Sonos Play Review: The Company’s Best Portable Speaker Yet

Sonos has faced significant challenges in recent years, including a problematic app redesign in mid-2024 that led to leadership changes and canceled products. The Sonos Play, launched this month, represents a strategic reset for the company. Positioned between the $499 Move 2 and $179 Roam 2, the $299 Play offers impressive sound quality, versatility, and portability, making it an excellent addition to Sonos’ lineup as warmer weather approaches.

The Play functions as a Wi-Fi smart speaker supporting dozens of streaming services, with additional connectivity via AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and Bluetooth. It includes a USB-C port for line-in connections to turntables and other audio devices, as well as Ethernet capability with the appropriate dongle. The speaker supports voice control through Amazon Alexa or Sonos Voice Assistant and features IP67 water and dust resistance. Notably, it comes with a wireless charging base but requires a separate USB-C power adapter.

Physically, the Play resembles a compressed Era 100, available in white and black with an optional green grab loop. At 7.6 inches tall, it’s slightly larger than the Era 100 but thinner and lighter, striking a balance between portability and performance. The speaker houses two tweeters angled at 90 degrees for stereo separation, a mid-woofer, and two passive radiators designed to enhance bass response in outdoor settings without wall reflections.

Audio performance closely matches the Era 100 despite the smaller form factor. The Play delivers well-balanced, neutral sound across various genres, from indie rock to orchestral scores. While slightly less loud than the Era 100 and with marginally reduced clarity at maximum volume, it maintains excellent sound quality for its size. The auto Trueplay tuning feature optimizes audio based on placement using the built-in microphone.

Battery life reaches up to 24 hours, significantly outperforming the Roam’s 10-hour estimate. The user-replaceable battery ensures longevity, and the charging base makes power management convenient. A new Bluetooth feature allows other Play or Move 2 speakers to join a group by pressing and holding the play/pause button when away from Wi-Fi.

At $299, the Play sits in a competitive position. While $80 more than the Era 100, it offers superior portability without significant sound quality compromises. The main competition comes from within Sonos’ own lineup, with the Move 2 providing greater volume for outdoor use and the Roam offering maximum portability at a lower price point. For most users seeking a balance of sound quality and portability, the Play represents Sonos’ best portable speaker option to date.