ReviewFinder Portable Bluetooth Speakers

Sonos Play 5

TLDR: The Sonos Play 5 is a high-end wireless smart speaker that offers exceptional sound quality and is best used indoors or in a covered outdoor area, making it ideal for large rooms.
Consumer sentiment:
In comparison:
Sonos Play 5 rank #148 out of 189. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
7.9
Great

Customers appreciate the excellent sound quality, wireless streaming, and ease of use but dislike the high price point, limited equalizer program, lack of outdoor speakers and wireless headphones, and potential difficulties with setup and importing iTunes playlists.

The product receives great reviews on average (consumer score 7.9). This is below the median bluetooth speaker consumer score of 9.1.

About consumer score

Price:
The lowest price we found for Sonos Play 5 is $738, available here. This is above the median bluetooth speaker price of $131.99.
  • Lowest price: $13.91
  • Median price: $131.99
  • Highest price: $1413.63
  • Sonos Play 5 price: $738
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ReviewFinder: reviews, prices and alternatives summarized by a powerful AI engine.

Expert consensus

The Sonos Play 5 is a high-end wireless smart speaker that offers exceptional sound quality and is best used indoors or in a covered outdoor area, making it ideal for large rooms.

The Sonos Play 5 is a high-end wireless smart speaker that offers exceptional sound quality with crystal clear vocals, deep and rich bass, and a wide-open soundstage. It is best used indoors or in a covered outdoor area, making it ideal for large rooms. The speaker is not designed for portability, as it weighs 14 pounds and has dimensions of 8.03 by 14.33 by 6.06 inches.

It is meant to be a stationary speaker for use in a home or office setting. The Sonos Play 5 is a well-built and durable speaker that is suitable for indoor use. It has Wi-Fi connectivity and can be connected directly to a router using an Ethernet cable or wireless connectivity.

The Sonos wireless mesh network technology allows users to connect multiple Sonos devices together to create a seamless audio experience throughout their home. The Play 5 is ideal for those who want a high-quality speaker for their home that can be controlled through multiple devices and can be paired with other Sonos products for a wider and more immersive soundstage.

Sound quality

The Sonos Play 5 is a high-end wireless smart speaker that offers exceptional sound quality with crystal clear vocals, deep and rich bass, and a wide-open soundstage, making it an excellent choice for those who value high-quality sound and immersive listening experiences.

The Sonos Play 5 is a high-end wireless smart speaker that offers exceptional sound quality with crystal clear vocals, deep and rich bass, and a wide-open soundstage. The mid-range is also praised for being soulful and attention-grabbing. The speaker is bass-biased, providing a dynamic, immersive sound that improves the listening experience across various musical genres and streaming audio formats.

The maximum volume output is impressive, with little to no distortion even at high volume levels. The Play 5 is best used indoors or in a covered outdoor area, as it is not waterproof or weather-resistant. It is ideal for large rooms and can be controlled from multiple devices, with the ability to play different songs in different rooms at the same time or pump one song perfectly synced throughout your home.

Overall, the Sonos Play 5 is an excellent choice for those who value high-quality sound and immersive listening experiences.

What is the bass performance of Sonos Play 5?

According to various product reviews in our database, the bass performance of Sonos Play 5 is impressive and deep. Reviewers have described it as "slightly bass heavy", "booming lows", "deep and rich", and "punch in the lows", among others. The Play 5 can handle low frequencies down to 25 Hz before the speakers give out, according to a review on TNW. However, it's worth noting that some reviewers have mentioned that the Play 5 lacks thunderous bass and that Sonos sells a separate sub for that. Overall, the bass performance of the Sonos Play 5 appears to be excellent, but it ultimately depends on one's personal preferences and needs.
Based on 14 quotes from 10 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the clarity of sound on the Sonos Play 5?

According to various product reviews in our database, the Sonos Play 5 has exceptional sound quality with crystal clear vocals and high frequencies. The mid-range is also praised for being soulful and attention-grabbing. The bass is deep, bold, and not muddled. The sound is full, rich, and impressive at all volume levels with no distortion, even at high volume. Overall, the Sonos Play 5 has a warm and lively sound with every layer and detail captured perfectly.
Based on 16 quotes from 13 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the maximum volume output of the Sonos Play 5?

