Spotify vs. Apple Music: Which Music Streaming Service is Better in 2025

Spotify vs. Apple Music is the discussion of the music market as these two are big music streaming apps. Both let you listen to millions of songs, but they have key differences. Spotify has a free version with ads. It’s great for discovering new music with smart playlists like Discover Weekly. You can also share playlists and play music on many devices. Apple Music works best with iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks. It has no free version but offers better sound quality and exclusive content. It also has live radio shows and artist interviews. Spotify is best for music discovery and free streaming. Apple Music is better for sound quality and Apple users. Both have similar prices, but Apple offers extra deals with Apple One.

Spotify and Apple Music are two of the most popular music streaming services. They both offer millions of songs and great features, but they are different in many ways. This article will compare them based on key features to help you decide which one is best for you.

1: Music Library and Content:

Both services offer a huge library of music, but with some differences:

• Spotify has over 100 million songs and includes podcasts and audiobooks. It’s great for discovering new music with personalized playlists.
• Apple Music also has over 100 million songs. It stands out with exclusive content like live radio shows, artist interviews, and early album releases.
• If you want to discover new music easily, Spotify is better. If you like exclusive content, Apple Music may be for you.

2: Sound Quality:

Sound quality matters for many music lovers:

• Spotify offers a maximum bitrate of 320 kbps for premium users. It has good sound quality, but a HiFi tier is expected soon.
• Apple Music offers lossless audio and Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos for better sound quality, especially for audiophiles.
• If sound quality is important, Apple Music is the better choice.

3: Free vs. Paid Plans:

• Spotify vs. Apple Music is also discussed in terms of their payment plans. Both have different plans and offerings.
• Spotify offers a free plan with ads and limited features. You can also upgrade to a paid plan.
• Apple Music doesn’t have a free plan, but it offers a free trial for new users.
• If you want a free plan, Spotify is the best option. If you’re willing to pay for better quality, both services offer similar pricing.

4: Music Discovery and Playlists:

Both platforms help you discover new music:

• Spotify has smart playlists like Discover Weekly and Release Radar, which suggest music based on your listening habits.
• Apple Music offers curated playlists from human editors but doesn’t have the same level of personalized recommendations as Spotify.
• If you like personalized music suggestions, Spotify is the better choice.

5: User Interface and Experience:

How easy is it to use the app?

• Spotify has a simple and easy-to-use interface. It’s easy to navigate and find music.
• Apple Music has a clean design that works well with Apple devices. It’s also easy to use, but some features may be harder to find compared to Spotify.
• If you want a simple experience, Spotify is easier. If you use Apple devices, Apple Music works well within that ecosystem.

6: Offline Listening and Downloads:

• Both services allow you to download music for offline listening. Lets compare Spotify vs. Apple Music in terms of music downloading and offline listening.
• Spotify lets premium users download music and playlists for offline listening. Free users don’t have this option.
• Apple Music lets all users with a subscription download songs for offline listening.
• If offline listening is important to you, both services have it, but you need a paid plan for both.

7: Podcasts and Extra Content:

Podcasts are a popular feature, and both services handle them differently:

• Spotify has a huge library of podcasts, including exclusive shows.
• Apple Music does not offer podcasts, but you can use Apple Podcasts for that.
• If you want podcasts and music in one place, Spotify is the better choice.

8: Device Compatibility:

• When it comes comparison of Spotify vs. Apple Music in terms of device compatibility then Spotify takes the lead.
• Spotify is available on iOS, Android, Windows, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and more. It also supports Spotify Connect for seamless playback.
• Apple Music works best with Apple devices but is also available on Android and Windows.
• If you want cross-platform compatibility, Spotify is better. If you use Apple devices, Apple Music is a great choice.

9: Social Features:

Sharing music is fun, and both services allow you to do that:

• Spotify lets you follow friends, share playlists, and see what others are listening to.
• Apple Music allows you to share playlists and follow artists but has fewer social features.
• If you enjoy sharing music with friends, Spotify is the better option.

10: Smart Assistant and Voice Control:

Voice control is an important feature for many users:

• Spotify works with Google Assistant, Alexa, and Siri.
• Apple Music is fully integrated with Siri.
• If you use Siri, Apple Music is better. If you use Google Assistant or Alexa, Spotify works well with those.

Here’s a quick look at the pricing for both services:

Plan	Spotify Premium	Apple Music
Free Version	✅ Yes (with ads)	❌ No
Individual Plan	$10.99/month	$10.99/month
Family Plan	$16.99/month	$16.99/month
Student Plan	$5.99/month	$5.99/month
Bundle Option	❌ No	✅ Yes (Apple One)

Both Services have similar pricing, but Apple Music offers extra value with Apple One bundles.

Both Spotify and Apple Music are great, but it depends on what you need:

Spotify vs. Apple Music is an evergreen debate that is adding new aspects with the time. Both Spotify and Apple Music are great options, but they suit different needs. Spotify is best if you want to discover new music and enjoy personalized playlists. It has a free plan and works on many devices. It’s also easy to share music with friends. Apple Music is better if you care about sound quality. It offers lossless audio and Spatial Audio for a richer listening experience. It also works well with Apple devices and has exclusive content. If you want to discover music and need a free plan, Spotify is a great choice. If you want better sound and use Apple devices, Apple Music is for you. Both are awesome, so it depends on what you prefer.