Sonos Arc Review | 109 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£590
  • N. of audio channels: 5.0.2
  • Audio output power: ?
  • HDMI ARC type: eARC

Sonos Arc review. Compare 109 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among soundbars and if it is worth buying.

7.3

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the soundbar's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best soundbars on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

6.7

Technical Score

20.0%

9.5

User score

Very good
6.7

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the soundbar's technical performance, covering key areas such as audio quality, channel configuration, connectivity, HDMI and wireless features, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare soundbars based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

25.0%

6.6

Audio

18.0%

7.1

Formats

16.0%

5.2

Connectivity

14.0%

8.5

Controls

12.0%

6.9

HDMI & Gaming

10.0%

7.4

Smart features

5.0%

3.6

Design

Good
9.5

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the soundbar.

When it matters: When you want to know how a soundbar sounds in real use and how satisfied owners are with dialogue clarity, bass, and ease of setup.

Score components:

70.0%

9.2

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.5
(382)
amazon
5.0
(11)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
(472)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Exceptional
  • 8.2
    Movies

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Dolby Atmos

    25.0%

    8.1

    N. of audio channels

    20.0%

    4.0

    Subwoofer included

    15.0%

    9.0

    Audio output power

    15.0%

    10

    HDMI ARC type

  • 7.4
    Gaming

    Score components:

    35.0%

    4.0

    HDMI pass-through frame rate

    30.0%

    10

    HDMI ARC type

    20.0%

    8.1

    N. of audio channels

    15.0%

    9.0

    Audio output power

  • 5.8
    Music

    Score components:

    20.0%

    9.0

    Audio output power

    20.0%

    4.0

    Subwoofer included

    20.0%

    2.5

    Equalizer bands

    15.0%

    1.0

    N. of supported Bluetooth codecs

    15.0%

    10

    Wi-Fi connectivity

    5.0%

    10

    Spotify Connect

    5.0%

    10

    Bluetooth connectivity

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Sonos Arc is a premium 5.0.2-channel smart soundbar featuring 11 high-performance drivers, including two upward-firing speakers and three silk-dome tweeters, powered by 11 Class-D amplifiers to deliver immersive Dolby Atmos spatial audio. Measuring 1141.7 mm wide with a sleek 270-degree curved grille, it integrates advanced features like Trueplay room tuning, Speech Enhancement, and Night Sound, while offering seamless control via the Sonos app, voice assistants (Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant), and Apple AirPlay 2. Its primary advantages include an exceptionally wide soundstage, crisp dialogue clarity, and effortless integration into the broader Sonos multi-room ecosystem. However, notable drawbacks include its high price point, the lack of Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming, and a performance dip in sub-bass that often necessitates adding a separate, expensive Sonos Sub for a full cinematic experience.

Technical Specifications of soundbar Sonos Arc

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the soundbar's technical performance, covering key areas such as audio quality, channel configuration, connectivity, HDMI and wireless features, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare soundbars based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

25.0%

6.6

Audio

18.0%

7.1

Formats

16.0%

5.2

Connectivity

14.0%

8.5

Controls

12.0%

6.9

HDMI & Gaming

10.0%

7.4

Smart features

5.0%

3.6

Design

6.7
Sonos Arc has a technical score of 6.7 points, which is higher than that of 80.3% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the soundbar.

When it matters: When you want to know how a soundbar sounds in real use and how satisfied owners are with dialogue clarity, bass, and ease of setup.

Score components:

70.0%

9.2

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.5
(382)
amazon
5.0
(11)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
(472)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

9.5
Sonos Arc has a user score of 9.46 points, which is higher than that of 100% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the soundbar.
When it matters: When you prefer to choose a soundbar reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
10
Sonos Arc has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 77.7% of smartphones.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the soundbar's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a soundbar with a good balance between audio quality, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

7.3

Overall score

40.0%

7.4

Price

7.3
Sonos Arc has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.3 points, which is higher than 73.9% of smartphones.
Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand under which the soundbar is marketed and sold.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Sonos
N. of audio channels
What it is: Shows how many separate audio channels the system is built to reproduce, such as left, center, surround, height, and subwoofer channels.
When it matters: When you are deciding between a simpler bar and a setup built for wider surround placement, clearer center dialogue, or more immersive height effects.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=5.1

5.0.2
Sonos Arc has a number of audio channels of 5.0.2, higher than 91.5% of soundbars and equal to 1.1% of soundbars.
Standalone configuration kept; expandable/virtual claims ignored.
Audio output power
What it is: Total continuous or peak audio output power, measured in watts.
When it matters: When you need enough headroom to fill a larger room or listen at higher volume without the system feeling strained.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >100 W

?
Max SPL
What it is: Maximum sound pressure level output, measured in dB SPL.
When it matters: When you use the soundbar in a large room, listen at high volume, or want it to stay convincing during action-heavy movies and parties.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >90 dB SPL

87 dB SPL
Sonos Arc has a max SPL of 87 dB SPL, lower than 80.5% of soundbars of soundbars.
Min frequency
What it is: Lowest reproducible audio frequency, measured in hertz.
When it matters: When deep bass extension matters and you want to know how low the system is supposed to reach.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <50 Hz

51.1 Hz
Sonos Arc has a min frequency of 51.1 Hz, lower than 50% of soundbars of soundbars.
Measured standalone floor kept over higher official-class figure.
Show more
Dolby Atmos
What it is: Means the soundbar can play Dolby Atmos soundtracks, which add height information on top of normal surround channels for a more three-dimensional presentation.
When it matters: When you watch a lot of movies or shows with Atmos tracks and want a more enveloping sense of space than standard surround usually provides.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Sonos Arc supports Dolby Atmos. 20.6% of soundbars include this feature.
DTS:X
What it is: Can handle DTS:X object-based surround audio from compatible sources.
When it matters: When your library includes DTS:X content and you want the soundbar to reproduce its surround effects properly.