According to a product review on iMore, the Play:5 at its maximum volume can be heard clearly all over a two-story house, and even at quite a distance outside the house, with little to no distortion. Another product review on TNW states that it's almost unbelievable how loud the new Play:5 can go without distorting music. Unfortunately, there is no specific information on the exact maximum volume output of the Sonos Play 5.
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the sound quality specifications and features of the Sonos Play 5 speaker?

The Sonos Play:5 is a high-end wireless smart speaker that features six amplifiers with six dedicated speaker drivers, which allows it to produce pure, brilliant sound in even the largest rooms. According to reviews from experts, the sound quality is exceptional with a wide-open soundstage and a full body, providing a dynamic, immersive sound that improves the listening experience across various musical genres and streaming audio formats. The speaker is also bass-biased, providing deep and rich bass. The Play:5 also offers some useful features, including the ability to play different songs in different rooms at the same time or pump one song perfectly synced throughout your home. Additionally, it can be controlled from multiple devices, and its app is designed to connect to streaming services and all your music.
Based on 17 quotes from 11 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the sound quality of Sonos Play 5 and how does it perform in outdoor environments?

According to reviews in our database, the Sonos Play 5 has exceptional sound quality, with deep and rich bass, crisp vocals, and a wide-open soundstage. However, it is not recommended to expose the speaker to outdoor environments as it is not waterproof or weather-resistant. It is best to use it indoors or in a covered outdoor area.
Based on 14 quotes from 11 sources [show quotes and sources]

Battery life

The Sonos Play 5 is a wired speaker that requires a constant power source and does not have a battery or power-saving features.

The Sonos Play 5 is a wired speaker that needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet at all times to function. Therefore, it does not have a battery or any power-saving features to extend battery life. The speaker can be used while charging, and according to the Sonos website, it can be used while plugged in and charging or unplugged and running on its rechargeable battery.

Overall, the battery life of the Sonos Play 5 is not applicable as it is not a portable speaker. It is designed for use in a fixed location where it can be plugged into a power source.

What is the battery life of Sonos Play 5 on a single charge?

I'm sorry, but Sonos Play 5 is not a portable speaker and needs to be plugged into a power source at all times, so it does not have a battery.

What is the charging time for Sonos Play 5?

Sonos Play 5 is a wired speaker, so it does not require charging. It needs to be plugged into a power source at all times.

What power-saving features does the Sonos Play 5 have to extend its battery life?

I'm sorry, but the Sonos Play 5 is not a portable speaker and it doesn't have a battery. It needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet to work. Therefore, it does not have any power-saving features to extend battery life.

What is the battery life of Sonos Play 5 when used at different volume levels?

Sonos Play 5 is not a battery-powered speaker. It needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet to function.
Based on 5 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]

Can the Sonos Play 5 be used while charging?

Yes, the Sonos Play 5 can be used while charging. The speaker comes with a power cord that can be plugged into an outlet to charge the speaker while in use. According to the Sonos website, the Play 5 can be used while plugged in and charging, or unplugged and running on its rechargeable battery.

Portability

The Sonos Play 5 is not designed for portability, but it does have a bass port that doubles as a carrying handle for easier movement within a home or office.

The Sonos Play 5 is not designed for portability, as it weighs 14 pounds and has dimensions of 8.03 by 14.33 by 6.06 inches. It is meant to be a stationary speaker for use in a home or office setting. However, it does have a bass port on the back that doubles as a carrying handle, making it easier to move around within a home or office.

There are no official accessories from Sonos to make carrying the speaker easier.

What are the dimensions and weight of the Sonos Play 5?

The Sonos Play 5 measures 8.03 by 14.33 by 6.06 inches and weighs 14 pounds.
Based on 6 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the weight and size of the Sonos Play 5 and how does it affect its portability?

The Sonos Play 5 weighs 14 pounds and has dimensions of 8.03 by 14.33 by 6.06 inches. According to the review on Pocket-lint, the Play:5 is a home speaker and not meant to be portable, so its size and weight may not be ideal for carrying around. It's designed to be a stationary speaker for use in a home or office setting.
Based on 4 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Sonos Play 5 come with a handle or strap for easy transport?

