If you’ve ever shopped around for audio electronics, there’s a good chance you’ve seen the brands Sonos and Bose. They’re two of the most prominent audio equipment manufacturers, so you may be wondering if one makes better products.
When comparing Sonos vs. Bose speakers, both have a lot going for them — their focus is where they differ. Sonos focuses primarily on manufacturing home audio equipment, while Bose has a broader range of products.
Shop this article: Sonos Arc, Sonos Move 2 and Bose Smart Soundbar 700
Sonos was founded in 2002 and is known for multi-room audio products. Specifically, the company specializes in manufacturing high-end home speakers but has branched out a bit and now makes portable smart speakers.
If you want a home speaker system, you can’t go wrong with Sonos. Its speakers deliver outstanding sound with excellent bass, perfect for a home theater setup or a home music hub.
The most significant advantage Sonos offers is connecting multiple speakers in your home that can be controlled from one place. For example, you can have a set of speakers in your living room, bedroom and basement, and control them all from your smartphone without adjusting any connections. If you’re streaming music from your smartphone in one room, you can easily switch to another room at the touch of a button.
Sonos also has a couple of excellent portable speakers that include similar connectivity features.
Sonos products are notorious for being expensive. Some argue that the sound quality and premium features are worth the cost, but you’re better off looking elsewhere if you’re working with a budget.
Also, Sonos speakers work better with Apple’s iOS operating system, so if you have an Android smartphone or tablet, you might find that some features aren’t as functional.
The Arc is Sonos’ top-tier soundbar. It creates an immersive 3D effect so you can experience sounds like explosions, planes and whispers with breathtaking clarity, as if you’re in the movie. It features Dolby Atmos Music for high-quality sound and can be controlled in several ways, including the Sonos smartphone app and AirPlay 2.
The Five is a home speaker that delivers intense lows and studio-quality acoustic sound. It’s excellent for listening to music, and it has TruePlay tuning technology that automatically adjusts the sound based on the environment. It's controllable using the Sonos app and Apple AirPlay 2.
The Sonos Move speaker was the brand's first portable Bluetooth model, and its second iteration is better than ever. The Move 2 delivers on all ends with impressive sound quality thanks to TruePlay tuning, as well as water resistance and several smart features. It has a battery life of up to 24 hours and can sync with your other Sonos speakers. This Sonos wireless speaker can be controlled using your voice, the Sonos app or Apple AirPlay 2.
This Sonos Bluetooth speaker is the brand's most affordable offering. It delivers big sound for its size, with a lightweight, portable and waterproof design. It has a 10-hour battery life and can be controlled using the Sonos app or Apple AirPlay 2.
Sonos speakers sound terrific on their own, but adding a subwoofer is a game-changer. This subwoofer will create a more immersive, detailed sound by amplifying the bass, letting your other speakers accentuate the highs and mids. It’s easy to set up over Wi-Fi and can be paired with an additional subwoofer for an even better audio experience.
Bose has been around since 1964, so it’s the more established, recognizable brand, offering several top-quality audio products. It makes home speakers and soundbars, but is also a top manufacturer of headphones and portable speakers.
Bose products are known for their rich sound, and although Bose is a top audio equipment brand, many of them are more affordable than Sonos equivalents. A Bose home theater speaker setup will cost you less than the same setup would if you went with Sonos.
Also, Sonos doesn’t make headphones, but Bose does, in styles including over-ear, noise-canceling, sport, wireless and earbuds.
Bose speakers come with a universal remote, but it’s not nearly as intuitive as Sonos’ smartphone app. Bose speakers also are less interactive than Sonos speakers, so while you can have multiple Bose speakers spread through your home, you won’t be able to seamlessly control them all as you would with a Sonos home multi-room setup.
Thanks to its elegant tempered-glass top and metal grille, this soundbar looks fantastic, and it sounds even better behind several custom drivers and intuitive audio technology. It provides excellent surround sound and is compatible with Alexa, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
This Bose Bluetooth speaker is loaded with features and delivers excellent wall-to-wall sound. The speaker is compatible with Alexa, AirPlay 2 and Wi-Fi, and multiple users can personalize their experience with the Bose app.
Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II)
This Bose wireless speaker delivers impressive 360-degree sound. The built-in microphone lets you take calls and control the music using Alexa devices. You can sync multiple compatible Bose speakers for bigger sound. This Bose portable Bluetooth speaker has a 17-hour battery life, a durable, water-resistant build and a convenient carrying handle.
The Bose SoundLink Micro speaker is one of the brand's most budget-friendly models. Small yet powerful, it delivers loud sound and deep bass for its size. It's waterproof with a six-hour battery life and a built-in microphone. You can connect this Bose mini speaker with other compatible speakers for extra sound.
These wireless surround sound speakers and the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 are a match made in heaven. This Bose wireless Bluetooth speaker set offers excellent 360-degree cinematic sound and only takes a few minutes to set up.
Sonos has a more streamlined approach to its home speakers, so they're your best bet if you want a seamless listening experience. However, Bose offers plenty of other products in addition to soundbars and home speakers, so Bose gives you more options.
Both brands deliver when it comes to audio quality. Sonos products are a little pricier, but many customers love them for their durability and functionality. Ultimately, you should work within your budget to customize your listening experience the way you want.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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