There are a few great options for incredible hi-res audio now. Apple Music, Deezer, TIDAL, and Qobuz are the front runners. Tidal and Qobuz often come to mind when you talk about audio quality.
That is how they have both positioned themselves in the market. Leaders in sound quality.
With Tidal recently removing their MQA, replacing everything with FLAC, and reducing their prizes, they are more competitive than ever.
Both options have a lot to love, but which should you choose and why?
So, grab your favorite headphones and a snack (we suggest something with an audible crunch, like popcorn or chips, to keep with the high-res theme), and let's dive deep into the intricate world of Qobuz vs Tidal.
We'll look at music quality. We'll also look at library size, interface, price, and other cool features. This will help you make the best choice to keep your eardrums happy!
And if you want to transfer your playlist, remember you can do it with FreeYourMusic. There are many possible transfer combinations. Here are some of them:
Transfer from Qobuz to TIDAL
Transfer from TIDAL do Qobuz
Transfer from Spotify to TIDAL
Transfer from Apple Music to Qobuz
What is Qobuz?
Qobuz is a French music streaming service that prides itself on delivering exceptional high-resolution audio to its users.
Qobuz is a French music streaming service dedicated to music. Their mission, and something they are exceptional at, is audio. Not only do they offer hi-res audio options, but they have a magazine packed with interviews.
You can also buy hi-res digital music from their store (with a 60% discount on their highest tier). They also have the Qobuz club, which has a lot of branded merch. You’ll also find some of the most in-depth audio hardware reviews.
Qobuz was the first music streaming service to offer high-resolution audio. Founded in 2007, it was for audiophiles who wanted the highest sound quality.
Qobuz has built a reputation as a go-to platform for audiophiles. It has an extensive catalog of hi-res tracks and is dedicated to sound quality.
So what does Qobuz offer?
- They offer one of the world's largest hi-res lossless CD quality and regularly offer exclusives and niche genres.
- Offline listening in both tiers.
- Available on every platform: Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, with support for AirPlay, Chromecast, and Bluetooth.
- Hi-Fi compatibility: They can also help you with your analog + digital setup (check their hi-fi mag).
While the UI can feel cluttered, this is because it is decidedly different from the UIs of other streaming services.
What is Tidal?
When it first launched in 2015, TIDAL, like Qobuz, focused on audio quality above all else. The critical differentiator between TIDAL and all other streaming services was that it was artist-owned. This meant that as a streaming platform, it had a different point of view from the others.
Jay-Z is still a majority stakeholder and a member of the board of directors, while Block, formerly known as Square, is the majority owner.
The original co-owners were Kanye West, Madonna, Arcade Fire, Chris Martin of Coldplay, Deadmau5, Rihanna, Jason Aldean, Alicia Keys, Usher, Nicki Minaj, and Beyoncé.
The company will always be the first music streaming platform owned by artists.
Jack Dorsey tweeted about the future of TIDAL, including making it easier for artists to earn money through the platform, including easier merch sales integration, complimentary revenue streams, and collaboration tools (which we have seen in TIDAL Collabs).
TIDAL has put work into creating a toolkit for artists to enhance what they do and how they do it. TIDAL Rising, TIDAL Collabs, and funding those artists to achieve their goals.
A huge 100,000 artists are signed up for Artists Home, and the Rising program has expanded to 106 artists - although it started with just a handful.
They also offer a lot of education, and it's all free - although it might cost money in the future.
So what does TIDAL offer?
- Over 110 million tracks.
- Offline listening on all tiers.
- TIDAL Rising and Collab exclusives.
- 650,000 + music videos.
- Tidal magazine covers various topics, including Features, Conversations, Discover, Culture, and Essays.
- TIDAL DJ with software and hardware integrations, including DEX, Denon DJ, and djay Pro.
- Extensive availability and compatibility.
Now that we know what Qobuz and Tidal are, let the battle begin!
Oh, and don't forget to check out our list of the best hi-res music streaming services for even more eargasmic options!
