Sonos Black Friday: Save big on the Era 300, Arc soundbar, and more in the Ultimate Buying Guide 2024

Our Sonos expert breaks down the popular audio brand's products. Read on for the best from Sonos.

The Ultimate Sonos Buyer's Guide

by Harvey Isitt |
Updated on

Black Friday is here, and with it comes some of the most exciting Sonos deals of the year. Whether you're a Sonos newbie or a seasoned user looking to upgrade or expand your setup, now it the perfect time to take advantage of these unbeatable offers. With a diverse 2024 lineup that includes speakers, soundbars, subwoofers, and architectural audio products, choosing the best speaker for you can feel daunting. That's where we come in. In this guide, we'll break down some of the best Sonos Black Friday deals, highlight the advantages and disadvantages of each product, and share our recommendations to help you make an informed decision and score the perfect addition to your audio setup.

If you've encountered any of our previous articles, you'll know that we regularly feature Sonos speakers in our home audio recommendations – with its speakers often grabbing the top spot. While we openly love and continually recommend Sonos among other brands, we aim not to push you into buying the most expensive setup. On the contrary, we take pride in providing alternatives to big brands and high price points that offer great value without compromising on quality. However, as you may have gathered from our site, we firmly believe that Sonos justifies its price – and then some.

The best Sonos Black Friday deals 2024

We interrupt your scrolling to let you know that the countdown to Black Friday 2024 is on, kicking off November 29th - but some amazing deals are already live and for the taking. If you're eyeing premium sound systems, Sonos has a variety of offers that are simply too good to pass up. Whether you're upgrading your home audio system or getting you're Christmas shopping done early, and cheaper, now's the time to grab top-tier Sonos products at the lowest prices of the year. Check out our handpicked deals below, or keep scrolling for your ultimate buyer's guide.

Shop Sonos Black Friday deals on: Amazon | John Lewis | Currys

Biggest savings: Sonos Ray Compact Soundbar, WAS £279, NOW £149
Save £120: Sonos Era 300, WAS £449, NOW £329
25% off: Sonos Beam Compact Soundbar, WAS £449, NOW £339
£40 discount: Sonos Roam 2 Portable Speaker, WAS £179, NOW £139
Great £100 deal: Sonos Ace Headphones, WAS £449, NOW £349
£179 savings: Sonos Arc Soundbar, WAS £799, NOW £625
Over £90 off: Sonos Sub Mini Subwoofer, WAS £429, NOW £339
20% discount: Sonos Era 100, WAS £249, NOW £199
Save 10%: Sonos Sub Subwoofer, WAS £799, NOW £719

Now back to our regularly scheduled content.

All right, let’s talk products. This buying guide is designed to be your one-stop resource, with four main sections covering wireless speakers, portable speakers, soundbars, and home cinema. We'll also provide a brief overview of the Sonos architectural range and their discontinued, unsupported products toward the end.

The complete Sonos buying guide at a glance

Best speaker: Sonos Era 300 - View on Amazon
Best portable speaker: Sonos Move 2 - View on Argos
Best soundbar: Sonos Arc - View on Amazon
Best subwoofer: Sonos Sub (3rd Gen) - View on Argos
Best audio component: Sonos Amp - View on Peter Tyson

But before we start, let's begin with their newest product, the Sonos Ace, which marks their debut in the headphone market.

The complete Sonos buying guide 2024

All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.

Headphones

A man listening to music with Sonos' new Ace Headphones
©Sonos

As dedicated Sonos enthusiasts, we were thrilled about the long-awaited release of Sonos' wireless headphones in 2024. Departing from its usual product range, Sonos set its sights on producing a high-end pair of headphones to rival top-tier models like Apple's AirPods Max and Bose's QuietComfort Ultra Headphones. The question is: Has it succeeded?

Early Black Friday: Save £100

Best headphones

Sonos
Price: £449.00

Sonos' new Ace headphones, a new product category for Sonos, offer high-end noise cancellation and exceptional sound quality. They have eight beamforming microphones for unmatched noise cancellation and voice targeting for their transparency mode.

The headphones also feature a unique capability that allows seamless playback of your TV's audio for private home cinema viewing. However, unlike other Sonos products, they cannot stream music over Wi-Fi or be grouped with other Sonos speakers.

These headphones are a pleasure to wear, a testament to Sonos' commitment to comfort and luxury. Their lightweight construction, metal and vegan leather elements, and memory foam cushioning provide a luxurious feel and a comfortable fit around your ears.

