Best Music Streaming Services

I agree. It can be difficult to choose just one premium music streaming service these days because there are so many. Sure, if you’re very flush with cash, you could subscribe to as many as you want and switch between them whenever you want. However, the majority of us are not so fortunate. For the most part, we can only afford one. That’s why, with so many music streaming services to select from, it’s critical that we pick the appropriate one!

Personally, I believe that having so many options is a fantastic thing. Isn’t abundance the best problem you could possibly have? With so many music streaming services, each with its own unique features and genres of music, we can only expect more excellence; more options, in other words, usually imply higher quality. The greater the number of streaming services available, the more competitive they become. And when businesses enter into a heated competition with one another, the consumer always comes out on top.

However, I do not believe that is such an easy matter. I don’t think it’s easy to say, “Well, this music streaming service is by far the finest.” Are some clearly superior to others? That is without a doubt true… no one would ever argue with that. Is it true that some have considerably greater libraries of music, artists, and albums from which to choose? Certainly. Is there a list of musicians who can only be found on certain platforms? Unfortunately, this is correct. There are a lot of aspects to consider while choosing the finest music streaming service, as it turns out.

However, I believe it would be a mistake to try to locate the finest music streaming services in such black-and-white terms. Instead, I often encourage people to ask themselves, which music streaming service appears to be the best fit for me? To put it another way, each platform takes a slightly different approach – different designs, different modes of playback and song curation, different features, different dominant genres – the trick is to do some research and see which, among the many kinds of music streaming services, has everything you’re looking for in terms of streaming music.

Spotify, for example, is my go-to music service. It’s dependable, I like the intuitive nature of the design (though I’m getting irritated by how frequently and drastically they change their interface), they have an extremely solid library of music to choose from, they allow for infinite playlist creation, and my favorite aspect of Spotify is the highly personalized music suggestions, playlists created using complex algorithms and the way you can really dive into a genre, as well as discover new tunes that you might not have heard of before. Spotify delivers a completely individualized listening experience that, in my opinion, is unmatched by any other music streaming site.

Others, though, including some of my friends and coworkers, swear by Tidal. It’s a little more expensive than Spotify or YouTube Music, for example, but they argue that the few extra bucks each month are definitely worth it. Tidal’s most expensive subscription (Tidal Hi-Fi) includes lossless streaming, live-streamed concerts and events, and access to exclusive titles (sometimes, for instance, Tidal users have access to albums a week before their official release date). As I already stated, it all boils down to what you desire in the end.

What is the highest quality music I can listen to on the finest music streaming services?

Again, this is entirely dependent on the music streaming service you choose. With its lossless playback, Tidal is frequently lauded as one of the best out there for listeners with an ear for superb sound quality. If you’re a finicky audiophile with a decent ear, Qobuz is another streaming service to check out — they’re also recognized for their flawless bitrates.

Even Spotify, despite the fact that it is not the app’s default setting, allows for high-quality streaming. You can rapidly toggle the sound quality from “normal” to “high-quality,” which plays tunes at an astonishing 320 kbps, by going into settings. In contrast, the default setting is 160 kbps (which, honestly, as a musician myself, I have never noticed any issues with).

As a result, music streaming services offer a diverse range of qualities. Check out my reviews for Tidal and Qobuz if the quality is your top priority (and you don’t mind paying a little more per month to get it). I believe you will be pleased with what you see. Otherwise, I’ve compiled a lengthy list of music streaming services for your consideration. If the average quality isn’t too much of a deterrent.

How much will I have to pay for a membership each month?

Once again, it is entirely dependent on the music streaming service you choose. There are some that are more expensive than others, of course. However, if you are a true music fan, the greatest music streaming service on the market is likely something you are willing to spend money on. However, the price you spend will ultimately be determined by what you expect from the service.

As far as I’m concerned, Spotify is the industry standard. They were not only one of the first services to truly dominate this market, but they have also regularly provided a high-quality subscription for many years. Spotify will set you back roughly $10 per month (with a family plan option available if you want to share with others and save some money).

Tidal also offers a $10/month membership, but you won’t be able to enjoy the coveted Hi-Fi streaming experience. You’ll have to pay twice as much for Tidal’s complete premium version, which costs $19.95 per month. Qobuz will cost you almost the same amount.

However, there are lots more fermium music services, such as Band Camp and Sound Cloud – the offers may not be as extensive (or as pop-centric), but they are nonetheless fantastic communities of musicians and listeners. It’s also worth noting that almost every music streaming service today offers a free trial or a free version (ads and limitations included). So, if you’re undecided after reading over my list, you can always test out a few without risk or commitment.

