List of Platforms to Sell Stock Photos, Videos, and Digital Assets
Get a full market clarity report so you can build a winning digital business
We research digital businesses every day, if you're building in this space, get our market clarity reports
Selling stock assets online sounds simple until you compare platforms and realize they all have different commission structures, audience sizes, and approval processes. This guide breaks down 44 major platforms across five categories so you can pick the ones that match your work.
For deeper market insights across 100+ product categories, check out our market clarity reports.
Quick Summary
For maximum earnings without building an audience first, combine Adobe Stock (33-35% flat rate), Alamy (up to 50%), and one high-commission specialty platform like CGTrader (60-85%) or Creative Market (50%).
If you need traffic volume immediately, start with Shutterstock and Adobe Stock, but expect lower per-sale earnings (often under $1). The real money comes from either building massive portfolios (500+ assets) on microstock platforms or selling premium work on curated marketplaces where single sales can hit $50-$500.
Avoid exclusive contracts unless they offer at least 20% more commission than non-exclusive alternatives.
Our market clarity reports contain between 100 and 300 insights about your market.
Stock Photo Platforms
-
1. Shutterstock
What it is / how big it is
Shutterstock operates as one of the largest microstock photography platforms worldwide, hosting over 440 million images and serving 343,000+ active subscribers. The platform has paid out more than $1 billion to contributors since launch and operates in 21 languages.
Why it's good
The massive buyer base generates consistent download volume, and the commission structure scales from 25% to 60% as you level up through contributor tiers. You get access to trend insights, educational resources, and a mobile app for quick uploads.
Considerations
Each subscription download typically earns just $0.25 to $0.50, so you need hundreds or thousands of images in your portfolio to generate meaningful income.
Good for you if
You're a beginner willing to build a large portfolio over time, or you shoot travel and lifestyle content that appeals to commercial buyers.
-
2. Adobe Stock
What it is / how big it is
Adobe Stock integrates directly into Creative Cloud applications with 263 million assets, giving you instant access to 26+ million Adobe users. The platform accepts photos, videos, vectors, illustrations, and 3D models.
Why it's good
You get a straightforward 33% commission regardless of experience level, fast approval (often within 24 hours), and the ability to upload directly from Lightroom and Bridge. Adobe users can license your work without leaving their design workflow.
Considerations
The platform only accepts commercial and creative content, not editorial work like news photography or celebrity images.
Good for you if
You already use Adobe Creative Suite and want a simple submission process without portfolio review requirements.
-
3. Getty Images
What it is / how big it is
Getty Images represents the premium tier of stock photography with over 200 million high-quality assets and relationships with 1.5+ million customers worldwide. Individual images license for $150 to $499 or more.
Why it's good
The platform dominates editorial, news, and celebrity photography markets with strong connections to major media outlets and publishers. Getting accepted adds serious credibility to your portfolio.
Considerations
Getty requires exclusivity, pays only 20% commission on royalty-free images, and maintains extremely high quality standards that reject most applicants.
Good for you if
You shoot professional editorial or news content, have access to celebrity events, or prioritize prestige over volume-based earnings.
-
4. iStock (by Getty Images)
What it is / how big it is
iStock serves as Getty's microstock division with over 300 million assets and 825,000+ users. The platform offers both exclusive (25-45% commission) and non-exclusive (15%) contributor options.
Why it's good
You get Getty's infrastructure and customer base without the full exclusivity requirement, and commissions increase through tiered performance levels. The mobile app "Contributor by Getty Images" simplifies uploads.
Considerations
The non-exclusive rate starts at just 15%, and many downloads earn only pennies unless you reach higher tiers.
Good for you if
You want association with the Getty brand while testing stock photography or maintaining rights to sell elsewhere.
-
5. Alamy
What it is / how big it is
Alamy hosts 300+ million images as a British stock agency known for fair contributor terms and strong editorial collections. Commission rates range from 20% to 50% based on annual sales performance.
Why it's good
You retain full copyright and can sell non-exclusively, while reaching 40% commission (Gold tier) after just $250 in annual sales or 50% (Platinum) after $25,000. The platform particularly excels at editorial photography.
Considerations
Traffic levels lag behind Shutterstock or Getty, and commissions drop to 20% if you earn under $250 annually.
