What are the best music streaming services available today? The choice of which music streaming platform to use is to a great extent based on personal preferences such as sound quality, client interface, and music recommendations, with over 524 million people worldwide utilising these services.
Music streaming currently accounts for 65% of the worldwide music industry’s income, underscoring its overwhelming position in our music consumption habits. A few services offer features like elite content, ad-free listening, or high-resolution audio, making it difficult to choose just one. Eventually, the most excellent service will combine user-friendly features, an endless song catalogue, and personalised recommendations tailored to your taste.
In this blog, we’ll explore the best music streaming services, helping you understand what each service offers.
What is a Music Streaming Service?
Music streaming is an online based service which permits users to access and listen to music in real time without having to download the music. It implies that, instead of buying single songs or albums, users can get access to unlimited resources containing millions of tracks of diverse genres and performers in different languages. These platforms are usually paid, but there are free versions of them containing ads and paid versions containing features such as ad-free listening, download capabilities, and higher audio quality.
Web-based music services have changed how people listen to music, and by using algorithms and customised playlists, it is very easy to get lost in the large selection of music. They learn from other users, recommending new songs or artists consistent with the listener’s behaviour. These services help users make playlists, share music with friends, and enjoy music from almost any device, making music more accessible than ever before whether it’s finding new music or revisiting earlier favourites.
List of 12 Best Music Streaming Services
1. Tidal
Tidal is a paid music streaming service that is popular for providing audio fidelity and access to new tracks from favourite performers. Tidal was officially started in 2014 and is a subsidiary that offers music lovers high-fidelity sound, such as the lossless quality and high-definition master track streaming.
It also features genre-based playlists, created with songs purchased from the store, and other content such as videos from artists featured on iTunes.
Additionally, it supports artist ownership, offering better royalties compared to other platforms.
Key Features
- High-Resolution Audio: Offers lossless audio and master-quality files for audiophiles seeking the best sound experience.
- Exclusive Content: Gives exclusive albums, songs, and videos from best artists, including behind-the-scenes content.
- Curated Playlists: Handcrafted playlists curated by music experts for distinctive moods, genres, and themes.
- Offline Mode: Permits users to download tracks for offline tuning in without compromising on sound quality.
- HiFi Subscription: Offers a premium HiFi plan for lossless sound and access to exclusive content.
- Support for Artists: Provides higher royalties to artists compared to other streaming platforms.
Best For
Audiophiles and users seeking the highest quality audio and exclusive content from top-tier artists.
Pricing
- Individual plan for $10.99/month
- Family plan (for you and up to 5 other family members): $16.99/month
- Student plan: $5.49/month.
Suggested Read: Copyright Free Music Websites
2. Deezer
Deezer is an application for the streaming of music where people can listen to melodies, podcasts, and even different radio stations as it offers more than 90 million tracks. It was established in 2007 and is right now accessible in 180+ countries and offers different subscription levels.
The well-developed “Flow” is a tool that necessitates free music streaming, allowing users to find new tracks based on their preferences. It also has high-quality sound for the individuals who want to enjoy quality sound in their cars.
Key Features
- Massive Music Library: Access to over 90 million tracks, from global hits to indie releases.
- Flow Feature: Personalised music recommendations based on listening habits for seamless music discovery.
- High-Fidelity Audio: Offers HiFi subscription with lossless FLAC sound for prevalent sound quality.
- Podcasts & Radio Channels: Gives access to a variety of podcasts and live radio stations.
- Offline Listening: Permits users to download itunes and playlists for offline tuning in.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Works on different devices including smartphones, desktops, and savvy speakers.
Best For
Users looking for a vast music library and personalised music discovery with excellent sound quality options.
Pricing
- Free
- Premium: $107.99/month
- Duo: $15.99/month
- Student: $5.99/month
- Family: $218.99/month
3. Spotify
The most popular music streaming site called Spotify provides over 100 million tracks and podcasts now. Founded in 2008, the website is available for users and can be used after advertisement or by subscription.
Subjects like the layout of the application, simplicity, and uniqueness of features such as discover weekly and incorporation with social media interface.
Today Spotify opens its users up to millions of songs, podcasts, and playlists so it gets easy for the user to find new content they like and share with their friends.
Key Features
- Massive Music Library: Offers access to over 100 million melodies and a wide range of podcasts.
- Personalised Playlists: Curated playlists like “Discover Weekly” based on tuning in habits for personalised recommendations.
- Social Features: Permits users to share playlists, see what friends are tuning in to, and collaborate on playlists.
