Finding the best music streaming apps in India depends on what you love to listen to, how much you want to spend, and which features matter most to you.
Whether you enjoy Bollywood hits, Telugu melodies, Tamil film songs, Punjabi music, international pop, or independent artists, the right music app can make discovering and enjoying your favorite tracks easier.
Popular music streaming services offer features such as personalized playlists, music recommendations, lyrics, offline downloads, and high-quality audio.
However, not every app provides the same experience. Some focus on music discovery, while others are better suited to regional Indian music, music videos, or lossless audio.
In this guide, we compare the best music streaming apps in India, including Spotify, YouTube Music, JioSaavn, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and Gaana.
We also explain which services are worth considering for free listening, Android and iPhone users, regional-language music, and premium subscriptions.
If you use an Android smartphone, explore our Android apps and tips to discover useful apps, features, and practical tips for getting more out of your device.
By the end, you will know which music app best matches your listening habits and budget.
Quick Comparison of the Best Music Streaming Apps in India
Before choosing a subscription, compare the leading music apps based on their main strengths, free listening options, and offline playback features.
| Music Streaming App | Best For | Free Listening | Offline Downloads | Main Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spotify | Music discovery and personalized playlists | Yes, with limitations | Premium | Personalized recommendations and playlists |
| YouTube Music | Music videos, covers, and remixes | Yes, with limitations | Premium | Music-related videos and hard-to-find performances |
| JioSaavn | Bollywood and regional Indian music | Yes, with limitations | Eligible Pro subscription | Indian-language music discovery |
| Apple Music | High-quality audio | No permanent free tier; trial offers may be available | Subscription | Lossless audio and Spatial Audio |
| Amazon Music | Eligible Amazon Prime members and Alexa users | Depends on the available tier | Depends on subscription | Integration with Amazon services |
| Gaana | An alternative for Indian-language music | Verify current availability | Verify current plan | Additional option for Indian music listeners |
| SoundCloud | Independent artists and remixes | Yes, with limitations | Depends on plan and track | Independent music discovery |
| Audiomack | Emerging artists and selected offline features | Yes, with limitations | Depends on track and feature availability | Music discovery and selected offline listening |
Note: Features and subscription conditions may vary by country, account, device, and plan. Check each service’s current Indian terms before subscribing.
There is no single best music streaming app for everyone. Spotify is a strong option for music discovery, YouTube Music is useful for finding videos and covers, JioSaavn caters to Indian music preferences, and Apple Music appeals to listeners who prioritize lossless audio.
9 Best Music Streaming Apps in India
Choosing the right music streaming app can help you enjoy your favorite songs, discover new artists, and create playlists for every mood.
Here are the 9 best music streaming apps in India, featuring popular platforms with extensive music libraries, personalized recommendations, offline downloads, and different subscription options.
1. Spotify
Best Overall Music Streaming App
Spotify is one of the most popular choices for people who want to discover new music, create playlists, and listen to songs based on their interests. Its recommendation features make it useful for everyday listening, whether you prefer Bollywood music, international pop, rock, electronic music, or relaxing instrumental tracks.
Spotify is available on Android, iPhone, Windows, Mac, web browsers, and various compatible smart devices.
Key Features of Spotify
- Personalized music recommendations based on listening habits.
- Curated playlists for different moods, genres, and activities.
- Music discovery features such as Blend and Daylist, where available.
- Lyrics and artist information for supported tracks.
- Playlist creation and sharing.
- Cross-device listening.
- Offline downloads with eligible Premium plans.
- Podcasts and other audio content in supported markets.
One of Spotify’s main advantages is its ability to help listeners discover artists and songs they might not otherwise find. You can create playlists for studying, exercising, working, travelling, or relaxing.
Spotify Free vs. Spotify Premium
Spotify offers a free listening tier with restrictions that can vary by device, account, and market. Premium plans provide additional benefits, including ad-free music listening and offline downloads.
If you listen to music regularly, Premium may be worthwhile because it offers a more convenient listening experience. Occasional listeners may find the free version sufficient.
Spotify Pricing in India
Spotify offers several subscription options in India. The available plans, promotional prices, and eligibility requirements can change, so check the official Spotify Premium India page before subscribing.
