Music lovers and Apple fans alike have been buzzing about the differences between iTunes and Apple Music. With so many options for streaming, downloading, and purchasing music, it can be difficult to determine which service is right for you.
iTunes is a software application for organizing and playing digital music and videos on personal computers running on the macOS and Microsoft Windows operating systems. The application can also be used on iOS devices such as iPhones, iPads, and iPods touch. Whereas, Apple Music is a streaming service that offers access to over 50 million songs. It’s available on iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, and Sonos.
Here we’ll break down the key features of both iTunes and Apple Music – so whether you’re a casual listener or a serious audiophile, you’ll know exactly which platform suits your needs.
iTunes vs Apple Music
| iTunes | Apple Music |
|---|---|
| iTunes is a media player and music store that offers users the ability to purchase and download individual songs. | Apple Music is a music streaming service that allows users to stream millions of songs and access personalized recommendations and playlists. |
| Users can also access their personal music collections on their devices through the iTunes software. Access to the music library is limited. | It offers unlimited access to millions of songs. Users can stream any song from the service’s vast catalog, without having to purchase or download it. |
| iTunes provides limited options such as personal collections and charts. Users can create their own playlists and browse through iTunes’ charts. | Apple Music provides personalized recommendations and playlists based on users’ listening habits, and also offers curated playlists by music experts. |
| There is no social features in itunes.Users cannot connect with friends or artists, and share playlists. | This allows users to connect with friends and artists, share playlists, and see what their friends are listening to. |
| iTunes allows users to purchase songs or albums individually, which means that the cost of music on iTunes can vary depending on the song. | Apple Music requires a monthly subscription fee, which gives users unlimited access to the service’s entire music library. |
| As for availability, iTunes is available on both Mac and Windows devices. | This is available on a wider range of platforms, including Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, and web. |
Advantages of iTunes over Apple Music
There are several advantages of using iTunes over Apple Music. For one, iTunes is less expensive than Apple Music. With iTunes, you can buy individual songs or albums for a lower price than you would pay for a monthly subscription to Apple Music.
Another advantage of iTunes is that you own the music you purchase. This means you can keep the music even if you cancel your subscription to Apple Music. With Apple Music, on the other hand, you only have access to the music as long as you continue to pay for the service.
iTunes also offers a larger selection of music than Apple Music. And, if you have an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, you can sync your music library across all of your devices using iTunes. This is not possible with Apple Music.
Disadvantages of iTunes over Apple Music
There are a few key disadvantages of using iTunes over Apple Music. Firstly, iTunes is only available on Mac and PC, whereas Apple Music is available on both iOS and Android devices. Secondly, iTunes can be quite slow and clunky to use compared to the sleek interface of Apple Music. Finally, iTunes doesn’t offer a family plan like Apple Music does, so if you’re looking to share your music with others, you’ll need to sign up for individual plans.
Features of both platforms
Both iTunes and Apple Music offer a variety of features that appeal to users. iTunes has existed for longer, so it has a more established user base and features. Apple Music is newer, so it doesn’t have as many features but constantly expands its offerings.
iTunes offers a comprehensive music library with over 50 million songs. It also has a large selection of movies and TV shows. You can buy or rent these movies and shows directly from iTunes. In addition, iTunes offers app downloads, audiobooks, and podcasts. One downside of iTunes is that it can be difficult to use if you’re unfamiliar with computers.
Apple Music also has a comprehensive music library with over 60 million songs. It’s constantly expanding its selection of movies and TV shows. However, you can only stream these movies and shows; you can’t download them directly like you can with iTunes. Apple Music also offers exclusive content, such as live concerts and behind-the-scenes footage. Another downside of Apple Music is that it requires a subscription; you can’t access the full library without paying for the service.
Key differences between iTunes and Apple Music
iTunes and Apple Music are both music streaming services developed by Apple. However, there are some key differences between the two that may make one a better choice for you than the other.
iTunes is a media player that can be used to purchase, download, and play digital music and video files. It can also be used to sync music and other media files to iOS devices such as iPhones and iPad. Apple Music is a streaming service that offers access to a catalog of millions of songs, as well as ad-free radio stations and exclusive content. It can be used on iOS devices, as well as Mac, PC, and Android devices.
So, which should you choose? If you’re primarily interested in purchasing and downloading individual tracks or albums, then iTunes is the better option. However, Apple Music is the better option if you’re more interested in streaming music from a library of millions of songs.
Which one is right for you? iTunes or Apple Music
So, which one should you choose? Well, it depends on what you’re looking for. If you want to be able to purchase and download individual songs or albums, then iTunes is the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a subscription-based service that will give you access to a large library of music, then Apple Music is the better option.
After exploring the differences between iTunes and Apple Music, it is clear that they offer different services to their users. Both have their benefits depending on what you are looking for from a music streaming service.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference: if you want an online store with exclusive app downloads and access to your own library of content, then iTunes is worth considering; however, if seamless integration with all of your Apple devices is more important than anything else – then Apple Music has you covered.
