Starts atPaid from $11.99/mo billed yearly
- No free plan
- Watermark on free exports
- Commercial use on paid plans
Head-to-head
Uppbeat vs Artlist: where should YouTubers get music?
At a glance
Starts atFreemium, from $5.59/mo
- Free plan3 free downloads for individual use on own channels
Uppbeat is built for YouTubers starting out: 3 free downloads for your own channels, and paid plans from $5.59/month. Artlist is a larger paid library of music, sound effects and footage, now with AI tools. AI plans start at $11.99/month billed yearly, and stock catalog plans are sold separately.
Quick verdict
Side-by-side comparison
| Detail | Uppbeat | Artlist |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | 3 free downloads, individual use on your own channels | No free plan. Free AI samples |
| Entry price | From $5.59/month (ShortStack data) | AI Starter: $11.99/month billed yearly |
| Catalog | Music for creators | Music, sound effects, footage (stock plans priced separately) |
| Commercial use | Yes on paid plans (ShortStack data) | Plans state commercial use is covered |
| Watermarked previews | Not in our data | Trial and non-paying users get watermarked downloads |
| Best for | New YouTubers | Pros, agencies, footage needs |
For Shorts, TikTok and Reels
For a few Shorts a month, Uppbeat's 3 free downloads may cover you. Artlist makes sense when you post daily and need a wide catalog plus sound effects and stock footage.
Licenses here cover your uploads. TikTok and Instagram also have their own in-app music libraries.
How to choose
- Count how many new tracks you need a month.
- Three or fewer? Uppbeat free.
- Need footage and sound effects too? Artlist.
- Check the stock catalog plan price on Artlist, since the AI plans and stock plans differ.
Common questions
Is Uppbeat free for YouTube?
Yes. 3 free downloads a month for individual use on your own channels.
Does Artlist have a free plan?
No. You can sample its AI tools for free, but stock downloads need a paid plan.
Is Artlist worth it over Uppbeat?
If you need footage and sound effects with music, yes. For music only on a budget, Uppbeat.
Related: Artlist vs Epidemic Sound, Uppbeat alternatives, royalty-free music.
Sources: artlist.io/pricing, artlist.io/help-center/privacy-terms/artlist-license, uppbeat.io/pricing. Uppbeat's pricing page returned rate limit errors on 16 October 2026, so Uppbeat details come from our verified data (checked 13 October 2026). Checked on 16 October 2026. Based on published plans and terms, not a hands-on test.