCX	To the network	8 x jack 6.35 mm, 2 x XLR, 1 x MIDI 1, 1 x headphone output, Hi-Z	ASIO: v. 2.0, ADAT, AES / EBU	24bit / 192 kHz playback / recording, signal / noise ~ 114dB	92,000 rubles

Internal ZK

Internal cards are distinguished by the absence of the need for an additional power source and by the design itself (they are installed in the PC case). Such models are more suitable for gamers and music fans, and more rarely for an entry-level home studio. Today world manufacturers are ready to provide a lot of possible solutions and, what is most interesting, for a completely objective cost.

Asus Xonar DG

Price: about 2500 rubles.

What about Asus? This is undoubtedly a top manufacturer of PC components, however, in the field of sound cards, their achievements are still lower than in video cards or motherboards. Nevertheless, the company does not claim to be the best manufacturer in this segment, it just makes high-quality and relatively inexpensive mid-range and entry-class models. Therefore, all fans of the brand (and indeed everyone who is looking for an inexpensive ZK for games) should pay attention to the entire Xonar line - there are many worthy options with a variety of characteristics (gamers should consider, and DG is chosen as the most optimal (also relevant for Creative Sound Blaster series).

Despite the good reviews on the net, the gain in sound quality from the Asus Xonar DG will not be too great compared to the latest expensive motherboards. However, for most users, the result will still be noticeable (if only because of the 5.1 sound, which is implemented really well).

Of course, watching movies and playing with such a ZK will be quite comfortable, but for recording and working with sounds, it is not suitable (unless it is very primitive), despite the many settings and useful things.

By the way about the settings. Oddly enough, but it is this point that often displeases users - there are too many of them and for the most part they are useless. Yes, they know how to do high-quality things, but with branded applications they often have "incidents" from glitches to problems with drivers. However, all this can be solved and ultimately does not affect the performance of the card.

Features and characteristics: connected via PCI, no additional power supply is needed (powered by a computer), connectors: 3 x 3.5 mm jack, 1 x microphone input and 1 x headphones; support: EAX: v. 2, ASIO v. 2.0 and DirectSound 3D, DirectSound, A3D, OpenAL, playback quality 24bit / 96.0kHz (maximum), recording quality 24bit / 192kHz (maximum), signal / noise ratio ~ 124 dB.

• Ideal for games (the immersion effect is also present in games with shootings and explosions, everything is fine, the main thing is not to find fault with the sound quality when listening to music);
• Great price;
• Good headphone amplifier (owners recommend using "ears" with impedance up to 64 ohms);
• Supports ASIO (not to say that it would be too significant a plus, it just allows you to do without using proprietary software that does not work very stable);
• Many settings (often useless);
• Versatility;
• The headphone jack is located at the front (this arrangement is quite rare, although the option is very convenient).

• Software problems;
• Glitches after updating drivers (not very common);
• Not suitable for sound recording and audio work.

Conclusion: The Asus Xonar DG is a great option for gamers and people who want good surround sound, a reliable device, and besides, it's also quite cheap.

Creative Sound Blaster Z

Price: about 6750 rubles.

Another budget representative of Creative on the world market, which has proven itself as an affordable and most importantly universal sound card. Among the advantages, one can single out a noticeable difference in quality with integrated options, as well as fairly stable operation. At a low price, it is good for both games and music, it supports 5.1 sound.

But there is one strange feature - good audio processing occurs only through the 3.5 mm jack located in the middle. The quality of the DAC in other areas leaves much to be desired. Therefore, for maximum effect, it is recommended to connect the main speakers and headphones to the middle jack, and preferably in the Direct Sound operating system bypass mode (the amount of distortion is reduced).

Rather flexible settings and functionality of the device deserve special attention. Please note that in headphones, due to the weak amplifier, the sound may seem lightweight.

Features and characteristics: connected via PCI-E, no need for an additional power supply (powered by a computer), connectors: 4 x 3.5 mm jack, 1 x microphone input; support: EAX: v. 5, ASIO v. 2.0, playback quality 24bit / 192.0kHz (maximum), recording quality 24bit / 192kHz (maximum), signal-to-noise ratio ~ 116 dB.

• Nice price;
• Good 5.1 sound;
• Well suited for active games;
• Separate microphone;
• Flexible settings;
• Modern design (not very important for the internal map, but nice);
• Modern software.