Good for you if
You shoot timely editorial or news content and can reliably hit $250+ in annual sales to unlock better commission tiers.
-
6. Dreamstime
What it is / how big it is
Founded in 2000, Dreamstime operates one of the oldest microstock platforms with 247+ million assets and 53+ million users. Contributors progress through five levels from Green to Platinum.
Why it's good
The platform accepts phone photos, offers commission rates from 25% to 50%, and provides detailed analytics plus built-in model and property release management. Registration remains free and straightforward.
Considerations
Reaching Platinum tier (50% commission) requires 150,000+ downloads, and the upload interface moves slowly compared to modern platforms.
Good for you if
You shoot with phones or entry-level cameras and plan to build a large portfolio gradually over several years.
-
7. Depositphotos
What it is / how big it is
Depositphotos provides microstock licensing with 250+ million files and serves over 2 million active buyers. The platform operates in multiple languages with worldwide reach.
Why it's good
Commission rates climb from 34% to 42% through four contributor levels, and you can upload via FTP for bulk submissions. The flexible API lets agencies integrate Depositphotos into their own platforms.
Considerations
Per-download earnings stay low like most microstock sites, typically under $1 for subscription downloads.
Good for you if
You want slightly better commission rates than Shutterstock while building a volume-based portfolio across multiple platforms.
-
8. 123RF
What it is / how big it is
123RF hosts over 200 million royalty-free images and serves buyers in 41 countries. The Asia-focused platform particularly dominates markets in Southeast Asia and China.
Why it's good
You get strong reach in Asian markets where Western platforms have less presence, plus commission rates from 30% to 60% depending on exclusivity. The platform accepts both commercial and editorial content.
Considerations
Non-exclusive contributors earn 30-40%, which sits in the middle range compared to other microstock options.
Good for you if
You create content that appeals to Asian markets or want geographic diversity in your platform mix. Understanding market pain points helps optimize your portfolio strategy, which our market clarity reports can help you identify.
-
9. 500px
What it is / how big it is
500px operates primarily as a photography community platform with 15+ million members, offering licensing through a partnership with Getty Images. The platform emphasizes artistic and creative photography over commercial stock.
Why it's good
You build a following within the photography community while monetizing through Getty's licensing network, earning 60% on exclusive content or 30% non-exclusive. The social features help showcase your work beyond just stock sales.
Considerations
Licensing operates through Getty Images, so you face Getty's approval standards and their customer base rather than direct 500px buyers.
Good for you if
You want to combine portfolio building, community engagement, and stock licensing in one platform.
For each competitor, our market clarity reports look at how they address or fail to address market pain points. If they don't, it highlights a potential opportunity for you.
Stock Video Platforms
-
10. Shutterstock (Video)
What it is / how big it is
Shutterstock's video division contains 29+ million clips and attracts 70-80 million monthly visits. The same subscriber base that licenses photos also downloads video footage.
Why it's good
Video footage earns significantly more than photos (typically $20-$30 per clip on subscription plans), and the commission structure reaches 30-40% based on lifetime earnings. You access the same massive buyer base.
Considerations
Technical requirements for video remain strict, including specific codecs, frame rates, and quality standards that require professional or semi-professional equipment.
Good for you if
You already contribute photos to Shutterstock and shoot video content that meets commercial quality standards.
-
11. Adobe Stock (Video)
What it is / how big it is
Adobe Stock video integrates with the same 26+ million Creative Cloud user base that licenses photos. The platform maintains the same flat-rate commission structure for all media types.
Why it's good
Video contributors earn 35% commission (higher than the 33% for photos), and you can upload directly from Premiere Pro. The workflow integration keeps Adobe users licensing within their creative environment.
Considerations
The 35% rate stays fixed regardless of performance, which helps or hurts depending on how other platforms' tiered systems would treat your sales volume.
Good for you if
You edit video in Premiere Pro and want the simplest possible upload workflow with predictable earnings.
-
12. Pond5
What it is / how big it is
Pond5 hosts the world's largest collection of royalty-free video with 22+ million clips. The artist-friendly marketplace lets contributors set their own prices and keep 35-60% commission.
