Between the HomePod (2nd gen) and Nest Audio, the HomePod (2nd gen) comes out ahead in dolby atmos, while the Nest Audio wins on output. Overall, the HomePod (2nd gen) scores 47.8 and the Nest Audio scores 50.6 on our Mars Score.
Which should you buy?
These two are nearly even on the Mars Score (47.8 vs 50.6). The decision isn't about overall quality — both clear the bar — it's about which specific trade-offs fit your use.
Pick the HomePod (2nd gen) if you care most about dolby atmos. The biggest gaps in its favor are dolby atmos.
Pick the Nest Audio if you care most about output. Its strongest claims are output.
Both ship with comparable matter / thread, so those specs don't separate the two — focus on the differences below.
Bottom line: there is no wrong answer here — match the spec advantages to how you actually use the product. The Mars Score parity tells you both are well-rounded; the differences are about trade-offs, not quality.
Why Apple - HomePod (2nd gen) wins
- ▲Has Dolby Atmos.
Why Google - Nest Audio wins
- ▲Output — 25.00% more. 75 W vs 60 W.
Spec comparison
Audio
| Spec | Apple - HomePod (2nd gen) | Google - Nest Audio |
|---|---|---|
| Output | 60 W | 75 Wlead |
| Stereo pairing | true | true |
| Dolby Atmosⓘ | truelead | false |
Assistant & Smart Home
| Spec | Apple - HomePod (2nd gen) | Google - Nest Audio |
|---|---|---|
| Voice assistant | Siri | Google Assistant |
| Matter / Thread | true | true |
| Zigbee hub | false | false |
Frequently asked
Spec-level deep dives
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