The Best Music Streaming Services Compared – Spotify vs Apple Music vs Amazon Music Unlimited vs Tidal vs YouTube Music Premium


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woman using laptop and earbudsContent streaming doesn’t stop with TV series and movies. In this post, we’re comparing some of the most popular music streaming services you can subscribe to.

Spotify

Cost: Free for Basic or $9.99/month for Premium

Spotify has apps for all major platforms, including iOS and Android devices. Spotify also recently added Siri support and launched a new Apple TV app.

With millions of songs from well-known and indie artists in the catalogue, there’s a playlist for every mood. A premium account will give you unlimited skipping, offline listening, and the ability to play songs in any order you want.

Spotify will also analyze your listening habits to recommend new music and create customized playlists that include your most-listened to music and similar artists, so you’ll also be discovering something new.

If you don’t want to pay, Spotify has a free version if you don’t mind the ads. You can also get a deal if you’re a student and a discount for a family plan.

Apple Music

Cost: $9.99/month for individuals $14.99/month for families

With 40 million subscribers, Apple Music is a major competitor when it comes to streaming music .

There’s an Apple Music app for other platforms, including Android, but Apple Music was made for Apple devices. You’ll get the clean and streamlined design that you’d expect from an Apple product, along with a large music collection, and live radio options.

The Radio section of Apple Music has stations in nearly any genre you might be looking for. The Beats 1 station is hosted by famous DJs and notable musicians, playing mixes of their personal favorite artists.

While Apple Music doesn’t have a free plan, you can score some good deals. Choose an annual plan to save money overall, sign up for a student account to get 3 months free, or split the cost with family members on a family plan.

Amazon Music Unlimited

Cost: $7.99/month for Prime members $9.99/month for non-members

Amazon Music Unlimited has apps for most devices, including iOS and Android. Amazon Music is now available on the Apple TV too, for those who want to keep all of their entertainment organized on one device.

Choosing Amazon Music Unlimited means being able to use Alexa to give voice commands. If you have an Echo or another Alexa enabled device, you’ll be able to easily choose songs and playlists and control the music throughout your home.

Prime members can use a free version with limited features. Students can get a deal, paying just $4.99 per month.

Tidal

Cost: $9.99/month for Premium, $19.99 for HiFi

Tidal describes their music streaming service as being the higher quality alternative to competitors. The music on Tidal has a higher resolution and offers incredible sound quality. Look for an app for all major platforms, including Android and iOS devices.

Tidal also has exclusive content from artists including Jay Z and Kanye that you won’t find elsewhere. Some artists, including Beyonce and Rihanna, have released music on Tidal before making it available on any other platform.

Tidal offers a 30 day free trial to try out the streaming service before committing. 

YouTube Music Premium

Cost: $9.99/month

YouTube Music Premium has apps for most devices, including Android and iOS. Those with a Google Assistant device will be able to easily pair their device to control music with voice commands. If you’re thinking about getting a new device, you can also get a free YouTube Music account with the purchase of a Google Home.

With YouTube Music Premium, you’ll find unique playlists for every occasion, the ability to choose your music based on mood, and customizable features to match your preferences.

YouTube Music does have a free version if you don’t want to pay for a monthly subscription. Use the one month free trial to decide if YouTube Music Premium is right for you.

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