Bose S1 Pro vs Sonos Play 5: Overview of expert opinions

In terms of bass performance, the Sonos Play 5 appears to have a more impressive and deep bass compared to the Bose S1 Pro. The Play 5 can handle low frequencies down to 25 Hz, while the Bose S1 Pro lacks a bit of low-bass and won't give you the window-shaking bass that a subwoofer would.

However, the Bose S1 Pro has a little extra boom in the high-bass that should please fans of EDM and hip-hop, while the Sonos Play 5 has been described as "slightly bass heavy" and "booming lows". 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.

Ultimately, the bass performance of both speakers depends on personal preferences and needs.

Both the Bose S1 Pro and Sonos Play 5 have exceptional clarity in their sound quality. The Bose S1 Pro produces a clear, crisp sound with no audible distortion or degradation. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy their music without any interference or noise.

The sound is evenly distributed, ensuring that every listener can enjoy the same sound quality regardless of their location.

On the other hand, the Sonos Play 5 has crystal clear vocals and high frequencies with a warm and lively sound. The midrange and bass are rich and booming, making it suitable for various musical genres and situations. The sound quality is exceptional, and the speaker is perfect for those who want to experience their music in a more immersive way.

Both speakers have their unique strengths, but they share the same exceptional clarity in their sound quality. The sound is evenly distributed, ensuring that every listener can enjoy the same sound quality regardless of their location. Whether you are a music lover or an audiophile, both speakers are great options that will provide you with an exceptional listening experience.

Based on the information available, it seems that the Bose S1 Pro has a higher maximum volume than the Sonos Play 5. The Bose S1 Pro can reach a maximum volume of 109dB, while there is no specific information on the exact maximum volume output of the Sonos Play 5.

However, it is important to note that the Bose S1 Pro is recommended for small to medium-sized venues or audiences of up to 50 people at its maximum volume. On the other hand, the Sonos Play 5 has been reported to be heard clearly all over a two-story house and even at quite a distance outside the house with little to no distortion.

Therefore, while the Bose S1 Pro may have a higher maximum volume, the Sonos Play 5 may be better suited for larger spaces or outdoor use. It is important to consider the intended use and size of the space when choosing between these two speakers.

Both the Bose S1 Pro and Sonos Play 5 are high-quality speakers that offer excellent sound quality. However, there are some notable differences between the two.

The Bose S1 Pro has a more neutral, balanced sound profile that works well across different genres. It provides a clear and crisp sound that is perfect for vocals and acoustic instruments. The speaker has a frequency range of 70Hz-16kHz at -3dB, which means it can produce a wide range of frequencies with accuracy and clarity.

On the other hand, the Sonos Play 5 is bass-biased and provides deep, rich bass. It is perfect for those who love to listen to music with a lot of bass, such as hip-hop or EDM. The speaker has a frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz, which means it can produce very low frequencies that the Bose S1 Pro cannot.

The Sonos Play 5 also offers more features than the Bose S1 Pro. It has the ability to play different songs in different rooms and can be controlled from multiple devices. This makes it a great choice for those who want to have a multi-room audio system or who want to control their music from their phone, tablet, or computer.

Overall, both speakers are excellent choices, but the choice between them will depend on personal preferences and needs. If you want a speaker that provides a neutral and balanced sound profile, the Bose S1 Pro is the way to go. If you want a speaker that provides deep, rich bass and has more features, the Sonos Play 5 is the better choice.

Based on sound quality alone, both the Bose S1 Pro and Sonos Play 5 are exceptional speakers. However, when it comes to outdoor use, the Bose S1 Pro seems to be the better option.

It has a longer battery life, can get loud enough for outdoor use, and has a well-balanced sound that works well in various situations and musical genres.

While it is not water-resistant, it is still a better option than the Sonos Play 5, which is not recommended for outdoor use at all.

Therefore, if you are looking for a speaker that can be used outdoors, the Bose S1 Pro would be the better choice.

In terms of battery life, the Bose S1 Pro clearly has an advantage over the Sonos Play 5 as it is a portable speaker with a battery life of up to 11 hours. The Sonos Play 5, on the other hand, is not portable and needs to be plugged into a power source at all times. Therefore, if portability and battery life are important factors for you, the Bose S1 Pro would be a better choice. However, if you are looking for a high-quality home speaker that does not need to be moved around, the Sonos Play 5 is a great option. Its sound quality is exceptional and it can be easily integrated into a home sound system.

