Choosing a music distributor can feel overwhelming. There are dozens of options, each with different pricing models, features, and limitations.
We've analyzed the most popular distribution services to help you make an informed decision. Here are the top 5 platforms for independent artists in 2025.
Note
We're ALERA, so we've included ourselves in this list. We've tried to present each platform fairly, but we encourage you to verify current pricing and features directly with each service.
Quick Comparison
| Platform | Starting Price | Royalties | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| ALERA | $9.99/mo | 100% | All-in-one platform seekers |
| DistroKid | $22.99/yr | 100% | Budget-conscious artists |
| TuneCore | $9.99/single | 100% | Occasional releasers |
| CD Baby | $9.95/single | 91% | Physical distribution needs |
| Ditto Music | $19/yr | 100% | Label services |
1. ALERA
Best for: Artists who want an all-in-one platform with distribution, fan engagement, and monetization tools.
Pricing
- Free: Smart Bio, Basic Fan CRM, Private Music Library
- Plus ($9.99/mo): Unlimited releases, 100% royalties, Analytics, ALERA Exchange
- Pro ($24.99/mo): Full suite, next-day releases, advanced analytics, merch store, priority support
Key Features
- Distribution to 150+ stores including Spotify, Apple Music, TikTok
- Automated royalty splits for collaborators (included)
- Smart Bio (link-in-bio) with automatic release updates
- Fan CRM to capture and manage audience data
- Service Exchange: Use future royalties to access professional services
- Unified analytics across streaming and social
- Music stays live even if you cancel
Pros
- All-in-one platform replaces multiple subscriptions
- Royalty splits included (not an add-on fee)
- Service Exchange is unique in the industry
- Next-day delivery on Pro tier
- Music stays up after cancellation
Cons
- Monthly pricing (higher annual cost than some competitors)
- Newer platform (less track record than established players)
2. DistroKid
Best for: Artists who want affordable, straightforward distribution with minimal frills.
Pricing
- Musician ($22.99/yr): 1 artist, unlimited releases
- Musician Plus ($39.99/yr): 2 artists, more features
- Label ($79.99/yr): Up to 5 artists
Key Features
- Distribution to 150+ stores
- Unlimited releases on all plans
- Spotify integration for lyrics and credits
- YouTube Content ID (extra fee)
- Splits feature (extra fee)
Pros
- Very affordable annual pricing
- Simple, easy-to-use interface
- Fast release delivery
- Large user base and track record
Cons
- Many features require add-on fees
- Music removed if subscription lapses (without "Leave a Legacy" fee)
- Limited analytics compared to competitors
- Support can be slow during peak times
3. TuneCore
Best for: Artists who release occasionally and prefer per-release pricing.
Pricing
- Single: $9.99/year
- Album: $29.99 first year, $49.99 per year after
- Unlimited Plan: $14.99/mo or $89.99/yr
Key Features
- Distribution to major platforms
- Publishing administration (additional service)
- Social media monetization
- Detailed royalty reports
- YouTube monetization tools
Pros
- Pay-per-release option for infrequent artists
- Strong publishing administration services
- Established reputation since 2005
- Good analytics and reporting
Cons
- Per-release pricing adds up quickly for active artists
- Annual renewal fees to keep music live
- Interface can feel dated
- Some features locked behind higher tiers
4. CD Baby
Best for: Artists who want physical distribution options and one-time fees.
Pricing
- Standard Single: $9.95 one-time (9% commission)
- Standard Album: $29 one-time (9% commission)
- Pro Single: $29.95 one-time (15% commission, includes publishing)
- Pro Album: $69 one-time (15% commission, includes publishing)
Key Features
- Distribution to digital and physical retailers
- CD and vinyl pressing services
- Sync licensing opportunities
- Publishing administration (Pro tier)
- YouTube Content ID
Pros
- One-time fee model (no recurring costs)
- Physical distribution options (CDs, vinyl)
- Music stays live forever after payment
- Strong sync licensing program
Cons
- Takes a commission on royalties (9-15%)
- Higher upfront costs per release
- Interface less modern than competitors
- Slower release processing
5. Ditto Music
Best for: Artists interested in label services and additional music industry support.
Pricing
- Basic ($19/yr): 1 artist, unlimited releases
- Plus ($39/yr): 2 artists, more features
- Pro ($79/yr): 5 artists, full feature set
Key Features
- Distribution to 150+ stores
- Record label services available
- Artist development programs
- Playlist pitching services
- Physical distribution options
Pros
- Competitive annual pricing
- 100% royalties on distribution
- Label services for those who want support
- Global offices and local support
Cons
- Label services are separate (and expensive)
- Basic plan has limited features
- Some features require upgrades
- Less robust analytics than competitors
How to Choose the Right Distributor
Consider these factors when making your decision:
1. Release Frequency
- Release often (monthly+): Unlimited plans make sense (ALERA, DistroKid, Ditto)
- Release occasionally: Per-release pricing might save money (TuneCore, CD Baby)
2. Feature Needs
- Just distribution: DistroKid or Ditto Basic
- All-in-one platform: ALERA
- Publishing admin: TuneCore or CD Baby Pro
- Physical distribution: CD Baby
3. Budget
- Lowest annual cost: DistroKid or Ditto Basic
- One-time payment: CD Baby
- Monthly flexibility: ALERA
4. Collaboration
- Frequent collaborators: ALERA (splits included)
- Solo artist: Any platform works
5. Long-term Considerations
- Music stays up after cancellation: ALERA, CD Baby
- Requires ongoing payment: DistroKid, TuneCore, Ditto
"The best distributor is the one that fits your specific needs. There's no universal 'best'—only what's best for your situation, release schedule, and goals."
Final Recommendations
- Choose ALERA if you want everything in one place: distribution, fan tools, and monetization. Best for artists who value integrated tools and features like automated splits.
- Choose DistroKid if you want the cheapest unlimited distribution and don't need extra features. Best for high-volume releasers on a tight budget.
- Choose TuneCore if you release occasionally and want strong publishing services. Best for artists who prioritize collecting all royalty types.
- Choose CD Baby if you want physical distribution or prefer one-time fees over subscriptions. Best for artists who sell CDs or vinyl.
- Choose Ditto Music if you're interested in label services or want budget-friendly unlimited distribution with global support.
Start Your Distribution Journey
Whatever platform you choose, the most important thing is to start releasing music. Distribution is the bridge between your creativity and your audience—cross it.