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Beatchain vs DistroKid

Head-to-head comparison of pricing, features, and value

Quick Verdict

Best for 1 release/year
Beatchain
$8.99/year
Best for 5 releases/year
DistroKid
$19.99/year
Best for 10 releases/year
DistroKid
$19.99/year

Feature Comparison

Beatchain

Pricing Model
pay per-release
$9/release
Revenue Split
10% taken
Platforms
100+
Distribution Speed
moderate
Support Quality
average
Publishing Admin
✗ Not Available
PitchPlus Rating
3.8/10

DistroKid

Unlimited uploads for one low price

Pricing Model
subscription
$20/year
Revenue Split
0% - Keep 100%
Platforms
150+
Distribution Speed
1-2 days
Support Quality
N/A
Publishing Admin
N/A
PitchPlus Rating
8.5/10

Cost Breakdown by Release Frequency

1 Release per Year

Occasional artist, testing the waters

Beatchain
$8.99
✓ Better value
DistroKid
$19.99

5 Releases per Year

Regular release schedule

Beatchain
$44.95
DistroKid
$19.99
✓ Better value

10 Releases per Year

Frequent releases, prolific artist

Beatchain
$89.90
DistroKid
$19.99
✓ Better value

Pros & Cons

✓ Beatchain Pros

  • +YouTube Content ID included
  • +Open to all artists (no application required)

âš  Beatchain Cons

  • -Uses a 'Double Dip' pricing model (charges upfront fees AND takes a commission)
  • -Primary focus is on upsell marketing tools rather than core distribution
  • -Confusing/shifting pricing tiers (previously subscription-based, now pay-per-release)
  • -Foreign exchange fees may apply to payouts for non-USD accounts
  • -10% commission on revenue
  • -Multiple hidden fees and add-on costs
  • -High payment threshold ($25)

✓ DistroKid Pros

  • +Unlimited uploads for one low price
  • +Fast distribution (1-2 days)
  • +Keep 100% of your royalties
  • +YouTube Content ID included
  • +Automatic revenue splitting for collaborations
  • +No hidden fees

âš  DistroKid Cons

  • -Annual fee required to keep music live
  • -Basic customer support
  • -Limited promotional tools
  • -No label services or A&R support

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Beatchain vs DistroKid: Detailed Comparison

Choosing between Beatchain and DistroKid depends on your release frequency and priorities. Beatchain uses a pay per-release pricing model, while DistroKid operates on a subscription basis.

For occasional artists releasing 1-2 songs per year, Beatchain offers better value at $8.99 per year. However, frequent releasers with 10+ songs annually will find DistroKid more cost-effective at $19.99 per year. Consider your support needs, distribution speed requirements, and publishing administration options when making your decision.