Sonos Roam vs Roam 2: Which Portable Speaker Reigns?
Are you torn between the freedom of portable audio and the premium sound quality Sonos is known for? You’re not alone! The Sonos Roam and its successor, the Roam 2, both promise to deliver exceptional listening experiences on the go, but which one is right for you?
This comparison dives deep into the features, performance, and value of the Sonos Roam vs Roam 2. We’ll explore the key differences, from design and battery life to sound quality and connectivity, to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re a seasoned Sonos enthusiast or new to the world of wireless speakers, this guide will provide a comprehensive overview. Get ready to discover which portable powerhouse best suits your lifestyle and listening preferences. Let’s find out which Roam comes out on top!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | sonos roam | roam 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 0.95 lbs | 0.95 lbs |
| Dimensions | 6.61 x 2.4 x 2.36 inches | 7.09 x 2.4 x 2.52 inches |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
| Apple AirPlay 2 | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Assistant | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Water Resistance | IP67 | IP67 |
| Dust Resistance | IP67 | IP67 |
| Charging | USB-C, Wireless Charging (optional) | USB-C, Wireless Charging (optional) |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours | Up to 10 hours |
| Automatic Trueplay | Yes | Yes |
| Colors | Black, White, Lunar White, Sunset | Black, White, Olive, Sunset |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design and Build
- Sonos Roam: Compact and durable, with a triangular design. IP67-rated for dust and water resistance. Some users find the rounded edges easier to grip.
- Roam 2: Similar compact design to the original, with updated aesthetics. IP67-rated for dust and water resistance. Improved tactile buttons and a more refined overall feel.
- Winner: Roam 2
Sound Quality
- Sonos Roam: Delivers surprisingly good sound for its size, with clear highs and decent bass. Sound profile can be slightly thin at higher volumes.
- Roam 2: Upgraded internal architecture. Improved sound profile, providing richer sound and better bass response.
- Winner: Roam 2
Connectivity
- Sonos Roam: Supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0. Seamless switching between Wi-Fi at home and Bluetooth on the go.
- Roam 2: Supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0. Similar connectivity to its predecessor.
- Winner: Tie
Battery Life
- Sonos Roam: Offers up to 10 hours of continuous playback. Battery life may vary depending on volume and usage.
- Roam 2: Offers up to 10 hours of continuous playback. Same battery life as the original.
- Winner: Tie
Charging
- Sonos Roam: Charges via USB-C or with the optional wireless charging base.
- Roam 2: Charges via USB-C or with the optional wireless charging base.
- Winner: Tie
Setup and Integration
- Sonos Roam: Easy setup with the Sonos app. Integrates seamlessly with other Sonos speakers.
- Roam 2: Easy setup with the Sonos app. Integrates seamlessly with other Sonos speakers.
- Winner: Tie
Bluetooth Pairing
- Sonos Roam: Bluetooth pairing can sometimes be a bit clunky.
- Roam 2: Updated Bluetooth pairing.
- Winner: Roam 2
Price
- Sonos Roam: Generally available at a lower price point.
- Roam 2: Generally available at a higher price point.
- Winner: sonos roam
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Value | roam 2 |
| Sound Quality | roam 2 |
| Design | roam 2 |
| Features | roam 2 |
| Durability | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Portability: Both the Sonos Roam and Roam 2 are designed to be highly portable, making them ideal for listening on the go. Their compact sizes and lightweight designs allow for easy transport and placement.
- Durability: Both speakers boast an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, providing peace of mind when used outdoors or in environments where they might be exposed to the elements.
- Connectivity: Both Roam models support both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, offering flexibility in how you stream your music. You can seamlessly switch between your home network and Bluetooth for on-the-go listening.
- Voice Control: Both speakers integrate with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, giving you hands-free control over your music playback, smart home devices, and more.
- Multi-Room Audio: Both Roam speakers are compatible with the Sonos ecosystem, allowing you to easily integrate them into a multi-room audio setup and play music throughout your home.
- Automatic Trueplay: Both models feature Automatic Trueplay, which optimizes the sound output based on the speaker’s environment for the best possible listening experience.
Sonos Roam Vs Roam 2 Buying Guide
Portability and Design
The Sonos Roam and Roam 2 both excel in portability, designed for on-the-go listening. The Roam 2 refines the design with subtle improvements. Both feature a compact, lightweight build, making them ideal for carrying in a bag or holding comfortably. The Roam 2 might feel slightly more refined in hand with its updated finish and improved button layout. Consider your primary use case: if you prioritize absolute ruggedness, both models offer IP67 water and dust resistance, making them suitable for outdoor adventures and accidental spills. The Roam 2 builds on the original’s already excellent portability.
