Sonos Beam Gen 2 White
Score: 67/100
Vizio 5.1 Soundbar SE
Score: 74/100Rankings
The VIZIO 5.1 Soundbar SE delivers a full 5.1 surround experience with a wireless subwoofer and rear satellites, offering strong bass and Atmos support, but it lacks an optical input, a physical remote, and true height drivers.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a compact, Dolby Atmos-enabled soundbar that delivers immersive audio for small to medium rooms while integrating tightly with Alexa, Google Assistant and the Sonos ecosystem.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 180 Wbest | |
5 | 5.1best | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.88 kgbest | 7.269 kg |
12 monthsbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio Performance(2) | ||
Audio Channels | 5 | 5.1 |
Supported Audio Formats | Stereo PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos (via Dolby Digital Plus or TrueHD), Multichannel PCM | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS Virtual:X |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Soundbar Weight (kg) | 2.88 kg | 7.269 kg |
Mounting Type | Threaded | Wall mountable, QuickFit |
Power & Battery(1) | ||
Power Source | AC | Corded electric |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Optical Input | true | false |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consistently rate the Beam (Gen 2) as the top choice for small rooms, praising its Dolby Atmos performance, compact form factor and deep integration with the Sonos ecosystem, while noting its lack of DTS support, modest bass and the need for an eARC-compatible TV to unlock Atmos.
Everyday users love the Beam for its clear dialogue, easy setup and immersive Atmos feel in modest spaces, but many express frustration over the absence of Android Trueplay, thin bass and occasional voice-assistant lag.
“Crystal clear dialogue”
“Surprisingly immersive”
“Easy to set up and use”
Professional reviewers praise the VIZIO 5.1 Soundbar SE for delivering realistic surround thanks to its physical rear satellites and strong bass, while noting the lack of an optical input and that Atmos is simulated rather than driven by up-firing speakers.
Everyday users consistently highlight crisp dialogue, powerful bass, and immersive surround, while expressing frustration over the missing remote, occasional Bluetooth/subwoofer dropouts, and the clunky app interface.
