Sonos, a pioneer in the world of wireless audio, has long been synonymous with high-quality, whole-home sound systems. But what about those moments when you want to take your music on the go? Does Sonos have a portable speaker that can keep up with your active lifestyle? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Sonos’ portable speaker options, exploring the features, benefits, and limitations of these versatile audio companions.
Introducing the Sonos Move: A Game-Changer in Portable Audio
In 2019, Sonos finally entered the portable speaker market with the release of the Sonos Move, a water-resistant, battery-powered speaker designed to take your music anywhere. This innovative speaker marked a significant departure from Sonos’ traditional home-bound speakers, offering users a new level of freedom and flexibility.
Design and Build: Rugged yet Sleek
The Sonos Move boasts a sturdy, IP56-rated design, making it resistant to dust, water, and even the occasional drop. Its sleek, compact body is crafted from a durable polymer material, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Weighing in at just 3.6 pounds, the Move is light enough to toss into a backpack or beach bag, making it the perfect companion for any adventure.
Sound Quality: Sonos’ Signature Sound on the Go
The Sonos Move is equipped with a single tweeter and a single mid-woofer, which work in tandem to produce a rich, full-bodied sound that’s quintessentially Sonos. With a frequency response range of 50 Hz to 20 kHz, the Move can handle everything from bass-heavy hip-hop to soaring orchestral scores. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hiking through the wilderness, the Move’s clear, balanced sound will transport you to a world of pure audio bliss.
Battery Life: Up to 11 Hours of Uninterrupted Music
One of the most critical aspects of any portable speaker is its battery life. The Sonos Move doesn’t disappoint, offering an impressive 11 hours of continuous playback on a single charge. When the battery eventually runs dry, simply place the Move on its included charging base or plug it into a wall outlet via USB-C.
Other Sonos Speakers with Portable Capabilities
While the Sonos Move is the brand’s first true portable speaker, several other Sonos models offer some degree of portability, albeit with certain limitations.
Sonos One: A Smart Speaker with Portable Aspirations
The Sonos One, a compact smart speaker, can be used in a variety of settings, including outdoor environments. Although it’s not water-resistant like the Move, the One’s compact size and lightweight design make it easy to transport from room to room or even to a nearby outdoor area. However, its power cord limits its true portability, making it less suitable for extended outdoor adventures.
Sonos Roam: A Rugged and Versatile Speaker
The Sonos Roam, released in 2021, is a more recent addition to the Sonos family. This waterproof and dustproof speaker is designed for both indoor and outdoor use, featuring a rechargeable battery and a carrying strap for easy transport. Although it’s smaller and more compact than the Move, the Roam still packs a punch, delivering rich, detailed sound and up to 10 hours of battery life.
What to Consider When Choosing a Portable Sonos Speaker
Before selecting a Sonos portable speaker, there are several key factors to consider:
Size and Weight
If you plan to take your speaker on extended hikes or backpacking trips, a smaller, lighter option like the Roam may be a better fit. For larger outdoor gatherings or events, the Move’s more substantial size and weight may be less of an issue.
Water Resistance
If you expect to use your speaker near water or in humid environments, look for IP-rated models like the Move or Roam. These speakers can withstand exposure to water and moisture, ensuring your music keeps playing even in wet conditions.
Battery Life
Assess your typical usage scenario and choose a speaker with a battery life that aligns with your needs. If you’re planning an all-day outdoor event, the Move’s 11-hour battery life may be more suitable.
Sound Quality
Sonos is renowned for its exceptional sound quality, but different models may suit various musical genres or listening preferences. If you prioritize bass response, the Move may be a better choice, while those seeking a more nuanced, detailed sound may prefer the Roam.
Conclusion: Unleashing the Power of Portable Sound with Sonos
In conclusion, Sonos does offer portable speaker options, each with its unique strengths and weaknesses. Whether you’re seeking a rugged, water-resistant companion for outdoor adventures or a compact, smart speaker for indoor use, Sonos has a solution to fit your lifestyle.
The Sonos Move, with its impressive sound quality, long battery life, and durable design, is an excellent choice for those seeking a true portable speaker. The Roam, meanwhile, offers a more compact, versatile alternative for those who want to take their music on the go without sacrificing sound quality.
Ultimately, the world of Sonos portable speakers is all about freedom – the freedom to take your music wherever you want, whenever you want. So why settle for mediocre sound when you can unleash the power of Sonos on the go?
