Is DistroKid Better Than LANDR in 2025? Full Comparison for Indie Artists

If you're an independent artist trying to get your music onto platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, or Amazon, you’ve likely come across two major names: DistroKid and LANDR. Both offer music distribution services, but they also bring their own set of features, pricing structures, and extra tools. So the big question is: Is DistroKid better than LANDR in 2025?

This in-depth guide will compare the two platforms side by side—looking at distribution speed, pricing, features, mastering tools, royalties, customer support, and value for money. Whether you’re releasing your first single or dropping your fifth EP, understanding which platform fits your needs can save you time, money, and headaches.

Overview: What Do DistroKid and LANDR Offer?

DistroKid is a music distribution platform founded in 2013 that has built a reputation for being fast, affordable, and geared toward independent artists. Its core selling point is unlimited releases for a flat annual fee.

LANDR, on the other hand, began as an AI mastering tool but has expanded into music distribution, sample libraries, and collaboration services. Unlike DistroKid, it offers a-la-carte pricing and bundling options with its mastering services.

DistroKid vs LANDR: Key Feature Comparison

Pricing Breakdown: Which One Saves You More?

Let’s do the math based on common use cases.

If you release frequently (3+ times a year):

• DistroKid: $22.99/year (unlimited releases)

• LANDR: $19.99/single = $59.97 for 3 singles, or $89/year for Studio Plan (limited mastering included)

DistroKid is far more cost-effective if you plan to release multiple tracks or albums in a year. LANDR can become pricey unless you’re bundling it with their mastering services.

Which One Delivers Faster to Streaming Platforms?

DistroKid typically delivers music to Spotify, Apple Music, and other DSPs in 24–72 hours. Many users report same-day uploads if metadata is clean. In contrast, LANDR can take 3–7 days due to internal mastering checks and QC processes.

If speed matters to you, especially around a planned release date or promo schedule, DistroKid has the edge.

Does LANDR's Built-In Mastering Make It Better?

Here’s where it gets interesting. LANDR’s origins lie in AI-powered mastering, and they’ve refined it over the years. This gives LANDR a unique advantage: it’s a one-stop shop for distribution + mastering, without needing a separate plugin or engineer.

That said, some artists feel LANDR mastering lacks nuance, especially for dynamic genres like jazz or classical. If you're producing radio-ready pop or hip-hop, LANDR mastering is good enough. But for more intricate sound design or mixing needs, many artists still prefer using dedicated mastering engineers or external plugins.

Royalty Payouts: Who Pays You More?

Both platforms allow you to keep 100% of your royalties. However, with DistroKid, you’ll need to pay extra to split royalties with collaborators automatically (via their “Teams” feature).

LANDR includes royalty splits in its Studio plan, but also charges more upfront per release.

There are no hidden fees for streaming royalties on either platform, but DistroKid does charge for optional add-ons like Shazam, YouTube Content ID, and store maximization.

Extra Features Worth Noting

DistroKid:

• Spotify Canvas Generator (Beta)

• HyperFollow smart links

• TikTok and Instagram integration

• SiriusXM and Pandora distribution

• Cover song licensing add-on

LANDR:

• Built-in collaboration tools (LANDR Sessions)

• Royalty collection

• Sample library access

• VST plugins & creative bundle included with Studio plan

• Mastering revision history

LANDR is more of a creative suite, while DistroKid is a distribution powerhouse. Your choice depends on whether you just want to release music—or also produce, collaborate, and polish it all in one platform.

Customer Support and User Experience

• DistroKid is notoriously fast for delivery but has received criticism for limited human support—most issues are handled via help articles or automated forms.

• LANDR offers email support with live agent access for Pro subscribers, making it more suitable if you need guidance during the mastering or distribution process.

Final Verdict: Is DistroKid Better Than LANDR?

Here’s the honest conclusion:
DistroKid is better if your goal is fast, affordable, unlimited music distribution.

But…
LANDR is better if you want an all-in-one music creation and distribution platform with integrated AI mastering and collaboration tools.

Choose DistroKid if:

• You’re an independent artist releasing music frequently.

• You already have your tracks mixed and mastered.

• Your budget is limited and you want full control over publishing and release scheduling.

Choose LANDR if:

• You need quick, affordable mastering for your songs.

• You prefer bundled services (distribution, samples, sessions).

• You’re releasing less frequently but want a more polished, all-in-one creative experience.

FAQ: Is DistroKid Better Than LANDR?

Does DistroKid offer mastering like LANDR?

No, DistroKid doesn’t offer built-in mastering. You’ll need to use third-party services or upload already-mastered tracks.

Can I use both DistroKid and LANDR?

Yes, but you can’t distribute the same song through both platforms simultaneously. You can, however, use LANDR to master your track and DistroKid to distribute it.

Which is cheaper for releasing 5 singles a year?

DistroKid is much cheaper if you release more than 2–3 tracks per year thanks to its unlimited plan.

Is LANDR’s mastering good enough for Spotify?

Yes, for most genres. But audiophiles or artists with complex mixes may prefer manual mastering for finer control.

Learn more about AI MUSIC