In today’s digital age, music streaming services have revolutionized how we consume music, presenting an ocean of choices right at our fingertips. These platforms offer an abundance of songs, curated playlists, podcasts, and exclusive content designed to cater to diverse musical tastes and lifestyle needs. This blog post aims to navigate the myriad of music streaming options available, highlighting the top services, their unique features, pros and cons, and who they’re best suited for. Whether you’re an Apple user, a podcast enthusiast, or someone seeking lossless audio, there’s a music streaming service that fits your needs.
Table of Contents
1. [Our Top Tested Picks](#top-picks) 1. [Apple Music](#apple-music) 2. [LiveOne](#liveone) 3. [Spotify](#spotify) 4. [SiriusXM Internet Radio](#siriusxm) 5. [Tidal](#tidal) 6. [Amazon Music Unlimited](#amazon-music) 7. [Deezer](#deezer) 8. [Qobuz](#qobuz) 9. [YouTube Music](#youtube-music) 10. [Idagio](#idagio) 11. [iHeartRadio](#iheartradio) 12. [Pandora](#pandora) 3. [Best for Apple Device Integration](#best-apple-devices) 1. [Apple Music](#apple-music-best) 4. [Best for Curated Channels](#liveone-best) 1. [LiveOne](#liveone-best) 5. [Best for Podcasts](#spotify-best) 1. [Spotify](#spotify-best) 6. [Best for Satellite Radio](#siriusxm-best) 1. [SiriusXM Internet Radio](#siriusxm-best) 7. [Best for Music-Related Extras](#tidal-best) 1. [Tidal](#tidal-best) 8. [Best for Amazon Device Integration](#amazon-music-best) 1. [Amazon Music Unlimited](#amazon-music-best) 9. [Best for MP3 Uploads](#deezer-best) 1. [Deezer](#deezer-best) 10. [Best for Hi-Res Audio](#qobuz-best) 1. [Qobuz](#qobuz-best) 11. [Best for Former Google Play Music Subscribers](#youtube-music-best) 1. [YouTube Music](#youtube-music-best) 12. [Best for Live, Classical Music Concerts](#idagio-best) 1. [Idagio](#idagio-best) 13. [Best for Terrestrial Radio](#iheartradio-best) 1. [iHeartRadio](#iheartradio-best) 14. [Best for Free Listening](#pandora-best) 1. [Pandora](#pandora-best) 15. [The Best Music Streaming Quality](#best-quality) 16. [The Best Free Music Streaming Services](#best-free-services) 17. [Which Streaming Service Has the Best Music?](#best-music) 1. [Recommended by Our Editors](#editors) 18. [The Right Music Streaming Service for You](#right-service)
Our Top Tested Picks
Apple Music
Apple Music offers an extensive library with seamless integration across Apple devices, featuring exclusive content and curated playlists. The service supports high-quality streaming and offline listening. However, Apple Music lacks a free tier and can be complex for users new to the Apple ecosystem. It’s ideal for those heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem looking to enhance their music experience.
LiveOne
LiveOne, formerly known as LiveXLive, is renowned for its curated channels and live streaming concerts. With a wide range of genres and unique signature series, it’s perfect for music discovery. The con is that customization may not be as deep as with other platforms. LiveOne excels for those who enjoy curated music experiences and live performances.
Spotify
Spotify remains a market leader, famed for its robust library, user-friendly interface, and exceptional podcast offerings. It offers free and premium tiers and strong social features. On the downside, premium is required for an ad-free experience and better audio quality. Spotify suits music lovers who also enjoy podcasts and social sharing.
SiriusXM Internet Radio
SiriusXM is best known for its widespread satellite radio service, translating well into its internet radio offering. It provides a vast array of channels including exclusive talk, music, and sports stations. Its high cost and occasional audio dropouts are cons. Best for those wanting the satellite radio experience on various devices.
Tidal
Tidal stands out with high-quality audio and music-related extras like exclusive videos and editorial content. It’s favored by audiophiles and artists for its superior stream quality. Cons include its higher subscription costs. Tidal is ideal for those who prioritize audio quality and exclusive content.
Amazon Music Unlimited
Amazon Music Unlimited offers an extensive catalog with impressive integration with Amazon devices. Options for high-quality audio streaming and personalized recommendations exist. A potential con is its user interface, which can be less intuitive than competitors. Suitable for users invested in the Amazon ecosystem seeking broad music access.
Deezer
Deezer features a rich music catalog and the unique ability for MP3 uploads. Its “Flow” feature provides dynamic music recommendations based on listening habits. A con is that its user interface can be cluttered. Deezer is great for those looking to mix personal music collections with streaming.
