Consider this breakdown of the Sonos Roam 2, as audio specialists offer their candid opinion and comparison to other portable speakers in the market before you decide on that deal.
In the ever-growing market of portable Bluetooth speakers, the Sonos Roam 2 stands out as a compact, smart, and versatile option. This latest offering from Sonos, a company renowned for its multi-room speakers, brings a unique blend of features that cater to a wide range of audio needs.
The Sonos Roam 2 boasts a prism shape that sets it apart from competitors like JBL and Bose. At just 168 x 62 x 60mm and 430g, it's the smallest speaker in the Sonos line-up, making it a perfect companion for travel or on-the-go use. Despite its compact size, the Sonos Roam 2 offers great overall audio performance, with clear and detailed vocals, decent bass, and a wide soundstage.
One of the key advantages of the Sonos Roam 2 is its seamless integration with existing Sonos systems. It supports over 100 music services and enables multi-room audio, allowing users to enjoy music throughout their homes with ease. The speaker also supports AirPlay 2, making it a great choice for Apple users.
In terms of smart features, the Sonos Roam 2 offers Alexa and Sonos Voice Control when connected to Wi-Fi, as well as unique features like Sound Swap. This allows users to effortlessly hand off music from one Sonos speaker to another.
However, the Sonos Roam 2's battery life is slightly less than some competitors, with a maximum of 10 hours. This is shorter than the Bose SoundLink Flex and JBL Charge 6, which offer 12 and 28 hours respectively. The speaker can be charged via USB-C, and a wireless charging dock is available separately.
The Sonos Roam 2 uses Bluetooth 5.2 for connectivity and maintains the same sound architecture as the original Roam. It comes in five colours: Black, Sunset, Wave, Olive, and White. The speaker is rugged and waterproof, but it does not float and does not come with accessories or included handles for carrying.
Comparatively, the Bose SoundLink Flex is favoured by audio purists seeking detailed, high-fidelity sound and rugged portability. It lacks smart features and ecosystem perks but offers better battery life than the Roam 2. The JBL Charge 6, on the other hand, excels in battery life (up to 28 hours), volume, and bass response, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings. However, it lacks smart features and ecosystem integration.
In conclusion, the Sonos Roam 2 is an excellent choice for users already in the Sonos ecosystem, those who value smart features, multi-room audio, and a premium design. However, its battery life and price are drawbacks compared to the Bose SoundLink Flex and JBL Charge 6, which offer better longevity and volume at lower or similar price points. If you want a simple, powerful, long-lasting portable speaker, the JBL Charge 6 or Bose SoundLink Flex may be better suited to your needs, while the Roam 2 shines in connected, smart-home contexts.
- The Sonos Roam 2's prism shape and compact size make it a fashionable addition to any modern home-and-garden or living room, enhancing the overall lifestyle with its sleek design.
- The Sonos Roam 2's integration with various gadgets like smartphones and technology, such as Alexa and Sonos Voice Control, cater to today's tech-savvy lifestyle, allowing users to personalize their music experience.
- While shopping for items to enrich living room decor, art enthusiasts will also appreciate the Sonos Roam 2's color options, corresponding with popular hues in contemporary art.
- For those looking to upgrade their home-and-garden sound system and immerse themselves in music throughout their living spaces, the Sonos Roam 2's multi-room audio capabilities are a perfect choice.
- Despite its impressive lineup of features, the Sonos Roam 2's premium price tag may be a barrier for some individuals seeking portable Bluetooth speakers, as they shop for accessories and explore options from other home-and-garden brands offering comparable performance at lower price points.
