Between the HomePod (1st gen) and Authentics 300, the HomePod (1st gen) comes out ahead in several specs, while the Authentics 300 wins on output. Overall, the HomePod (1st gen) scores 47.8 and the Authentics 300 scores 55.1 on our Mars Score.
Which should you buy?
The Authentics 300 edges ahead on the Mars Score (47.8 vs 55.1), but the 7.3-point gap is small enough that the right pick comes down to which spec advantages matter to you.
The HomePod (1st gen) doesn't pull ahead on any single popular-comparison spec — its strengths sit in the spec table groups rather than the headline advantages.
Pick the Authentics 300 if you care most about output. Its strongest claims are output.
Both ship with comparable dolby atmos, matter / thread, so those specs don't separate the two — focus on the differences below.
Bottom line: the Authentics 300 is the safer default. The other model is the right choice only when its specific advantages line up with your priorities.
Why Apple - HomePod (1st gen) wins
- No decisive advantages.
Why JBL - Authentics 300 wins
- ▲Output — 66.67% more. 100 W vs 60 W.
Spec comparison
Audio
| Spec | Apple - HomePod (1st gen) | JBL - Authentics 300 |
|---|---|---|
| Output | 60 W | 100 Wlead |
| Stereo pairing | true | true |
| Dolby Atmosⓘ | false | false |
Assistant & Smart Home
| Spec | Apple - HomePod (1st gen) | JBL - Authentics 300 |
|---|---|---|
| Voice assistant | Siri | Alexa,Google Assistant |
| Matter / Thread | false | false |
| Zigbee hub | false | false |
Spec-level deep dives
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