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Apple HomePod (2nd generation) vs Marshall Acton III

A

Product A: Apple

HomePod (2nd generation)

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B

Product B: Marshall

Acton III

40 of 96 known

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Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

AApple HomePod (2nd generation)

BMarshall Acton III

General

6 of 8 differ

Series

HomePod2Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generationRead 21 October 2026Apple sells it as HomePod, the larger speaker in the HomePod line.

Not available

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

A2825, MQJ73LL/A, MQJ83LL/A5Spec databaseeverymac.com/systems/apple/homepod/specs/apple-homepod-2nd-gen-smart-speaker-a2825-specs.htmlRead 21 October 2026EveryMac: Apple model A2825 (EMC 8208). Order numbers MQJ73LL/A for Midnight and MQJ83LL/A for white. The US store now lists newer SKUs.6Regulatory filingfccid.io/BCG-A2825Read 21 October 2026Product code A2825 is the Apple model number.

1006008, 1006009, 1006078, 1008131, 1008174, 1006006, 1006007, 1006077, 1008184, 1008185, 1006004, 1006005, 1006075, 1008173, 1008130, 1009086, 1009088, 10090901Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Page data lists product ids per colour and region. US store: 1006008 Black, 1006009 Cream, 1006078 Brown, 1008131 Midnight Blue, 1008174 Burgundy. UK, IE and AE: 1006006 Black, 1006007 Cream, 1006077 Brown, 1008184 Burgundy, 1008185 Midnight Blue. NL and NT: 1006004 Black, 1006005 Cream, 1006075 Brown, and 1008173 Burgundy (tagged CN, NL and NT). CN: 1009086 Black, 1009088 Brown, 1009090 Cream. 1008130 Midnight Blue has no region tag. The ids differ by colour and market, most likely by mains plug. The speaker is the same.

GTIN / EAN

Not available

7340055385060, 7340055385091, 7340055387194, 7340055408219, 73400554087381Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026EAN in the page data of each US colour page: 1006008 is 7340055385060, 1006009 is 7340055385091, 1006078 is 7340055387194, 1008131 is 7340055408219 and 1008174 is 7340055408738. EANs of the other ids were not found.

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

18 January 20233Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2023/01/apple-introduces-the-new-homepod-with-breakthrough-sound-and-intelligenceRead 21 October 2026Press release dated January 18, 2023.

9 June 20226Press articleengadget.com/marshall-home-speakers-acton-stockton-woburn-iii-lineup-wide-soundstage-hdmi-140038655.htmlRead 20 October 2026Article of 2022-06-09 reports the new Home Line III speakers. Pre-orders opened that day.

Status

Available2Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generationRead 21 October 2026Apple sells HomePod (2nd generation) with a Buy button next to the new HomePod mini 2 in October 2026.

Available1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026US store sells all five colours at USD 299.99 with an Add to Bag button on 2026-10-20. The GB and DE stores also list them as orderable.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Marshall Acton IV13Reviewtomsguide.com/audio/smart-speakers/marshall-acton-iv-reviewRead 23 October 2026Tom's Guide says the Marshall Acton IV succeeds the four-year-old Acton III.

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$2993Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2023/01/apple-introduces-the-new-homepod-with-breakthrough-sound-and-intelligenceRead 21 October 2026HomePod (2nd generation) is available to order for $299 (US). US prices exclude sales tax.

$2796Press articleengadget.com/marshall-home-speakers-acton-stockton-woburn-iii-lineup-wide-soundstage-hdmi-140038655.htmlRead 20 October 2026Article lists Acton III at USD 279. Tom's Guide and What Hi-Fi also give USD 279. US list prices exclude tax.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

€3494Press articleiphone-ticker.de/apple-stellt-neuen-homepod-vor-205641Read 21 October 2026German launch report: the new HomePod can be ordered at 349 EUR. German prices include VAT.5Spec databaseeverymac.com/systems/apple/homepod/specs/apple-homepod-2nd-gen-smart-speaker-a2825-specs.htmlRead 21 October 2026EveryMac global original prices: EUR 349 in Germany, France, Spain, Italy and others.

€2697Press articlehifi.de/news/marshall-update-bluetooth-lautsprecher-100860Read 20 October 2026German article of 2022-06-10 lists Acton III at EUR 269 and orderable at once. The German maker store shows EUR 299 including VAT now, which is a later price.

