Sonos Play review: An ideal portable speaker that I can't resist using.

      “Sonos revisited its designs and created an impressive hybrid speaker.”

      **Pros**

      - Sleek design and robust build quality

      - Offers powerful audio performance

      - Waterproofing is a valuable feature

      - Long battery life with a replaceable battery

      - Functions as a power bank

      **Cons**

      - No power adapter included in the retail packaging

      - Cannot be used for phone calls

      - Stereo pairing available only via Wi-Fi

      - Limited Bluetooth capabilities

      **Quick Take**

      Sonos has faced some challenges in recent years. The rollout of its 2024 app was problematic, leading to numerous complaints in support forums, and there was a prolonged quiet period in hardware releases that made me wonder if the company was taking a break from producing new speakers. Therefore, when the Sonos Play debuted at $299, I approached it with skepticism.

      After six weeks of using it as my main kitchen speaker, my go-to patio speaker, and an impromptu bathroom radio, I can affirm something I didn’t expect while opening the box: this speaker has the potential to win back disgruntled Sonos fans. It occupies a space between the Roam 2 and the Move 2, successfully combining the advantages of both.

      Priced at $299, it needed to stand out in a market filled with cheaper Bluetooth options and more expensive smart speakers, and somehow it succeeded. It sounds great, features a replaceable battery, serves as a power bank, and remains portable. However, it does have a tendency to favor Wi-Fi, which can sometimes be a functional drawback.

      **Sonos Play specifications: What to expect from this mid-range contender**

      - **Amplification**: Three class-H digital amplifiers tailored for the acoustic layout.

      - **Drivers**: Two angled tweeters for sharp highs and one mid-woofer for robust bass.

      - **Microphones**: Far-field array with beamforming and echo cancellation.

      - **Audio Tuning**: Automatic Trueplay and adjustable EQ (bass, treble, loudness).

      - **Battery Life**: Up to 24 hours of continuous playback; user-replaceable battery.

      - **Charging**: Includes Wireless Charging Base; supports USB-C PD (18W+).

      - **Durability**: IP67 rating (water-resistant up to 1 meter for 30 minutes) and drop-resistant.

      - **Connectivity**: Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n/ac) and Bluetooth® 5.0.

      - **Dimensions**: 192.3 x 112.5 x 76.7 mm (7.57 x 4.43 x 3 in).

      - **Compatibility**: Works with Sonos app (S2), Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify/TIDAL Direct Control.

      - **Controls**: Physical buttons for playback, volume, and a dedicated mic privacy switch.

      - **Sustainability**: Made from bio-based plastics and FSC-certified recyclable packaging.

      - **Box Contents**: Sonos Play speaker, Wireless Charging Base, and Quickstart Guide.

      **Sonos Play design and build quality: Stylish, sturdy, and portable**

      Upon picking up the Sonos Play, the first aspect that stands out is its weight. At 2.87 pounds, it feels heftier than expected, which is characteristic of well-crafted products. It measures just under eight inches in height, showcasing a stout cylindrical shape with a gentle taper and a polycarbonate mesh. The top features a soft matte finish that surprisingly resists fingerprints.

      My model came in white, with a black option available. I prefer the white version for its subtle integration into various interiors, whereas the black stands out more prominently. Overall, it embodies a design ethos of “mature audio,” allowing the speaker to blend seamlessly on a shelf or kitchen counter rather than demanding attention like some rugged portable speakers.

      The thoughtful details in the design reveal Sonos's dedication to quality. The top controls are tactile, physical buttons rather than sensitive touch sliders like those found on the Era line. This distinction is apparent when your hands are wet, during cold weather, or after a workout—situations where touch sliders can be frustrating.

      The rear includes a rubberized utility loop for easy transportation, which I found handy for moving the speaker around without concern of it slipping. This small feature proves valuable in daily use, emphasizing Sonos’s commitment to material quality.

      Durability is a significant aspect, as highlighted by its IP67 rating, ensuring the device is completely dust-proof and can survive submersion in water up to one meter for 30 minutes. However, let’s be realistic: you likely won’t want to test this by dropping it in a pool, especially since it doesn’t float—something that gives the Bose SoundLink Plus a slight edge.

      The tough mesh exterior and rugged internal construction have withstood accidental bumps during my testing without any visible damage. The design strikes a balance between home use and portability, allowing the