Streaming services have revolutionized the way we enjoy music. Even die-hard audiophiles who swear by physical formats can’t deny the appeal of online platforms. Today, we’ll delve into a comparison of two popular streaming services: Amazon Music and Deezer. So, let’s dive in and explore the pros and cons of each platform.
Amazon Music: A Vast Collection of 100 Million Tracks
With a massive catalog of 100 million tracks, Amazon Music offers an extensive selection for music lovers. As an Alexa user, I found it convenient to sign up for Amazon Music, as it seamlessly integrates with my Alexa device. However, I have encountered some issues with the app’s performance. Navigating through the Amazon Music app proved to be sluggish, and the VoiceOver volume was incredibly low, making it difficult to enjoy the music.
Deezer: A Delightful Musical Journey with 90 Million Tracks
Deezer, with its catalog of over 90 million tracks, presents a compelling alternative to Amazon Music. During my exploration of streaming services, I began a free trial of Deezer Premium. The app proved to be a joy to use, with smooth and responsive navigation. One notable feature that stood out to me was the ability to transfer up to 500 songs from other streaming services, such as Amazon and Spotify. This saved me from having to rebuild my music collection from scratch.
Audio Quality That Leaves a Lasting Impression
When it comes to audio quality, Deezer reigns supreme. The music on Deezer is available in compressed high-quality audio or uncompressed formats, depending on your chosen streaming quality. I was blown away by the exceptional clarity and volume while using my Bose headphones, Apple AirPods Pro, or soundbar. It was so immersive that I had to lower the volume. Creating and editing playlists and searching for songs and artists on Deezer was a breeze, offering a truly accessible experience.
A Word on Pricing and Plans
Although Deezer’s monthly fee of €11.99 is slightly higher than Amazon Music’s, there are discounts available that can bring the cost down to around €9 per month. Additionally, Deezer offers a family plan for €18.99 per month, providing benefits for up to six user accounts. If you’re considering Deezer, I recommend signing up via the Deezer website to avoid higher charges if you choose to pay for the service through an iOS device.
Listening on the Go: Streaming and Offline Options
Both Amazon Music and Deezer allow users to download their favorite songs for offline listening. However, it is essential to consider the storage implications of downloading tracks, particularly if you opt for higher quality streaming options. To manage your data usage effectively, adjust the audio streaming quality in the Deezer app settings according to your internet connection. The available streaming qualities range from Basic (64 kbps) to High Fidelity (1411 kbps FLAC).
Alexa Integration: The Missing Link
One drawback of Deezer is its lack of seamless integration with Alexa and Google Nest devices. While you can play specific songs or music by a particular artist using the Deezer skill on Alexa, adding an entire album to your favorites is not supported. This limitation may be a deal-breaker for heavy Alexa users. If you heavily rely on voice control, Amazon Music or Spotify might be a better fit for you.
The Verdict: Deezer Wins the Battle
Despite the absence of Alexa and Google support, Deezer remains my top choice for music streaming. The app’s responsiveness and user-friendly interface make it a pleasure to use, especially when traveling. Once you experience the unparalleled quality of uncompressed high-quality music, it is challenging to settle for anything less. Moreover, with discounted annual payment options, Deezer proves to be a cost-effective choice. However, if Alexa support is a priority for you, Amazon Music or Spotify may be better suited to your needs.
That concludes our comparison of Amazon Music and Deezer. Happy streaming, and may the music always be with you!