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

US, DE3Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2023/01/apple-introduces-the-new-homepod-with-breakthrough-sound-and-intelligenceRead 21 October 2026Orders in the US, Germany and other countries. The stored markets match the USD and EUR prices.4Press articleiphone-ticker.de/apple-stellt-neuen-homepod-vor-205641Read 21 October 2026German price and sale.

US, GB, DE, FR1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026US store page with USD price. The maker's GB store (GBP 259.99) and DE store (EUR 299) list the same product ids as orderable on 2026-10-20. LDLC sells it in France.10Retailer pageldlc.com/en/product/PB00503434.htmlRead 20 October 2026Sold in France.

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Midnight, White1Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generation/specsRead 21 October 2026Specs page color picker: Midnight, White.2Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generationRead 21 October 2026Available in Midnight and White.3Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2023/01/apple-introduces-the-new-homepod-with-breakthrough-sound-and-intelligenceRead 21 October 2026Available in white and midnight.

Black, Cream, Brown, Midnight Blue, Burgundy1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Colorways: Black, Cream, Brown, Midnight Blue, Burgundy.

Speaker typeiHome covers speakers made to stay in one place, including smart speakers. A speaker with Wi-Fi or a voice assistant can be of any type.

Home2Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generationRead 21 October 2026Apple sells it as a smart home speaker that runs from a power cord. It has no battery, so it is a home speaker.

Home1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Page: Bluetooth home speaker, home line-up.

Audio

9 of 18 differ

Audio channelsiSound channels reproduced by one speaker. Pairing two speakers for stereo is separate.

Mono16Reviewrtings.com/speaker/reviews/apple/homepod-2nd-generationRead 21 October 2026Review text: the speaker has to downmix stereo content into mono. The Sonos and Amazon comparison texts say the same.

Stereo1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Stereo/mono: Stereo. Sound channels of one speaker.

Audio driversiPowered audio transducers in one speaker. Passive radiators are counted separately. Circular diameter and rectangular width and height have separate columns. Per-driver power must state continuous or RMS basis and battery or mains operation in the source note.

AApple HomePod (2nd generation)

Driver type	Count	Diameter (mm)
High-excursion woofer	1	101.6
Horn-loaded tweeter	5	Not available

Source1Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generation/specsRead 21 October 2026Audio Technology: 4-inch high-excursion woofer and an array of five horn-loaded tweeters, each with its own neodymium magnet. The woofer diameter is the exact metric conversion of 4 inches. Driver power is not published.2Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generationRead 21 October 2026Overview: a high-excursion woofer whose motor drives the diaphragm 20 mm, and an array of five beamforming tweeters around the base.3Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2023/01/apple-introduces-the-new-homepod-with-breakthrough-sound-and-intelligenceRead 21 October 2026A custom-engineered high-excursion woofer, a built-in bass-EQ mic and a beamforming array of five tweeters around the base.

BMarshall Acton III

Driver type	Count	Diameter (mm)
Woofer	1	101.6
Tweeter	2	19.05

Source9Reviewbeat.com.au/review-marshall-acton-iii-wireless-bluetooth-speakerRead 20 October 2026Review: two-way design with a 4-inch woofer and two 3/4-inch tweeters. Converted exactly to 101.6 mm and 19.05 mm. The maker page lists amplifier ratings only, one for the woofer and two for the tweeters, so the counts agree. No per-driver power is stored. The maker lists a bass-reflex cabinet, so no passive radiator is stored.10Retailer pageldlc.com/en/product/PB00503434.htmlRead 20 October 2026Retailer: 2 angled tweeters and 1 woofer.

Passive radiatorsiPassive, unpowered bass radiators. Excludes powered drivers.

Not available

Not available

Rated audio poweriMaker-published total rated continuous audio output. Battery power is used for portable speakers when mains and battery ratings differ. Peak marketing power is separate.

Not available

Not available

Rated audio power on mainsiTotal rated continuous audio output with external power. Store a separate battery rating when the maker publishes both.

Not available

Not available

Audio output power (unspecified rating)iMaker- or reviewer-published audio output power whose continuous or peak rating basis is not stated. This is separate from rated continuous output and explicitly published peak output.

