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 and matter / thread. Overall, the HomePod (1st 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.
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 Nest Audio if you care most about output and matter / thread. Its strongest claims are output, matter / thread.
Both ship with comparable dolby atmos, 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 (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 |
Frequently asked
Spec-level deep dives
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