Wireless speakers / Compare

JBL Authentics 500 vs Sonos Era 300

A

Product A: JBL

Authentics 500

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B

Product B: Sonos

Era 300

38 of 96 known

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Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

AJBL Authentics 500

BSonos Era 300

General

6 of 8 differ

Series

Authentics1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026Spec sheet and press material name the Authentics series with the 200, 300 and 500.

Not available

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

JBLAUTH500BLKAM, JBLAUTH500BLKEP, JBLAUTH500BLKUK6Reviewtrustedreviews.com/reviews/jbl-authentics-500Read 16 October 2026Spec table gives UK model JBLAUTH500BLKUK.11Retailer pagemedimax.de/p/1422285/authentics-500Read 16 October 2026Manufacturer item number JBLAUTH500BLKEP for the EU version.12Retailer pageelectronicexpress.com/catalog/212297/jbl-authentic500-authentics-500-smart-home-bluetooth-speaker-blackRead 16 October 2026US item JBLAUTH500BLKAM.

E30G1US1BLK, E30G1US1, S411Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Store page data: SKU E30G1US1BLK Black and E30G1US1 White. S41 is the regulatory model number in the Sonos EU declaration of conformity.5Regulatory filingsonos.com/pdfs/conformity/era-300-it.pdfRead 15 October 2026EU declaration of conformity dated 7 March 2023: product ERA 300, model number S41.

GTIN / EAN

050036396264, 120013000068311Retailer pagemedimax.de/p/1422285/authentics-500Read 16 October 2026German listing for JBLAUTH500BLKEP gives EAN 1200130000683. The check digit is valid.12Retailer pageelectronicexpress.com/catalog/212297/jbl-authentic500-authentics-500-smart-home-bluetooth-speaker-blackRead 16 October 2026US listing for JBLAUTH500BLKAM gives UPC 050036396264.

840136805595, 8401368055881Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026GTIN-13 in the store page data: 840136805595 for E30G1US1BLK Black and 840136805588 for E30G1US1 White.

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

30 August 20238Press articletomsguide.com/news/jbl-unveils-new-authentics-smart-speaker-with-obscene-270w-of-power-at-ifa-2023Read 16 October 2026Published 30 August 2023 before IFA 2023 opened on 1 September. Reports the JBL launch of the Authentics series.

7 March 20234Press releaseen.community.sonos.com/product-updates/introducing-era-300-6880781Read 15 October 2026Sonos staff post of March 7, 2023: Era 300 pre-order today, global availability from March 28, 2023.

Status

Available5Reviewwhathifi.com/reviews/jbl-authentics-500Read 16 October 2026Review page lists the speaker with current UK retail offers from Amazon, JBL UK, Richer Sounds and Peter Tyson.

Available1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Offered for sale on the maker store in October 2026 with an Add to cart button.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$699.954Reviewtechradar.com/audio/hi-fi/wireless-bluetooth-speakers/jbl-authentics-500-reviewRead 16 October 2026Review lists $699.99 / GBP 579.99 / AU$999. The US launch price stored is $699.95 from AFTVnews. The two differ by four cents.8Press articletomsguide.com/news/jbl-unveils-new-authentics-smart-speaker-with-obscene-270w-of-power-at-ifa-2023Read 16 October 2026Quoted as $699, which fits both 699.95 and 699.99.9Press articleaftvnews.comRead 16 October 2026Announcement report: Authentics 500 for $699.95. TechRadar and audioXpress write $699.99. The 699.95 value follows JBL's usual US price style. Tax treatment is not stated.

$4493Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sonos.com/media-kits/hardware/era-300/era300factsheet.pdfRead 15 October 2026USD $449 / GBP 449 / EUR 499 / AUD $749. Prices exclude US sales tax.4Press releaseen.community.sonos.com/product-updates/introducing-era-300-6880781Read 15 October 2026$449 USD.11Reviewwhathifi.com/reviews/sonos-era-300Read 15 October 2026Review: tested at 449 GBP / $449 / AU$749.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

€629.996Reviewtrustedreviews.com/reviews/jbl-authentics-500Read 16 October 2026Spec table lists EU RRP 629.99 EUR. Launch coverage by Tom's Guide and Stereonet rounds it to 629 EUR. German retailers list the same 629.99 EUR as UVP including VAT.8Press articletomsguide.com/news/jbl-unveils-new-authentics-smart-speaker-with-obscene-270w-of-power-at-ifa-2023Read 16 October 2026Launch price quoted as $699 / GBP 579 / 629 EUR. Stored value 629.99 EUR is the retail UVP, which matches. Tax treatment is not stated here, EU prices include VAT.10Press articlestereonet.com/news/jbl-unveils-classic-style-authentics-wireless-speakers-at-ifa-2023Read 16 October 2026Authentics 500 sold for 629 EUR at launch.