Importance: HIGH

no
Sonos Arc does not support DTS:X. 10.6% of soundbars include this feature.
Dolby TrueHD
What it is: Can decode Dolby TrueHD, a lossless surround format often used on Blu-ray and higher-end local media setups.
When it matters: When you play disc-based or local media and want lossless Dolby audio support.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Sonos Arc supports Dolby TrueHD. 17.6% of soundbars include this feature.
Lossless playback requires HDMI eARC.
DTS-HD Master Audio
What it is: Can decode DTS-HD Master Audio, a lossless DTS format used on many Blu-ray releases.
When it matters: When your movie library includes discs or files with higher-quality DTS soundtracks.

Importance: HIGH

no
Sonos Arc does not support DTS-HD Master Audio. 10.6% of soundbars include this feature.
Dolby Digital Plus
What it is: Can decode Dolby Digital Plus, a higher-efficiency surround format used widely by streaming services.
When it matters: When you stream movies and shows from modern apps that commonly deliver audio in Dolby Digital Plus.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Sonos Arc supports Dolby Digital Plus. 25.5% of soundbars include this feature.
Dolby Atmos streaming on this model uses Dolby Digital Plus.
Show more
N. of HDMI inputs
What it is: Number of HDMI input ports available.
When it matters: When several consoles, streamers, or players may need to plug into the soundbar directly.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=1

0
Sonos Arc has a number of HDMI inputs of 0, equal to 67.6% of soundbars.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Can join a wireless network for streaming, app control, updates, and smart-platform features.
When it matters: When you want better streaming stability, direct app playback, or smart features beyond Bluetooth alone.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Sonos Arc supports Wi-Fi connectivity. 31.7% of soundbars include this feature.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: Supported Wi-Fi version or standard (e.g., Wi-Fi 5, 6, 6E).
When it matters: When your network setup uses newer Wi-Fi standards and you want better compatibility or wireless stability.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Wi-Fi 5/6

Wi-Fi 4
Sonos Arc uses Wi-Fi Wi-Fi 4, which is newer than that of 64.1% of soundbars and the same as that of 7% of soundbars.
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Can receive audio wirelessly over Bluetooth from phones, tablets, computers, and other compatible sources.
When it matters: When you want fast casual streaming from nearby devices without relying on Wi-Fi setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Sonos Arc supports Bluetooth connectivity. 96.3% of soundbars include this feature.
Bluetooth version
What it is: Supported Bluetooth specification version.
When it matters: When you care about newer Bluetooth efficiency, compatibility, and connection behavior with modern source devices.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A
Show more
Smartphone app
What it is: Can be configured or controlled through a dedicated mobile app.
When it matters: When you prefer changing inputs, updates, sound modes, or calibration settings from your phone.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Sonos Arc has smartphone app. 34.9% of soundbars offer this feature.
Remote control
What it is: Comes with or supports a physical handheld remote for everyday operation.
When it matters: When you want quick volume, input, and sound-mode control without opening an app.

Importance: HIGH

no
Sonos Arc does not have remote control. 73.5% of soundbars offer this feature.
Control panel
What it is: Design and layout of the onboard control panel.
When it matters: When you want easier everyday control.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Sonos Arc has control panel. 91.3% of soundbars offer this feature.
Voice assistant compatibility
What it is: Works with one or more voice-assistant platforms such as Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri workflows.
When it matters: When voice control is part of how you start playback, change volume, or integrate the bar into smart-home routines.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Sonos Arc supports voice assistant compatibility. 30.9% of soundbars include this feature.
Far-field microphones
What it is: Built-in far-field microphones for voice assistant use.
When it matters: When you want hands-free control or built-in voice features.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Sonos Arc has far-field microphones. 12.2% of soundbars offer this feature.
Show more
HDMI version
What it is: Version of the HDMI standard supported for input/output.
When it matters: When you need the HDMI link to handle newer video, gaming, or audio-return features in your setup.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 2.1

?
HDMI ARC type
What it is: Shows whether the soundbar uses ARC or eARC for TV audio over HDMI. ARC covers basic return audio, while eARC supports higher-bandwidth formats such as lossless Dolby Atmos and generally gives you more headroom for advanced TV-to-soundbar audio.
When it matters: When the TV will send sound back to the soundbar over HDMI and you care about getting the best audio formats your TV and streaming devices can pass through.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: eARC

eARC
Sonos Arc has eARC as its HDMI TV-audio return type, which is more advanced than what 79.6% of soundbars offer and the same as what 20.5% offers.
HDMI-CEC support
What it is: Lets compatible devices share basic commands like power, volume, and input switching over HDMI.
When it matters: When you want simpler everyday use, such as controlling volume with the TV remote and having the soundbar turn on with the TV.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Sonos Arc has HDMI-CEC support. 64.1% of soundbars offer this feature.
HDMI pass-through resolution
What it is: Maximum video resolution supported through HDMI pass-through.
When it matters: When you connect external players or consoles through the soundbar.