With 40mm custom drivers in each ear, these headphones produce vibrant sound with a wide soundstage. They support spatial audio, Dolby Atmos, and dynamic head-tracking, all contributing to a truly immersive audio experience. For those who prefer a wired connection, the headphones come with 3.5mm and USB-C adapters, supporting lossless audio.

The headphones have physical, tactile control buttons, including dedicated power and mode toggling on the earcups and a volume slide button known as the "content key". This button also functions as the TV Audio swap button, allowing seamless switching from soundbar to headphone audio.

An exciting future update for Sonos is the release of a software feature called TrueCinema, designed to enhance the sound based on the room environment. The Sonos Ace is also supported by Apple and Android.

Pros

  • Top-tier noise-cancellation comparable to Apple, Sony, and Bose
  • Unmatched comfort with lightweight build and memory foam cushioning
  • Seamless audio switching from Sonos Arc to headphones

Cons

  • Lacks Wi-Fi music streaming capabilities, unlike other Sonos products
  • Build Quailty
    5.0
  • Sound Quality
    4.5
  • Design
    5.0
  • Value
    4.5
Dimensions191 x 160 x 85 mm
Weight312g
ConnectionsBluetooth 5.4, USB-C, 3.5 mm
Battery Life30 hours
Charging3 hours (3 minutes for 3 hours)
WaterproofingNo
Available coloursBlack – Soft White
Additional featuresSpatial audio, Active Noise Cancellation, Lossless audio, Aware mode, Dolby Atmos, Dynamic head tracking, Rapid charging, Wear detection

Speakers

Two Sonos Era 300s on floor stands in a living space
©Sonos

Early Black Friday: 27% off

Best overall speaker

The Sonos Era 300 is a ground-breaking speaker designed for immersive audio with Dolby Atmos support. It has six optimally positioned drivers: four tweeters and two woofers, providing 360-degree sound. Smaller and less powerful than the Sonos Five, it supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and line-in via USB-C. The Arc delivers an extraordinary listening experience, combining advanced acoustics with aesthetic appeal. It offers easy setup, adjustable EQ, and Trueplay tuning while redefining spatial audio.

Sonos offers a stand, wall mount, floor stand, tilt & swivel wall mount for alternative placement and space-saving.

Pros

  • Immersive Dolby Atmos sound performance with incredible bass
  • Sleek, premium build – upgrade any living space
  • Ergonomic “pinched hourglass” design for enhanced audio dispersion

Cons

  • Slightly less bass than the Sonos Five
Dimensions160 x 260 x 185 mm
Weight4.5kg
ConnectionsWi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, Apple AirPlay 2, Line in
Battery lifeN/A (AC-powered)
WaterproofingHumidity resistant
Available coloursBlack – White
Additional featuresDolby Atmos, Voice enabled, Trueplay, Touch controls

Early Black Friday: £50 off

Best value speaker

Sonos
Price: £199.00

The Sonos Era 100 is a significant upgrade from the now-discontinued Sonos One speaker (which we have reviewed highly and is still available). It offers finely tuned stereo sound with rich bass. The speaker boasts dual tweeters, a 25 per cent larger woofer, and advanced connectivity options such as Bluetooth and USB-C line-in, resulting in a significantly deeper bass and a vaster soundstage. Ideal for any room, it can also be paired with additional speakers to create a cinematic surround sound experience.

Sonos offers a wall mount, stand, floor stand, tilt & swivel wall mount for alternative placement and space-saving.

Pros

  • Wide soundstage with crisp and clear detailing
  • Great bass and treble adjustments
  • Revised design with sleeker volume slider

Cons

  • Some sound compression at max volumes
Dimensions182.5 x 220 x 130.5 mm
Weight2.02kg
ConnectionsBluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, Apple AirPlay 2, USB-C
Battery lifeN/A (AC-powered)
WaterproofingHumidity resistant
Available coloursMatte Black – Matte White
Additional featuresVoice enabled, Trueplay, Touch controls

Best Hi-Fi speaker

Sonos

Known for its unparalleled Hi-Fi sound quality, the Sonos Five is the largest standalone speaker offered by Sonos. It provides clear stereo separation, detailed vocal reproduction, and deep bass for audio immersion. The speaker features three high-excursion woofers and three angled tweeters designed to deliver excellent performance. It also includes a 3.5mm line-in connection, allowing seamless integration with turntables, CD players, and other devices. The speaker can be positioned horizontally for stereo sound or vertically for mono and is controlled by adaptive touch controls. Available in matte black and white, the Sonos Five is a versatile option for individual use or as part of a multi-room setup.

Sonos offers a Sanus speaker stand for optimal listening height.

