The Sonos Roam 2 and the JBL Flip 6 are both are portable Bluetooth speakers with IP67 ratings, making them dustproof and waterproof. The Sonos Roam 2 integrates seamlessly into the Sonos ecosystem, offering Wi-Fi connectivity, voice assistant support, and automatic Trueplay tuning for optimized sound based on its surroundings.
In contrast, the JBL Flip 6 focuses on straightforward Bluetooth functionality, delivering robust, bass-forward audio with dual passive radiators, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings. The Flip 6 also has a longer battery life, providing up to 12 hours of playback compared to the Roam 2’s 10 hours. Additionally, the Flip 6 can achieve higher volumes with minimal distortion, enhancing its suitability for larger spaces or outdoor environments. The Roam 2 is more of a home speaker which provides advanced smart features and integration capabilities, while the Flip 6 emphasizes powerful sound and extended portability for outdoor use.
Specs Comparison
The Sonos Roam 2 measures 168 x 62 x 60 millimeters and weighs 430 grams, making it slightly more compact and lighter than the JBL Flip 6, which measures 178 x 68 x 72 millimeters and weighs 550 grams. In terms of battery life, the Flip 6 offers up to 12 hours of playback, while the Roam 2 provides around 10 hours.
The Sonos Roam 2 supports both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.2, allowing for integration into the Sonos ecosystem and enabling features like voice assistant support and multi-room audio. In contrast, the JBL Flip 6 relies solely on Bluetooth 5.1, focusing on straightforward wireless streaming without additional smart features. Both speakers deliver impressive sound quality for their size. The Roam 2 features a tweeter and a mid-woofer, delivering a balanced and refined sound profile. The Flip 6 is equipped with a woofer and a tweeter, along with dual passive radiators, resulting in a robust, bass-forward audio experience that performs well even at higher volumes.
Table Comparison
| Specification | Sonos Roam 2 | JBL Flip 6 |
| Dimensions | 168 x 62 x 60 mm (6.61 x 2.44 x 2.36 inches) | 178 x 68 x 72 mm (7 x 2.6 x 2.8 inches) |
| Weight | 0.43 kg (0.95 lbs) | 0.55 kg (1.21 lbs) |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours | Up to 12 hours |
| Charging Time | Not specified | Approximately 2.5 hours |
| Waterproof Rating | IP67 (dustproof and waterproof; can be submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes) | IP67 (dustproof and waterproof; can be submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes) |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | 5.1 |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | Yes | No |
| Voice Assistant Support | Yes (Amazon Alexa, Sonos Voice Control) | No |
| Audio Drivers | One tweeter and one mid-woofer | 45 x 80 mm woofer and 16 mm tweeter |
| Amplifiers | Two Class-H digital amplifiers | 20W RMS for woofer; 10W RMS for tweeter |
| Frequency Response | Not specified | 63 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Additional Features | Automatic Trueplay tuning; Apple AirPlay 2; Button controls; Drop resistant; Sound Swap; Adjustable EQ via Sonos app; Beamforming microphone system | PartyBoost (allows pairing with multiple compatible JBL speakers); USB-C charging; Removable carrying strap; Graphic EQ customization via JBL Portable app; Multi-device pairing; Outstanding portability; Better directivity for wider soundstage; Better-built with IP67 rating for dust and water resistance; Fully dust-tight and immersible in up to a meter of water for 30 minutes. |
Sound Comparison
The Sonos Roam 2 and the JBL Flip 6 deliver two very different listening experiences, and I tested them using a range of tracks to get a real sense of their sound signatures. I started with “Ventura Highway” by America, a song rich in acoustic guitar textures and vocal harmonies. The Roam 2 delivered a balanced and clear sound, handling the higher frequencies well. The vocals felt natural, and the guitar strums had a nice crispness without sounding sharp. However, when the bassline and drum kicks came in, I noticed that the low end felt a little restrained. The Roam 2’s tuning leans towards clarity and balance rather than deep, resonant bass, which made it great for the mids and highs but less impactful in the lower frequencies.
