Soundcloud vs. Spotify: The main differences
The two music streaming services SoundCloud and Spotify are now in direct competition. We show you the most important differences between the two providers.
SoundCloud vs. Spotify: website against software
Both streaming services emerged from start-up companies, but took completely different paths in the area of music streaming:
- SoundCloud is more the "YouTube for music", whereas Spotify pursues a much more commercial system.
- SoundCloud is only available in the browser. Spotify is available both in the browser and as software, but the software is preferred by many users.
- Spotify has both an iOS app and an Android app. However, the apps can only be used without restriction with a paid account. SoundCloud only provides an Android app for mobile access.
SoundCloud vs. Spotify: the offer
- Diversity is a top priority at SoundCloud. Everyone can upload their own music, podcasts and more to SoundCloud and present it to the public. Only songs that have already been published professionally are offered on Spotify.
- At SoundCloud you will not only find well-known artists such as David Guetta, but also many (still) unknown musicians and labels. Only the music of famous artists and labels appears on Spotify.
- Only official and already released tracks can be uploaded to Spotify, and SoundCloud also contains previews and numerous official and unofficial remixes.
- SoundCloud is much more personal than Spotify. The artists usually upload their music there themselves and write something about themselves. With Spotify, the label just uploads the songs.
SoundCloud vs. Spotify: advertising and costs
- There is no advertising on SoundCloud, but you can sometimes hear it in short spots. On Spotify, you can not only see the advertising, but also hear it between the tracks.
- At SoundCloud, revenue is primarily generated by premium users who want to upload audio material for more than three hours. Spotify earns mostly through advertising banners and announcements. If you are tired of the annoying advertisements on Spotify, you can pay to switch it off.
- SoundCloud and Spotify take two completely different approaches to funding. Spotify lets advertising customers and those who are plagued by advertising pay, SoundCloud only the music uploaders.
SoundCloud vs. Spotify: remuneration of the musicians
- The musician receives nothing for his works on SoundCloud. There is, however, a "Download on iTunes" button available that allows the musicians to make some profit. Unknown musicians have less chance of earning something through SoundCloud.
- With Spotify it looks very different. Due to the high advertising revenue, Spotify has the possibility to pay the artists. The label allegedly receives 0.6 to 0.84 cents per song played - exact details are secret.
SoundCloud vs. Spotify: The bottom line
- SoundCloud is the "YouTube for music" and therefore much more personal. The performers are usually still personal here and not represented by your labels. You won't find all the tracks of your favorite artists here, but previews, semi-official songs and podcasts are available. However, the interpreters see no cent for your work.
- On Spotify you will find all tracks and complete albums for almost all artists. Even if you are bothered with advertising here, the artists will be rewarded for their work.