Not available

60W9Reviewbeat.com.au/review-marshall-acton-iii-wireless-bluetooth-speakerRead 20 October 2026Review: 60 W. This equals the maker's amplifier ratings of 30 W for the woofer plus 2 x 15 W for the tweeters. No continuous, RMS or peak basis is stated by the maker. LDLC calls it 60 W RMS, a retailer wording that is not used.10Retailer pageldlc.com/en/product/PB00503434.htmlRead 20 October 2026Retailer: 60 W total, class D amplification 2 x 15 W for the tweeters and 30 W for the woofer.

Peak audio poweriExplicitly published peak audio output. Never substitute for rated continuous output.

Not available

Not available

Frequency response lower limit (claimed)iPublished acoustic frequency response limit. Tolerance and operating mode belong in the source note. The Bluetooth transmission range that some spec tables and retailers label Frequency Response, such as A2DP 20 to 20,000 Hz, is not stored.

Not available

45Hz1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Frequency range 45-20,000 Hz. Tolerance and mode are not stated.

Frequency response upper limit (claimed)iPublished acoustic frequency response limit. Tolerance and operating mode belong in the source note. The Bluetooth transmission range that some spec tables and retailers label Frequency Response, such as A2DP 20 to 20,000 Hz, is not stored.

Not available

20kHz1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Frequency range 45-20,000 Hz. Tolerance and mode are not stated.

Signal-to-noise ratio (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Adjustable equalizeriUser-adjustable frequency bands. Selecting fixed sound presets alone does not qualify.

No16Reviewrtings.com/speaker/reviews/apple/homepod-2nd-generationRead 21 October 2026Review pros and cons: no sound customization tools. RTINGS says the sound cannot be customized easily.

Yes1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Page: Adjustable bass and treble controls, and customise sound: yes, on speaker and in app. The maker FAQ says the EQ can be adjusted using the top controls on the speaker. Two tone knobs, no multiband EQ is documented.9Reviewbeat.com.au/review-marshall-acton-iii-wireless-bluetooth-speakerRead 20 October 2026Review: physical treble and bass knobs on the top panel give on-unit tone control, separate from the app.

Equalizer bandsiNumber of user-adjustable frequency bands. Do not count sound presets.

Not available

21Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Two user-adjustable bands, the bass control knob and the treble control knob. Dynamic Loudness is automatic and is not counted.

Automatic sound adjustmentiAdjusts audio to placement or playback conditions. Keep the named feature and conditions in the source note.

Yes1Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generation/specsRead 21 October 2026Audio Technology: room sensing and advanced computational audio with system sensing for real-time tuning. An internal low-frequency calibration microphone corrects bass automatically.2Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generationRead 21 October 2026Overview: with room sensing HomePod listens for sound reflections through its microphones and tunes sound for its location.3Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2023/01/apple-introduces-the-new-homepod-with-breakthrough-sound-and-intelligenceRead 21 October 2026Room sensing recognizes sound reflections from nearby surfaces to tell if the speaker is against a wall or freestanding, then adapts sound in real time.

Yes1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Built-in Dynamic Loudness adjusts the tonal balance as the volume changes, so it is automatic. The FAQ also names Placement Correction in the Marshall app, which the user sets. Digit reports it is a questionnaire in the app and not automatic. Only Dynamic Loudness is automatic.

Sound modesiNamed playback modes. Battery extension modes are also qualified in battery source notes.

Not available

Not available

Wireless stereo pairingiTwo compatible speakers can play separate left and right channels.

Yes1Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generation/specsRead 21 October 2026Audio Technology: stereo pair capable. Footnote: a pair needs two of the same model.

No1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026FAQ: this speaker is a stand-alone and cannot be used in pairs or multiple groups.2Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/support/speakers/support-for-acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026FAQ: this speaker is a stand-alone and cannot be used in pairs or multiple groups.11Reviewdigit.in/reviews/marshall-acton-iii-review-the-definition-of-luxury-listening-experience.htmlRead 20 October 2026Review: the speaker lacks daisy-chaining for a wireless stereo setup.12Spec databasesoundguys.com/product/marshall-acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Spec table: stereo pairing No and multi speaker chain No.

Speaker link protocolsiNamed systems for linking compatible speakers, such as PartyBoost, Auracast or Party Connect. Linking support does not establish compatibility across all models.

