When it comes to wireless speakers, there are two brands that stand out above the rest: Bowers & Wilkins and Sonos. Both brands offer excellent sound quality and a variety of features, but they also have some key differences.
If you’re looking for a wireless speaker and can’t decide between the Bowers & Wilkins Formation Flex and the Sonos One, here is a comparison of the two speakers to help you make a decision:
Design
The Bowers & Wilkins Formation Flex has a more modern and sleek design than the Sonos One. The Formation Flex is also smaller and more lightweight, making it a good choice for smaller spaces.
The Sonos One has a more traditional design with a squared-off shape. The One is also larger and heavier than the Formation Flex.
Sound quality
Both the Bowers & Wilkins Formation Flex and the Sonos One offer excellent sound quality. However, the Formation Flex has a slight edge in terms of sound quality.
The Formation Flex has a wider soundstage and produces more bass than the Sonos One. The Formation Flex also has a more balanced sound profile, with clear highs and mids.
The Sonos One has a more V-shaped sound profile, with boosted bass and treble. This can make the Sonos One sound more exciting for some people, but it can also make it sound fatiguing to others.
Features
The Bowers & Wilkins Formation Flex and the Sonos One have different features. The Formation Flex supports both AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth, while the Sonos One only supports AirPlay 2.
The Formation Flex also has a built-in microphone that can be used for voice control with Amazon Alexa. The Sonos One does not have a built-in microphone.
Both speakers can be controlled using their respective apps or with voice control.
Price
The Bowers & Wilkins Formation Flex is more expensive than the Sonos One. The Formation Flex typically costs around $499, while the Sonos One typically costs around $219.
Which speaker is right for you?
The best wireless speaker for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a speaker with a modern design, excellent sound quality, and support for both AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth, the Bowers & Wilkins Formation Flex is a good choice.
If you’re looking for a speaker with a more traditional design, a lower price tag, and support for AirPlay 2, the Sonos One is a good choice.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between the Bowers & Wilkins Formation Flex and the Sonos One:
| Feature | Bowers & Wilkins Formation Flex | Sonos One |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Modern and sleek | Traditional and squared-off |
| Sound quality | Wider soundstage, more bass, more balanced sound profile | More V-shaped sound profile, boosted bass and treble |
| Features | Supports AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth, built-in microphone for voice control with Amazon Alexa | Only supports AirPlay 2, does not have a built-in microphone |
| Price | $499 | $219 |
Ultimately, the best way to decide which wireless speaker is right for you is to try them out and see which one you prefer.