Qobuz vs Tidal Sound Quality: A Tale of Two Formats
Audiophiles understand that when it comes to music, quality is paramount. In this high-stakes battle of sonic supremacy, let's examine how Qobuz and Tidal measure up in the all-important realm of audio quality.
Qobuz
Proudly wearing the badge of high-resolution audio, Qobuz serves up lossless FLAC streaming at an impressive 24-bit/192kHz. That’s it. Opt for Studio or Sublime; you’ll get the same studio-quality streaming.
Since Qobuz is dedicated to audiophiles, they know you’ll know wired, and a 5G is best. Or you’ll have an analog setup prepped for the quality. Music for streaming and download is something you’re probably keen on.
Tidal
For the last few years, Tidal has been promoting its MQA format, which caused some controversy. Not everyone was convinced by it. By the end of July 2024, MQA will no longer be available, and everything (where possible) in the catalog will be lossless FLAC.
You can listen to Tidal on Low, High, or Max. Low offers up to 320kbps (a mobile data saver), and High is up for 16-bit, 44.1kHz, and FLAC. Max is hi-res FLAC up to 24-bit, 192 kHz, best enjoyed with a wired headset and 5G or stable WiFi.
But which service is better? Qobuz or Tidal?
Opinions From the Field
The debate rages on among users, with some reporting that they are unable to discern a significant difference between Qobuz and Tidal's sound quality. Others passionately advocate for Qobuz, as it sounds better than TIDAL in A/B testing.
TIDAL has been dealing with an undercurrent of annoyance over the MQA format for years. Many people are happy to see it axed, watch this video breakdown.
Now that the playing field is equal in terms of everyone serving up FLAC, it will come down to a very keen ear to tell you any difference. However, your audio setup is going to have an impact here.
Qobuz makes absolutely no bones about it; they press the point that they have the most extensive high-res catalog and are marketed to listeners who are passionate about music. It’s not just passion, though; they will have the hardware to make the most of the available quality.
Their audio is for audiophiles who don’t need to be told that their hardware matters.
TIDAL, on the other hand, has positioned its hi-res FLAC for everyone. Except it isn’t, not really. You still need a good/excellent pair of headphones plugged in to get the Max quality.
And for most people, Bluetooth headphones are the gear of choice, which means you’re not really getting the best quality.
FLAC on FLAC: There is no difference in file type, so the quality is the same without modifications. So what comes next? Your gear. There are plenty of anecdotes from people using high-quality setups who state that, to their ears, Qobuz offers a richer, more immersive sound.
Verdict: Based on user experiences (read as audiophiles), Qobuz has an edge that is present and comes from the mastering and EQ.
Music Library: Quantity vs. Quality
A streaming service's true measure lies in its rich music library. Let's delve into Qobuz and Tidal's catalogs.
Tidal currently states they have a massive 110+ million tracks, while Qobuz lays claim to having the largest catalog of Lossless CD-quality albums.
Qobuz
Directly from the Qobuz Q&A, they state they have over 70 million tracks in every genre. The main page states they have over 100 million tracks with the best sound quality for streaming.
Tidal
Tidal has over 110+ million tracks, and that catalog is, just like other music streaming services, ever-growing. The tracks on Tidal are split across all of their possible listening qualities.
Opinions From the Field
Users acknowledge that Qobuz's library is lacking and there are too many gaps in their catalog. This means that while the Qobuz catalog is extensive, it doesn’t hold the same weight as Tidal.
It's important to note that the size of the catalog isn't the only factor determining the quality of a music streaming service. The curation and selection of tracks within the catalog, as well as the availability of exclusive content, can greatly impact the user experience. TIDAL users appreciate the service's extensive catalog, diverse genres, and original video and live content.
Verdict: We give a point to TIDAL.
Interface & User Experience: Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Musical Journey
A seamless user experience is essential when navigating a streaming service, as it can make or break your musical enjoyment. Let's explore which platform, Qobuz or Tidal, offers audiophiles the smoothest, most satisfying ride.