Sound Quality and Performance
While both Roam models provide impressive sound for their size, the Roam 2 often presents a more refined audio experience. The Roam 2 leverages improved internal components and software optimization. Expect a slightly wider soundstage and enhanced clarity, particularly in the mid-range frequencies. The original Roam still delivers robust audio with balanced sound, the Roam 2 offers a noticeable boost in overall sound quality, making it a better choice for audiophiles. Both Roams support Trueplay tuning, which automatically adjusts the sound to your environment.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a crucial factor for a portable speaker. The Roam and Roam 2 offer similar battery performance, typically providing around 10 hours of continuous playback at moderate volumes. The Roam 2 might have slight improvements in power management, resulting in marginal longevity. Both support USB-C charging for convenience, and you can purchase a dedicated wireless charging dock for each model. The standby time is also excellent, allowing either speaker to conserve battery power when not in use. Consider how you intend to charge the speaker during your adventures.
Connectivity and Features
Connectivity is key for a seamless listening experience. Both Roam models offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0, enabling flexible streaming options. The Roam 2 might have faster Bluetooth pairing. Both support Apple AirPlay 2, allowing for easy integration with your Apple devices. The built-in voice control through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant is available on both models. The Roam 2, with its updated internal components and software, might offer slightly faster response times when using voice assistants and switching between wireless and Bluetooth.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Durability is essential for outdoor use. Both Roam models boast an IP67 rating, meaning they are water and dust resistant. This rating allows you to confidently use them near water or in dusty environments without worry. The Roam 2 may have slightly refined materials, which could lead to increased durability over time, but both models are built to withstand the rigors of travel and outdoor activities. Consider your typical usage: if you frequently expose your speaker to harsh conditions, both models are well-equipped to handle the challenge.
Price and Value
Price is a significant factor in any buying decision. The Roam 2 is typically priced slightly higher than the original Roam. Consider your budget and the value you place on the improvements offered by the Roam 2. The Roam offers great value for its price, providing a fantastic audio experience and robust features. The Roam 2 delivers a noticeable sound quality boost and potentially minor refinements, justifying the slightly higher price point for those seeking the best possible sound. Evaluate your budget and the enhancements of the new product.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy sonos roam If…
- You find a great deal on the original Roam.
- You are satisfied with the existing features and don’t need the latest enhancements.
- You primarily use the speaker indoors and are less concerned about minor improvements.
Buy roam 2 If…
- You want the latest version with improved features and sound.
- You value the enhanced design and updated controls for a better user experience.
- You want a speaker with improved battery life and reliability.
- You want a speaker with a longer lifespan due to the updated components.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between the Sonos Roam and Roam 2?
The Roam 2 often features improvements in sound quality, potentially a slightly refined design, and possibly faster Bluetooth connectivity. The Roam 2 may have minor software and hardware upgrades. Both offer the same core functionality, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and voice assistant support. The Roam 2 has subtly improved the user experience.
Which model has better sound quality?
The Roam 2 generally has better sound quality due to internal improvements and software optimization. Expect a wider soundstage and enhanced clarity, especially in the mid-range frequencies. Both Roam speakers are tuned well. However, the Roam 2 is designed with a more refined audio experience in mind.
Does the Roam 2 have better battery life?
Battery life is similar across both models, providing around 10 hours of playback at moderate volumes. Both models have excellent standby times, and they charge with USB-C. The Roam 2 may have slight improvements in power management. However, the difference in battery life is negligible in practical usage.
Are the Roam and Roam 2 waterproof?
Yes, both models are IP67-rated, making them water and dust resistant. You can confidently use them near water or in dusty environments without concern. The IP67 rating means they can withstand immersion in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes. The Roam 2 and Roam are reliable for outdoor use.
Can I use the Roam and Roam 2 with voice assistants?
Yes, both models support voice control through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant when connected to Wi-Fi. You can use voice commands to play music, control playback, and access other smart home features. The Roam 2 may offer a slightly faster response time for voice commands, but both models perform well.
Which is better for outdoor use?
Both models are excellent for outdoor use, thanks to their IP67 rating and portable design. The Roam 2 might have slightly refined materials, but both are durable. Choose based on your preference for sound quality and any other additional features. The rugged design makes both speakers well-suited for outdoor adventures.
Is the Roam 2 worth the extra cost?
Whether the Roam 2 is worth the extra cost depends on your priorities. If sound quality is paramount, the Roam 2’s improvements are worthwhile. If you’re on a budget, the original Roam remains an excellent value, offering impressive audio and features at a lower price point. Consider your budget and needs.
Final Verdict
The Sonos Roam 2 improves upon the original Roam with enhanced sound quality, potentially refined design, and potentially minor performance boosts. Both models offer exceptional portability, durability, and features for on-the-go listening. While the Roam provides excellent value, the Roam 2 delivers a more refined audio experience, making it the superior choice for those prioritizing sound quality.
Winner: Sonos Roam 2