Highlights
- In the realm of smart speakers, two prominent contenders are the HomePod mini from Apple and the Bose Revolve Plus from Bose.
- The HomePod mini is priced at $99, making it a budget-friendly option for those seeking a smart speaker with good sound quality and smart features.
- For those seeking a compact and affordable smart speaker with good sound quality and seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem, the HomePod mini is an excellent option.
In the realm of smart speakers, two prominent contenders are the HomePod mini from Apple and the Bose Revolve Plus from Bose. Both devices offer a blend of audio quality, smart features, and sleek designs. However, discerning the best choice between them can be a challenge. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of the HomePod mini and Bose Revolve Plus, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
HomePod mini: The HomePod mini boasts a compact and spherical design, measuring just 3.3 inches tall. Its seamless mesh fabric exterior exudes a modern and minimalist aesthetic, available in various colors to complement any home décor. The device’s weight of 0.76 pounds makes it easy to move around.
Bose Revolve Plus: In contrast, the Bose Revolve Plus features a cylindrical shape with a height of 6.7 inches and a diameter of 4.2 inches. Its rugged construction includes a water-resistant aluminum body and a fabric grille that protects the speaker from dust and moisture. With a weight of 2.3 pounds, it is more substantial than the HomePod mini.
Audio Quality
HomePod mini: Despite its diminutive size, the HomePod mini delivers impressive audio quality. It employs a full-range driver and dual passive radiators to produce clear and balanced sound. The speaker’s computational audio technology adjusts the music in real time, optimizing it for the room’s acoustics.
Bose Revolve Plus: The Bose Revolve Plus boasts a wider frequency range and more powerful audio performance. Its 360-degree design ensures that sound is evenly distributed, creating an immersive listening experience. The speaker also features Bose’s True360 technology, which delivers consistent sound in all directions.
Smart Features
HomePod mini: The HomePod mini seamlessly integrates with Apple’s ecosystem. It supports Siri, Apple’s voice assistant, which allows users to control music playback, set alarms, get weather updates, and more. The speaker also works with HomeKit, enabling users to control smart home devices using voice commands.
Bose Revolve Plus: The Bose Revolve Plus offers a range of smart features, including voice control through Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. Users can access music streaming services, adjust volume, and control other smart home devices using voice commands. The speaker also supports Bose’s SimpleSync technology, allowing it to be paired with other Bose speakers for a synchronized multi-room audio experience.
Connectivity
HomePod mini: The HomePod mini primarily relies on Wi-Fi for connectivity. It supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi networks, ensuring a stable connection for streaming music and accessing smart features. The speaker also features Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless pairing with other devices.
Bose Revolve Plus: The Bose Revolve Plus offers more versatile connectivity options. In addition to Wi-Fi, it supports Bluetooth 4.2 for pairing with smartphones, tablets, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices. The speaker also features a 3.5mm auxiliary input, allowing for wired connections to external audio sources.
Battery Life
HomePod mini: The HomePod mini is designed for use with a power outlet and does not have a built-in battery. This means it requires a constant power supply to operate.
Bose Revolve Plus: The Bose Revolve Plus features a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides up to 17 hours of playtime on a single charge. This makes it ideal for outdoor use or situations where a power outlet is not readily available.
Price
HomePod mini: The HomePod mini is priced at $99, making it a budget-friendly option for those seeking a smart speaker with good sound quality and smart features.
Bose Revolve Plus: The Bose Revolve Plus carries a higher price tag of $299. While it is more expensive than the HomePod mini, it offers superior audio quality, a longer battery life, and more versatile connectivity options.
Wrap-Up: HomePod mini vs Bose Revolve Plus – Making the Right Choice
The choice between the HomePod mini and Bose Revolve Plus ultimately depends on individual preferences and requirements. For those seeking a compact and affordable smart speaker with good sound quality and seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem, the HomePod mini is an excellent option. However, if superior audio performance, longer battery life, and versatile connectivity options are priorities, the Bose Revolve Plus is the better choice, despite its higher price.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Which speaker is better for small rooms?
Both the HomePod mini and Bose Revolve Plus are suitable for small rooms. However, the HomePod mini’s compact size makes it ideal for even the most space-constrained environments.
2. Which speaker offers better sound quality?
The Bose Revolve Plus delivers superior sound quality compared to the HomePod mini. Its wider frequency range and more powerful audio performance make it a better choice for those seeking a more immersive listening experience.
3. Which speaker has better smart features?
The HomePod mini and Bose Revolve Plus both offer a range of smart features, including voice control and compatibility with smart home devices. However, the HomePod mini’s deeper integration with Apple’s ecosystem and Siri may be more appealing to Apple users.
4. Which speaker is more portable?
The Bose Revolve Plus is the more portable speaker thanks to its built-in battery. Its longer battery life and water-resistant design make it ideal for outdoor use or situations where a power outlet is not readily available.
5. Which speaker is better for multi-room audio?
Both the HomePod mini and Bose Revolve Plus support multi-room audio. However, the HomePod mini’s seamless integration with Apple’s AirPlay 2 makes it easier to set up and control a multi-room audio system.