Apple Music vs Spotify: which Music streaming wins in 2026?
We tested Apple Music and Spotify head-to-head on every criterion in our music streaming methodology. Here's the verdict.
Verdict
Spotify wins overall
Based on 5 music streaming criteria: Apple Music wins 0, Spotify wins 2, 3 tied.
Apple Music
0
criteria won
Spotify
Winner2
criteria won
Feature-by-feature
| Criterion | Apple Music | Spotify | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual $/mo | 10.99 | 12.99 | Spotify |
| Family $/mo | 16.99 | 21.99 | Spotify |
| Lossless included | Yes (ALAC up to 24/192) | No (320 kbps lossy) | โ |
| Dolby Atmos / spatial | Yes | No | โ |
| Free tier | No | Yes | โ |
Total cost of ownership
| Horizon | Apple Music | Spotify | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 months | $132 | $156 | Apple Music |
| 24 months | $264 | $312 | Apple Music |