Getting your music onto Spotify, Apple Music and TikTok no longer requires a record label. A digital distributor handles delivery for you, and independent artists now have more choice than ever. DistroKid is one of the best-known names, but it’s far from the only option. The right distributor depends on how often you release, which tools you need and how you make your music.
This guide looks at DistroKid and four popular alternatives, what each one offers and who it suits best, so you can choose with confidence.
What to Look for in a Music Distributor
Before comparing names, it helps to know what actually matters when choosing where to release your music.
Pricing model. Some distributors charge a yearly subscription for unlimited releases, while others charge a one-time fee per release.
Royalty split. Many distributors let you keep 100% of your streaming royalties, while others take a commission.
Payout timing. This is how often you can access your earnings, which affects cash flow.
Release speed. This is how long it takes for your music to go live after upload.
Support. It’s worth knowing whether you can reach a real person when something goes wrong.
AI policy. As more producers use AI tools, distributors now set different rules for AI-assisted and AI-generated music.
Extra tools. Mastering, samples, publishing and promotion features can add real value depending on your workflow.
DistroKid and Its Alternatives Compared
| Distributor | Pricing / fees | Royalty split | Payout timing | Release speed | Human support | AI-generated music policy |
| DistroKid | $24.99, $44.99, or from $89.99/yr | 100% | Monthly | Usually a few days | Help centre and ticket support | Accepts AI with disclosure; no impersonation |
| LANDR Distribution | From $24/yr (Basic), $45/yr (Pro); LANDR Studio from $8.25/mo billed yearly | 100% | Monthly | 2–5 days | Yes, real people for releases and account questions | Clear published policy for AI-assisted music |
| TuneCore | $24.99–$54.99/yr | 100% on paid plans | Check current schedule | Typically 2–5 days | Support for paid users | No 100% AI-generated works; AI-assisted reviewed case by case |
| CD Baby | One-time: $9.99/single, $29/album | 91% (9% commission) | Weekly | 2 days to 2 weeks | Support team plus learning resources | Does not distribute AI-generated content |
| Amuse | $23.99, $39.99 or $59.99/yr | 100% (15% fee on YouTube Content ID) | Monthly | Varies by plan | Support on paid plans | Accepts AI music with conditions |
The Best Music Distributors in 2026
1. DistroKid
Best for: Prolific artists who want fast, unlimited uploads for a flat yearly fee.
DistroKid popularised the simple model many artists now expect: one annual fee, unlimited releases and 100% of your royalties. Plans range from $24.99 per year for a single artist up to its Ultimate tier for those managing more projects.
It’s quick, straightforward and widely used, which is why it’s often the first name new artists hear. If speed and release volume are your main priorities, it remains a strong choice.
2. LANDR Distribution
Best for: Artists who want distribution, mastering and production tools in one place.
LANDR Distribution takes a broader approach than most distributors. Alongside getting your music into stores, LANDR offers AI mastering, samples, plugins and collaboration tools within the same ecosystem, so artists can go from a finished track to a live release in one place.
Distribution plans start at $24 per year for Basic or $45 per year for Pro. For artists who want the full production suite, LANDR Studio bundles distribution with mastering, samples and plugins from $8.25 per month, billed yearly. For anyone already paying separately for mastering or sample packs, that can simplify both the workflow and the budget. You can see how LANDR’s fees compare to DistroKid for a detailed breakdown.
Artists keep 100% of their royalties, and every plan includes delivery to more than 150 stores and streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, TikTok and YouTube Content ID. Releases typically go live within two to five days.
LANDR also offers human support, with real people available to help with releases and account questions. It has a clear, published policy for releasing AI-assisted music too, which gives producers certainty about what’s allowed.
3. TuneCore
Best for: Artists who want publishing administration alongside distribution.
TuneCore is one of the longest-running distributors in the business. It offers unlimited annual plans from about $24.99 to $54.99 per year, with 100% of streaming royalties on paid plans.
Its standout feature is publishing administration, available as an add-on, which helps artists collect performance and mechanical royalties they might otherwise miss. TuneCore doesn’t distribute fully AI-generated works, while AI-assisted tracks are reviewed based on the level of human involvement.
4. CD Baby
Best for: Artists who release occasionally and prefer a one-time fee over a subscription.
CD Baby charges once per release, around $9.99 for a single or $29 for an album, and your music stays live without a yearly renewal. In return, it keeps a 9% commission on digital royalties.
For artists with just one or two releases a year, this model can be very cost-effective, and CD Baby also pays out weekly. Its policy is not to distribute AI-generated content, so it’s best suited to fully human-made catalogues.
5. Amuse
Best for: Mobile-first artists looking for affordable plans and advance opportunities.
Amuse offers three annual plans: Artist at $23.99, Artist Plus at $39.99 and Professional at $59.99. Artists keep 100% of streaming royalties, with a 15% fee on YouTube Content ID earnings.
Its app-based workflow and advance programme make it appealing to artists who prefer to manage their releases straight from their phone.
Which Music Distributor Should You Choose?
There’s no single “best” distributor, only the best fit for your situation.
- Releasing often and want speed: DistroKid
- Want distribution plus mastering, samples and plugins in one place: LANDR Distribution
- Focused on publishing income: TuneCore
- Releasing once or twice a year: CD Baby
- Managing everything from your phone: Amuse
Whichever you choose, check the full fee structure, what happens to your music if you stop paying, and whether the AI policy matches how you create.
Want a closer look at the biggest names? Read our [DistroKid vs TuneCore vs Amuse vs CD Baby comparison].
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s a good alternative to DistroKid?
It depends on your needs. LANDR Distribution is a strong option for artists who want distribution, mastering and production tools together, with plans from $24 per year, 100% royalties and delivery to 150+ platforms. TuneCore suits artists focused on publishing, CD Baby works well for occasional releases, and Amuse offers affordable mobile-first plans.
Which distributor has the best support?
Support styles differ between platforms, from help centres and ticketing to direct contact with a team. LANDR offers human support, with real people helping with releases and account questions, which makes it a good choice for artists who value hands-on help.
Can I distribute AI-assisted music?
Yes, with many distributors, but policies vary. LANDR has a clear published policy for AI-assisted music, and DistroKid and Amuse accept AI music under certain conditions. TuneCore doesn’t distribute fully AI-generated works, and CD Baby doesn’t distribute AI-generated content. Always disclose AI use honestly when uploading.
