How to Download Music from Spotify: The Ultimate Guide for Mobile, Desktop & Mac
Listen to your favorite music anytime, anywhere.
Introduction
Downloading music from Spotify can be a game-changer, especially when you’re offline, traveling, or looking to save data. Whether you’re using a smartphone, desktop, or Mac, this all-in-one guide will walk you through legal and safe ways to download Spotify music.
We’ll cover mobile and desktop steps, answer frequently asked questions, share tips to optimize your storage, and explain why some downloading tools should be avoided. Plus, we’ll introduce useful automation tools to supercharge your music experience.
Legal Methods to Download Spotify Music
Spotify Premium: What You Get
| Feature | Free Version | Premium Version |
|---|---|---|
| Download Songs | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Download Podcasts | ✅ Yes Limited | ✅ Yes |
| Offline Listening | ❌ Limited | ✅ Full Access |
| Maximum Downloads per Device | N/A | 10,000 songs |
| Number of Devices Supported | 1 | 5 |
| Must Reconnect Every 30 Days | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
What Format Are Downloads In?
Spotify uses the OGG Vorbis format for Premium offline listening. These files are encrypted and can only be played within the Spotify app.
- You cannot export them as MP3 legally.
- Quality ranges from 24 kbps (low) to 320 kbps (very high).
How to Download Spotify Music on Mobile (iOS & Android)
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Open the Spotify app.
- Find the album, playlist, or podcast you want.
- Tap the Download toggle at the top (turns green when active).
- A green downward arrow appears once downloaded.
- Go to Your Library > Downloads to listen offline.
Tips for Mobile:
- Use Wi-Fi to avoid data charges.
- Download playlists instead of individual songs.
- Adjust download quality: Settings > Audio Quality > Download.
How to Download Spotify Music on Desktop (Windows)
Steps:
- Open the Spotify app and sign in.
- Navigate to the playlist or album.
- Click the Download toggle at the top.
- Downloaded songs show a green arrow.
Note: You cannot download individual songs on desktop unless they’re in a playlist.
Best Practices:
- Manage local file storage: Preferences > Storage Location.
- Use an external drive or second partition for downloads.
How to Download Spotify Music on Mac (Beginner-Friendly)
- Download the Spotify app from spotify.com.
- Sign in with your Premium account or alternative download free premium app from trusted spotify website.
- Go to the album or playlist.
- Toggle Download ON.
Bonus Mac Tips:
- Go to Spotify > Preferences > “Offline Storage” to change the folder.
- Clear cache regularly: Preferences > Clear Cache (saves space).
- Keep your Mac connected monthly to retain access.
How to See & Manage Your Downloads
Navigate to Your Library > Downloads to see all content available offline.
Managing Space:
- Delete old downloads you no longer need.
- Lower download quality to save space.
- Clear Spotify cache monthly.
Why You Should Avoid “Spotify MP3 Downloaders”
While tools like “SpotifyDownloader” claim to let you download songs as MP3 files for free, they violate Spotify’s Terms of Service.
Risks:
- Account suspension or ban.
- Exposure to malware and phishing.
- Poor or fake audio quality.
- Legal issues: Copyright infringement.
Tip: Use Spotify legally and ethically to support artists and get the best experience.
Enhance Your Spotify with IFTTT Automation
Use IFTTT to:
- Auto-add liked songs from Reddit, SoundCloud.
- Share new tracks to Telegram, Twitter.
- Change smart home lighting based on your music.
Top Spotify IFTTT Recipes
| Automation | Description |
|---|---|
| SoundCloud Likes to Spotify | Adds liked tracks from SoundCloud |
| Reddit r/ListenToThis to Spotify Playlist | Builds a playlist from top music subreddit |
| Add Saved Tracks to Google Sheet | Keeps a log of songs you save |
| Sync Spotify with Philips Hue | Changes light color based on your music mood |
Real User Reviews
“I finally understood how to download on my Mac thanks to this guide. Clear and accurate!” — Emma T., USA
“The IFTTT hacks are next-level. My playlists build themselves now!” — Rajeev K., India
“Was tempted to use those sketchy downloaders. Glad I didn’t. This article saved me trouble.” — Lina H., Germany
FAQs
Q1: Can I download Spotify songs with a Free account?
A: Only podcasts. Songs require a Premium subscription.
Q2: Will my downloads disappear if I cancel Premium?
A: Yes. Downloads are only accessible while you’re subscribed.
Q3: Why do somesongs not download?
A: Not all tracks are available offline due to licensing issues.
Q4: Can I transfer Spotify downloads to a USB or burn to CD?
A: No. Downloads are encrypted and only usable inside the Spotify app.
Q5: What happens if I don’t connect to Wi-Fi for 30 days?
A: Spotify will remove access to your downloads until you reconnect.
Conclusion
Downloading Spotify music is easy, legal, and powerful—if you do it the right way. Stick with the official app, optimize storage, and use IFTTT to automate your listening experience. Avoid risky tools that offer MP3 conversions. Instead, let Spotify do what it does best: deliver great music, everywhere you go.
Ready to start listening offline? Open Spotify now and download your playlist!