AirPlay multiroom audio1Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generation/specsRead 21 October 2026Audio Technology: multiroom audio with AirPlay. Footnote: needs multiple HomePod speakers or AirPlay-compatible speakers. No maximum group size is published.

Not available

Max linked speakersiPublished maximum in a speaker group. A stereo pair is recorded separately. A figure such as 100+ is stored as 100.

Not available

Not available

Max Bluetooth group speakersiPublished maximum speakers in one Bluetooth playback group, including the first speaker. Source notes name the compatible models or families, linking system and firmware requirements. Wi-Fi groups and concurrent Bluetooth source devices are excluded. A stereo pair alone does not establish the maximum when other Bluetooth linking systems are supported. A figure such as 100+ is stored as 100.

Not available

Not available

Connectivity

11 of 16 differ

Bluetooth audio playbackiPlays audio streamed over Bluetooth from a phone or other source. Bluetooth used only for setup or app control does not count.

No16Reviewrtings.com/speaker/reviews/apple/homepod-2nd-generationRead 21 October 2026Public headline row: Bluetooth No. The comparison text says the Apple speaker can only connect via Wi-Fi.

Yes11Reviewdigit.in/reviews/marshall-acton-iii-review-the-definition-of-luxury-listening-experience.htmlRead 20 October 2026

Bluetooth versioniVersion of the Bluetooth radio. Some Wi-Fi speakers use Bluetooth only for setup. See Bluetooth audio playback.

5.01Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generation/specsRead 21 October 2026Wireless: Bluetooth 5.0.

5.21Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Wireless connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2.

Bluetooth codecsiExplicitly supported receive codecs. Bluetooth version alone does not establish codecs.

Not available

SBC11Reviewdigit.in/reviews/marshall-acton-iii-review-the-definition-of-luxury-listening-experience.htmlRead 20 October 2026Review of 2023-11-01: the speaker comes with only the SBC codec, with no aptX or LDAC. The maker does not publish codecs. Some listings claim aptX. They do not name a source for it, so they are not used.

Bluetooth profiles

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth LE AudioiExplicit LE Audio support. Bluetooth LE for app control alone does not qualify.

Not available

Not available

AuracastiExplicit Auracast support. Sending, receiving and speaker-group roles belong in source notes.

Not available

Not available

MultipointiConcurrent Bluetooth source connections. Pairing memory and speaker-to-speaker linking do not qualify.

Not available

Yes3Owner's manualassets.ctfassets.net/javen7msabdh/rk9IngkjyhsC6mtEdeV8o/dcf160d14cddc030bc37534e1daf78e5/Marshall-Acton-III-User-Manual_EN.pdfRead 20 October 2026Bluetooth pairing: Acton III can be connected to two Bluetooth devices at the same time. If a connected device is playing, a second connected device cannot start playing until the first is paused.

Multipoint source devicesiMaximum concurrently connected Bluetooth source devices, not remembered pairings.

Not available

23Owner's manualassets.ctfassets.net/javen7msabdh/rk9IngkjyhsC6mtEdeV8o/dcf160d14cddc030bc37534e1daf78e5/Marshall-Acton-III-User-Manual_EN.pdfRead 20 October 2026Two Bluetooth devices at the same time.

Bluetooth range (claimed)iMaker-claimed Bluetooth range to the source device. Test conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

10m1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Bluetooth range 10 m / 30 ft.

Wi-FiiBuilt-in Wi-Fi, for audio streaming, setup or control.

Yes1Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generation/specsRead 21 October 2026Wireless: 802.11n Wi-Fi.16Reviewrtings.com/speaker/reviews/apple/homepod-2nd-generationRead 21 October 2026Public headline row: Wi-Fi Yes.

No1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026WI-FI: No.12Spec databasesoundguys.com/product/marshall-acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Spec table lists Bluetooth and 3.5 mm AUX as connection types, no Wi-Fi.

Wi-Fi standardsiOne 802.11 name per item, such as 802.11ax. A Wi-Fi generation is written as its standard, so Wi-Fi 5 is 802.11ac and Wi-Fi 6 is 802.11ax. Older standards are listed only when a source names them.

802.11n1Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generation/specsRead 21 October 2026Wireless: 802.11n Wi-Fi. No other standard is named.

