Sonos Return Policy

If you’re thinking about buying a Sonos speaker but are worried about what happens if it’s not right for you, understanding the Sonos return policy is key. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from time limits to condition requirements, so you can shop with total confidence.

We’ll cover the standard return window, how to start a return, and what to expect with refunds. You’ll also learn about specific rules for opened products, holiday extensions, and purchases from different retailers. Let’s get started.

The official Sonos return policy gives you 45 days to return most items for a full refund. This period starts from the day your order is delivered. It applies to purchases made directly from Sonos, either online or at a Sonos retail store.

This 45-day window is quite generous compared to many other electronics companies. It gives you plenty of time to unbox your speaker, set it up, and truly test it out in your home. If you decide it doesn’t fit your needs, you can initiate a return.

What Items Are Eligible for Return?

Most new items sold by Sonos can be returned within the 45-day period. This includes:

All speakers (like the Era 100, Era 300, Arc, Beam, Move, Roam)
Soundbars and home theater setups
Subwoofers (Sub, Sub Mini)
Portable speakers and chargers
Accessories like mounts, stands, and cables

There are some important conditions, though. The product must be in like-new condition. It should also include all original parts, packaging, manuals, and accessories. We’ll go into more detail on condition requirements later.

Special Rules for Opened Products

Sonos does accept returns on products you’ve opened and used. This is a great advantage because you can actually try the system. However, the product must show no signs of damage or excessive wear.

You must repack it carefully in the original box with all foam inserts. All included items, like power cords, remote controls, and cables, need to be included. If anything is missing, your return could be rejected or a fee might be deducted from your refund.

The Holiday Return Period Extension

For purchases made during the peak holiday season, Sonos often extends its return window. Typically, items bought between November 1st and December 31st qualify for an extended return deadline, usually until January 31st of the following year.

This policy is subject to change each year, so always double-check the Sonos website for the current season’s official dates. It’s a nice benefit that allows for gift-giving without pressure.

How to Start a Return with Sonos

Returning an item to Sonos is designed to be a straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure it goes smoothly:

Log into Your Account: Go to the Sonos website and sign into the account you used to make the purchase.
Navigate to Order History: Find your recent orders and select the one containing the item you wish to return.
Initiate the Return: Click the “Return Items” button next to the eligible product. You’ll need to provide a reason for the return.
Choose Your Refund Method: Select whether you want a refund to your original payment method or store credit.
Print Your Label: Sonos will provide a prepaid return shipping label. Print this out. You’ll need to attach it to the outside of the box.
Pack the Item Securely: Place the product and all components back into the original packaging. Seal the box firmly.
Ship the Package: Drop off the box at the designated carrier (like UPS or FedEx). Keep your tracking number safe!

Once Sonos receives and inspects your return, they will process your refund. This typically takes a few business days after arrival.

Understanding Refund Timelines

After you ship your return, it’s natural to wonder when you’ll get your money back. Here’s the general timeline:

Carrier Transit: The return shipping usually takes 3-7 business days within the continental US.
Processing at Warehouse: Once received, the Sonos team inspects the returned item. This inspection can take 3-5 business days.
Refund Issuance: After approval, Sonos issues the refund to your original payment method. The time it takes for the funds to appear in your account depends on your bank or card issuer, often an additional 3-10 business days.

In total, don’t be surprised if the entire process from drop-off to seeing the refund takes up to two weeks. Store credit is usually issued faster, often within 24 hours of inspection approval.

Condition Requirements: Avoiding Restocking Fees

To get a full, 100% refund, your return must meet specific condition criteria. Sonos reserves the right to charge a restocking fee or deny a return if the product isn’t in like-new shape. Here’s what they look for:

Complete Original Packaging: The box, internal foam, plastic bags, and documentation must all be included.
No Physical Damage: The product itself must have no scratches, dents, or signs of impact.
All Accessories Present: Every single item that came in the box needs to go back in the box. This includes even small items like quick start guides, warranty cards, and specific cables.
Clean and Reset: For smart speakers, you should perform a factory reset from the Sonos app before packing it. This removes your personal data and settings.

If major components are missing or the product is damaged, Sonos may offer a partial refund or require you to accept a replacement instead. Clear communication is key if there’s an issue.

What About Purchases from Other Retailers?

