Buying lab

Compare consumer tech gear before you buy.

Line up review signal, value, lifecycle, chip and buyer fit across up to four products.

Best blended pick

HomePod mini

The review signal is high relative to the usual price. Prioritise deals and refurbished options. Target price: $95.

2 products selected

HomePod

Best valueS7

The review signal is high relative to the usual price. Prioritise deals and refurbished options.

Critic score82

Value signal100

Price$299

Lifecycle3y 5m old

User score8.3

Best for

music-first homesvoice assistant householdscompact smart speakers

Consensus

82/100

Lifecycle

3y 5m old

Value signal

100/100

HomePod

Best valueS5

The review signal is high relative to the usual price. Prioritise deals and refurbished options.

Critic score83

Value signal100

Price$99

Lifecycle5y 8m old

User score7