Welcome to the ultimate showdown between two music streaming giants: Apple Music vs Spotify! In a world where music is at our fingertips, choosing the right platform can make all the difference in your listening experience. Get ready to dive into the comparison of features, pricing, and user reviews to help you decide which service suits your musical needs best. Let’s find out which of these titans will be crowned as the superior music streaming service – Apple Music vs Spotify – Which is Better ?
Apple Music vs Spotify – Overview
When it comes to music streaming services, Apple Music and Spotify are two of the biggest players in the game. Apple Music offers a seamless integration with other Apple devices, making it a popular choice among iPhone users. On the other hand, Spotify is known for its vast music library and personalized playlists tailored to your taste.
Apple Music boasts an extensive collection of over 60 million songs available for streaming or download offline. Meanwhile, Spotify takes pride in its algorithm-driven playlists like Discover Weekly and Release Radar that introduce users to new music based on their listening habits.
Both platforms offer free trials and premium subscriptions with similar pricing tiers. While Apple Music may appeal more to those already invested in the Apple ecosystem, Spotify’s user-friendly interface and social sharing features make it a favorite among music enthusiasts worldwide.
Apple has undergone a remarkable transformation into the digital music streaming service it is today. Originating as the iTunes downloads platform, it has evolved into a streaming powerhouse offering high-quality music streams, delivering full CD-quality music files at the very least. Moreover, it provides spatial audio content through Dolby Atmos. Additionally, subscribers can access a dedicated Apple Music Classical app at no additional charge.
For
100 million songs in CD and hi-res sound quality
Spatial audio
Curated content
Against
No free tier
Limited support outside of Apple
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Spotify dominates the market largely due to its free tier and wide device compatibility. However, its Premium subscription stands out as the superior choice. Despite offering audio streams at a lower data rate compared to competitors, Spotify delivers captivating sound quality. Moreover, it excels in music discovery with an extensive range of playlists catering to various activities and personalized content that adapts to users’ listening preferences.
For
Strongest platform support
Extensive curated content features
Social media integration
Great ease of use and reliable search tool
Against
Audio quality is bettered by rivals
Poor artist remuneration
APPLE MUSIC VS SPOTIFY – SPECS COMPARED
| Apple Music | Spotify | |
|---|---|---|
| Library size | >100 million tracks | >70 million tracks |
| Audio quality | Apple Music Lossless (from 16-bit/44.1kHz to 24-bit/48kHz) and Hi-Res Lossless (up to 24-bit/192kHz) | Up to 320kbps |
| Audio file format | ALAC | Ogg/Vorbis |
| Platform support | iOS and desktop | iOS and Android apps, desktop, web player, smart TVs, connected speakers, cars |
| Exclusive features | Works with Siri on the HomePod/HomePod mini; Apple Music 1 Radio; Cloud music locker; spatial audio | Available on PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S and Xbox One; Spotify Studios podcasts |
The pricing structures for Spotify vs Apple Music are quite similar, but there’s one notable distinction: Spotify offers a free tier to start with. However, this free option includes interruptions with recorded ads and ads within the app itself. Upgrading to Spotify Premium tier eliminates these ads entirely. For a comprehensive breakdown of the disparities between Spotify Free vs Premium, explore our comparison.
Effective July 24, 2023, the cost of a Spotify Premium subscription has increased from $9.99 to $10.99 per month for U.S. users. This marks the first price hike for Premium subscriptions in the United States in 12 years. Spotify Duo, tailored for two-person households, will now be priced at $14.99 per month, while Premium Family will cost $16.99 per month, and Premium Student is adjusted to $5.99 per month. Although there’s no official annual subscription for Spotify Premium, you can bypass this limitation by purchasing a $99 gift card for a one-year Spotify subscription on Amazon.
