Will Fenton
Do you always have some music playing in the background?
If the answer is yes, then finding a good music streaming service is important.
But as you may have noticed, there are plenty of streaming options available for music nowadays.
And although it might seem they’re very similar at first, each streaming service has its own unique features and highlights.
So in today’s post, we’ll introduce you to the best music streaming services and their main features.
With this information, you’ll be able to make a choice and commit to a platform that suits you best.
1. Spotify
Let’s start with one of the most popular streaming services in the world.
Spotify is also probably the biggest music streaming platform ever.
The platform is so popular for a good reason though – it’s convenient and well-designed, and it’s packed with handy features.
You can launch the Spotify app on Android, iPhone, desktop, and smart TV apps, and you can use it in the car.
The app offers collaborative playlists, group session options, podcasts, and an extensive music library.
Spotify’s catalog is very easy to navigate – you can search music by artists, genres, moods, similar artists, and so on.
And you can always count on finding new releases.
Spotify also creates multiple daily and weekly playlists based on your music preferences.
The Release Radar playlist is very cool as well.
Spotify is free to use – however, the free version lacks flexibility – Spotify Premium allows you to skip endlessly in the app and listen to music without ads.
Spotify subscriptions start at $10/month, and there are also Premium Duo and Premium Family subscription plans available.
All in all, Spotify is a top choice for anyone looking for a simple music streaming service with a huge song library.
See also: Best Spotify Playlists
2. Apple Music
Apple Music is also regarded as one of the top music streaming services.
The service is compatible with iOS devices running version 8.4 or later – in fact, the Apple Music app is already on your Apple devices
But you can use Apple Music even if you don’t have an Apple device and access it via the company’s dedicated app.
So, it’s no wonder that Apple Music service became so popular.
It features rich Hi-Res Audio and Dolby Atmos sound, and the app’s premium features include Spatial Audio, Lossless Audio, Lyrics, and music videos.
The app’s vast catalog features more than 100 million songs available in CD quality, with most tracks available in hi-res.
The interface is also quite intuitive, whether you’re using a mobile or desktop app.
To access Apple Music features and perks, you can choose between several pricing plans, including Voice, Student, Individual, and Family plans, all of which are quite affordable.
And just like Spotify, Apple Music does a great job of curating playlists and providing useful recommendations.
So all things considered, if you’re searching for a top-notch music streaming app with a great sound quality, you can’t go wrong with Apple Music.
See also: Apple Music Statistics
3. Tidal
Tidal is another global music streaming platform that offers cool features, high-quality sound, and a ton of content.
It’s available on iOS, Android, and desktop.
They offer a free trial, but you can sign up for as little as $10 and get access to more than 100 million songs and lossless 16-bit 44.1kHz audio streams.
The app has an intuitive interface and its design is very slick.
Besides a great user experience, Tidal also provides expertly curated playlists and the opportunity to discover new music without hassle.
And it allows you to listen to music with others in real time.
You can even act as a DJ and play music for your friends with Tidal’s new Live feature.
Moreover, Tidal is focused on supporting artists – their artist’s program provides direct funding, educational support, mentorship, and industry connections.
That said, if you want to support a global service focused on building a community of music lovers and supporting artists, you should subscribe to Tidal.
4. Amazon Music Unlimited
Amazon Music Unlimited is another great streaming option, especially for those interested in Amazon services.
You can use it for free for 30 days and test the waters.
But if you’re a music lover searching for high-quality streaming and top-notch features, Amazon Music probably won’t let you down.
If you want to keep using the app, you can subscribe – their plans start at $8.99/month, and if you subscribe to Amazon Prime, the price will drop even lower.
Either way, Amazon Music Unlimited is definitely worth checking out.
It offers an extensive music and video library, ad-free podcasts, and the possibility to listen to music offline.
It also features spatial audio and thousands of songs in Dolby and 360 reality audio.
Just like Spotify and Apple Music, Amazon Music Unlimited is available on tablets, smartphones, and desktops.
But unlike its rivals, it doesn’t have such intelligent music recommendations and carefully curated playlists – but it does provide guidance, so you can browse the library with ease.
Nonetheless, Amazon Music Unlimited is a top streaming service, and its innovative features earned it a well-deserved spot on our list.
5. Deezer
If you’re looking for a reliable, well-established streaming service, you should also check out Deezer.
Deezer is one of the first music streamers – it debuted in 2007 and has continued to grow and evolve ever since.
The platform was also the first one to offer 360 Reality Audio tracks, an immersive format similar to Dolby Atmos.
Apart from innovative features, Deezer is a good streaming option because it offers a huge music library, vast device support, and High Fidelity sound.
And thanks to its user-friendly interface, it’s very easy to navigate.
But one of Deezer’s most unique features is the possibility to upload MP3 files from your computer – this way, you can have all your music in one place.
Deezer offers a 1-month free trial, and then you can use it for $11 per month.
