Apple · Smart Speaker
Apple HomePod mini
~C$129
The Apple HomePod mini packs impressive sound into a tiny sphere, with computational audio that analyses and optimizes the music in real time. It serves as a HomeKit and Matter home hub, controlling smart home devices and enabling automations even when your iPhone isn't home. Intercom lets you send voice messages to other HomePods and Apple devices throughout the house. Handoff transfers audio from your iPhone by holding it near the speaker. The most affordable way to add Siri and HomeKit control to any room.
Read on Celmin Magazine →Pros
- + Compact design
- + Thread border router
- + HomeKit hub
- + Intercom feature
- + Good sound for its size
Cons
- - Siri is limited vs Alexa
- - No Bluetooth audio input
- - Best with Apple ecosystem only
- - No line-in
Key Specs
- Dimensions
- 3.3 x 3.9 inches
- Weight
- 345g
- Driver
- Full-range driver + passive radiators
- Dimensions
- 3.3 x 3.9 inches
- Connectivity
- WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, Thread
- Voice Assistant
- Siri
Our Verdict
The best small smart speaker for Apple homes. Thread support makes it a future-proof HomeKit hub.
Best For
Apple users who want a compact HomeKit hub and speaker
How It Compares
| Spec | Apple HomePod mini | Amazon Echo Pop | Google Nest Hub Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | ~C$129 | ~C$39 | ~C$315 |
| Driver | Full-range driver + passive radiators | — | — |
| Dimensions | 3.3 x 3.9 inches | — | — |
| Connectivity | WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, Thread | WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.2 | — |
| Voice Assistant | Siri | Alexa | — |
| Speaker | — | 1.95-inch front-firing | Stereo 18W |
| Smart Home | — | Matter, eero built-in | WiFi, Thread, Matter |
| Camera | — | — | 6.5MP Nest Cam |
| Display | — | — | 10 inch HD |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can it control non-HomeKit devices?
Only through HomeKit-compatible bridges like Hue Bridge or Aqara Hub. It cannot directly control Alexa or Google devices.
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