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Quick answer: Both are active Bluetooth 5.0 bookshelf speakers with a subwoofer output. The R1280DBs lists 42W RMS and optical and coaxial inputs at about $160; the R1700BTs lists 66W RMS and aptX HD at about $200.
This comparison is built from the product listings on Amazon and manufacturer information, not our own testing. Prices were as listed on Amazon.com on October 30, 2026, converted where needed, and change. Confirm details on the product pages.
By the Reviewstook Editorial Team. Last updated: October 31, 2026.
At a Glance
| Feature | R1280DBs | R1700BTs |
|---|---|---|
| What the listing says | Active Bluetooth bookshelf speakers with Bluetooth 5.0, optical and coaxial inputs, a subwoofer output and 42 W RMS. | Active Bluetooth 5.0 bookshelf speakers with aptX HD, a subwoofer output and 66 W RMS. |
| Approximate price (Oct 30, 2026) | About $160 | About $200 |
| Best for | TV, PC and music setups | Music listening in a living room |
| Strengths | Many inputs and a sub out | AptX HD and strong power |
| Weaknesses | Large for a small desk | A higher price |
Key Differences
Power
The R1700BTs lists 66W RMS against 42W for the R1280DBs. More power gives more headroom for a bigger room or louder listening. In a small room the difference matters less.
Bluetooth quality
The R1700BTs lists aptX HD, which supports higher-quality streaming when your phone also supports it.
Inputs
The R1280DBs lists optical and coaxial inputs, useful for a TV or PC. The R1700BTs listing in our summary does not list digital inputs, so check which inputs it has.
Price
The R1700BTs cost about $40 more.
Strengths and Weaknesses in Detail
R1280DBs
Best for tV, PC and music setups. Its main strengths, per the listing, are many inputs and a sub out. The main weakness we found is large for a small desk.
R1700BTs
Best for music listening in a living room. Its main strengths, per the listing, are aptX HD and strong power. The main weakness we found is a higher price.
Who Should Skip Each
- Skip the R1280DBs if you want a tiny speaker.
- Skip the R1700BTs if you want the cheapest option.
How to Decide Between Them
List the devices you will connect and check the inputs, then measure the space. Power and size should match your room: a small desk rarely needs a large speaker. If you want deeper bass, check for a subwoofer output or a separate sub, and use the best wired input available instead of relying on Bluetooth for TV.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the R1280DBs if
you want digital inputs for a TV or PC and a lower price.
Choose the R1700BTs if
you want more power and aptX HD for music listening.
Before You Buy
- Check the inputs against your devices.
- Measure the space for the speakers or bar.
- Check the power and size for your room.
- Check the return window and warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, the R1280DBs or the R1700BTs?
In the listings we checked, the R1280DBs was the cheaper one at about $160, against about $200 for the R1700BTs. Prices change, so confirm on Amazon.
Can I add a subwoofer?
Both list a subwoofer output, so you can add a powered subwoofer later.
Can I return it if it does not suit me?
Check the return window and the seller on the Amazon page before you buy, and keep the packaging while you test.
Bottom Line
Choose the R1280DBs if you want digital inputs for a TV or PC and a lower price. Choose the R1700BTs if you want more power and aptX HD for music listening. Treat this as a way to narrow your choice, then confirm the details that matter to you on the product pages.