Why it's good
You control your pricing strategy and earn 50-60% commission (exclusive) or 35-40% (non-exclusive), significantly higher than most video platforms. The marketplace accepts diverse content including footage, music, sound effects, images, and 3D models.
Considerations
You must market your own work more actively since Pond5 operates as a marketplace rather than a subscription service with guaranteed traffic.
Good for you if
You shoot premium or niche video content and want flexibility to price based on clip value rather than accept platform-set rates.
-
13. VideoHive (by Envato)
What it is / how big it is
VideoHive specializes in video templates, motion graphics, and After Effects projects with 1.7+ million assets. The platform sits within Envato Market's ecosystem of creative assets.
Why it's good
Commission rates for video templates and motion graphics reach 36-70% based on lifetime sales, higher than raw footage platforms. The marketplace particularly rewards creators who build reusable templates and presets.
Considerations
Success requires technical skills in After Effects, Premiere Pro, or Final Cut Pro to create templates rather than just shooting footage.
Good for you if
You create motion graphics templates, lower thirds, transitions, or video editing presets rather than raw stock footage.
-
14. Artgrid
What it is / how big it is
Artgrid positions itself as a premium cinematic stock footage platform with curated, film-quality content. The subscription-based service targets filmmakers and video editors seeking high-end footage.
Why it's good
The platform pays better rates for premium footage compared to microstock competitors, and the curation process keeps quality standards high. You join a selective community of filmmakers rather than competing with massive contributor volumes.
Considerations
Acceptance requires submitting sample work that demonstrates cinematic quality, technical excellence, and creative vision beyond basic stock footage.
Good for you if
You shoot cinema-quality footage with professional equipment and prioritize quality over quantity in your portfolio strategy.
-
15. Storyblocks
What it is / how big it is
Storyblocks operates on a subscription model with unlimited downloads, offering video footage, After Effects templates, music, and images. The platform particularly serves corporate video producers and marketing teams.
Why it's good
Contributors earn 50% of subscription revenue from the pool of downloads, which can generate consistent passive income. The platform actively seeks footage in specific categories where demand exceeds supply.
Considerations
The pool-based revenue model means earnings fluctuate based on total platform downloads and subscriber numbers rather than your individual sales.
Good for you if
You create corporate-friendly footage like office environments, business meetings, and lifestyle content that appeals to marketing teams.
-
16. MotionElements
What it is / how big it is
MotionElements operates as an Asia-focused marketplace with strong presence in Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia. The platform offers video footage, music, After Effects templates, and 3D models.
Why it's good
You get exclusive access to Asian markets where Western platforms have less penetration, and commission rates reach 50% for exclusive content. The marketplace accepts diverse content types beyond just video footage.
Considerations
Traffic from Western markets remains lower compared to Shutterstock or Adobe Stock.
Good for you if
You want geographic diversification in your earnings or create content that resonates with Asian buyers.
-
17. Blackbox
What it is / how big it is
Blackbox curates cinematic stock footage with an emphasis on outdoor adventure, travel, and lifestyle content. The platform maintains strict quality standards to differentiate from generic stock libraries.
Why it's good
Premium pricing and 40% commission on exclusive content generate higher per-clip earnings than microstock platforms. The curation process limits competition and maintains brand positioning.
Considerations
The selective approval process rejects footage that doesn't meet cinematic quality standards or fit the platform's adventure and lifestyle focus.
Good for you if
You specialize in outdoor, adventure, and travel cinematography with professional-grade equipment and storytelling skills. Researching what buyers actually need improves your approval rates, and our market clarity reports reveal these demand patterns across markets.
-
18. Dissolve
What it is / how big it is
Dissolve curates premium stock footage from independent filmmakers and boutique production companies. The rights-managed platform targets high-end commercial productions and advertising agencies.
Why it's good
You earn 50% commission on footage that can license for hundreds or thousands of dollars per use. The exclusive representation model protects your footage from appearing in competing stock libraries.
Considerations
Acceptance requires portfolio review demonstrating exceptional cinematography, and you must commit to exclusivity for submitted footage.
Good for you if
You produce broadcast-quality footage worthy of premium licensing and want representation that positions your work above commodity stock.
