Between the HomePod (1st gen) and Five, the HomePod (1st gen) comes out ahead in output, while the Five wins on several specs. Overall, the HomePod (1st gen) scores 47.8 and the Five scores 35 on our Mars Score.
Which should you buy?
The HomePod (1st gen) is the clear pick on raw spec strength, leading by 12.8 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 (1st gen) if you care most about output. The biggest gaps in its favor are output.
The Five similarly doesn't carry a headline advantage on the popular specs — look at the full table for category-specific deltas.
Both ship with comparable dolby atmos, matter / thread, so those specs don't separate the two — focus on the differences below.
Bottom line: the HomePod (1st 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 (1st gen) wins
- ▲Output: 60 W vs 0 W.
Why Sonos - Five wins
- No decisive advantages.
Spec comparison
Audio
| Spec | Apple - HomePod (1st gen) | Sonos - Five |
|---|---|---|
| Output | 60 Wlead | 0 W |
| Stereo pairing | true | true |
| Dolby Atmosⓘ | false | false |
Assistant & Smart Home
| Spec | Apple - HomePod (1st gen) | Sonos - Five |
|---|---|---|
| Voice assistant | Siri | Alexa |
| Matter / Thread | false | false |
| Zigbee hub | false | false |
Spec-level deep dives
More from the same brands
vsMars is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.