Compare the monthly cost of an individual plan with available student, family, or other eligible options. Do not assume that an introductory offer represents the regular renewal price.
Pros of Spotify
- Excellent personalized playlists and music recommendations.
- Convenient playlist creation and sharing.
- Broad device compatibility.
- Useful music discovery features.
- Free listening option.
Cons of Spotify
- Advertisements and restrictions may affect the free experience.
- Offline downloads require an eligible paid plan.
- Music availability varies by region.
- Advanced audio features may differ from those offered by competing services.
Best for: Listeners who want a reliable music streaming app with personalized recommendations, playlists, and music discovery.
2. YouTube Music
Best for Music Videos, Covers, and Remixes
YouTube Music is a strong choice for people who discover music through videos, live performances, remixes, and cover versions. It combines conventional music streaming with a broad range of music-related content.
The app is particularly useful when you want to explore different versions of a song or find performances that may not be available on other streaming platforms.
Key Features of YouTube Music
- Official songs and music videos.
- Live performances and concert recordings.
- Covers, remixes, and alternative versions.
- Personalized playlists and music recommendations.
- Search features for discovering tracks and artists.
- Compatibility with supported Android, iOS, and web platforms.
- Background playback and offline downloads with eligible subscriptions.
YouTube Music can be especially helpful for Indian listeners who enjoy film songs, independent artists, regional music, and performances uploaded by musicians and other creators.
YouTube Music Free vs. Premium
The free version provides access to music with restrictions and advertisements. Depending on the content and device, playback controls and background listening may also be limited.
YouTube Music Premium adds benefits such as ad-free listening, background playback, and offline downloads, subject to the service’s current terms.
Remember that YouTube Music Premium and YouTube Premium are different subscriptions. YouTube Premium can include additional benefits for watching videos on the main YouTube platform.
YouTube Music Pricing in India
Check the official YouTube Music website for current subscription options and promotional offers in India.
Before purchasing, compare the available individual, student, and family plans where offered. Also check whether a YouTube Premium subscription would provide better overall value for your needs.
Pros of YouTube Music
- Excellent for music videos and live performances.
- Useful for discovering covers and remixes.
- Personalized music recommendations.
- Convenient access across supported devices.
- Free listening option.
Cons of YouTube Music
- Advertisements can interrupt free listening.
- Background playback and offline downloads may require Premium.
- Audio quality varies by recording and playback settings.
- Some features depend on the device and subscription.
Best for: People who enjoy music videos, live performances, remixes, and songs discovered through YouTube.
3. JioSaavn
Best for Bollywood and Regional Indian Music
JioSaavn is worth considering if most of your listening revolves around Indian music. Its catalogue and discovery experience focus on Bollywood songs, regional film music, independent Indian artists, and other music popular with Indian audiences.
It is particularly relevant for people who enjoy Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Punjabi, and other regional-language songs.
Key Features of JioSaavn
- Bollywood and Hindi film music.
- Regional-language music and playlists.
- Indian independent artists.
- Devotional and other culturally relevant music collections.
- Lyrics and personalized recommendations for supported tracks.
- Curated playlists based on language, mood, and genre.
- JioTune features for eligible users.
- Premium listening features through eligible plans.
For example, Telugu music fans can explore playlists featuring film soundtracks, popular singers, and regional releases. The same approach applies to listeners who primarily enjoy Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, or Hindi music.
However, no single streaming service guarantees that every song or version will be available. Search for your favorite artists before choosing a subscription.
JioSaavn Free vs. JioSaavn Pro
JioSaavn provides free and paid listening options subject to current availability and account conditions. The Pro subscription may offer additional benefits, such as ad-free listening and offline playback, depending on the current plan.
Check the latest feature list before assuming that a particular benefit is included.
JioSaavn Pricing in India
Visit the official JioSaavn website or check the app for current subscription prices, promotional offers, and eligible telecom bundles.
If you receive music benefits through a mobile recharge or another subscription, review the applicable terms. Such benefits may not be available to every customer.
Pros of JioSaavn
- Strong focus on Indian music.
- Useful for Bollywood and regional-language discovery.
- Curated playlists for different languages and moods.
