Sonos Bridge or Boost: Which One You Need?

Do I need a Sonos Bridge or Boost? Sonos Bridge and Boost are Wi-Fi router-connected devices that create an exclusive wireless network for your Sonos speaker.

This is an excellent way to improve the performance of your wireless network so that you can listen to music without interruptions.

If you have a busy Wi-Fi network that supports games, videos, and internet browsing, Sonos Bridge or Boost can be used. The device expands wireless coverage, allowing you to connect to the network from more locations. As a result, the Sonos system is strengthened in order to provide a continuous wireless connection.

You do not need to have a Bridge or Boost on your Sonos system. The speakers connect to your existing Wi-Fi setup without the use of any additional equipment.

The strength of your signal determines the outcome. If you’re streaming movies or playing video games on a crowded network, the Sonos Boost could come in handy.

When your speakers do not need to communicate directly with your router, the system may connect to your player more reliably.

The Sonos Bridge improves connectivity for the connections required by your speakers to your Sonos system. Boost is a more powerful and up-to-date version of this technology. For greater consistency, it establishes a dedicated mesh network on a separate channel. If your connections are erratic, you’ll need one.

It is not necessary to upgrade to the Boost if you are currently using a Sonos Bridge with your system.

Because of its improved features, Boost is a better option when purchasing a new Sonos system with multiple speakers.

Because Sonos speakers can connect to Wi-Fi on their own, you may not need either option. If you don’t have smart technology at home and only have a few computers, tablets, and laptops, you should be able to support your system with a direct connection.

Only when your Wi-Fi is incapable of supporting your Sonos system on its own does the Bridge or Boost become necessary.

You don’t require both. Understanding the differences between the two can assist you in selecting the best option for your system.

What Is the Difference between the Sonos Bridge vs Boost?

The Sonos Boost is a newer version of the Sonos Bridge. Both items serve the same purpose: they connect your speakers to the mesh network, allowing you to play high-quality sounds through your system.

When you use the Sonos Boost over the Sonos Bridge, you will receive three distinct benefits.

• It increases wireless range within your home by up to 50%.
• Three antennae are provided for 360-degree coverage that penetrates your ceilings and walls.
• Even when installed at a distance, advanced interference rejection improves the quality of sound received.

The Sonos Bridge or Sonos Boost are not required for most installations. You have everything you need if your home is 2,000 square feet or less and you have a broadband connection from your ISP.

If any of the following scenarios apply to your setup, it may be prudent to invest in the Bridge or Boost to improve it.

1. You Have Poor Wi-Fi

If your network speed is less than 5mpbs, you should consider purchasing the Sonos Bridge or Boost. This problem is most prevalent in rural areas with DSL or satellite connections.

Anyone who has an ISP that provides an unstable service or frequent pings may want to use one of these items to increase stability.

2. You Have Thick Walls

Wi-Fi signals pass relatively easily through standard sheetrock, plaster, and drywall. If your home’s walls are thicker due to the use of brick, stone, or other natural materials, getting the Sonos Bridge or Boost helps to keep your speakers adequately connected.

3. You Have Five or More Speakers

Each new item that connects to your system is analogous to adding a new computer or smart device to your system.

When you reach a certain threshold, the sheer volume of support required for the equipment begins to stifle everything.

If you have five or more speakers connected to your Sonos system, using Bridge or Boost can help reduce network competition.

4. Your House Is Big

End-to-end Wi-Fi coverage may not be available in a home larger than 2,000 square feet. The connection is usually routed to an office or entertainment area by most ISPs.

These rooms are typically located on one end of the house, which means that a system on the other side may not be properly connected.

Although Sonos Boost can improve network coverage, you may require a router upgrade or better positioning.

Alternative Video: What is Sonos Boost?

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How to Setup Your Sonos System without Sonos Bridge

When you first set up your Sonos system, you’ll need the product’s companion app to finish the job.

Install the app on your iOS or Android device. It’s also available in the Amazon Appstore.

Select the Sonos product that you want to install at home. If you have a new system, the app will walk you through the process of adding each one.

From start to finish, you can expect a six-step process.

1. Connect all of your Sonos devices to a power source that is compatible.
2. Join the devices to your current Wi-Fi network.
3. Launch the Sonos app on your mobile device.
4. You’ll see a message that says, “New Sonos product discovered,” and then click the “Learn More” button that appears.
5. When the “Set It Up” command appears, tap it.
6. To finish the Sonos system setup process, follow the remaining instructions in the app.

