- Discover all the free and paid alternatives to Spotify, including their benefits, features, and sound quality.
- Consider which app best suits your musical style: Hi-Res, ad-free, independent, social, or podcast alternatives.
- Easily compare in the table: catalog, offline options, ads, and cross-platform compatibility.
Spotify has established itself as the most popular and widely used music streaming platform worldwide. However, the rising prices of its premium plans and the limitations of the free version have prompted many users to seek alternatives for listening to music for free , without compromising on quality or variety. Despite Spotify's dominance, today there are a large number of apps and services, both free and paid, that offer advanced features, vast catalogs, and models tailored to different needs and musical tastes. In this article, you'll discover the best Spotify alternatives for listening to music for free or with affordable subscriptions. You'll learn about their advantages, disadvantages, unique features, and how to access them from Android and iOS devices, computers, smart TVs, or any smart speaker.
There are already many apps and websites similar to Spotify that let you listen to music wherever and whenever you want, for free and via streaming . It's important to emphasize that no alternative matches the complete Spotify Premium experience in every aspect, but many offer impressive features. Furthermore, they all have an optional premium version with extra features such as downloads, ad-free audio, offline mode, and full access to the catalog.
How to choose the best Spotify alternative for your needs
Before diving headfirst into trying out different options, it's essential to know what factors to consider when selecting the most suitable service for you. Here are the main aspects to compare:
- Music catalog: Make sure the platform has a broad repertoire, including your favorite genres and artists. Check if it covers mainstream and independent music.
- Sound quality: If you value detail, look for options that offer Hi-Res or lossless audio (FLAC, ALAC, MQA, etc.).
- Additional features: Download for offline listening, background playback, cross-platform support, collaborative playlists, lyrics, voice assistant integration, podcasts, and music videos.
- Pricing model: Do you need a free, family, or student plan, or would you prefer to pay less for a basic plan? Check to see if the option offers a free trial period.
- Availability and compatible devices: Make sure you can access it from your mobile phone, PC, smart TV, car, or preferred smart speaker.
If you have clear priorities, you'll find it much easier to find a platform that suits you. Below, we explore the best alternatives to Spotify , ordered according to their main features and the type of user they might interest most.
1. YouTube Music: Unlimited streaming music and videos
YouTube Music has become a leading alternative, especially for those who value music, music videos, live concerts, and exclusive content. It offers:
- Free version: Unlimited access to a huge music and video catalog, with ads and no downloads or background playback on mobile devices.
- Premium version: Removes ads, allows you to download songs for offline listening, plays in the background, and offers superior audio quality.
- Automatic lists and customization: An advanced algorithm recommends playlists, artists, and new releases based on your tastes and recent listening.
- Cross-platform compatibility: Available on Android, iOS, web, smart TVs, and smart speakers. Integration with Google accounts.
- Access to music videos, live shows, and exclusive content: You can easily switch between the audio-only version and the original music video.
- Plans: Includes individual, family, and student monthly payments, and the option to try it out for free for an initial period.
Its advantages include immediate access to new features and releases, as well as recommendations based on artificial intelligence, and full integration with other Google services.
2. Deezer: Music streaming with personalized playlists and recommendations
Deezer is one of the most comprehensive and stable music streaming platforms in the world, with an intuitive interface and a powerful, personalized recommendation algorithm. Some of its most notable features include:
- Free plan: Allows you to listen to songs with ads and certain limitations (for example, only shuffle mode on mobile).
- Deezer Premium, Family, Duo and Student: Access superior audio quality (FLAC up to 1411 kbps on Premium), downloadable songs for offline listening, and an ad-free experience.
- Huge catalog: Over 90 million songs and playlists curated by experts and users.
- Flow Function: A personalized playlist that combines your tastes, new trends, and recommended tracks.
- Multi-platform and multi-device availability: Accessible from mobile, PC, web, smart TV, wearables, voice assistants, and connected cars.
- 30-day free trial and regular promotions for new users.
Deezer is the ideal choice if you're looking for smooth navigation, outstanding sound quality, customization options, and full compatibility with all your devices. It also offers podcasts, audiobooks, and online radio.
3. Apple Music: quality, exclusivity, and synchronization with the Apple ecosystem
Apple Music is the best alternative for those who use Apple devices and are looking for an extensive library, seamless integration, and exclusive content. Its strengths:
- Catalog of over 100 million songs: It includes the discography of major artists, exclusive albums, and releases before other platforms.
- Sound quality: Supports CD quality (ALAC lossless), and part of the catalog is available in high resolution (24-bit/192 kHz). Includes spatial audio (Dolby Atmos) for an immersive experience.
- Lists and live radio: Exclusive playlists created by experts, live radio with international DJs and guests.
- Available on iOS, Android, Windows, web, HomePod, Apple TV, CarPlay, and more.
- No free version (beyond the initial trial), but options for students and competitive family plans.
- No ads, unlimited downloads, and full sync with your entire Apple ecosystem.
Its integration with Siri, HomePod, Apple Watch, and other devices makes it unbeatable for 100% Apple users. Plus, it lets you upload your own music to the cloud and access your entire library from anywhere.
