The Sonos Roam 2 is Sonos’ latest addition to the portable speaker market, bringing impressive sound quality, robust connectivity options, and a sleek design. With its lightweight build and versatile functionality, the Sonos Roam 2 is perfect for those who love music on the go, whether it’s at a picnic, on a hike, or at home. The Sonos Roam 2 is not just a speaker; it’s a premium audio solution that caters to the needs of both casual listeners and audiophiles alike.
Portable speakers have become an essential part of our daily lives, especially in 2024, where mobility and convenience are key. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering, enjoying some alone time at the beach, or setting up a soundscape for your home, a portable speaker like the Sonos Roam 2 ensures that your audio needs are met without compromise. Its ability to deliver rich sound, while being both durable and easy to use, makes it a standout option in the competitive market of portable speakers.
In this in-depth review, we’ll explore everything the Sonos Roam 2 has to offer—from its high-quality audio performance to its seamless integration with other Sonos products. We’ll also compare it to its competitors, highlight user testimonials, and discuss whether it’s truly worth the investment. If you’re looking for a comprehensive analysis of one of the best portable speakers in 2024, you’re in the right place.
Table of Contents
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Excellent sound quality for its size
Dual connectivity with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
IP67 waterproof rating
Seamless integration with the Sonos ecosystem
Cons:
Battery life could be longer compared to some competitors
Pricier than other portable speakers in the market
Key Features of Sonos Roam 2
The Sonos Roam 2 is packed with features that make it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. One of the standout aspects of the Roam 2 is its exceptional audio quality. Thanks to its precision-engineered acoustic system, this portable speaker delivers clear, rich, and balanced sound that can easily fill any room or outdoor space. Whether you are enjoying your favorite playlist at home or taking the speaker outdoors for a picnic, the sound quality remains consistently impressive. The enhanced bass and detailed treble ensure an immersive audio experience that sets the Sonos Roam 2 apart from many competitors.
Battery life is another significant feature of the Sonos Roam 2, offering up to 10 hours of continuous playback on a full charge. This makes it perfect for day trips, outdoor adventures, or extended listening sessions at home. The convenience of long battery life means that users can enjoy their music without constantly worrying about recharging. Additionally, the Roam 2 supports wireless charging, adding to the overall ease of use and making it even more convenient for those who value portability and minimal cable clutter.
Connectivity is a major advantage of the Sonos Roam 2, which comes equipped with both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity options. This dual connectivity makes it incredibly versatile, allowing users to seamlessly switch between streaming from a mobile device via Bluetooth to using Wi-Fi for a more stable connection when at home. This flexibility ensures that users can enjoy uninterrupted music, regardless of their location. The Roam 2 also integrates smoothly with popular voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, making it easy to control playback, adjust volume, or get information using voice commands.
The Sonos Roam 2 is also built with durability in mind, featuring an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating. This means it can be submerged in up to one meter of water for up to 30 minutes, making it the perfect companion for poolside parties, beach outings, or even the occasional accidental spill. The rugged yet sleek design ensures that the speaker is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. Its compact size and lightweight build make it easy to carry anywhere, while the robust materials used in its construction guarantee that it can withstand the challenges of both indoor and outdoor environments.
What Makes Sonos Roam 2 Stand Out
The Sonos Roam 2 stands out in the crowded portable speaker market thanks to its combination of smart features, sound quality, and design versatility. One of the most impressive aspects of the Sonos Roam 2 is its Auto Trueplay technology, which automatically tunes the speaker’s audio output to suit its surroundings. Whether indoors or outdoors, Auto Trueplay adjusts the sound to provide the best possible listening experience, ensuring that you get the most out of your music no matter where you are. This adaptive feature sets the Sonos Roam 2 apart from many other portable speakers that lack such advanced tuning capabilities.
In addition to its smart audio adjustments, the Sonos Roam 2 also excels in user convenience with its integration of Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This compatibility allows users to control playback, manage smart home devices, or ask questions—all hands-free. The voice assistant feature is not just a gimmick; it significantly enhances the usability of the speaker, turning it into a smart home hub that can seamlessly fit into your existing setup. This makes the Sonos Roam 2 more than just a speaker—it’s a multifunctional device that contributes to a connected lifestyle.
