Unlike Apple Music, Spotify also offers a free ad-supported option. Free users can stream songs on demand using Spotify’s desktop and web apps. Through the mobile app, free users can listen to playlists and stations, and stream a small, rotating selection of songs on-demand.

The two services use different types of compression when transmitting music, but according to Elias Arias, Consumer Reports' project leader for audio testing, listeners are unlikely to hear a difference.

“Casual listeners will probably be happy with the sound quality of either service,” Arias says. “If you’re a highly critical listener with top-notch equipment, you may want to try both to see which you prefer, or try a service that will stream uncompressed files, like Tidal.”  //

Like most major streaming services, Spotify and Apple Music grant users access to a large library of music. Apple Music says it has 50 million songs, and Spotify says it offers a selection of more than 35 million songs. //

In most respects, Apple Music works just as well as Spotify. It has a few perks of its own, and it’s the obvious choice if you’re already locked into the Apple ecosystem.

But overall, I found Spotify to have a slight edge. It often works better on non-Apple devices and at least as well on Apple products—excluding the HomePod smart speaker.

For people who want a service that transitions seamlessly among devices, operates as a hub for music and podcasts, and consistently serves up fresh recommendations for tunes, Spotify may be the best bet.