Music streaming services have undoubtedly become one of the main ways people listen to music. With just the tap of a button or two, you have access to countless songs aging back to the dawn of time. The convenience and ease of streaming services are what makes it a top option for listening to music. So, the question that comes up is, which streaming service should you use?
We’ve gathered a list of some of the Internet’s favorite music streaming platforms to see which one is most worth your time.
1. Spotify
Arguably the most popular streaming service on this list, Spotify covers everything the average music listener would need. Spotify offers three monthly subscription plans to choose from (where applicable): Spotify Student US$4.99/month, Spotify Premium US$9.99/month, Spotify Family US$14.99/month. Don't worry if you’re skimping on costs, Spotify Free is a viable option.
Pros
The Spotify algorithm, which creates personalized playlists based on your listening history
Available across multiple platforms
Follow artists for new music release updates or artist playlists
The exciting end of year tradition, Spotify Wrapped
Cons
Does not offer lossless quality as of the moment
Ads in Spotify Free could be a bother
2. Apple music
Another big name in the audio streaming service, Apple Music doesn’t fall too far behind Spotify. Like Spotify, Apple Music is available on both iOS and Android for $9.99/month with three other plans: For students US$4.99/month, Family tier US$14.99/month, 12-month plan US$99.
Pros
Hi-res, spatial and lossless audio quality
Curated playlists made by musicians and crew at Apple Music
Algorithms to personalize music you could potentially enjoy
Access to lyrics and music videos
Cons
Apple Music’s user interface is, arguably, less enjoyable (The radio button in the main tab may be redundant for the millions of users who do not make use of the radio feature)
3. YouTube music
One of the best options for music video fanatics, Youtube Music is slowly but surely finding its place among the many great options available for streaming music. Available for free (supported by ads) or with three other subscription plan options: For students US$5/month, Individual plan US$10/month, Family plan US$15/month.
Pros
Content available to download for offline playback
The artists you follow on Youtube music won’t be merged with your Youtube account subscriptions
Access to recorded live performances
Cons
What we already know and are familiar with on Youtube, makes understanding the purpose of Youtube music a little confusing
Audio quality lags behind its competitors
4. Amazon music unlimited
If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you might want to check out Amazon Music Unlimited. While Amazon Prime Music comes with your Prime membership, you can upgrade to Amazon Music Unlimited for US$7.99/month (and US$9.99/month for non-Prime members).
Pros
Most cost-efficient for existing Prime members
Hi-res and spatial audio quality
Great library with over 90 million songs in HD
Cons
Costs more than its competitors if you don’t have Amazon Prime
No video or radio features
5. Tidal
Tidal has long been a favorite for streaming music. Offering the best audio quality and an extensive catalog, many consider Tidal to be a top choice for listening to music on non-Apple devices. With the most costly subscription plans on this list, Tidal offers two subscription plans: HiFi US$9.99/month, HiFi Plus US$19.99/month. They also offer a family plan that costs US$4.99/month for each person added, and a student plan which gives 50% off both HiFi and HiFi Plus.
Pros
Artist compensation is inarguably the best among this list. With Hi-Fi Plus, 10% of your subscription payment goes directly to artists (excluding standard streaming royalties!)
Hi-fidelity audio quality, including tracks with immersive sound
User interface is convenient and sophisticated
Cons
Their free option, Tidal Free, is only available in the US as of now
