Between the HomePod (2nd gen) and Link Music, the HomePod (2nd gen) comes out ahead in output and dolby atmos, while the Link Music wins on several specs. Overall, the HomePod (2nd gen) scores 47.8 and the Link Music scores 39.4 on our Mars Score.
Which should you buy?
The HomePod (2nd gen) is the clear pick on raw spec strength, leading by 8.4 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.
Pick the HomePod (2nd gen) if you care most about output and dolby atmos. The biggest gaps in its favor are output, dolby atmos, matter / thread.
The Link Music similarly doesn't carry a headline advantage on the popular specs — look at the full table for category-specific deltas.
There are no meaningful ties on the headline specs — every popular-comparison metric has a winner.
Bottom line: the HomePod (2nd gen) is the safer default. The other model is the right choice only when its specific advantages line up with your priorities.
Why Apple - HomePod (2nd gen) wins
- ▲Output — 200.00% more. 60 W vs 20 W.
- ▲Has Dolby Atmos.
- ▲Has Matter / Thread.
Why JBL - Link Music wins
- No decisive advantages.
Spec comparison
Audio
| Spec | Apple - HomePod (2nd gen) | JBL - Link Music |
|---|---|---|
| Output | 60 Wlead | 20 W |
| Stereo pairing | true | true |
| Dolby Atmosⓘ | truelead | false |
Assistant & Smart Home
| Spec | Apple - HomePod (2nd gen) | JBL - Link Music |
|---|---|---|
| Voice assistant | Siri | Google Assistant |
| Matter / Thread | truelead | false |
| Zigbee hub | false | false |
Frequently asked
Spec-level deep dives
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