Any Sonos soundbar improves your TV’s sound; the tough decision is which you should buy. The Arc and Beam are two great options.
I own a Beam 2 for my second TV, and I’m delighted with the performance. But the one that is right for you depends on your circumstances.
This article compares the Arc, Beam Gen 1, and Beam Gen 2 so you can pick the appropriate Sonos soundbar for your room. Key features are compared to help you decide.
Key Points
- The Sonos Arc has more speakers (11 vs 5) and has upfiring Dolby Atmos drivers. The Beam is smaller and cheaper.
- The Beam Gen 2 adds Dolby Atmos support and eARC over the original Beam, but only virtual Atmos technology.
- The Arc is better for large rooms and big TVs. The Beam fits smaller spaces.
- Consider room size, TV size, price, and audio features like Dolby Atmos when choosing between the two.
Main Topics
Soundbar Comparison
Speakers
| Sonos Arc | 11 Class-D digital amplifiers: 8 full-range woofers + 3 tweeters |
|---|---|
| Sonos Beam (Gen 1) | 5 Class-D digital amplifiers: 4 full-range woofers + 1 tweeter + 3 passive radiators |
| Sonos Beam (Gen 2) | 5 Class-D digital amplifiers: 4 full-range woofers + 1 tweeter + 3 passive radiators |
The Sonos Arc has the most speakers, with eleven discrete Class-D digital amplifiers that power eight full-range woofers and three tweeters.
The smaller Beam has just 5 Class-D amplifiers, which power four full-range drivers and a single tweeter. The Beam also has three passive radiators, which add extra bass to the sound.
Note that the Beam (Gen 2) has the same speaker layout as the original, but the difference is that the five drivers in the 2018 Beam speaker were designed as a 3-channel array.
However, the Gen 2 has a 5-channel array, so it can reproduce the additional Atmos surround and overhead audio.
While the speaker’s layout doesn’t match a surround sound layout exactly – you can say that the Arc is a 5.0.2 system, the Beam is a 3.0 speaker system and the Beam (Gen 2) is a 3.0.2 system.
The Arc soundbar has
- a center, front left, and front right forward-facing speakers (3.0)
- a surround speaker on either end (5.0)
- and two up-firing speakers for Dolby Atmos (5.0.2).
The Beam is more straightforward, but there is a difference between the two generations:
- Beam (Gen 1): a center, front left, and front right speaker layout (3.0).
- Beam (Gen 2): the same number of drivers but with an upgraded array arrangement for Atmos audio (3.0.2)
Crucially, the Dolby Atmos overhead audio in the Beam (Gen 2) is created with psychoacoustic HRTF technology. So, it doesn’t have the physical up-firing speakers like the Arc.
For more information, learn what to look for in a soundbar in the comprehensive buying guide.
If you want to add more bass to the sound, you can buy a Sonos Sub and pair it with either the Beam, Beam (Gen 2) or the Arc.
Rear Panel Connections
| Sonos Arc | 1x HDMI eARC/ARC, 1x Optical (with supplied adapter), 1x 10/100 Mbps Ethernet, Power |
|---|---|
| Sonos Beam (Gen 1) | 1x HDMI ARC, 1x Optical (with supplied adapter), 1x 10/100 Mbps Ethernet, Power |
| Sonos Beam (Gen 2) | 1x HDMI eARC/ARC, 1x Optical (with supplied adapter), 1x 10/100 Mbps Ethernet, Power |
All the soundbars have the same rear connections.
Although they are laid out differently, there is a connection for the power cable, an ethernet port, and an HDMI port.
The HDMI connection is for connecting to the HDMI ARC output on your TV – meaning it will send the sound from the TV to your soundbar.
The main difference here is the ARC and the Beam (Gen 2) support HDMI eARC – whereas the original Beam only has ARC.
HDMI eARC can send more data and support higher-resolution audio formats like Dolby TrueHD, but you will need a TV with an eARC HDMI connection to get this working to its full potential.