€4993Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sonos.com/media-kits/hardware/era-300/era300factsheet.pdfRead 15 October 2026EUR 499 launch price, tax as published for the EU.4Press releaseen.community.sonos.com/product-updates/introducing-era-300-6880781Read 15 October 2026449 GBP, 499 EUR and 749 AUD alongside the USD price.

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

US, EU, GB6Reviewtrustedreviews.com/reviews/jbl-authentics-500Read 16 October 2026Spec table gives UK and EU recommended prices.

US3Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sonos.com/media-kits/hardware/era-300/era300factsheet.pdfRead 15 October 2026Available from March 28, 2023 in the United States and many other countries. The stored market is the US, which matches the USD launch price.

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black6Reviewtrustedreviews.com/reviews/jbl-authentics-500Read 16 October 2026Spec table lists Black only.8Press articletomsguide.com/news/jbl-unveils-new-authentics-smart-speaker-with-obscene-270w-of-power-at-ifa-2023Read 16 October 2026All models available in black.

Black, White1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Tech specs: Black, White. Finish matte.

Speaker typeiHome covers speakers made to stay in one place, including smart speakers. A speaker with Wi-Fi or a voice assistant can be of any type.

Home1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026Maker calls it a connected hi-fi speaker with retro design for the home. It runs on mains power (100-240 V AC) and the maker lists no battery.

Home1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Sonos sells Era 300 as a mains-powered home speaker with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It is not a portable speaker.

Audio

6 of 18 differ

Audio channelsiSound channels reproduced by one speaker. Pairing two speakers for stereo is separate.

Other1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026Sound system is listed as 3.1 and Dolby Atmos Music, with virtual Dolby Atmos. The enum has no 3.1 option, so other is stored.

Other3Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sonos.com/media-kits/hardware/era-300/era300factsheet.pdfRead 15 October 2026Factsheet: six drivers direct sound left, right, forward and upward, and Era 300 is a multi-channel device for Dolby Atmos Music. It also plays a stereo soundstage. The enum has no spatial option, so other is stored. RTINGS calls it a stereo speaker.

Audio driversiPowered audio transducers in one speaker. Passive radiators are counted separately. Circular diameter and rectangular width and height have separate columns. Per-driver power must state continuous or RMS basis and battery or mains operation in the source note.

AJBL Authentics 500

Driver type	Count	Diameter (mm)
Aluminum dome tweeter	3	25
Midrange driver	3	69.85
Down-firing subwoofer	1	165

Source1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026Three 25 mm AI aluminum dome tweeters, three 69.85 mm (2.75 in) midrange drivers and one 16.5 cm (6.5 in) down-firing subwoofer, plus the SlipStream bass port. The sheet gives no per-driver power.

BSonos Era 300

Driver type	Count
Forward-firing tweeter	1
Side-firing tweeter	2
Upward-firing tweeter (horn-loaded)	1
Woofer	2

Source1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Tech specs: four tweeters (one forward-firing mid tweeter, two side-firing mid tweeters and one upward-firing tweeter loaded into a directional horn) and two woofers angled left and right. Six Class-D amplifiers drive them. Driver sizes and power are not published by the maker.

Passive radiatorsiPassive, unpowered bass radiators. Excludes powered drivers.

Not available

Not available

Rated audio poweriMaker-published total rated continuous audio output. Battery power is used for portable speakers when mains and battery ratings differ. Peak marketing power is separate.

Not available

Not available

Rated audio power on mainsiTotal rated continuous audio output with external power. Store a separate battery rating when the maker publishes both.

Not available

Not available

Audio output power (unspecified rating)iMaker- or reviewer-published audio output power whose continuous or peak rating basis is not stated. This is separate from rated continuous output and explicitly published peak output.

270W1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026Total speaker output power (max at 1% THD): 270 W. The sheet does not say continuous or peak, so the unspecified-rating field is used.

Not available

Peak audio poweriExplicitly published peak audio output. Never substitute for rated continuous output.