- Offline Mode: Users can download their favourite tracks and playlists for offline tuning in.
- Free & Premium Options: Offers a free, ad-supported form and an ad-free premium membership.
- Cross-Platform Access: Available on smartphones, desktops, gaming supports, and smart gadgets.
Best For
Casual listeners who appreciate personalised playlists, strong social sharing, and a gigantic music library.
Pricing
- Mini: ₹29 for 1 week
- 1 mobile-only Premium account
- Offline listening of up to 30 songs on 1 device
- One-time payment
- Basic audio quality
- Individual: ₹119/month
- 1 Premium account
- Cancel anytime
- Subscribe or one-time payment
- Family: ₹179/month
- Up to 6 Premium accounts
- Control content marked as explicit
- Cancel anytime
- Subscribe or one-time payment
- Duo: ₹149/month
- 2 Premium accounts
- Cancel anytime
- Subscribe or one-time payment
- Student: ₹59/month
- 1 verified Premium account
- Discount for eligible students
- Cancel anytime
- Subscribe or one-time payment
4. iHeartRadio
iHeartRadio is an application for broadcast and streaming of many podcasts, radio stations, and music playlists whereby clients can stream content on-demand.
It was begun in 2008 and is right presently operational within the United States, Canada as well as Mexico. It also offers news, sports, and talk radio in expansion to its music catalogue.
The platform is available across various devices and allows for personalised listening experiences through custom radio stations.
Key Features
- Live Radio Access: Gives access to thousands of live radio stations over the U.S.
- Custom Radio Stations: Users can make personalised stations based on their favourite artists or melodies.
- Podcasts: Offers a tremendous library of podcasts across different genres, including well known shows and exclusive content.
- Free to Use: The benefit offers free streaming with ads, with premium choices for ad-free listening and more features.
- Events & Concerts: Hosts exclusive live occasions and concerts for clients to enjoy.
- Available on Multiple Devices: Can be accessed via mobile gadgets, desktops, savvy speakers, and more.
Best For
Users looking for a blend of live radio, podcasts, and personalised music stations.
Pricing
- Free
- iHeartRadio Plus: $4.99/month (web or Google Play Store sign up) or $5.99/month (iOS App Store sign up)
- Listen to hundreds of broadcast radio stations streaming Commercial-Free
- Ad Free Playlists and Artist Stations
- No skip limit
- Create unlimited personalized playlists
- Start your 30-Day Free Trial and cancel anytime
- iHeartRadio All Access: $9.99/month (web or Google Play Store sign up) or $12.99/month (iOS App Store sign up)
- Search and play any song, album, and playlist with our library of millions of songs on demand
- Save and replay any song with our music app from the radio
- Download music to your iPhone, Tablet, or Android to listen offline
5. YouTube Music
YouTube Music started in 2018 and is a streaming service for music and has a close connection with YouTube as a platform for music videos. It has a free subscription, and a paid one and users can listen to official songs, albums, remixes, live performances, and cover.
YouTube Music is quite unique by offering users music that is relevant to their activity and geographical location.
Key Features
- Music Videos & Live Performances: Gives access to official music videos, remixes, live appears, and covers.
- Smart Recommendations: Personalised playlists and suggestions based on tuning in habits, time of day, and location.
- Offline Listening: Premium subscribers can download melodies for offline playback.
- Ad-Free Music: Offers a premium membership for an ad-free experience.
- Integration with YouTube: Consistently connects with regular YouTube, permitting users to switch between video and audio content.
- Dynamic Playlists: Curated playlists that adjust to your mood, time of day, and exercises.
Best For
Listeners who appreciate a mix of sound streaming and video content like live performances, remixes, and covers.
Pricing
- Individual: ₹119/month
- Family: ₹179/month
- Student: ₹59/month
6. Pandora
Pandora is one of the well developed music streaming and internet radio that provides music based on the preferences of users.
Incorporated in the year 2000, Pandora’s differentiating factor called the Music Genome Project categorises songs relative to a user’s preferences in an attempt to present customised channels. Listeners also receive personalised playlists of songs that may be of interest and podcasts.
Although there is a free version with ads, monthly subscription also entitles its users to the unrestricted amount of skips, offline mode, and on-demand music.
Key Features
- Music Genome Project: Progressed algorithm curates personalised radio stations based on song qualities and client preferences.
- Custom Stations: Users can make personalised stations based on their favourite melodies, specialists, or genres.
- Free & Premium Options: Offers a free version with ads and premium plans for ad-free, on-demand listening.
