DistroKid versus TuneCore Which Is Better
Feb 09 2026
The independent music scene is more competitive than ever. You no longer need a record label to reach the world; you just need a great song and a reliable distributor. Two names consistently dominate the conversation: DistroKid and TuneCore.
If you are a musician ready to drop your next project, you might be feeling the pressure. Should you go with the fast-moving, flat-fee model of DistroKid, or the long-established, feature-rich powerhouse of TuneCore?
In this guide, we will break down the pricing, features, and hidden details of DistroKid versus TuneCore to help you decide which partner is right for your career.
The Core Philosophy: Speed vs. Support
While both platforms get your music onto Spotify, Apple Music, and TikTok, they approach the business very differently.
DistroKid: The Prolific Creator’s Tool
DistroKid is built for speed and volume. It was the first to offer "unlimited uploads" for one small annual price. It is designed for the "bedroom producer" or the band that wants to release a single every month without worrying about per-release costs.
The Vibe: Fast, simple, and automated.
Best For: Artists who release music frequently.
TuneCore: The Artist Development Hub
TuneCore, owned by Believe, has evolved into much more than just a distributor. They position themselves as a partner in your growth, offering publishing administration, professional mastering, and even playlist pitching services.
The Vibe: Professional, structured, and comprehensive.
Best For: Artists who want a "label-like" suite of tools and better customer support.
Pricing Comparison (2026)
In 2026, both platforms have updated their models to stay competitive. DistroKid remains the budget leader for unlimited uploads, while TuneCore has introduced unlimited plans that rival DistroKid's structure.
Feature | DistroKid (Musician Plan) | TuneCore (Rising Artist) |
Annual Price | ~$24.99 | ~$22.99 |
Unlimited Songs | Yes | Yes |
Primary Artists | 1 | 1 |
Spotify Checkmark | Yes | Yes |
Custom Release Date | Paid Upgrade (Musician Plus) | Included |
YouTube Content ID | Extra Fee (~$4.95/yr) | Included (on most plans) |
Click Here to check DistroKid prices
The Catch: While DistroKid’s base price is lower, they are famous for "add-ons." If you want your song to stay up forever even if you stop paying (Leave a Legacy) or you want to monetize YouTube, the price goes up. TuneCore tends to include more of these features in their higher-tier "Breakout" and "Professional" plans.
Key Features Face-Off
Release Speed
If you need your song live yesterday, DistroKid is the champion. They often get music into stores in under 48 hours. TuneCore has improved significantly but generally takes 2 to 5 business days for a full rollout.
Royalty Splits
DistroKid’s "Teams" feature is legendary. It allows you to automatically split royalties with producers or bandmates. TuneCore also offers splits, but many artists find DistroKid’s automated system easier to manage for complex collaborations.
Customer Support
This is where the two diverge sharply.
TuneCore is widely praised for its human support. If you have a problem with a release, you can usually reach a real person within 24–48 hours.
DistroKid relies heavily on an AI chatbot (Dave). While efficient for simple tasks, it can be frustrating if you have a complicated legal or technical issue.
Hidden Factors to Consider
What happens if you stop paying?
DistroKid: If your annual subscription lapses, your music is typically removed from stores unless you have paid the "Leave a Legacy" fee for every single release.
TuneCore: Similarly, their unlimited plans require an active subscription. However, they offer more "grace periods" and have historically been more flexible with older "pay-per-release" content.
Music Publishing
If you write your own songs, you are owed songwriting royalties (mechanical and performance) that regular distribution doesn't collect. TuneCore offers a "Publishing Administration" service for a one-time fee plus a small commission. DistroKid does not offer this service, meaning you’ll need to sign up for something like Songtrust separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does DistroKid take a commission on my sales?
No. Both DistroKid and TuneCore allow you to keep 100% of your royalties from streaming services. However, DistroKid takes 20% of your YouTube Content ID revenue, while TuneCore’s cut varies based on your plan.
Which is better for a new artist in 2026?
If you are just starting and plan to release a lot of music to see what "sticks," DistroKid is the better value. If you have a finished album and a marketing budget, TuneCore provides a more professional foundation.
Can I switch from TuneCore to DistroKid (or vice versa)?
Yes, but it takes work. You have to re-upload your music with the same ISRC codes to keep your stream counts, then tell your old distributor to take the music down. It’s better to choose one and stick with it if possible!
Do both provide "Spotify for Artists" access?
Yes. Both platforms provide "instant access" to your Spotify for Artists dashboard so you can see your stats and customize your profile.
Final Verdict: Which One Wins?
Choose DistroKid if:
You are an "active" creator releasing singles and EPs constantly.
You are on a tight budget and just want the basics.
You do a lot of collaborations and need easy royalty splitting.
Choose TuneCore if:
You want better customer service and human interaction.
You are interested in professional tools like Publishing Administration.
You want a cleaner, more corporate dashboard for long-term brand building.
In 2026, there is no "wrong" choice, only a "best fit." DistroKid is the high-speed tool for the modern DIY era, while TuneCore is the professional partner for the career-minded musician.