Importance: MEDIUM

none
Sonos Arc supports HDMI pass-through up to none, which is the same as that of 77.3% of soundbars.
HDMI pass-through frame rate
What it is: Maximum frame rate supported for HDMI pass-through.
When it matters: When you connect gaming devices through the soundbar.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=120 fps

none fps
Sonos Arc has a HDMI pass-through frame rate of none fps, equal to 81.3% of soundbars.
Show more
AirPlay
What it is: Supports Apple AirPlay or AirPlay 2 for network-based streaming from Apple devices and apps.
When it matters: When your home setup is built around Apple devices and you want smooth wireless playback across that ecosystem.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Sonos Arc supports AirPlay. 20.1% of soundbars include this feature.
Chromecast built-in
What it is: Includes Chromecast so audio can be cast directly from compatible apps over Wi-Fi.
When it matters: When you want quick app-based casting from Android, Chrome, or supported streaming services without Bluetooth pairing.

Importance: HIGH

no
Sonos Arc does not support Chromecast built-in. 11.7% of soundbars include this feature.
Does not support Chromecast built-in.
Spotify Connect
What it is: Can receive Spotify streams directly over the network without routing playback through your phone over Bluetooth.
When it matters: When you use Spotify often and want your phone free for calls, battery, or other apps while music keeps playing.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Sonos Arc supports Spotify Connect. 22.9% of soundbars include this feature.
TIDAL Connect
What it is: Can receive TIDAL streams directly over the network without using Bluetooth from the phone as the audio path.
When it matters: When you use TIDAL regularly and want direct streaming with less dependence on your phone staying involved.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Sonos Arc does not support TIDAL Connect. 7.6% of soundbars include this feature.
Amazon Music native support
What it is: Native integration with Amazon Music service.
When it matters: When you stream music directly from apps and ecosystems you already use.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Sonos Arc has Amazon Music native support. 20.9% of soundbars offer this feature.
Available via the Sonos app.
Show more
Width
What it is: Overall width of the soundbar.
When it matters: When you want the bar to match the TV size better or fit a narrow cabinet cleanly.

Importance: HIGH

1,142 mm
Sonos Arc has a width of 1,142 mm, higher than 94% of soundbars of soundbars.
Height
What it is: Overall height of the soundbar.
When it matters: When clearance under the TV is limited and you do not want the bar covering the lower edge of the picture.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <70 mm

87 mm
Sonos Arc has a height of 87 mm, higher than 88.1% of soundbars of soundbars.
Thickness
What it is: The front-to-back depth of the soundbar body.
When it matters: When you need the soundbar to fit neatly on furniture, under the TV, or close to the wall without sticking out too much.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <90 mm

116 mm
Sonos Arc is 116 mm thick, thicker than 80.9% of soundbars of soundbars.
Weight
What it is: Total weight of the soundbar unit.
When it matters: When wall mounting, shelf strength, or how easy the bar is to move and position matters.

Importance: MEDIUM

6,250 g
Sonos Arc weighs 6,250 g, more than 94.6% of soundbars of soundbars.
Build material
What it is: Material used for cabinet or body construction.
When it matters: When finish quality, cabinet feel, and how premium the bar looks in the room matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

plastic
Sonos Arc uses plastic for the build material, which is different from that of 5% of soundbars and the same as that of 91.6% of soundbars.
Show more

Sonos Arc vs the average soundbar

  • More audio channels
    Sonos Arc has more audio channels than the average soundbar (5.0.2 vs 2.0). The average soundbar has 2.0 audio channels.
    Standalone configuration kept; expandable/virtual claims ignored.
    What it is: Shows how many separate audio channels the system is built to reproduce, such as left, center, surround, height, and subwoofer channels.
    When it matters: When you are deciding between a simpler bar and a setup built for wider surround placement, clearer center dialogue, or more immersive height effects.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=5.1

    Sonos Arc has more audio channels than the average soundbar (5.0.2 vs 2.0). The average soundbar has 2.0 audio channels.5.0.2 vs 2.0
  • Supports Dolby Atmos
    Sonos Arc supports Dolby Atmos, the average soundbar does not.
    What it is: Means the soundbar can play Dolby Atmos soundtracks, which add height information on top of normal surround channels for a more three-dimensional presentation.
    When it matters: When you watch a lot of movies or shows with Atmos tracks and want a more enveloping sense of space than standard surround usually provides.

    Importance: HIGH

    Sonos Arc supports Dolby Atmos, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports Dolby TrueHD
    Sonos Arc supports Dolby TrueHD, the average soundbar does not.
    Lossless playback requires HDMI eARC.
    What it is: Can decode Dolby TrueHD, a lossless surround format often used on Blu-ray and higher-end local media setups.
    When it matters: When you play disc-based or local media and want lossless Dolby audio support.

    Importance: HIGH

    Sonos Arc supports Dolby TrueHD, the average soundbar does not.
  • Has Wi-Fi connectivity
    Sonos Arc supports Wi-Fi connectivity, the average soundbar does not.
    What it is: Can join a wireless network for streaming, app control, updates, and smart-platform features.
    When it matters: When you want better streaming stability, direct app playback, or smart features beyond Bluetooth alone.

