Introduction
When it comes to digital music and radio streaming, two names often stand out: Spotify and iHeartRadio. On the surface, both allow you to enjoy music on demand, create playlists, and listen across devices. But their core missions are quite different. Spotify focuses on being the world’s most comprehensive on-demand music streaming platform, while iHeartRadio leans heavily into live radio, curated stations, and podcasts.
With Spotify reaching over 602 million active users worldwide in 2024 (Statista) and iHeartRadio claiming more than 150 million registered users primarily in the United States, both platforms have carved out unique audiences. The real question is: which one is the right choice for you?
This article breaks down Spotify vs iHeartRadio in detail, looking at features, pricing, music catalogs, usability, and more to help you make the best decision.
Spotify vs iHeartRadio: Key Differences
Before diving deeper, let’s outline the fundamental distinctions:
Spotify: Global streaming giant with over 100 million tracks, highly personalized algorithms, and strong playlist culture.
iHeartRadio: U.S.-based service centered around live AM/FM radio, local stations, podcasts, and curated playlists.
Spotify excels at personalization and depth of library, while iHeartRadio appeals to users who love the experience of traditional radio combined with modern streaming flexibility.
Music Library and Content
Spotify
Spotify boasts over 100 million tracks and around 5 million podcasts. It is best known for its personalized recommendations, including Discover Weekly, Release Radar, and Daily Mixes. For users who like to explore new artists, Spotify’s catalog is unmatched.iHeartRadio
iHeartRadio does not operate as a typical on-demand streaming service. Instead, it provides access to live AM/FM radio stations across the U.S., curated artist radio channels, and an extensive podcast library. While iHeartRadio has a large range of content, it does not offer the same depth of individual songs on-demand unless you subscribe to iHeartRadio Plus or All Access.
Verdict: If you want full control and access to nearly every song, Spotify wins. If you prefer curated experiences and live radio, iHeartRadio has the edge.
User Experience and Interface
Spotify
The interface is sleek, minimal, and consistent across devices. Spotify is designed for on-demand discovery. Users can search for any track, album, or artist instantly. Its algorithm-driven playlists make it highly addictive for music discovery.iHeartRadio
The interface leans toward a radio-style layout. Instead of searching for individual songs, users often tune into stations, whether it’s a local FM broadcast or an artist-inspired channel. It feels more like traditional radio with the added benefit of streaming flexibility.
Verdict: Spotify caters to users who want control, while iHeartRadio feels more like radio listening.
Pricing and Subscription Plans
Spotify
Free Plan: Ad-supported, shuffle-only on mobile, unlimited on desktop.
Premium Individual: $10.99/month.
Premium Duo: $14.99/month (for 2 users).
Premium Family: $16.99/month (up to 6 users).
Premium Student: $5.99/month.
iHeartRadio
Free Plan: Unlimited access to live radio stations and podcasts (ad-supported).
iHeartRadio Plus: $4.99/month – allows skipping tracks, saving songs, and replaying.
iHeartRadio All Access: $9.99/month – adds full on-demand access similar to Spotify.
Verdict: For users who want affordability with radio-style content, iHeartRadio Plus is attractive. For serious music lovers who want full catalog control, Spotify Premium remains the better investment.
Podcasts and Radio
Spotify
Spotify has invested heavily in podcasting, acquiring Gimlet Media, The Ringer, and exclusive shows like The Joe Rogan Experience. It has become one of the largest podcast platforms in the world.iHeartRadio
iHeartRadio owns the iHeartPodcast Network, the No. 1 commercial podcast publisher in the U.S. It features a wide variety of shows, including true crime, sports, and lifestyle. For radio lovers, iHeartRadio integrates live local stations, which Spotify cannot provide.
Verdict: If you prefer live radio and traditional broadcasts, iHeartRadio shines. If you want podcasts plus global reach, Spotify has a stronger ecosystem.
Offline Listening
Spotify Premium users can download songs, albums, and playlists for offline playback on up to five devices.
iHeartRadio All Access users can also save tracks for offline listening, but only songs that were replayed from live radio or recommended playlists.
Verdict: Spotify offers a more flexible offline experience.
Global Availability
Spotify: Available in 180+ countries worldwide.
iHeartRadio: Primarily available in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Verdict: Spotify dominates when it comes to international reach, while iHeartRadio is limited mostly to North America.
Pros and Cons
Spotify Pros:
Huge global catalog (100M+ tracks).
Personalized playlists and discovery features.
Strong podcast integration.
Available worldwide.
Spotify Cons:
More expensive than iHeartRadio Plus.
Heavy algorithm reliance may feel repetitive.
iHeartRadio Pros:
Free access to live AM/FM radio.
Affordable premium tiers.
Strong podcast network.
Best for U.S.-based listeners who want local radio.
iHeartRadio Cons:
Limited global availability.
Smaller on-demand catalog compared to Spotify.
Less control over track selection in the free tier.
FAQs
1. Which is better for music discovery, Spotify or iHeartRadio?
Spotify’s personalized playlists and algorithm-driven recommendations make it superior for discovering new songs and artists.
2. Can you listen to live radio on Spotify?
No, Spotify does not offer live radio. iHeartRadio is designed for that purpose.
3. Which is cheaper, Spotify or iHeartRadio?
iHeartRadio Plus costs $4.99/month, cheaper than Spotify Premium ($10.99/month). However, Spotify offers a much larger on-demand catalog.
4. Does iHeartRadio work outside the U.S.?
Yes, but only in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Spotify works in over 180 countries.
5. Which platform has better podcasts?
Both are strong, but Spotify’s exclusive shows and acquisitions give it a slight edge in global podcasting.
Conclusion
When comparing Spotify vs iHeartRadio, the choice largely depends on your listening habits. If you want full control, endless music on demand, and global access, Spotify is the clear winner. If you prefer live radio, curated experiences, and affordability, iHeartRadio is the better fit.
For most music lovers, Spotify Premium offers unmatched variety and flexibility. But for radio fans or casual listeners who want something closer to traditional broadcasting, iHeartRadio Plus or All Access delivers strong value.