Ultimately, the choice between the Bose S1 Pro and the Sonos Play 5 will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you need a portable speaker with a long battery life, the Bose S1 Pro is the way to go. If you want a high-quality home speaker that can be integrated into your sound system, the Sonos Play 5 is a great choice.

In terms of charging time, the Bose S1 Pro has a faster charging time than the Sonos Play 5. The Bose S1 Pro can fully charge in 2.5 hours with the Fast Charge option. This is a great feature for those who need to use the speaker on the go and don't have a lot of time to wait for it to charge.

On the other hand, the Sonos Play 5 does not require charging as it is a wired speaker. This means that it needs to be plugged into a power source at all times. While this may not be as convenient as a rechargeable battery, it does mean that you don't have to worry about the battery running out during use.

It is important to note that the Bose S1 Pro has a rechargeable battery that can provide up to 11 hours of operation. This is a great feature for those who need to use the speaker for extended periods of time without access to a power source. However, it is important to keep in mind that the battery life will depend on the volume and type of music being played.

Overall, both the Bose S1 Pro and the Sonos Play 5 have their own unique features when it comes to charging. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and how you plan to use the speaker.

When it comes to power-saving features, the Bose S1 Pro stands out as the clear winner. This portable speaker has been designed with two stages of power-saving features that help to preserve battery life. This means that users can enjoy longer listening times without having to worry about running out of power.

On the other hand, the Sonos Play 5 does not have any power-saving features. This is because it is not a portable speaker and needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet to work. While this may not be an issue for those who plan to use the speaker in a fixed location, it does mean that the Play 5 is not as versatile as the Bose S1 Pro.

In terms of battery life, there is a significant difference between the Bose S1 Pro and Sonos Play 5. The Bose S1 Pro is designed to be portable and can be used without being plugged into an electrical outlet. It has a rechargeable battery that can last up to 11 hours, but this can vary depending on the volume level.

At higher volumes, the battery life can be reduced to around 5 hours.

On the other hand, the Sonos Play 5 is not a battery-powered speaker and needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet to function. This means that it does not have a battery life and can be used for as long as it is plugged in.

Overall, if portability and battery life are important factors for you, then the Bose S1 Pro would be a better option. However, if you are looking for a high-quality speaker that does not need to be moved around and can be used for long periods of time, then the Sonos Play 5 would be a better choice.

Both the Bose S1 Pro and Sonos Play 5 can be used while charging, which is a convenient feature for those who need to use the speaker for extended periods of time. However, it is important to note that the Sonos Play 5 has a rechargeable battery, which means it can also be used unplugged for a certain amount of time.

This feature can be particularly useful for those who need to use the speaker in areas where there may not be a power source readily available. On the other hand, the Bose S1 Pro does not have a rechargeable battery and must be plugged in to use. This means that it may not be as portable as the Sonos Play 5, as it requires a power source to function.

Ultimately, the decision between the two speakers may come down to personal preference and specific needs. Those who require a speaker that can be used both plugged in and unplugged may prefer the Sonos Play 5, while those who prioritize sound quality and performance may prefer the Bose S1 Pro.

The Bose S1 Pro is slightly heavier than the Sonos Play 5, weighing in at 15 pounds compared to the Play 5's 14 pounds. However, the S1 Pro is also slightly larger, with dimensions of 13 x 9.5 x 11.2 inches (HWD) compared to the Play 5's 8.03 by 14.33 by 6.06 inches.

Overall, both speakers are relatively compact and portable, but the S1 Pro may be slightly bulkier to transport.

In terms of portability, the Bose S1 Pro is clearly the winner. It is designed to be a portable speaker and has a lightweight and compact form factor, making it easy to carry around. It also has an integrated carry handle, which adds to its portability. This feature makes it easy to grab and go, whether you're heading to a party, a picnic, or a backyard barbecue.

On the other hand, the Sonos Play 5 is not designed to be a portable speaker and is meant to be used in a stationary setting. While it is not as heavy as the Bose S1 Pro, it is still not as easy to carry around due to its size and weight. The Sonos Play 5 is a larger speaker that is meant to be placed on a shelf or table and left there.

It is not designed to be moved around frequently, and it does not have a built-in handle or other features that make it easy to transport. Therefore, if portability is a key factor, the Bose S1 Pro is the better option. It is designed specifically for on-the-go use, and it has all the features you need to take your music with you wherever you go.

Whether you're a musician, a DJ, or just someone who loves to listen to music on the go, the Bose S1 Pro is the perfect choice for you.

