Cover image illustrated by Caitlin Smith
Spotify and Apple Music are the two largest streaming platforms with Spotify having 30% of the global subscriber market followed by Apple Music at 13%.
“I think Spotify is better because it has more variety of music. It is also a better platform for unknown artists to make themselves known,” freshman Nico Mazzie said.
A key difference between the platforms is that Spotify offers a free with ads version. Apple’s subscription is $10.99 per month and Spotify’s is $11.99. “Originally, I had to pay to use Apple Music, which was one of the main reasons I transferred,” Photography teacher Sarah Frivold said.
Spotify pulls ahead for many users due to it’s complex algorithm for recommendations. However, many appreciate Apple Music’s overall sound quality.
Mike Andronico, a senior Tech Writer for CNN, recalled using AirPods Max’s with Apple Music was much better than Spotify. “Not only did Spatial Audio track my head movements — keeping each instrument in a fixed place as if I were at a live concert — it also highlighted vocal harmonies and small background instrumentation I never noticed when listening on Spotify,” wrote Andonico.
While Spotify’s free with ads option will continue to attract users, those seeking a higher sound quality and a simpler interface may continue to resort to Apple Music.