Not available

Not available

Frequency response lower limit (claimed)iPublished acoustic frequency response limit. Tolerance and operating mode belong in the source note. The Bluetooth transmission range that some spec tables and retailers label Frequency Response, such as A2DP 20 to 20,000 Hz, is not stored.

40Hz1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 202640 Hz to 20 kHz at -6 dB.

Not available

Frequency response upper limit (claimed)iPublished acoustic frequency response limit. Tolerance and operating mode belong in the source note. The Bluetooth transmission range that some spec tables and retailers label Frequency Response, such as A2DP 20 to 20,000 Hz, is not stored.

20kHz1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 202640 Hz to 20 kHz at -6 dB.

Not available

Signal-to-noise ratio (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Adjustable equalizeriUser-adjustable frequency bands. Selecting fixed sound presets alone does not qualify.

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026Volume, bass and treble controls on the speaker. The JBL One app adds equalizer settings.3Maker product pageapps.apple.com/us/app/jbl-one/id1610239857Read 16 October 2026Version 1.9.11 (25 October 2024) upgraded the equalizer with presets and more advanced customization.4Reviewtechradar.com/audio/hi-fi/wireless-bluetooth-speakers/jbl-authentics-500-reviewRead 16 October 2026App equalizer lets users adjust mid as well as bass and treble. No presets at review time. The band count was not stored because the app equalizer was later upgraded.

Yes1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Adjustable EQ: use the Sonos app to adjust bass, treble and loudness.2Owner's manualsonos.com/en-us/guides/era300Read 15 October 2026Specifications: adjustable EQ for bass, treble and loudness in the Sonos app.

Equalizer bandsiNumber of user-adjustable frequency bands. Do not count sound presets.

Not available

21Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Bass and treble are two adjustable bands. Loudness is a switch and is not counted as a band.

Automatic sound adjustmentiAdjusts audio to placement or playback conditions. Keep the named feature and conditions in the source note.

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026Auto-tuning: the speaker calibrates and optimizes audio for each location every time it is powered on.2Owner's manualsupport.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw3fc8d3e6/pdfs/HA_JBL_Authentics_200_&_500_OM_V8_ES-MX-.pdfRead 16 October 2026Section 8.1.2: auto-tuning starts each time the speaker is connected to power and music starts. It takes three minutes and uses the microphones. It is disabled when the microphone is off.

Yes1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Trueplay software measures the acoustics of the room and fine-tunes the EQ. Quick tuning uses the microphones in the speaker. Advanced tuning needs an iOS device. The microphone switch must be on.2Owner's manualsonos.com/en-us/guides/era300Read 15 October 2026Trueplay measures how sound reflects off walls and furnishings and tunes the speaker. Quick tuning uses the product microphones.

Sound modesiNamed playback modes. Battery extension modes are also qualified in battery source notes.

Not available

Not available

Wireless stereo pairingiTwo compatible speakers can play separate left and right channels.

Yes2Owner's manualsupport.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw3fc8d3e6/pdfs/HA_JBL_Authentics_200_&_500_OM_V8_ES-MX-.pdfRead 16 October 2026The manual does not describe stereo pairing. See the JBL One app source.3Maker product pageapps.apple.com/us/app/jbl-one/id1610239857Read 16 October 2026Harman's JBL One app version history: version 1.7.19 (25 March 2024) added stereo pairing for the Authentics 500. Pairing depends on the model.

Yes1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Page: pair identical speakers for richer stereo sound.2Owner's manualsonos.com/en-us/guides/era300Read 15 October 2026Specifications: stereo pair turns two speakers into separate left and right channel speakers. The pair must be the same speaker type.

Speaker link protocolsiNamed systems for linking compatible speakers, such as PartyBoost, Auracast or Party Connect. Linking support does not establish compatibility across all models.

AirPlay 2 multi-room, Chromecast built-in multi-room, Alexa Multi-Room Music2Owner's manualsupport.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw3fc8d3e6/pdfs/HA_JBL_Authentics_200_&_500_OM_V8_ES-MX-.pdfRead 16 October 2026Section 7.1.6 covers multi-room playback with Chromecast, AirPlay and Alexa Multi-Room Music speakers. Up to 6 Chromecast speakers depending on network bandwidth. Max linked speakers is not stored because only the Chromecast limit is stated.

Sonos Wi-Fi grouping1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Controls and page copy let you group or ungroup Sonos products. Grouping runs over Wi-Fi in the Sonos system. No maximum group size is published for this speaker.

Max linked speakersiPublished maximum in a speaker group. A stereo pair is recorded separately. A figure such as 100+ is stored as 100.

