Apple Music vs YouTube Music: which Music streaming wins in 2026?
We tested Apple Music and YouTube Music 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, YouTube Music wins 0, 5 tied.
Apple Music
0
criteria won
YouTube Music
0
criteria won
Feature-by-feature
| Criterion | Apple Music | YouTube Music | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual $/mo | 10.99 | 10.99 | — |
| Family $/mo | 16.99 | 16.99 | — |
| Lossless included | Yes (ALAC up to 24/192) | No (256 kbps AAC) | — |
| Dolby Atmos / spatial | Yes | No | — |
| Free tier | No | Yes (ad-supported) | — |
Total cost of ownership
| Horizon | Apple Music | YouTube Music | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 months | $132 | $132 | — |
| 24 months | $264 | $264 | — |