David Bridges
Seamless Connectivity Options: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | Voice Assistant Compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Sonos Voice Control | Maximum Power Output: 10W | Battery Duration: 10 hours | Dimensions: Height: 6.6″, Width: 2.3″
While many individuals may enjoy having a few strategically placed speakers within their home environment, the desire for a versatile audio solution that performs beautifully both indoors and outdoors is increasingly common. Fortunately, there are speakers available that effectively combine voice control capabilities with impressive audio playback in portable, weather-resistant designs. Among these options, the Sonos Roam stands out for its remarkable versatility and exceptional sound quality, making it a top choice for audio enthusiasts.
When utilized within your living space, the Sonos Roam functions seamlessly like any other Sonos speaker. It can easily integrate into an existing multi-room setup, allowing you to create a rich audio experience throughout your home. Alternatively, pairing two units for stereo playback enhances the listening experience even further. Compatible with both the Sonos Voice Assistant and Amazon Alexa, it supports virtually every prominent music streaming service. Despite its compact size, the Roam delivers impressive sound performance, offering a satisfying bass response and crisp highs, though it may not reach the clarity levels of larger models like the Sonos One or Era 100.
Designed with portability in mind, the Sonos Roam features a built-in battery and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to enjoy music wherever you go, even far from your Wi-Fi network. Its lightweight and compact design ensures easy transport, whether you’re moving it around the house or taking it on outdoor adventures. Notably, it is the first Sonos speaker to be fully waterproof, as well as resistant to dust and drops, giving you peace of mind when using it at the pool or beach.
The Roam boasts an impressive battery life of about 10 hours, whether you are connected via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. However, it’s worth noting that while many portable speakers offer longer battery life, if extended usage away from charging options is a priority for you, exploring other alternatives could be beneficial.
An alternative to consider is the $449 Sonos Move 2, which is significantly larger and louder than the Roam, reflecting its higher price point. This model serves as a notable upgrade over the original Move, featuring two tweeters that produce more nuanced sound, a battery capable of lasting over a full day, and redesigned touch controls on the top. Additionally, it includes a USB-C line-in jack, enabling you to connect a turntable for indoor use. If you prioritize power and superior sound quality over portability and have the budget for it, the Move 2 could be a more fulfilling choice compared to the Roam.
For those already invested in the Sonos ecosystem, a better option might be the $399 Bose Portable Smart Speaker. This speaker supports voice commands through Alexa and Google Assistant, and its Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to request music from popular streaming platforms like Spotify and Amazon Music. Its sound quality is well-balanced, and it features an IPX4-rated design along with a convenient carry handle, providing up to 12 hours of playback on a single charge, making it a great choice for outdoor gatherings.
Bose also offers an excellent alternative to the Roam with the $149 SoundLink Flex. This portable speaker supports commands from Siri and Google Assistant and boasts an IP67 rating, making it durable and compact, roughly the size of a small clutch bag. The SoundLink Flex delivers bright, dynamic audio and can pair with other speakers for stereo sound, making it a fantastic option for those seeking similar capabilities at a slightly lower price point than the Roam.
While this guide primarily focuses on smart speakers, it’s essential to acknowledge the many solid portable speaker options available that may have limited or no smart features at all. For those primarily interested in portability rather than a connected speaker ecosystem, we recommend exploring our comprehensive guide on the best portable Bluetooth speakers to discover a variety of options that cater to your specific needs.
Ethan Carter