• Lightweight sounding (not critical);
• The indicators cannot be turned off (it is difficult to call it a minus, but some are annoying and distracting);
• Sound may stutter after hibernation.

Conclusion: When assembling a gaming PC, there is a need to think about a high-quality sound card, because this will not only help you better immerse yourself in the virtual world, but also more effectively counteract rivals. And the price tags for Creative's products have recently been very democratic.

Asus Xonar Essence STX 2

Price: 18,500 rubles.

Another interesting model from Asus, but this time already designed for working with sound. Of the features, it is worth highlighting the separate processing of ports (both analog and digital), which ensures the purity of sound and the absence of interference.

Also inside this "machine" there are components from leading world brands (Musen, Wima), which ensures not only excellent sound quality, but also the durability of the device. On the plus side is the sampling rate, which is high up to 192 kHz. By the way, the card contraction is repairable, so the operational amplifiers can be replaced without unsoldering.

There were no problems with compatibility either, since this ZK can be connected to any motherboard with PCI-E (slots x1-x16). And finally, on the pleasant: headphones with an impedance of up to 600 ohms are supported, and the dynamic range indicator allows you to distinguish a wide variety of sounds, be it quiet beats or musical instruments.

Features and characteristics: it is connected via PCI-E, no additional power supply is needed (powered by a computer), connectors: 1 x 6.3 mm jack, 1 x microphone input and 2 x headphones (RCA connectors); support: EAX: v. 2, ASIO v. 2.0, OpenAL, playback quality 24bit / 192.0kHz (maximum), recording quality 24bit / 192kHz (maximum), signal-to-noise ratio ~ 124 dB.

• Great sound;
• Compatibility;
• High sampling rate;
• Support for all operating systems developed by Microsoft;
• High quality components;
• Separate port handling;
• Versatility;
• Appearance;
• RCA connectors;
• Sounds are perfectly distinguishable, and even the weakest defects (if any);
• Work with headphones with high impedance (up to 600 ohms);
• Possibility of replacing operational amplifiers without unsoldering.

• Software problems;
• Doesn't support multi-channel audio;
• ASIO support is poor;
• Overpriced;
• Glitches after updating drivers (not very common).

Conclusion: Asus Xonar Essence STX 2 can be called a truly versatile ZK, because it has excellent characteristics that allow it to produce good sound in any situation.

Model	Connection type	Connectors	Support	Quality / noise	approximate price
Asus Xonar DG	PCI	3 x jack 3.5 mm, 1 x microphone input and 1 x headphones	EAX: v. 2, ASIO v. 2.0 and DirectSound 3D, DirectSound, A3D, OpenAL	24bit / 96.0kHz playback, 24bit / 192kHz recording, signal / noise ~ 124 dB	2500 rubles
Creative Sound Blaster Z	PCI-E	4 x jack 3.5 mm, 1 x microphone input	EAX: v. 5, ASIO v. 2.0	24bit / 192.0kHz playback / recording, signal / noise ~ 116 dB	6750 rubles
Asus Xonar Essence STX 2	PCI-E	1 x jack 6.3 mm, 1 x microphone input and 2 x headphones (RCA connectors)	EAX: v. 2, ASIO v. 2.0, OpenAL	24bit / 192.0kHz playback / recording, ~ 124 dB	18,500 rubles

Conclusion

Based on the review of the best sound cards in 2020, one can make an input that the market is ready to provide the buyer with a variety of options, different not only in price, but also in capabilities. Users can easily find a suitable model, because each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages, and is also designed for completely different purposes.

So, the Creative Sound Blaster Play is an ideal option for replacing a broken integrated sound system or just for those who like to listen to music in good quality from time to time! 3 for easy transportation and driver-free use. For those who have decided to get serious about music and create a home studio, the Steinberg UR242 is ideal - despite its price, it really is worth the money. But gamers will definitely love the Asus Xonar DG. And first of all, it is the price, because this is a great chance to get high-quality five-channel sound for less than $ 40 (by the way, gamers should think carefully, because modern continents, as it was written above, also have good indicators, it may make sense to report money and buy a new board ). And finally, the Asus Xonar Essence STX will become indispensable for music lovers and those who like to work with audio. Reliable components, highly detailed sound and many useful features make it very attractive, and only the price can scare off.

A good sound card can give the owner a lot of new possibilities and an unforgettable experience from watching your favorite movies, games or music. But for those for whom music is a job, you should take the purchase very seriously, because a correctly chosen ZK will help not only save nerves and strength and help create new works.