The portable speaker market has evolved significantly in recent years, with manufacturers pushing the boundaries of what's possible in increasingly compact forms. Today we're comparing two compelling options that take different approaches to portable audio: the $79 Soundcore Boom 2 SE and the $139 Sonos Roam 2.
Portable speakers have come a long way from simple battery-powered units with basic Bluetooth. Modern speakers pack impressive audio technology, smart features, and rugged builds that make them versatile companions for both indoor and outdoor use. The key advances we're seeing include:
The Soundcore Boom 2 SE takes a power-forward approach with its 80W maximum output through a 50W subwoofer and dual 15W tweeters. This configuration, combined with passive radiators (which are like speakers without motors that move in response to air pressure), helps deliver impressive bass response for its size.
The Roam 2 uses a more refined approach with custom-designed drivers and sophisticated digital processing. While less powerful on paper at around 30W total output, Sonos's tuning expertise and automatic Trueplay technology (which adjusts the sound based on the speaker's surroundings) helps deliver balanced, room-filling audio.
Here's where we see the biggest philosophical difference between these speakers. The Boom 2 SE focuses on Bluetooth 5.3, offering excellent range (up to 100m) and stable connections. Its PartyCast 2.0 feature can link up to 100 compatible speakers - impressive for large outdoor events.
The Roam 2 offers both Bluetooth and WiFi, enabling it to function as both a portable speaker and part of a whole-home Sonos system. This dual-personality approach means it can stream high-resolution audio over WiFi at home and switch seamlessly to Bluetooth on the go.
After extensive testing, the Boom 2 SE proves itself as an outdoor powerhouse. Its BassUp feature noticeably enhances low frequencies, though sometimes at the expense of clarity. It excels at projecting sound across open spaces, making it ideal for pool parties or beach days.
The Roam 2 delivers more nuanced audio reproduction. Its automatic tuning helps it adapt to different spaces, and the sound signature remains consistently balanced whether you're listening to classical music or hip-hop. The bass isn't as powerful as the Boom 2 SE, but it's more accurate and controlled.
The Boom 2 SE's 20-hour battery life (at moderate volume) is impressive, especially considering its power output. The Roam 2's 10-hour rating feels limiting in comparison, though this reflects its more power-hungry smart features and processing capabilities.
Both speakers offer serious water protection:
The Sonos Roam 2 shines in smart home integration. It supports:
The Boom 2 SE focuses on core audio features but adds some fun elements:
While neither speaker is primarily designed for home theater use, the Roam 2's WiFi connectivity and Sonos ecosystem integration make it a viable surround speaker when paired with other Sonos products. The Boom 2 SE, while powerful, lacks the low-latency connection needed for synchronized audio in home theater applications.
The Boom 2 SE's longer battery life, higher volume capability, and robust build make it a superior outdoor companion. Its PartyCast feature is particularly impressive for large gatherings where multiple speakers might be needed.
The Roam 2's versatility makes it ideal for users who want one speaker that works seamlessly both at home and on the go. Its automatic switching between WiFi and Bluetooth means you never need to manually reconnect when leaving or returning home.
At $79, the Boom 2 SE delivers impressive value, offering:
The Roam 2's $139 price tag reflects its:
Choose the Boom 2 SE if you:
Choose the Roam 2 if you:
Both speakers represent different approaches to portable audio, and both excel in their intended use cases. The Boom 2 SE demonstrates how far "budget" speakers have come, delivering features and performance that would have cost significantly more just a few years ago. The Roam 2 shows how portable speakers can integrate into larger ecosystem plays, though at a premium price point.
Future updates will likely bring enhanced battery life to the Roam 2 and possibly smart features to the Boom 2 SE line, but for now, these speakers serve their target audiences well while maintaining distinct identities in an increasingly crowded market.
| Soundcore Boom 2 SE | Sonos Roam 2 |
|---|---|
| Price - Base cost comparison | |
| $79 (excellent value for features) | $139 (premium pricing) |
| Total Power Output - Impacts maximum volume and sound fullness | |
| 80W with BassUp enabled (great for outdoor use) | 30W (sufficient for personal listening) |
| Battery Life - Critical for portable use | |
| 20 hours (industry-leading) | 10 hours (below average) |
| Water Resistance - Important for outdoor durability | |
| IPX7 (waterproof, submersible) | IP67 (waterproof + dustproof) |
| Connectivity Options - Affects versatility and sound quality | |
| Bluetooth 5.3 only (100m range) | WiFi + Bluetooth 5.0 + AirPlay 2 |
| Multi-Speaker Features - Enables expanded use cases | |
| PartyCast links up to 100 speakers | Pairs with Sonos ecosystem for whole-home audio |
| Additional Features - Extra functionality beyond basic audio | |
| LED light show, power bank function, app EQ | Voice assistants, auto-tuning, smart home integration |
| Sound Architecture - Determines audio characteristics | |
| 50W subwoofer + dual 15W tweeters, passive radiators | Custom racetrack mid-woofer + tweeter with precision waveguide |
| Size and Weight - Affects portability | |
| Larger form factor (exact dimensions N/A) | Compact: 6.61 x 2.44 x 2.32 inches, 1.53 lbs |
| Primary Use Case - Best application for each device | |
| Outdoor gatherings, parties, high-volume situations | Home audio that extends outdoors, multi-room setups |
The Sonos Roam 2 is better for home theater use since it integrates with other Sonos speakers and can be part of a proper surround sound setup. The $79 Soundcore Boom 2 SE lacks the necessary low-latency connection for synchronized home theater audio.
The $139 Sonos Roam 2 offers more balanced, refined sound with automatic room tuning. The Boom 2 SE provides louder volume and stronger bass but less audio precision.
Only the Sonos Roam 2 can function as a proper surround speaker when paired with a Sonos soundbar. The Boom 2 SE isn't designed for synchronized home theater audio.
The Soundcore Boom 2 SE offers superior battery life at 20 hours, while the Roam 2 provides 10 hours of playback.
Both are highly durable, but the Roam 2 has slightly better protection with IP67 (dust and water) versus the Boom 2 SE's IPX7 (water only) rating.
The Soundcore Boom 2 SE is better for outdoor use with its longer battery life, higher volume output, and party features. The Roam 2 is more suitable for personal outdoor listening.
The Sonos Roam 2 can stream movie audio when connected via WiFi, making it suitable for home theater use. The Boom 2 SE experiences too much audio delay over Bluetooth for synchronized movie playback.
The Soundcore Boom 2 SE at $79 offers better value with its powerful sound and features. The Roam 2 at $139 justifies its higher price through smart features and ecosystem integration.
The Sonos Roam 2 offers superior smart features including voice assistants, automatic tuning, and smart home integration. The Boom 2 SE focuses on core audio features with app-based EQ control.
The Sonos Roam 2 is the only viable option for TV audio due to its WiFi connectivity and Sonos ecosystem integration. The Boom 2 SE isn't recommended for TV use due to Bluetooth latency issues.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: soundcore.com - gzhls.at - youtube.com - techradar.com - support.soundcore.com - digitaltrends.com - trustedreviews.com - soundguys.com - techradar.com - theshortcut.com - housebeautiful.com - youtube.com - cgmagonline.com - automatednow.com - bestbuy.com - nfm.com - creativeaudio.net - sonos.com - shop.menshealth.com - support.sonos.com - youtube.com - skybygramophone.com
