Sonos Era 100 Review

Summary / TL;DR

The Sonos Era 100 aims to stand out in the crowded market of mobile speakers with its high-quality sound, sleek design, and advanced features. Its minimalist look and premium build quality make it a stylish addition to any modern home, though the matte finish can attract fingerprints. The speaker delivers rich, full-bodied sound with clear highs, balanced mids, and punchy bass, making it suitable for medium-sized rooms. However, it may not project as well in larger spaces, and there's minor distortion at maximum volume.

Connectivity options are robust, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Apple AirPlay 2, but it lacks an auxiliary input and aptX codec support. Smart features like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant integration, along with multi-room audio capabilities, add convenience, although it doesn't support every voice assistant. The speaker is designed for stationary use, as it lacks a built-in battery, making it less ideal for on-the-go activities.

Priced in the mid-range, the Sonos Era 100 offers good value for its high-quality sound, durability, and smart features. While not the most portable, it excels in a home or office setting. Overall, it’s a solid choice for those willing to invest in a versatile and well-built speaker.

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Introduction

In a world teeming with mobile speakers, finding the perfect one often feels like searching for a needle in a haystack. Enter the Sonos Era 100, a game-changer designed to elevate your listening experience. This little dynamo promises to deliver high-quality sound, sleek design, and cutting-edge features. But does it live up to the hype? Mobile speakers are more than just gadgets; they're companions for every adventure, from beach outings to backyard barbecues. You need a speaker that's not only powerful but also portable and durable. Sonos has a reputation for creating top-notch audio products, so expectations are naturally high for this new addition to their lineup. However, even the best products have their quirks. While the Sonos Era 100 aims to check all the boxes, it's essential to weigh its pros against any potential drawbacks. Whether you're an audiophile or just someone who loves good tunes, this review will help you figure out if this speaker is worth your hard-earned cash. Ready to dive in? Let's get started!

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Design and Build Quality

The design and build quality of the Sonos Era 100 are top-notch and super sleek. It features a minimalist look that blends well with modern home decor. The exterior has a smooth matte finish that's both stylish and durable. The rounded edges give it a more friendly and approachable vibe, which is a nice touch.

Build quality is another area where this speaker shines. It's made from premium materials that feel solid and well-constructed, so you know it's built to last. The buttons on the top are tactile and responsive, making it easy to control the volume or skip tracks without any hassle. The touch-sensitive controls are intuitive and don’t require a tech degree to figure out.

Size-wise, it’s compact enough to fit on a bookshelf or a kitchen counter without taking up too much real estate. But don’t let its small size fool you. This little speaker packs a punch.

On the downside, the matte finish, while looking great, tends to attract fingerprints. You might find yourself giving it a quick wipe-down more often than you'd like. Also, while it's generally sturdy, it doesn’t have any specific water or dust resistance ratings, so you might want to keep it away from the pool or the beach.

Overall, it’s clear that a lot of thought went into the design and build quality of this speaker. It’s not just about looking good but also about feeling good in your hands and blending seamlessly into your everyday life.

Audio Performance

Let’s talk about what really matters: the audio performance. The sound quality on the Sonos Era 100 is like having a concert in your living room. It's got this rich, full-bodied sound that fills the entire space. Does it blow your mind? Pretty much. The highs are crystal clear without being too harsh, and the mids are warm and balanced. You won’t miss a beat or a lyric, that’s for sure.

The bass? Oh man, the bass. It’s punchy but not overwhelming. It hits that sweet spot where it's deep enough to feel but not so boomy that it drowns everything else out. If you’re a bass-head, you might want a subwoofer to pair, but for most people, the built-in bass does the job wonderfully.

One thing to keep in mind is that while the speaker is powerful, it’s best suited for medium-sized rooms. In a massive space, you might notice it doesn’t quite project as far as you'd like. But hey, for most living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms, it’s more than enough.

Interestingly, this bad boy supports Trueplay tuning, which is a fancy way of saying it adapts the sound based on your room's acoustics. So, whether you put it on a shelf or a counter, it adjusts itself to make sure you're getting the best sound possible. Pretty neat, right?