- Relevant features for eligible Jio users.
- Free listening options may be available.
Cons of JioSaavn
- Some features require a paid subscription.
- Music availability varies by language and release.
- Free-tier restrictions may affect the listening experience.
- International music discovery may not suit every listener.
Best for: People who primarily listen to Bollywood songs, Telugu music, Tamil film tracks, and other Indian-language music.
4. Apple Music
Best for High-Quality Audio
Apple Music is a strong option for listeners who want an ad-free subscription and access to high-quality audio formats. It offers a large music catalogue, curated playlists, personalized recommendations, and integration with Apple’s devices and services.
Although it works particularly well within the Apple ecosystem, Apple Music is also available on supported Android devices and other compatible platforms.
Key Features of Apple Music
- Lossless audio for supported tracks and devices.
- Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos for compatible content and equipment.
- Curated playlists and personalized recommendations.
- Offline downloads.
- Lyrics for supported songs.
- Integration with Apple devices.
- Apple Music Classical access with eligible subscriptions.
- Support for compatible Android and desktop platforms.
What Is Lossless Audio?
Lossless audio preserves more of the original audio information than lossy compression formats. It can be useful for listeners who want higher technical audio quality.
However, a higher audio specification does not automatically mean everyone will hear a noticeable difference. Your headphones, playback equipment, surroundings, and listening preferences also matter.
For more details, consult Apple’s official lossless audio support guide.
Apple Music Pricing in India
Apple Music offers subscription options that may include individual, student, and family plans. Current prices and eligibility requirements should be checked on the official Apple Music India page.
Unlike services with permanent ad-supported music tiers, Apple Music generally requires a subscription after any eligible trial period.
Pros of Apple Music
- Lossless audio support.
- Spatial Audio for compatible content.
- Ad-free music listening.
- Offline downloads.
- Integration with Apple devices.
- Availability on supported Android devices.
Cons of Apple Music
- No permanent free music-streaming tier.
- A subscription is generally required after the trial.
- Higher-quality audio can consume more data and storage.
- Some audio features require compatible hardware.
Best for: Audiophiles, iPhone users, and listeners who want an ad-free music subscription with lossless audio support.
5. Amazon Music
Best for Eligible Amazon Prime Members
Amazon Music is another option for people who use Amazon services or own Alexa-enabled devices. Its main appeal is the convenience of accessing music through compatible devices and voice commands.
However, the benefits available to Indian customers depend on the specific Amazon subscription and its current terms.
Key Features of Amazon Music
- Music streaming through supported devices.
- Playlists and music recommendations.
- Integration with compatible Alexa-enabled devices.
- Voice-based music controls.
- Access through supported Amazon services.
- Offline listening and other features where included in the subscription.
Is Amazon Music Included with Amazon Prime in India?
Amazon Prime membership may include music-listening benefits, but the available playback features can differ from those offered by a separate music subscription.
Do not assume that Prime automatically provides unrestricted on-demand playback, ad-free listening, or offline downloads. Verify the current Indian terms before purchasing a separate subscription.
Amazon Music Pricing in India
Visit Amazon India and check the current Prime and Amazon Music information for available subscription options and benefits.
If you already pay for Amazon Prime, compare the music benefits you receive with those offered by Spotify, YouTube Music, and JioSaavn. This will help you determine whether an additional subscription is necessary.
Pros of Amazon Music
- Convenient for eligible Amazon Prime members.
- Useful integration with compatible Alexa devices.
- Voice-based playback controls.
- Potential value when bundled with existing services.
Cons of Amazon Music
- Available features depend on the subscription.
- The value varies according to existing memberships.
- Users may prefer competing services for certain music discovery features.
- Current Indian subscription details require verification.
Best for: Existing Amazon customers and users who regularly listen to music through Alexa-enabled devices.
6. Gaana
An Alternative for Indian Music
Gaana is worth investigating as an additional option for people who enjoy Indian music. However, its current availability, subscription structure, and music-streaming features should be verified before you choose it over other services.
If you mainly listen to Hindi songs, regional film music, and Indian playlists, compare Gaana’s current catalogue with JioSaavn and YouTube Music.
Features to Check Before Using Gaana
- Availability of your preferred songs and artists.
