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LMS (Lightweight Music Server) vs Koel: catalog facts
LMS (Lightweight Music Server)	Koel
Free Free and open source.	Freemium The open-source server is free; Koel Plus is a paid edition with extra features.
Linux, Web, Self-hosted	Android, iOS, Web, Self-hosted
Subsonic API works with many existing client apps Web interface for listening in a browser	Multi-user support with smart playlists and favourites Metadata editing and uploads from the web interface
Music only, no video Requires running your own server	Some features are reserved for the paid Koel Plus edition Requires running and maintaining your own server
Self-hosted	Downloadable app, Self-hosted
Open source	Open source
License not stated	License not stated
No account needed	Not stated if an account is needed
Not stated if it works offline	Not stated if it works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Checked October 1, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Checked September 23, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.