DistroKid vs TuneCore

The DistroKid vs TuneCore decision comes down to how you like to pay and whether you want publishing collection bundled in. Both are reputable music distributors that get your songs onto Spotify, Apple Music and the rest while letting you keep your rights. They take different approaches to fees and extras, and that difference is what should drive your choice.

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Quick answer

Choose DistroKid if you release often and want one predictable annual fee for unlimited uploads. Choose TuneCore if you want a more service-led distributor with strong publishing-administration to collect royalties you might otherwise miss. Both let you keep your streaming royalties; the models around them differ.

Pricing model

DistroKid is built around an annual subscription that allows unlimited song and album uploads. The more you release in a year, the better the value. TuneCore has historically leaned toward a per-release pricing structure with annual renewals, which can suit artists who release less frequently but want each release maintained over time. Exact prices change, so check current plans before deciding — the structural difference (flat subscription vs per-release) is the durable distinction.

Royalties

Both services let you keep 100% of your streaming royalties from the distribution side. Neither takes ownership of your music. Where money differs is in optional services, particularly publishing administration, which we cover below.

Publishing administration

TuneCore is well known for its publishing-administration offering, which registers your songs and collects mechanical and performance royalties globally for a percentage of those publishing royalties. DistroKid also offers publishing tools, but TuneCore’s reputation here is stronger and more established. If you do not already understand the difference between the two royalty streams, read music publishing explained and mechanical royalties explained first.

Features and extras

• DistroKid: automatic revenue splits that pay collaborators directly, fast store delivery, pre-save tools, and add-ons like YouTube Content ID. Known for a streamlined, upload-and-go experience.
• TuneCore: publishing administration, sync licensing opportunities, detailed reporting, and a longer track record. Known for a fuller suite of artist services.

For how these fit into the wider workflow, see how to release a song independently and the full best music distribution services roundup. If you are also weighing pay-per-release options, compare DistroKid vs CD Baby.

What happens if you stop paying

Both use renewal-based models, so keeping your music live depends on keeping your account current. With subscription distribution, letting a plan lapse can result in your catalogue being removed from stores. Budget for the ongoing cost rather than treating it as one-and-done.

Which is right for you?

If you are a prolific releaser who wants the lowest cost-per-release and a simple flat fee, DistroKid is the natural pick. If you release less often, want publishing royalties collected for you, or value a broader services suite, TuneCore earns its place. Many artists also use a dedicated publishing-admin service alongside whichever distributor they choose — the two roles do not have to be the same company.

Frequently asked questions

Is DistroKid or TuneCore cheaper?

It depends on how much you release. DistroKid’s flat annual fee favours frequent releasers, while TuneCore’s per-release structure can be cheaper if you only put out one song occasionally. Compare current plans against your release schedule.

Do both collect publishing royalties?

Both offer publishing-administration services, but TuneCore is more established in this area. Publishing collection is usually a separate, optional service that takes a percentage of those specific royalties — distribution alone does not collect them.

Can I move from one to the other?

Yes, but you must take your releases down from the first distributor and re-upload through the second, which can reset stream counts and playlist placements. Keep your ISRCs consistent and plan the switch around a quiet period.