Full Breakdown
Sonos Play: A Comprehensive Review of the New Portable Speaker
4/21/2026, 12:08:26 AM
Overview of the Sonos Play
The Sonos Play is a newly launched portable speaker designed to serve as a versatile audio solution for various environments, from home to outdoor settings. Priced at £299 (€349/$299/A$499), it aims to restore consumer confidence following a tumultuous period for Sonos, marked by a controversial app redesign in May 2024 that alienated many users. The Play integrates both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, allowing it to stream music from multiple sources and connect seamlessly with other Sonos devices.
Design and Features
Weighing 1.3 kg and measuring 192.3 x 112.5 x 76.7 mm, the Play is compact yet robust, featuring an IP67 water resistance rating that ensures durability in various conditions. Its design includes a detachable carry loop that doubles as a stand, playback buttons, and a USB-C charging port. The speaker houses a woofer and two tweeters, delivering a sound profile that balances bass and clarity, although it struggles with deep bass compared to larger models like the Move 2.
The Play boasts a large 35Wh battery, offering up to 24 hours of playback on Bluetooth and more than a day on Wi-Fi. It can also function as a power bank for charging devices via its USB-C port. However, it does not include a mains charger, requiring users to purchase one separately.
Connectivity and Integration
The Play supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, allowing for seamless streaming from various music services, including Spotify and Apple Music. It can be grouped with other Sonos speakers for multi-room audio or paired with another Play for stereo sound. The Sonos app, which faced criticism in the past, has seen significant improvements, restoring many core features and enhancing overall functionality.
Sound Quality
The audio performance of the Play is commendable, producing a rich sound with good separation of tones. While it excels at moderate volumes, audio quality diminishes above 80%, making it less suitable for large gatherings. The speaker's automatic Trueplay tuning system optimizes sound based on room size and style, enhancing the listening experience.
Sustainability and Longevity
Sonos emphasizes sustainability in the Play's design, incorporating 26% renewable plastic and offering a replaceable battery that can last for 750 charge cycles. The company commits to providing a minimum of five years of software support for its products, ensuring longevity and continued functionality.
Criticism and Limitations
Despite its strengths, the Play has notable drawbacks. It lacks the low-end power of some competitors and is heavier than typical portable speakers, making it less ideal for travel. Additionally, while it offers a robust feature set, some users may find better value in alternative Bluetooth speakers that focus solely on portability.
Conclusion: Is the Sonos Play Worth It?
The Sonos Play represents a significant step forward for the company, combining the best elements of its previous models into a single, adaptable speaker. While it may not be the ultimate choice for every user, particularly those seeking a lightweight Bluetooth speaker, it stands out for its sound quality, durability, and integration within the Sonos ecosystem. For existing Sonos users or those seeking a versatile audio solution, the Play is a compelling option.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Verdict The Play is a return to form for Sonos: a jack of all trades that does as well at home as a compact bookshelf speaker as it does out in the garden streaming Bluetooth music from your phone.” — Samuel Gibbs, The Guardian
- “Few portable speakers sound this good, combining power, detail and a strong bass sound, while still being able to fit into a backpack.” — Macworld Review Team
- “The app still needs a little work then, but I can’t criticise the sound quality of the new Play.” — Macworld Review Team
- “It could be the only speaker you need.” — Samuel Gibbs, The Guardian