The Sonos Play 5 does not come with a handle or strap for easy transport. However, according to a product review on athomeinthefuture.com, the bass port on the back doubles as a carrying handle.
Based on 10 quotes from 8 sources [show quotes and sources]

Are there any accessories available for Sonos Play 5 that can make carrying the speaker easier?

The Sonos Play 5 itself has a bass port on the back that doubles as a carrying handle, so it's already designed with portability in mind. However, there are no official accessories from Sonos to make carrying the speaker easier.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the dimensions and weight of the Sonos Play 5 speaker?

The Sonos Play 5 speaker weighs 14 pounds and has dimensions of 8.03 by 14.33 by 6.06 inches. According to expert reviews on liquidaudio.com, MacRumors, PCMag, Pocket-lint, and Engadget, the speaker has a solid, well-built feel and a minimalistic and contemporary aesthetic that will suit any setting.
Based on 9 quotes from 6 sources [show quotes and sources]

Durability

The Sonos Play 5 is a well-built and durable speaker with a solid cabinet, engineered grille, and smart design, suitable for indoor use.

The Sonos Play 5 is a well-built and durable speaker that features a solid, tight cabinet and a specifically engineered grille that allows sound waves to pass through freely. The speaker is made from plastic, which is a better material choice for sound than metal, and has a smart, sophisticated, and simple design.

While the speaker is not marketed as being particularly impact-resistant, it should be able to withstand everyday use and minor bumps or knocks. To ensure the longevity and durability of the speaker, it is recommended to keep it away from extreme temperatures, moisture, and direct sunlight, regularly clean it with a soft, dry cloth, and update its software regularly.

Overall, the Sonos Play 5 is a high-quality and durable speaker that is suitable for indoor use.

What materials are used in the construction of the Sonos Play 5 and how do they contribute to its durability?

The casing and front grille of Sonos Play 5 are made from plastic. According to a review on Pocket-lint, the plastic casing has a matte finish but a ceramic feel, which makes it lovely to touch and control. The front grille is built from a specifically engineered material that allows the sound waves to pass through freely. In a review on Gadget Review, it is mentioned that the second-gen Play:5 is solid and doesn't feel like Sonos skimped in manufacturing. The speaker has a tight cabinet that cuts down on resonation and rattling, and in turn, improves sound quality. Overall, the polycarbonate shell and the engineered grille contribute to making the speaker durable and well-built.
Based on 5 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

Has the Sonos Play 5 undergone any durability testing, and if so, what were the results?

I'm sorry, I do not have any information on specific durability testing for the Sonos Play 5. However, customers frequently mention the speaker's build quality as a positive aspect in their reviews, so it appears to be well-made and durable.

What specific features or design elements of the Sonos Play 5 contribute to its durability?

The Sonos Play 5 features a solid, tight cabinet that appears to be sealed, which helps cut down on resonation and rattling, improving sound quality, according to a product review on Gadget Review. The design of the Play 5 has been carefully considered, and every aspect of the speaker has been thought about, resulting in a smart, sophisticated and simple design, according to a product review on Pocket-lint. The Play 5 is made from plastic, which is a better material choice for sound than metal, according to Sonos. Additionally, the Play 5's curves that sweep around its edges and top before narrowing at the rear provide a more refined and futuristic identity, according to a product review on Pocket-lint. Overall, the design and construction of the Play 5 make it a durable and high-quality speaker.
Based on 7 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the durability and impact resistance of Sonos Play 5?

The Sonos Play 5 is a stationary speaker that is designed to be used indoors, so it is not marketed as being particularly durable or impact-resistant. However, the speaker is well-built and sturdy, so it should be able to withstand everyday use and minor bumps or knocks. If you are concerned about accidental damage, you may want to consider placing the speaker in a safer location or investing in a protective case.

What precautions or maintenance steps are recommended to ensure the longevity and durability of the Sonos Play 5 speaker?

According to the manufacturer, Sonos Play 5 speaker does not require any specific maintenance steps. However, to ensure the longevity and durability of the speaker, it is recommended to keep it away from extreme temperatures, moisture, and direct sunlight. Also, it is important to regularly clean the speaker with a soft, dry cloth to prevent dust buildup and keep it looking good. Additionally, it's important to update the speaker's software regularly to ensure optimal performance.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Connectivity

The Sonos Play 5 offers easy connectivity with Wi-Fi and Ethernet options, can connect to multiple devices simultaneously, and is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home products.

