For wireless speakers, Sonos consistently ranks high in terms of performance and reliability. Sonos has been in the industry for over two decades and has established a strong reputation with its Wi-Fi-connected hi-fi speakers, subwoofers, and soundbars. Two popular soundbar options from Sonos are the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) and the Sonos Ray.
Which Sonos soundbar is right for you? We’ve compared both models in terms of design, sound quality, price, and more to help you determine the best choice for your needs and budget.
Design
The Sonos Beam is available in black and white finishes and measures 25.6 inches wide, 2.7 inches tall, and 3.9 inches from front to back, weighing 6.2 pounds. The Sonos Ray, on the other hand, comes in black and white, measures 22 inches wide, 2.79 inches tall, and 3.74 inches from front to back, weighing 4.29 pounds. Both soundbars offer top-facing buttons for playback controls and track skipping, making them relatively compact and versatile for placement. The Sonos Beam appears to be the stronger and larger soundbar, but the Ray is also a solid option, especially for those with budget and space constraints.
Winner: Tie
Connections and Controls
The Sonos Beam is equipped with an HDMI ARC/eARC port, while the Sonos Ray features a digital optical connection. The Beam also supports voice controls and includes a mic, setting it apart from the Ray, which does not have built-in voice support. In terms of controls, the Beam takes the lead in this category.
Winner: Sonos Beam
Setup
Setting up a Sonos speaker is a straightforward process that requires the Sonos S2 app, power, and a Wi-Fi connection. Both the Beam and Ray can be easily set up using the Sonos app, with additional Trueplay support for iOS devices.
Winner: Tie
Sound Quality
Simon Cohen / Digital Trends
The Sonos Beam offers a more robust and immersive sound, especially with its support for hi-res audio formats like Dolby Atmos. It delivers a wide soundstage and powerful bass. On the other hand, the Sonos Ray provides a solid soundstage and clear audio, making it a great entry-level soundbar option.
Winner: Sonos Beam
Price
The Sonos Beam is priced at $429, while the Sonos Ray is available for $279. Both soundbars come with a one-year limited warranty, and they may be part of various speaker packages offered by Sonos.
Winner: Sonos Ray
The Verdict
For a more robust home-theater experience, the Sonos Beam is the clear choice. It offers a bigger soundstage, support for hi-res audio formats, and more immersive sound, making it suitable for small to medium-sized rooms. On the other hand, the Sonos Ray is a great entry-level soundbar, especially for those with space constraints and a limited budget.
Winner: Sonos Beam
Editors’ Recommendations
