Bose Home Speaker 500
Score: 80/100
Sonos One 2019
Score: 80/100Rankings
The Bose Home Speaker 500 provides a premium stationary design with a wide stereo soundstage and low-latency Bluetooth for synchronized playback. Its lack of portability and limited multi-device Bluetooth support constrain usage scenarios. Perfect for users wanting high-quality indoor audio with voice assistants.
The Sonos One (Gen 2) is a compact, humidity-resistant smart speaker offering clear sound, three voice assistants, and Trueplay tuning. Its lack of Bluetooth and modest bass limit flexibility for some users. Ideal for existing Sonos owners seeking a small, voice-controlled speaker for kitchens or offices.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
| ↓ lower better | 57 msbest | — |
| ↓ lower better | 88 msbest | — |
| ↓ lower better | 25 Wbest | — |
63.5 mm | 89 mmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 2,110 g | 1,800 gbest |
— | 89 mmbest | |
8best | 6 | |
1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(1) | ||
Wi‑Fi Standard | 802.11 b/g/n/ac | 802.11b/g |
Audio(1) | ||
Driver Size (mm) | 63.5 mm | 89 mm |
Sensors(1) | ||
Microphone Count | 8 | 6 |
Build & Design(4) | ||
Weight (g) | 2110 g | 1800 g |
Height (mm) | 203 mm | 161 mm |
Width (mm) | 170 mm | 120 mm |
Depth (mm) | 109 mm | 120 mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Bose Home Speaker 500 for its exceptionally wide stereo soundstage, high maximum SPL, and premium build quality, noting it outperforms smaller Bose models for stationary use. However, they point out audio compression at full volume, the lack of portability due to AC-only power, and the absence of multi-device Bluetooth or wired outputs as notable drawbacks.
Everyday users love the immersive, room-filling sound and the sleek, modern look that fits into their décor, as well as the reliable voice assistants and straightforward app setup. Common complaints focus on the speaker's immobility, occasional bass distortion at high levels, and the missing ability to pair multiple devices or use wired connections.
Professional reviewers commend the Sonos One for its high-quality drivers, six-mic voice array and Trueplay tuning, emphasizing its superior sound and reliable wired connectivity compared to competing smart speakers. They also note the trade-offs of missing Bluetooth and modest bass output, positioning the device as a premium choice for users already invested in the Sonos ecosystem.
Everyday users love the easy setup, robust voice-assistant integration and clear, punchy audio, especially in kitchens and small rooms. Recurring frustrations center on occasional app glitches, the inability to stream via Bluetooth, and a desire for deeper bass without adding a subwoofer.
