In June, Apple revealed the latest version of the Beats Pill, a compact Bluetooth speaker within the Beats family. According to my colleague Chance Miller from DMN, the new Beats Pill is “better than ever” — and I completely agree. With every use, I find the new Beats Pill to be a more appealing option compared to the HomePod mini.
Why Beats Pill outshines HomePod mini
The first Beats Pill was launched in 2012, even before Apple’s acquisition of Beats. After being discontinued in 2022, a new model has finally emerged. This latest model boasts a revamped design and substantial enhancements like increased battery life and the addition of a USB-C port.
I currently own two Beats Pill speakers, and I must say, this iteration is among my top picks for 2024. While there’s a comprehensive review of the Beats Pill available on DMN, which is definitely worth checking out, I’ll concentrate on how these portable speakers stack up against Apple’s HomePod mini. Many folks are curious about which one would be the better purchase.
Firstly, it’s essential to note that the HomePod mini and Beats Pill cater to different needs. As its name implies, the HomePod mini is intended for home use. It functions solely when connected to power and requires a Wi-Fi network. Conversely, the Beats Pill is a portable option, which greatly enhances its adaptability for various settings and uses.
Despite their differences, I firmly believe the Beats Pill has numerous advantages over the HomePod mini, particularly in terms of sound quality. The Beats Pill delivers richer bass, while the HomePod mini struggles with bass response, making a noticeable impact on the music listening experience. Moreover, the Beats Pill can produce significantly louder sound than its smaller counterpart.
Comparing both models side-by-side, the Beats Pill offers a notably more immersive sound experience. Additionally, dual Beats Pill speakers can be paired for stereo sound or used for multi-room audio setup. If your primary goal is music listening, it’s clear: the Beats Pill is the superior option.
I particularly appreciate the portable battery of the Beats Pill, making it effortless to take anywhere I go. Whether I’m in my office, the bathroom, or partying elsewhere, its battery life stands out, lasting up to 24 hours of playtime. I can enjoy my Beats Pill for an entire week without worrying about a charge.
Another significant benefit is its Bluetooth capability. The Beats Pill can effortlessly connect to any compatible device, while the HomePod mini is limited to Apple devices via AirPlay. Plus, you can even stream Lossless audio directly via USB-C, and it can function as a power bank for your iPhone.
Who should consider the HomePod mini?
Nonetheless, there are aspects where the HomePod mini excels. For instance, you can configure a pair of HomePod minis to serve as the speakers for your Apple TV, connecting through the eARC connection easily. Although the Beats Pill can also be paired with Apple TV, it requires re-pairing each time similarly to Bluetooth headphones, making it less seamless.
If you aspire to incorporate smart home integration through HomeKit, the HomePod mini would be a more suitable option. The HomePods also include always-on microphones for Siri, whereas the Beats Pill does not. Additionally, connecting two HomePod minis for stereo sound is more straightforward since they remain connected via Wi-Fi.
Special Black Friday Price for Beats Pill
The HomePod mini typically retails at $99, while the Beats Pill is priced at $149. However, during the Black Friday 2024 sales, you can snag the Beats Pill for the same $99 charged for the HomePod mini, making it an unbeatable offer.
What do you think? Which one would you choose? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
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