Curious about which music streaming platforms are worth your time in 2026, especially since physical media is no longer as popular? Below is a concise list of the top platforms you should consider using this year. This list includes Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube Music, and more, with details on subscriptions, sound quality, and why each platform stands out in 2026.
1. Apple Music
Released in 2015, Apple Music now offers over 100 million tracks. The subscription costs $10.99 per month for individuals and $5.99 for students, with a family plan also available. The service includes a free one-month trial and works across multiple devices and operating systems. Some subscriptions are bundled with other Apple services, adding extra value. Apple Music features high-quality audio with Dolby Atmos and Lossless sound, offline listening, and curated content personalized to each listener.
2. Spotify
Spotify is known for being both user-friendly and compatible across many devices. It offers around 80 million songs and over 5 million podcasts. Pricing is slightly higher, at $11.99 per month for individuals and $5.99 for students, with Duo and Family plans available. Spotify enhances the user experience through personalized features such as Daylists and Release Radar, which help promote new and relevant artist content.
3. Tidal
Tidal is a newer platform with approximately 110 million tracks. It stands out for offering unique content that may not be available on Apple Music or Spotify. Tidal has three subscription options: $10.99 per month for standard access, $16.99 for premium sound quality, and a student plan for $5.49 per month, making it the most affordable student option listed. Users receive personalized playlists, and the platform is known for studio-quality sound.
4. YouTube Music
YouTube Music is available on multiple platforms, including iOS, Android, and Google devices. It features around 80 million songs, along with music videos and exclusive recordings that may not be released on other streaming services. Premium pricing is $10.99 per month, with a family plan at $16.99 and a student plan at $5.49. One of YouTube Music’s biggest advantages is its support for smaller artists and its extensive music video library.
5. Amazon Music
Amazon Music launched in 2007 and has gained popularity in recent years. It offers around 90 million tracks and two unlimited plan options: $9.99 per month for standard users and $10.99 per month for Amazon Prime members. Amazon Music provides high-quality audio, works across various platforms, and includes voice-to-speech features for hands-free music selection. Over time, it also develops personalized playlists based on listening habits.
Which platform are you most interested in? Did any of these facts surprise you about music streaming in 2026?
