Choosing the right speaker is very important for the best listening experience. Both Play 5 Gen 1 and Gen 2 come from a popular brand Sonos.
However, they are different in many respects. While some of their features are similar. A comprehensive comparison can reveal all the details.
This guide will give you a quick overview and detailed information about both products. So, in the end, you can decide which one is the best.
Important Note
Sonos Play 5 Gen 1 has been discontinued by the company. However, it is still available on Amazon.
Actually, it is an older speaker released in 2005. So, I believe it is not worth buying as compared to Sonos Play 5 Gen 2.
Major Differences
The major difference between the two products is software. Gen 2 has the latest and updated software while Gen 1 works on the older firmware. Further differences include size, design, audio quality, and control options.
Sonos Play 5 Gen 1 vs Gen 2: A Detailed Comparison
Here, I will do a side-by-side comparison of both Sonos speakers. Every feature, difference, and similarity will be explained in detail
1. Release
Gen 1 is an older version released in 2005. It is an entry-level speaker by Sonos. Wireless connectivity includes Bluetooth and Ethernet. It lacks a speakerphone and multiroom feature.
Gen 2 was released in 2015 which is 10 years after the launch of Gen 1. This model is installed with the latest firmware version. It is backward compatible with older Sonos speakers.
Hence, you can pair it with other Sonos speakers for playing music. Because it has the multiroom feature.
Moreover, it delivers high-end digital audio and can work with DVD players. Gen2 does not need an external amplifier.
2. Sound Quality
Gen 2 delivers higher-quality audio with added features. Because it can handle low latency. The firmware updates are frequent on it. Hence, it performs better as compared to Gen 1.
Because it has more drivers. Gen 2 has 6 amplifiers, 3 mid-woofers, 3 tweeters, and 0 woofers.
Gen 1 features 5 amplifiers, 2 mid-woofers, 2 tweeters, and 1 woofer. The sound output is powerful and room-filling.
So, if you want energetic sound for a big room, choose Sonos Play 5 Gen 2. Further, it is also a winner in terms of a wider soundstage, crystal clear audio, and high-definition sound.
Moreover, it has an impressive speaker array. However, Gen 1 is better in terms of bass performance.
3. Style and Look
Gen 1 is in the form of a square box. It has a glossy appearance and looks very elegant in black color. It can stand or lay flat on the table.
Gen 2 is slightly triangular and is made in a matte finish. So, it gives a professional look. Both versions are available in white and black colors. They are beautiful in their own way.
Because some people like a glossy finish while others prefer a matte finish. I think design does not make much difference if the audio quality is perfect.
4. Controlling Methods
Sonos Play 5 Gen 2 has more control options than Gen 1. Gen 1 has physical buttons while Gen 2 features touch controls. Moreover, it works with a Siri remote and accepts voice commands.
It is also equipped with a speakerphone. So, if it is connected to your phone, the system will notify you about incoming calls.
Hence, you can also do conference calls or family discussions. Gen 1 is supported by the smartphone app. Basically, it is a computer speaker. While Gen 2 is the smart speaker.
5. Connectivity Options
Gen 1 speaker is equipped with Bluetooth connection while Gen 2 lacks it. Both work with Alexa voice control. Gen 1 has a 3.5 mm aux-in jack and an Ethernet connection port.
So, you can connect the devices physically. Moreover, both can be linked to Pandora and Spotify for streaming.
Gen 2 connects wirelessly to Wifi and works with Apple AirPlay 2. Hence, both can work with the Internet.
6. Size and Weight
Sonos Play Gen 1 measures 4.8×14.4×8.5 inches. While the dimensions of Gen 2 are 14.3x8x6 inches. So, Gen 2 stands taller and larger than Gen 1.
There is a little difference between the size and dimensions of the two speakers. Play Gen 1 weighs about 8 pounds. So, it is portable and light. While Gen 2 weighs 14 pounds and is heavier.
However, both offer flexible placement options. They can sit on their bottoms or sides. In addition, the speakers can be mounted on the ball stand.
7. Price
Sonos Play Gen 2 is more expensive than Gen 1. Gen 2 costs around $800 and is very costly. However, the extra price is for the additional features.
These include more drivers, improved audio quality, and advanced control plus connectivity. Below, you can check the price of both as well as buy them from Amazon.
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Quick Comparison and Contrast Table
Here is the table for a brief and quick overview. It provides an immediate comparison of all the salient features of both speakers.
| Parameters of Comparison | Sonon Play 5 Gen 1 | Sonos Play 5 Gen 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2005- Discontinued by the company and is obsolete now. | First introduced in 2015. |
| Sound Performance | A good bass performance and sound output. | Equipped with more drivers. High-quality, crystal clear, and much better audio quality. |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wifi, and 3.5mm aux. Works with Pandora, Spotify, and Alexa. | Wifi, Alexa, Apple AirPlay2. It lacks Bluetooth. |
| Controls | Physical control buttons. Supported by app. Lacks speakerphone and voice remote. | On-board touch controls. Voice commands via Siri remote and built-in speakerphone. |
| Design | A square box with glossy finish. | Slightly triangular in shape and matte finish. |
| Size and Weight | Smaller and lighter with 8 pounds weight. Better for portability. | Weighs 14 pounds. Taller and heavier. |
| Price | Costs less but lacks some features. | Expensive but adds more drivers and features. |
FAQs About Sonos Speakers
There are many other speakers by Sonos. The following important questions will help you learn more about this brand and its products.
Are Bose speakers better than Sonos?
Both Sonos and Bose are high-quality speaker brands and ideal for upgrading TV sound. However, Bose is slightly better than Sonos in terms of surround sound. For example, the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 is preferable over the Sonos Playbar. Because Bose features a well-balanced sound profile and less compression at maximum volume. While Sonos speakers are specialized in enhancing speech and the human voice.
Why Sonos speakers are so popular?
Sonos is one of the best brands in the acoustic field. Because it ensures premium sound and supports a great number of streaming services. For example, Sonos is compatible with Pandora, Spotify, Tidal, SiriusXM, Stitcher, and many more apps and services.
Maximum how many Sonos speakers I cannot connect together?
You can make a Sonosnet in your home theater. Amazingly, you can connect 32 Sonos speakers to one master speaker. They can be connected through a dedicated and secure wireless connection called Sonosnet.
How many Sonos speakers are needed for a normal-sized room?
A single Sonos speaker is good for a normal-sized room. For instance, Sonos One is a smart and compact speaker. It has dual speakers that produce enough sound. However, 2 speakers are best for a medium-sized room. They make a stereo pair and deliver louder volume.
How can I turn OFF my Sonos speaker?
The Sonos speakers never turn OFF. Instead, they stay ON all the time. When not in use, the product enters into lower power mode. So, they use a negligible amount of energy. The idea behind this is to protect the user from inconvenience. Because turning OFF/ON will require repairing the speaker. Thus, they stay ON and ready to play always.
Can I connect two different Sonos speakers together?
If you want to enjoy surround sound, you can connect two Sonos speakers together. But, they should be from the same series. For example, Sonos One cannot make a surround pair with the Sonos Play. However, the other versions of Play such as Play 5 or 1 can be connected together.
Also read: The Trick to Play Your Own Music on Sonos Speakers
Final Words
The whole discussion suggests that Sonos Play 5 Gen 2 is better than Gen 1. Because Gen 2 is the latest model with many added features and improved audio performance. While Gen 1 is an older version and is obsolete now. So, preferably, you should buy Gen 2.
Last update on 2024-03-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
