YouTube Music alternatives: 5 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave YouTube Music: no lossless or hi-res audio, and free tier restricts background playback on mobile. We ranked 5 alternatives by how directly each one replaces YouTube Music, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. Spotify currently ranks first.
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Show all 5 alternativesThe best YouTube Music alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best YouTube Music alternative for most people
SpotifyStronger personalised playlists and a proper desktop app.
Best YouTube Music alternative for a free plan you can upgrade
SoundCloudAnother home for remixes, DJ edits and independent uploads.
Best YouTube Music alternative for Mac
Apple MusicLossless and Dolby Atmos included in the subscription.
Best YouTube Music alternative for Windows
Amazon MusicLossless with Unlimited, and some access already included with Prime.
Best YouTube Music alternative for iPhone and Android
DeezerFree tier plus lossless on paid plans and easy playlist transfer.
Best YouTube Music alternative for working in the browser
SpotifyStronger personalised playlists and a proper desktop app.
YouTube Music alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to YouTube Music?
Spotify ranks first right now. Stronger personalised playlists and a proper desktop app. Apple Music and SoundCloud follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to YouTube Music?
Yes. Spotify (free plan + paid), SoundCloud (free plan + paid), Amazon Music (free plan + paid) and Deezer (free plan + paid) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to YouTube Music?
None of the 5 alternatives in this list is open source.
Why do people switch from YouTube Music?
The complaints we hear most: no lossless or hi-res audio; free tier restricts background playback on mobile; no official desktop app.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces YouTube Music, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.