How to Set Up Your Sonos Roam

What You'll Need

• Sonos Roam
• Sonos app (iOS or Android)
• Wi-Fi network
• USB-C cable for charging (included)

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Charge the Sonos Roam via the included USB-C cable. Give it at least a partial charge before starting setup. The LED on the front shows the battery status.
2. Download the Sonos app and sign in to your Sonos account.
3. Press the power button on the back of the speaker to turn it on.
4. Open the Sonos app:
   • Tap "Add" and select Roam
   • Follow the setup instructions step by step
5. Connect to your Wi-Fi network so the Roam can join your Sonos system at home.
6. Assign a room name for the speaker.
7. Configure a voice assistant if you want Alexa or Google Assistant hands-free.

Placement and Sound Tips

The Roam is small enough to fit almost anywhere. At home, place it on a shelf, windowsill, or nightstand. It sounds surprisingly full for its size, but placing it near a wall can help reinforce the bass a bit. On the other hand, too close to a corner and the low end gets muddy.

When using it outdoors, the IP67 rating means it survives dunking in water up to a meter deep for 30 minutes. It handles sand, dirt, and splashes without any problems. Just avoid leaving it in direct sunlight for extended periods since heat can affect battery life over time.

The Roam also supports Auto Trueplay, which adjusts the sound profile based on its surroundings. Move it from your nightstand to the kitchen counter and it recalibrates automatically.

Sound Swap and Multi-Room

Sound Swap is one of the Roam's best tricks. Press and hold the play button while bringing the Roam close to another Sonos speaker, and the audio transfers from the Roam to that speaker (or vice versa). This is great for taking a podcast from your bedroom speaker and moving it to the Roam as you head out.

When connected to Wi-Fi at home, the Roam works as part of your full Sonos system. Group it with any other Sonos speakers for multi-room playback. Away from home, it switches to Bluetooth mode so you can stream directly from your phone.

Charging Options

The Roam charges via USB-C and is also compatible with any standard Qi wireless charger. Sonos sells a dedicated magnetic wireless charger for it, but any Qi pad works. A full charge takes about 2 hours and gives you roughly 10 hours of playback. If you are not using the speaker, it enters a sleep mode that preserves battery for days.

Troubleshooting

• Switching to Bluetooth: Press and hold the Bluetooth button on the back until the LED flashes blue. On your phone, go to Bluetooth settings and select the Roam. When you return home, the speaker will reconnect to Wi-Fi automatically.
• Sound Swap not working: Both the Roam and the target speaker must be on the same Sonos system and connected to Wi-Fi. Sound Swap does not work in Bluetooth mode.
• Will not charge: Try a different USB-C cable. Inspect the charging port for lint or debris and clean it gently with a toothpick if needed. If using a Qi charger, make sure the Roam is centered on the pad.
• Speaker not found during setup: Power cycle the Roam by holding the power button for 5 seconds to shut it off, then press again to turn it back on. Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone for initial discovery.
• Factory reset: Turn off the speaker by holding the power button for 5 seconds. Then press and hold the power button again and keep holding it through the reboot until you see the LED flash. The speaker will be wiped and ready for fresh setup.