Sonos Roam 2 review

The Sonos Roam 2 is a compact and portable speaker designed for audiophiles seeking both mobility and high-quality sound. Its sleek, triangular prism design is not only stylish but also practical, weighing under a pound and featuring an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance. The durable build is complemented by a choice of several colors, though the matte finish can attract fingerprints.

Sound performance is impressive, with balanced audio clarity across various genres, although the bass might not satisfy those expecting deeper tones from larger speakers. The automatic Trueplay tuning enhances audio based on the environment, though it's limited to iOS devices. Connectivity options are robust, with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and it integrates seamlessly with the Sonos ecosystem, supporting Apple AirPlay 2 and voice assistants like Amazon Alexa.

Battery life is decent at around 10 hours, but the lack of wireless charging may be a drawback for some. Compared to competitors like the JBL Flip 6 and Bose SoundLink Flex, the Sonos Roam 2 excels in smart features and connectivity, making it a strong choice for those invested in a smart home setup.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Sonos Era 100.

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Looking for a mobile speaker that packs a punch? The Sonos Roam 2 might just be what you're after. This nifty little gadget is designed for audiophiles who crave both portability and impressive sound quality. Sonos has been a trusted name in audio for years, and with their latest release, they're aiming to deliver an experience that's both versatile and user-friendly.

Whether you're chilling at home or adventuring outdoors, this speaker promises to be your reliable sound companion. The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to toss in your backpack, while its advanced features ensure you're not missing out on any tech perks. But does it live up to the hype, and how does it fare against its rivals? Let's dig in and find out.

The design of the Sonos Roam 2 is sleek and modern, featuring a compact, triangular prism shape that makes it easy to grab and go. Weighing just under a pound, it fits comfortably in your hand, making it a breeze to carry around. The size is perfect for slipping into a backpack or even a larger coat pocket. This speaker doesn't just look good; it's built to last. The IP67 rating means it's dustproof and waterproof, so you don't have to stress about a little rain or a splash at the pool. It's ready for some adventure!

One thing that stands out is the durable materials used in its construction. The outer shell feels sturdy yet smooth, and the silicone ends add extra protection against drops. The buttons are well-placed and tactile, making them easy to use without looking. However, the matte finish, while stylish, can show fingerprints and smudges more than you'd like. So, you might find yourself wiping it down a bit more often.

Color options are another plus. The Sonos Roam 2 is available in several colors, including Black, White, Sunset, Wave, and Olive. This speaker is designed to fit into any setting, whether it's your living room shelf or a picnic table. Overall, the build quality aligns with its premium feel, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of daily use while maintaining its charm.

Let's dive into the sound performance of the Sonos Roam 2. This compact speaker delivers impressive audio clarity, offering a well-balanced sound that suits a variety of music genres. Whether you're into bass-heavy tracks or smooth acoustic tunes, it handles them effectively.

The bass is not as deep as some might expect from larger speakers, but it is well-controlled and doesn't overpower the mids and highs. This balance is perfect for those who appreciate a more nuanced listening experience. You can enjoy crisp vocals and detailed instrumentals with minimal distortion, even at higher volumes.

One of the standout features is the automatic Trueplay tuning, which adjusts the sound based on the surroundings. This technology ensures you get the best audio whether you're indoors or outside. However, if you're an Android user, you might feel left out as this feature is currently limited to iOS devices.

The soundstage might not be as wide as some larger speakers, but considering its portable size, it performs well. Plus, with the option to pair two units for stereo sound, you can create a more immersive audio setup.

In summary, if you're looking for a speaker that offers both portability and impressive sound quality, the Sonos Roam 2 is a solid choice. It delivers great sound wherever you go.

Battery life is a significant factor when using a mobile speaker. The Sonos Roam 2 delivers well in this area, offering around 10 hours of continuous playtime. This is more than enough for a day at the park or a long hike. However, if you’re playing music at maximum volume, expect the battery to drain a bit quicker.

