Amazon Echo Dot (5th Generation)
Bluetooth: Yes
Features: Alexa voice control, on-device touch control
Dimensions (hwd): 10 x 10 x 8.9cm
Finishes: x3 (charcoal, blue, white)
Verdict: The latest generation of the impressive Echo Dot keeps up the series' high standard thanks to its surprisingly three-dimensional sound at this affordable price, and perhaps the smartest Alexa integration yet.
For
- Impressively expansive sound
- Great Alexa integration
- Pleasing, understated aesthetic
Against
- Sound distortion at higher frequencies and volume
Apple HomePod Mini
Bluetooth: No
Features: Siri voice control, AirPlay 2, Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos
Dimensions (hwd): 8.4 x 9.8 x 9.8cm
Finishes: x5 (space grey, white, orange, yellow, blue)
Verdict: The HomePod Mini is full of surprises, and almost all of them are pleasant; it's small, sonically satisfying and, perhaps most gratifyingly of all, not even particularly expensive.
For
- Sophisticated, engaging sound
- Substantial smart skills
- Impressive music discovery
Against
- Limited third-party service support
- Lacks a full control app
