In the growing smart soundbar market, few match the value and audio fidelity of the Sonos Beam Gen 2 and the Vizio M-Series 5.1.2. Both deliver immersive Dolby Atmos audio, integrate seamlessly with smart homes, and retail under $500 in 2025.
So which one wins? Whether you’re outfitting a cozy apartment or upgrading your living room theater, this head-to-head guide will help you choose the right soundbar for your budget and lifestyle.
Quick Spec Comparison
| Feature | Sonos Beam Gen 2 | Vizio M-Series 5.1.2 |
| Dolby Atmos | ✅ | ✅ |
| Voice Assistant | Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri (via AirPlay 2) | Alexa-compatible |
| Wireless Surround Speakers | ❌ (Sold separately) | ✅ Included |
| HDMI eARC | ✅ | ✅ |
| Wi-Fi Streaming | ✅ AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect | ✅ Chromecast, Bluetooth |
| Price | ~$449 | ~$399 |
Audio Performance Breakdown
Sonos Beam Gen 2
Compact yet powerful 5-speaker array
Virtualized Dolby Atmos via upfiring sound wave manipulation
Tuned via Trueplay (iOS only)
Amazing vocal clarity and bass boost for size
Vizio M-Series 5.1.2
Real upfiring Atmos speakers for height effects
Dedicated wireless subwoofer + rear speakers
Better for large rooms or cinematic setups
Slightly less refined mids than Sonos
Smart Features and App Integration
Sonos Beam Gen 2:
Sonos app: Multiroom audio, EQ, volume control
Works with Apple HomeKit (via AirPlay 2)
Built-in Alexa and Google Assistant
Integrates into existing Sonos systems
Vizio M-Series:
SmartCast app with Chromecast support
Works with Alexa speakers (not built-in)
Bluetooth streaming with lower latency
No multiroom integration without hacks
Best Use Scenarios
| Use Case | Winner |
| Apartment or Bedroom | Sonos Beam Gen 2 |
| Dedicated Home Theater Room | Vizio M-Series |
| Multiroom Audio Setup | Sonos Beam Gen 2 |
| Bass and Height-Driven Movies | Vizio M-Series |
User Experience & Setup
Sonos Beam Gen 2
One of the easiest soundbars to set up
Seamless HDMI eARC connection
Optional wall mount
Vizio M-Series
Simple setup but requires speaker placement
More cables and space needed
Includes mounting hardware
Verdict: Which One Is Right for You?
Choose the Sonos Beam Gen 2 if you:
Want a minimalist setup with smart features
Prioritize voice assistant integration and AirPlay 2
Use Sonos speakers or want to expand later
Choose the Vizio M-Series 5.1.2 if you:
Want real surround sound and powerful subwoofer bass
Have more space to dedicate to audio setup
Prefer budget-friendly home theater performance