One minor note: at max volume, there's a tiny bit of distortion. It's not a deal-breaker, but if you like to crank it up to 11, you might notice it. Overall, though, the sound quality is top-notch and will make your playlists, podcasts, and movies sound fantastic.

Connectivity and Compatibility

Let's talk about how this speaker connects and works with other devices. The Sonos Era 100 is pretty flexible when it comes to connectivity. First off, it supports Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music directly from your favorite apps without having to mess with cables. Plus, if you’ve got a fast and stable Wi-Fi connection, you’re golden.

Not a fan of Wi-Fi? No worries. This speaker also has Bluetooth support. Whether you’re playing tunes from your phone, tablet, or laptop, connecting is a breeze. It’s as simple as pairing any other Bluetooth device.

Another cool feature is the Apple AirPlay 2 support. If you’re an Apple user, you can easily stream audio from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. It’s pretty seamless, almost like magic. Plus, if you’re into the smart home ecosystem, it plays nice with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. So, you can control your music with just your voice – how cool is that?

However, it doesn't come with an auxiliary input, which might be a dealbreaker if you like to connect older devices or prefer using a wired connection. It's also worth noting that it lacks support for aptX codec for Bluetooth. So if you’re an audio purist, you might notice a difference in sound quality.

In terms of compatibility, this speaker is pretty inclusive. It works with a wide range of streaming services, from Spotify and Apple Music to more niche options like Tidal and Deezer. No matter what your music source is, it’s likely covered.

Overall, the connectivity options are solid, but if you’re looking for wired connections, you might be left wanting more. Still, for most people, the wireless options are more than enough to keep the music going.

Smart Features and Integration

If you're into smart tech, this speaker has got you covered. It comes with built-in support for both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. So, you can control your music, check the weather, or even manage your smart home devices with just your voice. How cool is that?

Not only that, but it also works seamlessly with Apple’s AirPlay 2. This means you can easily stream music from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. No fuss, no muss. If you’ve got a diverse mix of devices at home, this feature is a lifesaver.

On the downside, it doesn't support every voice assistant out there. For example, if you’re a fan of Siri, you might feel a bit left out. And while it does play nice with most smart home ecosystems, it might not integrate as deeply as some more specialized devices.

Another neat feature is its ability to link up with other speakers to create a multi-room audio setup. Imagine walking through your house and hearing the same song playing in perfect sync in every room. You can even pair two of these speakers together for a richer stereo sound experience.

Overall, the smart features and integrations are pretty solid. Even though it might not check every single smart box, it hits most of the important ones and does it with style.

Battery Life and Portability

Alright, let's talk about battery life and portability. While many mobile speakers are designed to be thrown in a backpack and taken everywhere, this one is a bit different. It doesn't have a built-in battery, which means it's not exactly the best choice for those beach days or picnics in the park. If you're looking for something that's truly portable, you might need to look elsewhere.

Despite its lack of battery, this speaker shines in a home or office setting. Its compact size makes it easy to move from room to room. Think of it as more of a "pick up and go" around the house type of deal. It's not bulky, so it won't take up much space on your shelf or desk. You can effortlessly carry it from your living room to your bedroom or kitchen without breaking a sweat.

But remember, since there's no battery, you'll always need to have it plugged in. For some, this might be a deal-breaker. However, if you're primarily looking for a stationary speaker that you can occasionally relocate, this one fits the bill perfectly. Just don't expect to take it on your next hiking trip!

Overall, while the lack of a built-in battery might be a downside for some, the ease of moving it within your home and its sleek design make up for it. So, if you're cool with keeping it plugged in and moving it around your house, then this speaker is still a solid choice.