Not available

Not available

Max Bluetooth group speakersiPublished maximum speakers in one Bluetooth playback group, including the first speaker. Source notes name the compatible models or families, linking system and firmware requirements. Wi-Fi groups and concurrent Bluetooth source devices are excluded. A stereo pair alone does not establish the maximum when other Bluetooth linking systems are supported. A figure such as 100+ is stored as 100.

Not available

Not available

Connectivity

6 of 16 differ

Bluetooth audio playbackiPlays audio streamed over Bluetooth from a phone or other source. Bluetooth used only for setup or app control does not count.

Yes6Reviewtrustedreviews.com/reviews/jbl-authentics-500Read 16 October 20267Reviewblog.bestbuy.ca/review/jbl-authentics-500-high-fidelity-powered-speaker-reviewRead 16 October 2026

Yes10Press articlewhathifi.com/news/sonos-era-300-and-era-100-speakers-are-officialRead 15 October 202611Reviewwhathifi.com/reviews/sonos-era-300Read 15 October 2026

Bluetooth versioniVersion of the Bluetooth radio. Some Wi-Fi speakers use Bluetooth only for setup. See Bluetooth audio playback.

5.31Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026Bluetooth 5.3.2Owner's manualsupport.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw3fc8d3e6/pdfs/HA_JBL_Authentics_200_&_500_OM_V8_ES-MX-.pdfRead 16 October 2026

5.31Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Tech specs: Bluetooth 5.3 supports audio streaming from any Bluetooth-enabled device. The EU test summary and the user guide also say 5.3. The 2023 launch factsheet and What Hi-Fi say 5.0.2Owner's manualsonos.com/en-us/guides/era300Read 15 October 2026Specifications: Bluetooth 5.3.6Regulatory filingsonos.com/pdfs/policies/sonos-eu-2023-826-era300-test-report.pdfRead 15 October 2026EU energy-related product test summary for model S41: performance specification Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax, Bluetooth 5.3.

Bluetooth codecsiExplicitly supported receive codecs. Bluetooth version alone does not establish codecs.

SBC6Reviewtrustedreviews.com/reviews/jbl-authentics-500Read 16 October 2026Only SBC is stored. This review says SBC and AAC. Best Buy Canada's review says the speaker only supports SBC. SBC is the only codec all sources agree on. AAC is left out because of the conflict.7Reviewblog.bestbuy.ca/review/jbl-authentics-500-high-fidelity-powered-speaker-reviewRead 16 October 2026Spec list says Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC codec. Review text says it only supports the basic SBC protocol.

SBC, AAC10Press articlewhathifi.com/news/sonos-era-300-and-era-100-speakers-are-officialRead 15 October 2026Launch coverage: Bluetooth with the standard SBC and AAC codecs. The same article writes Bluetooth 5.0, which conflicts with the current maker pages, so the version comes from the maker.11Reviewwhathifi.com/reviews/sonos-era-300Read 15 October 2026Review spec summary: Bluetooth 5.0 (SBC, AAC). The version differs from the maker pages and is not stored from here.

Bluetooth profiles

A2DP 1.3.2, AVRCP 1.51Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026A2DP 1.3.2 and AVRCP 1.5.2Owner's manualsupport.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw3fc8d3e6/pdfs/HA_JBL_Authentics_200_&_500_OM_V8_ES-MX-.pdfRead 16 October 2026

Not available

Bluetooth LE AudioiExplicit LE Audio support. Bluetooth LE for app control alone does not qualify.

Not available

Not available

AuracastiExplicit Auracast support. Sending, receiving and speaker-group roles belong in source notes.

Not available

Not available

MultipointiConcurrent Bluetooth source connections. Pairing memory and speaker-to-speaker linking do not qualify.

Yes2Owner's manualsupport.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw3fc8d3e6/pdfs/HA_JBL_Authentics_200_&_500_OM_V8_ES-MX-.pdfRead 16 October 2026Section 5.2.3: the speaker supports multipoint connection and a second Bluetooth device can pair without disconnecting the first. The number of devices is not stated.

Not available

Multipoint source devicesiMaximum concurrently connected Bluetooth source devices, not remembered pairings.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth range (claimed)iMaker-claimed Bluetooth range to the source device. Test conditions belong in the source note.

10m2Owner's manualsupport.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw3fc8d3e6/pdfs/HA_JBL_Authentics_200_&_500_OM_V8_ES-MX-.pdfRead 16 October 2026Section 5.2.3: the Bluetooth connection is lost beyond 10 m (33 ft). Stored as the maker's stated range.