- Hindi and regional-language music coverage.
- Playlist creation and recommendations.
- Lyrics and other supported listening features.
- Free listening options, if available.
- Offline downloads and subscription requirements.
Gaana Pricing and Availability
Check the current service information before subscribing. Historical prices and features published in older reviews may no longer apply.
Pay particular attention to whether the service offers a usable free tier, what its paid subscription includes, and whether its catalogue meets your needs.
Pros of Gaana
- An additional service to evaluate for Indian music.
- May suit listeners whose preferred songs are available in its catalogue.
- Provides another option to compare against established streaming services.
Cons of Gaana
- Current access conditions need verification.
- Subscription features may differ from historical offerings.
- Music availability should be checked before committing to a plan.
Best for: Listeners who want to investigate another option for Indian music before choosing a streaming service.
Other Music Streaming Apps Worth Considering
Apart from the major services, some music apps appeal to more specific audiences.
SoundCloud
Best for Independent Artists and Remixes
SoundCloud is useful for discovering independent musicians, emerging artists, DJ sets, remixes, and music shared directly by creators. It can be a good complement to mainstream streaming apps if you enjoy exploring music outside traditional film and commercial releases.
Free listening and other features depend on the track, account, and subscription. Check its current Indian availability and terms before choosing a paid plan.
Audiomack
Worth Exploring for Emerging Music
Audiomack focuses on music discovery and offers selected offline-listening features, depending on the track and current service conditions. It can be useful for exploring emerging artists and music that may be less prominent on mainstream platforms.
Before installing it, confirm that the app and the features you need are available in India.
Which Alternative Should You Choose?
If you primarily listen to Bollywood and regional film music, start by comparing JioSaavn and YouTube Music. If you enjoy independent musicians and remixes, consider SoundCloud. Choose Audiomack only after checking its current catalogue and offline-listening options.
Which Music Streaming App Is Best for Your Needs?
The best music app depends on what you listen to and which features you value most. Use the following recommendations as a starting point rather than a universal ranking.
| Your Requirement | Music App to Consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Best overall music discovery | Spotify | Personalized playlists and recommendations |
| Best for music videos | YouTube Music | Covers, remixes, and live performances |
| Best for Bollywood songs | JioSaavn | Indian film music and localized discovery |
| Best for Telugu songs | JioSaavn or YouTube Music | Regional music discovery and video content |
| Best for Tamil songs | JioSaavn or YouTube Music | Indian-language playlists and music discovery |
| Best for lossless audio | Apple Music | Lossless audio and Spatial Audio support |
| Best for iPhone users | Apple Music | Integration with Apple devices |
| Best for eligible Amazon Prime members | Amazon Music | Potential value from an existing membership |
| Best for independent music | SoundCloud | Independent artists, remixes, and DJ sets |
| Best free listening option | Spotify, YouTube Music, or JioSaavn | Free listening options with service-specific restrictions |
- For Bollywood and regional music: Compare JioSaavn with YouTube Music and search for your favorite singers before paying.
- For music discovery: Spotify is worth considering if you want personalized playlists and recommendations.
- For music videos and covers: YouTube Music offers a convenient way to discover performances and alternative versions of songs.
- For high-quality audio: Apple Music is a strong option if lossless playback matters to you.
- For budget-conscious listeners: Compare free tiers and the regular renewal price of paid subscriptions. The cheapest option is not necessarily the best if it lacks your favorite music or the features you need.
Free vs. Paid Music Streaming Apps in India
Many users search for free music apps in India because they want to enjoy songs without paying a monthly subscription. Free tiers can be useful, but they often include advertisements or restrictions on playback.
What Do Free Music Apps Offer?
Depending on the service, free listening may include:
- Access to selected songs and playlists.
- Advertisements during playback.
- Basic music recommendations.
- Limited playback controls on certain devices.
- Restrictions on background playback.
- Limited or unavailable offline downloads.
Spotify, YouTube Music, and JioSaavn are options to investigate if you want free music streaming. Their current restrictions and features should be checked before choosing one.
Are Paid Music Subscriptions Worth It?
A paid subscription may be worthwhile if you listen to music every day or want greater control over playback.
