Let’s look at the differences between the Sonos PLAY:1 vs. PLAY:3, and see which is a better fit for you.
So far, we like Sono’s Play:3 rich bass sound with its mid-range drivers and passive bass radiator that Play:1 lacks, as well as its ability to play audio both in mono and stereo mode based on the orientation.
Whereas Sonos PLAY:1 is a more budget-friendly option that is also humidity resistant making it a practical choice if you want to have it often out by the pool.
However, in our opinion, we believe that Sonos PLAY:3 with its advanced audio and flexible pairing capabilities is the better model in this comparison.
The Short Version
Sonos PLAY:1 = Mono output, stereo output when paired with another Play:1, 2 class-D digital amplifiers, 1 tweeter, 1 mid-woofer, adjustable bass & treble, no audio line-in, Amazon Alexa voice commands, compatible w/ Trueplay, set-up over WiFi, works w/ a 2.4 GHz WiFi network, no Bluetooth, button control, can change orientation, wall mount available.
Sonos PLAY:3 = Mono output in vertical position, stereo output in horizontal position, 3 class-D digital amplifiers, 1 tweeter, 2 mid-woofers, adjustable bass & treble, bass radiator, no audio line-in, voice control w/ Amazon Alexa, compatible w/ Trueplay, set-up over WiFi, supports a 2.4GHz WiFi, one ethernet port, button control, can change orientation, wall mount available.
Which one are you getting?
Last update on 2023-04-01 at 08:43 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Sonos PLAY:1 vs. PLAY:3— Easy Comparison Chart
| Sonos PLAY:1 | Sonos PLAY:3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 6.36 x 4.69 x 4.69 in. | 5.2 x 10.6 x 6.3 in. |
| Product finish | White w/ light metallic grille; Black w/ graphite grille | White w/ light metallic grille; Black w/ graphite grille |
| Wall Mount | Available | Available |
| A Bass Radiator | No | Yes |
| Weight | 4.08 lbs. (1.85 kg) | 5.71 lbs. (2.6 kg) |
| Mono Output | Yes | In vertical position |
| Stereo Output | Only when paired with other PLAY:1 | In horizontal position |
| Humidity Resistant | Yes | No |
| Class-D Digital Amplifiers | 2 | 3 |
| Tweeter | 1 | 1 |
| Mid-Woofer | 1 | 2 |
| Adjustable Bass & Treble Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Audio line-in | No | No |
| Amazon Alexa | Yes | Yes |
| Amazon Alexa Built-In | No | No |
| Trueplay | Yes | Yes |
| Set Up Over WiFi | Yes | Yes |
| One App Control | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi | 802.11b/g, 2.4 GHz | 802.11b/g, 2.4 GHz |
| Bluetooth | No | No |
| Change orientation | No | Yes |
| Ethernet Port | One | One |
| Button Control | Yes | Yes |
| Touch Control | No | No |
Sonos PLAY:1 vs. PLAY:3 — What’s Different?
Change Orientation – Sonos Play: 3 allows you to change its orientation based on the position it’s placed in.
For example, when placed vertically it will produce a mono output and will have a stereo output when in a horizontal position.
Whereas Sonos Play:1 should always be in a vertical position, and can only produce a stereo output when paired with another Sonos Play:1.
Sound Quality – In terms of sound quality, Sonos Play:3 can deliver a richer sound with its mid-range drivers and passive bass radiator for that deep bass quality.
Design & Size – When it comes to the design, Play:1 is slightly more compact with its measurements of 6.36 x 4.69 x 4.69 in. vs. Play:3 bulkier dimensions of s 5.2 x 10.6 x 6.3 in.
Humidity Resistant – Lastly, Sonos Play:1 comes with the advantage of being humidity resistant, allowing you to bring the music into the kitchen or bathroom as well.
Whereas Play:3 lacks this function and should be kept in dry areas at all times.
Last update on 2023-04-01 at 08:43 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API