Not available

Wi-FiiBuilt-in Wi-Fi, for audio streaming, setup or control.

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026

Yes1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Tech specs: compatible with WiFi 6, any 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz router.

Wi-Fi standardsiOne 802.11 name per item, such as 802.11ax. A Wi-Fi generation is written as its standard, so Wi-Fi 5 is 802.11ac and Wi-Fi 6 is 802.11ax. Older standards are listed only when a source names them.

802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ax1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.2Owner's manualsupport.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw3fc8d3e6/pdfs/HA_JBL_Authentics_200_&_500_OM_V8_ES-MX-.pdfRead 16 October 2026Section 9, Authentics 500 column: IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax.

802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ax1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Tech specs list 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax.6Regulatory filingsonos.com/pdfs/policies/sonos-eu-2023-826-era300-test-report.pdfRead 15 October 2026Same test summary lists Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax.

Network audio protocolsiNamed systems that stream audio to the speaker over the home network. AirPlay is written as AirPlay 2. Chromecast built-in is written as Google Cast. Other names follow the maker, such as Spotify Connect.

AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Alexa Multi-Room Music, Alexa Cast, Tidal Connect, Roon Ready1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026Sheet names AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music, Chromecast built-in and Spotify Connect. Alexa Cast and Roon Ready are from the manual. Tidal Connect is from reviews.2Owner's manualsupport.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw3fc8d3e6/pdfs/HA_JBL_Authentics_200_&_500_OM_V8_ES-MX-.pdfRead 16 October 2026Sections 5 and 7 name Chromecast built-in, AirPlay 2, Alexa Multi-Room Music, Alexa Cast and Spotify Connect. The trademark page names Roon Ready.4Reviewtechradar.com/audio/hi-fi/wireless-bluetooth-speakers/jbl-authentics-500-reviewRead 16 October 2026Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, AirPlay 2, Alexa and Chromecast listed.5Reviewwhathifi.com/reviews/jbl-authentics-500Read 16 October 2026Review lists AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect, plus Alexa Multiroom.

AirPlay 21Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Works with AirPlay 2 on Apple devices with iOS 11.4 and higher. Sonos app streaming is separate.

USB audio inputiPlayback from a connected computer or phone through USB. Charging, service ports and USB flash-drive playback do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

USB drive playbackiPlayback of audio files on a connected USB storage device.

Not available

Not available

USB audio file formats

Not available

Not available

PortsiPhysical speaker connectors. Record charging, audio input, power output and service roles separately. A shared microphone and guitar jack is one port. A combo jack that takes XLR and 6.35 mm plugs is 6.35 mm audio, and the role names XLR. Optical is a TOSLINK digital audio socket.

AJBL Authentics 500

Connector	Count	Role
AC power	1	Mains power input for the supplied power cord
3.5 mm audio	1	AUX audio input
Other	1	Ethernet (RJ45) network connection
USB-C	1	Service port outside the US. On the US version it also plays MP3 and WAV files from USB storage. Rated 5 V DC, 1 A

Source2Owner's manualsupport.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw3fc8d3e6/pdfs/HA_JBL_Authentics_200_&_500_OM_V8_ES-MX-.pdfRead 16 October 2026Rear panel: power, USB, AUX (3.5 mm), Ethernet and a microphone slider. USB plays MP3 files only on the US version. Section 9: USB-C, 5 V DC 1 A, and USB playback in the US version while other versions use USB for service only.4Reviewtechradar.com/audio/hi-fi/wireless-bluetooth-speakers/jbl-authentics-500-reviewRead 16 October 2026Review lists USB-C, Ethernet, 3.5 mm aux and a 2-pin power port.6Reviewtrustedreviews.com/reviews/jbl-authentics-500Read 16 October 2026Review lists a 3.5 mm aux input, an Ethernet socket and a USB-C port that is for service outside the US, plus a figure-of-8 power connector.

BSonos Era 300

Connector	Count	Role
USB-C	1	Line-in with the Sonos Line-In Adapter or Ethernet with the Sonos Combo Adapter, both sold separately. Not a power port
AC power	1	Mains power input

Source1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Tech specs: one USB-C port for the Sonos Line-In Adapter or the Sonos Combo Adapter for Ethernet, both sold separately. 100-240V 50/60Hz internal power supply with a 6 ft (2 m) power cable. The user guide says the USB-C port is not a power source for the speaker and must not charge other devices.

