After a period of minimal activity, Sonos has reemerged with two new consumer speakers: the portable Sonos Play and the cost-effective Era 100 SL. These products are now available for retail at $299 and $189, respectively, following their announcement earlier this month.
The new Sonos Play features a utility loop and a water-resistant design, making it suitable for both indoor use and outdoor activities. It also introduces Bluetooth grouping, allowing users to connect it with other Play or Move 2 speakers without needing Wi-Fi while on the move. In contrast, the Era 100 SL represents a streamlined version of the existing Era 100, omitting the microphone to accommodate those who do not require voice control capabilities.
Where to buy the Sonos Play
The Sonos Play is currently available in black or white from various retailers. This portable speaker fits between the Roam 2 and the larger Move 2 in size and functionality, serving effectively as both a standalone option and an extension to an existing Sonos setup. Its design is both portable and powerful, capable of filling larger spaces with sound, boasting up to 24 hours of battery life and an IP67-rated construction that defends against water and dust. Additional features include a removable loop, USB-C charging (note that a wall adapter is not included), and the ability to function as a power bank.
A key highlight of the Play is its Bluetooth grouping feature, which enables easy pairing with other Sonos speakers even outside of Wi-Fi range. During testing, it maintained a reliable connection for distances up to approximately 200 feet, though it does not provide stereo separation or full system synchronization as experienced over Wi-Fi. In terms of audio performance, the Play emphasizes clarity in the mid and high frequencies while still offering sufficient volume for most rooms or outdoor environments. For those seeking a stationary speaker, our A/V reviewer John Higgins recommends the original Era 100, but for a portable solution that delivers comparable performance, the Play is an excellent choice.
Where to buy the Sonos Era 100 SL
The Sonos Era 100 SL, serving as a more economical alternative to the original Era 100, provides a budget-friendly solution for consumers desiring quality sound without the additional features. Similar to the Play, it meets the essential requirements of a portable speaker while eliminating the microphone for voice assistance, thereby lowering the overall price.
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