Pros

  • Biggest, most powerful of all Sonos products
  • Large and loud volume with rumbling low-bass
  • Wide room-filling soundstage - perfect for bigger living spaces

Cons

  • Wired-only design which may be limiting for some users
Dimensions203 x 364 x 154 mm
Weight6.3kg
ConnectionsWi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, Apple AirPlay 2, Line in
Battery lifeN/A (AC-powered)
WaterproofingHumidity resistant
Available coloursBlack – White
Additional featuresApple AirPlay 2, Touch controls, Dual orientation

Portable Speakers

Two men dancing, one of them holding the Sonos Roam 2
©Sonos

Best portable speaker

Sonos

The Sonos Move 2 is an upgraded version of its 2019 Move speaker, with improved Bluetooth 5.0 and WiFi 6 connectivity. With a new acoustic design, it boasts two tweeters for stereo sound and a precision-tuned woofer for a deep, captivating bass. The Move 2 also boasts an enormous 24 hours of battery life, doubling its predecessor's. It is weather-resistant and equipped with a built-in handle for easy portability. It's worth noting that the Move 2 does not support Google Assistant.

Likewise, extended battery life is the primary factor to consider when deciding between the Move 2 and the original Move. If you do not plan on using the speaker on the go and are happy with 11 hours of battery life, we recommend choosing the first version of the Move to save money.

Pros

  • Up to 24 hours of battery life
  • Detailed woofer for deep, engaging bass
  • Reliable IP56 rating for peace of mind while out and about

Cons

  • Size can limit its portability
Dimensions241 x 160 x 127 mm
Weight3kg
ConnectionsWi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, Apple AirPlay 2, Line in
Battery life24 hours
WaterproofingIP56
Available coloursBlack – White – Green
Additional featuresDrop resistant, Trueplay, Touch controls, Voice enabled

Early Black Friday: £40 discount

Best battery life

Sonos
Price: £139 (was £179)

www.currys.co.uk

The Sonos Roam 2 is the perfect companion for summer excursions, delivering robust sound and impressive bass in a compact, resilient package. Whether at the beach, on a trail, or lounging by the pool, its lightweight construction is waterproof (IP67) and drop-resistant. With a battery life of 10 hours, it ensures continuous enjoyment. Though high volumes can compromise audio precision, the Roam 2 consistently delivers exceptional clarity and versatility, making it an excellent choice for music enthusiasts on the move.

Sonos offers an Otterbox case and wireless charger for improved portability and more comfortable keeping.

Pros

  • Excellent IP67 waterproofing
  • Breezy, lightweight portability
  • Reliable 10-hour battery life

Cons

  • No Google Assistant support
Dimensions168 x 62 x 60 mm
Weight0.43kg
ConnectionsWi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, Apple AirPlay 2
Battery life10 hours
WaterproofingIP67
Available coloursBlack – White – Red <strong>–</strong> Blue – Green
Additional featuresTrueplay, Button controls, Voice enabled

Best cost-effective

Sonos

With a microphone-free design, the Sonos Roam SL provides a cost-effective alternative to its predecessor, the Roam. Although it foregoes features such as voice command, Trueplay, and Sound Swap, it remains a compelling choice for music enthusiasts. Seamless connectivity via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth ensures uninterrupted streaming no matter where you are. Its durable construction can withstand various environments, and the meticulously tuned amplifiers and drivers deliver exceptional sound quality. Portable and lightweight, it's prepared to accompany you on all your adventures.

Pros

  • Highly portable for easy on-the-go use
  • Drop-resistant and IP67 protected
  • Affordable alternative to the Roam

Cons

  • Lacks microphone support
Dimensions168 x 59 x 62 mm
Weight0.42kg
ConnectionsWI-Fi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2
Battery life10 hours
WaterproofingIP67
Available coloursShadow Black – Lunar White
Additional featuresDrop resistant, Button controls

Sonos

The Sonos Move is a versatile, portable smart speaker with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. It has dual Class-D amplifiers, a downward-facing tweeter, and a faithful mid-woofer to ensure an incredible listening experience. It can last up to 10 hours on a single charge. The Move has an IP56 rating, protecting it against dust, water, and harsh weather. The speaker features Auto Trueplay technology, which adapts the sound to any environment. Its sturdy build and ergonomic handle make it a breeze to carry around.

Sonos offers a Travel Bag, Wall Hook and Indoor/outdoor mount for improved portability and convenient at-home placement.

