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Apple HomePod 2 vs Bose SoundLink Max

Detailed comparison of Apple HomePod 2 and Bose SoundLink Max. Compare specs, price, pros & cons to find which is best for you.

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Quick Verdict

The Bose SoundLink Max is our top pick with a 4.5★ rating (2,340 reviews). Standout strength: incredible bass for a portable. The Apple HomePod 2 counters with excellent sound for its size. Price difference: £50.

Full Spec Comparison

Apple

Apple HomePod 2

£299Best Pick
VS
Bose

Bose SoundLink Max

£349
Rating
★★★★4.3
★★★★4.5
Reviews
5,670
2,340
Brand
Apple
Bose
type
Smart speaker
Portable Bluetooth speaker
drivers
5 tweeters + 1 woofer
2 custom transducers + 2 passive radiators
audio
Spatial Audio, Dolby Atmos
—
connectivity
Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, Thread, UWB
Bluetooth 5.4
assistant
Siri
—
size
168 x 142mm
—
battery
—
20 hours
waterproof
—
IP67
power
—
Not disclosed
weight
—
1.46kg
Pros
Excellent sound for its sizeDeep HomeKit integrationRoom sensing adapts soundThread smart home hub
Incredible bass for a portableBose sound qualityIP67 ruggedStereo pairing support
Cons
Siri is less capable than AlexaApple ecosystem onlyNo Bluetooth audio inputExpensive
ExpensiveHeavy at 1.46kgNo smart assistantSingle USB-C port

Check Price on Amazons

AppleAI VerifiedAI Verified

Apple HomePod 2

★★★★4.3(5,670 reviews)
from£299$299
typeSmart speaker
drivers5 tweeters + 1 woofer
audioSpatial Audio, Dolby Atmos
Excellent sound for its sizeDeep HomeKit integration
Siri is less capable than Alexa
Affiliate link
Top Rated
BoseAI VerifiedAI Verified

Bose SoundLink Max

★★★★½4.5(2,340 reviews)
from£349$399
typePortable Bluetooth speaker
drivers2 custom transducers + 2 passive radiators
battery20 hours
Incredible bass for a portableBose sound quality
Expensive
Affiliate link

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better: Apple HomePod 2 or Bose SoundLink Max?

The Bose SoundLink Max edges ahead with a 4.5★ rating vs 4.3★.Incredible bass for a portable. However, the Apple HomePod 2 wins on excellent sound for its size. Your best choice depends on whether you prioritise outdoor or apple-users.

Is the Apple HomePod 2 worth it over the Bose SoundLink Max?

The Apple HomePod 2 costs £299 while the Bose SoundLink Max is £349. The Apple HomePod 2 is the better value option. Both are excellent for apple-users and smart-home.

Apple HomePod 2 vs Bose SoundLink Max — which should I buy in 2026?

Choose the Apple HomePod 2 if you prioritise excellent sound for its size. Choose the Bose SoundLink Max if you prioritise incredible bass for a portable. Both are top-rated in the speakers category.

Still not sure? Ask our AI for a personalised recommendation.

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