Is there anything else I can do with these services but listen to music?

Certainly, In this day and age, every music streaming service worth its salt will also include a plethora of podcasts for you to enjoy. Furthermore, some provide amusing information about the making of specific songs, lyrics, music videos, live performances, music news, and so on. I don’t believe any of the music streaming sites on my list is just focused on music listening; each one has its own set of unique features and materials.

Furthermore, some of these music streaming services provide entertaining and novel methods to listen to and discover new music. As I previously said, Spotify provides a plethora of tailored playlists based on your listening preferences. However, Pandora, like the old days of radio, allows you to create personalized radio stations based on your favorite artists, songs, and albums. Every song aired is sonically similar to the one that your station is based on (in some way). Additionally, you may personalize a Pandora station by just giving a song a thumbs up or down.

What devices can I use to listen to music using these services?

All premium music streaming services will function with your device if it can download apps and connect to the internet. It makes no difference whether you use Android or iOS. One of the best things about music is that it has always been a mobile-friendly medium of art (at least since the introduction of the cassette). And, of course, in the age of mobile devices and tablets, this hasn’t altered in the least.

1. Spotify

If you’re not familiar with Spotify (or if you live under a rock without access to social media), Spotify wrapped is a special gift that the music streaming service gives to its users at the end of each year. They show you your own individualized yearly review in the form of your music and podcast listening habits using some extremely clever data mining techniques.

Because of the size of its music library, Spotify is a well-known streaming service. It’s massive. On Spotify, you can find almost everything. Sure, there are a few “difficult” artists who refuse to upload their music to Spotify, but the vast majority of musicians (both well-known and underground) have their full catalogs available.

Pros

Massive music collection
There are numerous podcasts available.
Personalized playlists are fantastic.
Make your own infinite playlists and discover heaps of new music
Use a browser extension, an app, or computer software.

Cons

Browser-based media player
Nothing at all!

Website URL: https://www.spotify.com/

2. YouTube

YouTube is a video-on-demand service that actually doesn’t need much of an introduction. With billions of active users and innumerable video submissions, YouTube is by far the largest video streaming network on the planet, and it continues to grow by the day (and even by the minute!). In some ways, YouTube may be considered the first video streaming website.

For over a decade, I’ve been browsing my browser to YouTube when I want to listen to music that I can’t locate on any of the other major music streaming sites… This is due to the fact that people (read: YouTube users) frequently rip and upload audio recordings as YouTube videos, making it available to anyone — be it a leak, an exclusive release, or anything else.

Pros

More than 30 million songs
The site and app are both beautifully designed.
Other platforms have been streamlined.
Lyrics and song descriptions can be used to narrow down your search.
Algorithms driven by intelligent AI

Cons

There isn’t enough unknown or independent music on YouTube. YouTube’s social components should be better integrated.

Website URL: https://music.youtube.com/

3. Sound Cloud

Sound Cloud is unlike any other music streaming service because it is mostly made up of musicians, producers, and DJs who network with one another and listen to each other’s music as frequently as they publish their own. It’s a streaming service that’s good for both fans and artists. And, to be honest, if you want to pursue a career in music, Sound Cloud will be a crucial site for you to have a presence on.

It has a global audience of 175 million monthly listeners and 75 million monthly subscribers. This is no minor accomplishment… especially for the music streaming business that focuses on lesser-known and emerging musicians. This spectacular rise to success has to be accomplished.

Pros

There are 165 million songs available (and growing)
All-in-one social network and music streaming service
There are a lot of indies and established artists.
A fantastic approach to advance your artistic career.
Adaptable to mobile devices (app)

Cons

The Pro edition of the cluttered site design is a little pricey.

Website URL: https://soundcloud.com/

4. Amazon Music Unlimited

Amazon Music Unlimited, formerly known as Amazon MP3, is a new and improved version of Amazon’s original music streaming service. It’s similar to Amazon Prime Video in that you can stream certain content on-demand for free (rather, for the base monthly amount you pay and nothing extra), and you can also download and purchase specific titles, allowing you to watch them whenever you want, whether you’re offline or online.

Over 50 million songs are available with Amazon Music Unlimited (and Amazon Music Unlimited HD). Spotify is blown out of the water by this. At least in terms of song quantity. Spotify has a user base of just over 30 million people. With 60 million+ subscribers, Tidal still has Amazon Music beat. However, 50 million songs is certainly nothing to scoff at.