You can also opt for a Family plan ($18/month) and get 6 individual accounts and the possibility to listen simultaneously on multiple devices.
6. YouTube Music
YouTube Music is a music streaming service developed by YouTube.
And although it didn’t look like it would match its competitors when it first came out, YouTube Music is now looking better than ever.
The platform looks slick, it offers handy tools, and it’s easy to navigate.
If you’re using your YouTube channel to watch YouTube music videos, YouTube Music will create playlists based on your preferences.
Songs are also categorized by music genre and mood – and there are many lists to browse, including Party, Commute, the 2000s, Energy Boosters, Classical Favorites, and so on.
The platform will also remind you of new releases and today’s best hits.
And if you sign up for YouTube Music Premium ($10/month), you’ll get the possibility to listen offline, download music, and listen to music ad-free.
Either way, the YouTube Music streaming platform is really convenient, especially if you compare it to the standard YouTube website.
With YouTube Music, you can turn off the screen and use other apps, while your music keeps playing.
And you can enjoy your favorite music without any unnecessary options and features.
7. Qobuz
Qobuz is another music streaming service worth checking out.
However, it’s not available in all countries.
So, depending on your location, you can enjoy the platform’s high-resolution streaming and curated playlists.
Qobuz has a vast library full of new releases and old classics, and it’s generally very easy to navigate.
Whether you’re using it on your phone or desktop, the app looks slick and eye-catching.
And it offers cool extra content, such as interviews, guest playlists, PDF notes, and background articles.
So, the service is ideal for music fans searching for music as well as additional content.
And thanks to its audio quality, Qobuz is also a great choice for listeners who appreciate the impeccable sound.
8. LiveOne
LiveOne is a music streaming platform that combines audio and video.
In fact, LiveOne offers a wide range of content, including live performances, podcasts, comedy stations, concert streams, and so on.
It’s a versatile platform for sure, so although it doesn’t look as slick as some other services on this list, it’s certainly worth checking out.
LiveOne provides carefully curated playlists and channels and an ad-free listening experience.
It also offers radio services, although they’re available only in the US and Canada.
Generally, the app is available on a variety of devices, including tablets, smartphones, smart TV, car, and Chromecast.
All in all, LiveOne is a good music streaming service, but it’s probably best for music fans who will benefit from its live concert streams.
9. Idagio
Are you ready for something different?
If you love classical music, you’ll be delighted to hear that you can now stream your favorite classical tracks and live classical concerts in a smooth and simple way.
Idagio offers a large selection of classical music as well as live concert options and exclusive recording content.
The app is also very slick and well-designed, and it provides good sound quality.
Plus, Idagio offers an online creative space where you can learn from renowned artists first-hand and in real time.
And it’s not only limited to classical pieces – with the Premium+Concerts plan, you can also get access to high-end concerts, operas, and dance, along with educational programs.
So if you want to immerse yourself in the world of classical music, look no further – Idagio is the perfect music streaming service for you.
10. iHeartRadio
Launched in 2008, iHeartRadio has been around for a while now.
It’s a versatile platform for sure – it’s a combination of terrestrial radio, curated artist channels, and podcasts.
But it’s a good platform for streaming music.
It features a music library and many live and curated artist streams.
However, if you’re looking for top-notch music streaming features and hi-res audio tracks, you might be a bit disappointed.
Nevertheless, iHeartRadio still deserves a place on this list, and it’s one of the most popular music-related services for a good reason.
How to Choose a Music Streaming Service?
As you can see, there are many great music streaming services to choose from.
However, each platform has its own features and benefits.
So, before choosing a music streaming service, you should think about your priorities and preferences.
For instance, you can ask yourself the following questions:
- What is your budget?
- What devices do you use the most?
- Do you like to discover new music?
- What do you expect from your music streaming app?
All the best music streaming platforms we overviewed today are popular, well-designed, and user-friendly.
And most of them offer high-quality audio and a wide range of content.
But you need to choose a platform that meets your needs.
If you generally appreciate high-quality sound, you should opt for a service that supports hi-res audio and offers overall great sound quality.
You can also check if the service offers spatial audio, an immersive 360-degree sound technology.
And if your goal is to get personalized playlists and discover new music, you should opt for a platform that provides intelligent, carefully curated playlists.
On the other hand, if you’re simply looking for an app that will allow you to listen to your favorite tunes without hassle, you can opt for a budget-friendly streaming service that won’t overwhelm you with too many tools and options.
So, it all depends on what you’re looking for.
The good news is, many streaming platforms offer free trials, so you can test it out first.
Best Music Streaming Services – Final Thoughts
With the rise of online music streaming services, listening to music on the go has never been easier.
In fact, music streaming platforms offer a variety of features and perks nowadays – from curated playlists to social and creative tools.
And thankfully, most of these platforms offer affordable memberships, and almost all of them offer free trials.
That said, you should opt for the platform that grabbed your attention, test it out, and check if it really meets your needs.
You may also like: Best Free Music Apps That Don’t Need WiFi