Controls and software

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SpeakerphoneiBuilt-in microphone and call support, through a connected phone or a voice assistant's calling. A microphone used only for voice commands does not count. Microphone inputs for karaoke are separate.

Not available

No1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026No phone call feature is listed. The microphone array serves voice control and Trueplay.12Reviewrtings.com/speaker/reviews/sonos/era-300Read 15 October 2026Public headline row: Speakerphone No.

Voice assistantsiVoice assistants explicitly usable through the speaker, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri or Sonos Voice Control. State whether a connected phone is required.

Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa work at the same time through built-in microphones. They may not be available in all countries or languages.2Owner's manualsupport.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw3fc8d3e6/pdfs/HA_JBL_Authentics_200_&_500_OM_V8_ES-MX-.pdfRead 16 October 2026Section 6: Google Assistant and Alexa are set up in the JBL One app and used by voice over the home network. Bluetooth mode does not support voice commands. No phone is needed once set up.13Press releaseharman.com/india/pages/JBL-Introduces-Authentics-Series-of-In-Home-Audio-Speakers;-Blends-Timeless-Retro-Style-with-Premium-Sound.aspxRead 16 October 2026Alexa and Google Assistant are available at the same time on the same device.

Sonos Voice Control, Amazon Alexa1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Works with Sonos Voice Control and Amazon Alexa. Availability varies by language and country. Siri control runs on an Apple device through AirPlay and the Home app and is not built in.2Owner's manualsonos.com/en-us/guides/era300Read 15 October 2026Specifications: integrated voice control. Voice services section names Sonos Voice Control and Amazon Alexa.

Controls

Bluetooth source and pairing button, Play/pause button (double press for next track, triple press for previous track), Rotary volume control, Bass control, Treble control, Moment button for a saved playlist or speaker setting, Voice assistant microphone off slider on the rear2Owner's manualsupport.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw3fc8d3e6/pdfs/HA_JBL_Authentics_200_&_500_OM_V8_ES-MX-.pdfRead 16 October 2026Top panel: Bluetooth button, play controls (press once play or pause, twice next, three times previous), rotary volume, Moment button, treble and bass controls. Rear: voice assistant microphone slider.

Capacitive touch controls for play, pause, skip, replay, volume slider, voice assistant mute and grouping, Bluetooth pairing button, Microphone switch1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Capacitive touch controls to play, pause, skip, replay, adjust the volume, mute the voice assistant and group or ungroup Sonos products. A Bluetooth button and a microphone switch are on the back.

Companion app

JBL One1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026

Sonos8Maker product pagesupport.sonos.com/en/article/sonos-app-requirementsRead 15 October 2026The Sonos app sets up and controls Era 300.

App platforms

iOS, Android2Owner's manualsupport.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw3fc8d3e6/pdfs/HA_JBL_Authentics_200_&_500_OM_V8_ES-MX-.pdfRead 16 October 2026Android or iOS device with the JBL One app.3Maker product pageapps.apple.com/us/app/jbl-one/id1610239857Read 16 October 2026App Store listing requires iOS 16 or later.

iOS, Android8Maker product pagesupport.sonos.com/en/article/sonos-app-requirementsRead 15 October 2026An iOS or Android device is required to set up a new Sonos system or add products. The app also supports Fire OS.

User firmware updates

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026With a Wi-Fi connection the speaker receives software and feature updates automatically.2Owner's manualsupport.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw3fc8d3e6/pdfs/HA_JBL_Authentics_200_&_500_OM_V8_ES-MX-.pdfRead 16 October 2026Section 8.2: when connected to the internet the speaker software updates automatically to the latest version.

Yes7Maker product pagesupport.sonos.com/en-us/article/release-notes-sonos-system-updatesRead 15 October 2026System update release notes list Era 300 firmware versions. Updates install through the Sonos app and system, not by the user from a file.

Built-in lightingiDecorative or ambient lighting. Status, battery, connection and microphone indicator LEDs alone do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Lighting modes

Not available

Not available

Smart home

None of 3 known

Matter controlleriCan add and control Matter devices. Being a Matter device alone does not count.

Not available

Not available

Thread border routeriConnects Thread smart home devices to the home network.

Not available

Not available

Zigbee hubiA built-in Zigbee radio that controls Zigbee smart home devices.