If not, all the models will work with any TV with an HDMI ARC connection – it’s just that you won’t get the high-resolution audio formats.
HDMI ARC is the recommended way of connecting the soundbar to your TV.
However, if your TV doesn’t have an HDMI ARC connection, the supplied adapter will convert HDMI to an optical connector.
Therefore, you can send the sound from your TV via a digital optical output – but still use the HDMI input on the soundbar.
The main downside of this is that you will be limited to fewer audio formats as you won’t get Dolby Digital Plus audio via optical.
Network Connections
| Sonos Arc | Ethernet, Wi-Fi (802.11b/g/n – 2.4GHz), Apple AirPlay 2 |
|---|---|
| Sonos Beam (Gen 1) | Ethernet, Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g – 2.4GHz), Apple AirPlay 2 |
| Sonos Beam (Gen 2) | Ethernet, Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n/ac – 2.4 or 5 GHz), Apple AirPlay 2 |
The network connection for the Arc and Beam is the same, and you will use this for networking multiple Sonos wireless speakers around your home – and for streaming audio from online services.
The setup manual recommends connecting to your Wi-Fi network, which is often the easiest way for most people.
However, if your Wi-Fi is slow or unreliable, connecting the ethernet port directly to your router with a cable is usually better.
It is often better to use a cable to stream video and audio as it is quicker and more reliable. However, for some people, a Wi-Fi connection is easier to get up and running.
The main improvement in the Beam (Gen 2) is support for AC wireless and the 5 GHz frequency band.
Supported Home Theater Audio Formats
| Sonos Arc | Dolby Digital Plus (+ Dolby Atmos), Dolby TrueHD (+ Dolby Atmos), DTS, Multichannel LPCM, Dolby Digital 5.1, Stereo PCM |
|---|---|
| Sonos Beam (Gen 1) | Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS (S2 app only), Stereo PCM |
| Sonos Beam (Gen 2) | Dolby Digital Plus (+ Dolby Atmos), Dolby TrueHD (+ Dolby Atmos), DTS, Multichannel LPCM, Dolby Digital 5.1, Stereo PCM |
The Sonos Arc and Beam (Gen 2) support the broadest range of home theater audio formats.
All the soundbars support stereo PCM and Dolby Digital 5.1 audio; this is all you will need for many TV shows and streaming services.
However, the Sonos Arc and Beam (Gen 2) will play higher bitrate Dolby Digital Plus audio – and even high-resolution Dolby TrueHD and multichannel LPCM audio.
However, your TV will need an eARC connection for the high-resolution audio.
There is also support for Dolby Atmos soundtracks with Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby TrueHD audio streams – and Sonos speakers now support DTS audio, although, for the older Beam (Gen 1), you will need to upgrade to the S2 app.
Top Panel Control Features
| Sonos Arc | Top panel capacitive touch control for volume up/down, previous/next track, play/pause, microphone mute and status LED |
|---|---|
| Sonos Beam (Gen 1) | Top panel capacitive touch control for volume up/down, previous/next track, play/pause, microphone mute and status LED |
| Sonos Beam (Gen 2) | Top panel capacitive touch control for volume up/down, previous/next track, play/pause, microphone mute and status LED |
The Arc, Beam and Beam (Gen 2) have similar top panel control features.
They support swipe, touch, and tap for volume up and down, play/pause, and next/previous.
You can also use Alexa voice control or the Sonos app to perform these functions, and there is also a microphone indicator, which can be used to turn voice control on and off.
Plus, the status light will indicate any issues with the soundbar’s performance.
Voice Control
| Sonos Arc | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri |
|---|---|
| Sonos Beam (Gen 1) | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri |
| Sonos Beam (Gen 2) | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri |
The Arc, Beam (Gen 2) and Beam all offer support for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice control.
You can use these to play music, set alarms, and answer questions – all without lifting a finger.
Plus, each soundbar offers AirPlay 2 support, so you can also control your Sonos speaker using Siri on your iOS device.