Pros

  • True-sounding mid-woofer for fantastic audio experience
  • Incredible IP56 rating for protection against harsh weather
  • Alexa and Google Assistant integration

Cons

  • Heftier than other portable speakers on the market
Dimensions240 x 125 x 160 mm
Weight3kg
ConnectionsWi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.1, Apple AirPlay 2, USB-C
Battery life11 hours
WaterproofingIP56
Available coloursShadow Black – Lunar White
Additional featuresDrop resistant, Voice enabled, Touch controls

Best compact

Sonos Roam Portable SpeakerSonos
Price: £139.00
https://redirect.viglink.com?key=349f95720ce5cc9591e15152a710dbb3&prodOvrd=PCR&opt=false&u=W0BNFkoPGB1HFBIbFAJVWFhDER9WXlgdCEceYwsMDUAZawlYWBphXQIXQU4QSVBYWgBDGFdaQExHXkIQAwBfURQTSlAaZVlOI1xOIklFFFIKX0FDWl4NUlUdVk8VUk0UFVFUU11HTgdZAgBSGggCVQUNBwcEWA%3D%3D&x=v1&prdId=11088488317&barcode=AwQBUgkEBAQIU1QBVVQ%3D
Alternative retailers
B&H Photo Video$134.25View offer
Adorama$179.00View offer

The smallest and most portable speaker in the Sonos lineup, this compact marvel seamlessly transitions from indoor to outdoor settings, delivering surprisingly powerful sound wherever you go. With both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, it easily integrates into your Sonos multiroom setup or can function as a standalone Bluetooth speaker. It uses Automatic Trueplay technology to fine-tune itself for optimal sound in any environment. Rugged and water-resistant, it's crafted with precision acoustics to deliver impressive clarity and depth.

Pros

  • Smallest, most portable Sonos speaker
  • Powerful volume capabilities for outdoor environments
  • Reliable water and dust resistance

Cons

  • Does not impress as a standalone home speaker
Dimensions168 x 59 x 62 mm
Weight0.42kg
ConnectionsWi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, Apple AirPlay 2, USB-C
Battery life10 hours
WaterproofingIP67
Available coloursLunar White – Red
Additional featuresDrop resistant, Button controls, Voice enabled

Soundbars

A home TV setup with a Sonos Arc
©Sonos

Early Black Friday: 22% off

Best soundbar

Sonos
Price: £677.96

The Sonos Arc is a top-tier Dolby Atmos soundbar, replacing the now-discontinued Playbar and Playbase. Boasting 11 high-performance drivers, it delivers an immersive, multidimensional Dolby Atmos sound experience. The Trueplay tuning technology optimises the audio based on your room setup. Its elegant design seamlessly fits in front of a TV or can be mounted on a wall. The Sonos Arc supports HDMI eARC, AirPlay 2, and voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant, offering easy setup and smart home integration to elevate your home cinema and music experience.

Sonos offers a wall mount and extendable Sanus TV mount for more seamless home integration.

Pros

  • Upward-firing drivers for immersive, multidirectional sound
  • Elegant design will upgrade any home sound system
  • Dolby Atmos compatible for richer listening experience

Cons

  • Only offers an eARC port and lacks EQ tuning
Dimensions87 x 1142 x 116 mm
Weight6.25kg
ConnectionsWi-Fi, HDMI eARC, Ethernet, Apple AirPlay2
Batteery lifeN/A (AC-powered)
WaterproofingNo
Available coloursBlack – White
Additional featuresDolby Atmos, Voice enabled, Trueplay, TV remote sync, Touch controls

Early Black Friday: 25% off

Best value

Sonos
Price: £339 (was £449)

www.currys.co.uk

The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is a sleek soundbar with an exciting update: Dolby Atmos support. Despite not having upward-firing drivers, its upgraded CPU, 40 per cent faster than the original Beam, can generate virtual height channels for a captivating audio experience. The new Beam has an eARC connection and a polycarbonate grille, retaining its predecessor's aesthetic. It offers sound reproduction precision for music and movies, featuring clear dialogue and well-balanced audio. Dolby Atmos delivers immersive spatial audio, enriching the depth and dimension of every scene and musical piece.

Sonos offers a wall mount and Sanus TV mount for seamless home integration.

Pros

  • Size-defying Dolby Atmos supported sound
  • Easy setup and a significant upgrade from its predecessor
  • Refreshed design with more luxurious outer mesh

Cons

  • No additional HDMI ports
Dimensions68 x 651 x 100 mm
Weight2.88kg
ConnectionsWi-Fi, HDMI eARC, Ethernet, Apple AirPlay 2
Battery lifeN/A (AC-powered)
WaterproofingNo
Available coloursBlack – White
Additional featuresDolby Atmos, Voice enabled, Trueplay, TV remote sync, Touch controls

Early Black Friday: Biggest Savings!

