5best Deal As the demand for high-quality home audio continues to grow with music streaming, companies like Samsung and Sonos are stepping up with innovative speaker designs that combine aesthetics with performance. This year, Samsung introduced the Music Frame, a speaker disguised as a picture frame, while Sonos released the Era 300, a sleek, design-forward speaker with a strong focus on audio quality. Both are premium speakers, but which is the better choice for you depends on your needs and ecosystem preferences.
Sonos Era 300
$379.99 At Amazon
Sonos Era 300 – Black – Wireless, Alexa Enabled Smart Speaker with Dolby Atmos.
Echo Studio
$149.99 At Amazon
Amazon Echo Studio | Our best-sounding smart speaker ever – With Dolby Atmos, spatial audio processing technology, and Alexa | Charcoal
Portable Wireless
$79.99 At Amazon
JVC Illuminated Portable Wireless Speaker with 30W max outputs, Dynamic Sound, Bluetooth 5.0, TWS Capability, USB-C, AUX in, up to 6-Hour Battery Life – SPPA7BTB (Black)
Speaker Portable
$66.21 At Amazon
Pyle 400W Rechargeable Outdoor Bluetooth Speaker Portable PA System w/ 8” Subwoofer 1” Tweeter, Recording Function, Mic In, Party Lights USB/SD, Radio – Pyle PPHP842B, BLACK
Samsung Music Frame
- Design & Functionality: The Music Frame is a high-quality speaker embedded within a picture frame that can display an 8-by-8-inch photo or artwork. Swapping out the picture is simple, making it an appealing choice for those who want their speaker to blend in with their home decor. Its slim and modern design is ideal for users who value both form and function.
- Compatibility: While the Music Frame works with all devices, it pairs best with Samsung products. It supports Bixby, Alexa, and Google for smart home integration and uses Bluetooth, USB-A, and Wi-Fi for connectivity. A key feature is its Q-Symphony, which allows it to sync with other Samsung speakers, providing an immersive sound experience.
- Audio Quality: The Music Frame shines when connected to a Samsung phone or soundbar, offering Dolby Atmos for rich, spatial sound.
- Dimensions & Weight: 13.8″ x 2.1″ x 13.8″, weighing 9.3 lb.
- Price: $399.99, available from Best Buy and Samsung.
Sonos Era 300
- Design & Simplicity: The Era 300 is a beautifully designed speaker that prioritizes simplicity and luxury. Its minimalist design makes it a stylish addition to any room. Though it lacks a photo display, it compensates with its clean aesthetic and straightforward touch controls.
- Compatibility: The Era 300 is highly compatible with Apple products, allowing seamless integration with AirPlay, Alexa, and Sonos Voice Control. It connects via Bluetooth, USB-C, and Wi-Fi, making it user-friendly for iPhone owners and those invested in the Apple ecosystem. You can pair it with other Sonos or HomePod speakers to create a custom sound system that adjusts volume for different rooms.
- Audio Quality: The Era 300 truly excels in sound performance. In tests, it filled a 1,400-square-foot living space with crystal-clear audio and powerful bass, providing an impressive Dolby Atmos experience. Whether you’re listening to classics like Aretha Franklin or newer artists like Zach Bryan, the Era 300 offers dynamic, room-filling sound.
- Dimensions & Weight: 10.24″ x 7.28″ x 6.3″, weighing 9.85 lb.
- Price: $449.99, available from Best Buy and Sonos.
Bottom Line: Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Samsung Music Frame and the Sonos Era 300 depends on your priorities:
- Samsung Music Frame: Ideal for those who want their speaker to double as an art piece, especially if you’re already using Samsung devices. Its design is a great blend of art and function, making it a perfect gift for commemorating special moments with a customizable photo display.
- Sonos Era 300: Best for audiophiles focused solely on sound quality. Its compatibility with Apple products and superior spatial audio make it an excellent choice for immersive music listening.
Both speakers offer premium audio, but if you’re more into design and blending your speaker into your living space, the Music Frame is the standout. For pure sound and ease of use with Apple devices, the Era 300 is hard to beat.
