Google Home Speaker vs. HomePod Mini: Which Smart Speaker Wins?

Google has unveiled its new smart speaker, the Google Home Speaker, priced at $99, positioning it as a direct competitor to Apple’s HomePod Mini. Both devices share similar dimensions and pricing but differ in audio performance and smart capabilities. We tested both speakers for a week to determine which best suits a smart home setup.

Compared to the HomePod Mini, the Google Home Speaker features a more powerful 58mm driver and delivers 360-degree immersive sound. This allows it to fill a room even at low volumes, whereas the HomePod Mini demands higher settings for comfortable listening. However, Apple’s sound quality remains more balanced: mid and high frequencies are crisper, while bass trails behind its rival.

The Google Home Speaker’s smart features outshine the HomePod Mini thanks to its integration with Google’s AI Gemini. The speaker responds to queries faster and more accurately, manages smart home devices, and processes voice commands with ease. For example, it can notify users about package deliveries or turn on the air conditioner on command. Meanwhile, Siri on the HomePod Mini hasn’t received updates since launch and struggles with complex requests.

Another advantage of the Google Home Speaker is its stereo pairing support, enabling richer sound without extra cost. The HomePod Mini also supports stereo mode but requires purchasing two units, increasing the total expense. Ultimately, the choice between these speakers depends on user priorities: Google Home Speaker excels in volume and smart features, while HomePod Mini prioritizes audio quality.