Get that perfect sound with a smart speaker!
The two wireless speakers we’ll discuss today allow you to take advantage of voice assistants such as Alexa or Google Assistant, while also providing the ability to connect to multiple types of audio sources, as well as additional functionality.
Today, we’ll be looking at Sonos One vs. Bose Home Speaker 500, and the benefits that each model brings.
We can already say that you can expect an impressive audio output from either model, as well as integration with Alexa and Google Assistant for hands-free control.
However, there are quite a few differences when it comes to software compatibility, music streaming, display options and more, so read on to find out!
Feel free to skip any part you prefer using our navigation system below.
Sonos One vs. Bose Home Speaker 500 — Differences
Difference #1: Audio Quality – In terms of audio quality, Bose Home Speaker 500 does impress us with its well-defined sound, with a very wide soundstage. Since it uses two custom drivers that are pointed in opposite directions the sound will be bounced off the walls, filling the whole room with powerful 360° stereo sound that will liven up any party, or enhance your movie night.
While Sonos One produces a mono output only, it still produces clear and vibrant sound with its in-built tweeter and mid-woofer for that soul-shaking bass that will bring your Jazz collection to life.
You can also choose to pair up two Sonos speakers for a stereo output that’s hard to beat!
Difference #2: LCD Display – Bose 500 also includes a sleek, aesthetic LCD display which clearly shows the track playing, as well as the time which adds an aesthetic touch to the device.
While Sonos features a more simplistic design that doesn’t feature a display of any sort.
Difference #3: Internet Streaming – Using the Bose Music and Sonos app, you have the handy ability to access countless internet music streaming platforms where you can enjoy listening to your favorite podcasts, audiobooks, artists, and more, with the touch of a button!
However, while both models include the more popular platforms such as Deezer, Amazon, iHeartRadio, Spotify, SiriusXM, and Pandora, Sonos One includes over 50 different streaming partners that you can access, providing a lot more options than with Bose Music.
Difference #4: Humidity Resistance – If you want to bring your party outside to the pool, kitchen or even enjoy your favorite songs while in the shower, Sonos One has you covered! As it’s humidity resistance ensures that you won’t have to worry about having outside on a hot day. However, this doesn’t mean that it’s waterproof, so ensure that it doesn’t catch any water splashed.
Unfortunately, Bose Home Speaker should only be used indoors as it’s not weatherproof nor humidity resistant.
If you wish to own a smart speaker that is both portable and waterproof, you should check out the Sonos Move, the ideal accompaniment for campers and outdoor adventurers.
Difference #5: Trueplay – Sonos One is compatible with Trueplay, which is a type of software that allows a Sonos speaker owner to tune it accordingly to the room it’s in, so you can enjoy your party bops and movies they are meant to!
But keep in mind this software is only available to iOS users.
Trueplay isn’t compatible with Bose Smart Speakers.
Difference #6: Privacy – We all like our privacy, which is why Sonos One included a microphone button on the top panel of the speaker that you can tap to turn the microphone on or off whenever you wish.
Difference #7: AUX Port – Enjoy your favorite Netflix Show, or Disney+ in a whole new way, with your Bose 500 Smart Speaker.
As it includes an AUX port which you can connect with the TV and enjoy stereo sound from the latest blockbuster.
While Sonos One isn’t designed to be connected to your TV, you have the option of using Apple Airplay 2 if your TV is compatible.
Difference #8: Network – A stable network connection is pretty vital when it comes to setting up and operating your new smart speaker.
Bose Home Speaker 500 is definitely more flexible with its ability to use either a Bluetooth connection or a 2.4GHz and 5GHz WiFi.
While Sonos One can be set up using Bluetooth, but can only run on a 2.4GHz Wifi network, with the added option of plugging it directly into your router with an Ethernet cable which Bose 500 doesn’t have.
Difference #9: Size & Design – In terms of dimensions, Bose Smart Home Speaker 500 is bulkier with its measurements of 6.7” x 4.3” x 8”, comparing with Sonos One 6.36” x 4.69” x 4.69”.
