Spotify is a popular music platform, offering a wide range of genres. However, it also has some restrictions. Especially for free users, do you feel frustrated when the ads keep interrupting your listening experience? Here we will recommend some Spotify alternatives.
Whether you want to unlock more features or pursue better audio quality, we get you covered. Dive into this guide and explore the rhythm with more music apps like Spotify.
Top Spotify Alternatives for Different Devices
Apple Music
For iOS users, Apple Music could be the first option for music platforms. In addition, it also supports the Android system if you have an Apple ID. Spotify vs Apple Music: Apple Music stands out for its extensive music collection, covering different genres including pop, country, rock, and hip-hop. Especially for classic music enthusiasts, Apple Music is your top pick.
Pros:
- Abundant music library covering 100 million songs.
- Lossless streaming experience.
- Longer free trials for Apple device users, up to 6 months.
- Get access to Apple Music Radio.
Cons:
- The fundamental features require a subscription, including listening or offline downloading.
- Some regions might not be able to access Apple Music or certain features.
Pricing:
Individual: $10.99 per month
Student: $5.99 per month
Family: $16.99 per month
Tip: To know more about Apple Music pricing details, check out this guide: Apple Music Cost Explained: Plans, Pricing and Free Trial.
Tidal
Tidal stands out for its excellent audio fidelity, you will never miss a detail of the music arrangement. Users can enjoy a lossless format including Dolby Atmos, HiRes FLAC, and Sony 360 reality audio. Apart from that, if you want apps like Spotify with a rich music collection, Tidal can also meet your needs. It has over 110 million tracks, featuring multiple music styles.
Pros:
- Simple interface.
- Friendly for independent artists.
- Exclusive music live sessions, you can interact with DJs in real-time.
- High audio quality, support Dolby Atmos and FLAC.
Cons:
- Restricted social features.
- Certain songs are not available due to regional limitations.
Pricing:
Individual: $10.99 per month
Student: $5.49 per month
Family: $16.99 per month
A DJ extension add-on for Individual and Student plans: an additional $9 per month
YouTube Music
More than a Spotify alternative for Android and iOS, you can also download YouTube Music on your laptop and smart TV. You can find almost all the audio resources uploaded on YouTube, such as official tracks, remixes, or fan upload lives.
Since it was developed by YouTube, what you browse on this platform is highly relevant to your YouTube account. The song recommendation mechanism might be different, while other platforms are more based on your music preferences.
Read more: YouTube Music vs Spotify: Which One is Right for You?
Pros:
- Massive music resources, including unofficial tracks.
- Personalized recommendations related to your YouTube history.
- Combines audio and video.
- Suitable for YouTube Premium users.
Cons:
- Average audio quality, about 256kbps AAC & OPUS.
- Ad-free experience only for YouTube Music Premium.
Pricing:
Individual: $10.99 per month
Student: $5.49 per month
Family: $16.99 per month
Amazon Music
Compared to other Spotify competitors, Amazon Music Unlimited still stands out for its abundant music library with an affordable subscription plan. Capture every detail during the recording, Amazon Music matches Tidal’s audio performance. If you already are an Amazon Prime member, you can enjoy ad-free listening and even get a discount.
Pros:
- A free version is available.
- Covers about 100 million songs.
- Better than CD-quality audio.
- Compatibility with Alexa-enabled devices.
Cons:
- Regional Restrictions.
- Clunky user interface.
Pricing:
Amazon Music Unlimited: $11.99 per month ($10.99 per month for Prime members)
Student: $5.99 per month
Family: $19.99 per month
Tip:
If you want to bypass regional restrictions, try LightningX VPN. It covers more than 70 countries, you can easily change your IP address. You can use it to unblock regional exclusive content. The fast speed ensures a seamless connection.
Compatible with phones, tablets, computers, browsers, and smart TVs, LightningX VPN is very convenient to use. Download now you can also enjoy a free trial.
NetEase Cloud Music:
Pros:
- Wide-ranging music collection including Chinese songs.
- Offer a free version, you can download songs without a subscription.
- Emphasize social interaction. It allows you to communicate with other users.
- Support independent artists.
Cons:
- Chinese is the only available language.
- Some non-Chinese songs might be restricted on this platform.
Pricing:
Annual premium subscription: ¥178 RMB (around $27)
For Chinese music audiences, NetEase Cloud Music is a good alternative to Spotify. Including Chinese singers and musicians from all over the world, it offers a diverse music library.
Similar to Spotify, you can also enjoy podcasts, and audiobooks on NetEase Cloud Music. However, be aware that NetEase Cloud Music doesn’t have an English version currently.
Best Free Spotify Alternatives
SoundCloud: If you are looking for a music community, don’t miss out on SoundCloud. It allows users to upload and share audio. A good place to find the hidden gems and independent artists
Audius: It’s a community-run platform, offering a completely free listening experience without any ad. Artists and audiences can interact with each other.
Jamendo: You can download songs freely on Jamendo. In addition, artists can sell the commercial licenses of their work for business purposes. Make sure artists can get the appropriate remuneration.
How to Choose the Best Alternative to Spotify?
Music library: Whether you prefer hot pop songs or indie music, a wide range of music collections can satisfy all your needs.
Audio quality: Aside from the hardware capabilities of your headphones, the higher sound resolution ensures a better listening experience.
Cost: An affordable price is crucial. The service should make you feel worth the cost of the subscription.
Device compatibility: Apart from the common device support, people might want to enjoy music in other circumstances. If a music app supports CarPlay like Spotify, it could be very convenient.
Additional features: Like podcasts or audiobooks, some exclusive content can attract more audience.
Warp Up
Select one of the best Spotify alternatives and begin your new music journey now.
