Choosing between Apple Music and Spotify can be challenging, given their wide range of features and extensive music libraries.
Both services offer over 100 million songs and are considered among the best in the music streaming industry.
However, their differences in pricing, sound quality, compatibility, and additional features can help you decide which is the better fit for your needs.
Music Library
Both Apple Music and Spotify offer over 100 million songs. Fans of radio channels will find popular stations on both platforms, along with curated annual playlists and personalized recommendations.
However, Spotify leads with its vast podcast collection, adding significant value for subscribers. Spotify’s recommendation system also tends to provide a superior listening experience.
Winner: Spotify
Sound Quality
In basic settings, both services use the AAC codec for decent audio quality. Spotify’s premium plans offer higher bit-rates for better quality.
Apple Music, however, offers lossless and Hi-Res lossless quality, allowing for greater detail if you have the supporting hardware.
Winner: Apple Music
Compatibility
Both services are accessible on most major platforms. However, Spotify integrates seamlessly with smart voice assistants and smart speakers across non-Apple platforms, making it ideal for users with a variety of devices.
Apple Music’s integration is best within the Apple ecosystem but lacks benefits for non-Apple devices.
Winner: Spotify
Pricing
Spotify offers several premium plans:
- Premium: $11.99/month (was $10.99/month)
- Duo: $16.99/month (was $14.99/month)
- Family: $19.99/month (was $16.99/month)
These plans provide benefits like unlimited skips, offline downloads, and higher-quality streaming. Spotify also offers a free tier with ads and limited features.
Apple Music does not offer a free tier but provides a limited-time free trial. Subscriptions start at $10.99/month. Apple Music is also available to Apple One members.
Winner: Spotify
Spotify vs Apple Music: Which is better?
Spotify edges out Apple Music with its curated playlists, vast podcast library, affordable pricing, and cross-platform compatibility.
However, if high-quality audio and seamless integration with Apple devices are your priorities, Apple Music is the better choice.
Spotify vs Apple Music: Comparison Table
| Feature | Apple Music | Spotify |
|---|---|---|
| Music Library | 100+ million songs | 100+ million songs + Podcasts |
| Sound Quality | AAC, Lossless, Hi-Res Lossless | AAC, higher bit-rates |
| Compatibility | Best with Apple ecosystem | Cross-platform, smart devices |
| Pricing | No free tier, $10.99/month | Free tier available, $11.99/month (Premium), $16.99/month (Duo), $19.99/month (Family) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which one is cheaper: Apple Music or Spotify?
Spotify offers a free tier and its Premium plan is $11.99/month, compared to Apple Music’s $10.99/month.
Which has a higher song count: Apple Music or Spotify?
Both services offer over 100 million songs.
Does Apple Music offer podcasts?
No, Apple Music does not offer podcasts. Spotify has a vast collection of podcasts.
Which service offers better sound quality?
Apple Music offers better sound quality with lossless and Hi-Res lossless options.
Which service is better integrated with non-Apple devices?
Spotify integrates better with non-Apple devices and offers seamless control with smart voice assistants and smart speakers.
Happy Listening!