Not available

Network audio protocolsiNamed systems that stream audio to the speaker over the home network. AirPlay is written as AirPlay 2. Chromecast built-in is written as Google Cast. Other names follow the maker, such as Spotify Connect.

AirPlay 21Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generation/specsRead 21 October 2026Apple writes AirPlay and lists AirPlay as the way to share other content from iPhone, iPad, Apple TV or Mac. Stored as AirPlay 2 by catalog rule.15Measurementdxomark.com/apple-homepod-2nd-genRead 21 October 2026DXOMARK key specifications: wireless protocol AirPlay. Tested over AirPlay with an iPhone.

Not available

USB audio inputiPlayback from a connected computer or phone through USB. Charging, service ports and USB flash-drive playback do not qualify.

No15Measurementdxomark.com/apple-homepod-2nd-genRead 21 October 2026DXOMARK key specifications: wired connectivity none. The speaker has only a power inlet.

Not available

USB drive playbackiPlayback of audio files on a connected USB storage device.

Not available

Not available

USB audio file formats

Not available

Not available

PortsiPhysical speaker connectors. Record charging, audio input, power output and service roles separately. A shared microphone and guitar jack is one port. A combo jack that takes XLR and 6.35 mm plugs is 6.35 mm audio, and the role names XLR. Optical is a TOSLINK digital audio socket.

AApple HomePod (2nd generation)

Connector	Count	Role
AC power	1	Mains power input for the detachable power cord

Source11Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/homepod/important-safety-information-apd3e7fff0eb/homepodRead 21 October 2026Safety text: for HomePod (2nd generation), only use the power cord specified by Apple. This points to a replaceable cord. Engadget names it detachable.14Press articleengadget.com/homepod-2-second-gen-teardown-repairability-151518781.htmlRead 21 October 2026Engadget on the iFixit teardown: the speaker has a detachable power cord.

BMarshall Acton III

Connector	Count	Role
3.5 mm audio	1	AUX audio input on the top panel
AC power	1	Mains power input, 100 to 240 V, 50 to 60 Hz

Source1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Wired connectivity: 3.5 mm input. The product details and manual show the 3.5 mm input on the top panel and a power input. Mains input voltage 100-240 V and mains frequency 50-60 Hz. The FAQ says Acton has no RCA input.3Owner's manualassets.ctfassets.net/javen7msabdh/rk9IngkjyhsC6mtEdeV8o/dcf160d14cddc030bc37534e1daf78e5/Marshall-Acton-III-User-Manual_EN.pdfRead 20 October 2026Device layout: 3.5 mm input on top, source selection, power input with the included mains lead.

Controls and software

7 of 8 differ

SpeakerphoneiBuilt-in microphone and call support, through a connected phone or a voice assistant's calling. A microphone used only for voice commands does not count. Microphone inputs for karaoke are separate.

Yes2Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generationRead 21 October 2026Overview: HomePod handles phone calls. The user guide describes the speakerphone.8Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/homepod/use-for-phone-calls-apdeaa15a6c3/homepodRead 21 October 2026HomePod works as a speakerphone for telephone and FaceTime audio calls through an iPhone or iPad. An iPhone is required for telephone calls.16Reviewrtings.com/speaker/reviews/apple/homepod-2nd-generationRead 21 October 2026Public headline row: Speakerphone Yes.

No1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Microphone system: No.12Spec databasesoundguys.com/product/marshall-acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Spec table: speakerphone No.

Voice assistantsiVoice assistants explicitly usable through the speaker, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri or Sonos Voice Control. State whether a connected phone is required.

Siri1Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generation/specsRead 21 October 2026Audio Technology lists a four-microphone design for far-field Siri. No other assistant is named.

Not available

Controls

Tap the top to play or pause, Double-tap the top to skip, Triple-tap the top to skip back, Touch and hold the top for Siri, Tap or hold the plus and minus buttons for volume1Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generation/specsRead 21 October 2026Touch Controls: tap for play or pause, double-tap to skip, triple-tap to skip back, touch and hold for Siri, tap or hold plus or minus for volume.9Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/homepod/use-touch-controls-apd7ba1aa325/homepodRead 21 October 2026Touch controls on top: touch and hold for Siri, tap or hold plus and minus for volume, tap to pause and resume, double-tap for next track, triple-tap for previous track.

