Top 10 Meditation Apps for iOS & Android: Great Comparison

Finding the right meditation app can be overwhelming. With hundreds of options promising to reduce stress, improve sleep, and boost your wellbeing, it's hard to know which one actually delivers. Some apps lock all their content behind expensive subscriptions, while others are completely free but lack the polish you'd expect from a modern app.

The meditation app market has exploded over the past few years, with everyone from nonprofit foundations to major tech companies trying to capture your attention. You've got apps offering celebrity-narrated sleep stories, AI-powered personalization, and even therapy services—all competing for space on your phone. The differences in pricing models alone are staggering, ranging from truly free options to premium subscriptions costing over $100 per year.

We tested 10 of the top meditation apps available on both iOS and Android to see how they stack up. In this comparison, we'll break down the features, pricing, user experience, and overall value of each app, giving you the information you need to choose the meditation app that fits your needs and budget.

List of the Best Meditation Apps for Android & iOS:

• Medito: Meditation & Sleep
• Serenity: Guided Meditation
• Meditation | Down Dog
• Let's Meditate: Relax & Sleep
• Waking Up: Meditation & Wisdom
• Balance: Meditation & Sleep
• Insight Timer - Meditation App
• Calm - Sleep, Meditate, Relax
• Simple Habit: Meditation
• Headspace: Meditation & Health

If you prefer a comparison overview, check out the full comparison table of all Meditation apps:

1. Medito: Meditation & Sleep

Medito stands out immediately for one simple reason: it's completely free. With over 1 million downloads and a perfect 5.0-star rating on Android (with 39,400+ reviews), this non-profit app proves you don't need to pay for quality meditation content. The app maintains exceptional quality too, with a 4.69 rating for the last 100 reviews showing consistent user satisfaction. On iOS, it holds a 4.9-star rating with 3,800+ reviews.

We've tested Medito extensively and found it delivers on its promise. No ads interrupt your practice, no premium content stays locked behind paywalls, and no subscription prompts pop up when you're trying to meditate. The Medito Foundation built this app with a genuine mission—making meditation accessible to everyone—and that philosophy shines through in every aspect of the experience.

Key Features:

• 100% Free & Non-Profit – Unlimited access to all meditation content without any cost, ads, or subscriptions
• Comprehensive Meditation Library – Guided meditations, mindfulness courses, breathing exercises, and structured programs from 3 to 30 minutes
• Sleep Content – Sleep stories, white noise, nature sounds (rain, ocean), sleep meditations, and bedtime stories for adults
• Offline Mode – Download sessions for meditation anywhere without internet connection
• Evidence-Based – Backed by a 2024 randomized controlled trial proving regular use boosts wellbeing
• Progress Tracking – Streak recording, gentle reminders, and meditation history to track your journey
• Multiple Narrators – Choose from different voice options to find the tone that works best for you
• Home Screen Widgets – Quick access to meditation sessions directly from your home screen

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Completely free with no ads or subscriptions
• Non-profit mission focused on accessibility
• Beautiful, simple design
• Excellent sleep content including Yoga Nidra
• Works fully offline
• Evidence-based with scientific backing
• Responsive support team
• Regular updates and improvements

Cons:

• Optional donation prompts can feel persistent
• Navigation could be more intuitive
• No Google Health Connect integration yet
• Some voices are AI-generated rather than human narrators

Who is this great for?

Medito is perfect for anyone who wants high-quality meditation without spending money. Whether you're a student on a tight budget, someone skeptical about paying for meditation apps, or just someone who appreciates the non-profit approach, Medito delivers. The completely free model with no restrictions makes it accessible to everyone regardless of financial situation.

It's especially great for users who value privacy and offline functionality. The beautiful visualization and clean interface appeal to users who want a premium experience without the premium price tag, while the evidence-based approach reassures skeptics that meditation actually works.

Compared to others

Medito's completely free model gives it a clear advantage over paid alternatives like Calm and Headspace for budget-conscious users. While Insight Timer also offers extensive free content, Medito's cleaner interface and non-profit mission create a more focused experience. Compared to Serenity, Medito offers more content at zero cost, though Serenity's narrator voice may appeal to some users.

Detailed comparisons

Medito vs Headspace • Medito vs Calm • Medito vs Insight Timer

Rating Summary

With over 1 million downloads and strong ratings on both Android (5.0 stars with 39.4K reviews) and iOS (4.9 stars with 3.8K reviews), Medito has built a loyal following. ProdApps gave Medito a score of 9.47/10, making it the highest-rated meditation app in this comparison. Check out the full review here: Medito review.

