Harman Kardon
Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8
Smart/Portable · $399
85
/ 100
From $399
VS
Apple
HomePod (2nd gen)
Smart/Portable · $299
85
/ 100
From $299
Specdex verdict
Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.
In our weighted Specdex score, Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 lands at 85 and HomePod (2nd gen) at 85. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.
Pick Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 if…
- ✓Easy multi-room with ecosystem
- ✓App EQ on modern models
- ✓USB-C/AUX input on some
Pick HomePod (2nd gen) if…
- ✓Easy multi-room with ecosystem
- ✓App EQ on modern models
- ✓USB-C/AUX input on some
Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 85
vs 85 HomePod (2nd gen)
Score breakdown
Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8
85 sound 85
features 83
design 88
ecosystem 84
HomePod (2nd gen)
85 sound 85
features 83
design 88
ecosystem 84
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 | HomePod (2nd gen) |
|---|
Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8
Pros
- +Easy multi-room with ecosystem
- +App EQ on modern models
- +USB-C/AUX input on some
Cons
- −Brand ecosystem lock-in
- −Subscription features on some
- −Bass limits at lower sizes
HomePod (2nd gen)
Pros
- +Easy multi-room with ecosystem
- +App EQ on modern models
- +USB-C/AUX input on some
Cons
- −Brand ecosystem lock-in
- −Subscription features on some
- −Bass limits at lower sizes
FAQ: Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 vs HomePod (2nd gen)
Which is better, Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 or HomePod (2nd gen)? +
Both score 85 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.
Is Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 worth the price? +
At $399, Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 delivers a Specdex score of 85 — strongest in design.
Is HomePod (2nd gen) worth the price? +
At $299, HomePod (2nd gen) delivers a Specdex score of 85 — strongest in design.
Does Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 or HomePod (2nd gen) last longer? +
Based on our long-term update and support ratings, both ship with multi-year support. Battery and reliability scores are visible in the breakdown above.