    Importance: HIGH

    Sonos Arc supports Wi-Fi connectivity, the average soundbar does not.
  • 7 more drivers
    Sonos Arc has more drivers than the average soundbar (11 vs 4). The average soundbar has 4 drivers.
    What it is: Total number of speaker drivers built into the unit.
    When it matters: When you want a better idea of how complex the speaker array is inside the bar itself.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=4

    Sonos Arc has more drivers than the average soundbar (11 vs 4). The average soundbar has 4 drivers.11 vs 4
  • Supports automatic room calibration
    Sonos Arc supports automatic room calibration, the average soundbar does not.
    What it is: Measures your room and adjusts the soundbar's tuning automatically so bass, dialogue, and surround effects fit the space better.
    When it matters: When your room layout, walls, or furniture could affect the sound and you want the soundbar to tune itself with less manual trial and error.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sonos Arc supports automatic room calibration, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports Dolby Digital Plus
    Sonos Arc supports Dolby Digital Plus, the average soundbar does not.
    Dolby Atmos streaming on this model uses Dolby Digital Plus.
    What it is: Can decode Dolby Digital Plus, a higher-efficiency surround format used widely by streaming services.
    When it matters: When you stream movies and shows from modern apps that commonly deliver audio in Dolby Digital Plus.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sonos Arc supports Dolby Digital Plus, the average soundbar does not.
  • Has smartphone app
    Sonos Arc supports smartphone app, the average soundbar does not.
    What it is: Can be configured or controlled through a dedicated mobile app.
    When it matters: When you prefer changing inputs, updates, sound modes, or calibration settings from your phone.

    Importance: HIGH

    Sonos Arc supports smartphone app, the average soundbar does not.
  • More audio channels
    Sonos Arc has more audio channels than the average soundbar (5.0.2 vs 2.0). The average soundbar has 2.0 audio channels.
  • 7 more drivers
    Sonos Arc has more drivers than the average soundbar (11 vs 4). The average soundbar has 4 drivers.
  • Supports upfiring speakers
    Sonos Arc supports upfiring speakers, the average soundbar does not.
  • Compatible with Wireless rear speaker
    Sonos Arc supports wireless rear speaker compatibility, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports Dolby Atmos
    Sonos Arc supports Dolby Atmos, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports Dolby TrueHD
    Sonos Arc supports Dolby TrueHD, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports Dolby Digital Plus
    Sonos Arc supports Dolby Digital Plus, the average soundbar does not.
  • Broader format support
    Sonos Arc supports more music formats than the average soundbar (AAC, ALAC, FLAC, MP3, OGG, WAV vs MP3).
  • 4 more supported audio formats
    Sonos Arc supports more audio formats than the average soundbar (6 vs 2). The average soundbar supports 2 audio formats.
  • Has Wi-Fi connectivity
    Sonos Arc supports Wi-Fi connectivity, the average soundbar does not.
  • 1 more RJ45 ports
    Sonos Arc has more RJ45 ports than the average soundbar (1 vs 0). The average soundbar has 0 RJ45 ports.
  • Supports AirPlay
    Sonos Arc supports AirPlay, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports Spotify Connect
    Sonos Arc supports Spotify Connect, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports multiroom ecosystem
    Sonos Arc supports multiroom ecosystem support, the average soundbar does not.
  • Has apple Music native
    Sonos Arc supports Apple Music native support, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports amazon Music native
    Sonos Arc supports Amazon Music native support, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports deezer
    Sonos Arc supports Deezer support, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports automatic room calibration
    Sonos Arc supports automatic room calibration, the average soundbar does not.
  • Has smartphone app
    Sonos Arc supports smartphone app, the average soundbar does not.
  • Has EQ customization (app)
    Sonos Arc supports eQ customization (app), the average soundbar does not.
  • Compatible with Voice assistant
    Sonos Arc supports voice assistant compatibility, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports manual audio delay adjustment
    Sonos Arc supports manual audio delay adjustment, the average soundbar does not.
  • Supports night mode
    Sonos Arc supports night mode, the average soundbar does not.
  • 4 more microphones
    Sonos Arc has more microphones than the average soundbar (4 vs 0). The average soundbar has 0 microphones.
  • Supports far-field microphones
    Sonos Arc has far-field microphones, the average soundbar does not.
  • 6.1 dB SPL lower max SPL
    Sonos Arc has a lower max SPL than the average soundbar (87 dB SPL vs 93.1 dB SPL). The average soundbar reaches 93.1 dB SPL max SPL.
  • 100 Hz lower max frequency
    Sonos Arc has a lower maximum frequency than the average soundbar (19,900 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average soundbar has a maximum frequency of 20,000 Hz.
    Single-source exact-model treble-ceiling figure used.
  • 8.8x higher standby power consumption
    Sonos Arc has a higher standby power consumption than the average soundbar (4.4 W vs 0.5 W). The average soundbar uses 0.5 W in standby.
  • No SBC
    Sonos Arc does not support sBC, the average soundbar does.
  • No optical audio input
    Sonos Arc does not have optical audio input, the average soundbar does.
    No (Requires included HDMI-to-Optical adapter) Sonos Community +5
  • No USB audio input
    Sonos Arc does not have USB audio input, the average soundbar does.
    no
  • No AUX input
    Sonos Arc does not have AUX input, the average soundbar does.
    Requires an adapter; no direct AUX input.
  • 1 fewer USB ports
    Sonos Arc has fewer USB ports than the average soundbar (0 vs 1). The average soundbar has 1 USB ports.
  • No USB playback
    Sonos Arc does not support USB playback support, the average soundbar does.
    no
  • No remote control
    Sonos Arc does not have remote control, the average soundbar does.
  • No auto power-off
    Sonos Arc does not support auto power-off, the average soundbar does.
  • 381 mm wider width
    Sonos Arc is wider than the average soundbar (1,142 mm vs 761 mm). The average soundbar is 761 mm wide.
  • 20 mm higher height
    Sonos Arc is taller than the average soundbar (87 mm vs 67 mm). The average soundbar is 67 mm tall.
  • 4,250 g heavier weight
    Sonos Arc is heavier than the average soundbar (6,250 g vs 2,000 g). The average soundbar weighs 2,000 g.
  • 31 mm thicker design
    Sonos Arc is thicker than the average soundbar (116 mm vs 85 mm). The average soundbar is 85 mm thick.
  • Fewer color options
    Sonos Arc is available in black, white, while the average soundbar is available in black.
  • Less trusted origin
    Sonos Arc is from United States, while the average soundbar is from Japan.
  • 1 year/s older release date
    Sonos Arc is older than the average soundbar (2020 vs 2021). The average soundbar was released in 2021.
    June 10, 2020
  • No optical audio input
    Sonos Arc does not have optical audio input, the average soundbar does.
    No (Requires included HDMI-to-Optical adapter) Sonos Community +5
    What it is: Includes a digital optical input for TVs and other devices that use TOSLINK audio connections.
    When it matters: When a TV or source device has optical audio output but no suitable HDMI audio path.