Not available

Not available

Battery and charging

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Built-in battery

No2Owner's manualsupport.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw3fc8d3e6/pdfs/HA_JBL_Authentics_200_&_500_OM_V8_ES-MX-.pdfRead 16 October 2026Power source is 100-240 V AC mains only, with no battery in the specifications or the box.6Reviewtrustedreviews.com/reviews/jbl-authentics-500Read 16 October 2026Review says there is no integrated battery and no option to add one.

No1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Power source: nearby electrical outlet. The speaker has no battery.2Owner's manualsonos.com/en-us/guides/era300Read 15 October 2026Specifications list an auto-switching 100-240VAC universal input and no battery.

Playback time (claimed)iMaximum maker-claimed music playback on one charge in normal playback mode. Battery extension or reduced-bass boost modes belong in battery_life_boost_h. Record volume and lighting conditions in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Playback with battery extension (claimed)iTotal claimed runtime with the named battery extension mode enabled. Store the total, not only the extra hours. Keep sound and lighting restrictions in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Battery energyiPublished battery pack energy. Do not calculate from an assumed voltage.

Not available

Not available

Battery capacityiPublished pack capacity at the voltage in battery_voltage_v. Do not substitute power-bank output capacity. A figure written per cell, such as 5000mAh*2, is not a pack capacity unless the maker states the pack figure.

Not available

Not available

Nominal battery voltage

Not available

Not available

Battery chemistry

Not available

Not available

User-replaceable batteryiBattery that the maker documents as replaceable by the user. Service replacement does not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Full charge timeiTime from discharged to full under the maker conditions. Adapter rating and simultaneous use belong in source notes.

Not available

Not available

Quick charge duration

Not available

Not available

Playback after quick chargeiClaimed music playback after quick_charge_min of charging. Source conditions apply.

Not available

Not available

Charging input ratingiPublished speaker input voltage and current. An adapter rating alone does not establish device input.

Not available

Not available

Max charging inputiPublished maximum charging input. USB audio power requirements and adapter output are separate.

Not available

Not available

USB Power Delivery charging

Not available

Not available

Charges other devices

Not available

Not available

Max power-bank outputiPublished power delivered by the speaker to another device. Output voltage and current belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Wireless chargingiThe speaker battery can be charged wirelessly. Wireless power output to another device is separate.

Not available

Not available

Durability

None of 5 known

Dust and water ratingiExact published IP rating. Keep separate ratings, such as IP68 and IP69, as separate entries.

Not available

Not available

Floats

Not available

Not available

Drop resistanceiExplicit maker claim or defined drop test. Do not infer from rugged wording.

Not available

Not available

Drop test heightiMaker-published tested height. Surface and conditions belong in source notes.

Not available

Not available

Carry featuresiPublished handles, straps, carabiners or wheels.

Not available

Not available

Measured

None of 6 known

Playback time (measured)iReviewer-measured playback per charge. Volume, lighting, sound mode, firmware and connection belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Max sound pressure (measured)iReviewer-measured maximum SPL. Distance, test method and power source belong in source notes.

Not available

Not available

Low-frequency extension (measured)iReviewer-measured low-frequency limit. Threshold and test method belong in source notes.

Not available

Not available

High-frequency extension (measured)iReviewer-measured high-frequency limit. Threshold and test method belong in source notes.

Not available

Not available

Audio latency (measured)iReviewer-measured source-to-speaker latency. Source device, app, codec, firmware and connection belong in source notes. App compensation may affect results.

Not available

Not available

Full charge time (measured)iReviewer-measured time from empty to full. Power adapter and method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Dimensions and weight

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DimensionsiSpeaker body width, height and depth on explicitly identified axes. Unlabeled tuples do not establish axis meanings. Handle, strap and orientation conditions belong in the source note.

Width447Height240Depth255.7mm(17.6 × 9.4 × 10.1 in)1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026447 x 240 x 255.7 mm, listed as width x height x depth. Package is 515 x 322 x 315 mm.

Width260Height185Depth160mm(10.2 × 7.3 × 6.3 in)1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Store page labels height 7.28 in (185 mm), width 10.24 in (260 mm) and depth 6.30 in (160 mm). The launch factsheet and the user guide list 160 x 260 x 185 mm as H x W x D, which swaps height and depth. The store labels match the hourglass shape lying wide, and What Hi-Fi gives 16 x 26 x 18.5 cm as height, width and depth with the same swap.2Owner's manualsonos.com/en-us/guides/era300Read 15 October 2026Specifications list 6.3 x 10.24 x 7.28 in (160 x 260 x 185 mm) as H x W x D. Axes follow the store page labels instead.

