Which is Better: DistroKid or CD Baby?

Are you an independent artist looking to distribute your music worldwide? Choosing the right music distribution platform is crucial for your success. Two of the leading names in this space are DistroKid and CD Baby. In this article, we will compare these two platforms to help you decide which one suits your needs better.

What is DistroKid?

DistroKid is a music distribution service that offers artists a simple and fast way to get their music on various streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and others. The key feature of DistroKid is its affordable annual subscription model, which allows artists to upload unlimited tracks for a single yearly fee.

What is CD Baby?

CD Baby is one of the oldest and most established music distribution services. Unlike DistroKid, CD Baby charges a one-time fee per release. This platform not only distributes your music to streaming platforms but also offers physical distribution for CDs and vinyl. CD Baby provides a comprehensive suite of services, including publishing administration and sync licensing.

Pricing Comparison

Pricing can be a significant factor when choosing between these two platforms:

• DistroKid: Charges $19.99 per year for unlimited uploads.
• CD Baby: Charges a one-time fee of $49 per album or $9.95 per single release.

If you plan to release multiple singles or albums in a year, DistroKid’s annual plan can be more cost-effective.

Revenue and Royalties

Revenue and royalties are critical considerations for any artist:

• DistroKid: Allows artists to keep 100% of their earnings.
• CD Baby: Takes a 9% commission on digital sales and streams.

For artists who want to maximize their earnings, DistroKid's zero commission model is highly attractive.

Additional Services

Aside from simple distribution, both platforms offer additional services:

• DistroKid: Provides features like "HyperFollow" for marketing, cover song licensing, and Spotify verified checkmarks.
• CD Baby: Offers services like music publishing administration, sync licensing, and physical distribution for CDs and vinyl.

If you are looking for more comprehensive services beyond digital distribution, CD Baby might be the better choice.

User Experience

Both platforms focus on user-friendly interfaces:

• DistroKid: Known for its straightforward and fast upload process.
• CD Baby: Offers detailed guides and support but has a more intricate upload process due to its additional services.

If ease of use and speed are top priorities, DistroKid is likely to be more appealing.

Support and Customer Service

Customer support can significantly impact your experience:

• DistroKid: Offers email support and a detailed FAQ section.
• CD Baby: Provides email and phone support, along with a comprehensive help center.

For artists who prefer phone support, CD Baby has a slight edge.

Conclusion: Which Should You Choose?

Choosing between DistroKid and CD Baby ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here’s a quick summary:

• Choose DistroKid if: You want an affordable annual plan for unlimited uploads, prefer to keep 100% of your earnings, and prioritize a quick, straightforward upload process.
• Choose CD Baby if: You want a one-time fee per release, require physical distribution for CDs or vinyl, and need comprehensive services like music publishing administration and sync licensing.

Regardless of your choice, it’s essential to evaluate your distribution needs carefully. If you are looking for an all-in-one platform to help you build your career and reach new fans, consider registering as a SoundOn artist. SoundOn provides extensive marketing and distribution support, helping artists thrive in the modern music market.