APPLE MUSIC VS SPOTIFY – PRICE AND AVAILABILITY
| Apple Music | Spotify | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $10.99 / £10.99 / AU$12.99 per month | $10.99 / £10.99 / AU$12.99 per month |
| Student Price | $5.99 / £5.99 / AU$5.99 per month | $5.99 / £5.99 per month |
| ‘Duo’ Household | — | $14.99 / £14.99 / AU$17.99 per month, 2 accounts |
| Family Package | $16.99 / £16.99 / AU$25.95 per month for 6 accounts | $16.99 / £17.99 / AU$20.99 per month for 6 accounts |
| Annual Plan | $109.99 per year | $99 per year (with gift card) |
In 2022, Apple raised its prices but maintained its standard offerings of lossless streaming and spatial audio support. Additionally, it introduced a specialized Apple Music Classical app, granting existing subscribers access to 5 million classical tracks in lossless and hi-res audio formats at no extra cost.
Apple Music now offers various subscription options ranging from a Student plan at $5.99 per month to Individual and Family plans priced at $10.99 and $16.99 per month, respectively. It’s worth noting that subscribing to the Apple Music annual plan involves a somewhat complex process: users must first sign up for a monthly plan and then switch to annual billing either through the app or their Apple device’s account settings. Detailed instructions for this can be found on the Apple support site.
Despite Spotify’s free tier, Apple Music’s individual monthly fee provides excellent value.
Winner: Apple Music
APPLE MUSIC VS SPOTIFY – MUSIC LIBRARY SIZE
Apple Music vs Spotify boast extensive music collections, but Apple takes the lead by offering “over 100 million” songs compared to Spotify’s “over 80 million.” Additionally, Spotify incorporates approximately 2.6 million podcast titles, while Apple provides a separate service for podcasts through Apple Podcasts. Consequently, Apple Music offers a greater number of purely musical tracks overall.
In terms of sheer quantity, Apple emerges as the winner. However, for most users, both platforms are highly likely to have the artists they desire, unless they have particularly unique tastes.
Winner: Apple Music
APPLE MUSIC VS SPOTIFY – SOUND QUALITY
Apple Music’s extensive library utilizes the ALAC file format, supporting resolutions from 16-bit/44.1kHz (CD-quality) to 24-bit/192kHz (hi-res audio). Additionally, it offers spatial audio with Dolby Atmos support, ensuring top-notch sound quality in terms of resolution and bit rate. However, one minor drawback is that hi-res output isn’t available on Windows desktops.
On the other hand, Spotify offers songs streamed at three different rates (96kbps, 160kbps, and 320kbps), all in the Ogg Vorbis format. The highest quality is reserved for paid Premium subscribers, although there’s anticipation for Spotify HiFi tier, which hasn’t yet been officially announced. Rumors persist since its 2021 announcement, with the latest suggesting it might be incorporated into a new Spotify ‘Supremium’ tier.
Presently, in terms of resolution and bit rate, Apple Music’s lossless content library surpasses Spotify’s.
Winner: Apple Music
APPLE MUSIC VS SPOTIFY – CLOUD STORAGE
Apple Music’s standout feature lies in its iCloud Music Library, accessible via iTunes. This feature enables users to access their collection of tracks in AAC 256kbps format from anywhere, as long as they’re signed in with the same Apple ID. Though the service initially faced challenges due to bugs affecting collections, it has since become a valuable feature, distinguishing itself from competitors.
On the other hand, Spotify offers the convenience of listening to personal MP3s directly within its app. For instructions on how to upload music to Spotify, check out our guide.
Winner: Apple Music
Features comparison: pricing, music library, user interface
When it comes to choosing between Apple Music vs Spotify, understanding the differences in their features is essential. Let’s dive into a comparison of pricing, music library, and user interface.
- Pricing: Apple Music offers a variety of subscription plans, including individual, family, and student options. Meanwhile, Spotify also has similar plans but with the addition of a free tier supported by ads.
- Music Library: Both platforms have extensive music libraries with millions of songs available for streaming. However, some users may find that one platform has certain exclusives or better recommendations based on personal preferences.
- User Interface: Apple Music boasts a sleek and intuitive design that seamlessly integrates with other Apple devices. On the other hand, Spotify is known for its easy-to-use interface and personalized playlists like Discover Weekly.
Considering these factors can help you determine which service aligns best with your music streaming needs.
