MSI sells both monitors with built-in speakers and models without them. Some office and all-in-one-style screens include small stereo drivers, but many high-refresh gaming panels skip speakers entirely. When speakers are present expect low power output and limited bass; they handle voice calls and system sounds, not serious music or movies.
Short, clear answer
Yes — but not always. MSI includes internal speakers on select models, typically entry-level or business-class displays. Competitive esports and high-refresh rate monitors often ship without onboard audio to save space and prioritize panel speed.
Typical built-in speaker specs run about 2W–5W total. That delivers usable volume for voice and casual clips, but it produces thin mids and almost no bass. Treat onboard audio as functional, not impressive.
How to quickly verify audio capability on any MSI monitor product page
Check the spec sheet for a clear “Speakers” line item. If it lists a wattage or “2 x 2W” or “2 x 3W,” the monitor has internal drivers. If there’s no speaker line, assume none.
Look for these keywords on the product page and in images: “Speakers”, “Audio out” or “Headphone jack”, and mentions of HDMI/DisplayPort or USB-C audio. Rear I/O photos often show a 3.5mm jack when audio hardware exists.
Open the downloads/support tab and read the user manual. Manuals list OSD audio controls, jack placement, and exact wattage. If the FAQ explicitly states “no speakers,” believe it.
Why many MSI gaming monitors skip or include modest onboard speakers
Design trade-offs drive the choice. Slim bezels and thin chassis leave little depth for decent drivers. MSI prioritizes refresh rates, panel response and thermal headroom for esports gear, so acoustics get low priority.
Cost also matters. Adding larger, better speakers raises BOM cost and weight, which harms competitive market positioning. MSI frequently reserves small drivers for office or mainstream models that target convenience over audio fidelity.
Marketing patterns are clear: Pro and office lines tend to include simple speakers; flagship esports panels are often speakerless or carry tiny, low-power units.
Typical built-in speaker performance on MSI screens — what to realistically expect
Sound character is predictable: thin mids, weak bass, and narrow stereo imaging. Expect clarity for speech at low volumes and little to no punch for bass-dependent content.
Check these metrics when available: total wattage, number of channels (mono vs stereo), and any published frequency response. Most manufacturers omit full frequency curves; use user reviews and short demos to assess perceived loudness and bass presence.
Audio input/output options on MSI monitors and how they affect sound routing
HDMI and DisplayPort carry digital audio to the monitor. If the monitor has a 3.5mm audio-out, it can play that audio through its internal speakers or pass it to external speakers/headphones attached to the monitor.
USB-C with DisplayPort Alt Mode can also deliver audio. Check the spec sheet to confirm USB-C audio support. Bluetooth is rare on MSI displays; don’t count on wireless audio being built-in.
Step-by-step: enable and test built-in speakers on Windows, macOS and consoles
Windows: Connect HDMI/DP/USB-C. Right-click the speaker icon → Open Sound settings → Select the monitor as the output device. Set volume in Windows and then set the monitor OSD volume to 50–75% to start. Play a test audio file and adjust.
macOS: Connect via HDMI or USB-C. Open System Settings → Sound → Output and choose the monitor. Confirm the monitor OSD volume and unmute both the Mac and the monitor. Use a music clip or YouTube for an audible test.
PlayStation/Xbox/Switch: Use HDMI. For consoles, set HDMI audio output in the console settings. Increase the monitor’s OSD volume. If sound is absent, ensure the console’s audio output is set to HDMI and not optical or USB.
Troubleshooting: common reasons an MSI monitor shows no sound and how to fix them
Bad cable or wrong adapter: Some passive adapters or low-quality cables strip audio. Swap the HDMI/DP cable with a known-good cable or use a cable certified for audio/video.
Wrong input or muted OSD: Confirm the monitor is on the same input the computer/console uses. Open the monitor OSD and check that the speaker isn’t muted and the volume is above zero.
OS playback device mismatch: The operating system may still output to the laptop speakers or a USB headset. Set the monitor as the default playback device in the OS sound settings.
Driver and firmware issues: Update GPU and audio drivers. If the monitor has firmware updates, install them per MSI’s support page. Firmware can fix audio routing bugs.
Hardware limitations: If the monitor lacks speakers, no software change will create sound. Verify the spec sheet or manual before spending time troubleshooting.
When built-in speakers are enough — practical use-cases and realistic expectations
Built-in speakers are fine for video calls, voice chats, system alerts, and casual tutorial videos at low volume. They serve as a handy backup or emergency solution.
They’re not enough for music with bass, cinematic movie audio, or immersive gaming where positional cues and low-end impact matter. For those, plan external audio.
Best external audio upgrades for MSI monitor users
Budget desktop speakers: Compact 2.0 or 2.1 sets provide clear mids and actual bass. Look for active speakers with a separate subwoofer for richer low end without a big footprint.
Compact soundbars: A monitor-mounted soundbar saves desk space and improves dialogue clarity and loudness. Choose a model compatible with VESA or with adhesive/mounting options matching your monitor width.
Headsets and DACs: For competitive gaming choose a low-latency wired headset. For music, pair quality headphones with a USB DAC or portable amp to bypass weak monitor audio and gain better fidelity.
Buying checklist: what to prioritize on an MSI monitor if clean audio matters to you
Must-have flags: explicit “Built-in speakers” with listed wattage, a 3.5mm audio-out/headphone jack, or USB-C audio support. These items let you use or route audio via the monitor.
Secondary checks: VESA compatibility for attaching a soundbar, OSD volume and EQ options, and real-world reviews that mention loudness and clarity. If possible, test sound in store or buy from a retailer with a good return policy.
Quick comparison: onboard MSI speakers vs external speakers/soundbar/headset — pick by use-case
Gaming: Choose a wired headset or decent desktop speakers for low latency and positional accuracy. Built-in speakers rarely meet competitive needs.
Movies and music: External speakers or a soundbar win every time for fuller bass and better soundstage. Built-in drivers can’t reproduce deep lows or immersive surround cues.
Office and casual use: Built-in speakers are often acceptable for meetings and voice calls. Verify volume and clarity from reviews if you rely on them.
Action plan: deciding and next steps after you check an MSI monitor listing
If specs are unclear, download the manual or ask MSI support for explicit confirmation about speakers and wattage. Don’t assume a monitor has speakers without a spec entry.
If you need better sound, shortlist external options that match your desk width and inputs: a small 2.1 desktop speaker set, a slim monitor soundbar, or a headset with a USB or 3.5mm connection. Prioritize inputs that the monitor provides to avoid extra adapters.
Buy from a retailer with a return window or test sound in person. That ensures you can swap if the onboard audio or chosen accessory fails to meet your expectations.
