LANDR vs DistroKid: Which Should You Use to Release Music?
DistroKid is the cheapest way to distribute unlimited releases to Spotify and Apple Music; LANDR bundles distribution with AI mastering, so it is the better all-in-one if you also need your tracks mastered. Pick DistroKid for pure distribution value, LANDR to master and release in one place.
Once you have made a track — AI-assisted or not — you need to get it onto streaming platforms and collect royalties. The two names every independent artist weighs are DistroKid and LANDR. They overlap on distribution but differ sharply on what else they bundle.
This guide compares them on price, what you get, and royalty handling, so you can route your releases the smart way instead of overpaying or under-serving your catalog.
DistroKid: cheapest unlimited distribution
DistroKid pioneered the flat-fee, unlimited-uploads model: one annual price, release as much as you want, keep 100% of royalties. If all you need is to get tracks onto Spotify, Apple Music and the rest at the lowest cost, it is hard to beat on pure value.
LANDR: distribution + AI mastering in one
LANDR bundles distribution with its well-known AI mastering (plus samples and collaboration tools). If your workflow includes mastering every release, getting both in one subscription can be simpler and cheaper than paying separately — which is why many AI-music creators prefer it.
Which fits your release workflow?
If your tracks are already mixed and mastered and you just need cheap, high-volume distribution, DistroKid. If you want to master and release in one place — common when you are generating and finishing music with AI — LANDR. Both let you keep your royalties; the deciding factor is whether you value bundled mastering.
LANDR vs DistroKid
| LANDR | DistroKid | |
|---|---|---|
| Core strength | Distribution + AI mastering | Cheap unlimited distribution |
| Pricing model | Subscription (bundled) | Low flat annual fee |
| AI mastering included | Yes | No |
| Keep your royalties | Yes | Yes |
| Best for | Master + release in one place | High-volume, lowest cost |
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Frequently asked
Is LANDR or DistroKid cheaper?
For pure distribution, DistroKid is typically cheaper. LANDR can be better value if you also need mastering, since it bundles both.
Do they take a cut of my royalties?
Both let you keep your streaming royalties; they charge a subscription rather than a percentage. Always confirm current terms on each plan.
Can I distribute AI-generated music?
Generally yes, if you have commercial rights to the track from your generator. Confirm your generator allows distribution and that the music meets each store’s policy. See our guide to releasing AI music on Spotify.
Which is better for an AI-music workflow?
LANDR often fits better because it bundles mastering, which AI tracks frequently need before release; DistroKid wins if you only need low-cost distribution.