In terms of portability, the Bose S1 Pro is more convenient as it comes with a built-in handle on the top of the speaker. This makes it easy to carry around and transport from one location to another. The handle is sturdy and comfortable to grip, which makes it ideal for musicians and performers who need to move their equipment frequently.

On the other hand, the Sonos Play 5 does not come with a handle or strap. This means that it may be more difficult to carry around, especially if you need to move it over long distances. However, the bass port on the back of the speaker can be used as a makeshift handle. While this may be a useful feature, it may not be as comfortable to carry as the handle on the Bose S1 Pro.

Overall, if portability is a key factor for you, the Bose S1 Pro is likely to be the better choice. Its built-in handle makes it easy to carry around, and it is designed to be lightweight and compact. However, if you are willing to sacrifice some portability for superior sound quality, the Sonos Play 5 may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between these two speakers will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

In terms of accessories for carrying, the Bose S1 Pro has more options available than the Sonos Play 5. The backpack-style carry case and removable rechargeable battery are particularly useful for musicians or DJs who need to transport the speaker to different gigs.

The built-in carry handle and slip-on travel cover are also convenient for everyday use. On the other hand, the Sonos Play 5's bass port handle is a clever design feature, but it may not be as comfortable to hold for extended periods of time.

Overall, the Bose S1 Pro seems to have more versatility when it comes to carrying options. Its range of accessories makes it easier to transport and use in a variety of settings, whether you're on the go or just moving it around your home.

While the Sonos Play 5 is still a great speaker, it may not be the best choice if you need something that's easy to carry and transport.

Both the Bose S1 Pro and Sonos Play 5 are portable speakers that can be easily transported in a backpack or small bag. However, there are some differences in their size and weight that may affect their portability.

The Bose S1 Pro is slightly larger and heavier than the Sonos Play 5, which may make it slightly more difficult to carry around. It measures 13.1 x 9.4 x 11.1 inches and weighs 15.7 pounds, while the Sonos Play 5 measures 8.03 x 14.33 x 6.06 inches and weighs 14 pounds.

Despite the size and weight differences, both speakers are designed to be portable and can be easily transported to different locations. They both have built-in handles that make them easy to carry, and they can be set up quickly and easily.

When choosing between the two, it's important to consider your personal preferences and specific needs. If you prioritize sound quality and versatility, the Bose S1 Pro may be the better choice. It has a more powerful sound and can be used as a PA system, guitar amp, and more.

On the other hand, if you prioritize ease of use and compatibility with other devices, the Sonos Play 5 may be the better choice. It can be controlled with a smartphone app and can be integrated with other Sonos speakers to create a multi-room audio system.

Ultimately, both the Bose S1 Pro and Sonos Play 5 are excellent portable speakers that offer high-quality sound and portability. The choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Both the Bose S1 Pro and Sonos Play 5 are made of high-quality materials that contribute to their durability. The Bose S1 Pro has a black polypropylene plastic enclosure and a steel grille on the front, which feels solid and durable. The metal grille does an excellent job of protecting the drivers, and the cabinet is robust and dependable.

On the other hand, the Sonos Play 5 has a plastic casing with a matte finish and 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. The polycarbonate shell and the engineered grille contribute to making the speaker durable and well-built.

Overall, both speakers are well-constructed and durable, but the Bose S1 Pro may have a slight edge due to its steel grille and polypropylene plastic enclosure, which may be more resistant to wear and tear. However, the Sonos Play 5's polycarbonate shell and engineered grille are also high-quality materials that contribute to its durability.

Ultimately, the choice between the two speakers may come down to personal preference and specific needs.

Based on the available information, both the Bose S1 Pro and Sonos Play 5 appear to be well-made and durable speakers.

However, the Bose S1 Pro is not water, dust, or impact-resistant, which may make it less suitable for outdoor use or in environments where it may be exposed to these elements.

The Sonos Play 5 does not have any specific durability testing results available, but customer reviews suggest that it is a sturdy and reliable speaker.

Ultimately, the choice between these two speakers may come down to other factors such as sound quality, features, and price.

Both the Bose S1 Pro and Sonos Play 5 have features and design elements that contribute to their durability.

The Bose S1 Pro has a sturdy metal grille that protects the speakers, a black polypropylene plastic enclosure that is known for its durability, and a travel bag that aids in protecting the speaker while in transit. These features make the Bose S1 Pro a reliable choice for musicians and performers who need a speaker that can withstand the rigors of touring and live performances.