2. Serenity: Guided Meditation

Serenity has carved out a solid reputation with over 1 million downloads and a 4.8-star rating on Android (with 54,200+ reviews). What's even more impressive is the 4.95 rating for the last 100 reviews—the app is actually getting better over time. On iOS, it maintains a 4.9-star rating with 1,600+ reviews. This upward trend tells you the developers are actively improving the experience.

After spending time with Serenity, we found it excels at simplicity. You don't need an account to start meditating, which removes a major barrier that stops many people from even trying. The free 7-day beginner course provides a solid foundation, and the narrator's voice is genuinely soothing without being grating—something thousands of users consistently praise in their reviews.

Key Features:

• 7-Day Beginner Course – Free, structured audio program that teaches meditation fundamentals step-by-step, perfect for building confidence
• Sleep Meditation Library – Dedicated sleep guides with relaxation techniques, peaceful music, and tranquil sounds to help you fall asleep naturally
• Stress Relief Sessions – Targeted meditations using relaxation and mindfulness techniques to calm anxiety and soothe the mind
• Quick Meditations – Short sessions for practicing skills or finding calm during busy days, ideal for quick mental resets
• Daily Meditations – Different meditation content each day to help maintain regular practice and keep sessions fresh
• No Account Required – Start meditating immediately after installation with no sign-up, login, or personal information needed
• Progress Tracking & Challenges – Stay motivated by completing challenges, unlocking free sessions, and monitoring your meditation journey with stats and graphs
• Flexible Purchasing – Choose between one-time purchases for specific content packs or unlock everything with a subscription—no forced subscription model

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Soothing, non-irritating narrator voice
• Simple, clean interface
• No account or login required
• Excellent for beginners
• Over 2 hours of free content
• Effective sleep meditations
• Flexible pricing options
• Daily meditation variety
• Progress tracking and challenges
• Responsive customer support
• Student discounts available

Cons:

• Limited free content beyond basics
• Some advanced sessions require payment
• Ads present in free version
• Values-focused content not for everyone

Who is this great for?

Serenity is perfect for beginners building their first meditation practice. If you're overwhelmed by apps with massive libraries and complex features, Serenity's straightforward approach helps you focus on actually meditating. The soothing narrator voice and simple interface create a calming experience that makes it easy to stick with a daily practice.

It's especially great for anyone struggling with sleep who wants guided sessions without complicated setup. The flexible pricing model—buy what you want rather than committing to a subscription—respects your budget and lets you test the app thoroughly before investing.

Compared to others

Serenity's no-account approach and excellent beginner course give it advantages over more complex apps like Headspace. While Medito offers completely free content, Serenity's professionally narrated voice may justify the cost for some users. Compared to Calm, Serenity provides better value with its flexible purchasing options and generous free content.

Detailed comparisons

Serenity vs Medito • Serenity vs Headspace • Serenity vs Calm

Rating Summary

With over 1 million downloads and impressive ratings on both Android (4.8 stars with 54.2K reviews) and iOS (4.9 stars with 1.6K reviews), Serenity delivers consistent quality. ProdApps gave Serenity a score of 9.00/10. Check out the full review here: Serenity review.

3. Down Dog

Down Dog brings exceptional customization to meditation with over 500,000 downloads and a solid 4.7-star rating on Android (with 56,600+ reviews). The app's recent rating of 4.76 for the last 100 reviews shows steady improvement. On iOS, it shines even brighter with a 4.9-star rating and 16,000+ reviews. What sets Down Dog apart is that every meditation session is dynamically generated—you never experience the exact same practice twice.

We tested Down Dog's customization extensively and found it genuinely useful. You can adjust session length (5-90 minutes), guidance level, background music, instructor voice, and meditation themes to match your exact preferences. The six different instructor voices give you real choice, and the walking meditation mode adds a unique dimension that most meditation apps skip entirely.