-
19. Film Supply
What it is / how big it is
Film Supply represents the ultra-premium tier of stock footage with highly curated collections targeting major advertising agencies and film productions. Each filmmaker receives personal representation.
Why it's good
Footage licenses for premium rates (often $500-$5,000+ per clip), and you get 50% commission plus active representation from the Film Supply team. The platform actively pitches your footage to creative directors and agencies.
Considerations
Gaining representation requires an exceptional portfolio and often industry connections, making Film Supply the most selective platform for video contributors.
Good for you if
You create film-quality cinematography for commercial advertising and want premium representation rather than self-service marketplace listing.
Our market clarity reports track signals from forums and discussions. Whenever your audience reacts strongly to something, we capture and classify it, making sure you focus on what your market truly needs.
Music and Audio Platforms
-
20. Epidemic Sound
What it is / how big it is
Epidemic Sound dominates YouTube creator licensing with music appearing in videos that generate 1.5 billion daily views. The platform operates on a subscription model serving 340,000+ content creators.
Why it's good
You earn from a 50/50 revenue split rather than per-download pricing, and YouTube integration drives massive usage volume. The platform handles all copyright claims and Content ID management for creators.
Considerations
Acceptance requires submitting original compositions for review, and you must sign exclusive agreements for tracks submitted to the platform.
Good for you if
You compose production music specifically for YouTube creators, podcasters, and social media content producers.
-
21. Artlist
What it is / how big it is
Artlist provides unlimited music and sound effects licensing to filmmakers, YouTubers, and video editors through a subscription model. The platform curates content with an emphasis on cinematic and emotional music.
Why it's good
Musicians earn from a revenue pool based on download popularity, with earnings potentially reaching thousands per month for frequently licensed tracks. The exclusive platform maintains high production quality standards.
Considerations
The pool-based model means earnings fluctuate based on overall platform performance and download volume, with payouts around 30% of subscription revenue distributed among artists.
Good for you if
You create cinematic, emotional, or atmospheric music that fits video content rather than traditional song structures.
-
22. AudioJungle (by Envato)
What it is / how big it is
AudioJungle operates as Envato's audio marketplace with over 2 million tracks and sound effects. The platform serves as one of the largest production music libraries for commercial projects.
Why it's good
Authors earn 37.5-70% commission based on lifetime sales, with the tiered system rewarding consistent performers. You set your own prices within platform guidelines, giving more control over earnings potential.
Considerations
AudioJungle periodically closes to new authors when the catalog reaches capacity, so timing matters for applications.
Good for you if
You produce commercial music tracks, corporate audio, and sound effects for video producers and advertisers.
-
23. PremiumBeat (by Shutterstock)
What it is / how big it is
PremiumBeat operates as Shutterstock's curated music division with exclusive, hand-picked tracks. The platform targets professional video editors and filmmakers seeking quality over volume.
Why it's good
Exclusive tracks earn 50% commission with premium pricing (typically $49-$199 per license), generating higher per-sale earnings than microstock audio platforms. The curation process maintains catalog quality and brand positioning.
Considerations
Gaining acceptance requires professional production quality and exclusive licensing commitment, with no ability to sell the same tracks elsewhere.
Good for you if
You produce broadcast-quality music and prefer exclusive representation with premium pricing over volume-based microstock sales.
-
24. Pond5 (Audio)
What it is / how big it is
Pond5's audio marketplace contains millions of music tracks and sound effects alongside video footage. The platform operates with artist-set pricing and flexible licensing terms.
Why it's good
You control pricing and keep 35-60% commission based on exclusivity, giving more flexibility than fixed-rate platforms. The non-exclusive option lets you list the same tracks on multiple marketplaces simultaneously.
Considerations
Success requires active marketing and competitive pricing since the marketplace model puts discovery responsibility partially on contributors.
Good for you if
You want pricing flexibility and non-exclusive terms that let you maximize reach across multiple audio platforms.
-
25. Soundstripe
What it is / how big it is
Soundstripe operates a subscription-based music licensing platform serving video creators, filmmakers, and businesses. The platform emphasizes hassle-free licensing with unlimited downloads.
Why it's good
Artists affiliated with a PRO (Performance Rights Organization) keep 100% of the writer's share plus receive upfront payments per track. The platform handles all licensing complexity for end users.