The design and build of the Sonos Roam 2 also make it a standout option. Unlike many portable speakers that compromise on aesthetics for ruggedness, the Roam 2 manages to be both stylish and durable. Its sleek, minimalist design looks great in any environment, while its IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating ensures that it can handle outdoor adventures without any issues. The lightweight and compact form factor make it easy to carry, and features like wireless charging and multi-room audio integration add to its premium feel. Together, these attributes make the Sonos Roam 2 a versatile and high-quality choice for anyone in need of a portable audio solution.
Comparing Sonos Roam 2 with Competitors
When comparing the Sonos Roam 2 to competitors like the JBL Charge 5 and the Bose SoundLink Flex, a few key differences come to light. For instance, the Sonos Roam 2 offers dual connectivity with both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, whereas the JBL Charge 5 primarily focuses on Bluetooth connectivity. This dual connectivity gives the Roam 2 a significant advantage in terms of versatility, as users can seamlessly switch between Bluetooth for outdoor use and Wi-Fi for a more stable connection at home. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy moving between indoor and outdoor settings without compromising on audio quality.
Another area where the Sonos Roam 2 excels is its integration within the Sonos ecosystem. For users who already own other Sonos products, the Roam 2 fits effortlessly into a multi-room audio setup, allowing synchronized playback across multiple speakers. This level of integration is something that competitors like JBL Charge 5 and Bose SoundLink Flex struggle to match. The ability to use the Roam 2 as part of a larger audio system makes it more than just a portable speaker—it becomes a valuable component of a complete home audio solution.
The build quality and design of the Sonos Roam 2 also set it apart from its competitors. Unlike the rugged, utilitarian design of the JBL Charge 5, the Sonos Roam 2 features a sleek, minimalist aesthetic that is both stylish and durable. The IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating ensures that it can handle tough outdoor conditions while maintaining its premium look. The Bose SoundLink Flex, while offering good sound quality, does not provide the same level of ecosystem integration or design versatility. Overall, the combination of smart features, build quality, and seamless integration makes the Sonos Roam 2 a top choice for those seeking a high-quality portable speaker that can do more than just play music.
Setting Up Sonos Roam 2
The setup process for the Sonos Roam 2 is straightforward and user-friendly. After unboxing, users can quickly connect to the Sonos app, which provides step-by-step guidance for setup and configuration. The app ensures that even those who are not tech-savvy can get the speaker up and running without any hassle. The intuitive interface of the Sonos app makes it easy to follow the instructions, from connecting to Wi-Fi to adjusting initial sound settings for an optimal experience.
Pairing the Sonos Roam 2 with devices via Bluetooth is also incredibly simple. The speaker automatically enters pairing mode when turned on, and users can easily find and select it from their device’s Bluetooth settings. This seamless pairing process means that users can quickly switch between different devices, whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, or computer, allowing for flexibility in how the speaker is used. Additionally, the Roam 2 can remember previously connected devices, making reconnection even faster.
Another notable feature during setup is the integration with voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Users can enable voice control through the Sonos app, adding even more convenience to the setup process. This allows users to control playback, adjust volume, and interact with their smart home devices—all through simple voice commands. The combination of an easy setup, intuitive app guidance, and voice assistant integration makes the Sonos Roam 2 a standout in terms of user accessibility and convenience.
Performance Review
The Sonos Roam 2 performs exceptionally well in a variety of environments, whether it’s being used in a quiet room or outdoors. The automatic Trueplay feature is one of its standout capabilities, adjusting the sound quality based on the surroundings to provide the best possible audio experience. This feature makes the Roam 2 ideal for those who frequently change locations, as it ensures that the speaker always delivers optimal sound, whether you are in a small indoor space or an open outdoor area. The versatility of the Trueplay feature allows users to enjoy consistently high-quality sound without manual adjustments.