Best compact

Sonos
Price: £149 (was £279)

www.currys.co.uk

The Sonos Ray is Sonos' latest, most compact, budget-friendly soundbar, tailored for use with smaller and older TVs equipped with optical connectivity. In contrast to the Arc and Beam, it lacks Dolby Atmos, built-in microphones, and smart speaker capabilities. Nevertheless, the Ray delivers impressive sound quality for its size and seamlessly integrates into Sonos multi-room or home cinema setups. A 40 per cent faster chip enables virtual surround sound, while its elegant design features a precisely perforated grille, making it a stylish addition to any home entertainment system.

Sonos offers a wall mount for space-saving home integration.

Pros

  • Crisp, precise vocal reproduction with a wide soundstage
  • Compact design for smaller living spaces
  • Most budget-friendly soundbar available from Sonos

Cons

  • Lacks voice assistance
Dimensions70 x 557 x 93 mm
Weight1.9kg
ConnectionsWi-Fi, Optical, Ethernet, Apple AirPlay 2
Battery lifeN/A (AC-powered)
WaterproofingNo
Available coloursBlack – White
Additional featuresTV remote sync, Touch controls

Home Cinema

Sonos Sub placed on the floor in a living space
©Sonos

Best subwoofer

Sonos

The Sonos Sub, Sonos' sole wireless subwoofer, enriches any system with its clean, pulsating bass. Its force-cancelling drivers effectively eliminate distortion, and its sleek, high-gloss design allows for vertical or horizontal placement. The Sub seamlessly connects wirelessly to any Sonos speaker or Amp, elevating the experience of a multi-room or home theatre setup. Simple to set up using WiFi and the Sonos app, it provides the option to fine-tune bass levels. Featuring a low 25 Hz frequency response and automatic EQ adjustments, the Sub delivers a more immersive, powerful sound. Offered in black or white, it seamlessly combines style and functionality.

Pros

  • Elevates any Sonos setup with thunderous bass
  • Refreshed design and easy single-button setup
  • Excellent investment for achieving at-home surround sound

Cons

  • Works exclusively with Sonos products
Dimensions389 x 402 x 158 mm
Weight13.15kg
ConnectionsWi-Fi, Ethernet
Battery lifeN/A (AC-powered)
WaterproofingNo
Available coloursBlack – White
Additional featuresDual orientation

Early Black Friday: Over £90 off

Best compact subwoofer

Sonos
Price: £339 (was £429)

www.currys.co.uk

The Sonos Sub Mini is a smaller, more budget-friendly version of the Sub, weighing 14 pounds instead of the Sub's 36 pounds. It boasts dual force-cancelling woofers in a cylindrical, acoustically sealed design, stands vertically and connects wirelessly via 5 GHz WiFi. You can pair the Sub Mini with Sonos Ray, Beam (Gen 2), Era 100, One, and One SL soundbars or speakers to enhance the bass. For a fuller, more immersive audio experience, Sonos recommends pairing the Sub Mini with the Ray or Beam.

Pros

  • Excellent handling of lower frequencies
  • Budget-friendly alternative to the Sonos Sub
  • Compact design ideal for smaller spaces

Cons

  • Cannot pair with portable Sonos speakers
Dimensions305 x 230 x 230 mm
Weight6.35kg
ConnectionsWi-Fi, Ethernet
Battery lifeN/A (AC-powered)
WaterproofingNo
Available coloursBlack – White
Additional featuresTrueplay, Join Button

Audio Components

Sonos Amp on a sideboard table in a home living space
©Sonos

Best wireless amplifier

Sonos

The Sonos Amp sets itself apart from the Sonos Port by featuring an HDMI ARC port. This allows you to connect passive bookshelf speakers to your TV and Sonos system without a soundbar. It provides a cost-effective alternative for individuals with an existing speaker setup who may need more money or space for a soundbar or desire a more immersive surround sound experience with speakers positioned throughout their space.

With 125 watts per channel, it can power outdoor speakers and deliver crystal-clear, undistorted sound at higher volumes. You can connect your CD player, TV, and turntable and indulge in multiroom listening with other Sonos speakers. The Amp's advanced heatsink guarantees optimal heat management, while seamless smart home control through partner integrations allows you to craft your perfect sound system without compromising on space or aesthetics.

Sonos offers a Sanus wall mount for convenient placement.