Qobuz
For many, the Qobuz app interface can feel clunky and littered, but it doesn’t take long to move beyond it. The desktop app is easy to use, and you can easily access your purchases, playlists, and magazine. Their search function is easy to use, and new releases are found with a quick scroll.
The Qobuz mobile app feels like other music streaming apps. The bottom holds navigation buttons, including the magazine. And this is perhaps one of the most exciting parts of the mobile app. Instead of tapping a story and being taken to their website, you can read the articles in the app. You can listen to music while reading interviews or audio equipment reviews.
One area that users felt was lacking was the number of ‘made for you’ options (or lack thereof) that Qobuz had. In comparison, Spotify, Tidal, Apple Music, and Deezer pump a lot more personalized playlists your way.
That said, My Weekly Q, is a Friday release that offers a selection of music discoveries for you.
Like other music streaming options, the more you listen, the better these suggestions get.
With so much AI in play now, getting handpicked playlists is a bit special. New Releases, handpicked by Qobuz, are found as soon as you open the app. 90% of these handpicked new releases will be in Hi-Res, and you will likely find something you have never heard before. Because one thing that Qobuz does incredibly well is niche music.
Tidal
Tidal’s desktop app UI is easy to use. On the left side, you’ll find your playlists and more. Search is easy to navigate, too.
Users note that the desktop and mobile apps are prone to glitching—often stopping for a few seconds, freezing, or taking a while to connect to speaker systems. Not all users experience this, and partly, it can be due to poor internet connections.
The Tidal mobile app is home to the Live feature. You can tap Live, and other people in the region can listen to your playlists.
Both UIs try to make it as easy as possible to find your music, but Tidal offers much more personalization. You’ll find Daily Discovery, Discovery Weekly, 6 Mixes based on your listening preference, a monthly listening round-up, your Most Listened, new track recommendations, and more.
Both Tidal and Qobuz offer a web player, too, with layouts and useability similar to those of the apps. Both mobile apps are available on iOS and Android.
Opinions From the Field
While functional, Qobuz's interface has received mixed feedback from users. Some have mentioned that it is sparse compared to Tidal's more feature-rich and dynamic offering.
Conversely, fans of Qobuz appreciate its simplicity and unwavering focus on high-resolution music.
Overall, Qobuz's interface is generally considered less visually appealing and can sometimes be clunky to navigate.
Ultimately, interface preference is subjective, and some users might prioritize other factors, such as audio quality or music selection, over the user interface. The recommendation is to try out both TIDAL and Qobuz during their free trial periods.
Also, give Qobuz a little more time because once you get beyond the difference between it and other music streaming services, you might appreciate how music-focused it is.
Verdict: This is a split decision. Tidal’s UI is perfect for those who want familiarity but a new platform, while Qobuz is built for music lovers who want more of a hub and less just ‘press play.’
Price: Balancing the Scale of Affordability
Now for the million-dollar question (or more like a few dollars per month): How do these heavyweight streaming services compare in terms of price? Let's break down the numbers and see how Qobuz and Tidal stack up.
Qobuz
Qobuz offers two plans:
Studio: Priced at $12.99/month or $129.99/year, this plan grants unlimited streaming access to their entire catalog, including high-resolution music.
Sublime: Priced at $15.00/month, but for $179.99/year, you can enjoy all the benefits of Studio Premier, along with exclusive (up to 60%) discounts on hi-res downloads. For those who like to own music, this is the best option.
Tidal
Tidal recently reduced its price and offered everyone the same hi-res quality:
Tidal HiFi: For $9.99/month, you can enjoy 110+ million tracks in lossless, hi-res FLAC and Dolby Atmos.
Family: Up to 6 members in the same household can subscribe for $16.99, with all the benefits of an individual subscription. The Family subscription comes with clean playlist options and content curated for children. Each member will also get their own account, with one person owning the subscription.
Student: This is a 50% discounted price for students in education. The $4.99 Student plan comes with everything an Individual has but with curated study playlists for those long study sessions.
