YouTube Music vs SoundCloud
YouTube Music
Google's music streaming service with integrated YouTube video content and free ad-supported tier.
Users with existing Google ecosystems, video content consumers, mainstream music discovery, and those wanting algorithmic personalization
VS
SoundCloud
Independent-focused audio streaming platform specializing in user-generated content and direct artist-to-fan engagement
Independent music fans, electronic/hip-hop producers, listeners seeking emerging artists, and users wanting direct artist support
Short Answer
YouTube Music offers a polished, algorithm-driven experience with seamless Google integration and video content support, while SoundCloud specializes in independent creator discovery and user-generated audio with direct artist-to-fan engagement features.
Our Verdict
Choose YouTube Music if you want a comprehensive audio-video platform deeply integrated with Google services, extensive personalization, and don't mind a corporate approach to discovery. Choose SoundCloud if you're passionate about independent creators, want direct artist-to-fan connections, and value discovering emerging talent in a community-driven environment.
YouTube Music5
10SoundCloud
Choose YouTube Music if
Users with existing Google ecosystems, video content consumers, mainstream music discovery, and those wanting algorithmic personalization
Key Differences at a Glance
🔹
Content Focus: YouTube Music wins (Audio + Video (unified library) vs User-generated audio (primarily))
🔹
Artist Monetization Tools: SoundCloud wins (Follower Exclusive Releases + direct fan support vs YouTube Partner Program with ad revenue sharing)
🔹
Discovery Type: AI-driven personalization using Google data vs Independent creator-focused community curation
Key Facts & Figures
| Metric | YouTube Music | SoundCloud | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Active Users(millions) | 1000+ million | — | — |
| Average Per-Stream Payout(USD) | $0.007 | — | — |
| Monthly Subscription Cost (Premium)(USD) | $13.99 | $12.99 | +8% |
| Average Song Catalog Size(millions) |
Key Differences
YouTube Music
Attribute
SoundCloud
Audio + Video (unified library)🏆
Content Focus
User-generated audio (primarily)
YouTube Partner Program with ad revenue sharing
Artist Monetization Tools
Follower Exclusive Releases + direct fan support🏆
AI-driven personalization using Google data
Discovery Type
Independent creator-focused community curation
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Last updated: May 6, 2026AI generated
