The music streaming industry in India has changed considerably with the introduction of numerous platforms catering to willing listeners. As a customer, these platforms provide a variety of Bollywood, regional, and international music, all with a service preference. Enlisted below are the top 10 music streaming services in India, along with their notable features and cons.
1. Spotify
As the leading music streaming service, it offers more than 70 million songs and updates its library continuously. In addition, the service has special playlists, personalized podcasts, and several device compatibilities. Furthermore, the platform has social features like enhanced sharing options and collaborative playlists which users find beneficial.
Pros:
- Huge collection of songs and podcasts.
- Suggest songs based on what you like.
- Works on different devices.
Cons:
- Free version has ads and limits on skipping songs.
- Best sound quality is only for paid users.
2. Apple Music
Apple Music has over 75 million songs including songs from exclusive albums. It also works seamlessly with Apple products and offers Dolby atmos and spatial audio along with high quality stereo sound.
Pros:
- High-quality sound, including special audio effects.
- Exclusive songs and early access to some albums.
- No ads and allows offline listening.
Cons:
- No free version after the trial ends.
- Works best with Apple devices; limited features on others.
3. Amazon Prime Music
An Amazon platform, set to be included with a subscription, is free for Prime members. The music service includes a wide array of songs from several genres for no added fees. It also connects with Amazon Echo devices for easy voice control via Alexa.
Pros:
- No ads for Amazon Prime members.
- Can be controlled using Alexa voice commands.
- Allows offline downloads.
Cons:
- Smaller music collection than some other apps.
- Apps could be easier to use.
4. YouTube Music
The platform makes good use of its YouTube content library and provides users with remixes of the original songs as well as live versions. Additionally, the platform provides alternatives to cater for different users preferences to allow switching easily between audio and video mode.
Pros:
- Includes both official songs and user-uploaded music.
- Lets you search songs using lyrics.
- Easy to switch between video and audio.
Cons:
- Free version has ads and does not allow background play.
- The sound quality is not as good as on some other platforms.
5. Tidal
Users of Tidal know it best for offering unique and non-unique material. Its main selling point, however, still remains in audio quality. Being an artist-owned streaming service, Tidal provides more than 70 million songs along with 250,000 videos. It even supports Master quality audio along with Dolby Atmos.
Pros:
- Offers very high-quality sound.
- Some songs are released here before other platforms.
- Pays artists better than many other services.
Cons:
- More expensive than most other apps.
- Does not have many social features.
6. Deezer
Deezer is always improving! At the moment, it offers support for over 73 million songs, meaning users can get all songs including personalized recommendations along with high quality streaming. An offline mode is offered as well.
Pros:
- Special “Flow” feature plays music based on your taste.
- Supports high-quality audio.
- Works on smart speakers and gaming consoles.
Cons:
- Free version has ads and fewer features.
- May not have all Indian regional songs.
7. SoundCloud
One of the most unique features available only for SoundCloud is discovery and follow options for independent artists, giving them power to build their own collection of tracks. Unlike most platforms, SoundCloud lets emerging artists monetize their songs as well.
Pros:
- Great for finding new and independent artists.
- Lets users upload and share their own music.
- Has a community feel where people can comment on songs.
Cons:
- The sound quality is not always the best.
- Does not have as much mainstream music.
8. Gaana
Gaana is famous in India just like Apple and Spotify. Along with songs it provides podcasts and live radio as well. Gaana boasts a huge catalog of songs from many regions and languages of India.
Pros:
- Large collection of Bollywood, regional, and international songs.
- Also includes live radio and podcasts.
- Has a voice assistant for hands-free use.
Cons:
- Free version has ads.
- Some users report that the app runs slowly at times.
9. JioSaavn
Developed after the merger of JioMusic and Saavn, JioSaavn boasts a great collection of Bollywood, regional, and even international music. This platform easily caters to speakers of multiple languages and even includes content from exclusive collaborations and original artists.
Pros:
- Huge collection of Indian and international songs.
- Offers exclusive content and original music.
- Jio users get extra benefits like data-free streaming.
Cons:
- Free version has ads.
- Some people find the app difficult to use.
10. Resso
An upcomer in India, Resso seeks to distinguish itself by introducing social features like the comment sections for their favorite music. Resso also offers advanced features such as real-time lyrics syncing.
Pros:
- Has social features like comments and lyrics sharing.
- Suggest playlists based on your music habits.
- Simple and attractive interface.
Cons:
- The music catalog is not as extensive as other music streaming services.
- Free version has ads and limits on features.
Conclusion
All streaming services have unique features to offer. Spotify is most useful when users are looking to discover music, Apple Music is best for sound quality, and Tidal is preferred by audiophiles. Independent artist fans will appreciate SoundCloud the most, while those who enjoy Prime will appreciate Amazon Music Unlimited. Whatever your case may be, there is a suitable service tailored toward you.
FAQs
1. What are the top music streaming applications that do not charge fees?
Spotify, YouTube Music, and SoundCloud provide free versions that are still excellent options despite the presence of ads in such services.
2. What is the most suitable platform regarding audio quality?
Tidal and Apple Music are the best options for audiophiles who seek lossless, high-fidelity sound.
3. Is it possible to listen to downloaded files offline?
Yes. Most streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music allow offline listening for premium subscribers.
4. What is the best service that gives tailored suggestions?
We know that Deezer and Spotify take note of the users’ listening habits and try to personalize their suggestions in the form of an AI algorithm.
5. Are there any music streaming applications in India?
Of course, Indians have JioSaavn and Gaana, which are popular streaming services that offer a wide range of regional music.