Source button, Volume knob, Bass knob, Treble knob, Play/pause button, Skip backward and forward control, Power switch1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Top panel controls: source button, volume control knob, bass control knob, treble control knob, play/pause button, skip backward/forward control knob, power switch.3Owner's manualassets.ctfassets.net/javen7msabdh/rk9IngkjyhsC6mtEdeV8o/dcf160d14cddc030bc37534e1daf78e5/Marshall-Acton-III-User-Manual_EN.pdfRead 20 October 2026Device layout: source button, audio controls for volume, bass and treble, media control (push to play or pause, push right or left to skip), power switch.

Companion app

Home10Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/homepod/change-settings-apde6dc8093d/homepodRead 21 October 2026HomePod settings are changed in the Home app.

Marshall Bluetooth1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Compatible apps: Marshall Bluetooth app (iOS and Android).3Owner's manualassets.ctfassets.net/javen7msabdh/rk9IngkjyhsC6mtEdeV8o/dcf160d14cddc030bc37534e1daf78e5/Marshall-Acton-III-User-Manual_EN.pdfRead 20 October 2026Marshall Bluetooth app named for setup and updates.

App platforms

iOS, iPadOS10Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/homepod/change-settings-apde6dc8093d/homepodRead 21 October 2026The guide names the Home app on iPhone or iPad. The specs page requires an iPhone or iPad with the latest iOS or iPadOS.

iOS, Android1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Compatible apps: Marshall Bluetooth app (iOS and Android).

User firmware updates

Yes10Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/homepod/change-settings-apde6dc8093d/homepodRead 21 October 2026The owner can turn automatic HomePod software updates on or off in the Home app. Updates install through the Home app and the iPhone or iPad Settings.

Yes1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026OTA (over-the-air) software updates: Yes, through the Marshall Bluetooth app.2Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/support/speakers/support-for-acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Latest firmware version: ensure the firmware is up to date by connecting the product to the Marshall Bluetooth app.3Owner's manualassets.ctfassets.net/javen7msabdh/rk9IngkjyhsC6mtEdeV8o/dcf160d14cddc030bc37534e1daf78e5/Marshall-Acton-III-User-Manual_EN.pdfRead 20 October 2026Troubleshooting: connect to the Marshall Bluetooth app and follow the in-app instructions to get the latest firmware.

Built-in lightingiDecorative or ambient lighting. Status, battery, connection and microphone indicator LEDs alone do not qualify.

Yes2Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generationRead 21 October 2026Overview: with Sound Glow, the top lights up with colors that match the album artwork and pulses in tune with the music. This is on the current maker page and may need HomePod software 27.

Not available

Lighting modes

Sound Glow (colors match the album artwork and pulse with the music)2Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generationRead 21 October 2026Same overview text. Voice control for Sound Glow needs an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone.

Not available

Smart home

2 of 3 differ

Matter controlleriCan add and control Matter devices. Being a Matter device alone does not count.

Yes2Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generationRead 21 October 2026Overview: as a smart home hub HomePod controls HomeKit and Matter accessories. Apple calls it an essential building block for Matter.3Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2023/01/apple-introduces-the-new-homepod-with-breakthrough-sound-and-intelligenceRead 21 October 2026HomePod connects to and controls Matter-enabled accessories and serves as an essential home hub.12Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/102557Read 21 October 2026A home hub is needed to add Matter accessories to the Home app. HomePod and HomePod mini become home hubs when set up.

Not available

Thread border routeriConnects Thread smart home devices to the home network.

Yes1Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generation/specsRead 21 October 2026Wireless: Thread networking technology. Footnote: Thread accessories need a Thread-enabled home hub, such as Apple TV 4K, HomePod (2nd generation), HomePod mini or a third-party Thread border router.12Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/102557Read 21 October 2026Thread-enabled Matter accessories need a Thread-enabled home hub, such as HomePod mini or Apple TV 4K.

Not available

Zigbee hubiA built-in Zigbee radio that controls Zigbee smart home devices.

Not available

Not available

Battery and charging

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Built-in battery

No16Reviewrtings.com/speaker/reviews/apple/homepod-2nd-generationRead 21 October 2026Public headline row: Battery Powered No.