Considerations
The payment model favors composers with PRO affiliations (ASCAP, BMI, etc.), while non-PRO artists receive different compensation structures.
Good for you if
You belong to a performing rights organization and want to earn both upfront payments and backend performance royalties.
-
26. Jamendo
What it is / how big it is
Jamendo operates a dual-model platform offering both free Creative Commons music downloads and commercial licensing. The service contains 600,000+ tracks from independent artists worldwide.
Why it's good
Artists keep 65% commission on commercial licenses while also building a fan base through free downloads. The platform handles copyright protection and licensing administration for commercial uses.
Considerations
Making tracks available for free means relying entirely on commercial licensing for revenue rather than consumer sales.
Good for you if
You want to build audience reach through free distribution while monetizing commercial uses, or you support Creative Commons licensing philosophies.
-
27. Musicbed
What it is / how big it is
Musicbed curates premium music licensing for filmmakers, brands, and advertising agencies. The platform represents independent artists and bands with carefully selected catalogs.
Why it's good
Premium licensing for commercial advertising and film can generate thousands per placement, with artists earning 50% commission. The curation process maintains brand positioning and justifies premium pricing.
Considerations
Representation requires exceptional production quality and often industry referrals, making Musicbed one of the most selective platforms for music licensing.
Good for you if
You create professional recordings with unique artistic vision suitable for advertising and film soundtracks.
-
28. Audio Blocks (Storyblocks)
What it is / how big it is
Audio Blocks operates under the Storyblocks umbrella with unlimited download subscriptions for music, sound effects, and loops. The platform serves video editors and content creators needing production audio.
Why it's good
Contributors earn 50% of subscription revenue distributed among downloaded tracks, creating potential for passive income from catalog depth. The platform actively requests content in high-demand categories.
Considerations
Pool-based earnings mean your revenue depends on platform-wide performance and your download share rather than individual track pricing.
Good for you if
You produce commercial music, sound effects, and audio loops optimized for video production rather than consumer listening. When deciding which audio platforms match your style, our market clarity reports show what content types perform best in different markets.
-
29. Bensound
What it is / how big it is
Bensound operates as an independent music licensing platform offering royalty-free tracks with both free and premium licensing options. The streamlined catalog focuses on quality over quantity.
Why it's good
The small, curated approach means less competition within the catalog, and the platform handles all licensing administration. Artists benefit from direct audience relationships rather than marketplace dynamics.
Considerations
Smaller catalog size limits discovery compared to major platforms, requiring artists to promote their tracks independently.
Good for you if
You prefer working with smaller, artist-friendly platforms and can drive traffic to your music through your own marketing efforts.
Our market clarity reports include a deep dive into your audience segments, exploring buying frequency, habits, options, and who feels the strongest pain points, so your marketing and product strategy can hit the mark.
Illustration and Vector Platforms
-
30. Shutterstock (Vectors)
What it is / how big it is
Shutterstock's vector collection contains millions of illustrations, icons, and scalable graphics within the same platform that hosts photos. The subscriber base of 343,000+ licenses vectors alongside photography.
Why it's good
You access the same massive audience and commission structure (25-60%) that works for photos, with vectors often earning slightly better per-download rates. The platform accepts various illustration styles from technical diagrams to creative artwork.
Considerations
Vector artwork faces the same volume requirements as photos, needing hundreds of files to generate meaningful income at microstock pricing.
Good for you if
You already contribute to Shutterstock and create vector graphics, icons, or illustrations that complement your photo portfolio.
-
31. Adobe Stock (Vectors)
What it is / how big it is
Adobe Stock vectors integrate directly into Illustrator with the same 26+ million Creative Cloud user base. Designers license vectors without leaving their workflow.
Why it's good
The 33% flat commission rate applies to vectors just like photos, and you can upload directly from Illustrator. AI-powered keyword suggestions help optimize discoverability within the Creative Cloud ecosystem.
Considerations
Technical requirements include properly prepared vector files with clean paths and organized layers, which requires Illustrator proficiency.
Good for you if
You design in Illustrator and want seamless integration with the Adobe ecosystem where designers work.
