Best for On-device controls
Sonos Play
5.0 attribute score
Highest scored product for this attribute based on supporting review evidence.
Best Sonos Speakers for On-device controls
On-device controls Decision Dashboard
Safest pick
Sonos Era 100
4.9 attribute score
Balances the attribute score, supporting reviews, and overall product strength.
Most evidence
Sonos Move 2 Portable Speaker
6 supporting reviews
Has the broadest review evidence for this attribute.
Best overall product
Sonos Era 100 SL
4.3 overall score
Strongest overall product among items with scored evidence for this attribute.
The dedicated playback and volume controls are convenient and well liked, reducing the need to reach for a phone during everyday use.
Pros: Overall sound quality, Overall satisfaction
Cons: Price / value for money, App reliability
On-device controls received limited but strong praise, with one review calling the top touch controls a joy to use.
Pros: Value for money, Dialogue clarity (for TV/soundbar use)
Cons: Subwoofer, Bluetooth connectivity
Touch controls cover the core playback functions cleanly, letting users adjust volume, pause, play, and navigate tracks with simple gestures.
Pros: Overall satisfaction, Overall sound quality
Cons: Trueplay room tuning, Smart assistant integration (Alexa
The redesigned touch interface is a clear usability upgrade. Dedicated transport buttons and the indented volume slider make quick adjustments easier without reaching for a phone.
Pros: Bass performance, Overall sound quality
Cons: Google, Wired input
On-device controls were praised in one review for working well directly on the unit.
Pros: Value for money, Dialogue clarity (for TV/soundbar use)
Cons: Video passthrough support, Soundstage height
On-device controls were praised for tactile playback, volume and grouping functions, especially because they remain usable around water or without relying on the app.
Pros: Frequency response balance, Setup simplicity
Cons: Battery life (if portable), App reliability
On-device controls were mostly praised for responsiveness and convenience, but visibility outdoors drew one criticism.
Pros: Frequency response balance, Battery life (if portable)
Cons: Price / value for money, Weight convenience