Sonos has released a new portable speaker, the Play, positioning itself between the ultra-portable Roam 2 and the larger Move 2 in both size and performance. This launch is particularly significant given Sonos’ recent recovery from a problematic 2024 app overhaul, signaling a potential return to form for the audio company. The Play aims to balance portability with sound quality, addressing a gap in Sonos’ existing lineup.
Finding the Balance: Size and Portability
The Sonos Play strikes a good compromise between size and usability. Weighing 1.3 kilograms, it’s easily handheld, making it suitable for travel, gatherings, or simply moving between rooms. While not feather-light, its manageable weight is a clear improvement over the bulky 3-kilogram Move 2. The speaker features a subtle design, consistent with Sonos’ aesthetic – a black mesh exterior with an understated logo. Unlike the Move 2’s touch controls, the Play opts for physical buttons, potentially enhancing durability and weather resistance (rated IP67 waterproof). A discreet carrying loop is included, though its practical value is questionable.
Connectivity includes a USB-C port for wired listening (requiring a dongle) and a charging base similar to the Move 2, with USB-C charging also supported for on-the-go use.
Battery Life and Power Features
The Play offers up to 24 hours of battery life, matching the Move 2 and outperforming the Roam 2’s 10 hours. This makes it viable for extended use cases, such as camping or outdoor events, without constant recharging. Notably, the Play can act as a portable power bank, delivering 35Wh of power via USB-C to charge other devices in emergencies.
Sound Quality: A Step Below the Top Tier
While the Play delivers loud and clear audio, it doesn’t match the Move 2’s sonic fidelity. The sound is punchy and precise, with surprising bass depth for its size, but can become muddy at higher volumes or with complex musical arrangements. The Play utilizes one mid-woofer and two angled tweeters, powered by Class-H digital amps (compared to the Move 2’s more efficient Class-D amps). The larger mid-woofer in the Move 2 contributes to its superior sound quality.
A “Loudness” setting is enabled by default, boosting bass and treble, but disabling it results in a more balanced sound profile. The Play isn’t omnidirectional; optimal listening requires facing the speaker directly.
The App Experience: Improved but Still Imperfect
Sonos’ app overhaul in 2024 was initially disastrous, but the company has since addressed many issues. The current app is functional, although still imperfect. Adding new devices is easier, but navigation can be cumbersome. Searching for music requires specifying a streaming service (Apple Music, Spotify, or Sonos Radio), and finding albums can be indirect.
Minor UI quirks persist, such as redundant volume sliders, but the app’s core functionality remains solid. The primary advantage of the Sonos app is seamless multi-room audio control, allowing users to group speakers and adjust volume across their entire system. Voice assistant support is limited to Sonos’ own or Amazon Alexa.
Value and Conclusion
The Sonos Play fills a crucial niche in the portable Sonos speaker lineup, offering a balance of portability and sound quality. However, at $299 (U.S.) or €349 (Europe), it carries a significant price premium. If budget is a primary concern, alternatives exist at lower price points.
Despite the cost, the Play is a worthwhile investment for Sonos enthusiasts seeking a truly portable speaker that integrates seamlessly into their existing ecosystem. The Play isn’t an upgrade for Move 2 owners, but it is a welcome addition for those who prioritize portability over absolute sonic perfection.