    Importance: LOW

    Sonos Arc does not have optical audio input, the average soundbar does.
  • No remote control
    Sonos Arc does not have remote control, the average soundbar does.
    What it is: Comes with or supports a physical handheld remote for everyday operation.
    When it matters: When you want quick volume, input, and sound-mode control without opening an app.

    Importance: HIGH

    Sonos Arc does not have remote control, the average soundbar does.
  • No USB audio input
    Sonos Arc does not have USB audio input, the average soundbar does.
    no
    What it is: Can receive audio through USB from a compatible host device instead of using only analog or HDMI inputs.
    When it matters: When a computer or compatible source is easiest to connect over USB rather than through another audio output.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sonos Arc does not have USB audio input, the average soundbar does.
  • No AUX input
    Sonos Arc does not have AUX input, the average soundbar does.
    Requires an adapter; no direct AUX input.
    What it is: Includes a 3.5 mm analog input for connecting older devices or simple wired audio sources.
    When it matters: When a TV, projector, music player, or other source still relies on analog audio output.

    Importance: LOW

    Sonos Arc does not have AUX input, the average soundbar does.
  • 381 mm wider width
    Sonos Arc is wider than the average soundbar (1,142 mm vs 761 mm). The average soundbar is 761 mm wide.
    What it is: Overall width of the soundbar.
    When it matters: When you want the bar to match the TV size better or fit a narrow cabinet cleanly.

    Importance: HIGH

    Sonos Arc is wider than the average soundbar (1,142 mm vs 761 mm). The average soundbar is 761 mm wide.1,142 mm vs 761 mm
  • 1 fewer USB ports
    Sonos Arc has fewer USB ports than the average soundbar (0 vs 1). The average soundbar has 1 USB ports.
    What it is: Number of available USB ports.
    When it matters: When you want the soundbar to connect to storage or accessories without using another adapter or source device.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=1

    Sonos Arc has fewer USB ports than the average soundbar (0 vs 1). The average soundbar has 1 USB ports.0 vs 1
  • 6.1 dB SPL lower max SPL
    Sonos Arc has a lower max SPL than the average soundbar (87 dB SPL vs 93.1 dB SPL). The average soundbar reaches 93.1 dB SPL max SPL.
    What it is: Maximum sound pressure level output, measured in dB SPL.
    When it matters: When you use the soundbar in a large room, listen at high volume, or want it to stay convincing during action-heavy movies and parties.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >90 dB SPL

    Sonos Arc has a lower max SPL than the average soundbar (87 dB SPL vs 93.1 dB SPL). The average soundbar reaches 93.1 dB SPL max SPL.87 dB SPL vs 93.1 dB SPL
  • 20 mm higher height
    Sonos Arc is taller than the average soundbar (87 mm vs 67 mm). The average soundbar is 67 mm tall.
    What it is: Overall height of the soundbar.
    When it matters: When clearance under the TV is limited and you do not want the bar covering the lower edge of the picture.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <70 mm

    Sonos Arc is taller than the average soundbar (87 mm vs 67 mm). The average soundbar is 67 mm tall.87 mm vs 67 mm

Graphic comparison of Sonos Arc and other soundbars

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Third-party reviews

United States

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Sonos Arc?

  • Immersive Dolby Atmos performance with a wide, room-filling soundstage
  • Exceptional dialogue clarity, especially with the built-in Speech Enhancement feature
  • Sleek and attractive design that fits well with 55-inch and larger TVs
  • Seamless integration into the Sonos multi-room ecosystem
  • High-quality musical performance for a wide range of genres
  • Easy setup process via the Sonos app and single-cable HDMI eARC connection
  • Built-in voice assistant support for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant

What customers dislike about Sonos Arc?

