Spotify Free vs. Premium: My Experience and Opinion

For many music enthusiasts, the choice between Spotify Free and Premium can often be a decision influenced by the features, user experience, and personal budget. I, too, have navigated this journey over several years, trying out both versions of Spotify before making a final decision. In this article, I will share my personal experience and insights on when I upgraded from Spotify Free to Premium and why.

Initial Experience with Spotify Free

As a frequent user of music services during my time in the UK, I decided to take Spotify for a spin. Initially, I opted for the free version and managed to enjoy some of the basic features without any issues. Spotify Free, with its commercials, was functional enough to serve my listening needs, but it certainly had limitations. However, as the platform claims, features like on-the-go listening and offline playback became a significant advantage.

In my efforts to find ways to get a free Spotify premium for a prolonged period, I explored various strategies. Some of these tricks involved using promotional codes, subscribing to premium through student discounts, or waiting for special offers. For roughly six months, I managed to enjoy the premium features of Spotify without directly paying for them. This period allowed me to fully experience what the premium version had to offer, from high-quality audio streaming to exclusive access to ad-free music.

Rational for Upgrading to Premium

Ultimately, after my six-month stint with the free trial, I felt the need to upgrade to the premium version. Although the free service is adequate for casual listening, it may not satisfy the demands of a more serious listener or a music enthusiast who values quality and convenience. Spotify Premium offers several key benefits:

Ad-free listening experience High-quality audio Unlimited skips on songs Unlimited streaming on any device Exclusive features and content

These features made Spotify Premium a more enjoyable and convenient option for me. Moreover, the additional benefits such as offline playback and seamless integration with my studio speakers through the MacOS desktop app added significant value to my listening experience.

Personal Experience and Usage in New Zealand

After moving to New Zealand, my relationship with Spotify Premium evolved further. My new mobile phone contract included premium in the bundle, which provided me with a smoother transition. The continuous support from the premium plan allowed me to explore new artists and discover songs through the desktop app, which runs effortlessly through my studio speakers. This setup has been particularly useful for making musician contacts and collaborating on potential band covers. I have been actively pursuing collaborations and finding new musical ideas, and Spotify has been an invaluable resource for these endeavors.

Evaluating the Value of Spotify Premium

Despite its many advantages, Spotify Premium is not without its drawbacks. The subscription price can be a significant factor for music hobbyists or casual listeners. As a creator myself with three albums on Spotify, I am aware of the minimal payments artists receive per stream. This awareness has led me to seek out other avenues to support artists I enjoy, such as purchasing full albums directly or engaging with their music through social media.

While the financial compensation for artists is a concern, the overall experience that Spotify Premium offers, in terms of sound quality, versatility, and exclusive content, makes it a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize these features. Whether the subscription is a splurge or a necessity depends on the individual's level of engagement with the service and their willingness to support the artists they listen to.

Conclusion

To summarize, after a careful consideration of the pros and cons, my personal experience suggests that Spotify Premium is an excellent option for those who value convenience, high-quality audio, and a seamless streaming experience. However, the decision to subscribe ultimately hinges on budget and the importance placed on these features. Whether you are a casual listener or a dedicated music lover, the choice between Spotify Free and Premium should be based on your specific needs and preferences.