Pros

  • Supports high-fidelity sound for a range of speakers
  • A single Sonos Amp can power up to six passive speakers, an extra pair than most amps
  • Improved power from a respectable 55W to a significant 125W

Cons

  • Requires a careful setup and EQ adjustments
Dimensions64 x 217 x 217 mm
Weight2.1kg
ConnectionsWi-Fi, Apple Airplay 2, HDMI ARC, Line in
Battery lifeN/A (AC-powered)
WaterproofingNo
Available coloursBlack
Additional features125 watts per channel, Touch controls, ETrueplay

Best Wi-Fi network streamer

Sonos

The Sonos Port is designed to integrate non-Sonos equipment into your system seamlessly. Connecting to your existing stereo or receiver transforms your sound system to support multiroom listening. Notable features include AirPlay 2 support and a 12-volt trigger, automatically activating your connected receiver via the Sonos app. The Sonos Port's matte black finish blends seamlessly with other stereo components.

Pros

  • Sleek, modern, space-saving design with easy integration
  • Upgraded digital-to-analogue converter and 12V trigger automatically turns on amplifiers
  • The only Sonos product with a line-out for integrating existing amp and speaker systems

Cons

  • Only comes with a single RCA cable
Dimensions138 x 138 x 41 mm
Weight0.47kg
ConnectionsWi-Fi, Digital Coax, Line in, Ethernet, Apple AirPlay 2
Battery lifeN/A (AC-powered)
WaterproofingNo
Available coloursBlack
Additional featuresAutomatic 12V trigger, Built-in DAC

Home Décor

SYMFONISK, the collaboration between Sonos and IKEA, was launched in 2019 and redefined home sound systems. These WiFi speakers offer innovative space-saving solutions by seamlessly blending technology and design. According to IKEA Home Smart Business Leader Björn Block, "Our collective work aims to save space, eliminate cords, and integrate sound beautifully into the home." The SYMFONISK range provides versatile options, from the artful Picture Frame speaker to the dual-purpose Table Lamp speaker. These mountable and customisable speakers effortlessly merge into your décor, transforming lamps into sound sources and shelves into speakers.

Best aesthetic speaker

IKEA
Price: £220.00

www.ikea.com

This innovative speaker seamlessly combines art and audio. Designed to be hung on a wall in any orientation or leaned against it, the speaker's grille can be personalised with interchangeable artwork. Despite its compact cone, this speaker delivers awe-inspiring sound quality comparable to the Sonos One. Additionally, it can be paired with another picture frame speaker to create a stereo setup. Offered in black or white frames, it effortlessly integrates into any home décor.

Pros

  • Space-saving and blends seamlessly into any space
  • Minimal compression at max volumes
  • Adjustable bass and treble

Cons

  • Narrow soundstage with no Bluetooth support
Dimensions410 x 570 x 60 mm
Weight5.25kg
ConnectionsWi-Fi, Apple Airplay 2, Spotify Connect
Battery lifeN/A (AC-powered)
WaterproofingNo
Available coloursBlack/smart – White/smart

Best bookshelf speaker

IKEA
Price: £115.00

www.ikea.com

The Symfonisk Bookshelf Speaker (Gen 2) is an affordable and versatile speaker available in either black or white. It offers functionality and performance similar to the Sonos One. This speaker can be positioned upright, placed horizontally, or mounted on a wall to serve as a shelf for storing books. While it may not match other Sonos speakers' premium build and sound quality, it is the most budget-friendly option in the Sonos lineup. The speaker seamlessly integrates with other Sonos products, supports popular streaming services, and produces rich, expansive sound.

Ikea also offers separate mounting brackets, floor stands, and variations of the bookshelf speaker - one with an LED light and the other with an LED spot – making it even more distinct and space-saving. They can also be purchased as a pair, with an additional book cover front for a more seamless blend into your bookshelf.

Pros

  • Unique design ideal for limited spaces
  • Cheapest way to experience Sonos
  • Bold and precise soundstage

Cons

  • Lacks detailing at high volumes
Dimensions100 x 150 x 310 mm
Weight2.52kg
ConnectionsWi-Fi, Apple Airplay 2, Spotify Connect
Battery lifeN/A (AC-powered)
WaterproofingNo
Available coloursBlack smart/gen 2 – White smart/gen 2

Best lamp speaker

IKEA
Price: £199.00

www.ikea.com

The Symfonisk speaker lamp combines a Sonos WiFi speaker with an IKEA lamp, creating an elegant, space-saving, all-in-one device. It provides a 180-degree sound, similar to the Sonos One SL. This makes it perfect for any room, especially on a bedside table where space is limited or in any area where you prefer a speaker that camouflages as a lamp. When connected to the DIRIGERA hub, it can be controlled alongside other smart home devices through IKEA's Smart Home app.