The Sonos Play 5 has Wi-Fi connectivity and can be connected directly to a router using an Ethernet cable or wireless connectivity. It can connect to multiple devices simultaneously via Wi-Fi and can store up to 16 different Wi-Fi networks.

While it does not have built-in voice control capacity, it is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home products. The setup process is straightforward using the Sonos app, taking only a few minutes. The Sonos wireless mesh network technology is also praised for its convenience.

Overall, the Sonos Play 5 is a great option for those looking for easy connectivity and the ability to connect to multiple devices.

What is the Bluetooth range of Sonos Play 5?

I'm sorry, but the Sonos Play:5 does not have Bluetooth as an alternative connection method. You need to connect it to your home Wi-Fi network using the Sonos app.
Based on 1 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does Sonos Play 5 have Wi-Fi connectivity?

Yes, the Sonos Play 5 has Wi-Fi connectivity. It can be connected directly to your router using an Ethernet cable or wireless connectivity is available. You can connect the Play:5 to your home Wi-Fi network and use the free Sonos app for Android, iOS, OS X, and Windows to control it. According to The Guardian, setting up the Sonos Play:5 is pretty straightforward using an iOS, Android or computer app.
Based on 12 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does Sonos Play 5 support voice assistant integration, and if yes, which voice assistants are supported?

While the Sonos Play 5 does not have built-in voice control capacity, it is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home products, which can control the speaker via voice. You can control the Play:5 with an Amazon Echo device or Google Home device though, or via a Sonos One, Sonos Move or Sonos Beam.
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Can the Sonos Play 5 connect to multiple devices simultaneously?

Yes, the Sonos Play 5 can connect to multiple devices simultaneously via Wi-Fi, and it can also store up to 16 different Wi-Fi networks. According to the review on MacRumors, you can play different songs from the same music service in different rooms or the same song in multiple rooms if you have more than one speaker.
Based on 5 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the ease of connectivity for Sonos Play 5?

According to multiple product reviews, the Sonos Play 5 is very easy to connect. It can be connected directly to your router using an Ethernet cable, or wireless connectivity is available. The Sonos wireless mesh network technology is brilliant and it also means you don't have to use up those precious router Ethernet ports or trail wires anywhere. Setting up the Sonos Play:5 is pretty straightforward using an iOS, Android or computer app. Plug the speaker into power, choose your network configuration – whether that’s a wireless or Ethernet connection to your router, or a wireless connection to any other Sonos product – and follow the instructions. The setup is simple with the Sonos app, taking 5 minutes tops and included connecting to the wireless network, updating the PLAY:5’s firmware, and using TruePlay tuning to tailor the sound to the space.
Based on 14 quotes from 10 sources [show quotes and sources]

Additional features

The Sonos Play 5 is a high-quality speaker that can be controlled through multiple devices and paired with other Sonos products for a wider and more immersive soundstage, but is not water-resistant and needs to be connected to a home Wi-Fi network to work.

The Sonos Play 5 is a high-quality speaker that is not water-resistant and does not have built-in voice control, but can be controlled through an Amazon Echo, Google Home, or other Sonos devices. It is compatible with other Sonos products and can be controlled through the Sonos app, allowing for seamless music playback throughout the house.

The Play 5 cannot be used as a portable Bluetooth speaker and needs to be connected to a home Wi-Fi network to work. Unique features include six amplifiers with six dedicated speaker drivers, TruePlay tuning technology, wireless music streaming through Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2 compatibility, capacitive touch controls, and stereo pairing functionality.

The Sonos Play 5 is ideal for those who want a high-quality speaker for their home that can be controlled through multiple devices and can be paired with other Sonos products for a wider and more immersive soundstage.

Does the Sonos Play 5 have water resistance?

According to the review on PCMag, the Sonos Play:5 is not water- or splash-proof.
Based on 1 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Sonos Play 5 have a built-in microphone for voice control?

According to product experts, the Sonos Play 5 has a microphone, but it does not have built-in voice control. However, it can be controlled with an Amazon Echo device, Google Home device, or via a Sonos One, Sonos Move, or Sonos Beam.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Is Sonos Play 5 compatible with other Sonos products, such as the Sonos app and other speakers in the Sonos ecosystem?

