Sonos Sub Gen 4 vs Bose Sub 1
Buy the Sonos Sub Gen 4 if you already own Sonos speakers or a Sonos soundbar, because it pairs over Wi-Fi and joins the same app and multi-room system. Buy the Bose Sub 1 if you own a Bose soundbar or a Bose L1 Pro system, because it connects over Bluetooth or XLR. Neither listing gave a price, so compare live prices across stores before you commit.
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Sonos Sub Gen 4
Sonos Sub Gen 4 Wireless Subwoofer
Choose the Sonos Sub Gen 4 if you want a wireless sub that joins an existing Sonos system and is tuned through the Sonos app.
- Joins an existing Sonos system over Wi-Fi
- Trueplay tuning adapts bass to the room
- Stands upright or lies flat under furniture
- Two force-cancelling drivers reduce cabinet rattle
What separates them
| Sonos Sub Gen 4 | Bose Sub 1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Ecosystem | Sonos speakers, soundbars and the Sonos app | Bose soundbars and Bose L1 Pro portable PA systems |
| Connection | Wi-Fi only | Bluetooth and XLR |
| Wired input | None | XLR input |
| Multi-room audio | Yes, joins a Sonos whole-home system | No multi-room system |
| Room tuning | Trueplay tuning through the Sonos app | No room-correction tuning |
| Placement | Can stand upright or lie flat | Designed to sit on the floor |
| Best match | Sonos Arc, Beam or Ray soundbars | Bose Smart Ultra or Soundbar 700, or an L1 Pro |
Price history
- Sonos Sub Gen 4: lowest $797.00 on Nov 2 at eBay.
- Bose Sub 1: lowest $1,049.00 on Nov 5 at Guitar Center.
Prices at every store
Sonos Sub Gen 4
- eBayCheck price at eBay
- Sam's ClubCheck price at Sam's Club
- WalmartCheck price at Walmart
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Bose Sub 1
- AmazonCheck price at Amazon
- Best BuyCheck price at Best Buy
- B&H Photo-Video-AudioCheck price at B&H Photo-Video-Audio
Specs compared
| Spec | Sonos Sub Gen 4 | Bose Sub 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Black | Black |
| Special Purpose | Subwoofer | Subwoofer |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi | Bluetooth, XLR |
| Wireless | Yes | — |
What reviewers say
Sonos Sub Gen 4
Owners generally rate the Sub Gen 4 highly for clean, deep bass and easy app setup. Many say it transforms a Sonos soundbar for movies. The main complaint is the price, and some say it adds little for music at low volume.
- BassPraisedOwners say it adds deep, clean low end that soundbars alone cannot reach.
- SetupPraisedPairing through the Sonos app is described as quick and reliable.
- BuildPraisedThe force-cancelling design keeps the cabinet steady and rattle-free.
- PriceCriticised
Questions and answers
- Which sub is better for a Sonos soundbar?
- The Sonos Sub Gen 4. It pairs over Wi-Fi and is tuned through the Sonos app. The Bose Sub 1 does not connect to Sonos gear.
- Which sub is better for a Bose soundbar?
- The Bose Sub 1. It is built to pair with Bose soundbars, and the Sonos sub will not work with them.
- Can I use the Bose Sub 1 with a TV and a Sonos system?
- No. It pairs with Bose soundbars, not Sonos speakers. The Sonos Sub Gen 4 is the one that joins a Sonos system.
- Does either sub have a wired connection?
- The Bose Sub 1 has an XLR input. The Sonos Sub Gen 4 is wireless only, over Wi-Fi.
- Is the Sonos Sub Gen 4 worth the extra money?
- It is worth it if you already own Sonos speakers, because it adds deep bass and room tuning to that system. If you own Bose gear, the Bose Sub 1 is the one that fits.
- Which one is easier to place in a room?
- The Sonos Sub Gen 4, because it can stand upright or lie flat. The Bose Sub 1 is meant to sit on the floor.