Qobuz
Qobuz specializes in hi-res audio streaming, perfect for audiophiles. It provides a comprehensive library with exceptional sound clarity and extensive album liner notes. However, it’s more expensive than many competitors. It’s ideal for purists who value audio fidelity and detailed album information.
YouTube Music
YouTube Music is a natural choice for former Google Play Music subscribers. It offers a rich library and the unique inclusion of video content, enhancing music discovery. The con is that video can sometimes detract from music streaming focus. Best for those invested in the Google ecosystem and looking for video integration.
Idagio
Idagio is a standout for classical music lovers, focusing exclusively on this genre with live concert streams and curated playlists. Its quality streaming and vast library cater to classical enthusiasts. Its niche focus may be a drawback for some. It aims at those specific to classical music listening and seeking high-quality streams.
iHeartRadio
iHeartRadio connects terrestrial radio with digital convenience. It offers access to a myriad of live radio stations and podcasts, ensuring wide-ranging content availability. Cons include regional content limitations. Best for those who enjoy traditional radio in a digital format.
Pandora
Pandora is ideal for users seeking free, personalized music streaming. Its “Music Genome Project” offers personalized station creation, perfect for discovering new artists. However, the free tier includes ads, and the song skipping limit can be irksome. Perfect for those looking for a free, personalized radio experience.
Best for Apple Device Integration
Apple Music
Apple Music shines with seamless integration for Apple devices, offering an extensive library and high-quality streams. Its family plan supports up to six users, enhancing its value for families.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Excellent device integration, curated playlists, high-quality audio. Cons: No free tier, complex for non-Apple users.
Why We Picked It
Apple Music is the go-to for iPhone, iPad, iWatch, and Mac users. Exclusive content and robust audio quality make it stand out.
Who It’s For
Apple users looking to integrate their music experience across all devices.
Specs & Configurations
Plans: Individual ($9.99/month), Family ($14.99/month), Student ($4.99/month). Audio Quality: Up to 24-bit/192 kHz (Lossless). Free Trial: 3 months.
Best for Curated Channels
LiveOne
LiveOne specializes in expertly curated channels and live streaming concerts, offering a unique music discovery experience. Its Signature Series features handpicked tracks from celebrities and artists.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Curated channels, live concerts, unique content. Cons: Limited customization, can be pricey.
Why We Picked It
Standing out for its live music offerings and curated experiences, LiveOne offers a refreshing alternative to algorithm-driven platforms.
Who It’s For
Music lovers seeking curated content and live performances.
Specs & Configurations
Plans: Free Tier, Premium ($3.99/month), and Plus ($9.99/month). Audio Quality: Standard. Free Trial: 7 days.
Best for Podcasts
Spotify
Spotify remains the top choice for music and podcast enthusiasts. With its enormous library and exclusive podcast content, it provides both music and talk fans with endless entertainment.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Extensive library, excellent podcasts, user-friendly interface. Cons: Ads in free tier, higher quality locked behind paywall.
Why We Picked It
Spotify’s dominance in both music streaming and podcasts makes it a versatile choice for consuming audio content.
Who It’s For
Music listeners who also enjoy a wide variety of podcasts.
Specs & Configurations
Plans: Free tier, Spotify Premium ($9.99/month). Audio Quality: Up to 320 kbps. Free Trial: 30 days.
Best for Satellite Radio
SiriusXM Internet Radio
SiriusXM offers an internet version of its popular satellite radio service, delivering a wealth of channels from music to news and sports.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Diverse channel selection, exclusive content, wide availability. Cons: Higher cost, possible audio drops.
Why We Picked It
Translating the satellite radio experience to the internet, SiriusXM offers exclusive content and a broad range of channels.
Who It’s For
Listeners who appreciate the variety and exclusivity of satellite radio content.
Specs & Configurations
Plans: Essential Streaming ($8/month), Premium Streaming ($13/month). Audio Quality: Standard. Free Trial: 30 days.
Best for Music-Related Extras
Tidal
Tidal is favored for its Hi-Fi audio and additional features like music videos, exclusive content, and artist interviews, making it more than just a music streaming service.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Hi-Fi audio quality, exclusive content, music videos. Cons: Higher subscription cost.
Why We Picked It
Tidal brings more to the table with Hi-Fi audio quality and additional media content, appealing to those seeking a richer music experience.
Who It’s For
Audiophiles and music enthusiasts looking for high-quality streams and exclusive media.
Specs & Configurations
Plans: Premium ($9.99/month), Hi-Fi ($19.99/month). Audio Quality: Up to 24-bit, 96 kHz. Free Trial: 30 days.
Best for Amazon Device Integration
Amazon Music Unlimited
Amazon Music Unlimited excels in its integration with Amazon devices, providing a comprehensive music library and personalized recommendations.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Seamless Amazon device integration, vast library, high-quality audio. Cons: User interface can be less intuitive.
