# 🔊 How does the Sonos Beam Gen 2 compare to the original Beam?

*Published: 2024-01-19 | Updated: 2024-08-27 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/answers/how-does-the-sonos-beam-gen-2-compare-to-the-original-beam*

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## Product: Sonos Beam Gen 2
**Brand:** Sonos

The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is definitely an upgrade over the [original Beam](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Doriginal%2BBeam%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). We've looked into it and here's what we found about the key differences between the two models.

### Improved Audio Performance

First off, the Gen 2 has some pretty impressive audio upgrades. It supports [Dolby Atmos](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DDolby%2BAtmos%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which makes your sound experience way more immersive and cinematic. The original Beam doesn't have this feature, so this is a big step up if you're looking for better audio quality.

### Enhanced Processing Power

The Gen 2 also packs more processing power. According to our research, this means it can handle more complex sound setups and runs smoother overall. So whether you're watching movies, playing games, or just listening to music, this one performs better.

### Design and Build

Design-wise, they’re pretty similar – sleek and compact, which is great for fitting into most spaces. But the Gen 2 has some updates like new touch controls and a slightly different grille. These changes might not be huge but are nice little tweaks.

### Connectivity and Compatibility

When it comes to connectivity, both support various streaming services and can be controlled with voice assistants like [Amazon Alexa](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DAmazon%2BAlexa%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [Google Assistant](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DGoogle%2BAssistant%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). 

The Gen 2, however, also includes [AirPlay 2](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DAirPlay%2B2%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) support, making it easier to stream from [Apple](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DApple%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) devices. Neither model supports Bluetooth, so if that's a deal-breaker for you, keep that in mind.

### Expandable Ecosystem

Both the original and Gen 2 can be expanded with other Sonos speakers for a surround sound setup or a [Sonos Sub](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSonos%2BSub%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for more bass. Our research suggests doing this can make a big difference in your overall listening experience.

### Recommendation

So, if Dolby Atmos and better processing are important for you, the Gen 2 is the way to go. If those aren't deal-breakers, the original Beam is still a solid choice and might even be available for a better price now. 

Both are good options, so it really comes down to what features you value and your budget.

## Current Prices

| Retailer | Price | Availability |
|----------|-------|-------------|
| Best Buy | $369.00  | Check |
| Micro Center | $369.99  | Check |
| Planet TV & Appliances | $369.99  | Check |
| Pixel Connection | $405.00  | Check |
| Zola | $499.00  | Check |

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*Where this comes from: This answer is based on ShopSavvy's product database, real-time pricing from thousands of retailers, and analysis of user reviews to give you a well-rounded picture.*