When the Sonos app has multiple system connections, it will recognize each one when your mobile device is connected to one of them.

If you do not want this result, you must complete the system forgetting process using the app’s software.

How to Remove a Bridge from Your Sonos System

In their companion app for your system, Sonos includes a Bridge removal tool. Using this software, you’ll discover the most effective way to remove equipment from your network.

The tool determines whether your Sonos speakers can establish a stable Wi-Fi connection. If the system is unable to complete this step, it will notify you that your Bridge must be replaced with the upgraded Boost.

To finish the removal process, follow these steps.

• On your iOS or Android device, launch the Sonos app. Navigate to the system menu from the settings tab. To finish the job, select the bridge removal command from the tools section and follow the on-screen instructions.
• Connect Sonos to your Wi-Fi network by updating its software to the most recent version. Tap the system menu in the companion app, then network options, and Wireless Setup. Finish the steps to connect your system to Wi-Fi. Once your speakers have been successfully connected, disconnect the Bridge from your router. It is beneficial to allow your products some time to connect. They’ll appear under the rooms tab.
• If your Bridge is linked to your Ethernet, first disconnect it from its power source before removing it from your network. Before connecting your Sonos item to power, connect it to the router. When the system boots up, the blinking light turns solid white, indicating that it is ready.

■ What If I Want to Replace Bridge with Boost?

If the Sonos companion app informed you that your equipment requires an upgrade to Boost, the steps to establish this connection are straightforward.

Instead of immediately disconnecting your Bridge, you must first add the Sonos Boost to your network.

It’s a good idea to have your router’s power and Ethernet cables ready before starting this process.

Once you’ve organized everything, go to the Sonos app’s settings tab. Select “Add Boost or Bridge” from the system menu.

The software will walk you through a series of on-screen prompts that you must follow.

Your app will detect the Bridge as long as it is still connected to your router. Select the “Connect to Router” option from the list that appears.

In the companion app, you’ll find another set of instructions for connecting your Boost to the router. More prompts appear, allowing the connection to function with your system.

If you don’t have any open ports on your router, connect the Sonos Boost to the Bridge’s second Ethernet option until you finish the setup process.

Once Boost is connected, you can uninstall Bridge from the router. If you had it wired to your Bridge to finish the job, your Boost could now take the place of the router connection.

■ Should I Remove My Old Sonos Bridge?

If you already have a working Sonos Bridge, there’s no reason to get rid of it. Your system is functioning properly.

Boost provides an enhanced experience, but it may be an unnecessary cost if your Wi-Fi or Bridge already supports your system.

When you don’t have any Wi-Fi issues at home, your speakers can wirelessly connect to your system and provide you with the listening experience you desire.

■ What Can I Do If I Don’t Want My Sonos Bridge?

If you upgraded to the Boost or chose to connect directly to your Wi-Fi, the Sonos Bridge is no longer required for your system.

Sonos recommends that you recycle the product at your local e-waste facility. If you don’t have a nearby location, the company will pay for shipping returns and perform the work themselves for most customers.

Because Sonos is not currently updating its old equipment, you may notice that speaker performance gradually declines while using the previous connections. An update may become necessary in the future.

■ Is It Better to Buy a Sonos Bridge or a Boost?

When Sonos introduced the Boost to their new systems, they discontinued the Bridge. It was once an essential component of the original ecosystem, but it is no longer required.

Changes to this setup became effective in May 2020. You can now connect the wireless multi-room speakers to your network.

If you still need to connect the system to something other than your router, the Boost is your best bet.

Do I Need a Sonos Bridge or Boost at Home?

Sonos is the system to have if you want to enjoy premium sound from inexpensive speakers while keeping a clean look.

Plug in the speakers and they’ll work with your current network. More can be added at any time using the companion app.

Is Sonos superior to Bose? This answer is determined by your personal preferences. When using Sonos products, it is unquestionably less expensive to build a complete system.

When using this equipment, you can access up to 60 different music services around the world.

With its stunning audio performance, you’ll always hear your favorite songs or watch your favorite movies or shows when you set it up with a Bridge or Boost, even if your Wi-Fi is weak or congested.

FAQs Sonos Bridge vs Boost