No1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Power section lists mains input only. The box holds a mains lead and no battery or charger is named. Digit and SoundGuys state it is mains powered.11Reviewdigit.in/reviews/marshall-acton-iii-review-the-definition-of-luxury-listening-experience.htmlRead 20 October 2026Review: powered off the wall and has no battery.12Spec databasesoundguys.com/product/marshall-acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Spec table: power source AC mains.

Playback time (claimed)iMaximum maker-claimed music playback on one charge in normal playback mode. Battery extension or reduced-bass boost modes belong in battery_life_boost_h. Record volume and lighting conditions in the source note.

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Playback with battery extension (claimed)iTotal claimed runtime with the named battery extension mode enabled. Store the total, not only the extra hours. Keep sound and lighting restrictions in the source note.

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Battery energyiPublished battery pack energy. Do not calculate from an assumed voltage.

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Battery capacityiPublished pack capacity at the voltage in battery_voltage_v. Do not substitute power-bank output capacity. A figure written per cell, such as 5000mAh*2, is not a pack capacity unless the maker states the pack figure.

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Nominal battery voltage

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Battery chemistry

Not available

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User-replaceable batteryiBattery that the maker documents as replaceable by the user. Service replacement does not qualify.

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Full charge timeiTime from discharged to full under the maker conditions. Adapter rating and simultaneous use belong in source notes.

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Quick charge duration

Not available

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Playback after quick chargeiClaimed music playback after quick_charge_min of charging. Source conditions apply.

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Charging input ratingiPublished speaker input voltage and current. An adapter rating alone does not establish device input.

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Max charging inputiPublished maximum charging input. USB audio power requirements and adapter output are separate.

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USB Power Delivery charging

Not available

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Charges other devices

Not available

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Max power-bank outputiPublished power delivered by the speaker to another device. Output voltage and current belong in the source note.

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Wireless chargingiThe speaker battery can be charged wirelessly. Wireless power output to another device is separate.

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Durability

None of 5 known

Dust and water ratingiExact published IP rating. Keep separate ratings, such as IP68 and IP69, as separate entries.

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Floats

Not available

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Drop resistanceiExplicit maker claim or defined drop test. Do not infer from rugged wording.

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Drop test heightiMaker-published tested height. Surface and conditions belong in source notes.

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Carry featuresiPublished handles, straps, carabiners or wheels.

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Measured

None of 6 known

Playback time (measured)iReviewer-measured playback per charge. Volume, lighting, sound mode, firmware and connection belong in the source note.

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Max sound pressure (measured)iReviewer-measured maximum SPL. Distance, test method and power source belong in source notes.

Not available

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Low-frequency extension (measured)iReviewer-measured low-frequency limit. Threshold and test method belong in source notes.

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High-frequency extension (measured)iReviewer-measured high-frequency limit. Threshold and test method belong in source notes.

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Audio latency (measured)iReviewer-measured source-to-speaker latency. Source device, app, codec, firmware and connection belong in source notes. App compensation may affect results.

Not available

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Full charge time (measured)iReviewer-measured time from empty to full. Power adapter and method belong in the source note.

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Dimensions and weight

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DimensionsiSpeaker body width, height and depth on explicitly identified axes. Unlabeled tuples do not establish axis meanings. Handle, strap and orientation conditions belong in the source note.

Width142Height168Depth142mm(5.6 × 6.6 × 5.6 in)1Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generation/specsRead 21 October 2026Size and weight: 5.6 inches wide (142 mm) and 6.6 inches high (168 mm). The speaker is a cylinder, so the width is the diameter. Apple gives no depth. DXOMARK lists the depth as 14.2 cm, the same as the width. Apple says size and weight vary by manufacturing process.5Spec databaseeverymac.com/systems/apple/homepod/specs/apple-homepod-2nd-gen-smart-speaker-a2825-specs.htmlRead 21 October 2026EveryMac: the HomePod (2nd Gen) is a cylinder, 6.6 inches tall and 5.6 inches wide (168 mm by 142 mm).15Measurementdxomark.com/apple-homepod-2nd-genRead 21 October 2026DXOMARK key specifications: height 16.8 cm, width 14.2 cm, depth 14.2 cm.