Yes, the Sonos Play 5 is compatible with other Sonos products and can be controlled through the Sonos app. Additionally, it can be grouped with other Sonos speakers to provide seamless music playback throughout the house, or in this case, join forces with another PLAY:5 to form a stereo pair. According to athomeinthefuture.com, this is the kind of feature that works flawlessly and all it takes is a few taps in the app to instantly broadcast your tunes to one, a few, or all of the Sonos products throughout your home.
Based on 18 quotes from 9 sources [show quotes and sources]

Can the Sonos Play 5 be used as a portable Bluetooth speaker, and are there any limitations on where it can be used?

No, the Sonos Play 5 cannot be used as a portable Bluetooth speaker as it does not have Bluetooth connectivity. According to HifiReport, Sonos wants to keep Bluetooth for portable speakers and have already done this in their Sonos Move Bluetooth speaker, which you can take outside the home and enjoy indoors. The Play 5 is designed to be used at home and needs to be connected to your home Wi-Fi network to work.
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the unique features of Sonos Play 5?

The Sonos Play 5 has several unique features, including: 1. Six amplifiers with six dedicated speaker drivers, producing an immersive, room-filling sound. 2. TruePlay tuning technology, which automatically adjusts the sound to the acoustics of your room for optimal performance. 3. Ability to control the speaker from multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. 4. Wireless music streaming through Wi-Fi, with the ability to play different tracks simultaneously in different rooms of your home. 5. AirPlay 2 compatibility, allowing you to cast audio straight from an iOS device to the speaker. 6. Capacitive touch controls for easy volume and playback control. 7. Stereo pairing functionality to create a wider and more immersive soundstage.
Based on 17 quotes from 12 sources [show quotes and sources]

Expert Reviews

There are people on the Internet whose job is to review products. Below are their opinions.

ReviewFinder database has 16 expert reviews of Sonos Play 5.

Expert reviews [16]

84
Total expert reviews: 16
  • with a score: 7
  • without a score: 9
Highest score by TechRadar
90
Average score based on 16 reviews
84
Lowest score by MacRumors
80

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20

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Portable Bluetooth Speakers above are offered because they are in the same price range as Sonos Play 5. To browse more budget and premium portable bluetooth speakers go to our bluetooth speaker ranking .

Position in ranking

We maintain a monthly ranking that sums up expert recommendations for all portable bluetooth speakers.

Rank Change Price Bluetooth Speaker
What Hi-Fi
SoundGuys
PCMag
Popular Mechanics
TechRadar
Rtings.com
Tom's Guide
WIRED
TechHive
Digital Trends
1
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JBL Charge 5
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1
1
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7
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12
2
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15
2
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Sonos Move 2
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2
-
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10
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5
-
5
4
3
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Sonos Roam
The Sonos Roam is a highly versatile and durable portable speaker that delivers excellent sound quality, with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, voice assistant integration, and unique features such as Automatic TruePlay and wireless charging.
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1
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11
10
-
3
4
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Tribit StormBox Micro 2
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3
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Sonos Play 5 did not receive any endorsements this month.

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ReviewFinder ranks based on a combination of customer reviews, expert reviews / mentions and popularity. Expert recommendations carry the highest weight in the ranking. We do not rank based on price, our commission or brand. portable bluetooth speakers below are at the top of our ranking this April.

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JBL Charge 5 Sonos Move 2 Sonos Roam Tribit StormBox Micro 2
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Tribit StormBox Micro 2 rank #4 out of 244. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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9.1
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The JBL Charge 5 is a durable and high-quality portable Bluetooth speaker with a well-balanced sound, long battery life, and PartyBoost feature, making it perfect for outdoor activities and gatherings.
Expert consensus not yet generated.
The Sonos Roam is a highly versatile and durable portable speaker that delivers excellent sound quality, with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, voice assistant integration, and unique features such as Automatic TruePlay and wireless charging. The Tribit StormBox Micro 2 is a durable and waterproof portable Bluetooth speaker with powerful sound, long battery life, and versatile connectivity options.
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ReviewFinder: reviews, prices and alternatives summarized by a powerful AI engine.