TIDAL review
Hi-res lossless music streaming with detailed credits
- TIDAL
- Subscription
- iPhone & iPad, Android, Mac, Windows, Web
Does it deserve #6?
The verdict
TIDAL is built for listeners who care about audio quality. Its plans include hi-res FLAC and Dolby Atmos, and detailed songwriter and producer credits make it easy to follow the people behind the music. The apps are clean, and TIDAL Connect works with plenty of hi-fi gear. Recommendations trail Spotify's, and there are no podcasts. Get it if sound quality comes first.
- Hi-res FLAC streaming
- Dolby Atmos music
- Detailed artist and producer credits
- TIDAL Connect for hi-fi gear
Score breakdown
Overall = features 30% · design 20% · speed 20% · value 15% · privacy 15%. Why these weights?
What we like
- Hi-res and Dolby Atmos included, no pricier tier
- Credits make it easy to explore producers and writers
- No ads and less data-driven than free rivals
What could be better
- No meaningful free tier
- Weaker recommendations and no podcasts
Audiophiles with good headphones or hi-fi gear who want hi-res streaming
you listen mostly on basic earbuds or want podcasts in the same app
Questions about TIDAL
Is TIDAL free?
TIDAL is built around a paid subscription, usually with a free trial for new members. Any free listening option depends on your country, so check the plans page where you live.
What audio quality does TIDAL offer?
TIDAL streams lossless and hi-res FLAC audio, plus Dolby Atmos on supported devices. You can set streaming and download quality separately in the app's settings.
What are the best alternatives to TIDAL?
The closest alternatives are Apple Music, Spotify and Pocket Casts. See all of them ranked on our TIDAL alternatives page.
Where does TIDAL rank?
TIDAL ranks #6 of 8 in our Music & Podcasts ranking, with an overall score of 8.4 out of 10.