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Head-to-head

Apple - HomePod (2nd gen) vs Sony - HT-A9

Last updated · How Mars Score works
HomePod (2nd gen)APPLERENDER
Probe A
Apple
HomePod (2nd gen)
47.8/ 100D
Audio48· 55%
Assistant & Smart Home· 45%
HT-A9SONYRENDER
Probe B
Sony
HT-A9
95.0/ 100S
Audio95· 55%
Assistant & Smart Home· 45%
Quick verdict

Between the HomePod (2nd gen) and HT-A9, the HomePod (2nd gen) comes out ahead in matter / thread, while the HT-A9 wins on output. Overall, the HomePod (2nd gen) scores 47.8 and the HT-A9 scores 95 on our Mars Score.

Buying advice

Which should you buy?

The HT-A9 is the clear pick on raw spec strength, leading by 47.2 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 matter / thread. The biggest gaps in its favor are matter / thread.

Pick the HT-A9 if you care most about output. Its strongest claims are output.

Both ship with comparable dolby atmos, so those specs don't separate the two — focus on the differences below.

Bottom line: the HT-A9 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

  • Has Matter / Thread.

Why Sony - HT-A9 wins

  • Output — 740.00% more. 504 W vs 60 W.
Full readout

Spec comparison

Audio

SpecApple - HomePod (2nd gen)Sony - HT-A9
Output60 W504 Wlead
Stereo pairingtruetrue
Dolby Atmostruetrue

Assistant & Smart Home

SpecApple - HomePod (2nd gen)Sony - HT-A9
Voice assistantSiriGoogle Assistant
Matter / Threadtrueleadfalse
Zigbee hubfalsefalse
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