Are you considering investing in a high-quality wireless speaker system for your home, but are torn between the Sonos One and the Sonos One SL? You’re not alone! Both speakers are incredibly popular and offer a range of impressive features, but there are some key differences that might make one more suitable for your needs than the other. In this article, we’ll dive into the details and explore the differences between the Sonos One and the Sonos One SL, so you can make an informed decision.
Design And Build Quality
At first glance, the Sonos One and the Sonos One SL appear to be identical twins. Both speakers have the same sleek, compact design and are built with the same high-quality materials. They both feature a sturdy base and a removable grille that allows you to customize the speaker’s look to fit your home decor. However, there is one key difference: the microphone.
The Sonos One comes equipped with a built-in microphone that allows it to integrate seamlessly with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, enabling voice control and smart speaker capabilities. The Sonos One SL, on the other hand, does not have a microphone, which means it doesn’t support voice control or smart speaker features.
Microphone-Free For A Reason
So, why would anyone opt for a speaker without a microphone? The answer lies in security and privacy concerns. With the rise of smart speakers, there has been growing concern about the potential for microphone-enabled devices to collect and store sensitive user data. By omitting the microphone, the Sonos One SL offers a more private and secure listening experience for those who prioritize their privacy.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, both the Sonos One and the Sonos One SL deliver exceptional performance. They share the same internal components, including a pair of Class-D digital amplifiers, a tweeter, and a mid-woofer. Both speakers are capable of producing rich, detailed sound with deep bass and crystal-clear highs.
However, the Sonos One SL has a slight edge when it comes to sound quality. Because it doesn’t have to devote resources to powering the microphone, the SL is able to focus more energy on producing better sound. The result is a slightly more nuanced and detailed audio experience.
Trueplay Tuning
One of the standout features of both the Sonos One and the Sonos One SL is Trueplay tuning. This proprietary technology uses the speaker’s built-in microphone (in the case of the Sonos One) or an iOS device (for the Sonos One SL) to analyze the acoustics of your room and optimize the speaker’s performance accordingly. The result is a customized sound that’s tailored to your unique space.
Smart Speaker Features
As mentioned earlier, the Sonos One comes equipped with a built-in microphone, which enables voice control and smart speaker features. With Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant integration, you can use voice commands to control your music, adjust the volume, and even access a range of skills and integrations.
The Sonos One SL, on the other hand, does not support voice control or smart speaker features. If you want to control your music or adjust settings, you’ll need to use the Sonos app or the physical controls on the speaker itself.
Multi-Room Audio
One of the key benefits of both the Sonos One and the Sonos One SL is their ability to integrate with other Sonos speakers to create a seamless multi-room audio experience. Using the Sonos app, you can group multiple speakers together, play different music in different rooms, or synchronize your music across every room in your home.
| Feature | Sonos One | Sonos One SL |
|---|---|---|
| Microphone | Yes | No |
| Voice Control | Yes | No |
| Smart Speaker Features | Yes | No |
| Multi-Room Audio | Yes | Yes |
Pricing And Value
When it comes to pricing, the Sonos One and the Sonos One SL are similarly priced, with a small premium for the Sonos One. However, it’s essential to consider the value you’re getting for your money.
If you’re looking for a smart speaker with voice control capabilities, the Sonos One is the clear winner. However, if you’re willing to forgo voice control and prioritize sound quality and privacy, the Sonos One SL might be the better option.
A Word On Bundles
Sonos often offers bundles and promotions that can help sweeten the deal. For example, you might be able to get a discounted price on a pair of Sonos One SL speakers or a bundle that includes a Sonos One and a Sonos Beam soundbar.
Conclusion
So, what’s the difference between the Sonos One and the Sonos One SL? In a nutshell, the Sonos One offers voice control and smart speaker features, while the Sonos One SL prioritizes sound quality and privacy.
If you want a smart speaker with voice control capabilities, the Sonos One is the better option.
If you prioritize sound quality and privacy, the Sonos One SL is the way to go.
Ultimately, the choice between the Sonos One and the Sonos One SL comes down to your individual needs and preferences. By understanding the key differences between these two speakers, you can make an informed decision and enjoy an exceptional listening experience in your home.