Key Features:

• Dynamic Content Generation – Every meditation session is uniquely generated, ensuring you never experience the exact same practice twice
• Fully Customizable Practice – Adjust session length (5-90 minutes), guidance level, background music, instructor voice, and meditation themes to match your preferences
• Three Meditation Modes – Choose from guided meditations for daily practice, sleep meditations to drift off peacefully, or walking meditations to find calm while moving
• Six Instructor Voices – Select from multiple meditation teachers with different speaking styles to find the voice that resonates with you
• Diverse Background Options – Set your atmosphere with calming music, nature sounds, brainwave frequencies, spiritual playlists, or complete silence
• Thematic Focus – Target specific intentions like Self Love, Release Stress, or turn off themes entirely for open awareness practice
• Multi-Language Support – Access meditations in over 9 languages beyond English, making mindfulness accessible to a global audience
• Cross-Device Syncing – Seamlessly continue your practice across all your devices with automatic synchronization

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional customization options
• Six different instructor voices
• Walking and sleep meditations
• Clean, minimal interface
• Multi-language support included
• Covers 5 apps with one subscription
• Beginner-friendly approach
• Regular content updates

Cons:

• Account required to use
• Large file sizes
• Some non-English voices sound robotic
• Breathing timing occasionally inconsistent

Who is this great for?

Down Dog is perfect for anyone who values flexibility and personalization in their meditation practice. If you've tried other meditation apps and found them too rigid or repetitive, Down Dog's customizable approach addresses exactly those frustrations. The dynamic content generation means you'll never get bored hearing the same session repeatedly.

It's especially great for users already interested in yoga or other fitness modalities since one subscription covers five Down Dog apps—meditation, yoga, barre, HIIT, and prenatal yoga. The walking meditation mode appeals to users who want to practice mindfulness while moving, and the six instructor voices let you find a narrator you actually enjoy listening to.

Compared to others

Down Dog's customization and multi-app access give it advantages over single-focus apps like Medito or Serenity. While Headspace and Calm charge similar prices for meditation alone, Down Dog's bundle provides better value if you're interested in multiple wellness practices. Compared to Balance, Down Dog offers more variety through dynamic generation rather than adaptive recommendations.

Detailed comparisons

Down Dog vs Balance • Down Dog vs Headspace • Down Dog vs Calm

Rating Summary

With over 500,000 downloads and strong ratings on both Android (4.7 stars with 56.6K reviews) and iOS (4.9 stars with 16K reviews), Down Dog delivers solid value. ProdApps gave Meditation | Down Dog a score of 8.83/10. Check out the full review here: Down Dog review.

4. Let's Meditate: Relax & Sleep

Let's Meditate takes a straightforward approach with over 1 million downloads and a 4.8-star rating on Android (with 68,200+ reviews). Recent reviews average 4.57 stars, showing a slight decline that aligns with user feedback about AI-generated voices. On iOS, it maintains a 4.7-star rating with 59 reviews. Despite some limitations, the app delivers on its promise of simple, accessible meditation at zero cost.

We tested Let's Meditate and appreciated its no-frills philosophy. No account required, no ads interrupting your practice, no complicated features to learn. You install it, pick a meditation track, and start practicing. The selective download system respects your phone's storage by letting you save only the meditations you actually want to listen to.

Key Features:

• Guided Meditation Library – Curated collection of meditation tracks covering anxiety, body scan, healing, sleep, and more topics to suit various situations
• Flexible Session Lengths – Choose from quick 5-minute sessions for brief breaks to longer 40+ minute tracks for deeper practice
• Male and Female Voice Options – Select between different narrator voices to find the one that resonates best with your practice
• Selective Offline Downloads – Download only the meditations you want to save storage space and listen offline anywhere
• Sleep-Focused Content – Dedicated sleep meditations and stories designed to help you fall asleep faster and rest better
• No Ads or Sign-Ups – Clean, distraction-free interface with no account required and zero advertisements interrupting your practice
• Regular Content Updates – New meditation tracks added regularly to keep your practice fresh and engaging
• Morning Meditations – Start your day with focused morning sessions and motivational content

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Completely free with no ads
• No account or sign-up required
• Works offline after downloading
• Simple and easy to use
• Great for sleep and relaxation
• Regular content updates
• Wide variety of topics
• Male and female voice options

Cons:

• AI-generated voices sound robotic
• Download limits for some users
• Limited advanced features
• Donation system confusing

Who is this great for?

Let's Meditate is perfect for anyone who wants straightforward meditation without complications or costs. If you find other apps overwhelming with their features, subscription models, and account requirements, Let's Meditate strips everything down to the essentials. The completely free model makes it accessible regardless of your financial situation.

It's especially great for users who value simplicity over polish. The AI-generated voices won't win any awards, but they get the job done for many users. The selective download system and offline functionality make it practical for daily use, and the no-account approach respects your privacy completely.

