WiiM, a rapidly growing audio streaming company, is directly challenging Sonos with its new WiiM Sound Lite smart speaker. Priced at $229 and launching December 25th, the Sound Lite is designed to compete with the Sonos Era 100 by offering high-resolution audio and multiroom capabilities at a competitive price.
Key Specs and Features
The WiiM Sound Lite boasts impressive hardware for its price point:
– 4-inch woofer for strong bass response
– Dual 1-inch tweeters for clear highs
– 100-watt peak output for room-filling sound
– Connectivity : Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and Ethernet port
The speaker is available in both black and white finishes. WiiM’s app integrates with popular streaming services like Spotify, Amazon Music, Tidal, Qobuz, and YouTube Music, and supports Google Cast, Alexa multiroom systems, and Roon Ready for flexibility.
The Voice Assistant Tradeoff
Unlike the Sonos Era 100, the WiiM Sound Lite does not include a built-in voice assistant. However, it can be paired with WiiM’s separate Voice Remote 2 Lite for voice control. This design choice keeps costs down but means users must rely on an external device for hands-free operation. The Sonos Era 100 is $10 cheaper than the WiiM Sound Lite, and features an integrated voice assistant.
Why This Matters
The emergence of WiiM as a serious competitor to Sonos is significant. Sonos has long dominated the multiroom audio space, but its higher price point has left an opening for more affordable alternatives. WiiM has quickly gained traction among audiophiles seeking high-end features without the premium cost. By offering a well-equipped speaker at $229, WiiM is making high-quality multiroom audio more accessible.
The WiiM Sound Lite will be available from Amazon and select retailers starting December 25th.