- Offline Listening: Premium users can download stations and playlists for offline use.
- Podcast Streaming: Gives access to a developing catalogue of well known and exclusive podcasts.
- Unlimited Skips: Premium subscribers can appreciate unlimited song skips and replays.
Best For
Listeners who favour algorithm-driven radio stations and personalised music recommendations based on detailed song qualities.
Pricing
- Pandora Plus: $4.99/month or $54.89/year
- Pandora Premium: $10.99/month or $120.89/annually
- Premium Family: $17.99/month or $197.89/annually
- Student Premium: $5.99/month or $71.88/annually
- Military Premium: $8.99/month or $98.89/annually
7. LiveXLive
LiveXLive is a streaming service company that majorly streams live music events, live concerts, and live performances. Apart from giving the client access to stream music and playlists, it grants one an opportunity to watch exclusive concerts, music festivals and more with live streams.
Each of the users can listen to concerts in real-time and also to the individual songs as well as by the genre’s choice.
Key Features
- Live Performances: Gives exclusive access to live concerts, music celebrations, and presentations.
- Curated Playlists: Offers an assortment of pre-made playlists for different moods and sorts.
- On-Demand Music: Grants users to stream their favourite tracks and collections on-demand.
- Music Video Streaming: Consolidates access to music videos, interviews, and behind-the-scenes of film.
- Cross-Platform Access: Available on mobile gadgets, desktops, savvy TVs, and other connected gadgets.
- Premium Subscription: Offers premium highlights like ad-free tuning in and offline playback.
Best For
Fans of live music and select access to concerts, celebrations, and behind-the-scenes of film.
Pricing
- LiveOne Plus: $39.99/year
- LiveOne Premium: $10.99/month
8. Apple Music
Apple Music, which was launched in June 2015, is a streaming service provided on paid subscription basis and which has a catalogue of over 100 million tracks. It includes special playlists, premiers, and superior audio engineering elements such as Dolby Atmos and lossless audio.
Apple Music integrates with Siri for voice commands and Apple devices, making it convenient for iOS users. The service also offers access to live radio stations like Apple Music 1 and custom playlists based on user preferences.
Key Features
- Extensive Music Library: Access to over 100 million tunes, along side exclusive content and releases.
- High-Quality Audio: Offers lossless sound and Dolby Atmos for upgraded sound quality.
- Curated Playlists: Personalised playlists based on user inclinations and handpicked by music experts.
- Live Radio Stations: Includes 24/7 live radio like Apple Music 1, featuring exclusive shows and interviews.
- Integration with Apple Devices: Seamlessly integrates with iOS devices and Siri for voice-controlled playback.
- Offline Listening: Allows premium users to download music for offline access.
Best For
Apple users who want seamless integration with their devices and high-quality audio features like Dolby Atmos.
Pricing
- Individual: ₹99/month
- Student: ₹59/month
- Family: ₹149/month
9. Amazon Music
Amazon Music is among the comprehensive music streaming service that offers millions of songs, podcasts and exclusive albums to stream. Amazon Music is a service that has three levels: Basic, Pro, and Elite, with the Prime and Unlimited versions supporting additional features and options compared to Free.
The platform supports high-definition and spatial sound, guaranteeing a premium listening experience. It’s also deeply integrated with Alexa, making voice-activated commands easy for smart device users.
Key Features
- Vast Library: Access to over 100 million songs, including exclusive releases and a wide selection of podcasts.
- Multiple Tiers: Offers free, Prime, and Unlimited subscriptions, catering to various user needs.
- High-Definition & Spatial Audio: Gives HD and Ultra HD sound, as well as spatial sound for immersive listening.
- Alexa Integration: Consistently coordinates with Alexa for hands-free control on savvy gadgets.
- Personalised Playlists: Curated playlists and suggestions based on user preferences.
- Offline Listening: Premium users can download music for offline playback.
Best For
Amazon Prime members or users who prefer Alexa integration for voice-controlled, hands-free music streaming.
Pricing
- Free
- Prime Members: $9.99/month and annually for $99/year
- Non-prime Members: $10.99/month
10. Qobuz
Qobuz is a music streaming service that streams audio in studio quality, often dubbed as HD versions.
Qobuz was founded in France in 2007 and offers high-quality sound and deep metadata for the music to audiophiles. It provides a streaming and download feature which comes with over 100 million tracks in HD and Hi-Res.
Qobuz also has columns on album and artist profiles, which gives a boutique feel and expert opinions and information.