Pros

Over 50 million tracks have been downloaded.
Download and listen to the music offline.
Make an unlimited number of playlists.
Affordably priced app design

Cons

The browser site requires improvement.
There are no podcasts available.
There are watermarks on the downloads.

Website URL: https://www.amazon.com/music/unlimited

5. Deezer

When Deezer first came out, it wasn’t called Deezer. Under the moniker Blogmusik, Daniel Marhely created the original version of what is now known as Deezer in 2006. Mary had an idea of using streaming technology to provide people with infinite music. As a result, thankfully for all of us music fans, he worked rapidly to make that goal a reality.

It provides access to 56 million songs for streaming and downloading. But that’s not all this service has to offer. Deezer also provides a frequently updated list of all the greatest in streaming talk radio shows, which will please podcast fans. Deezer isn’t just for music fans; it can handle almost any audio streaming requirement.

Pros

The market’s second-largest music streaming collection (56 million songs)
Excellent app and website design Reasonably affordable plans
Find new music quickly and easily.

Cons

More independent artists, it is arguable, would be beneficial.

Website URL: https://www.deezer.com/

6. Sirius XM

Sirius XM is one of the most well-known satellite and online radio brands. One of the first things you’ll get when you buy a new car is a free trial subscription to the radio service from the dealership. Sirius has done an incredible job of rendering AM/FM radio obsolete.

It is available in a wide range of locations. The company has a website, a phone app, it can be linked to your credit card, and you can buy a stereo-like radio system. The main radio can be transferred to a variety of various bases, including automobile and stereo bases.

Pros

It’s convenient to be able to listen on multiple devices.
The subscription costs are reasonable.
There is plenty of content for free members.
The sound quality is always excellent.
Listening to experiences that are tailored to you are fantastic.

Cons

It’s tough to discover the primary radio streaming page.
The branding seems disjointed.
The overwhelming number of adverts is aggravating.

Website URL: https://www.siriusxm.com/

7. Mix Cloud

Mix Cloud originated in 2008 as a “lean startup,” as it is known. Nico Perez and Nikhil Shah, the founders of Mix Cloud, met on the University of Cambridge’s campus. Developers Sam Cooke and Mat Clayton have added to the team shortly after.

Mix Cloud stands out the most from the rest of the music and audio streaming services available. Because of the content’s nature. Mix Cloud caters to a very particular format, so be aware that it may not be for everyone. If you, for example, prefer to have complete control over what you listen to at all times, from one song to the next, Mix Cloud is probably not for you.

Pros

An excellent concept
There are numerous independent radio programs, DJs, and podcasts.
Social media elements that are interactive
A strong community

Cons

Bugs in the app
There is no individual song/album streaming available!

Website URL: https://www.mixcloud.com/

8. iHeart Radio

The big radio corporation formerly known as Clear Channel owns iHeart Radio. In 2014, they changed their name to iHeart Media Inc. This was most likely owing to a poor public image, particularly among younger demographics – the very generation they sought to win over by shifting their focus from radio to streaming in the twenty-first century.

One feature that distinguishes iHeart Radio from most (if not all) other music streaming services is the ability to listen to local AM and FM radio stations. If there are AM or FM radio waves being broadcast anywhere in the world, iHeart Radio will most likely pick them up.

Pros

You can listen to local FM/AM radio stations.
There are plenty of mainstream musicians to pick from.
A good algorithm for learning
There are numerous podcasts available.
The site and app are both well-designed.

Cons

There isn’t enough musical variety.
Playlists have a limited number of tracks

Website URL: https://www.iheart.com/

9. Qobuz

Qobuz (pronounced “co-buzz”) is a streaming service based in France. It was founded in 2007 by Yves Riesel and has since extended across European boundaries and internationally. Initially, it expanded to include the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Spain, Germany, and Italy in its operations. Qobuz is also on trial in the United States as of May 2019.

It works well with all of the most popular streaming apps available. Qobuz actually outnumbers Spotify and YouTube Music in terms of song count, with an amazing 40 million tracks. In addition, Qobuz allows you to stream or buy individual tracks to listen to offline if you so wish.

Pros

More than 40 million tracks
High-resolution sound from a studio
Elegant and user-friendly website/app design
Personalized listening experience
Content that is unique

Cons

Excessively costly
Too specialized

Website URL: https://www.qobuz.com/gb-en/discover

10. Live x Live

It not only allows us to listen to prepared music from our favorite artists, but it also allows us to watch exclusive live performances. We never have to miss an outstanding performance thanks to Live x Live (pronounced “Live by Life”). Not only does this service provide typical music streaming, but it also provides live video streaming, placing you in the front row of the best concerts that you otherwise would not be able to attend for various reasons.

