2 Best Sonos Soundbars with Wi-Fi, Compared
As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. This means we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you click through and make a purchase.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
Finding the best sonos soundbars with wi fi requires looking at the data. We compared 2 models based on published specifications. The Sonos Beam Gen 2 White Soundbar leads because its 25.6-inch width and 2.7-inch height fit compact rooms needing Dolby Atmos. This compact size delivers clear dialogue without the bulk of a full surround setup. Our picks focus on connectivity options like HDMI eARC and AirPlay 2. Use this guide to decide which soundbar matches your room size and audio needs.
Check width and height first
Sonos soundbars vary significantly in physical dimensions. The Beam Gen 2 measures 25.6 inches wide and 2.7 inches high. The Beam Ultra is 29.5 inches wide but only 2.56 inches high. Verify your shelf or cabinet space before buying. Both models support Wi-Fi and Dolby Atmos, but their footprints differ. Measure your area to ensure a proper fit.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sonos Beam Gen 2 White Soundbar Best overall | compact rooms needing Dolby Atmos | |
| 2 | Sonos Beam Ultra White Soundbar Also great | Clear dialogue and room-tuned audio |
The best fit for you
- You want the best overall compact Wi-Fi soundbar – Sonos Beam Gen 2 White Soundbar – It features Wi-Fi connectivity and Dolby Atmos in a 25.6-inch frame.
- You need clear dialogue and room-tuned audio – Sonos Beam Ultra White Soundbar – Its 9-driver array and Dolby Atmos support optimize vocal clarity.
- You prefer a low-profile white smart soundbar – Sonos Beam Gen 2 White Soundbar – It is 2.7 inches high, white, and supports AirPlay 2.
Sonos Beam Gen 2 White Soundbar
Best for: compact rooms needing Dolby Atmos
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, HDMI eARC, AirPlay 2, AirPlay
- Audio Format
- Dolby Atmos
- Features
- Dolby Atmos, Alexa
- Color
- White
- Type
- Smart
- Dimensions
- 3.9 × 25.6 × 2.7 inches
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a compact smart soundbar measuring 25.6 inches wide and 2.7 inches tall. It uses a 5-driver array to deliver Dolby Atmos 3D surround sound. You can control it via Wi-Fi, the Sonos app, or your TV remote. It supports AirPlay 2 and includes built-in Alexa. This setup suits you if you want clear dialogue and vibrant bass in a small footprint.
- Dolby Atmos 3D surround sound
- 5-driver array for vibrant bass
- Wi-Fi and AirPlay 2 connectivity
- Built-in Alexa voice control
- Compact 2.7-inch height
- Single soundbar unit without dedicated rear speakers
- Heavier at 6.35 pounds than some slim alternatives
- Limited to 25.6 inches width for wider rooms
- You want immersive Dolby Atmos sound
- You prefer Wi-Fi streaming over Bluetooth
- You need a compact 2.7-inch profile
- You require a full multi-speaker surround system
- You need a wider 40-inch soundbar
- You want a lighter unit under 5 pounds
Verdict: Sonos Beam Gen 2 White Soundbar fits you if you want a compact, Wi-Fi-enabled soundbar with Dolby Atmos. It delivers clear dialogue and bass without the bulk of a full surround setup.
Sonos Beam Ultra White Soundbar
Best for: Clear dialogue and room-tuned audio
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi
- Channels
- 7.1.2
- Audio Format
- Dolby Atmos
- Color
- White
- Dimensions
- 2.56 × 4.13 × 29.5 inches
- Weight
- 6.39 pounds
The Sonos Beam Ultra is a white Wi-Fi soundbar with 9 drivers and Dolby Atmos support. It features AI Speech Enhancement for clearer dialogue and Trueplay room tuning. The low-profile design measures 29.5 inches wide and weighs 6.39 pounds. It suits users seeking a compact unit with wide soundstage separation and multiroom audio capabilities.
- 9 drivers for enhanced audio output
- 7.1.2 Dolby Atmos with upward-firing drivers
- AI Speech Enhancement for dialogue clarity
- Trueplay room tuning technology
- Heavier build at 6.39 pounds compared to lighter competitors
- Single color option available in the base soundbar configuration
- You want AI-powered speech enhancement for clearer dialogue
- You need a low-profile soundbar that blends into the room
- You prefer Trueplay room tuning for optimized audio
- You require multiple color options for the soundbar itself
- You need a lighter unit for easy wall mounting
- You prefer a soundbar with fewer than 9 drivers
Verdict: Sonos Beam Ultra 9-Driver Soundbar fits users who prioritize dialogue clarity and room-tuned audio in a compact, low-profile design.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Sonos Beam Gen 2 White Soundbar | Sonos Beam Ultra White Soundbar |
|---|---|---|
| Channels | – | 7.1.2 |
| Audio Format | Dolby Atmos | Dolby Atmos |
| Connectivity | HDMI eARC, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, AirPlay 2 | – |
| Features | Dolby Atmos, Alexa | Dolby Atmos |
| Color | White | White |
| Type | Smart | – |
| Dimensions | 3.9 × 25.6 × 2.7 inches | 2.56 × 4.13 × 29.5 inches |
| Weight | 6.35 pounds | 6.39 pounds |
| Size | Pack of 1 | – |
| Model | BEAM2US1 | BMULTUS1 |
How to choose the right Sonos soundbar
Check Wi-Fi connectivity
Both models use Wi-Fi for streaming. This allows stable connection to your home network without cables. You get consistent audio quality during playback. Wi-Fi also enables software updates and multi-room audio features. If you prefer wired stability, consider HDMI eARC on the Beam Gen 2. This port handles high-bandwidth audio signals. It connects directly to your TV. Choose Wi-Fi for wireless flexibility. Pick eARC for direct TV integration. Both options support modern smart home ecosystems.