  • Bass can feel slightly lacking on very deep, bass-heavy tracks without a dedicated subwoofer
  • High price point compared to some competitors
  • Single HDMI port limits connectivity for those with multiple external devices
  • Lack of support for DTS:X audio format
  • Trueplay room correction feature is exclusively available to iOS users
  • Noticeable audio compression when played at maximum volume

Expert reviews

R
rtings.com
24/05/2023

The Sonos Ultimate Immersive Set with Arc is a premium 7.1.4 system that offers exceptional Dolby Atmos performance, featuring clear dialogue, a wide soundstage, and powerful bass via the Sub and Era 300 satellites. Key strengths include immersive surround sound and versatile room correction, though it lacks Bluetooth and HDMI In ports for video passthrough, limiting connectivity....Read more

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rtings.com
11/02/2021

The Sonos Arc with Sub + One SL Speakers is a premium 5.1.2 home theater system offering a well-balanced, neutral sound profile and immersive, deep bass suitable for movies and music. Its Trueplay room correction, excellent build quality, and Dolby Atmos support enhance performance, though it lacks Bluetooth and full HDMI input for 4K passthrough. While the system provides clear,...Read more

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gq-magazine.co.uk
06/07/2020

The GQ review highlights the Sonos Arc as a premium, all-in-one soundbar that significantly upgrades previous models with immersive Dolby Atmos, enabled by 11 drivers and a 270-degree grille. It excels in delivering clear dialogue and, via Trueplay calibration, optimizes sound for the room, while integrating fully into the Sonos ecosystem. However, the Arc is hindered by having only...Read more

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hifioasis.com
05/11/2024

The HiFi Oasis review characterizes the Sonos Arc as a premium 5.0.2 channel soundbar, praising its ability to deliver an immersive Dolby Atmos experience with a wide, detailed soundstage. Key strengths highlighted include exceptional mid-range clarity, high-quality build, and versatile audio features like Trueplay tuning and Speech Enhancement. While the sound is described as...Read more

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whathifi.com
04/07/2024

What Hi-Fi? highlights the Sonos Arc as a versatile, premium soundbar with superior Dolby Atmos performance, an expansive soundstage, and, following a software update, enhanced height channel control. While praised for its, ease of use and build quality, long-term use revealed significant "lows," including persistent lip-sync issues with external hardware and a lack of HDMI...Read more

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cnet.com
04/06/2020

The Sonos Arc is a premium, all-in-one 11-driver soundbar designed for immersive Dolby Atmos audio, featuring a wide soundstage and robust bass without needing a separate subwoofer. It functions within the Sonos ecosystem and includes Trueplay tuning for room-specific calibration, making it a versatile option for both movies and music. Key limitations highlighted in the review...Read more

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techradar.com
12/02/2024

The Sonos Arc is a premium, all-in-one soundbar that delivers an immersive Dolby Atmos experience using 11 high-performance drivers, including upward-firing units for 3D sound. The device features a sleek, minimalist design, simple one-cable setup, and excellent Trueplay room tuning, though this feature is restricted to iOS devices. While offering great versatility for both music...Read more

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whathifi.com
04/11/2024

The Sonos Arc is a five-star, class-leading Dolby Atmos soundbar lauded by What Hi-Fi? for delivering an immersive 3D soundstage via an 11-driver array. It excels in dialogue clarity and provides a balanced, detailed performance without needing an external subwoofer. Key limitations include the lack of HDMI pass-through, no support for DTS:X, and a slightly underwhelming, albeit...Read more

R
rtings.com
06/12/2023

The Sonos Arc is a premium 5.0.2 standalone soundbar offering exceptional vocal clarity, a wide soundstage, and Dolby Atmos support, making it well-suited for immersive home cinema experiences, with Trueplay room calibration enhancing its versatility. Its integration into the Sonos ecosystem provides excellent Wi-Fi streaming and voice assistant capabilities, although the lack of...Read more

E
expertreviews.co.uk
01/11/2022

The Sonos Arc is an exceptionally capable 11-driver standalone soundbar that delivers a massive, immersive soundstage with genuine Dolby Atmos height effects. It features excellent dialogue clarity, strong bass performance, and integrates seamlessly into the Sonos ecosystem for multi-room audio and optional 5.1 expansion. Key strengths include the Trueplay room-tuning feature and...Read more

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wired.com
04/06/2020

The Sonos Arc is an ambitious, high-end 45-inch soundbar that brings immersive Dolby Atmos audio to the Sonos ecosystem, featuring 11 drivers including two upward-firing units for height effects. It delivers exceptional dialogue clarity and a wide, detailed soundstage, though peak performance requires a TV with an HDMI eARC port. While lauded for its robust, well-controlled bass,...Read more

C
computerbild.de
28/10/2025

The 1.14-meter-long Sonos Arc is a high-performance soundbar with an 11-driver array designed to deliver immersive 3D Dolby Atmos for larger TVs. Key strengths include exceptional dialogue clarity, a wide soundstage, and Trueplay calibration for room-specific tuning, though Trueplay is limited to iOS users. Performance-wise, it offers a refined, detailed sound with effective...Read more

H
hifi.de
27/03/2023

According to the hifi.de review, the Sonos Arc is a premium soundbar that excels at creating an immersive, three-dimensional soundstage, thanks to its 11-driver array and upward-firing speakers for Dolby Atmos, making it ideal for home cinema. Key strengths include a sleek design, exceptional dialogue clarity, and seamless integration into the Sonos multi-room ecosystem. However,...Read more

F
futurezone.at
06/06/2020

The Sonos Arc is a premium, 1.14-meter-long Dolby Atmos soundbar designed for large TVs, featuring an elegant, elongated design with 11 high-performance drivers that deliver a wide, immersive three-dimensional soundstage. It excels in audio clarity for both movies and music, offering simple, two-cable setup and seamless integration into the Sonos multi-room ecosystem. Key advantages...Read more

