We’ve rounded up the best apps like Shazam that you can use directly on your PC. From desktop apps to browser tools, each option is tailored to your listening habits and technical needs.
Comparison Table: Top Shazam Alternatives for PC (2025)
| App Name | Key Features | Platform Compatibility | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Musixmatch | Real-time synced lyrics, translations | Windows, Chrome, Android/iOS | Users who want lyrics with recognition |
| SoundHound | Hum-to-search, real-time lyrics | Web-based, Android/iOS | Hands-free, hum-based search |
| Genius | Lyrics + song annotations | Browser extension, Web | Understanding song meanings |
| Tunatic | Lightweight mic-based recognition | Windows, old macOS | Offline use, older PCs |
| Audiggle | Internal audio capture + tagging | Windows only | Identifying audio from system sounds |
| Midomi | Hum or sing into mic | Web-based | Singing-based searchers |
| MusicID | Artist info, notes, fast recognition | Android emulator on PC | Visual users, artist explorers |
Source: Softonic
1. Musixmatch – For Lyrics and Real-Time Sync
Musixmatch is perfect if you love seeing lyrics while listening to music. It works well with Spotify and YouTube, overlaying synchronized, often multilingual lyrics on-screen. The Chrome extension is lightweight and quick.
Pros:
- Real-time lyrics with translations
- Works on Windows and browsers
- Excellent for global users
Cons:
- Relies on external sources, not mic input
- Desktop version lacks mobile power
2. SoundHound – Identify Songs by Humming
SoundHound lets you hum or sing to find a song. If you’ve got the melody stuck in your head but no lyrics, this tool nails it. It supports hands-free voice commands and real-time lyrics as well.
Pros:
- Great for humming or singing
- Voice-controlled, hands-free use
- Syncs across devices
Cons:
- Needs a mic; can’t capture system sound
- Web version is basic
3. Genius – Explore Song Meanings and Artist Insights
Genius goes beyond simple identification. It’s built for users who love dissecting lyrics and understanding context. Through its browser extension, you can identify and read lyric annotations while listening.
Pros:
- Deep lyrical analysis
- Artist and fan annotations
- No installation needed
Cons:
- No native desktop version
- Song detection is secondary
4. Tunatic – Lightweight Music ID for Older PCs
Tunatic may look outdated, but it’s still a reliable tool for older machines. It listens through your mic or line-in and provides quick song identification.
Pros:
- Low resource usage
- No internet needed
Cons:
- Outdated interface
- Limited database
5. Audiggle – Identify Songs from Your Speakers
Audiggle can capture songs directly from your PC speakers or mic, no phone required. It stores a history of all tracks identified, which is great for reference.
Pros:
- System audio recognition
- Search history and tagging
Cons:
- Only on Windows
- UI needs updating
- Free version limits daily uses
6. Midomi – Sing or Hum to Find That Song
Midomi is an online app that lets you hum or sing a tune. It’s a fun way to find songs even if you don’t know the words. You’ll need a mic, and pitch accuracy helps a lot.
Pros:
- Web-based and easy to access
- Community features
Cons:
- No system audio capture
- Accuracy varies by vocal input
7. MusicID – Sleek Interface with Extra Artist Info
MusicID is primarily a mobile app, but you can run it on PC using Android emulators like BlueStacks. It’s clean and fast, with cool extras like artist bios and album covers.
Pros:
- Attractive, fast interface
- Detailed artist data
- Allows personal notes
Cons:
- Needs emulator setup
- No built-in PC app
Final Word
Whether you’re a lyric lover, a casual listener, or a melody mumbler, there’s a Shazam alternative for PC that fits your needs. Try Musixmatch for lyric syncing, SoundHound for humming, or Audiggle for desktop audio detection. You no longer need your phone just to identify songs.
