← Back to Comparison

The TuneCore Pricing Problem

TuneCore pioneered the "pay per release" model in 2006. At the time, it was revolutionary. But in 2026, the market has moved on — and TuneCore's pricing looks increasingly outdated.

Here's how TuneCore's costs compound for a working artist:

• 1 single + 1 album: $39.98/year
• 5 singles + 2 albums: $109.93/year
• 10 singles + 5 albums: $249.85/year
• 20 singles + 10 albums (prolific artist): $499.70/year

And these fees repeat every year. Over a 5-year career with a moderate catalog, you'll spend $1,000–$2,500 just to keep your music available — money that could go toward studio time, marketing, or equipment.

TuneCore vs OneSync: Feature Comparison

What TuneCore Does Well

To be fair, TuneCore has some strengths:

• Established reputation: 20 years in the industry
• YouTube Content ID included (no extra charge)
• TuneCore Social: Built-in social media management tools
• Detailed analytics: Solid reporting dashboard

But these aren't enough to justify the ongoing per-release fees when alternatives like OneSync offer the same — and more — for free.

What TuneCore Is Missing

Sync Licensing

TV, film, and advertising placements are one of the biggest revenue opportunities for independent artists. A single sync deal can pay $1,000–$500,000+. TuneCore doesn't offer sync licensing. OneSync does — for free. Learn how sync licensing works →

Publishing Administration

TuneCore offers publishing through a separate "TuneCore Publishing" service — which takes 15% of your publishing royalties. OneSync includes publishing admin at no cost and no commission. What is publishing admin? →

Royalty Advances

Need funds to record, tour, or market your music? OneSync offers royalty advances up to $750,000. TuneCore doesn't offer any advance program.

How to Switch from TuneCore to OneSync

1. Sign up at OneSync — free, no payment info needed
2. Download your ISRC codes from TuneCore's dashboard
3. Upload your catalog to OneSync using those same ISRC codes
4. Wait for confirmation that all stores have switched over (typically 3–7 days)
5. Let your TuneCore renewals lapse — your music will eventually be removed from their end, but OneSync's copies are already live