Compare software

spotifyd vs Shairport Sync: catalog facts
spotifyd	Shairport Sync
Free Free and open source; you need your own Spotify account.	Free Free and open source.
Linux, Command line	Linux
Lightweight compared with the official client Spotify Connect support for remote control	Supports both AirPlay and AirPlay 2 Synchronised playback across multiple speakers
Unofficial client that depends on Spotify's service No graphical interface of its own	Audio only, no AirPlay video or screen mirroring Building and configuring it takes some Linux knowledge
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Open source	Open source
License: GPL-3.0	License not stated
Account needed	No account needed
Needs internet	Works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Checked September 24, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Checked September 24, 2026

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