CompareFairlyBest Music Streaming Services 2026
Our pick : Spotify (70/100) · Cheapest : Soundiiz · Best value : Spotify
In short
This comparison evaluates 11 music streaming services based on 12 criteria, including price per month, family plan cost, student discount, catalog size, podcast integration, and live radio stations. Spotify ranks highest with a score of 70/100, excelling in device compatibility and catalog size, both scoring 100/100. Deezer also achieves a 70/100 score, surpassing Spotify in live radio stations. Soundiiz is identified as the most affordable option. The data used for this comparison is sourced from 7 out of the 11 options, with the remaining values being estimates and flagged accordingly. The facts in this summary are computed from the table below; only the wording is generated.
Comparison table
| Criterion | Spotify | Deezer | Tidal | Apple Music | Pandora | Amazon Music Unlimited |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price / month (USD) | 10.99 | 10.99 | 10.99 | 10.99 | 11 | 10.99 |
| Family Plan Cost (USD) | 16.99 | 14.99 | 17.99 | 16.99 | 14.99 | 16.99 |
| Student Discount | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | — | — |
| Catalog Size (songs) | 100000000 | 90000000 | 100000000 | 100000000 | 100000000 | 100000000 |
| Podcast Integration | ✓ | ✓ | — | — | ✓ | — |
| Live Radio Stations | — | ✓ | — | ✓ | ✓ | — |
| Audio Quality | Standard | Lossless | Hi-Res Lossless | High | Standard | High |
| Offline Listening | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Recommendation Engine | Advanced | Good | Good | Good | Advanced | Good |
| Lyrics Display | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | — | ✓ |
| User Interface | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Good | Good | Good |
| Device Compatibility (platforms) | 10 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 5 | 7 |
Frequently asked questions
What are the best music streaming services in 2026?
In 2026, Spotify leads our comparison with a score of 70/100, closely followed by Deezer, based on criteria like price, catalog size, and features.
How do Spotify and Deezer compare on price and features?
Spotify is currently ranked highest, excelling in areas such as podcast integration and live radio. Deezer is also a strong contender, offering competitive pricing and a vast catalog.
Are there student discounts for music streaming services?
Yes, many music streaming services offer student discounts to make their plans more affordable. Check individual service details for eligibility and pricing.
How is the music streaming service ranking determined?
Our ranking is based on objective data for each criterion, including price, catalog size, and feature availability. We maintain strict neutrality, and our placement is not influenced by any paid arrangements.
Methodology and transparency
Ranking: options are sorted on measured, sourced criteria. No position is ever sold, and no advertiser pays to appear here.
Scope: this comparison is not exhaustive. It presents the options our sources document, not every offer on the market.
Earnings: some outbound links may be affiliate links that earn us a commission. This never affects the ranking, the scores or the data.
Data: every value is linked to its source and refreshed automatically; the collection date is shown.