Common premium benefits include:
- Ad-free music listening.
- Offline downloads.
- More playback controls.
- Higher-quality audio options where supported.
- Additional features depending on the service.
For example, someone who listens during a daily commute may appreciate offline downloads, while a casual listener may be comfortable using a free tier.
How to Choose an Affordable Music Subscription
Start by comparing the regular subscription prices rather than relying on introductory offers. Check whether student or family plans are available and review their eligibility requirements.
If you already pay for a service that includes music benefits, check what you receive before buying another subscription. A bundled plan can be more economical, but only when its included features match your needs.
What to Look for in a Music Streaming App
Before downloading a music app or paying for a subscription, evaluate the features that matter most to you.
1. Music Library and Language Support
The size of a music catalogue is not the only important factor. The service should include the artists, songs, albums, and versions you actually want to hear.
For Indian listeners, regional-language coverage can be particularly important. Look for Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, Punjabi, Bengali, and Marathi music, depending on your preferences.
Search for your favorite singers and songs on a free tier or trial before subscribing.
2. Audio Quality
Audio quality affects how music sounds, but the best choice depends on your equipment and listening preferences.
Some services provide different streaming-quality settings, while Apple Music supports lossless audio for compatible tracks. Spatial Audio is another feature available for selected content and supported equipment.
Remember that lossless audio can consume more data and storage than compressed streaming. Most casual listeners should prioritize a stable connection, a good catalogue, and convenient playback before paying extra for advanced audio features.
3. Offline Downloads
Offline downloads allow you to listen without a continuous internet connection. This is particularly useful when travelling, commuting, or listening in areas with unreliable connectivity.
However, downloads are generally stored within the music app rather than provided as unrestricted audio files. Access may depend on an active subscription, periodic online verification, and music licensing conditions.
Check these requirements before relying on offline playback.
4. Free Listening and Advertisements
A free tier may be enough if you listen occasionally. However, advertisements and playback restrictions can affect the experience.
If you listen for several hours a day, a paid subscription may offer greater convenience. Compare the restrictions of each service rather than assuming every free plan works in the same way.
5. Personalized Recommendations
Personalized recommendations can help you discover songs, singers, and genres that match your interests.
Spotify emphasizes personalized playlists and discovery, while YouTube Music can be particularly useful for exploring music videos and alternative performances. JioSaavn also provides ways to discover Indian music through playlists and language-based collections.
The best recommendation system is ultimately the one that works well with your listening habits.
6. Device Compatibility
Check whether your chosen service works with your Android phone, iPhone, Windows computer, web browser, smart TV, car system, or smart speaker.
Spotify and YouTube Music support multiple platforms, while Apple Music is also available beyond Apple’s own devices. Amazon Music may be particularly convenient if you use compatible Alexa-enabled hardware.
Compatibility can vary by device and region, so verify the relevant features before subscribing.
7. Subscription Price and Family Plans
Compare the regular monthly and annual costs, where offered. Also review student eligibility, family-sharing requirements, trial conditions, and renewal prices.
If you are choosing a music app for students or a household, compare the total cost of an eligible shared plan with the cost of individual subscriptions.
Do not select a service based only on a temporary promotional offer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Music Streaming Apps in India
Which is the best music streaming app in India?
There is no single best music streaming app for everyone. Spotify is worth considering for personalized recommendations, YouTube Music for videos and live performances, JioSaavn for Indian and regional music, and Apple Music for lossless audio. Compare their current prices, music catalogues, and free-tier restrictions before choosing a service.
Which music streaming apps are free in India?
Spotify and JioSaavn offer free listening options, although advertisements and playback restrictions may apply. YouTube Music also provides a free listening experience with limitations. Apple Music generally requires a subscription after any eligible trial. Check each service’s current Indian terms because free features can change.
Which is the best app for Bollywood songs?
JioSaavn is a strong option for listeners who primarily enjoy Bollywood songs and Indian-language music. Spotify and YouTube Music are also worth comparing because they offer personalized playlists and music discovery. The best choice depends on your favorite artists, preferred versions of songs, and the features you need.
Which music app is best for Telugu songs?