Compared to others

Let's Meditate's completely free, no-account approach gives it advantages over paid alternatives like Calm and Headspace. While Medito also offers free meditation with professionally recorded content, Let's Meditate's simplicity appeals to users who want the absolute minimum barrier to entry. Compared to Serenity, Let's Meditate provides more content at zero cost, though the voice quality trade-off is noticeable.

Detailed comparisons

Let's Meditate vs Medito • Let's Meditate vs Calm • Let's Meditate vs Serenity

Rating Summary

With over 1 million downloads and solid ratings on Android (4.8 stars with 68.2K reviews) and iOS (4.7 stars with 59 reviews), Let's Meditate serves its audience well. ProdApps gave Let's Meditate a score of 8.68/10. Check out the full review here: Let's Meditate review.

5. Waking Up: Meditation & Wisdom

Waking Up stands out for its intellectually ambitious approach with over 1 million downloads and a 4.8-star rating on Android (with 41,400+ reviews). Recent reviews show a concerning decline to 4.27 stars, primarily due to pricing and trial accessibility frustrations. On iOS, it maintains an impressive 4.9-star rating with 42,000+ reviews. Created by neuroscientist Sam Harris, this app combines meditation practice with philosophical inquiry and scientific understanding.

We tested Waking Up's 28-day introductory course and found it genuinely transformative. Unlike apps that promise stress relief and productivity gains, Waking Up dives deep into the nature of consciousness itself. The daily meditations from Sam Harris provide intellectual rigor alongside practice instruction, and the conversations with thought leaders like Yuval Noah Harari and Michael Pollan offer depth you won't find elsewhere.

Key Features:

• 28-Day Introductory Course – A comprehensive foundation for both beginners and experienced meditators, blending practice with theory to understand how meditation transforms consciousness
• Daily Meditations with Sam Harris – Regular guided sessions featuring neuroscience-backed techniques from mindfulness, Vipassana, Zen, Dzogchen, and Advaita Vedanta traditions
• Theory Lessons & Conversations – Deep dives into consciousness, philosophy, and psychology with leading voices like Joseph Goldstein, Yuval Noah Harari, and Michael Pollan
• Diverse Meditation Techniques – Practice mindfulness, loving-kindness, body scans, yoga nidra, and nondual awareness with expert teachers from multiple contemplative traditions
• Sleep Content – Guided meditations and talks designed to help you rest better and fall asleep more easily
• Moments & Daily Quotes – Short reflections and insights for when you need a quick mindfulness reminder throughout your day
• Custom Meditation Timer – Configure your own unguided sessions with flexible timing and ambient sounds
• Community Features – Connect with other members to discuss meditation, philosophy, psychedelics, and explore shared interests in contemplative practice

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Theory + practice approach
• Sam Harris daily meditations
• Deep philosophical content
• Multiple meditation traditions
• Expert teacher library
• Life-changing for many users
• Scholarly conversations included
• Free for those who can't afford

Cons:

• Expensive subscription cost
• Trial requires credit card
• Confusing trial offerings
• Limited free content
• Occasional login issues
• Playback progress bugs

Who is this great for?

Waking Up is perfect for intellectually curious practitioners seeking more than stress relief or sleep aids. If you're drawn to understanding how meditation actually works, interested in exploring nondual awareness, or seeking meditation that integrates philosophy and neuroscience, Waking Up will likely become an essential daily resource. The introductory course alone provides tremendous value.

It's especially great for skeptical, science-minded individuals who want rigorous explanations alongside practice instructions. The expert teacher library and philosophical conversations appeal to users who enjoy learning while meditating, and Sam Harris's approach resonates with people interested in secular, neuroscience-based meditation.

Compared to others

Waking Up's intellectual depth gives it a unique position compared to apps like Headspace and Calm, which focus more on accessible stress relief. While Insight Timer offers diverse teachers, Waking Up's curated approach and theory integration create a more cohesive learning experience. Compared to free options like Medito, Waking Up's premium content may justify the cost for the right audience.

Detailed comparisons

Waking Up vs Headspace • Waking Up vs Calm • Waking Up vs Insight Timer

Rating Summary

With over 1 million downloads and strong ratings on Android (4.8 stars with 41.4K reviews) and iOS (4.9 stars with 42K reviews), Waking Up has built a devoted following. ProdApps gave Waking Up a score of 8.52/10. Check out the full review here: Waking Up review.

