Mixcloud and SoundCloud are two music streaming services that allow users to upload and share audio.
Both Mixcloud and SoundCloud offer the ability to upload single tracks. But Mixcloud offers the additional benefit of clearing the underlying copyrights within DJ mixes, radio shows and live streams where tracks made by others have been played.
Copyright compliance
Mixcloud users can upload any type of long-form audio. They may choose to time-stamp individual tracks if they wish. And they can easily share across social networks or on websites via an embeddable player. Every upload is scanned with advanced content ID technology to analyse the audio and identify tracks within.
Mixcloud is also the only music platform that offers audio and visual live streaming functionality. Every live stream is recorded and can be saved to your profile. That way, listeners who may have missed a stream can listen back again at their convenience.
SoundCloud has a copyright detection system that can flag and takedown mixes or shows with copyrighted material. Meanwhile, Mixcloud has licensing agreements with many record labels and publishers. These allow you to upload or livestream copyrighted music without worrying about takedown issues.
Free offerings for creators
Mixcloud’s free tier for creators offers up to 10 uploads with no time limits on each upload. For example, you could upload 10x three-hour mixes totalling 30 hours. The platform also includes complimentary copyright clearance, and basic stats for all uploaders.
SoundCloud’s free “Next” tier for creators offers a maximum of three hours total of uploads, private tracks and basic insights.
Paid subscription offerings for creators
Mixcloud offers a “Pro” subscription package which gives creators the following:
- Unlimited uploads in high quality audio
- Live stream functionality
- Monetization and exclusives via their own Subscriptions and Tips
- In depth Stats
- Written Posts
- Profile customization and advanced content controls (scheduling, private links, comments and play count visibility).
SoundCloud offers a “Next Pro” subscription which includes:
- Unlimited track uploads above the three hour limit
- Extended reach
- Distribution to Spotify, Apple Music and TikTok
- Fan insights and profile customization.
Paid subscription offerings for listeners
Mixcloud offers a “Premium” site-wide subscription package, giving subscribers offline access on mobile, ad-free listening with no limits. Mixcloud also offers individual “Creator Subscriptions” for creators who would like to offer exclusives and offline options for their uploads.
SoundCloud offers a “Go” subscription where you can save tracks offline and ad-free. Their “Go+” subscription grants added access to the full “Go+” catalogue.
Community engagement and discovery
Mixcloud’s emphasis on curated content and radio-style programming fosters a sense of community among its users. The platform encourages interaction through comments, likes, and shares, facilitating connections between creators and listeners. Mixcloud’s discovery algorithms prioritise quality over quantity, surfacing content based on user preferences and listening habits.
While SoundCloud boasts a larger user base and a more extensive library of tracks, its community features are often overshadowed by issues such as spam and fake accounts.