4. Amazon Music: Large catalog and benefits for Prime users
Amazon Music offers several options and is especially attractive to Prime members, who receive free access to the most basic plan. Its features include:
- Amazon Music Prime: Included with an Amazon Prime membership, it offers ad-free access to two million songs, offline downloads, and the ability to listen on multiple devices.
- Amazon Music Unlimited: Paid plan that expands the catalog to over 100 million songs, ad-free, with multiple profiles and HD/Ultra HD quality (Hi-Res FLAC up to 24-bit/192 kHz).
- Application and compatibility: Works on Android, iOS, web, Echo, Fire TV, tablets, smart TVs, and many more devices.
- Lists, podcasts, and automatic recommendations: Includes original content and songs selected according to your interests.
- Family, individual, and student plans with a free trial period.
- Full integration with the Alexa ecosystem and smart home devices.
Amazon Music is a great option if you're already a Prime member or looking for premium sound quality at a great price, along with full compatibility with Alexa smart devices.
5. Tidal: high-fidelity audio and exclusive content
Tidal is focused on true music lovers who seek the highest sound quality and exclusive content. Its main distinguishing features are:
- HiFi and Hi-Res Audio: Offers FLAC playback up to 1411 kbps and MQA playback up to 9216 kbps with the HiFi Plus subscription.
- Catalog of more than 90 million tracks, including music videos, documentaries, live concerts and exclusive interviews.
- Fair distribution for artists: A portion of your subscription payment goes directly to the musicians you listen to the most.
- Compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, web, smart TV, and professional sound and DJ equipment.
- Curated lists, podcasts, and personalized recommendations.
- HiFi, HiFi Plus, Family and Student plans, all with a free trial option.
Tidal is the go-to choice for audiophiles, musicians, and anyone who doesn't settle for standard quality. It's also perfect for those looking for documentaries and exclusive audiovisual content about their favorite artists.
6. Qobuz: lossless music and editorial catalog for music lovers
Qobuz is the French platform that prioritizes the highest audio quality and a meticulously curated editorial approach. Ideal for classical music lovers, jazz enthusiasts, and discerning audiophiles.
- Hi-Res Lossless Audio (FLAC 24-Bit up to 192 kHz): The entire catalog is available at least in CD quality.
- Catalog of more than 80 million songs, from great classics to recent releases and rarities.
- Own musical magazine with articles, reports, reviews and educational content.
- Digital downloads and own store, in addition to streaming via app and web.
- Cross-platform compatibility: Android, iOS, desktop, smart TV and more.
- Studio, Sublime and Duo/Family plans, with a free trial period and discounted annual payments.
Qobuz is especially interesting if you're looking for excellent quality, access to editorial releases, and a rich library of expertly curated content.
7. SoundCloud: Discover independent music and share your creations
SoundCloud is an essential platform for those who want to discover independent artists, exclusive mixes, DJ sets, podcasts, and much more . It stands out for:
- Catalog of more than 200 million songs (including demos, remixes, and amateur content that you won't find on other platforms).
- Free version: Unlimited online listening, with ads and in standard quality.
- SoundCloud Go and Go Plus: Paid plans to listen ad-free, download music, and access the entire archive with higher sound quality.
- Upload your own songs, share podcasts and connect with a global community of creators.
- Available for Android, iOS, web, and desktop apps.
SoundCloud is the perfect place for those who want to discover music outside the mainstream and support emerging creators. It's a social platform where you can interact directly with musicians and fans.
8. Bandcamp: Support independent artists and buy music directly
Bandcamp is a unique platform geared towards the independent community, where you can buy albums from your favorite artists and stream or download them forever:
- Explore alternative genres, electronic, rock, hip-hop and more.
- Follow artists and receive notifications of new releases.
- Buy albums, vinyl records, merchandise... and directly supports musicians.
- Free fan version: Stream all your purchased music from the app or the web.
- Custom playlists and collections.
- Ideal for searching for rarities, experimental music and hidden gems.
While not strictly a competitor to Spotify for unlimited streaming, Bandcamp complements the larger platforms and is ideal for discovering and supporting emerging talent. Every purchase goes directly to the artist.
9. Last.fm: Smart recommendations and music statistics
Last.fm combines the best of streaming, algorithmic personalization, and a social music network. It's an excellent alternative if you're interested in discovering new songs based on your listening habits.
- Custom music profile: Analyze all your listening across different platforms (Spotify, YouTube, Apple Music, etc.) and create detailed statistics on your tastes, trends, and favorite artists.
- Weekly recommendations and personalized radios: Discover new artists and playlists created in real time based on what you listen to.
- It works as a perfect complement to other streaming platforms.
- Includes information on concerts, events, and music news.
- Free plan with ads and premium option without ads.
Last.fm is ideal for those who want to delve deeper into their listening habits and explore smart, personalized recommendations.
10. Shark Music: Listen without registration and without complications
Shark Music is a simple and straightforward app, ideal for those looking to listen to music without complications and without the mandatory registration process. Its key features:
- No registration required: You can access music content immediately.