-
32. Freepik
What it is / how big it is
Freepik operates one of the largest free and premium design resource platforms with 32+ million monthly users. The platform hosts vectors, photos, PSD files, and icons.
Why it's good
Contributors earn up to 50% commission through a tiered system, with the massive user base generating consistent download volume. The platform particularly excels at trendy illustration styles and design resources.
Considerations
The freemium model means many downloads come from free tier users generating lower revenue, though premium subscriptions offset this with higher payouts.
Good for you if
You create trendy vector illustrations, UI kits, or design elements that appeal to graphic designers and marketers.
-
33. Vecteezy
What it is / how big it is
Vecteezy combines free and premium vector graphics in a community-driven platform. The service hosts millions of vectors with both attribution-required free downloads and commercial licensing.
Why it's good
Artists earn from commercial (Pro) licenses while building exposure through free downloads with attribution. The platform offers flexible contributor terms without forced exclusivity.
Considerations
Revenue depends on converting free users to Pro subscriptions or individual commercial licenses rather than guaranteed per-download payments.
Good for you if
You want to balance exposure-building through free downloads with monetization from commercial licensing.
-
34. VectorStock
What it is / how big it is
VectorStock specializes exclusively in vector graphics with millions of illustrations, clipart, and design elements. The focused platform serves designers specifically seeking scalable artwork.
Why it's good
Contributors earn $3.50 per sale regardless of subscription or credit package type, providing predictable income compared to fluctuating commission percentages. The straightforward pricing model simplifies earnings calculations.
Considerations
Traffic volume stays lower than multi-media platforms like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock, limiting total earning potential without substantial portfolio size.
Good for you if
You prefer simple, fixed-rate payouts and create exclusively vector content rather than mixed media portfolios.
-
35. GraphicRiver (by Envato)
What it is / how big it is
GraphicRiver operates as Envato's marketplace for graphic templates, vectors, and design assets with 655,000+ items. The platform emphasizes complete design packages and templates over individual illustrations.
Why it's good
Authors earn 37.5-70% commission based on lifetime sales and set their own prices within guidelines. The marketplace rewards comprehensive design packages that solve specific needs rather than single illustrations.
Considerations
Success requires creating complete design systems, templates, or comprehensive graphic packages rather than isolated vector elements.
Good for you if
You create comprehensive design templates, logo packages, branding kits, or complete graphic solutions rather than individual vectors.
-
36. Creative Market
What it is / how big it is
Creative Market operates as a curated marketplace for design assets including vectors, fonts, templates, and graphics. The platform emphasizes independent creators and unique design aesthetics.
Why it's good
Designers keep 50% commission on all sales and control their own pricing, branding, and shop presentation. The curated marketplace maintains quality standards while giving creators independence.
Considerations
Standing out requires unique style and active shop management since the marketplace rewards creators who cultivate followings and release new products consistently.
Good for you if
You create distinctive design assets with unique style and want to build a personal brand within a curated marketplace environment.
-
37. Design Bundles
What it is / how big it is
Design Bundles operates as a marketplace for design resources, particularly strong in fonts, crafting graphics, SVG files, and printable art. The platform serves crafters, small businesses, and designers.
Why it's good
Artists earn 70% commission (among the highest in the industry) and control pricing for their products. The platform particularly excels at crafting and printable design niches.
Considerations
The audience leans toward crafters and DIY users rather than professional designers, so content should match those market needs.
Good for you if
You create SVG cut files, printable art, craft templates, or design resources targeting makers and crafting enthusiasts. Understanding specific market needs matters more than generic design skills, which our market clarity reports help clarify for 100+ product categories.
-
38. iStock (Vectors)
What it is / how big it is
iStock's vector division benefits from Getty Images' infrastructure with millions of illustrations and graphics. The platform offers exclusive (higher commission) and non-exclusive contributor options.
Why it's good
Vector artists start at 20% commission for non-exclusive content (higher than the 15% for photos), and exclusive contributors earn 25-45%. The Getty association provides credibility and access to enterprise customers.
Considerations
Even the exclusive rate tops out at 45%, which sits below what specialized vector platforms offer, though traffic volume can compensate.
Good for you if
You want Getty brand association for your vector work while maintaining the option to sell elsewhere through non-exclusive agreements.