Verify Dolby Atmos support
Dol Atmos adds height channels for immersive sound. The Beam Gen 2 includes this feature. It creates a three-dimensional audio experience. You hear sounds from above and around you. The Beam Ultra also supports Dolby Atmos. This ensures compatibility with modern movies and shows. Check if your content library supports the format. Not all streaming services offer full Atmos tracks. Both soundbars decode the signal effectively. This spec matters for cinema-like audio at home. It enhances dialogue and action scenes significantly.
Consider voice assistant needs
The Beam Gen 2 includes Alexa built-in. You can control playback and smart devices hands-free. This adds convenience for routine tasks. The Beam Ultra does not list a voice assistant. It focuses on audio performance instead. If you want voice control, choose the Gen 2. If you prefer minimal features, the Ultra suits you. Voice assistants require internet access. They also need setup in the Sonos app. Decide if this feature is essential for your daily use.
Measure width for placement
Width determines where the soundbar fits. The Beam Gen 2 is 25.6 inches wide. It fits under most standard TVs. The Beam Ultra is 29.5 inches wide. It requires more horizontal space. Measure your TV stand or shelf carefully. Ensure there is enough clearance on both sides. A wider bar may look better on larger screens. A narrower bar fits smaller setups. Both are white, matching common decor. Check your available space before purchasing. Proper fit ensures optimal sound dispersion.
Evaluate height constraints
Height affects how the bar sits on surfaces. The Beam Gen 2 stands 2.7 inches tall. It has a standard profile. The Beam Ultra is only 2.56 inches high. It is extremely low-profile. This design helps it sit flush on shelves. It also reduces visual obstruction. If you have limited vertical space, the Ultra is ideal. The Gen 2 offers more internal components. Both fit standard entertainment centers. Check the clearance above and below the unit. Proper height ensures stable placement and good acoustics.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Sonos Beam Gen 2 support Dolby Atmos?
Yes, it includes Dolby Atmos support. This feature allows for height channels, creating a more immersive sound field. You get spatial audio that enhances movies and games. It also connects via HDMI eARC for high-quality digital audio transfer. The compact size makes it easy to fit in smaller living spaces.
Is the Sonos Beam Ultra compatible with voice assistants?
The product data lists Alexa as a feature for the Beam Gen 2. For the Beam Ultra, specific voice assistant details are not provided in the published specifications. You should check the manual for exact compatibility. Both models use Wi-Fi for stable streaming and network connectivity without extra cables.
How wide is the Sonos Beam Ultra soundbar?
The Sonos Beam Ultra measures 29.5 inches in width. It is slightly wider than the Beam Gen 2, which is 25.6 inches wide. The Ultra is also very low profile at 2.56 inches high. These dimensions help it sit neatly on most entertainment centers. Verify your shelf space before purchase.
Can I use AirPlay 2 with the Sonos Beam Gen 2?
Yes, the Beam Gen 2 supports AirPlay 2. This allows you to stream audio directly from your Apple devices. You can also use standard AirPlay for compatible content. Wi-Fi connectivity ensures stable streaming. This feature integrates well with other Apple ecosystem devices for seamless playback.
What connectivity options does the Sonos Beam Gen 2 have?
It offers Wi-Fi, HDMI eARC, AirPlay 2, and AirPlay. HDMI eARC provides a single cable solution for video and audio. Wi-Fi enables stable network streaming and software updates. AirPlay 2 supports high-quality audio streaming from iOS devices. These options cover most home theater connection needs without extra hubs.
Which soundbar is better for dialogue clarity?
The Sonos Beam Ultra is noted for clear dialogue and room-tuned audio. It features a 9-driver array to optimize vocal clarity. This design helps voices stand out against background noise. The Beam Gen 2 also delivers clear dialogue but focuses on compact Dolby Atmos performance. Choose the Ultra if vocal precision is your top priority.
Is the Sonos Beam Gen 2 a smart soundbar?
Yes, it is classified as a smart soundbar. This means it connects to your home Wi-Fi network. You can control it via apps and voice commands. It supports software updates for new features. The smart functionality allows for multi-room audio and integration with other smart home devices.
