Artlist vs Shutterstock: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Artlist and Shutterstock comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Artlist
Unlimited royalty-free music, sound effects, and stock footage for creators.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need stock assets features specifically
- • Unlimited royalty-free music, SFX, and footage
- • Universal license for all projects
Shutterstock
Stock images, photos, and videos
Best for you if:
- • You need graphic design features specifically
- • Stock photo marketplace
- • Photos, videos, and music
| At a Glance |  Artlist |  Shutterstock |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Stock Assets | Graphic Design |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Artlist | Shutterstock |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Stock AssetsDigital Asset Management | Graphic DesignStock Assets |
How Artlist and Shutterstock Compare
Artlist
Unlimited royalty-free music, sound effects, and stock footage for creators.
Free tier available
Shutterstock
Stock images, photos, and videos
Paid
Artlist is a stock assets tool. Shutterstock is in graphic design.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Artlist has a free tier. Shutterstock is paid only.
Go with: Artlist
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has been rated yet.
Go with: Artlist
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Artlist
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Artlist is freemium. Shutterstock is paid. Artlist lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Artlist is a stock assets tool. Shutterstock is in graphic design. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Artlist
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Shutterstock
- Better fit for graphic design
The Bottom Line
Artlist is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Artlist or Shutterstock better?
Artlist scores high/100 in our evaluation. Artlist is freemium and Shutterstock is paid.
What are Artlist and Shutterstock used for?
Artlist: Unlimited royalty-free music, sound effects, and stock footage for creators.. Shutterstock: Stock images, photos, and videos.
What does Artlist cost vs Shutterstock?
Artlist is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Shutterstock is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.