Regarding charging, the Sonos Roam 2 supports USB-C charging, which is the current standard. It's easy to use—simply plug it in, and you're good to go. The speaker includes a USB-C to USB-C cable for efficient charging. However, it does not support wireless charging.

One thing to note is that the charging speed isn’t the fastest available. It takes a couple of hours to fully charge from zero, so you might want to plug it in overnight to have it ready for the next day's adventure.

Overall, the battery life and charging options are reliable, making the Sonos Roam 2 a solid companion for your outings. Just remember to keep an eye on that battery level if you’re planning extended use.

Connectivity

The connectivity of the Sonos Roam 2 is highly versatile, making it a standout in the portable speaker market. It features both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, allowing you to switch seamlessly between home and on-the-go use.

With Wi-Fi, you can integrate the Roam 2 into your existing Sonos system and control it via the Sonos app, which provides access to a wide range of streaming services. It also supports Apple AirPlay 2, enabling iOS users to stream audio directly from their devices.

Bluetooth is ideal for use outside or away from your Wi-Fi network. The transition between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is smooth, eliminating the need for manual adjustments.

Compatibility

The Sonos Roam 2 is compatible with a variety of devices, including iPhones, Android smartphones, and computers. Connecting is straightforward across all platforms.

It supports voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Sonos Voice Control for hands-free operation. Note that Google Assistant is not supported; voice assistant compatibility is limited to Amazon Alexa and Sonos Voice Control.

One limitation is the lack of a traditional aux input, which may disappoint users who prefer wired connections. However, the extensive wireless options make this a minor drawback for most users.

Summary

Overall, the connectivity and compatibility features of the Sonos Roam 2 make it a versatile choice for music lovers. Whether streaming at home or enjoying music on the go, it covers all the essential bases.

Let's dive into the smart features and controls of this little powerhouse. If you love voice assistants, you're in luck. This speaker supports both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. You can easily control your music, check the weather, or even set reminders with just your voice. It's like having a personal assistant on standby, ready to help out. Just make sure you've got a Wi-Fi connection, and you're good to go.

Speaking of which, the speaker also works smoothly with Apple's AirPlay 2. This means you can stream directly from your Apple devices without any fuss. If you're in the Apple ecosystem, this feature is a game-changer for seamless audio streaming.

Now, let’s talk about the Sonos app. It’s pretty intuitive and lets you fine-tune your listening experience. You can adjust EQ settings, group speakers, and even manage your music library all from your phone. The app is like the remote control you never knew you needed.

For those who prefer tactile controls, fear not. The speaker has physical buttons for play, pause, volume, and microphone, so you’re not entirely dependent on your phone or voice commands. However, the buttons are a bit small, which might be tricky if you're trying to adjust settings in a hurry.

And here's something cool: with Automatic Trueplay, the speaker adjusts its sound based on its surroundings. Whether you're in a cozy room or out in the open, it optimizes the sound for the best experience. It’s all about getting the most out of your tunes, wherever you are.

Overall, the smart features here are pretty robust. Sure, there might be a slight learning curve if you're not used to voice commands, but once you get the hang of it, it's smooth sailing. This speaker really brings convenience and technology together in a neat little package.

Portability is a big deal for anyone looking to take their tunes on the go, and this speaker totally gets it. Weighing in at just under a pound, it's like carrying a can of soda. You can easily slip it into a backpack or even a large coat pocket. Plus, its compact size makes it perfect for squeezing into tight spots, whether you're heading to the park or chilling at the beach. Now, let’s talk about durability. This little gadget is built to handle life's little mishaps. With an IP67 rating, it can withstand being submerged in water up to a depth of 1 meter for up to 30 minutes, and it's also fully protected against dust.

Imagine dropping it in a puddle or getting caught in a sudden downpour—no worries, it’s designed to withstand that. It’s also dustproof, so sandy adventures are no problem. However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. While it’s quite sturdy, the speaker's sleek design might pick up some scratches if you're not careful. So, if you're the type who tosses things around, you might want to consider a protective case. Overall, this speaker is ready for action, whether you're hiking up a mountain or just moving from room to room at home. It strikes a solid balance between being lightweight and tough, making it a reliable companion for your audio escapades.

