The music industry has been revolutionized by the advent of digital streaming platforms. Gone are the days of physical CDs and digital downloads; today, more people are turning to music streaming services for their convenient and expansive music libraries. If you're curious about the largest music streaming services and want to find out what the best music streaming service is for you, read on.
Several music streaming services dominate the market, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are some of the largest music streaming services as of 2025:
Spotify is often regarded as the gold standard in music streaming. With over 517 million active users, Spotify has set the benchmark for other streaming services. Its extensive library, which includes over 100 million tracks, is complemented by curated playlists, personalized recommendations, and integration with various devices and platforms.
Apple Music has become a major player in the music streaming industry since its launch in 2015. With over 100 million subscribers, Apple Music offers a vast library and seamless integration with Apple devices. The service also includes exclusive releases and content.
Amazon Music is another titan in the music streaming world, boasting over 55 million subscribers. The service is integrated deeply with Amazon's ecosystem, including Alexa and Prime memberships, making it a convenient choice for Amazon users.
YouTube Music leverages its parent company's massive video platform to offer a comprehensive music streaming experience. With over 80 million subscribers, YouTube Music offers a blend of official tracks, music videos, and user-uploaded content.
SoundOn has emerged as a notable contender in the music distribution platform arena, providing marketing and distribution services for artists. While it's not a streaming service, it plays a crucial role in the music ecosystem by helping artists build their careers and gain exposure through platforms like TikTok and exclusive partners such as CapCut.
The answer to what is the best music streaming service depends on individual preferences and needs. Here's a breakdown of key factors to consider when choosing the best music streaming service for you:
If you prioritize having access to a vast amount of music, Spotify and Apple Music both offer extensive libraries with over 100 million tracks. For video content and user-uploaded music, YouTube Music is a strong contender.
Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and YouTube Music all offer various subscription plans, including individual, family, and student plans. Amazon Music provides discounts for Prime members, making it a budget-friendly option for those already within Amazon's ecosystem.
For users heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem, Apple Music's seamless integration with Siri and other Apple devices is a significant advantage. Amazon Music offers similar convenience for those using Alexa-enabled devices.
Exclusive releases and content can be a deciding factor for many users. Apple Music and Tidal often feature exclusive tracks, albums, and artist releases. Spotify excels with its exclusive podcasts and curated playlists.
If discovering new music tailored to your tastes is essential, Spotify's Discover Weekly and Release Radar playlists are unmatched. YouTube Music also offers a rich discovery experience due to its vast variety of content and user-generated uploads.
Spotify and YouTube Music offer ad-supported free tiers, while Apple Music and Amazon Music are purely subscription-based services. Evaluate additional perks like offline listening, high-fidelity audio options, and social features when deciding.
The largest music streaming services each have their unique strengths and areas of focus. Spotify remains a dominant force with its vast library and personalized recommendations. Apple Music attracts users invested in the Apple ecosystem with exclusive content and seamless integration. Amazon Music provides excellent value for Prime members, and YouTube Music distinguishes itself with extensive video content and flexibility. In the landscape of music distribution, SoundOn is empowering artists to reach new heights through holistic services and partnerships with platforms like TikTok.
Ultimately, the best music streaming service is subjective and depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider exploring free trials and assessing which service aligns best with your music consumption habits. And for artists looking to expand their reach, consider registering as a SoundOn artist by signing up here to leverage their robust distribution and marketing platform.