The streaming wars have arrived. With the launch of Apple Music, users now have more options than ever when choosing how to get music online. Last year, for the first time ever, streaming generated more revenue ($1.87 billion) for the Recording Industry Association of America than traditional CD sales, as more and more people go online for their music. With so many services vying for your earbuds, here’s a look at six main platforms and what makes each unique:
###Apple Music
Users: 10.8 million
Gives you integration with your iTunes library—and approval from T-Swift.
###Spotify
Users: 75 million
Spotify’s free tier offers the only ad-funded, on-demand playlists.
###Tidal
Users: 800,000
Tidal’s main selling point is high-fidelity streaming and making Jay-Z even richer.
###Rdio
Users: They won’t say (?!)
Rdio includes arguably the most comprehensive social sharing tools.
###Pandora
Users: 79.2 million
Customized streaming radio based on taste—and un-mutable commercials.
###Vinyl
Users: All of Brooklyn
On the plus side, vinyl albums don’t run ads, and they double as frisbees.
