Design and build:

Comparing Sonos Roam vs JBL Flip 6, the Roam is smaller in size and lightweight but the difference is not much. The Roam is a triangular shaped speaker whereas the Flip 6 has cylindrical design. While both have IP67 rating, the Roam is drop resistant. The Flip 6 has rubberized body that gives a good grip.

They are both suitable for outdoor use and you can take them anywhere like hiking, camping, picnics, climbing, cycling, by the pool or beach, etc. If you like to show off, then the JBL Flip 6 is good as it offers several color options compared to the Roam.

Performance:

Comparing Sonos Roam vs JBL Flip 6, the Flip 6 is great for music and podcasts whereas the Roam is much better with music and movies. JBL Flip 6 has 0.625" tweeter and 1.75" x 3" cone woofer along with two passive radiators that are driven by 30W of power.  Sonos Roam does not specify any driver size. It has a dome tweeter and a midwoofer driven by Class H amplifiers. JBL Flip 6 has a natural and warm sound with good sense of clarity and detail.

It has a neutral sound profile and deep low ends that is adequate to enjoy music. That said, you should not expect these speakers to have room shaking bass. It has average soundstage with good clarity in vocals. You can play it at high volumes without noticeable distortion but it is best at moderate levels. Compared to the Sonos Roam, the Flip 6 can get louder. It can easily fill medium sized spaces. Use the graphic EQ to change the sound tone as per your likings.

Sonos Roam is driven by high-efficient Class-H amplifier. It has good sonic accuracy and impactful bass. With decent loudness, this speaker is also suitable for mid-sized spaces. You can improve the sound with another Roam to create a stereo pair. Vocals and instrumental sounds are clear and loud. Adjust the bass and treble levels to tweak the sound.

Features:

Since the Sonos Roam works over Wi-Fi, it is more versatile than the JBL Flip 6. It is a part of Sonos multiroom audio and will connect to other Sonos player, amplifier or speaker. The Roam is packed with multiple features that are unavailable in Flip 6. It has Automatic switching between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. A feature called Sound swap will pass sound from Sonos Roam to other Sonos speakers and vice versa.

Another notable difference between the Roam and Flip 6 is, the Roam has built-in microphone. This far-field microphone can easily detect your phone. You can speak to Alexa or Google Assistant. There is another feature known as Sonos Voice Control with which you can control multiple Sonos products. With Airplay 2, the Sonos Roam can play audio in Airplay 2 speakers. Apple users and subscribers can get the most out of it. It allows you to talk to Siri in Apple devices.  

Connectivity:

Sonos Roam vs JBL Flip 6 comparison shows they differ in terms of connectivity as well. The Flip 6 is limited to Bluetooth whereas the Roam supports both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. JBL Flip 6 has the option to connect up to two devices at once, this is not available on Roam.

Multiple speaker pairing:

JBL Flip 6 can connect to JBL PartyBoost compatible speakers. Sonos Roam can connect to other Sonos products via Bluetooth. It can also create stereo pair with another Roam over Wi-Fi. While the JBL speakers should be within range to work, the Sonos is seamless in terms of connection. You can create audio system throughout the house in different rooms. It works with S2 OS.

Battery life:

Comparing JBL Flip 6 vs Sonos Roam, the Flip 6 has a slightly longer battery life of 8 hours. The Roam can last around 6 to 7 hours. It is more convenient to use and gives you the option of using Qi wireless charging base (sold seperately).

Control options:

Sonos Roam has play/pause, volume up/down, microphone buttons. Use the play/pause button to pair another speaker, next/previous track, then press the power button to perform Bluetooth pairing. JBL Flip 6 has play/pause, volume up/down, Bluetooth and PartyBoost buttons (for pairing another speaker) but you cannot go to previous track. They both have easy to press control options that are user-friendly.

The Roam uses Sonos S2 app that gives you access to loads of features like make favourite list, create room groups, set alarms. JBL Flip 6 works with the JBL Portable app.

Comparing JBL Flip 6 vs Sonos Roam, the Flip 6 is cheaper. It is available under $100 whereas the Sonos Roam is found under $150. With the additional cost, you will get smart features along with seamless setup in the Sonos ecosystem.

FAQ:

Will voice assistants in Sonos Roam work with any type of connection?

The voice assistants in Sonos Roam will only work over Wi-Fi. If you are using Bluetooth connection, this option will not be available. It offers you to mute the microphone to maintain your privacy.

Which speakers will the JBL Flip 6 be compatible with?

The Flip 6 can be paired with JBL PartyBoost compatible speakers like the Charge 5 or Pulse 4.