This lamp offers three types of shades. The glass shade comes in four variations: black lamp with white shade, solid black, solid white, and white lamp with black shade. The textile shade also has the same four variations. The third option is the unique bamboo shade, which complements warmer bulbs. This shade is also available as a floor lamp.

Pros

  • 180 degrees of sound - widest soundstage of the SYMFONISK range
  • Elegant design and two-birds-one-stone space-saving functionality
  • Solid treble and mid-range for such a small body

Cons

  • Bass somewhat muddier than most Sonos products
Dimensions200 x 160 x 160 mm
Weight2.39kg
ConnectionsWiFi
Battery lifeN/A (AC-powered)
WaterproofingNo
Available coloursGlass (Black/white, Black, White, White/black) – Textile (Black/white, Black, White, White/black) – Bamboo

Architectural

Sonos has partnered with Sonance, a renowned audio company recognised for its in-ceiling and -wall speakers, to introduce the Sonos Architectural range. This collaboration has led to the development of a series of speakers tailored to integrate with the Sonos Amp seamlessly. Released in early 2019, these unobtrusive speakers blend into your living environment while offering exceptional sound quality. The range comprises In-Ceiling, In-Wall, and Outdoor speakers, all compatible with Sonos' Trueplay tuning technology for optimised audio performance.

For those considering purchasing any of these architectural products, investing in Sonos' Amp is recommended either as part of a set with chosen speakers or as a separate purchase. Moreover, it's advisable to have a professional handle the installation – Sonos provides assistance and store locations for this – to ensure optimal speaker placement and setup, offering the best listening experience tailored to your space and weather endurance in the case of outdoor speakers.

Best discreet speakers

The Sonos and Sonance In-Ceiling speakers offer a natural, immersive sound experience. They come in six- and eight-inch sizes and utilise Trueplay technology to adjust the audio according to the unique acoustics of your space. The Amp can drive up to three pairs of these speakers, ensuring a wide soundstage. Additionally, their bezel-less grilles can be custom-painted to match your ceiling, providing a cohesive look with your décor.

You can purchase these In-Ceiling speakers as a set with the Sonos Amp.

Pros

  • Natural, room-filling sound with discrete installation
  • Moisture and steam-resistant - ideal for kitchen and bathroom placement
  • Space-saving design and aesthetic appeal with the ability to paint grilles for a near-invisible look

Cons

  • Passive speakers, so require the Sonos Amp
Dimensions6 inch – 235.5 x 120.3 mm<br>8 inch – 2835 x 135 mm
Weight6 inch – 2.27kg<br>8 inch – 4.1kg
ConnectionsWi-Fi
Battery lifeN/A (AC-powered)
WaterproofingNo
Available coloursWhite

Best for surround sound

Sonos and Sonance's In-Wall speakers deliver powerful, focused sound for TV, music, and more. These speakers are designed to create a seamless built-in sound system that effortlessly blends into your home. Like the In-Ceiling speakers, the grilles are carefully crafted and can be painted to match your walls, preserving your home's aesthetic.

You can purchase these In-Wall speakers as a set with the Sonos Amp.

Pros

  • Bold audio performance and immersive soundstage
  • Trueplay tuning - a rarity among passive speakers
  • Grilles can be painted to enhance their near-invisible aesthetic

Cons

  • Cannot be installed outdoors
Dimensions298.7 x 199.9 x 89 mm
Weight2.1kg
ConnectionsWi-Fi
Battery lifeN/A (AC-powered)
WaterproofingNo
Available coloursWhite

Best outdoor speakers

The Sonos and Sonance Outdoor speakers deliver rich and detailed sound in outdoor environments, such as gardens and patios. These speakers are built to endure harsh weather conditions, including humidity, water, salt spray, heat, UV rays, and freezing temperatures, ensuring year-round resilience.

You can purchase these Outdoor speakers as a set with the Sonos Amp.

Pros

  • Can withstand humidity, water, salt spray, heat, UV and freezing temperatures
  • Sleek design blends seamlessly with existing Sonos system
  • Rich, powerful, premium-sounding with crystal clarity and excellent bass

Cons

  • Only worthwhile for bigger outdoor spaces. Otherwise, Sonos Moves are sufficient
Dimensions392.2 x 191 x 199 mm
Weight4kg
ConnectionsWi-Fi
Battery lifeN/A (AC-powered)
WaterproofingIP66
Available coloursBlack – White

How to choose the best Sonos speaker for you?