-
39. Envato Elements
What it is / how big it is
Envato Elements operates as an unlimited subscription service offering vectors, photos, templates, fonts, and audio. Subscribers pay monthly for unlimited downloads across all content types.
Why it's good
Contributors earn from a revenue pool based on download popularity, with potential for significant passive income if your items get downloaded frequently. The subscription model drives higher download volumes than pay-per-item alternatives.
Considerations
Earnings fluctuate based on your share of total downloads and overall subscription revenue, making income less predictable than per-sale commissions.
Good for you if
You build large catalogs of design resources and prefer subscription-based passive income over individual sale tracking.
In our market clarity reports, you'll always find a sharp analysis of your competitors.
3D Model Platforms
-
40. TurboSquid
What it is / how big it is
TurboSquid dominates 3D marketplace space with over 2 million models and the largest buyer base in the industry. The platform serves game developers, architects, VFX studios, and 3D artists worldwide.
Why it's good
The massive traffic generates consistent sales volume, with artists earning 40% commission on standard models or up to 60% for CheckMate certified premium content. Enterprise customers pay premium prices for quality models.
Considerations
The 40% standard commission sits below many competitors, and CheckMate certification requires meeting strict technical and quality standards.
Good for you if
You prioritize maximum market exposure over commission rates and create professional-quality 3D models for commercial use.
-
41. CGTrader
What it is / how big it is
CGTrader operates as a designer-friendly marketplace with 4.5+ million members and 2+ million 3D models. The platform emphasizes fair creator compensation with industry-leading commission rates.
Why it's good
Artists earn 60-80% commission on exclusive content or 40-60% non-exclusive (significantly higher than TurboSquid), and you control your pricing. The platform includes 3D printing models, VR/AR assets, and game-ready content.
Considerations
While traffic volume stays below TurboSquid's, the higher commission rates often result in better net earnings per sale.
Good for you if
You want maximum control over pricing and higher commission rates while building presence in a rapidly growing marketplace.
-
42. Sketchfab
What it is / how big it is
Sketchfab operates as both a 3D model viewer platform and marketplace with 5+ million users. The real-time 3D viewer lets buyers preview models interactively before purchase.
Why it's good
The interactive viewer showcases models better than static images, increasing buyer confidence. Artists earn 70% commission through the Sketchfab Store, and the platform supports VR and AR applications.
Considerations
The platform functions more as a portfolio showcase than high-volume marketplace, with sales typically slower than TurboSquid or CGTrader.
Good for you if
You want an interactive portfolio platform that also enables direct sales, particularly for VR, AR, and web-based 3D applications.
-
43. 3DExport
What it is / how big it is
3DExport serves as a mid-sized 3D marketplace with focus on architectural visualization, automotive models, and general-purpose 3D assets. The platform operates with flexible contributor terms.
Why it's good
Artists earn 60-85% commission depending on exclusivity (among the highest rates available) and set their own pricing. Lower competition compared to TurboSquid means your models get more visibility.
Considerations
Traffic volume and brand recognition lag behind industry leaders, requiring more active promotion of your portfolio.
Good for you if
You create architectural visualization models, automotive assets, or general 3D content and want excellent commission rates with less marketplace congestion.
-
44. Gumroad
What it is / how big it is
Gumroad operates as a general e-commerce platform for digital products including 3D models, supporting files up to 16GB. The direct-to-customer model requires no monthly fees or subscriptions.
Why it's good
You keep approximately 90% of revenue (after transaction fees only) with complete control over pricing, branding, and customer relationships. The platform supports unlimited bandwidth and storage with fast setup under 10 minutes.
Considerations
Success requires bringing your own audience since Gumroad provides no marketplace discovery features or built-in traffic.
Good for you if
You have an established following from social media, YouTube tutorials, or other content creation and want maximum earnings control without marketplace fees. Creating content your audience actually wants matters more than technical skills alone, and our market clarity reports identify what markets truly need.
We have market clarity reports for more than 100 products; find yours now.
Read more articles
- List of Ad Networks to Earn Revenue Online
- How Profitable Is Selling Unity Assets?
- List of Websites Where You Can Submit Deals or Coupons