6. Balance: Meditation & Sleep

Balance takes a personalized approach with over 1 million downloads and a 4.7-star rating on Android (with 47,200+ reviews). However, recent reviews tell a concerning story with a 3.48 rating for the last 100 reviews—a significant drop indicating growing problems on Android. On iOS, it maintains an excellent 4.9-star rating with 118,000+ reviews. The year-long free trial is genuinely generous, giving you ample time to experience the full app before committing.

We tested Balance and found the personalization genuinely useful when it works. The app asks questions about your mood, energy levels, and goals, then adapts session recommendations accordingly. The structured 10-day Plans teach concrete techniques progressively, and the instructor Ofosu's calm voice creates a soothing experience that users consistently praise.

Key Features:

• Personalized Meditation Plans – Adaptive sessions tailored to your experience level, mood, and daily goals through ongoing questions
• Structured 10-Day Learning Plans – Comprehensive courses teaching concrete meditation techniques like Breath Focus, Body Scan, and mindful awareness
• Quick Singles Library – Stand-alone guided meditations for morning wake-ups, commute focus, stress relief, and energy boosts
• Sleep & Bedtime Tools – Sleep meditations, bedtime stories, white noise audio, and interactive wind-down activities using bilateral stimulation
• Animated Breathing Exercises – Visual guides for controlled breathing to reduce anxiety and find calm throughout the day
• Experience-Based Progression – Beginners start with Foundations Plan while experienced meditators access Advanced Plan for deeper practice
• Mid-Plan Check-Ins – Regular reviews that adjust your meditation journey based on progress and feedback
• Research-Backed Techniques – Multiple evidence-based meditation methods including body scans, breath work, and mindfulness exercises

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Highly personalized meditation experience
• Calming instructor voices (Ofosu)
• Generous year-long free trial
• Excellent for sleep support
• Clean, uncluttered interface
• Wide variety of techniques
• Effective for anxiety relief
• Structured learning progression

Cons:

• Audio frequently cuts out
• Subscription billing problems
• Unresponsive customer support
• Premium pricing required
• Limited offline functionality
• Recent Android stability issues

Who is this great for?

Balance is perfect for iOS users who value personalization over content volume. If you struggle with choice paralysis in apps with massive libraries, or if you want guided learning progression rather than self-directed exploration, Balance's curated approach justifies the premium. The year-long free trial provides ample time to experience the benefits without financial pressure.

It's especially great for beginners who need structure and for users who appreciate the adaptive recommendations based on daily feedback. The calming instructor voices, particularly Ofosu, make it appealing for users who find motivation in consistent narration style.

Compared to others

Balance's personalization gives it advantages over content-heavy apps like Insight Timer for users who want guidance over choice. While Medito offers free content, Balance's structured learning and adaptation may justify the cost for some users. However, current Android technical issues make alternatives like Headspace and Calm more reliable choices for Android users despite their own limitations.

Detailed comparisons

Balance vs Calm • Balance vs Headspace • Balance vs Insight Timer

Rating Summary

With over 1 million downloads and mixed ratings on Android (4.7 stars with 47.2K reviews but recent 3.48) and iOS (4.9 stars with 118K reviews), Balance shows platform-specific performance. ProdApps gave Balance a score of 8.17/10. Check out the full review here: Balance review.

7. Insight Timer - Meditation App

Insight Timer boasts the largest free meditation library available with over 10 million downloads and a 4.7-star rating on Android (with 251,000+ reviews). Recent reviews show a concerning decline to 3.87 stars, reflecting frustrations with UI bloat and intrusive prompts. On iOS, it shines with a 4.9-star rating and 431,000+ reviews. With over 100,000 guided meditations from 11,000+ teachers, the sheer content volume is genuinely impressive.

We tested Insight Timer and found the content quality and variety unmatched. You can find meditations for literally any practice type—from secular mindfulness to Buddhist traditions, sleep content to walking meditations, all led by expert teachers from institutions like Stanford, Harvard, and Oxford. The free tier is remarkably generous, offering substantially more than most paid apps provide.