This is crucial: If you bought your Sonos product from a store like Best Buy, Costco, Amazon, or Target, you cannot return it directly to Sonos. You must follow the return policy of the retailer where you made the purchase.

Retailer policies vary widely. For example:

Costco: Offers an extremely generous, virtually unlimited return window on electronics.
Best Buy: Typically has a 15-day return window for most electronics, with some exceptions for Elite/Elite Plus members.
Amazon: Usually provides a 30-day return window for items shipped and sold by Amazon.

Always check the specific retailer’s policy before buying. Their rules for opened items, restocking fees, and refund methods will be different from Sonos’ own policy.

Returning a Faulty or Defective Product

If your new Sonos product arrives damaged or stops working properly within the warranty period, you have different options. You don’t necessarily need to use the standard return process; you might want to pursue a warranty claim.

The Sonos warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for one year from purchase. For a defective item, you can contact Sonos Support to start a warranty claim. They will often troubleshoot with you first and then may offer a direct replacement unit if the product is confirmed to be faulty.

This process is seperate from a return for dissatisfaction. It’s designed to get you a working product if yours is broken.

International Return Considerations

The 45-day return policy is standard for direct purchases in the United States and Canada. For other countries, the return window may be shorter due to local consumer laws.

For instance, in the European Union, the standard legal minimum for distance sales is 14 days. Sonos often aligns with local regulations. Always visit your country-specific Sonos website to confirm the exact return period and procedures that apply to you. Shipping costs for international returns may also be handled differently.

Tips for a Smooth Return Experience

To make sure your return is processed quickly and without any hickups, keep these tips in mind:

Keep Everything: Do not throw away the original box, packaging, or any inserts until you are sure you’re keeping the product.
Take Photos: Before you ship it back, take clear photos of the product and all included items as proof of condition.
Use the Prepaid Label: Always use the official return label provided by Sonos. Using your own shipping method may not be covered and could delay your refund.
Track Your Shipment: Save the tracking number and monitor the package until it’s marked as delivered to the Sonos returns center.
Contact Support if Needed: If you encounter any problems initiating the return online, don’t hesitate to contact Sonos Customer Support directly for help.

Sonos Trade-Up and Upgrade Programs

Sonos sometimes offers trade-up programs, allowing you to get a discount on a new product by recycling an older, eligible Sonos device. This is not a return, but an alternative if you’re looking to upgrade.

These programs have their own terms and conditions, which are distinct from the standard return policy. Typically, you’ll need to verify your old product, recycle it through Sonos’ instructions, and then receive a coupon code for your new purchase. It’s a good option if your old speaker is outside any return window.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long is the Sonos return period?

When you buy directly from Sonos, you have 45 days from the delivery date to return an item for a refund. Holiday purchases may have an extended window.

Can I return an opened Sonos speaker?

Yes, Sonos accepts returns on opened and used products, provided they are in like-new condition with all original packaging and accessories included.

Are there any restocking fees?

Sonos does not charge a restocking fee if the returned product meets all their condition requirements. If items are missing or the product is damaged, a fee may apply or the return could be refused.

How do I return a Sonos product I bought at Best Buy?

You must follow Best Buy’s return policy, not Sonos’. Take the product back to a Best Buy store or initiate a return through your Best Buy online account. Their return window is typically shorter.

What is the return policy for Sonos refurbished products?

Refurbished products sold directly by Sonos also have a 45-day return window. They come with the same return guarentee as new products, but they are packaged in simpler, plain boxes.

How long does a Sonos refund take?

After Sonos receives and inspects your return, it takes about 3-5 business days to process the refund. The time for the money to appear back on your card depends on your bank, often taking an additional 3-10 business days.

Can I exchange a Sonos product for a different one?

Sonos does not offer direct exchanges. To get a different product, you would need to return the original item for a refund and then place a new order for the product you want.

Final Thoughts on the Sonos Return Policy

The Sonos return policy is designed to be customer-friendly, offering a lengthy 45-day trial period. This allows you to genuinely integrate the speaker into your daily life and see if it meets your expectations. The key to a successful return is careful handling, keeping all original items, and following the online process closely.

Remember, the policy only applies to direct purchases. For retailer purchases, you’re at the mercy of their rules. By understanding these guidelines upfront, you can make your Sonos purchase with peace of mind, knowing you have a clear path if the product isn’t the right fit for your home.