In a total surprise, Apple has released the second generation HomePod. This looks exactly like the original model from 2018, but has some adjustments. The display is larger and easier to operate, and the speaker also contains the necessary innovations internally.
We list the differences between the original HomePod, the second generation and the HomePod mini for you. This way you have a good view of all three speakers and you can see how the new generation has changed compared to the original model.
All HomePod models differ
To get a good idea of ​​the different HomePod models, we have compared all the most important options. Below you can see which models have a U1 chip, room detection, Dolby Atmos and more. This gives you a good idea of ​​the new HomePod and the existing speakers.
High quality speakers
You will mainly use the HomePod to play music, so the speakers and woofers are of course the most important. There are some interesting adjustments to report when it comes to the speakers and microphones. First, Apple hints that the woofer in the second generation HomePod is larger compared to the original model. They talk about a 4-inch high-excursion woofer, while the size of the original was not disclosed by Apple.
Other changes can be found in the tweeters. The second generation contains five horn-loaded tweeters, each with its own neodymium magnet. With the first HomePod this was still seven. The longer range microphones have also been reduced from six to four. Apple should be confident that it has the same or better sound quality as the original HomePod with fewer tweeters and microphones.
“The HomePod 2 delivers sound quality with warm, deep bass and stunning high frequencies. A specially developed wide-excursion woofer, a powerful motor that moves the diaphragm as much as 20mm, a built-in bass EQ microphone and five beamforming tweeters around the base together create a powerful acoustic experience.”according to Apple.
Speakers HomePod mini
You cannot actually compare the sound quality between the large HomePod and HomePod mini. For example, the mini does not contain a woofer and uses a full-range driver and two passive radiators for deep bass sounds and crystal-clear highs.
The sound quality of a mini is good, especially in stereo pair, but it is not as advanced as the first or second generation HomePod. In addition, the Mini does not support spatial audio with Dolby Atmos for music and video.
Colorful or neutral
The HomePod mini is available in different colors including yellow, blue and orange. The HomePod second generation is only available in midnight and white.
Stereo pair remains possible
If you create a stereo pair, the music will sound even better. You get a wider soundstage and you are surrounded by sound even more than with just one speaker.
Please note that creating a HomePod stereo pair requires two HomePod speakers of the same model, such as two HomePod mini, two HomePod (2nd generation) or two HomePod (1st generation).
Buy HomePod
The HomePod 2nd generation can be ordered now and will be delivered from February 3 for a suggested retail price of € 349. The HomePod mini has been for sale for a while with a suggested retail price of € 109.