Key Features
- Studio-Quality Sound: Offers lossless sound and Hi-Res tracks for premium sound quality.
- Music Metadata: Gives detailed data on albums, tracks, and artists, including surveys and interviews.
- Offline Mode: Permits users to download tracks and albums for offline tuning in.
- Vast Library: Access to over 100 million tracks in different genres, all in high-definition designs.
- Curated Playlists: Handpicked playlists made by music experts for diverse tastes and moods.
- Purchase Option: Users can purchase and download high-resolution albums and tracks.
Best For
Audiophiles who prioritise high-resolution audio and detailed music metadata in their listening experience.
Pricing
- Studio: $10.83/month
- Studio quality streaming
- Over 100 million tracks
- Original editorial content
- Offline listening
- Sublime: $14.99/month
- Studio quality streaming
- Over 100 million tracks
- Original editorial content
- Offline listening
- Discounts on Hi-Res purchases of up to 60%
11. TuneIn
TuneIn is an application for internet radio and podcast with live real-time streaming of radio, music, news, programs and podcasts around the globe. TuneIn was propelled in 2002 and offers conversations, music, news, talk shows, sports events, and podcasts.
TuneIn is most suitable for individuals trying to find an assorted range of sound content, with its offering of over 100,000 live radio stations and millions of podcasts.
They can be found on different platforms, including versatile apps, savvy speakers, and desktop computers.
Key Features
- Live Radio: Get to to over 100,000 live radio stations, covering music, news, sports, and more.
- Podcasts: A huge library of millions of podcasts over different genres.
- Customisable Stations: Users can make personalised stations based on their favourite appears or points.
- Cross-Platform Access: Accessible on mobile gadgets, desktops, savvy speakers, and connected cars.
- News & Sports: Gives live news broadcasts and sports scope, including major occasions and games.
- Premium Option: Offers an ad-free version with access to exclusive content and features.
Best For
Radio enthusiasts and podcast lovers who appreciate a varying blend of live broadcasts and on-demand content.
Pricing
- Free Version
- Amazon Prime Members: $7.49/month
- Non-prime Members: $9.99/month
12. SoundCloud
SoundCloud is known for its focus on free and emerging artists within the music streaming world. Introduced in 2008, SoundCloud empowers people to upload, advertise, and distribute their own music, establishing itself as a sanctuary for independent artists and underground tunes.
It offers an enormous library of over 300 million tracks, including remixes, live performances, and DJ sets. Customers have the choice to use either the free form or upgrade to the premium form, which incorporates extra features such as offline tuning and ad-free browsing.
Key Features
- User-Generated Content: Permits artists to upload their own music, making it a hub for indie and underground ability.
- Massive Track Library: Access to over 300 million tracks, including remixes, live sets, and interesting versions.
- Interactive Community: Users can comment on tracks, share music, and take after artists for a more intelligently experience.
- Free & Premium Options: Offers a free adaptation with ads and premium subscriptions with extra features like offline playback.
- Custom Playlists: Make and share custom playlists with a blend of free and mainstream tracks.
- Cross-Platform Access: Accessible on mobile gadgets, desktops, and smart speakers.
Best For
Independent artists and listeners who enjoy discovering new, underground, and emerging music across various genres.
Pricing
- Next: Free
- 3 hours of uploads
- Share private tracks with collaborators
- Post public tracks and hear from fans
- Basic audience insights
- Next Pro: $8.25/month, billed yearly for $99
- Unlimited uploads
- Unlimited promotion
- Unlimited distribution and monetization
- Unlimited replaceable tracks without losing stats
- 3 mastering credits per month
- Audience stats and insights
- Community management tools
Conclusion
Choosing the best music streaming service ultimately depends on personal preferences, such as sound quality, music library size, exclusive content, or personalised suggestions. Whether you’re an audiophile looking for high-definition audio or a casual listener who appreciates curated playlists, there are plenty of options accessible to suit various needs. Numerous platforms offer flexible subscription models, permitting users to experience premium features like offline listening and ad-free music. As streaming continues to evolve, these services will undoubtedly introduce new features, improving the way we discover and enjoy music across devices and platforms worldwide.
FAQs
Are music streaming services free?
Most services offer free versions with ads, but premium subscriptions provide ad-free experiences and additional features.
Can I download songs for offline listening?
Yes, many services allow offline downloads for premium subscribers, enabling music playback without internet access.
Do all streaming platforms offer the same music?
No, some platforms have exclusive content, including albums, singles, and live performances, that others may not have.
