Where they actually differ
The most decisive specs, ranked by how much they matter — before the full spec table.
| Spec | Apple - HomePod (1st gen) | Google - Nest Audio |
|---|---|---|
| Output | 60 W | 75 W |
| Matter / Thread | false | true |
Between the HomePod (1st gen) and Nest Audio, the HomePod (1st gen) comes out ahead in several specs, while the Nest Audio wins on output / matter / thread. Overall, the HomePod (1st gen) scores 42.7 and the Nest Audio scores 71.8 on our Mars Score.
Which should you buy?
The Nest Audio is the clear pick on raw spec strength, leading by 29.1 points on the Mars Score. The margin is wide enough that the underdog only makes sense if its individual strengths line up with what you specifically need.
The HomePod (1st gen) does not pull ahead on any single popular-comparison spec — its strengths sit in the spec-table groups rather than the headline advantages.
Pick the Nest Audio if you care most about output / matter / thread. Its strongest claims are output, matter / thread. The single most decisive one: Output — 25.00% more. 75 W vs 60 W.
Both ship with comparable dolby atmos, so those specs do not separate the two — focus on the differences below.
Bottom line: the Nest Audio is the safer default. The other model is the right choice only when its specific advantages line up with your priorities.
Which should you buy: Apple - HomePod (1st gen) or Google - Nest Audio?
Google - Nest Audio leads the current Mars Score by 29.1 points.The more useful decision is the trade-off behind that result: compare output, matter / thread against the way you will actually use the product.
Choose Apple - HomePod (1st gen) if…
Apple - HomePod (1st gen) does not lead a decisive measured field here, so choose it for price, ecosystem, design, or availability when those matter more to you.
Choose Google - Nest Audio if…
Google - Nest Audio has the measurable edge on output w, has matter thread.
This is a structured comparison of the published catalog values. It is not a claim of identical real-world performance across every workload; use the linked spec drill-downs and methodology page to inspect the inputs.
Why Apple - HomePod (1st gen) wins
- No decisive advantages.
Why Google - Nest Audio wins
- ▲Output — 25.00% more. 75 W vs 60 W.
- ▲Has Matter / Thread.
Spec comparison
Audio
| Spec | Apple - HomePod (1st gen) | Google - Nest Audio |
|---|---|---|
| Output | 60 W | 75 Wlead |
| Stereo pairingⓘ | true | true |
| Dolby Atmosⓘ | false | false |
Assistant & Smart Home
| Spec | Apple - HomePod (1st gen) | Google - Nest Audio |
|---|---|---|
| Voice assistant | Siri | Google Assistant |
| Matter / Thread | false | truelead |
| Zigbee hub | false | false |