When you crack open the box of the Sonos Roam 2, you'll find a neat little package waiting for you. First up is the speaker itself, looking sleek and ready to rock your world. Alongside it, there's a USB-C to C charging cable, which is about 3.9 feet (1.2 meters) long. Unfortunately, there's no wall adapter included, which might be a bummer if you don't have a spare one lying around.

You’ll also get a Quickstart Guide and some legal/warranty information. This little booklet is your go-to for setup tips and tricks, making sure you’re jamming in no time. There's nothing too fancy or excessive in the packaging, keeping it simple and straightforward. The box itself is quite compact, which is great for those who hate excessive packaging waste. It’s clear that Sonos is sticking to eco-friendly practices here, so kudos to them for that.

But, if you were hoping for extra accessories or a carrying case, you might be a tad disappointed. Overall, the contents are minimal, but they cover the basics to get your speaker up and running.

Video by: Sonos

When exploring portable speakers, names like the JBL Flip 6 and Bose SoundLink Flex often come up. Each offers unique features, so let's dive into how they compare.

Sound Quality

Sound quality is often the deciding factor. The JBL Flip 6 is known for its punchy bass and robust sound, making it well-suited for outdoor use. The Bose SoundLink Flex is recognized for its clear vocals and balanced audio profile. The Sonos Roam 2 stands out with its Trueplay tuning, which adjusts sound based on surroundings, providing great sound in various environments.

Portability and Durability

All three speakers are durable, but they differ in size. The JBL Flip 6 and Sonos Roam 2 both have an IP67 rating, making them dustproof and waterproof—ideal for beach or poolside use. The Bose SoundLink Flex is also durable but slightly bulkier, which might be a consideration for frequent travelers.

Battery Life Battery life is crucial

The JBL Flip 6 offers around 12 hours, while the Bose SoundLink Flex provides about 12 hours as well. The Sonos Roam 2 offers up to 10 hours but includes the convenience of wireless charging, which is beneficial if you're already in the Sonos ecosystem. 

Connectivity and Compatibility

Connectivity is where the Sonos Roam 2 excels. With both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, it's versatile and integrates seamlessly with other Sonos products, ideal for multi-room audio setups. The JBL Flip 6 and Bose SoundLink Flex primarily use Bluetooth, lacking the integrated experience.

Smart Features

The Sonos Roam 2 includes voice assistant support, making it smarter than the JBL Flip 6 and Bose SoundLink Flex, which lack built-in voice control. This is a significant advantage for those interested in smart home integration.

Summary

If you're looking for a speaker that fits into a smart home setup and offers adaptable sound, the Sonos Roam 2 is a strong choice. However, if you prefer a speaker with more bass or a straightforward Bluetooth experience, the JBL or Bose options are worth considering.

Wrapping it all up, the Sonos Roam 2 proves itself as a solid contender in the mobile speaker market. It features a sleek design, impressive sound quality, and a suite of smart features that make it a great companion for both indoor and outdoor adventures. The sound performance is top-notch, delivering crisp and balanced audio that can rival larger speakers. It’s not just about the sound though; the portability and durability make it a perfect fit for those on the go.

On the flip side, the battery life—up to 10 hours—might leave some craving a bit more juice, especially for those long trips without access to a charger. However, the quick charging feature does help to mitigate this shortfall somewhat. Compatibility is another strong point, working seamlessly with a variety of devices and platforms.

Compared to its competitors, the Sonos Roam 2 holds its ground well. While some might offer slightly longer battery life or different smart features, the overall package here is hard to beat. It's a speaker that doesn’t just meet expectations but often exceeds them.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for a versatile and reliable mobile speaker, this one should be on your radar. Whether you're relaxing at home or out exploring, it's got your audio needs covered. Just remember to keep that charger handy for those marathon listening sessions!

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