Key Features:

• 100,000+ Guided Meditations – Access an enormous library of free meditations covering every practice type imaginable, from secular mindfulness to Buddhist traditions, with new content added daily
• Sleep Content Library – Thousands of sleep meditations, music tracks, soundscapes, and bedtime stories to help with insomnia and improve sleep quality
• Customizable Meditation Timer – A simple yet powerful timer with interval bells, ambient sounds, and complete customization for unguided practice
• Expert Teachers – Learn from over 11,000 meditation teachers, psychologists, and neuroscientists from top institutions like Stanford, Harvard, and Oxford
• Discussion Groups – Join thousands of community groups organized by practice type, religion, interests, or life circumstances for peer support
• Progress Tracking – Track your meditation journey with detailed stats, milestones, and streak counters to build consistent habits
• Offline Downloads – Premium subscribers can download meditations for offline listening without internet connection
• 1,000+ Premium Courses – In-depth structured courses covering topics like better sleep, stress reduction, and building specific meditation skills (requires subscription)

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Massive free content library
• No ads on free tier
• Exceptional teacher variety
• Works without account
• Strong community features
• Highly customizable timer
• Regular new content additions
• Excellent iOS ratings

Cons:

• Forced surveys and commitment prompts
• Bloated UI with marketing
• Sleep mode auto-plays music
• Declining Android satisfaction
• Search and filtering lacking
• Premium features feel hidden

Who is this great for?

Insight Timer is perfect for dedicated meditators who value content variety above all else. If you want access to thousands of different teachers and meditation styles without paying, Insight Timer delivers exceptional value. The massive library means you'll never run out of new content to explore, and the free tier provides more than enough for building a consistent practice.

It's especially great for experienced practitioners who know what they want and can navigate the large library effectively. The community features appeal to users seeking peer support, and the meditation timer satisfies users who want unguided practice with interval bells and ambient sounds.

Compared to others

Insight Timer's content volume dwarfs competitors like Medito and Serenity. While Calm and Headspace charge premium prices for curated experiences, Insight Timer provides overwhelming variety at zero cost. However, the UI complexity and intrusive prompts make simpler apps like Let's Meditate more appealing for users who want distraction-free meditation.

Detailed comparisons

Insight Timer vs Calm • Insight Timer vs Headspace • Insight Timer vs Medito

Rating Summary

With over 10 million downloads and mixed ratings on Android (4.7 stars with 251K reviews but recent 3.87) and iOS (4.9 stars with 431K reviews), Insight Timer shows its age. ProdApps gave Insight Timer a score of 7.92/10. Check out the full review here: Insight Timer review.

8. Calm - Sleep, Meditate, Relax

Calm dominates the premium meditation space with over 50 million downloads and a 4.1-star rating on Android (with 604,000+ reviews). Recent reviews show a drop to 3.04 stars, indicating growing concerns among Android users. On iOS, it maintains a strong 4.8-star rating with 1.9 million reviews. The celebrity-narrated sleep stories are Calm's standout feature—falling asleep to Cillian Murphy, Bob Ross, or Rosé provides a unique experience that justifies the subscription for millions.

We tested Calm's extensive library and found the production quality consistently excellent. The Daily Calm with Tamara Levitt, Daily Trip with Jeff Warren, and comprehensive meditation library provide structure that helps build consistent habits. The sleep stories genuinely work—we found ourselves drifting off before many stories finished, which is exactly what they're designed to do.

Key Features:

• Sleep Stories – Bedtime stories narrated by celebrities like Cillian Murphy, Rosé, Jerome Flynn, and the popular Bob Ross "Painting" series
• Daily Programs – Daily Calm with Tamara Levitt (10-minute meditation), Daily Trip with Jeff Warren, Daily Move (mindful movement), and Daily Jay
• Extensive Meditation Library – Guided meditations for various needs including anxiety relief, focus, habit breaking, and stress management
• Soundscapes & Music – Sleep sounds, nature soundscapes, relaxing music, and EMDR sounds for therapeutic use
• Breathing Exercises – Guided breathwork sessions for relaxation and stress reduction
• Mindful Movement – Stretching exercises and movement sessions for relaxation
• Progress Tracking – Daily streaks, mindful minutes counter, and activity tracking
• Wear OS Support – Quick-start tiles and meditation tracking complications for smartwatches

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Unique celebrity-narrated sleep stories (Cillian Murphy, Rosé, Bob Ross)
• Extensive, high-quality meditation and sleep content library
• Daily programs (Daily Calm, Daily Trip, Daily Jay, Daily Move) provide structure
• Beautiful, calming design and interface
• Sleep stories genuinely effective for most users
• Excellent kids content for bedtime routines
• EMDR sounds and therapeutic content
• Smartwatch integration with Wear OS
• Trusted by major employers for wellness programs
• Long-term reliability for millions of users

Cons:

• Subscription required for most content
• Free version very limited
• Some Android users report billing confusion during trials
• Splash screen repetitive for daily users
• Content updates could be more frequent
• Occasional technical issues for some users
• Premium pricing compared to free alternatives

Who is this great for?

