Both have over 100 million songs and both now stream lossless audio. Apple Music is $2 a month cheaper in the US; Spotify has the free plan, better discovery and podcasts.
🌍 Global · Last updated November 13, 2026
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Spotify wins overall thanks to its free plan, playlists and podcasts. Apple Music is the better deal if you'll pay either way: it costs less and sounds better on good equipment.
US Individual: $12.99 vs $10.99. Family: $21.99 vs $16.99.
Spotify lossless reaches 24-bit/44.1 kHz; Apple goes to 24-bit/192 kHz plus Dolby Atmos.
Spotify's personal playlists are its biggest strength.
Spotify has an ad-supported free plan; Apple Music offers a trial only.
Spotify Premium includes podcasts and 15 hours of audiobooks a month.
Spotify runs on almost everything; Apple Music is best on Apple gear.
Pick Spotify for the free plan, playlists made for you, podcasts and sharing with friends.
Pick Apple Music if you use an iPhone, want the lower price or care about sound quality.
ⓘ Prices differ by country and both services raise them from time to time. Check the price where you live.