Powered speakers, also known as active speakers, have a built-in amplifier and do not require an external amplifier or receiver to power them. They can be connected directly to a sound source, such as a computer or a mobile device, and are generally more compact and easier to set up than passive speakers.
Unpowered speakers, also known as passive speakers, do not have a built-in amplifier and require an external amplifier or receiver to power them. They are generally larger and more complex to set up than powered speakers, as they require additional wiring and setup to connect them to an amplifier.