HomePod Mini vs. HomePod Mini 2 Buyer's Guide: All Differences Compared

On October 2026, Apple unveiled the second generation HomePod mini, which represents the first significant hardware upgrade in six years. The new model maintains the original spherical design but introduces several enhancements, including an S10 chip, Wi-Fi 6E connectivity, Sound Glow lighting, and compatibility with Siri AI in future software updates. Priced at $149 in the United States, the HomePod mini 2 is $20 more expensive than its predecessor, which retailed for $129 in June 2026.

Both generations share common features, such as a full-range driver, two passive radiators, acoustic waveguide for 360-degree sound, temperature and humidity sensors, Thread networking, Ultra Wideband proximity features, AirPlay multiroom audio, stereo pairing, Intercom, smart home control, and Sound Recognition. Their dimensions are identical at 3.3 inches in height and 3.9 inches in width, and both feature a 20W power adapter.

The HomePod mini (2020) and HomePod mini 2 (2026) differ primarily in their computing power and connectivity. The S5 chip, derived from the Apple Watch Series 5 from 2019, has been replaced with the S10 chip from the Apple Watch Series 10 released in 2024. The S10 chip is a more advanced version, based on Apple's A16 Bionic chip from the iPhone 14 Pro. The new model also boasts enhanced computational audio and a three-microphone design, whereas the original featured a four-microphone setup.

For most existing HomePod mini users, an upgrade to the HomePod mini 2 is not necessary immediately. The earlier model remains capable of handling voice commands, music playback, timers, Intercom, and smart home automations. The inclusion of Sound Glow and new finishes may attract some enthusiasts, but they are minor reasons to replace speakers throughout a home.

Sound quality improvements are not quantified, and Apple has not highlighted specific acoustic gains from the S10 chip. The clearest reason to upgrade to the HomePod mini 2 is to use it as a default Mac speaker if your Mac supports Wi-Fi 6E or later. It also offers four-speaker surround sound when paired with a fourth-generation Apple TV 4K.

While the new model introduces several improvements, it is not immediately necessary for most users. The original HomePod mini still offers sufficient features for voice commands, music playback, timers, Intercom, and smart home automation. However, for those interested in the new features or seeking enhanced Mac compatibility, the HomePod mini 2 presents a compelling upgrade.