JioSaavn and YouTube Music are good starting points for Telugu music. Compare their catalogues for Telugu film songs, independent releases, devotional tracks, and older recordings. Search for your favorite singers and composers before subscribing, as availability can differ between services and individual tracks.
Is Spotify free in India?
Yes, Spotify offers a free listening tier in India, subject to its current terms and playback restrictions. Premium subscriptions add benefits such as ad-free listening and offline downloads. Review Spotify’s official India pricing page for current plans, promotional offers, and eligibility requirements before purchasing a subscription.
Which music app has the best audio quality?
Apple Music is a strong choice for listeners seeking lossless audio and Spatial Audio. However, the practical difference depends on the recording, playback device, headphones, and listening environment. Spotify and other services may be sufficient for everyday listening. Check supported audio formats and plan restrictions before deciding.
Can I download songs and listen offline?
Yes, several music streaming services support offline listening through eligible subscriptions. Spotify, Apple Music, and other services offer downloads under their respective terms. Downloaded songs generally remain inside the app rather than becoming unrestricted MP3 files. Check the subscription requirements and offline playback conditions for your chosen service.
Which music streaming app is best for Android?
Spotify, YouTube Music, JioSaavn, and Apple Music are all options for Android users. The best app depends on your music preferences, device compatibility, subscription budget, and desired features. Apple Music is also available on supported Android devices, so it is not limited to iPhone o
Is Apple Music better than Spotify?
Apple Music may be a better choice if you prioritize lossless audio, Spatial Audio, and integration with Apple devices. Spotify may suit listeners who value personalized recommendations, collaborative playlists, and music discovery. Compare the current subscription prices, supported features, and catalogue availability to determine which service better fits your needs.
Is Amazon Music included with Amazon Prime in India?
Amazon Prime membership can include access to Amazon Music, but the available features depend on the current Indian subscription terms. Do not assume that every Prime member receives unrestricted on-demand playback, ad-free listening, or offline downloads. Check Amazon India’s official subscription details before purchasing a separate music plan.
Which is the cheapest music streaming app in India?
The cheapest music streaming app depends on the current subscription prices, available promotional offers, and whether you qualify for a student or family plan. Compare the regular renewal prices of Spotify, JioSaavn, Apple Music, and other available services. If you only listen occasionally, a free tier may be the most economical option.
Which music app is best for offline listening?
Spotify, Apple Music, and other eligible services support offline listening through their respective subscriptions. The best option depends on your preferred music catalogue, device, and subscription budget. Before downloading songs, check whether offline playback requires an active subscription and whether the tracks remain available when your device is disconnected.
Is YouTube Music better than Spotify?
YouTube Music is particularly useful for discovering music videos, covers, remixes, and live performances. Spotify is a strong option for personalized playlists and music discovery. Both services offer free listening with restrictions and paid subscriptions. Compare their catalogues, playback features, and current Indian prices to decide which one suits you better.
Can I use Apple Music on an Android phone?
Yes, Apple Music is available on supported Android devices. You can use it to access music, playlists, and eligible subscription features without owning an iPhone. Check the app’s current system requirements and subscription terms before installing it. Apple Music may be especially attractive if you prioritize lossless audio.
Final Verdict: Which Is the Best Music Streaming App in India?
The best music streaming app in India depends on your listening habits, preferred languages, and budget. Spotify is a strong all-round option for personalized recommendations, YouTube Music is useful for videos and remixes, and JioSaavn is worth considering for Bollywood and regional Indian music.
If you prioritize lossless audio and an ad-free subscription, Apple Music deserves a closer look. Amazon Music may be convenient if you already have eligible Amazon Prime benefits, while SoundCloud is useful for discovering independent artists.
Before choosing a paid plan, search for your favorite songs, compare the available features, and check the current subscription price. If a free tier meets your needs, there is no reason to pay for features you rarely use.
Our recommendation: Start with Spotify for music discovery, YouTube Music for music videos, or JioSaavn for Indian-language music. Choose Apple Music if lossless audio is a priority.
For more technology recommendations and helpful tutorials, explore our computers and mobile technology guides covering devices, apps, and useful digital tools.
The right music app is the one that gives you access to the songs you love, offers the features you need, and fits comfortably within your budget.