On the other hand, the Sonos Play 5 has a solid, tight cabinet that is sealed to cut down on resonation and rattling. The plastic construction of the Sonos Play 5 is better for sound than metal, as it does not interfere with the speaker's performance. Additionally, the Sonos Play 5 has a carefully considered design that is both smart and sophisticated, making it a great choice for those who want a speaker that looks as good as it sounds.

Overall, both speakers are built to last and are designed to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Whether you are a musician on the road or a music lover at home, the Bose S1 Pro and Sonos Play 5 are both excellent choices for those who want a durable and reliable speaker that delivers high-quality sound.

Overall, both the Bose S1 Pro and Sonos Play 5 are well-built and sturdy speakers that can withstand everyday use and minor bumps or knocks.

However, the Bose S1 Pro is more durable and impact-resistant than the Sonos Play 5, making it a better choice for outdoor use or travel.

If you are concerned about accidental drops or impacts, the Bose S1 Pro is the better option.

Both the Bose S1 Pro and Sonos Play 5 require similar precautions to ensure their longevity and durability. Both speakers should be kept away from extreme temperatures, moisture, and direct sunlight. Regular cleaning with a soft, dry cloth is also recommended to prevent dust buildup.

However, the Bose S1 Pro requires additional precautions due to its lack of waterproof, dust-resistant, and impact-resistant features. It's important to keep it away from elements such as water, dust, and excessive heat to prevent damage.

Overall, both speakers are built with high-quality materials and are designed to last, but proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure their longevity and optimal performance.

In terms of Bluetooth range, the Bose S1 Pro clearly outperforms the Sonos Play 5 as the latter does not have Bluetooth connectivity. The Bose S1 Pro can receive signals from up to 230 feet away, making it a great option for outdoor events or large indoor spaces.

However, it's important to note that the Sonos Play 5 offers other connectivity options such as Wi-Fi, which may be more suitable for some users. This allows for seamless integration with other Sonos speakers and the ability to control the speaker through the Sonos app.

Ultimately, the choice between these two speakers will depend on individual needs and preferences. If Bluetooth range is a top priority, the Bose S1 Pro is the clear winner. However, if a user values a more comprehensive connectivity experience, the Sonos Play 5 may be the better option.

In terms of Wi-Fi connectivity, the Sonos Play 5 is the clear winner as it offers the option to connect to Wi-Fi directly. This allows for more flexibility in terms of placement and eliminates the need for a Bluetooth connection.

The Bose S1 Pro, on the other hand, only offers Bluetooth connectivity which may limit its range and connectivity options. However, it is important to note that both speakers offer high-quality sound and other features that may be important to consider when making a purchasing decision.

When it comes to voice assistant integration, the Bose S1 Pro and Sonos Play 5 both require external devices to enable voice control. However, there are some differences in their compatibility with various voice assistants.

The Sonos Play 5 has a wider range of compatibility with voice assistants, as it can be controlled by Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Sonos devices. This means that users have more options when it comes to choosing a voice assistant that suits their needs. They can choose to use the voice assistant that they are most comfortable with or that they already have set up in their home.

On the other hand, the Bose S1 Pro can only be controlled by voice assistants through a connected device with Bluetooth connectivity. This means that users need to have a device that is compatible with their chosen voice assistant and that can connect to the Bose S1 Pro via Bluetooth.

This can be limiting for some users who may not have a compatible device or who may not want to use Bluetooth connectivity.

Overall, the Sonos Play 5 offers more flexibility and options for voice control. Its compatibility with multiple voice assistants means that users can choose the one that works best for them, while the Bose S1 Pro's reliance on Bluetooth connectivity may be limiting for some users.

Both the Bose S1 Pro and Sonos Play 5 can connect to multiple devices simultaneously, making them versatile options for users who like to switch between audio sources frequently.

However, the Sonos Play 5 has the added advantage of being able to 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.

This feature is not available on the Bose S1 Pro.

Both the Bose S1 Pro and Sonos Play 5 have excellent connectivity options, but there are some differences.

The Bose S1 Pro has Bluetooth connectivity, which is quick and easy to establish, and it can be paired with up to two devices simultaneously. The Bose Connect App is also available for iOS and Android devices, making it easy to control the speaker's functions.

On the other hand, the Sonos Play 5 can be connected directly to your router using an Ethernet cable or wireless connectivity, and it uses Sonos wireless mesh network technology, which is brilliant and doesn't require any additional wires. The setup process for the Sonos Play 5 is also straightforward, taking only a few minutes using the Sonos app.