What's in the Box

Alright, let's talk about what's inside the box when you get your hands on the Sonos Era 100. First off, you’ll find the mobile speaker itself, which is the star of the show. It’s securely packed to prevent any damage during shipping. Alongside the speaker, there's a power cable that’s pretty standard but gets the job done. It’s about 6 feet long, giving you some flexibility in placement. Then there's some documentation. You’ll find a quick start guide that’s straightforward and easy to follow, along with a warranty information booklet. These might not be the most exciting parts, but they’re definitely useful, especially if you're new to Sonos products. Here's what you get in a nutshell:

• Sonos Era 100 mobile speaker
• Power cable
• Quick start guide
• Warranty information

One thing to note, though, is if you’re looking for extra accessories like a carrying case or a wall mount, you’ll need to purchase those separately. Some users might find this a bit inconvenient, especially if you're hoping for an all-in-one package right out of the box. So, while the basic necessities are covered, if you want to pimp out your setup, be prepared to spend a little extra.

User Experience

The user experience with the Sonos Era 100 is, for the most part, pretty seamless and enjoyable. From the moment you unbox it, setting it up is a breeze. The Sonos app guides you through the process in a few hassle-free steps. You don't need to be a tech whiz to get it up and running. The controls on the speaker are intuitive and responsive. There's a touch-sensitive interface on the top, letting you adjust the volume, play/pause music, and skip tracks with simple gestures. It's a bit like swiping on your smartphone, making it super familiar and easy to use. Once you've got your tunes playing, the real magic starts. The sound quality is impressive, and navigating through your music library or switching between services is pretty straightforward.

However, it's worth noting that the Sonos app can sometimes feel a bit clunky. It's packed with features, but this can make it a bit overwhelming for first-time users. A little persistence, and you'll get the hang of it. Voice control is another big plus. The integration with Alexa and Google Assistant works smoothly. Just say the word, and your virtual assistant takes care of the rest. Yet, if you're not into voice commands, there's no pressure to use them. On the downside, if you’re planning to move the speaker around a lot, it might not be the most portable option. While it’s not overly heavy, it’s not as lightweight as some other mobile speakers on the market. Overall, the Sonos Era 100 delivers an engaging and user-friendly experience. There are a few minor hiccups, but nothing that detracts majorly from its overall performance and ease of use.

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Price and Value for Money

Alright, let's talk about the price and value for money of this speaker. The Sonos Era 100 is definitely not the cheapest option out there, but it's also far from the priciest. It sits in a comfortable middle-ground, offering a solid balance between cost and features.

For the price, you get a speaker that's incredibly well-built and packed with advanced features. The audio quality is top-notch, and it's got a range of connectivity options that can meet most needs. Not to mention, the smart features and voice assistants really add an extra layer of convenience.

But is it worth it? Let's break it down:

• High-Quality Sound: The audio performance alone can justify the cost if you're an audiophile or someone who enjoys crisp, clear sound.
• Durability: The build quality ensures that this speaker can last you a long time, making it a good investment.
• Smart Features: The integration with various smart home ecosystems and voice assistants adds a lot of value.
• Portability: It's not the most portable option, but it can be moved around the house easily.

However, if you're on a tight budget or don't need all the fancy features, you might find it a bit pricey. There are cheaper alternatives that offer decent performance, but they might not match the overall package this speaker provides.

In summary, if you're looking for a high-quality, versatile speaker and you’re willing to pay a bit more for those extra features, the Sonos Era 100 is a great choice. For those who are more budget-conscious, it might be worth considering other options, but you’d be missing out on some premium perks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Sonos Era 100 stands out as a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their audio experience with a mobile speaker. Its stylish design and quality craftsmanship ensure it will look good in any environment, while its robust audio performance delivers clear, immersive sound. The range of connectivity options and compatibility with other devices makes it versatile and user-friendly. Plus, the smart features and seamless integration with popular voice assistants add a layer of convenience that's hard to beat. However, it's worth noting that the battery life might not be as long as some other speakers in its class. If you're planning to use it primarily on the go, this might be a factor to consider.

The price point is also on the higher end, but with the range of features and the quality you get, it can be seen as a worthwhile investment. Overall, this speaker offers excellent value for money and is a great addition to any music lover's arsenal. Whether you're blasting tunes at a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, it delivers.

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Pros & cons

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Technical specifications