What makes Sonos’ portable speakers so special?
Sonos’ portable speakers are designed to provide high-quality sound on-the-go, without compromising on performance or durability. These speakers are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, with rugged designs and waterproof constructions that can withstand spills, rain, and extreme temperatures. Additionally, they are incredibly easy to use, with simple setup and intuitive controls that make it easy to stream your favorite music or podcasts from your phone or tablet.
What really sets Sonos’ portable speakers apart, however, is their ability to seamlessly integrate with your existing Sonos system. This means you can easily move your music from room to room, or even take it outside, without having to worry about reconnecting or re-pairing devices. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply want to enjoy your favorite tunes on the beach, Sonos’ portable speakers make it easy to take your music wherever you go.
How do Sonos’ portable speakers compare to other portable speaker brands?
Sonos’ portable speakers are generally considered to be among the highest-quality options available on the market. While other brands may offer similar features or performance at a lower price point, Sonos’ commitment to sound quality and durability is unmatched. Additionally, Sonos’ speakers are designed to be highly integrated, making it easy to use them in conjunction with your existing Sonos system or other devices. This level of integration and compatibility is rarely found in other portable speaker brands.
That being said, there are certainly other great portable speaker brands out there, and the right choice for you will ultimately depend on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, for example, you might consider brands like Anker or UE. If you’re looking for a more premium option with advanced features, you might consider brands like Bose or Bowers & Wilkins.
Can I use Sonos’ portable speakers with my smart speaker or voice assistant?
Yes, Sonos’ portable speakers are compatible with a wide range of smart speakers and voice assistants, including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple’s Siri. This means you can control your music, adjust the volume, and even access information using just your voice. Additionally, Sonos’ speakers can be integrated with popular streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Google Play Music, making it easy to access your favorite music and podcasts.
To use your Sonos portable speaker with a smart speaker or voice assistant, simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions for pairing the devices. This typically involves downloading the Sonos app, setting up your speaker, and then linking it to your smart speaker or voice assistant. From there, you can use voice commands to control your music and access information.
How do I charge my Sonos portable speaker?
Sonos’ portable speakers come with a rechargeable battery that can be charged using a USB-C cable. To charge your speaker, simply plug it into a power source using the included cable, and let it charge for a few hours. The exact charging time will vary depending on the speaker model and your usage, but most Sonos portable speakers can be fully charged in 2-3 hours.
It’s worth noting that some Sonos portable speakers also come with additional charging options, such as wireless charging or a charging dock. Be sure to check your speaker’s documentation for specific charging instructions, and to learn more about any additional charging options that may be available.
Can I use my Sonos portable speaker in the shower or pool?
While Sonos’ portable speakers are designed to be water-resistant, they should not be submerged in water for extended periods of time. However, many Sonos portable speakers are IP67-rated, which means they can withstand accidental splashes or exposure to rain. If you plan to use your speaker in the shower or pool, be sure to check the manufacturer’s guidelines and take necessary precautions to ensure the speaker’s safety.
If you do plan to use your speaker in the shower or pool, consider investing in a waterproof case or accessory to provide an extra layer of protection. Additionally, be sure to rinse your speaker with fresh water after exposure to chlorine or saltwater to prevent damage.
How do I pair my Sonos portable speaker with another Sonos speaker?
To pair your Sonos portable speaker with another Sonos speaker, simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setting up a stereo pair. This typically involves opening the Sonos app, selecting the speaker you want to pair, and following the prompts to complete the pairing process. Be sure to place the speakers in close proximity to each other during the pairing process, and follow any additional instructions provided by the app.
Once paired, you can use the Sonos app to control the stereo pair, adjusting the volume, playing music, and accessing other features. You can also use voice commands or other controls to adjust the speakers, depending on your setup and preferences.
Can I use my Sonos portable speaker with a computer or laptop?
Yes, Sonos’ portable speakers can be used with a computer or laptop using a Bluetooth connection or a wired connection. To use your speaker with a computer or laptop, simply pair the devices using Bluetooth or connect the speaker to your computer using a USB-C cable. From there, you can use your computer’s audio output to play music, podcasts, or other audio through the speaker.
Be sure to check your speaker’s documentation for specific instructions on using it with a computer or laptop, as the exact process may vary depending on the speaker model and your operating system. Additionally, you may need to adjust your computer’s audio settings to ensure the speaker is recognized as the audio output device.