The 7 Best Music Streaming Service for Everyone in 2024

The music streaming field seems to be crowded with platforms offering similar services and features. However, each platform continuously expands its music library, enhances sound quality, and even optimizes algorithms to curate exclusive content. All these aim to attract and retain more users.

In this case, the best music streaming service selection can be challenging. But no fret, this post will delve into seven standout music streaming services to help you out. Whether you are an audiophile or a casual listener, these seven recommendations will surely provide a clear answer to the question you've always cared about: which is the best music streaming service?

1. Spotify

As one of the world's leading music platforms by user count, Spotify offers a well-balanced experience across all aspects. Its algorithm is powerful enough to recommend the hottest songs and playlists to you every week. Moreover, the sound quality can reach up to 320 kbps, making it suitable for both music lovers and normal listeners alike. Even better, Spotify comes with a free version. Although there are limitations in sound quality and usage, it's a great choice if you're looking for an affordable way to enjoy music.

Beyond that, Spotify has also integrated social features within its app to enhance music interaction. This allows you to enjoy your favorite tunes with friends without switching platforms. But what makes it stand out is its enormous music library. As of June 19, 2024, over 100 million songs have been included in its collection. Additionally, it is one of the few streaming services that offer a substantial number of podcasts and audiobooks, with 6 million and 350,000 respectively.

2. Apple Music

Since its launch in 2015, Apple Music has built a library of over 100 million songs. With algorithmic features similar to Spotify's "Discover Weekly," it allows you to easily explore and enjoy different tracks. In addition, Apple Music boasts high-re quality ranging from 16-bit/44.1 kHz (CD quality) to 24-bit/192 kHz (lossless). Both options can offer rich and detailed listening.

Apple Music also incorporates Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio. Combined with features like crossfade, it provides easy access to a 360-degree surround sound experience. Better yet, thanks to the Apple ecosystem, this best streaming service seamlessly integrates across iPhone, iPad, MacBook, Apple Watch, and even Apple TV devices, making it possible to switch playback freely using only Siri.

3. Amazon Music

If you find Apple Music doesn't perform well on Android, you might want to turn to Amazon Music. Although not launched by Google, it is widely compatible with Android devices. And Amazon Music comes with superior quality ranging from 16-bit/44.1 kHz to 24-bit/192 kHz and a library of over 100 million songs. All these comparable advantages fully qualify it as the best music streaming service on Android.

Besides, Amazon Music supports single purchases and downloads in DRM-free formats for easy transfer and listening as Apple Music does. If you want to enjoy Dolby Atmos, it gets you covered as well. What's even better is that Amazon Music has introduced Sony 360 Reality Audio to ensure a more immersive listening experience.

4. YouTube Music

YouTube Music offers approximately 100 million tracks, placing it on par with similar services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. But unlike these competitors, it features a "Sample" button on its homepage that allows you to browse and discover music videos in a TikTok-like fashion.

Moreover, it taps into regular YouTube content. Mixes and live performances that might not have copyrights on other streaming services can be found and enjoyed on YouTube Music. What's more, the best streaming music service integrates with Google Assistant. If you connect Google Assistant to smart home devices or your phone, you can effortlessly play music, skip tracks, or adjust the volume with voice commands.

5. TIDAL

TIDAL is one of the best music streaming services designed for audiophiles. Its core offering is high-resolution audio at 16-bit/44.1 kHz, bringing you closer to studio-quality sound if you are a music enthusiast. Meanwhile, options for 24-bit/96kHz and 24-bit/192kHz quality are also available on TIDAL, allowing songs to be played with near-original recording accuracy.

Notably, TIDAL places a strong emphasis on supporting artists and music creators. A lot of exclusive content is available with its 110 million CD-quality tracks and 650,000 videos. TIDAL also frequently streams highly anticipated live performances, including concerts and music festivals.

6. Qobuz

The name Qobuz originates from an ancient bow instrument called the kobyz. Built on this culture, its music library of nearly 100 million tracks goes beyond mainstream hits. It often features strong selections in classical, jazz, and other niche genres. And among them, many are curated by music experts and editors to help you discover and appreciate exceptional works.

But what truly sets Qobuz apart is its extensive catalog of high-res audio files available for streaming and purchase. Even with the basic premium plan, music is delivered in CD-quality FLAC format, ensuring a high-fidelity listening experience for all tracks.

7. Idagio

Located in Germany, Idagio stands out for classical music collections. It offers a free version. But with a subscription, it allows unlimited playlist creation and access to high-end concerts, operas, dance performances, and educational programs. It will also curate exclusive classical music-related newsletters.

Delving deeper, Idagio can help find classical music and its scores on the platform by composer, era, orchestra, or soloist, making it the best music streaming service for music students. Better still, Idagio also prioritizes sound quality, offering all audio in CD quality for listening and enjoyment.

Which Is the Best Streaming Music Service

The descriptions above may make it challenging to intuitively compare these seven top streaming music services. For your convenience, a table has been prepared below. Please review and select the one that best suits your preferences.