DJ Extention: The DJ Extention is $9 monthly, on top of an individual subscription. This top-up comes with catalog access and stem separation with selected DJ partners.
Opinions From the Field
While Qobuz's annual Sublime plan may initially seem like a substantial investment, die-hard audiophiles argue that the exclusive discounts on hi-res downloads make it worthwhile.
On the other hand, Tidal's HiFi plan offers a more budget-friendly option for those keen to explore the world of lossless audio without breaking the bank.
These subscription plans are drastically different. The Qobuz Sublime plan caters to audiophiles who want to own a digital collection and stream music. In contrast, Tidal’s options are catered to the average music streaming enthusiast.
The DJ extension option pushes that particular subscription into the higher bracket, but it is the ‘specialist’ option.
Verdict: For flat our value, and taking the two base subscriptions only, Tidal is the cheaper of the two, with a larger library and the same FLAC hi-res quality.
Device Compatibility: Playing Well with Others in a Connected World
In today's fast-paced, interconnected world, a streaming service needs to be compatible with a wide range of devices, ensuring an uninterrupted, harmonious listening experience across various platforms.
Qobuz
Demonstrating excellent adaptability, Qobuz offers compatibility with numerous devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, network players, and even some high-end DACs (digital-to-analog converters).
Tidal
Tidal also boasts impressive compatibility, working effortlessly with smartphones, tablets, computers, network players, smart TVs, and various home audio systems. Tidal is like that friend who can strike up a conversation with anyone – always ready to make a connection, adapt, and ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience.
TIDAL Connect is a feature that allows users to stream music directly from the TIDAL app to compatible devices. It offers a seamless and convenient way to enjoy TIDAL's high-quality audio on various audio systems and speakers throughout the home. With TIDAL Connect, users can control the playback and selection of music from the TIDAL app on their smartphone or tablet and stream it directly to supported devices.
Opinions From the Field
Users generally prefer TIDAL over Qobuz due to the TIDAL Connect feature.
TIDAL Connect offers several benefits. Firstly, it eliminates the need for additional hardware or complicated setup procedures, as the streaming is done directly from the app to the supported devices. This provides a more streamlined and user-friendly experience.
Additionally, TIDAL Connect ensures that the audio quality is maintained throughout the streaming process. Since the audio signal is transmitted directly from the TIDAL servers to the supported device, it bypasses the limitations that can occur when using Bluetooth or other wireless connections.
Overall, TIDAL Connect enhances the flexibility and convenience of enjoying TIDAL's high-fidelity music by enabling seamless streaming to compatible devices. It expands the listening options and allows users to enjoy their favorite tracks on their preferred audio equipment with ease.
The choice between TIDAL and Qobuz comes down to personal preferences and the specific devices and systems you employ in your pursuit of audio bliss.
Verdict: TIDAL gets a point in this category.
Offline Listening: The Show Must Go On, No Matter What
For those unpredictable moments when Wi-Fi is unavailable or unreliable, it's crucial to have a streaming service that supports offline listening, ensuring your music experience remains uninterrupted.
Qobuz
Understanding the need for continuous access to music, Qobuz allows users to download tracks for offline listening, ensuring that your tunes will keep playing even when you're off the grid.
It's like having a trusty flashlight during a power outage – Qobuz won't leave you in the dark or silence, and your favorite tracks will always be within reach.
Tidal
Similarly, Tidal offers offline listening, ensuring your music stays with you no matter where you are or what obstacles you may face. Tidal's got your back like a loyal friend who shows up with a battery pack when your phone's about to die, ensuring you're never left stranded without a soundtrack.
Opinions From the Field
Users of both Qobuz and Tidal appreciate the offline listening feature, which is essential for those who spend a lot of time on the go or in areas with spotty internet connections. This feature provides a sense of reliability and security, knowing you'll always have access to your music.
So, both Qobuz and Tidal offer robust offline listening capabilities, ensuring that your music experience remains seamless and enjoyable, regardless of location or connectivity. This feature further solidifies their positions as top contenders in the streaming service arena, catering to the diverse needs of music enthusiasts worldwide.
