The music streaming landscape has shifted dramatically over the years, and 2025 brings new contenders and challenges to the forefront. Engadget’s senior reporter, Jeff Dunn, recently analyzed the leading music streaming platforms, putting them through extensive testing to determine their strengths and weaknesses. His findings reinforce a long-standing reality—while each platform has unique advantages, none are perfect, particularly regarding fair artist compensation.
### Choosing the Best Music Streaming Service in 2025
No single streaming service excels in every aspect. The right choice depends on factors such as audio quality, music discovery, device integration, and pricing. Dunn’s evaluation highlights the best options for different types of listeners.
Apple Music remains the top pick for Apple users, offering high-resolution lossless audio at no additional cost. Its seamless integration with Apple devices makes it a natural choice for those immersed in the Apple ecosystem. However, the absence of a free tier and weaker support for non-Apple platforms make it less appealing to those outside that environment.
For audiophiles, Qobuz stands out by delivering some of the best high-resolution lossless streaming available. The platform also distinguishes itself with in-depth album reviews and editorial content catering to serious music fans. While it comes at a premium price, Dunn argues that its unrivaled sound quality makes it a worthy investment for dedicated listeners.
YouTube Music thrives by offering access to rare tracks, live performances, and remixes that other platforms often lack. Bundled with YouTube Premium, it becomes an even more attractive option for users who want an ad-free video experience. Dunn acknowledges its drawbacks, stating, “The messy user interface and lack of lossless audio may frustrate some users, but its vast catalog keeps it in the conversation.”
Spotify remains the most universally accessible service, excelling in social and discovery features. Playlists like Discover Weekly and artist radio stations keep users engaged, while collaborative tools enhance group listening experiences. However, Dunn criticizes the company’s failure to introduce a long-promised HiFi tier, a noticeable shortcoming in a market increasingly focused on high-quality audio.
Tidal offers a balance between high-quality streaming and ethical artist compensation. It provides lossless high-resolution audio like Qobuz but also includes music videos and exclusive content. Tidal’s revenue model, which directs more earnings to artists, makes it a more ethical choice than platforms like Spotify. However, Dunn notes that its recommendation algorithm is not as sophisticated as Spotify’s, making it less effective in music discovery.
### What This Means for Listeners
With so many factors at play, choosing a streaming service is more challenging than ever. Listeners must consider whether sound quality, affordability, or catalog diversity matters most. Apple Music is ideal for Apple users, while Qobuz and Tidal cater to audiophiles seeking superior sound fidelity. Those who prioritize music discovery or social sharing may find Spotify most appealing, whereas YouTube Music offers the most extensive and diverse catalog, including niche and unofficial releases.
Beyond choosing the right platform, Dunn raises a broader issue—rising subscription costs and stagnant artist compensation. Although streaming services continue to increase their rates, artist payment structures remain largely unchanged, perpetuating a long-standing concern in the industry.
### The Verdict: No One-Size-Fits-All Solution
Ultimately, the best streaming service depends on individual preferences. Whether you prioritize audio quality, catalog size, ease of use, or ethical concerns, there’s a platform that fits your needs. However, while streaming services continue to dominate how people access music, significant industry-wide changes—particularly in artist compensation—have yet to materialize. As pricing changes and the market evolves, listeners will need to remain informed to ensure they choose the right platform for their needs.