If you enjoy streaming music in India, you’ve probably considered Spotify, YouTube Music, or Apple Music.
All three offer large song libraries, ad-free playback on paid plans, and offline listening. However, there are clear differences in pricing, features, and the overall experience.
With Spotify recently increasing its prices in India for the first time since 2019, YouTube Music remains the most affordable, and Apple Music includes high-quality audio features at the same price as its competitors.
Here’s a full comparison to help you decide which one suits you best.
Spotify: Features and New Prices in India
Spotify’s premium plans in India now cost:
Rs 139/month – Individual
Rs 179/month – Duo (2 accounts)
Rs 229/month – Family (up to 6 accounts)
Rs 69/month – Student
These are price increases from the earlier rates (Rs 119, Rs 149, Rs 179, and Rs 59). Spotify says the hike is due to rising global costs.
Key Features:
Ad-free music and offline downloads
Improved audio quality vs. free version
Smart recommendations based on your listening
Curated playlists that change with your taste
Extra tools like ‘Concerts Near You’, ‘Upcoming Releases’, and a Music Feed to stay updated on your favourite artists
Spotify is great for discovering new music and enjoying a personalized experience, no matter which plan you pick.
YouTube Music: Affordable and Video-Friendly
YouTube Music is free with ads, but the Premium version removes ads, allows offline downloads, and supports background playback.
Pricing:
Rs 99/month – YouTube Music Premium (Individual)
Rs 129/month – YouTube Premium (includes ad-free YouTube + Music)
Rs 149/month – Music Premium Family Plan
Rs 189/month – YouTube Premium Family Plan
Key Features:
Custom playlists and personalized mixes
Option to switch between music video and audio
Audio-only mode to save data
Great value if you also watch videos on YouTube
YouTube Music stands out for users who spend a lot of time on YouTube, making the Premium bundle a cost-effective combo.
Apple Music: High-Quality Sound and Ecosystem Integration
Apple Music keeps things simple with three plans:
Rs 99/month – Individual
Rs 149/month – Family (up to 6 users)
Rs 49/month – Student
It offers over 100 million songs, curated playlists, and exclusive content, all ad-free.
Key Features:
Lossless Audio and Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos
Real-time lyrics for sing-along sessions
Dedicated apps: Apple Music Classical for orchestral lovers and Apple Music Sing for karaoke
Seamless integration with Apple devices and Siri voice control
Features like Crossfade and AutoPlay for smooth playback
Apple Music is the best pick for those who care most about sound quality and already use Apple devices.
Which One Should You Choose?
Each app has its strengths, and the right choice depends on what matters most to you:
Choose Spotify if you want smart playlists, music discovery, and artist updates.
Go for YouTube Music if you’re on a budget and already use YouTube a lot—it’s great value for both music and videos.
Pick Apple Music if you want the best sound quality and already use iPhones, iPads, or Macs.
In short, think about your daily habits, what features you care about, and what ecosystem (Apple, Google, or neutral) you’re part of.
