Low Scenario
iStock: $360/year
Artlist: $900/year
300 hd stock videos
iStock vs Artlist Contributor Earnings
The iStock vs Artlist earnings comparison estimates realistic stock income for iStock and Artlist contributors using 2026 contributor payout ranges. The goal is not to crown a universal winner, because exclusivity, upload time, and buyer audience can change the answer for each contributor. For exclusive programs, the calculator keeps the comparison nonexclusive unless the page clearly models exclusivity. This page models 300 hd stock videos on iStock, then shows low, average, and high revenue bands with monthly, yearly, daily, and per-asset values. Read the output as a range, then compare nearby calculators to see whether platform choice, format, or niche changes the result.
Royalty Rates 2026
| Platform | Photo RPI | Video RPC | Payout | AI |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iStock | $0-$3/asset/year | $1-$10/asset/year | $100 | not allowed |
| Artlist | n/a | $3-$25/asset/year | n/a | not stated |
Real Earnings Scenarios
Average Scenario
iStock: $1,050/year
Artlist: $2,700/year
300 hd stock videos
High Scenario
iStock: $3,000/year
Artlist: $7,500/year
300 hd stock videos
Frequently Asked Questions
Does exclusivity change the estimate?
Only pages and platforms with explicit exclusive and nonexclusive commission fields can model an exclusivity bonus. Otherwise, the calculator keeps the nonexclusive baseline.
Why do some platforms have fewer format pages?
The generator skips format pages when the data file lacks a useful metric for that media type. That avoids invented precision and keeps the pages honest.
What does the average scenario mean?
The average scenario uses the midpoint-style annual revenue metric from the data file for the selected platform and asset type. It should be treated as a realistic baseline, not a guaranteed return.
Which asset count should I enter?
Enter only accepted, searchable assets that are live for buyers. Drafts, rejected files, and unkeyworded uploads should not be counted.
How often should I revisit the estimate?
Recheck after major royalty changes, marketplace policy changes, or every few months of new uploads so the planning range stays realistic.