HomePod or HomePod mini – or neither? That’s what this buyer’s guide aims to answer. But in a break from the usual format, let’s first spend some time exploring what Apple’s speakers have in common.
You need an iPhone or iPad: You probably have one of these. If not, don’t get either HomePod, because you need an Apple mobile device to set one up. And, no, a Mac won’t do.
And probably also Apple Music: Both HomePods work with other streaming services, but are happiest when you’re ensconced in the Apple ecosystem.
HomePods favor AirPlay: When you want to stream audio across the room to your HomePod, you’ll use AirPlay, not Bluetooth. This makes things more seamless regarding pairing, but limits communication with non-Apple devices. Also, you can’t use wired connections, because there are no physical inputs.
HomePods have fun features: You can use Intercom to speak to other HomePods on your network. And HandOff lets you transfer what’s playing on your phone to a HomePod just by tapping your device on the speaker.
Siri is… not great: Siri is poor compared to, say, Amazon’s Alexa for responding to questions. It’s better at music discovery – ask “Play something I’ll like.” – and setting alarms. And Siri’s a mixed bag for using your voice to have it play specific songs.
HomePod mini
$99/£99 • 97.9mm/3.9in x 84.3mm/3.3in • 345g/0.76 pounds / Last updated: October 2021
Best for: an affordable wireless speaker with big sound
Despite its diminutive size, the HomePod mini offers surprisingly loud, room-filling sound that retains clarity even when you crank up the volume. Output is balanced, if a touch lacking in bass. Although you’d better like how it sounds, because beyond a Reduce Bass switch you’ll never need, Apple provides no fine-tuning controls.
Setting things up is a breeze, but be mindful that the cord cannot be unplugged, which may limit placement options. Still, when you have found a spot, the HomePod mini looks great – especially the vibrant orange one, its finish being far more fun than anything else from Apple. And in use, the touch controls are responsive, as is Siri – even when you shout a command from across the room when music’s already playing.
Beyond that, it’s simple to pair two HomePod minis for a stereo output, which may suit small apartments or home offices with an Apple TV or a Mac. However, the HomePod mini really shines as a solo unit in smaller spaces. Its affordability allows for a multi-room setup that spreads the benefits throughout your home, including Home hub use – Apple unlocked the temperature and humidity sensors in 2023.
Pros: affordable; surprisingly big sound; fun
Cons: can’t unplug the cord; Siri
HomePod
$299/£299 • 142mm/5.6in x 168mm/6.6in • 2.3kg/5.16 pounds / Last updated: January 2023
Best for: anyone who wants a much bigger HomePod mini
The original HomePod arrived in 2018 and vanished in 2021. This resurrected unit appeared in 2023. The updates were relatively minor, raising the question: is it worth the hefty outlay compared to a HomePod mini?
The answer is maybe. The speaker has much larger presence than the HomePod mini, making it more suited to larger spaces. It supports Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos, providing an added dimension to output. And as a stereo pair, it could be a good bet for anyone wanting a complete Apple ecosystem experience with their Apple TV 4K.
However, during review certain aspects of sound output were less convincing. The speaker’s mix of tech and software is supposed to automatically adjust for the HomePod’s current surroundings. But it can feel bass-heavy when close to a wall. Like the HomePod mini, there is that Reduce Bass setting, but that sacrifices audio depth. And for $299/£299, Apple really should provide more granular controls – a graphic equalizer – as an option.
That’s not to say this isn’t a good speaker – it is. Just approach it with a little more caution than the HomePod mini, due to those positioning issues and the higher cost. And if Apple ecosystem integration isn’t a priority, shop around, because better and cheaper options exist for a TV setup.
Pros: capable of quality sound that fills large spaces
Cons: bass-heavy; expensive; Siri
TL;DR
Still undecided? Here’s a lightning-fast comparison for what to buy:
- Get the HomePod mini if you want a relatively inexpensive wireless speaker that should work seamlessly with your existing Apple kit.
- Buy the HomePod if you need a bigger sound – and can afford it plenty of space.