Pros and cons of Apple Music
When it comes to Apple Music, one of the main advantages is its seamless integration with other Apple devices. This makes syncing your music across all your gadgets a breeze. Additionally, Apple Music boasts an extensive library of over 60 million songs, ensuring that you’ll never run out of tracks to listen to.
On the downside, some users find the user interface of Apple Music slightly less intuitive compared to Spotify. Navigating through playlists and discovering new music may require a bit more effort on this platform. Another point worth mentioning is that Apple Music does not offer a free tier like Spotify’s ad-supported option.
However, for those who are already deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem, Apple Music might be the more convenient choice due to its compatibility with Siri and HomePod devices. Whether Apple Music’s pros outweigh its cons depends on individual preferences and needs.
Pros and cons of Spotify
When it comes to Spotify, one of its major pros is the extensive music library it offers. With millions of songs and playlists at your fingertips, you’re sure to find something for every mood or occasion.
Another advantage of Spotify is its user-friendly interface. Navigating through the app is smooth and intuitive, making it easy to discover new music and create personalized playlists effortlessly.
On the downside, one common complaint about Spotify is the presence of ads in the free version. While they help keep the service free, some users find them disruptive to their listening experience.
Additionally, some users have mentioned that discovering new artists can be a bit challenging on Spotify compared to other platforms. It may not always surface lesser-known musicians as prominently as some would like.
Despite these drawbacks, many users still swear by Spotify for its vast music selection and ease of use.
User reviews and experiences
User reviews and experiences play a crucial role in deciding between Apple Music vs Spotify. Many users praise Apple Music for its seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, making it convenient for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users to access their music library across devices effortlessly. On the other hand, Spotify fans appreciate its extensive music catalog that caters to diverse tastes and moods, allowing users to discover new artists easily.
Some users find Apple Music’s curated playlists tailored to specific genres or activities like workouts or studying particularly enjoyable. In contrast, Spotify’s algorithmic playlists like Discover Weekly are lauded for offering personalized recommendations based on listening history. Additionally, both platforms receive acclaim for their user-friendly interfaces that make navigation a breeze.
User preferences vary based on individual needs and habits. Whether you prioritize exclusive releases from top artists (Apple Music) or customized daily mixes (Spotify), exploring user feedback can offer valuable insights into which platform aligns best with your musical preferences and lifestyle.
Conclusion
After comparing Apple Music vs Spotify, it’s clear that both services have their strengths and weaknesses. For those who prioritize exclusive content and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, Apple Music may be the better choice. On the other hand, Spotify offers a larger music library and more robust social features for music discovery.
The decision between Apple Music and Spotify comes down to personal preference. If you’re someone who values user-friendly interfaces and curated playlists, Apple Music might be your best bet. However, if you’re a music enthusiast looking for a vast selection of songs and innovative features like Discover Weekly, then Spotify could be the ideal service for you.
Whichever streaming platform you choose, both Apple Music and Spotify offer excellent ways to enjoy your favorite tunes on-the-go. So why not give them both a try to see which one suits your listening habits best? Happy streaming!
FAQs
Which music streaming service has a larger library, Apple Music, or Spotify?
Both Apple Music and Spotify boast extensive music libraries, with millions of songs available. While Apple Music claims to have a slightly larger library, the difference is minimal, and both platforms offer a vast selection of music.
Does Spotify offer a free subscription plan?
Yes, Spotify offers a free tier with ads, allowing users to access a limited selection of music. However, premium subscription plans unlock additional features like ad-free listening and offline playback.
Can I use Apple Music on Android devices?
Yes, Apple Music is available on Android devices, allowing users to enjoy the service across various platforms.
Do Apple Music and Spotify offer student discount plans?
Yes, both Apple Music and Spotify offer discounted subscription plans for students, providing access to all premium features at a lower price.
Which music streaming service offers better sound quality, Apple Music, or Spotify?
Sound quality is subjective and depends on various factors like bitrate, audio format, and the quality of the source material. Both Apple Music and Spotify offer high-quality streaming, but some users may prefer the sound characteristics of one platform over the other.