Live x Live features one-of-a-kind interviews, giving this streaming service touch of music journalism that no other audio streaming service can match. This is just one of the numerous features that distinguish Live x Live as a one-of-a-kind platform geared for hardcore music fans rather than the ordinary pop radio listener. Live × Live is a terrific way to stay up to date on what’s going on in the music industry.

Pros

There’s a tonne of unique and exclusive video content on the site.
Streams of live concerts
There’s a lot of music here, as well as bespoke radio stations.
The app and website are both beautifully designed.

Cons

Premium membership is a ruse.
Plus should have access to on-demand music.

Website URL: https://www.livexlive.com/

11. Primephonic

Primephonic was created in 2014 as a solution to the problems I just highlighted with playing and discovering high-quality classical music on the most popular music streaming services. It was initially advertised as a simple way to locate and download classical music files. There were no streaming capabilities incorporated into the service originally.

Nearly 3 million distinct pieces are available through Primephonic. Primephonic’s huge archive of classical music is always growing, evolving, and becoming more efficient, thanks to the app’s student staff of classical musicians who are constantly working on adding new titles and performances to the database.

Pros

The design of the website and app is fantastic.
There are almost 3 million recordings to choose from.
A powerful search engine dedicated to classical music.
Experts in the field curate, run, and archive the site.

Cons

The Platinum plan is a touch too expensive.
There are no videos available.

Website URL: https://www.primephonic.com/

12. Google Play Music

There are music and audiobook streaming apps, and then there’s Google Play. However, it should come as no surprise that Google would not release basic music streaming app. Instead, they’ve given customers access to a digital marketplace where they can buy music material, apps, and pretty much anything else that can be found in the Cloud.

In terms of song count, Google Play Music is nothing to scoff at. Google Play Music is a strong competitor for the best streaming app, with more music than Spotify (especially if quantity is your quintessential concern). Over 40 million songs from a variety of musical genres are available on Google Play Music. Oh, and there are also hundreds upon hundreds of popular podcasts. It is one of the best music streaming services.

Pros

More than 40 million tracks
The site and app are both beautifully designed.
Unlimited for a reasonable monthly fee
Download the game and play it later.
You can upload up to 50,000 songs.

Cons

If you ask me, the free version is a little too limited.
There isn’t enough unique content.

Website URL: https://music.youtube.com/googleplaymusic

13. Idagio

Idagio was formed in 2015 by Till Janczukowicz, a former artist manager, and Christoph Lange, the founder of the German streaming service Simfy. Janczukowicz simply stated, “…to offer the ultimate streaming service for classical music worldwide,” when asked what he aimed to achieve with Idagio. The Salzburg Festival hosted the official launch of Adagio as an iOS app in 2015.

It has a lot to offer classical music aficionados in particular. I like how you can search for music based on their mood. Because, especially with Idagio’s massive library of classical music, you don’t always know exactly what you want to hear. You can effortlessly and efficiently uncover what you actually wanted to hear by exploring their carefully created playlists by mood, even if you weren’t aware of it previously. It is one of the best music streaming services.

Pros

There is a lot of classical music.
The design of the app is stunning.
Search and browsing functions are simple to use.
Stream-based on your mood
Exclusive content is fantastic.

Cons

Premium+ is more expensive, but you don’t get anything more in return.

Website URL: https://www.idagio.com/

14. Hoopla Digital

Hoopla Digital isn’t a modest streaming company. There are 500,000 titles available in six distinct formats. All of them are completely free (so long as you have a library card). When you consider that you can use Hoopla Digital on your home computer, laptop, Android, or iOS device (via native apps… which are rather fantastic, I should add), you have one of the best free streaming services available today.

Hoopla is completely free, much like the library. Never pay for anything you borrow from Hoopla Digital, including movies, audiobooks, eBooks, programs, comics, and other media. Of course, if your local library does not participate in Hoopla, this may be the lone disadvantage.

Pros

The site and app are both beautifully designed.
There are no advertisements and the service is completely free.
There are about 500,000 titles available.
Various forms of content

Cons

To use the library, you’ll need a library card.
Hoopla Digital isn’t available in every library.

Website URL: https://www.hoopladigital.com/

Conclusion:

Here our list of the best music streaming services comes to an end, if you want to stream music via online sites. You can consider these options. Keep visiting us to know about other content, until the next time, Goodbye!