WeightiSpeaker mass including its battery. Excludes packaging, charger and removable carry accessories unless the source states otherwise.

7,800g(17.2 lb)1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 20267.8 kg for the speaker. 11.4 kg is the packed weight.

4,470g(9.9 lb)1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Page states 9.85 lbs (4.47 kg), stored as 4470 g. The user guide states 9.75 lb / 4.42 kg, which conflicts. The launch factsheet and What Hi-Fi give 4.47 kg.2Owner's manualsonos.com/en-us/guides/era300Read 15 October 2026Specifications state 9.75 lb / 4.42 kg. Not stored. It conflicts with the store page and the factsheet.

Body materials

Aluminum frame, Synthetic leather-wrapped enclosure, Quadrex grille1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026Premium aluminum frame, custom synthetic leather-wrapped enclosure and reimagined Quadrex grille. The maker says it is made with 100% recycled fabric, 85% recycled plastic and 50% recycled aluminum.13Press releaseharman.com/india/pages/JBL-Introduces-Authentics-Series-of-In-Home-Audio-Speakers;-Blends-Timeless-Retro-Style-with-Premium-Sound.aspxRead 16 October 2026Premium aluminium frame, custom synthetic leather-wrapped enclosure and reimagined Quadrex grille. 100% recycled fabric, 85% recycled plastic and 50% recycled aluminum.

Post-consumer recycled plastic1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Era 300 features 40% recycled plastic. The launch release says post consumer recycled plastic.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)assets.sonos.com/media-kits/hardware/era-300/era300factsheet.pdfRead 15 October 2026Era 300 is made with post consumer recycled (PCR) plastic and packaged in 100% sustainably sourced paper.

Certifications

1 of 1 differ

FCC IDs

Not available

Not available

Other certifications

Wi-Fi CERTIFIED 6, Roon Ready, FSC-certified paper packaging1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026Shipped in an FSC-certified carton printed with soy ink.

CE (EU declaration), RoHS5Regulatory filingsonos.com/pdfs/conformity/era-300-it.pdfRead 15 October 2026The declaration lists conformity with the Radio Equipment Directive 2014/53/EU and with RoHS II, and the CE marking follows.

In the box

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In the box

JBL Authentics 500 speaker, Power cord (quantity and plug type vary by region), Quick start guide, Safety sheet, Warranty card1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026Box contents table: 1 speaker, 1 power cord, 1 quick start guide, 1 safety sheet, 1 warranty card.

Sonos Era 300, Power cable (2 m), Quickstart guide1Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Box contents: Sonos Era 300, power cable 6 ft (2 m), set up guide and legal and warranty information.2Owner's manualsonos.com/en-us/guides/era300Read 15 October 2026Package contents: Sonos Era 300, 6 ft (2 m) power cable, quickstart guide.

Links

Not compared

Product page

product.jbl.com/AUTHENTICS-500.html2Owner's manualsupport.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw3fc8d3e6/pdfs/HA_JBL_Authentics_200_&_500_OM_V8_ES-MX-.pdfRead 16 October 2026Product page URL printed in the manual's troubleshooting section for the Authentics 500.

www.sonos.com/en-us/shop/era-3001Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/shop/era-300Read 15 October 2026Maker's US store page. The current US price is $499, which is not the launch price.

Spec sheet

support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdf1Maker spec sheet (PDF)support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwa02cae3f/pdfs/JBL%20Authentics%20500_Specsheet_FR.pdfRead 16 October 2026

Not available

Manual

support.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw3fc8d3e6/pdfs/HA_JBL_Authentics_200_&_500_OM_V8_ES-MX-.pdf2Owner's manualsupport.harmanaudio.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dw3fc8d3e6/pdfs/HA_JBL_Authentics_200_&_500_OM_V8_ES-MX-.pdfRead 16 October 2026Mexican Spanish edition of the combined Authentics 200 and 500 owner's manual. No English edition was found on a host that could be read.

www.sonos.com/en-us/guides/era3002Owner's manualsonos.com/en-us/guides/era300Read 15 October 2026Sonos user guide, Era 300 specifications.

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Warranty

1 of 1 differ

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

Not available

1year9Maker product pagesonos.com/en-us/legal/termsRead 15 October 2026One year full warranty on all Sonos products from the date of the original retail purchase. US terms.

Both are also in the API. Back to all wireless speakers.