G
galaxus.de
16/06/2020

The Sonos Arc is a premium, 114 cm soundbar designed for immersive Dolby Atmos audio, featuring 11 drivers including upward-firing units for height channels. It offers excellent, room-filling sound with precise audio object placement, delivering crystal-clear dialogue and strong performance even without a subwoofer. While praised for its elegant design, easy app setup, and Sonos...Read more

M
manager-magazin.de
15/06/2020

The Manager Magazin review praises the Sonos Arc as a high-end, 1.14-meter-long soundbar that delivers impressive 3D audio via 11 drivers and Dolby Atmos, particularly suited for TVs 55 inches and larger. Key strengths include superb audio separation, simple setup, and integrated voice control, though performance is limited by the lack of HDMI passthrough. Furthermore, optimal Dolby...Read more

W
welt.de
23/02/2021

The WELT review praises the Sonos Arc for delivering an immersive 3D "cinema feeling" through 11 high-performance drivers and impressive Dolby Atmos support, with notable, punchy bass that often removes the need for a separate subwoofer. Setup is described as simple, using the Sonos S2 app and Trueplay room calibration to customize sound, alongside smart assistant integration....Read more

S
smart-home-fox.de
20/01/2025

The Sonos Arc is a premium, 11-driver soundbar designed for large screens, featuring a sleek design and simple setup via HDMI eARC. Its notable design cons include a significant 114cm length, which may obstruct lower-profile TV stands. The unit excels in creating an immersive 3D soundstage with Dolby Atmos, offering crisp dialogue and high-quality audio. However, it lacks deep bass...Read more

C
coolblue.de
13/10/2025

The Sonos Arc is a substantial, 115cm soundbar designed as a powerful, 5-channel centerpiece for larger televisions and spacious rooms, boasting a quick 15-30 minute setup via the Sonos app. Its 11 internal drivers deliver an immersive Dolby Atmos experience, offering crisp dialogue and deep bass that effectively simulates surround sound, even without rear speakers. While offering...Read more

S
spiegel.de
04/06/2020

According to the Der Spiegel review, the 114-centimeter Sonos Arc is a premium soundbar featuring 11 drivers designed for immersive Dolby Atmos, creating a expansive, detailed soundstage for movies. Key pros include high-precision audio performance and the Trueplay tuning feature for automatic room calibration, alongside versatile smart features like voice control and Apple AirPlay...Read more

H
hifi.de
25/06/2022

The Sonos Arc and Beam (Gen 2) differ primarily in size and audio capability, with the Arc utilizing 11 drivers and physical upward-firing speakers for true Dolby Atmos, while the smaller Beam (Gen 2) uses virtual processing. The Arc is recommended for larger rooms (55"+ TVs) for its superior soundstage and deep bass, though it comes at a higher price and footprint. Conversely, the...Read more

S
stern.de
16/05/2020

The Stern.de review highlights the Sonos Arc as a premium soundbar delivering immersive, room-filling sound via Dolby Atmos and 11 speakers, boasting excellent vocal clarity, a wide soundstage, and seamless ecosystem integration. However, the primary drawback, or "big catch," is the limitation of only one HDMI (eARC) port, which requires a modern, compatible TV for optimal...Read more

C
clubic.com
04/06/2020

The Sonos Arc is a premium all-in-one soundbar featuring an 11-driver array with upward-firing speakers to deliver an immersive Dolby Atmos soundstage, boasting impressive vocal clarity and seamless integration into the Sonos S2 app ecosystem. Pros include superior spatial audio performance and effective Trueplay calibration, though it is limited by a lack of DTS:X support and can...Read more

L
lesnumeriques.com
10/06/2020

According to Les Numériques, the Sonos Arc is a high-end, 11-driver soundbar delivering an expansive, immersive 3D audio experience with Dolby Atmos, often eliminating the need for a separate subwoofer. While offering excellent integration into the Sonos S2 app ecosystem, Trueplay calibration, and built-in voice assistants, it suffers from a lack of DTS compatibility, potential...Read more

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leclaireur.fnac.com
18/01/2021

Leclaireur Fnac designates the Sonos Arc as a highly accomplished, premium Dolby Atmos soundbar capable of replacing traditional 5.1 systems. It features 11 drivers, including upward-firing units, delivering a wide soundstage and excellent dialogue clarity, all within a sleek, modern design. While praised for its, performance, the review highlights limited connectivity with a single...Read more

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frandroid.com
25/06/2020

The Sonos Arc is a premium 11-driver Dolby Atmos soundbar that creates a wide, immersive soundstage with detailed, high-quality audio. Its sleek 114cm design integrates seamlessly into the Sonos ecosystem with Wi-Fi, voice assistants, and effective Trueplay room calibration. Notable drawbacks include a lack of HDMI passthrough, limited support for DTS:X formats, and a high price...Read more

G
global.techradar.com
Febrero de 2024

The Sonos Arc is a premium, all-in-one soundbar featuring 11 drivers and upward-firing speakers that deliver a powerful Dolby Atmos experience. Its standout performance includes impressive audio separation, deep bass, and clear dialogue, complemented by a sleek design that fits under most 55-inch+ TVs. While Trueplay tuning allows for customized sound calibration, significant...Read more