Making Sonos easier to place on a small shelf or the coffee table.
Also, both Sonos and Bose speakers provide a modern look with a white or black tone, which is nicely paired with any home’s decor.
Difference #10: Price – Price-wise, Sonos One is definitely the more budget-friendly option when compared to Bose.
While it may not have the stereo capabilities unless paired with another Sonos One speaker, it still produces an impressive sound for almost half the price.
Sonos One vs. Bose Home Speaker 500 — Comparison Chart
| Sonos One | Bose Home Speaker 500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Audio | Two-Digital Class D Amplifiers, One Tweeter & One-mid Woofer |
2 Custom Drivers |
| Microphone | 6 microphone Array | 8 Microphone Array |
| LCD Display | N/A | Yes |
| Adjustable Bass & Treble | Yes | Yes |
| Stereo Output | Only when paired with another speaker |
Yes |
| Internet Streaming Services Supported | 50 + | Spotify, Deezer, iHeartRadio, Pandora, SiriusXM, and Amazon |
| Humidity Resistant | Yes | No |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Trueplay | Yes | N/A |
| Privacy Feature | Yes | N/A |
| Built-In Alexa | Yes | Yes |
| Google Assistant | Yes | Yes |
| App Control | Yes | Yes |
| Network | WiFi, 2.4GHz | WiFi, 2.4GHz & 5GHz |
| Apple Airplay 2 | Yes | Yes |
| AUX Out Port | No | Yes |
| Ethernet Port | Yes | N/A |
| Dimensions | 6.36” x 4.69” x 4.69” | 6.7” x 4.3” x 8” |
| Finish | White & Black w/ Matte Grille |
White & Black |
Sonos One vs. Bose Home Speaker 500 — Things in Common
Adjustable Bass & Treble – Find the right tone with the adjustable bass and treble for both smart speakers.
This handy feature allows you to play with the sound so you can find the perfect bass tone to accompany your favorite track.
Built-In Alexa – Both Sonos One and Bose Home Speaker 500 come with Alexa already built-In, allowing you to take advantage of this handy voice assistant without the need for an Alexa-enabled device such as Echo or Echo Show 8.
This type of hands-free control allows you to easily operate your smart devices such as lights, cameras, or even order a pizza without lifting a finger!
Google Assistant – Additionally, both models are also compatible with Google Assistant as well for those of you who own a Google Home for extra flexibility.
Sonos One vs. Bose Home Speaker 500 — Accessories
Now that we have gone over both models, let’s check out some of the accessories that they offer.
For those of you who love playing with music and finding that perfect sound, take a look at the T8S Tonematch Mixer for your Bose Smart Speaker.
This handy addition allows you to control your music by offering studio-quality EQ and effects to match!
If you decide not to take advantage of your in-built Alexa addition, check out the which turns any ordinary device into a fully voice-operated smart appliance, that will allow you to set schedules, operate remotely and more, without even having to leave the couch.
For your Sonos One speaker, we recommend taking a look at the Sanus Wall Mount which allows you to tilt and swivel your smart speaker by 30º and 132º respectively, to get that perfect angle and sound.
And lastly, if you are worried about the network connection for your Sonos speaker and don’t like the idea of using an Ethernet cable, you can also take a look at the Sonos Boost, which acts as a WiFi extender for Sonos devices only.
Sonos One vs. Bose Home Speaker 500 — Our Thoughts
Both models have a lot to offer for our homes in terms of audio quality, compatibility, and hands-free control.
While Bose Smart Speaker 500 has certainly impressed us with its stereo audio capabilities, as well as the addition of an LCD display and AUX cord addition, we feel that Sonos One with its budget-friendly price tag and internet streaming options offer us a whole lot more.
Of course, if you want that stereo sound without having to buy two smart speakers, then Bose 500 is the choice to go for.
However, if you wish to build up a Sonos sound system, and want impressive audio without having to break the bank, then Sonos One is the better option for you.
Last update on 2024-04-18 at 05:05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