Width260Height170Depth150mm(10.2 × 6.7 × 5.9 in)1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026The product details block prints 260 x 170 x 150 mm. The hardware table labels the same numbers as width 170, height 150 and depth 260 mm. The printed order is stored, as for Acton IV. LDLC labels width 260, height 170 and depth 150. This is a conflict in the maker page.10Retailer pageldlc.com/en/product/PB00503434.htmlRead 20 October 2026Retailer spec labels width 260 mm, height 170 mm and depth 150 mm, with weight 2.85 kg. Manufacturer reference ACTON3BTBK.

WeightiSpeaker mass including its battery. Excludes packaging, charger and removable carry accessories unless the source states otherwise.

2,300g(5.1 lb)1Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generation/specsRead 21 October 2026Weight: 5.16 pounds (2.3 kg). Stored as the maker's metric value. The pound figure converts to about 2340 g, which is inside the rounding of 2.3 kg.5Spec databaseeverymac.com/systems/apple/homepod/specs/apple-homepod-2nd-gen-smart-speaker-a2825-specs.htmlRead 21 October 2026EveryMac: 5.16 lbs (2.3 kg).15Measurementdxomark.com/apple-homepod-2nd-genRead 21 October 2026DXOMARK key specifications: 2300.0 g.

2,850g(6.3 lb)1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Weight 2.85 kg / 6.28 lb.

Body materials

Acoustically transparent mesh fabric3Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2023/01/apple-introduces-the-new-homepod-with-breakthrough-sound-and-intelligenceRead 21 October 2026A seamless, acoustically transparent mesh fabric. Midnight uses 100 percent recycled mesh fabric.

Leather-like material1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026FAQ: all Marshall products are vegan-friendly and only leather-like material is used. The maker does not name the material further.

Certifications

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FCC IDs

BCGA28256Regulatory filingfccid.io/BCG-A2825Read 21 October 2026FCC ID BCGA2825, Smart Speaker by Apple Inc., application date 2023-01-18. fccid.io mirrors the FCC database.

Not available

Other certifications

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In the box

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In the box

HomePod, Power cable, Documentation1Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generation/specsRead 21 October 2026In the Box: HomePod, power cable, documentation.

Acton III speaker, User manual and legal and safety information, Mains lead1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Box contents: Acton III speaker, user manual and legal and safety information, mains lead.

Links

Not compared

Product page

www.apple.com/homepod-2nd-generation2Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generationRead 21 October 2026

www.marshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iii1Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/product/acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Maker's US product page, Black colour selected (pid 1006008).

Spec sheet

www.apple.com/homepod-2nd-generation/specs1Maker product pageapple.com/homepod-2nd-generation/specsRead 21 October 2026

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Manual

support.apple.com/guide/homepod/welcome/homepod7Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/homepod/welcome/homepodRead 21 October 2026HomePod User Guide for HomePod and HomePod mini. The guide names HomePod (2nd generation) in its stereo pair and safety pages.

assets.ctfassets.net/javen7msabdh/rk9IngkjyhsC6mtEdeV8o/dcf160d14cddc030bc37534e1daf78e5/Marshall-Acton-III-User-Manual_EN.pdf2Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/support/speakers/support-for-acton-iiiRead 20 October 2026Documents section links the full online manual.3Owner's manualassets.ctfassets.net/javen7msabdh/rk9IngkjyhsC6mtEdeV8o/dcf160d14cddc030bc37534e1daf78e5/Marshall-Acton-III-User-Manual_EN.pdfRead 20 October 2026Full online manual, English first, many languages in one PDF.

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

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Warranty

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Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

1year13Maker product pageapple.com/legal/warranty/products/ios-warranty-document-us.htmlRead 21 October 2026Apple One (1) Year Limited Warranty covers HomePod hardware from the date of original retail purchase. US terms.

2years4Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/policies/warrantyRead 20 October 2026US market. Marshall's policy gives a two-year limited warranty on speakers bought from marshall.com or a Marshall authorized dealer in the United States, counted from purchase or delivery. The support page says one year for all products and an exclusive two years for marshall.com purchases. So two years is certain only for marshall.com purchases.5Maker product pagemarshall.com/us/en/support/warrantyRead 20 October 2026Support page: all products carry a 1-year warranty, and an exclusive 2-year warranty applies to speakers bought online at marshall.com.

Both are also in the API. Back to all wireless speakers.