E
effemeride.it
15/11/2023

The Sonos Arc is a premium, 11-driver all-in-one soundbar featuring dedicated upward-firing speakers designed for an immersive Dolby Atmos experience. It supports seamless integration into the Sonos ecosystem for easy, wireless expansion with subwoofers and rear speakers, while offering Trueplay tuning and voice control for optimal performance. Despite these pros, limitations...Read more

G
global.techradar.com
29/05/2020

The Sonos Arc is a premium, all-in-one soundbar that delivers a high-impact Dolby Atmos experience through an 11-driver array with dedicated upward-firing speakers. Its sophisticated design ensures exceptional audio separation, creating an immersive 3D soundstage suitable for both movies and music from a single unit. Key strengths include simple setup via the Sonos app, effective...Read more

G
gqitalia.it
22/06/2020

The Sonos Arc is a high-end, 45-inch soundbar supporting Dolby Atmos, designed to deliver a wide, cinematic soundstage with 11 high-performance drivers, including upward-firing speakers for 3D audio. It offers impressive, detailed sound with punchy bass and exceptionally clear dialogue, while Trueplay tuning optimizes audio for specific room acoustics. The system integrates...Read more

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wired.it
15/06/2020

The Sonos Arc is described by WIRED as a sophisticated, 114cm-long flagship soundbar designed for large TVs and featuring an 11-driver array for immersive Dolby Atmos, according to a June 2020 review. The device boasts excellent vocal clarity, a wide soundstage, and effective Trueplay room tuning, with a punchy, low-end performance that often eliminates the need for a separate...Read more

D
dday.it
04/06/2020

The DDay.it review highlights the Sonos Arc as a premium all-in-one soundbar delivering immersive 3D audio, specifically praising its 11-driver array and upward-firing speakers for a superior Dolby Atmos experience, which creates a wide, precise soundstage. While the sound is clear and detailed for both cinema and dialogue, a noted limitation is the lack of a dedicated subwoofer,...Read more

D
digitec.ch
16/06/2020

The Sonos Arc is positioned as a premium "statement" soundbar, offering a significant upgrade over the Playbar with a sleek, metallic design, though its 114 cm width makes it potentially too large for smaller setups. It features an 11-driver architecture with upward-firing speakers for compelling Dolby Atmos, producing crystal-clear dialogue and robust,, "perfect" standalone bass...Read more

A
afdigitale.it
22/11/2023

The AF Digitale review of the Sonos Arc and Sub (Gen 3) bundle highlights a premium, highly immersive, and "mind-blowing" home cinema experience, particularly excelling with Dolby Atmos content via upward-firing speakers and clean, powerful bass from the Sub. The system is praised for its simple, mostly wireless setup and the effective Trueplay room calibration, which precisely...Read more

C
corriere.it
10/07/2020

The Corriere della Sera review defines the Sonos Arc as a premium, 11-driver soundbar designed for immersive Dolby Atmos home cinema, utilizing upward-firing speakers to create a wide, 3D soundstage. Key advantages include exceptional vocal clarity and a sleek 270-degree grille, complemented by seamless integration into the Sonos S2 ecosystem for multi-room audio and voice control....Read more

I
iculture.nl
04/06/2020

The Sonos Arc is a premium, 114cm-long, 11-driver soundbar designed for larger TVs, delivering an immersive 3D soundstage through dedicated Dolby Atmos support. It is praised for crisp highs, solid midrange, and seamless integration into the Sonos ecosystem, allowing for easy expansion with subs or rear speakers. Key features include Trueplay room calibration and built-in voice...Read more

H
hifi.nl
26/11/2024

The Sonos Arc Ultra represents a significant technical leap, featuring Sound Motion technology for enhanced bass in a slimmer,, more elegant design. This 14-driver "9.1.4" configuration offers superior soundstage width, better dialogue clarity through center-channel waveguides, and improved musical performance. Key advantages include improved Dolby Atmos performance, the...Read more

A
alpha-audio.net
30/06/2020

Alpha Audio's review describes the Sonos Arc as a premium-built, "immaculate" soundbar, offering superb, centered voice reproduction ideal for everyday TV and streaming. However, the unit struggles with high-dynamics in action movies and fails to provide a fully immersive, standalone Dolby Atmos experience without additional, expensive sub/rear speakers. Connectivity is considered a...Read more

E
elektrozine.be
16/06/2020

The Sonos Arc is a premium, all-in-one soundbar featuring 11 drivers, including upward-firing units designed to deliver an expansive 3D audio experience with Dolby Atmos. Optimized for TVs 55 inches or larger, it integrates with the Sonos ecosystem and uses Trueplay calibration to tune sound to the room. The Arc offers exceptional vocal clarity, a wide soundstage for movies and...Read more

F
fwd.nl
16/06/2020

The Sonos Arc, paired with a Sub and two One speakers, creates a comprehensive 5.1.2 surround system, offering a major upgrade over the standalone soundbar. Installation is straightforward via the Sonos app, utilizing Trueplay for room calibration, though this feature requires an iOS device. A significant advantage is the immersive cinematic experience, with the Sub providing...Read more

H
hifi.be
21/08/2020

The Sonos Arc is a high-performance soundbar with 11 drivers designed for immersive Dolby Atmos audio, offering wide soundstaging and exceptional vocal clarity suitable for larger TVs. It integrates seamlessly into the Sonos ecosystem with Trueplay calibration, though it lacks Bluetooth and DTS:X support. Key limitations include a single HDMI eARC port and bass that, while clean,...Read more

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