Calm is perfect for users who value premium production quality and celebrity content. If you're someone who struggles with sleep and finds the idea of falling asleep to Cillian Murphy's voice appealing, the subscription justifies itself quickly. The daily programs provide structure for building consistent meditation habits, and the extensive library ensures you'll find content that resonates.

It's especially great for users whose employers provide Calm subscriptions as wellness benefits—the value proposition becomes excellent when it's free. Families appreciate the kids content for establishing bedtime routines, and the celebrity sleep stories differentiate Calm from every other meditation app.

Compared to others

Calm's celebrity sleep stories and premium production give it unique advantages over competitors. While Medito offers free content and Insight Timer provides massive variety, Calm's curated, professionally produced library appeals to users willing to pay for polish. Compared to Headspace, Calm currently offers more stable performance on Android despite both having similar pricing.

Detailed comparisons

Calm vs Headspace • Calm vs Medito • Calm vs Insight Timer

Rating Summary

With over 50 million downloads and mixed ratings on Android (4.1 stars with 604K reviews but recent 3.04) and iOS (4.8 stars with 1.9M reviews), Calm maintains market leadership. ProdApps gave Calm a score of 7.33/10. Check out the full review here: Calm review.

9. Simple Habit: Meditation

Simple Habit carved out a niche with 5-minute meditations designed for busy people, achieving over 1 million downloads and a 4.6-star rating on Android (with 45,200+ reviews). Recent reviews show a concerning decline to 3.35 stars, reflecting technical issues and limited development. On iOS, it maintains a 4.8-star rating with 78,000+ reviews. The award-winning app (Google Play Awards, Material Design) shows promise, but current technical problems affect the experience.

We tested Simple Habit and appreciated the 5-minute format when sessions loaded properly. The quick meditation concept addresses a genuine need—many people genuinely can't find 20 minutes for traditional meditation. The expert-led content from Google mindfulness experts and former monks provides quality guidance, and the kids content works well for bedtime routines.

Key Features:

• 5-Minute Meditations – Quick sessions designed for busy lifestyles, though many now fail to load properly
• Expert-Led Content – Sessions guided by meditation experts, psychologists, and former monks
• On-the-Go Feature – Designed for use during commutes or brief moments throughout the day
• Kids Content – Sleep stories and meditations specifically for children, which some users found effective
• Progress Tracking – Streak tracking and mindful minutes to monitor your practice
• Offline Access – Download meditations with premium subscription (when working properly)

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• 5-minute sessions perfect for busy schedules
• Expert-led content from credentialed teachers
• Kids content effective for bedtime routines
• Quick meditation format unique in the market
• Long-time users report years of successful use
• Award-winning app (Google Play Awards, Material Design)

Cons:

• Limited Android development (web version recommended)
• Some users experience loading issues
• Very limited free content
• Recent app rewrite removed favorites feature
• Technical support responsiveness varies
• Subscription required for most content

Who is this great for?

Simple Habit is perfect for iOS users who genuinely struggle to find meditation time and need ultra-short sessions. If you have iOS and want quick meditations that fit into brief moments throughout your day, Simple Habit's 4.8-star iOS rating suggests it works well. The 5-minute format addresses a real need for people with packed schedules.

It's especially great for families who found success with the kids content for bedtime routines. Long-time users who've stuck with the app for years demonstrate that when it works, the format genuinely helps build consistent meditation habits.

Compared to others

Simple Habit's 5-minute format differentiates it from apps like Calm and Headspace, which typically offer longer sessions. However, technical issues and limited Android development make free alternatives like Medito and Let's Meditate more reliable choices. Compared to Insight Timer, Simple Habit offers focused brevity rather than overwhelming variety.

Detailed comparisons

Simple Habit vs Medito • Simple Habit vs Headspace • Simple Habit vs Calm

Rating Summary

With over 1 million downloads and declining ratings on Android (4.6 stars with 45.2K reviews but recent 3.35) and strong iOS performance (4.8 stars with 78K reviews), Simple Habit shows platform inconsistency. ProdApps gave Simple Habit a score of 6.33/10. Check out the full review here: Simple Habit review.

10. Headspace: Meditation & Health

Headspace pioneered mainstream meditation apps with over 10 million downloads and a 4.2-star rating on Android (with 338,000+ reviews). However, recent reviews paint a troubling picture with a 2.03 rating for the last 100 reviews—the app suffers from frequent crashes, slow loading, and confusing navigation. On iOS, it maintains a 4.8-star rating with 974,000+ reviews. The content quality remains solid, but technical execution has deteriorated significantly.

