Apple Music vs Tidal: which Music streaming wins in 2026?
We tested Apple Music and Tidal head-to-head on every criterion in our music streaming methodology. Here's the verdict.
Verdict
Neck and neck
Based on 5 music streaming criteria: Apple Music wins 0, Tidal wins 0, 5 tied.
Apple Music
0
criteria won
Tidal
0
criteria won
Feature-by-feature
| Criterion | Apple Music | Tidal | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual $/mo | 10.99 | 10.99 | โ |
| Family $/mo | 16.99 | 16.99 | โ |
| Lossless included | Yes (ALAC up to 24/192) | Yes (FLAC up to 24/192) | โ |
| Dolby Atmos / spatial | Yes | Yes (Atmos / Sony 360) | โ |
| Free tier | No | No | โ |
Total cost of ownership
| Horizon | Apple Music | Tidal | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 months | $132 | $132 | โ |
| 24 months | $264 | $264 | โ |