Spotify is arguably the world’s most popular music streaming service. It’s got masses of content and a simple-to-use interface that allows for seamless sharing and integration with other apps.
Additionally, Spotify can be used as a purely web-based service on any computer with a working internet connection. You don’t have to download the desktop software to enjoy the music.
So what are the differences?
What are the pros and cons of using Spotify’s web player as opposed to the app for a smartphones? I decided to spend my Saturday afternoon figuring all this out, so you don’t have to. So, let’s get started.
But, before we begin, I’m sure that avid Mac users are glad to know that Spotify recently made the move to support Safari again. If you didn’t know that, rejoice! Therefore, all the tips and tricks that I’ll be talking about in this article on the Spotify Web Player should be almost identical on either browser.
What is Spotify’s Web Player?
The web player for Spotify is a way for you to enjoy the Spotify service wherever you are, as long as you have an account. It’s a website where, once you’ve logged in, you can enjoy all the features the app normally provides without having to download anything.
This includes all your personal content like the songs that you’ve liked, artists that you follow, and playlists that you’ve made.
How To Use Spotify’s Web Player
The Spotify web player could not be more simple to access. Simply go to open.spotify.com and use the same credentials you always use to log in to your account.
Once you’ve done this, there will be a large “Open Web Player” button in the middle of the screen; click on it. Now you will see a screen that should look very familiar; the interface will be almost identical to the Spotify app.
One or two things might be arranged a bit differently. But, if you take a minute or two to get familiar with it, you’ll be able to get going in no time. If you’ve ever used the Spotify app before, this will be a cinch.
Should You Use the Web Player or the Spotify App?
This question does not have a definite answer. Many users prefer to use the app, while other users mainly use the web player. However, most users make use of both depending on where they are and what’s available around them.
For premium Spotify users, sound quality will be better on the app, and you also can download songs for offline listening. But I’ll get to that in a bit.
Depends on how many gadgets you use…
If you are going to be using just one device for all your listening, you should download the Spotify app. Whether this device is a phone, tablet, or PC, the app will give the best experience.
On the other hand, if you move around a lot and use multiple devices or shared devices, the web player will be the way to go.
What are the Differences Between the Web Player and the App
Even though both options may seem fairly similar, there are some key differences that you should take note of.
Firstly, there is the sound quality difference. Using the Spotify app will yield a maximum bitrate of 320kbps, whereas using Spotify’s web player will limit you to 256kpbs.
The app also allows access to adjust the quality to your taste. You can make use of metered usage settings and more that are not available in the web player.
The most appealing difference about the app…
You can download songs for offline listening. If you’re a premium user, the Spotify app allows you to download songs, playlists, and entire podcasts to your device so you can listen to them in offline mode.
The web player does not allow this functionality even if you’re a premium subscriber. That said, the biggest pros in favor of the web player are ease of use and portability.
Can You Use Spotify’s Web Player on a Smartphone?
Yes, you can access the web player on your smartphone’s browser. Furthermore, any smart device with an internet browser can do so. I would recommend sticking to the app on your smart devices, though. That’s because the user experience is likely to be better.
Using Spotify on Your Computer at Work
Noting helps to lift the mood at your desk when you’ve still got six hours to go like your favorite new anthem. A bit of music can be so relaxing or distracting for a few minutes when you need it to be.
Unfortunately, many corporate computers are locked down so that nothing can be downloaded or installed. This means the Spotify app is a no-go.
Luckily, the web player is allowed by most. Therefore, you should not have an issue logging in and enjoying your content.
What Spotify Apps are Available?
The app is available for all Windows, Apple, and Linux devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. It is important to note that while the Linux app is maintained and updated by the Spotify Development Team, it does not have dedicated support.
This is because many users said they wanted to listen to Spotify on their Linux Dev Machines. Oh, those Linux folks.
Smart Home AI’s, like Siri and Alexa, are also compatible with Spotify. After testing it with both, I have to say it works flawlessly. The app has now even crossed over to TVs, smartwatches, gaming consoles, and cars.
Spotify’s Web Player on Safari
For a while, there were major issues with using Spotify’s web player on the Safari browser. But, in recent months, the Development Team has been hard at work, and I am happy to say that the issues are gone.
Now, Spotify can seamlessly be used with Safari. And it works just as well as it does on all the other browsers.
Want to Learn More About Spotify’s Service?
We can help with that. Take a look at our detailed articles on Free Spotify vs Spotify Premium, YouTube Music vs Spotify, Spotify vs Pandora, Amazon Music HD vs Spotify Premium, and Tidal vs. Spotify for more information about music streaming services.
You’ll want to listen to all that music, right? So, check out our in-depth reviews of the Best Wireless Bluetooth Headphones, the Best Bluetooth Headphones Under $100, the Best Headphones for Music, and the Best Headphones Under $200 you can buy in 2023.
Plus, don’t miss our comprehensive reviews of the Best True Wireless Earbuds, the Best Sound Quality Earbuds, the Most Comfortable Earbuds, the Best Noise Isolating Earbuds, and the Best iPhone Earbuds currently on the market.
The Spotify Web Player – Conclusion
Spotify is easily the biggest music streaming service in the world. And, using it on whichever device you choose is as easy and simple as you could wish for. Spotify offers the web player for convenience when using a lot of different devices which may not always belong to you.
But, if you want to get the most out of a Spotify subscription, download the app for better quality and downloading for offline listening. Whichever you choose, Spotify will maintain and suggest your music needs 24-7.
Until next time, happy listening.