Accessories
| Sonos Arc | Power cable, HDMI cable, optical audio adapter |
|---|---|
| Sonos Beam (Gen 1) | Power cable, HDMI cable, optical audio adapter |
| Sonos Beam (Gen 2) | Power cable, HDMI cable, optical audio adapter |
The supplied accessories are identical for the Sonos Arc, Beam and Beam (Gen 2).
You will get a power cable for connecting to your mains power supply – plus an HDMI cable and an optical audio adapter.
The optical adapter connects a TV to the soundbar that doesn’t have an HDMI ARC connector – only an optical audio output.
Therefore, everything you need to get going is supplied with the unit.
Dimensions
| Sonos Arc (W x H x D) | 45 x 3.4 x 4.5 in (1141.7 x 87 115.7 mm) |
|---|---|
| Sonos Beam (Gen 1 – W x H x D) | 25.63 x 2.7 x 3.94 in (651 x 68.5 x 100 mm) |
| Sonos Beam (Gen 2 – W x H x D) | 25.63 x 2.7 x 3.94 in (651 x 68.5 x 100 mm) |
The Arc is larger than the Beam and much wider, taller, and deeper, while the Beam and Beam (Gen 2) are the same dimensions.
You should allow for this when considering where to install the soundbar.
Do you have enough space on your TV stand? Will the soundbar block the view of the screen?
If so, you might need to consider wall-mounting the soundbar.
The Arc would generally work better in a larger room with a big TV, whereas the Beam would be best in a smaller room with a smaller TV and a reduced viewing distance.
However, there isn’t a rule saying you can’t use the larger Arc with a small TV – or pair the smaller Beam with a big TV.
But, the TV sound may work slightly better if the soundbar’s width is similar to the screen width because it will feel more as if the sound matches the location of the action on the screen.
Sonos recommends the Beam models for TVs 49″ and smaller and the Arc for TVs over 49″. But you don’t have to stick to that if you don’t want to.
This is less important if you sit further away from the TV as the sound will spread around the room more.
But, the Arc will be able to project the sound better if you are further away as it has more speakers and a more powerful sound.
Wall-Mountable?
| Sonos Arc | Sonos Arc wall mount kit: 1/8″ / 3 mm bit drill (wood), 5/16″ / 8 mm bit (drywall (no stud), plaster, concrete or brick) |
|---|---|
| Sonos Beam (Gen 1) | Sonos Beam wall mount kit: 1/8″ / 3 mm bit drill (wood), 5/16″ / 8 mm bit (drywall (no stud), plaster, concrete or brick) |
| Sonos Beam (Gen 2) | Sonos Beam wall mount kit: 1/8″ / 3 mm bit drill (wood), 5/16″ / 8 mm bit (drywall (no stud), plaster, concrete or brick) |
All the soundbars can be wall-mounted.
Using the dedicated wall mount kit that can be purchased separately from Sonos is recommended – and there is a different kit for the Arc and the Beam/Beam (Gen 2).
A dedicated wall mount for the Sonos Arc soundbar.
- Specifically designed for the Arc soundbar
- Made by Sonos
- Low-profile, near-invisible fit
- Includes fixing hardware
- Only for the Sonos Arc - you'll need a different version for the other soundbars
- Third-party wall mounts might be cheaper
However, if you are handy with DIY, you could install a separate shelf and place the soundbar on this instead, and there are third-party Sonos wall mount kits that can be cheaper.
Most people install soundbars below the TV screen, but there is nothing to stop you from wall-mounting a soundbar above the TV if that is more convenient.
Just make sure that you can reach the top panel touch controls.
Check out the article on alternative soundbar mounting ideas for more inspiration in placing the speaker.
Price
| Sonos Arc (MSRP) | $899 |
|---|---|
| Sonos Beam (Gen 1 – MSRP) | $399 |
| Sonos Beam (Gen 2 – MSRP) | $449 |
As you would expect, it is the most expensive model because the Sonos Arc is bigger and has more features.
