Quick notes
- The bookshelf speaker can be placed on a shelf or mounted on a wall, while the table lamp speaker can be used as a traditional lamp or a speaker.
- However, the Symfonisk does not have a built-in voice assistant, so you’ll need to use your phone or a Sonos speaker with a built-in voice assistant to control it.
- The IKEA Symfonisk is more affordable, has a versatile design, and integrates with Sonos’ multi-room audio system, making it a great option for those on a budget or those who want a whole-home audio system.
In the realm of smart speakers, two names stand out: Apple’s HomePod and IKEA’s Symfonisk. Both devices offer a range of features and capabilities, but they also have their unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll put the HomePod and Symfonisk head-to-head to help you decide which smart speaker is the best fit for your needs.
Sound Quality: The Heart of the Matter
When it comes to smart speakers, sound quality is paramount. The HomePod and Symfonisk both deliver impressive audio performance, but they have distinct characteristics.
HomePod: Rich and Immersive
The HomePod boasts a powerful sound system that produces rich, room-filling audio. Its seven-tweeter array and four-inch woofer work in harmony to deliver crystal-clear highs, well-defined mids, and deep, impactful bass. The HomePod’s sound is well-balanced and detailed, making it ideal for music lovers who appreciate high-fidelity audio.
IKEA Symfonisk: Natural and Balanced
The IKEA Symfonisk takes a different approach to sound quality. Its two full-range drivers and one tweeter create a natural and balanced soundscape. The Symfonisk’s sound is warm and inviting, with a focus on clarity and accuracy. It’s perfect for casual listening and background music, but it may not be as immersive as the HomePod for serious music enthusiasts.
Design: A Matter of Taste
The HomePod and Symfonisk have distinct designs that reflect their respective brands‘ aesthetics.
HomePod: Sleek and Sophisticated
The HomePod’s design is sleek and minimalist, with a seamless mesh fabric exterior and a compact footprint. It’s available in two colors: white and space gray. The HomePod’s design blends seamlessly into any modern décor, making it a stylish addition to any room.
IKEA Symfonisk: Functional and Versatile
The IKEA Symfonisk has a more utilitarian design, with a focus on functionality and versatility. It’s available in two forms: a bookshelf speaker and a table lamp speaker. The bookshelf speaker can be placed on a shelf or mounted on a wall, while the table lamp speaker can be used as a traditional lamp or a speaker. The Symfonisk’s design is simple and understated, making it suitable for a wide range of home décor styles.
Features and Functionality: Beyond the Basics
Both the HomePod and Symfonisk offer a range of features and functionalities that extend beyond basic music playback.
HomePod: Siri, HomeKit, and AirPlay 2
The HomePod is deeply integrated with Apple’s ecosystem. It supports Siri, Apple’s voice assistant, which allows you to control your music, smart home devices, and more. The HomePod also works with HomeKit, Apple’s smart home platform, allowing you to control your smart home devices using voice commands. Additionally, the HomePod supports AirPlay 2, which allows you to stream audio from your Apple devices to the speaker.
IKEA Symfonisk: Sonos Integration and Multi-Room Audio
The IKEA Symfonisk integrates seamlessly with Sonos’ multi-room audio system. This means you can connect the Symfonisk to other Sonos speakers to create a whole-home audio system. The Symfonisk also supports AirPlay 2, allowing you to stream audio from your Apple devices. However, the Symfonisk does not have a built-in voice assistant, so you’ll need to use your phone or a Sonos speaker with a built-in voice assistant to control it.
Price and Availability: A Question of Budget
The HomePod and Symfonisk have different price points, making them suitable for different budgets.
HomePod: A Premium Experience
The HomePod is the more expensive of the two speakers, with a retail price of $299. It’s available from Apple’s online store and select retailers.
IKEA Symfonisk: Affordable and Accessible
The IKEA Symfonisk is more affordable, with the bookshelf speaker priced at $99 and the table lamp speaker priced at $179. Both speakers are available at IKEA stores and online.
Which Smart Speaker is Right for You?
The HomePod and IKEA Symfonisk are both excellent smart speakers with their unique strengths and weaknesses. The HomePod offers superior sound quality, Siri integration, and HomeKit support, making it the ideal choice for Apple users and those who prioritize audio performance. The IKEA Symfonisk is more affordable, has a versatile design, and integrates with Sonos’ multi-room audio system, making it a great option for those on a budget or those who want a whole-home audio system.
Alternatives to the HomePod and Symfonisk
If you’re looking for alternatives to the HomePod and Symfonisk, here are a few options to consider:
- Google Nest Audio: The Google Nest Audio is a compact and affordable smart speaker with excellent sound quality and Google Assistant integration.
- Amazon Echo Studio: The Amazon Echo Studio is a powerful smart speaker with immersive sound and Alexa support.
- Sonos One: The Sonos One is a versatile smart speaker that offers excellent sound quality, multi-room audio support, and both Alexa and Google Assistant integration.
What People Want to Know
Q: Which smart speaker has better sound quality, the HomePod or the Symfonisk?
A: The HomePod generally has better sound quality than the Symfonisk, with a more powerful sound system and a wider frequency range.
Q: Can I use the HomePod and Symfonisk together in a multi-room audio system?
A: Yes, you can use the HomePod and Symfonisk together in a multi-room audio system if you have an Apple TV 4K or HomePod mini.
Q: Which smart speaker is more affordable, the HomePod or the Symfonisk?
A: The IKEA Symfonisk is more affordable than the HomePod, with the bookshelf speaker priced at $99 and the table lamp speaker priced at $179.