In addition to the adaptive audio, the overall sound quality of the Sonos Roam 2 is remarkable for a speaker of its size. The precision-engineered acoustics provide rich, full-bodied sound with deep bass and clear treble. Whether you’re listening to a podcast, a classical music piece, or your favorite pop hits, the Roam 2 delivers a balanced and immersive experience. This level of audio performance is often difficult to find in portable speakers, which makes the Sonos Roam 2 a leading choice for those seeking superior sound in a compact package.
Battery life is another area where the Sonos Roam 2 excels, offering up to 10 hours of continuous playback on a full charge. This is more than sufficient for day trips, gatherings, or extended listening sessions at home. The convenience of wireless charging also adds to the ease of use, allowing users to quickly recharge the speaker without dealing with cables. The combination of long battery life and wireless charging ensures that the Roam 2 is always ready for use, making it a reliable option for both everyday listening and spontaneous outdoor adventures.
The durable build and IP67 waterproof rating further enhance the performance of the Sonos Roam 2. The speaker can withstand dust, accidental drops, and even being submerged in water, making it a versatile option for a wide range of environments. Whether you’re using it in the comfort of your home or taking it on a rugged outdoor excursion, the Roam 2 is designed to endure the elements while consistently delivering high-quality audio.
User Testimonials and Reviews
Users have consistently praised the Sonos Roam 2 for its superior audio quality and ease of use. The speaker’s precision-engineered acoustics have received positive feedback for delivering rich, balanced sound across various music genres, making it a favorite among audiophiles. Many users also appreciate the portability of the Roam 2, highlighting how easy it is to carry around for outdoor activities, from beach outings to camping trips. The compact design and lightweight nature of the speaker make it a convenient choice for those who value both performance and mobility.
Another feature that users frequently commend is the Auto Trueplay technology. This smart feature automatically adjusts the sound output based on the environment, ensuring the best possible audio experience no matter where the speaker is used. Users have noted that this capability makes a significant difference when transitioning between indoor and outdoor settings, as the speaker adapts seamlessly to its surroundings. The automatic tuning feature is particularly appreciated by those who don’t want to manually adjust settings but still want optimal sound quality.
Despite the praise, some users have pointed out areas for improvement, particularly the battery life. While the Roam 2 offers up to 10 hours of continuous playback, a few users have mentioned that this may fall short during extended outdoor excursions or day-long events. For those who plan to use the speaker for longer periods without access to charging, this can be a limitation. However, many users still feel that the speaker’s overall quality and features outweigh this drawback, especially with the convenience of wireless charging as a compensating factor.
Sonos Ecosystem and Integration
One of the major benefits of the Sonos Roam 2 is its ability to integrate seamlessly with other Sonos products. Users have found that adding the Roam 2 to their existing Sonos setup is straightforward, allowing them to easily incorporate it into a larger multi-room audio system. This level of integration is one of the standout features of the Sonos brand, and the Roam 2 is no exception. It effortlessly connects to other Sonos speakers, creating a synchronized listening experience that enhances the overall quality of home entertainment.
The multi-room audio setup is a feature that many users value, particularly those who already own other Sonos products. Being able to control audio playback across multiple rooms using the Sonos app is a convenience that has been well-received. Users can group the Roam 2 with other speakers, ensuring that music flows seamlessly from room to room, which is ideal for parties or simply for enjoying music throughout the house. The ability to use the Roam 2 as both a portable speaker and a part of a home audio system adds significant value to its versatility.
Another aspect that users appreciate is the Roam 2’s compatibility with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This integration not only allows for voice control of the speaker itself but also enables it to act as an extension of a broader smart home setup. Users have highlighted how this functionality adds a layer of convenience, allowing them to control other smart devices in their home through simple voice commands. The Roam 2’s ability to seamlessly fit into both the Sonos ecosystem and a smart home environment makes it a highly versatile and attractive option for tech-savvy users.
Pricing and Value for Money
At its current price point, the Sonos Roam 2 is considered a premium product in the portable speaker category. While it may be more expensive than some of its competitors, many users believe that the quality of sound, build, and added smart features justify the cost. The audio performance, in particular, is often highlighted as being superior to other speakers in the same price range, making it a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize high-quality sound. The precision-engineered acoustics and the ability to deliver rich, immersive audio make the Roam 2 stand out in terms of performance.
