If you’re looking to upgrade your portable speaker, then you’re probably already familiar with the original Sonos Roam. The Roam series is quite unique in that it features both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, making it a smart speaker that’s just as portable as other Bluetooth-only models, but a lot more versatile and useful.
The features list includes your choice of Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa or Sonos voice control, sound beyond its size, direct access to Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, Sonos Radio, Amazon Music and more in the Sonos app, and Apple AirPlay 2 support which lets you “broadcast” audio directly from Apple devices on the same Wi-Fi network.
But the debut Sonos Roam wasn’t without some notable issues: It’s fairly expensive, its 10-hour battery life trails most of the competition, it doesn’t have a point to attach a carrying strap, and it can be difficult to set up if you value Bluetooth playback over Wi-Fi-based smart features. So what about the upgraded Sonos Roam 2?
Sonos Roam 2: Overview
Sonos Roam 2
Main Specifications
| size | 16.8 x 6.2 x 6cm |
|---|---|
| Weight | 430g |
| IP Rating | IP67 |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi and Bluetooth |
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours |
Sonos Roam 2: What’s changed?
The new Sonos Roam 2 is a subtle but well-thought-out update to the original Roam. It’s the main speaker I’d recommend to anyone looking for something more versatile than your average Bluetooth speaker, and while the slight changes aren’t revolutionary, they do address one of the first version’s smaller gripes.
The most notable improvement is the addition of a dedicated Bluetooth pairing button, which in my experience makes connecting to devices much easier than the previous model, which required a long press of the power button to pair. It’s a small change, but a worthwhile one.
There’s also been a slight design change, with the Sonos logo now in the same color as the speaker, meaning the Roam 2 matches Sonos’ recent product designs, but the functionality is the same — this speaker, like its predecessor, has a sleek look.
Sonos Roam 2: Features
But aside from these changes, it’s essentially the same product, so it’s no surprise that the price hasn’t changed with this update. Overall, the Roam 2 is very similar to its predecessor, but I already love that speaker and this model is no different.
It offers similarly great sound performance thanks to Sonos’ Trueplay technology, which optimizes audio depending on your surroundings, as well as voice control and Apple AirPlay 2 functionality. It also supports wireless charging, a feature not found on other Bluetooth speakers I’ve tested.
It still has a decent battery life of 10 hours (which is pretty long, but others last longer) and maintains an IP67 rating, making it waterproof and dustproof. It’s perfect for outdoor adventures, but it doesn’t have a strap, so you’ll need to make room for it in your bag or slip it into a water bottle pocket. I’ve tried this before with the old Roam and it was a perfect fit.
Sonos Roam 2: Sound quality
Like the original, the Roam 2 delivers strong bass and clear midrange, making it perfect for most genres of music I tested it in. It’s a fairly small speaker, so it’s worth keeping that in mind, and it might not have as much “room-filling” sound as some of the better options.
But it’s best thought of as a component within a Sonos multi-room audio system, where it really comes into its own when you want to “extend” the playlist playing in your living room and dining room to your backyard, for example. No other Sonos products are required for this multi-room functionality, as you can set it up with AirPlay 2 and link other compatible speakers, like an Apple HomePod or HomePod mini, for synchronized music playback.
As a standalone speaker, the Roam 2 is fine, but it can’t match the competition in terms of clarity and detail. Good HousekeepingWe’ve tested some of 2024’s best rivals, but if you’re happy with a Bluetooth-only speaker, the Bose SoundLink Flex and new Beats Pill offer a much more compelling sound experience.
Good Housekeeping reviews Sonos Roam 2 portable speaker
Overall, the Sonos Roam 2 is an improved version of the original speaker rather than a major upgrade: it has the same battery life (though Sonos claims it’s “optimized” the battery), the same connectivity, the same sound quality, and it’s priced higher.
Notable changes include the Bluetooth button and a slightly revised design. These are small improvements, but improvements nonetheless. If you’re already invested in the Sonos ecosystem with the Sonos Era 100 or Era 300, if you want a smart portable speaker, or if you want a user-friendly, versatile option beyond Bluetooth playback, this is a great choice.
However, if you already have a Roam, we wouldn’t recommend upgrading to this one as the changes are small, and it’s a bit disappointing that it still doesn’t come with a rope or strap for carrying.
We still recommend the Sonos Roam SL as a worthy alternative. It has all the great features of the Roam and Roam 2 but omits the microphone and voice control to keep the price down. At £159 it’s well worth considering. And if you’re not committed to the Sonos brand, there are other great Bluetooth-only models to check out, including the Bose SoundLink Flex, Beats Pill, JBL Flip 6 and Soundcore Motion 300.
Simon Cox is Technology Ecommerce Editor at Hearst UK, overseeing technology shopping content and strategy for a range of titles including: Good Housekeeping UK, Esquire UK, Digital Spy, Men’s Health UK and Women’s Health UK.
Simon specializes in testing the latest smart gadgets, home entertainment gear, headphones, speakers, portable chargers, radios, e-readers and smartphones. He has reviewed top tech products from brands such as Google, Apple, Amazon, JBL and Bose.
Simon graduated from Kingston University in 2014 with a degree in Magazine Journalism. discovery and Silk Road I wrote an article about entertainment for an in-flight magazine. Special Effects and Total FilmHe also contributed reviews and interviews. Twitch Films (later Screen Anarchy), Cult Box and Frame Rating.
He participated Good Housekeeping UK As an editorial assistant for special projects, Good HousekeepingFrom 2014 to 2019, she worked in the Consumer Affairs team at the Good Housekeeping Institute. In this role, she conducted price comparison research, wrote in-depth homemaking and money saving advice guides, and compiled thousands of in-depth reviews for the Good Housekeeping Institute.
He has been focusing on technology and gadgets since 2020, initially starting with testing power banks and instant cameras. He writes reviews, roundups, news articles and deal updates, and also covers the top tech deals during sales periods like Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, etc.
When he’s not trying out the latest gadgets, Simon can be found catching the latest movies at his local cinema or heading out and capturing images with his trusty point and shoot camera.
Follow Simon on Instagram @simonrcocks and on Threads @simonrcocks. @simoncocks on Twitter/X.