We tested Headspace and experienced the technical problems firsthand. The app crashed during meditation sessions, took excessive time to load, and presented a cluttered interface that works against the calming experience meditation should provide. When it works, the 500+ guided meditations and sleep stories deliver quality content, but reliability issues undermine everything.

Key Features:

• 500+ Guided Meditations – Access an extensive library of meditations covering anxiety, stress, sleep, focus, and mental wellness
• Sleep Content & Sleepcasts – Enjoy soothing sleep stories, soundscapes, and guided sleep meditations to improve sleep quality
• Mental Health Coaching & Therapy – Connect with licensed therapists, mental health coaches, and Ebb (AI companion) for personalized support
• Mindfulness & Breathing Exercises – Practice breathwork techniques for anxiety relief, stress management, and relaxation
• Mindful Movement & Yoga – Explore yoga sessions and movement exercises designed for stress relief and mind-body connection
• CBT Techniques & Courses – Access cognitive behavioral therapy exercises and structured meditation courses
• Focus Music & Soundscapes – Listen to relaxing music and ambient sounds for concentration and relaxation
• Progress Tracking – Monitor your meditation journey with a self-care tracker

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• High-quality meditation content
• Comprehensive library of sleep stories and sleepcasts
• Insurance coverage available through many providers
• Professional narration and production quality
• Wide variety of meditation topics
• Therapy and coaching options available

Cons:

• Extremely buggy and crashes frequently (recent updates)
• Very slow loading times and performance issues
• Confusing and cluttered navigation
• Expensive subscription pricing
• Poor customer service
• Aggressive upselling of therapy services
• Constant UI changes that worsen user experience
• Battery drain issues

Who is this great for?

Headspace is currently difficult to recommend due to widespread technical issues, but it may still work for users with insurance coverage who can tolerate the performance problems. If your employer provides Headspace subscriptions as a wellness benefit and you primarily use iOS where performance is better, the content quality may justify dealing with the technical friction.

It's worth noting that when Headspace works properly, the structured courses and professionally narrated content provide genuine value. Long-time users who stuck with the app through better times demonstrate that the content itself is solid—the execution just needs fixing.

Compared to others

Headspace's current technical problems make it hard to compete with more stable alternatives. Calm offers similar premium content with better Android performance, Medito provides free meditation without technical issues, and Insight Timer delivers massive content variety with better reliability. Until Headspace fixes its stability and performance problems, most users will find better experiences elsewhere.

Detailed comparisons

Headspace vs Calm • Headspace vs Medito • Headspace vs Insight Timer

Rating Summary

With over 10 million downloads and drastically declining ratings on Android (4.2 stars with 338K reviews but recent 2.03) and iOS (4.8 stars with 974K reviews), Headspace needs urgent attention. ProdApps gave Headspace a score of 5.58/10. Check out the full review here: Headspace review.

Final Thoughts

After testing all 10 meditation apps, we found each has carved out its own space in the market. Based on our reviews, Medito stands out as the best overall choice with its perfect combination of quality content, beautiful design, and completely free access. The app's 9.47/10 rating reflects exceptional performance across all categories without asking for a single dollar.

For users seeking professional narration and simple design, Serenity (9.00/10) provides excellent value with its flexible pricing model and soothing narrator voice. Meditation | Down Dog (8.83/10) excels for users who want exceptional customization and value the multi-app subscription that includes yoga and fitness programs.

For specific use cases: Waking Up (8.52/10) is perfect for intellectually curious practitioners seeking philosophical depth alongside meditation practice. Balance (8.17/10) offers strong personalization for iOS users, though Android users should proceed with caution due to technical issues. Insight Timer (7.92/10) provides the largest free library available, despite UI bloat concerns.

Calm (7.33/10) remains valuable for its unique celebrity sleep stories if you can justify the premium pricing. Let's Meditate (8.68/10) delivers straightforward, completely free meditation despite AI-generated voices. Simple Habit (6.33/10) works well for iOS users needing 5-minute sessions, though Android users face technical limitations. Headspace (5.58/10) struggles with severe technical problems that overshadow its quality content.

The key is finding what fits your specific needs and budget. Start with free options like Medito or Let's Meditate to build your practice, then consider paid alternatives only if you need features they don't provide. With excellent free options available, there's no need to pay for meditation apps unless premium features genuinely enhance your practice.