- Moderate advertising: By signing up, you'll reduce ads and have a less intrusive experience.
- Categories and thematic playlists.
It's perfect for those who want a quick, no-strings-attached alternative and don't mind putting up with a few ads if they get free music streaming in return.
11. SongFlip: Simple alternative from the Google Play Store
SongFlip is one of the few alternatives downloadable directly from the official Google Play store. Its main features:
- Plays only royalty-free music, which is why its catalogue is more limited.
- Allows you to create and manage custom playlists.
- Easy navigation by styles, genres, and new releases.
- Ideal for those looking to explore free or creative music.
SongFlip is suitable for casual users or those who want to listen to music without worrying about commercial licensing.
12. Spotube: Open Source app without ads and compatible across platforms
Spotube is a new open-source application that combines the best of Spotify and YouTube Music, but without ads, at no cost, and with complete respect for user privacy. For more details, you can consult this guide.
- Based on the Spotify and YouTube APIs, allows access to popular playlists, international top songs and automatic recommendations.
- No login required, although you can sync your Spotify playlists if you wish.
- Includes offline mode, background playback, and advanced settings.
- Available for Android, Windows, Linux, Mac and compatible with Chromecast.
- No ads, completely free, and reviewable code on GitHub.
Spotify is the perfect example of how free and open alternatives can match (or even improve) the user experience of larger platforms, especially if you're concerned about privacy and want a lightweight, customizable app.
13. RiMusic: Listen to all of YouTube Music for free and without ads on Android
RiMusic is an open-source Android app that gives you free, ad-free access to the entire YouTube Music catalog. Its key features include:
- Complete YouTube Music catalog, including artists, albums, and playlists.
- Modern and intuitive interface, similar to Spotify.
- Listen in the background and download music for offline mode.
- Multi-language support, built-in lyrics and translations.
- It requires no registration or payment and its code is publicly auditable.
- Not available on Google Play, installed via APK from F-Droid or GitHub.
14. Other alternatives and complementary options to expand your musical experience
- Digital radios and online stations: Platforms such as Europa FM, iHeartRadio, BBC Radio 1, and OndaChannels offer live music, exclusive programs, live performances, and a variety of styles, accessible via the web, apps, and smart speakers.
- Collaborative stations with sleep timer and user requests: OndaChannels stands out for its ability to request new stations and its simple system for sleeping with music without worries.
- MusicAll and ViMusic: Other apps allow you to stream music from YouTube for free, create custom playlists, and search for any song, although they often require manual installation due to Google Play policies.
- Qobuz, Tidal and Amazon Music Unlimited: If you're looking for the highest sound quality, try these platforms that support Hi-Res, downloads, and fair payment to artists.
Quick comparison of the best alternatives to Spotify
| Consumer Relations Platform | Estimated catalog | Free | Hi-Res Audio | Downloads | My Listings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| YouTube Music | +100 million | Yes | No | Premium | Otherwise |
| Deezer | +90 million | Yes | Premium | Premium | Otherwise |
| Apple Music | +100 million | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Tidal | +90 million | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Amazon Music | +100 million | Yes (Prime) | Yes | Yes | Otherwise |
| SoundCloud | +200 million | Yes | No | GoPlus | Otherwise |
| Bandcamp | Unknown | Yes | No | When buying | No |
| Qobuz | +80 million | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Last.fm | Depends on API | Yes | No | No | Otherwise |
| Spottube | +100 million (depending on Spotify/YouTube) | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| RiMusic | +100 million (YouTube Music) | Yes | No | Yes | No |
Frequently asked questions about free and paid alternatives to Spotify
- Do all free alternatives to Spotify have ads? No. Some, like Spotify or RiMusic, eliminate ads entirely. However, most free options integrate ads between songs. You can also check out How to troubleshoot Spotify on Android Auto.
- Which services offer better sound quality than Spotify? Tidal, Qobuz, Apple Music and Amazon Music Unlimited offer Hi-Res and lossless audio, surpassing the quality of standard Spotify and you can also discover How to get Spotify Premium APK.
- Can I download music to listen to offline without paying? Only in specific cases (e.g., Bandcamp for purchased albums, RiMusic, or Spotify). Offline downloading is generally a premium feature. You may also be interested in How to cancel Spotify Premium.
- Is it legal to use apps like Spotify, RiMusic, or MusicAll? These are open-source apps that use public APIs to play music already available for free on other platforms. However, their use may not be 100% approved by proprietary services, so install them at your own discretion and always check permissions.
- Which free alternative has the largest catalog? SoundCloud and YouTube Music/Spotube/RiMusic, thanks to their community-generated files and YouTube integration.
The variety and quality of Spotify alternatives for listening to free music continues to grow. Whether you're looking for a service to discover new artists, top-quality audio, live radio, integration with your Apple or Android ecosystem, or simply ad-free, free music, there are options for every type of user. We invite you to explore each one, take advantage of the trial periods, compare features, and decide which best suits your musical lifestyle and budget. Would you like to share your favorite in the comments, or tell us about your experience with any of these alternatives?