The smaller Sonos Beam retails at around half the price of the Arc, so you can save some money if you buy the Beam.
The newer Beam (Gen 2) retails slightly more than the original 2018 Beam, and although it is around $50 more expensive, it does come with upgraded sound and a more powerful processor.
It’s always best to think carefully about both models’ features before deciding which one to buy.
It may be that the smaller Beam offers everything that you want, so don’t feel you must buy the more expensive version.
Also, keep an eye on the price around holidays and popular retail events like Black Friday. It is common for Sonos products to be reduced, and you might pick up a bargain.
Which One Should You Buy: Sonos Arc or Beam?
Any of these soundbars will do a great job of improving your TV’s sound.
All Sonos soundbars offer good sound, easily connect to your TV, and integrate with streaming services and multi-room audio.
The Sonos Arc is better for those with a large TV or who need to fill a big room with sound.
A high-quality 45-inch soundbar that is perfect for larger TVs and rooms.
- 5.0.2 speakers built-in
- Center speaker for clear dialogue
- Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio support
- Sonos streaming services included
- Expensive to add extra speakers like a subwoofer and surround speakers
- Limited inputs
It also supports Dolby Atmos soundtracks and has built-in up-firing Dolby Atmos speakers.
However, if you have a small TV and want a soundbar that is a little more discrete, then the Sonos Beam would probably be a better choice.
A high-quality 25-inch soundbar that will work well in small to medium-sized rooms.
- Top-quality Sonos speaker technology
- 3.0.2 channels – center & Dolby Atmos upfiring speakers
- It supports high-resolution audio formats
- Compact 25-inch soundbar
- You can create a 5.1 system with additional Sonos speakers
- It might be too small for a large screen and room
- Limited inputs
It would also suit a smaller room size – and it’s cheaper, so it might be the best choice if you don’t want to spend too much money.
The new Sonos Beam (Gen 2) has many of the advantages of the original Beam – and does cost slightly more – however you get a more powerful processor, eARC and Dolby Atmos audio support and an updated design.
Either way, you won’t be disappointed.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you want to know more, here are the answers to some common questions regarding the Sonos Beam and Arc soundbars.
What Is the Difference Between the Sonos Arc and Beam Soundbars?
The main difference between the Sonos Arc and Beam soundbars is the size. The Sonos Arc is 45 inches wide and has 11 digital speaker drivers with eight woofers and three tweeters. Whereas the Sonos Beam is 25 inches wide and has 5 digital amplifiers with four woofers and one tweeter.
Which Sonos Soundbar Should You Buy for Your TV?
Sonos recommends that the Arc is ideal for TVs above 49 inches, and the Beam is better suited to TVs of 49 inches and below.
What Is the Difference Between the Original Sonos Beam and the Beam (Gen 2) Soundbar?
The main differences are the Beam (Gen 2) has a more powerful processor, an updated design and support for higher resolution Dolby TrueHD and Dolby Atmos audio with an HDMI eARC connection.
Do You Need a TV With eARC to Use the Sonos Arc or Beam (Gen 2)?
No. If you have a TV with an eARC HDMI connection, you can listen to high-resolution Dolby Atmos audio with Dolby Atmos. However, the Arc and Beam (Gen 2) will also work with standard HDMI ARC or optical audio connections – you just won’t get the high-resolution audio formats.
Is the Dolby Atmos Performance the Same Between the Sonos Arc and Beam (Gen 2)?
No. The Arc will provide a slightly better Dolby Atmos experience because it has two dedicated upfiring speakers built into the soundbar. Alternatively, Beam (Gen 2) uses psychoacoustic HRTF technology to create a virtual overhead experience.
About The Author
Paul started the Home Cinema Guide to help less-experienced users get the most out of today's audio-visual technology. He has been a sound, lighting and audio-visual engineer for around 20 years. At home, he has spent more time than is probably healthy installing, configuring, testing, de-rigging, fixing, tweaking, re-installing again (and sometimes using) various pieces of hi-fi and home cinema equipment. You can find out more here.