In addition to the sound quality, the build and design of the Sonos Roam 2 contribute to its perceived value. The sleek, minimalist design not only looks great but also ensures durability with its IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating. Users have noted that the rugged build quality gives them confidence in using the speaker in a variety of settings, from indoor use to more adventurous outdoor activities. This combination of aesthetics and durability is a key factor that makes the Roam 2 a premium offering worth its price tag.
The smart features, including Auto Trueplay, voice assistant compatibility, and seamless integration with the Sonos ecosystem, further enhance the value proposition of the Sonos Roam 2. While it may come at a higher price compared to some other portable speakers, the added convenience and versatility make it a compelling choice for those looking for more than just basic audio playback. For users who are already invested in the Sonos ecosystem or are looking for a speaker that can do more than just play music, the Roam 2 offers excellent value for money despite its premium pricing.
FAQ
Is the Sonos Roam 2 waterproof? Yes, the Sonos Roam 2 is IP67 rated, meaning it is both waterproof and dustproof. It can be submerged in up to one meter of water for up to 30 minutes, making it ideal for outdoor use, poolside parties, and beach outings.
How long does the battery last on the Sonos Roam 2? The Sonos Roam 2 offers up to 10 hours of continuous playback on a full charge. Battery life can vary depending on the volume level and usage, but it is designed to provide reliable performance for day trips and extended listening sessions.
Can I use voice assistants with the Sonos Roam 2? Yes, the Sonos Roam 2 is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Users can enable voice control through the Sonos app, allowing them to control playback, adjust volume, and even manage other smart home devices using voice commands.
Does the Sonos Roam 2 support multi-room audio? Absolutely. The Sonos Roam 2 can be integrated into a multi-room audio setup with other Sonos products. Using the Sonos app, users can group the Roam 2 with other speakers to create a synchronized audio experience throughout their home.
How do I charge the Sonos Roam 2? The Sonos Roam 2 supports both USB-C wired charging and wireless charging. Users can charge it with a USB-C cable or use a compatible Qi wireless charger for added convenience. Wireless charging is especially useful for those who want to avoid dealing with cables.
Conclusion
In summary, the Sonos Roam 2 is an excellent choice for those looking for a portable speaker that offers outstanding sound quality, robust durability, and seamless integration with a broader smart audio system. Whether you’re an audiophile seeking premium audio on the go or a casual listener looking for a reliable speaker, the Sonos Roam 2 delivers a top-tier experience. Its ability to adapt to different environments through features like Auto Trueplay ensures that users can enjoy optimal sound quality regardless of location, making it a versatile companion for both indoor and outdoor activities.
The integration capabilities of the Sonos Roam 2 are another key aspect that sets it apart. For those already invested in the Sonos ecosystem, this speaker offers a seamless way to expand your audio setup. Its compatibility with multi-room audio systems and voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant makes it more than just a portable speaker; it becomes an integral part of your smart home setup. This level of connectivity adds convenience and value, especially for users looking to create a cohesive and interconnected audio experience across multiple rooms.
In terms of design and practicality, the Sonos Roam 2 stands out with its sleek, compact form factor and IP67 waterproof rating. These features make it suitable for a wide range of environments, from home use to adventurous outings. The long battery life and wireless charging capabilities further enhance its portability and ease of use, ensuring that it is always ready when you need it. The build quality, combined with its smart features, makes the Sonos Roam 2 a worthwhile investment for those seeking a portable speaker that is both stylish and highly functional.
Our recommendation is clear: if you are looking for a high-quality portable speaker that combines premium sound, smart features, and robust integration capabilities, the Sonos Roam 2 is an excellent choice. Its versatility, coupled with its seamless integration with the broader Sonos ecosystem, makes it a standout product in the portable speaker market. Whether you are a music enthusiast or simply someone who values high-quality sound wherever you go, the Sonos Roam 2 is well worth considering. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more updates, product reviews, and tips to make the most out of your audio experience.
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