What Is The Main Difference Between Sonos One And Sonos One SL?
The main difference between Sonos One and Sonos One SL is the presence of a microphone and voice assistant capabilities. Sonos One comes with a built-in microphone and supports popular voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing users to control their smart home devices and access various skills. On the other hand, Sonos One SL does not have a microphone and does not support voice assistants.
This difference in functionality is a key consideration for users who value the convenience of voice control or have invested in a smart home ecosystem. However, for those who prioritize audio quality and don’t need voice assistant capabilities, the Sonos One SL is a more affordable option that still delivers exceptional sound.
Is The Sound Quality Different Between Sonos One And Sonos One SL?
No, the sound quality of Sonos One and Sonos One SL is identical. Both speakers use the same Class-D digital amplifier, tweeter, and mid-woofer, which ensures that they produce the same high-quality audio. The drivers, tuning, and signal processing are all identical, so users can expect the same excellent sound performance from both speakers.
In fact, the only difference in hardware between the two speakers is the presence of a microphone in the Sonos One. This means that users can expect the same room-filling sound, deep bass, and clear vocals from both speakers, making them suitable for music lovers and audiophiles alike.
Can I Use Sonos One SL With A Smart Speaker That Has A Voice Assistant?
Yes, you can use Sonos One SL with a smart speaker that has a voice assistant. Although Sonos One SL does not have a built-in microphone or voice assistant capabilities, it can still be controlled using voice commands if you have a separate smart speaker with a voice assistant. For example, you can use an Amazon Echo or Google Home device to control your Sonos One SL.
This setup allows you to enjoy the benefits of voice control while still taking advantage of the Sonos One SL’s exceptional sound quality. You can use voice commands to play music, adjust the volume, and access various features on your Sonos One SL, making it a convenient and seamless listening experience.
Can I Upgrade My Sonos One SL To Support Voice Assistants?
No, it is not possible to upgrade your Sonos One SL to support voice assistants. The microphone and voice assistant capabilities are integrated into the hardware of the Sonos One, and these components cannot be added to the Sonos One SL. If you want voice assistant capabilities, you need to purchase a Sonos One or use a separate smart speaker with a voice assistant.
However, if you’re not concerned about voice control, the Sonos One SL is an excellent option that offers the same exceptional sound quality as the Sonos One at a lower price point. You can still control your Sonos One SL using the Sonos app, Apple AirPlay 2, or other compatible services.
Which Speaker Is Better Value For Money?
The Sonos One SL is generally better value for money if you don’t need voice assistant capabilities. It offers the same excellent sound quality as the Sonos One at a lower price point, making it a more affordable option for music lovers. However, if you value the convenience of voice control and smart home integration, the Sonos One may be worth the additional cost.
Ultimately, the choice between the two speakers depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a high-quality speaker that can integrate with your smart home ecosystem, the Sonos One may be the better option. But if you’re on a budget and prioritize sound quality above all else, the Sonos One SL is an excellent choice.
Can I Use Sonos One And Sonos One SL Together In A Stereo Pair?
Yes, you can use Sonos One and Sonos One SL together in a stereo pair. Both speakers are designed to work seamlessly together, and you can pair them in a stereo configuration using the Sonos app. This setup allows you to enjoy a wider soundstage and improved sound separation, which can enhance your listening experience.
When paired in a stereo configuration, the Sonos One and Sonos One SL will work together to produce a more immersive and engaging sound. You can use the Sonos app to adjust the stereo settings and optimize the sound for your specific room and listening preferences.
Is The Sonos One SL Compatible With Apple AirPlay 2?
Yes, the Sonos One SL is compatible with Apple AirPlay 2. Both Sonos One and Sonos One SL support AirPlay 2, which allows you to stream music from your Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, or Mac) to your Sonos speaker. This feature provides an easy way to stream audio content from your Apple devices to your Sonos One SL.
AirPlay 2 also allows you to control your Sonos One SL using the Apple device’s volume controls, making it convenient to adjust the volume and playback. Additionally, you can use AirPlay 2 to group multiple Sonos speakers together, allowing you to play music in multiple rooms or control multiple speakers from a single device.