DistroKid vs TuneCore
Which music distributor should you use in 2026?
I've released 300+ songs using both platforms. Here's the honest truth: I use both, and you might want to as well.
Why I Use Both Distributors
After 11 years and 300+ songs, here's my strategy:
DistroKid for Speed
New releases, singles, EPs — anything I want out fast. The unlimited uploads model is perfect when you're dropping multiple tracks. Monaco Gold and most of my recent catalog went through DistroKid.
TuneCore for Longevity
Catalog staples I want to stay up forever, even if I stop paying. Plus their publishing administration and sync licensing services are valuable for tracks that might get film/TV placement.
The truth? Neither is "better." They serve different purposes.
Head-to-Head Comparison
DistroKid
Upload unlimited songs
Pros
- Unlimited uploads for one price
- Fastest distribution (often same-day)
- Great for prolific artists
- Spotify for Artists access
- Shazam, Instagram/TikTok sounds
- Lyrics distribution to Spotify
Cons
- Music removed if you stop paying
- Extra fees for some features
- Customer support can be slow
- No sync licensing help
Best for: Artists releasing frequently who want speed and simplicity
TuneCore
Pay per release annually
Pros
- Music stays up even if you cancel
- Publishing administration available
- Sync licensing opportunities
- Detailed analytics
- Social media monetization
- YouTube Content ID
Cons
- Gets expensive with many releases
- Annual renewal fees per release
- Slower than DistroKid
- Interface less intuitive
Best for: Artists with fewer releases who want publishing services
Feature Comparison
| Feature | DistroKid | TuneCore |
|---|---|---|
| Unlimited Uploads | ||
| Keep 100% Royalties | ||
| Music Stays If Cancel | ||
| YouTube Content ID | Extra $ | |
| Publishing Admin | ||
| Sync Licensing | ||
| Same-Day Distribution | ||
| Spotify Lyrics | ||
| Cover Song Licensing |
What's Your Music Catalog Worth?
If you're building a catalog, you should know its value. I built a free calculator to help artists estimate their catalog equity — useful if you're ever approached about selling your masters or just want to understand your asset.
Calculate Your Catalog ValueFree tool at CatalogEquity.com
How to Upload Your First Song
DistroKid Steps
- 1Sign up ($22.99/year for Musician plan)
- 2Click "Upload" and add your WAV file
- 3Add artwork (3000x3000 JPG recommended)
- 4Fill in metadata (title, genre, release date)
- 5Select stores (all of them)
- 6Submit — usually live in 1-2 days
TuneCore Steps
- 1Create account (free to sign up)
- 2Click "Create New Release"
- 3Choose Single ($9.99) or Album ($29.99)
- 4Upload audio and artwork
- 5Complete metadata and choose stores
- 6Pay and submit — live in 2-5 days
My Recommendation
If you're just starting:Go with DistroKid. The unlimited uploads let you experiment without worrying about per-song costs. Speed to market matters when you're building momentum.
If you have a proven catalog: Consider TuneCore for your top performers. The music stays up even if you cancel, and the publishing/sync services can generate additional revenue.
If you're like me (300+ songs): Use both strategically. Speed with DistroKid, longevity with TuneCore.
Want to know what your catalog is worth?
Try the Catalog Equity CalculatorHear What 300+ Songs Sounds Like
All distributed through DistroKid and TuneCore. Multi-genre catalog spanning hip hop, country, pop, and EDM.