Overall, both speakers have excellent connectivity options, but the Bose S1 Pro is more focused on Bluetooth connectivity, while the Sonos Play 5 offers more flexibility with both wired and wireless options.

Neither the Bose S1 Pro nor the Sonos Play 5 are water-resistant. Both speakers are designed for indoor use and caution should be taken when using them outdoors or near water.

It's important to note that water resistance is not a common feature in high-end speakers, as it can compromise the sound quality and design. Therefore, if water resistance is a priority, it may be necessary to consider a different type of speaker, such as a portable Bluetooth speaker designed for outdoor use.

In terms of built-in microphones for voice control, the Sonos Play 5 has an advantage over the Bose S1 Pro. While the Play 5 does not have built-in voice control, it can be controlled through various external devices that offer voice control. On the other hand, the Bose S1 Pro does not have a built-in microphone for voice control at all. However, the Bose S1 Pro does have a built-in 3-channel mixer that supports vocal mics, which may be useful for live performances or events.

Ultimately, the choice between these two speakers may come down to personal preference and specific needs, as both offer different features and capabilities. It is important to consider what you will be using the speaker for and what features are most important to you before making a decision. Whether you prioritize voice control or live performance capabilities, both the Sonos Play 5 and the Bose S1 Pro are high-quality speakers that can provide excellent sound and functionality.

In terms of compatibility with other Sonos products, the Sonos Play 5 is the clear winner. It can be seamlessly integrated into the Sonos ecosystem and controlled through the Sonos app. This means that users can easily add the Play 5 to their existing Sonos system and control it alongside their other Sonos products.

On the other hand, the Bose S1 Pro is not a part of the Sonos ecosystem and cannot be used with the Sonos app or other Sonos products. This means that users who already have Sonos products may find it more difficult to integrate the Bose S1 Pro into their system.

For those who already have other Sonos products and want to expand their system, the Sonos Play 5 is a better choice. It offers seamless integration and control through the Sonos app, making it easy to use alongside other Sonos products.

However, if compatibility with Sonos is not a priority, the Bose S1 Pro may still be a great option for its other features and capabilities. It offers high-quality sound, portability, and versatility, making it a great choice for musicians, DJs, and other professionals who need a powerful and flexible speaker system.

In terms of portability, the Bose S1 Pro is the clear winner as it can be used as a portable Bluetooth speaker with a long battery life. This makes it an ideal choice for those who need a speaker that they can take with them on the go. The Bose S1 Pro is lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for outdoor events, parties, and other occasions where you need to have music on the go.

On the other hand, the Sonos Play 5 is designed to be used at home and needs to be connected to Wi-Fi. This means that it is not as portable as the Bose S1 Pro and is better suited for use in a fixed location. However, the Sonos Play 5 offers superior sound quality and is designed for a more immersive listening experience at home.

The Sonos Play 5 is a high-end speaker that is designed to deliver exceptional sound quality. It features advanced audio technology that produces clear, crisp, and detailed sound. This makes it an ideal choice for those who are looking for a speaker that can deliver an immersive listening experience.

In addition to its superior sound quality, the Sonos Play 5 also has the added benefit of being able to connect to other Sonos speakers for a multi-room audio setup. This means that you can create a seamless audio experience throughout your home by connecting multiple Sonos speakers together.

Ultimately, the choice between these two speakers will depend on the user's specific needs and preferences. If you need a portable speaker that you can take with you on the go, then the Bose S1 Pro is the better choice. However, if you are looking for a high-end speaker that can deliver exceptional sound quality and can be used in a fixed location, then the Sonos Play 5 is the better choice.

While both the Bose S1 Pro and the Sonos Play 5 are high-quality speakers, they have different unique features that set them apart.

The Bose S1 Pro has a three-channel mixer, ToneMatch, and Bluetooth connectivity, making it a versatile choice for musicians and DJs. It also has a built-in rechargeable battery and Auto EQ feature, which adjusts the speaker's performance based on its position.

On the other hand, the Sonos Play 5 has six amplifiers with six dedicated speaker drivers, producing an immersive, room-filling sound. It also has TruePlay tuning technology, which automatically adjusts the sound to the acoustics of your room for optimal performance.

Additionally, it has wireless music streaming through Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2 compatibility, and stereo pairing functionality.

Overall, the Bose S1 Pro may be a better choice for musicians and DJs who need a portable speaker with multiple mounting configurations, while the Sonos Play 5 may be a better choice for those who want a high-quality speaker for their home with advanced features like TruePlay tuning and wireless music streaming.