Sonos Ray vs. Beam vs. Sonos Arc
Following the release of the newest generation of the Sonos Beam (Gen 2), the gap between this and the Sonos Arc is ever closer. The Sonos Ray is the most notably different soundbar, supporting a maximum of Dolby Digital surround sound and using an Optical connection.
Thankfully it's fairly easy to determine which one is right for you.
First consider what TV screen size you have:
- If your screen is less than 50"/ doesn't have eARC and you only need Dolby Digital Sound, the compact Sonos Ray is a perfect choice.
- If it’s less than 55” and you want Atmos sound, the Beam will be a better aesthetic fit as the Beam is more compact.
- If it’s 55” or more, the Arc will complement the size of the TV.
The Sonos Arc does have upwards and sideways firing drivers meaning it can direct the sound all around your room and make the most out of Dolby Atmos.
The Sonos Beam does not have dedicated upwards firing drivers but can still process Atmos using psychoacoustic processing.
Since the release of the new Beam Gen 2, some customers have found the addition of Atmos in the new Beam enough to sway them from the Sonos Arc as this makes a significant difference.
Other customers will be best suited to the Sonos Ray, especially if your TV or room is smaller, or your TV doesn't support Atmos pass through. The Ray is also a perfect choice if your aim is just to enhance vocals and midrange sound to make the content you watch on TV easier to hear.
Ultimately though, for the best experience, the Arc offers the best of what Sonos can achieve if you have the budget.
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| Sonos Ray | Sonos Beam Gen 2 | Sonos Arc | |
| Dolby Digital Surround Sound | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dolby Atmos Surround Sound | ✖ | ✓ (Simulated) | ✓ (Uncompressed) |
| HDMI ARC Support | ✖ | ✓ | ✓ |
| HDMI eARC Support | ✖ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Optical Support | ✓ | ✓ using converter in box (No Atmos) | ✓ using converter in box (No Atmos) |
| Number of speaker drivers | 4 | 5 | 11 |
| Upward-firing drivers | ✖ | ✖ | ✓ |
| Screen Size recommendation | 50" and below | 55" and below | 55" and above |
| Colour Options | Black or White | Black or White | Black or White |
| Width | 559mm | 651mm | 1142mm |
| RRP | £279 | £449 | £899 |
Want to see the Beam and Arc in action? Check out our YouTube comparison below:
Alternatively, we also have a useful blog outlining the key differences between the two: Sonos Arc vs. Sonos Beam: Choose the best Soundbar for you
We've also just released our Sonos Ray announcement video which you can check out here:
Or catch our thoughts on the new Sonos Ray in our blog: Introducing Sonos Ray: The New Mini Sonos Soundbar