Customer Support: A Helping Hand When You Need It Most
When things go awry or you need some guidance, it's important to know that your streaming service has a responsive customer support team to help you and ensure a smooth experience.
Qobuz
Qobuz offers customer support via email and an online help center, providing assistance for any issues you may encounter. They cover various topics, from technical difficulties to billing inquiries, and are always ready to lend a hand.
The platform's customer support is like having a knowledgeable music guru on speed dial – someone who understands your needs and can quickly provide solutions.
Tidal
Tidal also provides customer support via email and an online help center, ensuring that users have access to help when they need it. The platform's support team is like a dedicated backstage crew, working tirelessly to make sure the show goes on without a hitch.
They're there to address any concerns, troubleshoot problems, and provide guidance on how to get the most out of the platform.
Opinions From the Field
Users generally report satisfactory experiences with both Qobuz and Tidal's customer support teams, appreciating their responsiveness and helpfulness.
Some users note that response times can vary, but this is common for any customer service department, particularly in the fast-paced world of streaming services.
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Ultimately, both Qobuz and Tidal excel in providing reliable customer support, ensuring that users can confidently navigate their platforms and enjoy a hassle-free music streaming experience.
Their commitment to addressing user concerns and offering guidance further cements their status as top contenders in the competitive streaming service market.
Other Important Features: The Devil's in the Details
Let's dive deeper into some other noteworthy features that might tip the scales in favor of one service or the other, making your decision a little bit easier.
Country Availability
Qobuz may have originated in France, but it has expanded to other countries over the years, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and various European nations.
However, it's worth noting that its availability is still somewhat limited compared to its competitor, leaving some music lovers out in the cold.
Tidal, on the other hand, has a more extensive global reach, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Exclusive Content
Both Qobuz and Tidal offer exclusive content that can enrich your music streaming experience. Qobuz boasts an impressive array of high-resolution albums, interviews, and live sessions, catering to the discerning audiophile.
Tidal also features a selection of music videos, exclusive concerts, and behind-the-scenes content for those who like to see their favorite artists in action, making it a multimedia powerhouse.
Some users may find Qobuz's limited country availability a deal-breaker, while others might be swayed by Tidal's exclusive content and broader reach.
Additionally, the appeal of each platform's exclusive offerings can vary depending on individual preferences and tastes.
Considering these additional features can make a difference in your decision-making process. Assessing factors such as country availability and exclusive content can help you determine which service best aligns with your needs, tastes, and location, ultimately leading to a more satisfying and tailored music streaming experience.
Tidal vs Qobuz: And the Winner Is…
After an intense showdown, it's clear that both Qobuz and Tidal have their strengths and weaknesses.
Choosing between these two audiophile favorites ultimately boils down to personal preference, budget, and the features that matter most to you.
If you're a die-hard audio purist who values high-res music above all else, Qobuz might be your perfect match. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more extensive library, exclusive content, and a slightly more budget-friendly option, Tidal could be the right choice for you.
In the end, the best streaming service is the one that makes your ears (and wallet) happiest.
So why not give both Qobuz and Tidal a spin and see which one strikes the right chord with you? After all, there's no harm in dating around a bit before committing to a long-term relationship with a streaming service.
Transfer Your Playlist With FreeYourMusic
Transfer your playlists from any music service to TIDAL (or Qobuz) with FreeYourMusic. It's the ultimate way to ensure a seamless transition, keeping all your favorite tunes at your fingertips.
After all, life's too short to waste time manually rebuilding playlists – let FreeYourMusic do the heavy lifting while you sit back and enjoy the music.
Remember, choosing the perfect streaming service is a personal journey, so don't be afraid to explore your options. With Qobuz and Tidal offering unique features and benefits, the only way to truly know which suits your taste is to give them a test run.
In the world of high-quality streaming services, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. It's like searching for the perfect pair of shoes – you'll know you've found the right fit when it feels like you're walking on air. So, go ahead and take Qobuz and Tidal for a spin, and may the best streaming service win!