A man sitting on a bed surrounded by his Sonos home sound system
©Sonos

Accessories

Most Sonos products offer optional accessories to enhance your experience with the product, much of which results from a collaboration with leading mount brand Sanus. These accessories include items to improve storage, placement, portability, and charging. Along with their new product, the Ace, you can purchase a stand and charging cable. A wall mount and stand are available for the now-discontinued Sonos One, as well as a floor stand and sleek shelving unit.

Other accessories include a Sonos RCA cables, optical audio adapter, combo adapter, line-in adapter, banana plugs, HDMI cable, and replacement grilles for the Sonance speakers.

Discontinued and Unsupported Products

Sonos speakers, like most tech products, have a limited lifespan. While their audio quality may remain unchanged, their ability to connect and be compatible with updates can decline over time. These products have two main categories: discontinued and unsupported Sonos products.

Discontinued means that Sonos no longer sells the product, but refurbished or second-hand ones might be available from various retailers. On the other hand, unsupported products are no longer compatible with the Sonos S2 app, but they can still function if connected to a separate network.

The Sonos product range now includes the following discontinued but still supported products: Sonos Play: 1, Sonos Move, Sonos Play: 5 (Gen 2), Sonos Beam (Gen 1), Sonos Playbar, Sonos Playbase, Sonos Play: 3, and Sonos Boost. The Sonos Play: 5 (Gen 1), Sonos Connect, and Sonos Connect: Amp are no longer supported by the Sonos S2 app.

We do not recommend purchasing unsupported products.

Sonos App

The Sonos app makes listening to music easier by bringing together all your content and settings in one easy-to-use interface. The latest update includes a new design, quicker access to your favourite music, and simpler system control. Key features include a redesigned Home screen, easy search, and customisation options for playlists and collections. You can also control individual speakers, get product tips, and play music in different rooms. The app connects to multiple streaming services – much more inclusive than Apple and Amazon products – and offers features like Trueplay tuning and Sonos Voice Control.

However, on online forums, many users have expressed dissatisfaction with the latest update, raising complaints about removing the numeric volume display, difficulties in queuing music, and a more cluttered interface for viewing and controlling speakers. Some additional features, such as the alarm, are gone, and connectivity issues have rendered speakers unusable for some users, leading to frustration and consideration of other brands.

We have found issues with the latest update and hope that Sonos, as in the past, will quickly pick up on this shared dissatisfaction and make the necessary corrections.

A woman sitting on a sofa using the Sonos App
©Sonos

FAQs

What are Sonos' most popular products?

Sonos offers an extensive range of top-tier products, among which the Roam 2, Era 300, Era 100, Move 2, and Arc soundbar stand out as the most popular. However, we expect the newly released Sonos Ace to be very popular. It is Sonos' first foray into the world of headphones, and it's an impressive one ideal for long-time Sonos fans, like many on the What's the Best team.

Great deals on Sonos speakers

Certified Refurbished: Sonos refurbishes and sells many of its speakers, amps, and soundbars at a reduced price. Keep in mind that the available models change frequently, so you may not always find the specific one you're looking for. For the most up-to-date refurbished options from Sonos, check here.

Klarna: "Buy now, pay later" services allow users to make a purchase and defer payment to a later date at no extra cost. Klarna offers two options: "pay in full" (either now or in 30 days) or "pay over time." Klarna will split the price into three smaller monthly instalments if you choose the latter.

Upgrade Programme: Starting in November 2020, Sonos introduced a program that provides a 15% discount to customers who have owned their Sonos speakers for an extended period and are interested in purchasing new ones. There is no obligation to trade in your old speakers; you can keep them. The goal is to incentivise long-time customers to upgrade their Sonos system with newer products.

How long will security updates support my device?

Tech products, including their functionality, security updates, and support, have a limited lifespan, so it's essential to consider these factors when purchasing. Devices from companies such as Apple and Samsung no longer receive security updates after a certain period, requiring users to upgrade for continued coverage. This raises the question of how long a device will receive support.

Thankfully, as of April 29th, 2024, the UK has introduced the Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure Regime, which requires companies to disclose minimum security update periods in a clear, accessible, and transparent manner. This information must include the minimum time for security updates and an end date, providing greater transparency and enabling consumers to make more informed long-term purchase decisions.

Note: Coverage duration starts from a product release, not the date you purchase the device.

Harvey Isitt is a Tech Writer and Reviewer for What's the Best. Harvey writes reviews, buyers and how-to guides, and listicles on a broad range of topics. He's also an expert when it comes to seeking out the best deals during big sales events like Black Friday and Prime Day.

Besides writing, Harvey is an avid camera, turntable, and speaker enthusiast with a somewhat unhealthy obsession with movies. He is also a keen runner, cyclist, hiker, and swimmer.

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