TuneCore vs Soundcloud: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between TuneCore and Soundcloud 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:
TuneCore
Empower independent artists with global music distribution, publishing, and promotional tools.
Best for you if:
- • You need music distribution features specifically
- • Distribute music to 150+ global digital stores and streaming services.
- • Artists retain 100% ownership and creative control of their music.
Soundcloud
Audio platform for music and podcasts
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need podcast hosting features specifically
- • SoundCloud is inaccessible with the current browser.
- • Requires a modern, supported browser for functionality.
| At a Glance |  TuneCore |  Soundcloud |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Music Distribution | Podcast Hosting |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | TuneCore | Soundcloud |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 210 |
| Categories | Music DistributionRoyalty Management | Podcast HostingMusic Distribution |
How TuneCore and Soundcloud Compare
TuneCore
Empower independent artists with global music distribution, publishing, and promotional tools.
Paid
Soundcloud
Audio platform for music and podcasts
Free tier available
TuneCore is a music distribution tool. Soundcloud is in podcast hosting.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Soundcloud has a free tier. TuneCore is paid only.
Go with: Soundcloud
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has been rated yet.
Go with: TuneCore
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: TuneCore
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
TuneCore is paid. Soundcloud is freemium. Soundcloud lets you start free.
What's your use case?
TuneCore is a music distribution tool. Soundcloud is in podcast hosting. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
TuneCore
- Our pick for this comparison
Soundcloud
- Has a free tier
- More community upvotes (210)
- Better fit for podcast hosting
The Bottom Line
TuneCore is our pick. Soundcloud has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TuneCore or Soundcloud better?
TuneCore scores high/100 in our evaluation. TuneCore is paid and Soundcloud is freemium.
What are TuneCore and Soundcloud used for?
TuneCore: Empower independent artists with global music distribution, publishing, and promotional tools.. Soundcloud: Audio platform for music and podcasts.
What does TuneCore cost vs Soundcloud?
TuneCore is a paid tool. Soundcloud is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.