Switching to the JBL Flip 6 with the same track, the first thing I noticed was the weightier bass response. The dual passive radiators gave a much fuller and more immersive low end, which made the song feel warmer and more dynamic. The guitar strums didn’t have quite the same delicacy as they did on the Roam 2, but the overall sound had more energy, making it enjoyable in a different way. The mids and highs remained clear, though the bass emphasis slightly softened some of the finer vocal details. The Flip 6 has a V-shaped tuning, where the bass and treble are lifted, making it more exciting for casual listening but a little less accurate for nuanced tracks.
To push the speakers further, I played On The Run by TimeCop1983, a synthwave track that relies on deep, rolling bass lines and atmospheric synth pads. The Flip 6 handled this effortlessly, with deep, rumbling bass that made the song feel immersive. The Roam 2, while still delivering clear and clean sound, didn’t reach the same depth in the lower frequencies, making the song feel lighter. On the other hand, its ability to maintain detail in the mids allowed the synths and reverb effects to sound more spacious. In the end, if I were listening to acoustic, jazz, or vocal-heavy tracks, I’d lean towards the Roam 2 for its clarity and balance. For bass-heavy music like electronic, hip-hop, or pop, the Flip 6’s punchy and energetic delivery made a stronger impact. The choice really depends on what kind of sound experience you prefer.
Design Comparison
The Sonos Roam 2 has a clean, modern design with a slightly triangular shape that sits comfortably in your hand. The smooth matte finish gives it a premium feel, and at just under a pound, it’s lightweight enough to toss in a bag without thinking twice. The build feels solid, with a mix of plastic and silicone that gives it a durable yet refined look. The IP67 rating means it can handle dust and water, so I wasn’t worried about using it near the pool or taking it on a hike. The buttons on top are well-placed and easy to press, making volume and playback control effortless without having to pull out my phone. It blends into any setting, whether sitting on a desk or tucked into a backpack for a trip.
The JBL Flip 6, on the other hand, has a completely different vibe. It’s a little bigger and heavier than the Roam 2, but it still feels easy to carry around. The cylindrical design is classic JBL, wrapped in a tough fabric mesh with passive radiators exposed on both ends that make it look like it means business. Unlike the Roam 2’s smooth, minimal look, the Flip 6 feels rugged and ready to handle a bit of rough treatment. The IP67 rating gives it the same water and dust resistance as the Roam 2, so I didn’t think twice about bringing it to the beach. It also comes with a built-in strap, which is a nice touch for hanging it on a bike or backpack. The buttons are big and raised, so they’re easy to find and press even in low light or when you’re on the move.
I would say that the Sonos Roam 2 looks and feels more refined, making it a great option for someone who wants a speaker that fits seamlessly into a home setup but is still portable. The JBL Flip 6, with its bold, rugged design, feels more like an adventure speaker—something you’d throw in your bag without worrying about scratches or drops. Both are built to last, both can handle the elements, but their designs speak to different lifestyles. If you want something minimal and sleek, the Roam 2 is the way to go. If you want something tough and ready for action, the Flip 6 is a great pick.
The Verdict?
After testing both the Sonos Roam 2 and the JBL Flip 6, I would say that the Sonos Roam 2 feels like the smarter, more refined option with its sleek design, Wi-Fi connectivity, and automatic integration with the Sonos ecosystem. It’s great if you already use Sonos products or want a speaker that works well at home and on the go. The sound is clear and balanced, especially in the mids and highs, making it ideal for acoustic, jazz, and vocal-heavy tracks. However, it doesn’t deliver the same level of bass as the Flip 6, and its battery life is slightly shorter at 10 hours. If you’re looking for something that blends home use with portability and offers extra smart features, the Roam 2 is a solid choice.
That being said, personally, I would go with the JBL Flip 6. I think that for a portable speaker, sound and durability matter more than smart features, and the Flip 6 nails both. The bass is punchier, the volume gets louder without distortion, and the rugged design makes it feel ready for any adventure. With its 12-hour battery life and easy Bluetooth connectivity, it’s the kind of speaker you can take anywhere without overthinking it. It may not have Wi-Fi or multi-room audio, but for pure, fun, powerful sound, I’d choose the Flip 6. Overall, if you want a versatile speaker with smart capabilities, the Roam 2 is worth considering. But if you just want something that sounds great, lasts longer, and can take a beating, the Flip 6 is the better all-around option.