Why We Picked It
Its seamless integration with Amazon Echo and other devices makes Amazon Music Unlimited a top choice for Amazon ecosystem users.
Who It’s For
Amazon device users who want a comprehensive and high-quality streaming service.
Specs & Configurations
Plans: Individual ($9.99/month), Family ($14.99/month), Single Device ($3.99/month), Student ($4.99/month). Audio Quality: Up to HD/Ultra HD. Free Trial: 4 months.
Best for MP3 Uploads
Deezer
Deezer combines a vast music library with the unique ability to upload MP3s, offering personalized recommendations through its “Flow” feature.
Pros & Cons
Pros: MP3 uploads, dynamic “Flow” recommendations. Cons: Cluttered interface.
Why We Picked It
Deezer’s support for personal music uploads and strong music discovery features make it a versatile choice.
Who It’s For
Users wanting to combine streaming with their personal music collections.
Specs & Configurations
Plans: Free tier, Premium ($9.99/month), Family ($14.99/month). Audio Quality: High definition. Free Trial: 30 days.
Best for Hi-Res Audio
Qobuz
Qobuz shines with its focus on hi-res audio streaming and detailed album information, perfect for audiophiles.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Hi-res audio, extensive album details. Cons: Higher price point.
Why We Picked It
Qobuz offers the best in sound quality and caters to those who value extra album details and liner notes.
Who It’s For
Listeners who demand the highest audio quality.
Specs & Configurations
Plans: Studio Premier ($14.99/month), Studio Sublime ($249.99/year). Audio Quality: Up to 24-bit/192 kHz. Free Trial: 1 month.
Best for Former Google Play Music Subscribers
YouTube Music
YouTube Music took over from Google Play Music, offering extensive music options along with videos and personalized playlists.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Video integration, personalized playlists. Cons: Ads in free version, video focus can detract from listening experience.
Why We Picked It
YouTube Music provides a smooth transition for former Google Play Music users with added benefits of video content.
Who It’s For
Google users looking for a music service with video capabilities.
Specs & Configurations
Plans: Free tier, Premium ($9.99/month). Audio Quality: Standard. Free Trial: 1 month.
Best for Live, Classical Music Concerts
Idagio
Idagio specializes exclusively in classical music, providing a comprehensive library and high-quality live concert streams.
Pros & Cons
Pros: High-quality streams, comprehensive classical library. Cons: Niche focus.
Why We Picked It
Idagio fills the gap for classical music lovers with its extensive offerings and concert streams.
Who It’s For
Classical music enthusiasts looking for a focused streaming service.
Specs & Configurations
Plans: Free tier, Premium ($9.99/month), Premium Plus ($12.99/month). Audio Quality: CD Quality (Premium+). Free Trial: 14 days.
Best for Terrestrial Radio
iHeartRadio
iHeartRadio merges traditional radio with streaming, offering access to live radio stations and a myriad of podcasts.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Wide range of live radio, digital convenience. Cons: Regional limitations.
Why We Picked It
For those who enjoy traditional radio formats, iHeartRadio brings vast channel options to the digital world.
Who It’s For
Listeners who prefer terrestrial radio formats with digital flexibility.
Specs & Configurations
Plans: Free tier, iHeartRadio Plus ($4.99/month), iHeartRadio All Access ($9.99/month). Audio Quality: Standard. Free Trial: 30 days.
Best for Free Listening
Pandora
Pandora offers a unique “Music Genome Project” to create personalized stations, a great option for free, tailor-made listening experiences.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Free tier, personalized stations. Cons: Ads and skip limitations in free version.
Why We Picked It
Pandora’s approach to music discovery through personalized stations is unmatched for a free tier service.
Who It’s For
Listeners looking for a free and personalized music discovery experience.
Specs & Configurations
Plans: Free tier, Pandora Plus ($4.99/month), Pandora Premium ($9.99/month). Audio Quality: Standard. Free Trial: 30 days.
The Best Music Streaming Quality
When it comes to music streaming quality, Tidal and Qobuz are the undisputed leaders. Both offer high-resolution audio streaming, which is essential for audiophiles seeking the best audio experience. While Tidal offers up to 24-bit, 96 kHz quality, Qobuz takes it a step further with up to 24-bit/192 kHz streaming. For ordinary users, services like Amazon Music Unlimited and Apple Music also offer impressive high-quality audio options.
The Best Free Music Streaming Services
For those looking to enjoy music without spending a dime, Spotify, Pandora, and YouTube Music offer robust free-tier options. Spotify provides a vast library and great user experience, though it comes with ad interruptions. Pandora shines with its personalized stations, but similarly features ads and limited skips. YouTube Music provides the additional benefit of video content, albeit also with ads in the free version.
Which Streaming Service Has the Best Music?