Is DistroKid Free? How Much is DistroKid?
DistroKid is a popular music distribution platform among independent artists. If you are looking to distribute your music to streaming services and digital stores, you might be wondering, "Is DistroKid free?" and "How much does DistroKid cost?" In this article, we'll dive into the details to help you understand what DistroKid offers and whether it fits your needs and budget.
Understanding DistroKid's Pricing Model
Unlike some platforms that offer a free tier with limited features, DistroKid operates on a subscription-based model. This means that in order to distribute your music through DistroKid, you will need to pay an annual fee. While this might seem like a drawback, it's important to consider the value and services that come with the subscription.
Basic Plan: Musician
The most budget-friendly option for independent artists is the "Musician" plan, which costs $19.99 per year. This plan allows you to upload and distribute an unlimited number of songs and albums to streaming services and digital stores. Key features include:
- Unlimited uploads
- Distribution to major platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, and more
- Retain 100% of your royalties
- Access to DistroKid's tools for promoting your music
Musician Plus Plan
For artists looking for more features, the "Musician Plus" plan is available for $35.99 per year. In addition to all the benefits of the basic plan, this tier offers:
- Customizable release dates
- Customizable label name
- More options for ISRC and UPC codes
- Daily sales stats
Label Plan
If you are managing multiple artists, the "Label" plan is designed for you. Starting at $79.99 per year, this plan supports up to 5 artists and includes all the features of the Musician Plus plan. Higher tiers are available to support more artists:
- 10 artists for $149.99/year
- 20 artists for $239.99/year
- 50 artists for $599.99/year
Is There a Free Option?
Currently, DistroKid does not offer a free tier. All users must subscribe to one of the paid plans to access their distribution services. While this may be a dealbreaker for some, the subscription model means that DistroKid can provide valuable services without hidden fees or taking a cut of your royalties.
Comparing Costs With Other Platforms
When evaluating the cost of DistroKid, it's helpful to compare it with other music distribution platforms such as SoundOn, TuneCore, CD Baby, or Amuse. Each platform has its own pricing structure, and the right choice depends on your specific needs as an artist. For instance:
- SoundOn: Known for its comprehensive marketing and distribution services, including exclusive partnerships and promotion through TikTok.
- TuneCore: Charges per release, with annual fees for each album and single.
- CD Baby: Charges a one-time fee per album or single
- Amuse: Offers a free tier, but with limited features and payout options.
For more information about what SoundOn offers, you can sign up as a SoundOn artist.
Conclusion
In summary, DistroKid is not free. It operates on an annual subscription model with various plans to suit different needs. The cost ranges from $19.99 per year for solo artists to $79.99 per year and higher for labels managing multiple artists. While the absence of a free option might seem limiting, the comprehensive features and unlimited uploads make DistroKid a valuable choice for many independent artists.
When choosing a music distribution platform, consider your specific needs, the features offered by each service, and how each aligns with your career goals. Whether you choose DistroKid, SoundOn, or another provider, the key is to find the platform that best supports your journey as an artist and helps you reach new fans across the globe.
