Pond5 vs Depositphotos: 2026 Earnings Comparison
Choosing between Pond5 and Depositphotos is rarely about which platform is better in the abstract. It is about which one pays more for the specific portfolio you can build. This calculator runs that comparison on your actual asset count. Many contributors run both Pond5 and Depositphotos simultaneously on a non-exclusive basis. The calculator can sum the two income streams to model that distributed strategy. Use the calculator to model your exact portfolio size on both platforms.
Pond5 vs Depositphotos: Side-by-Side Rates
| Metric | Pond5 | Depositphotos |
|---|---|---|
| Photo RPI (avg) | — | $0.50 |
| HD Video RPC (avg) | $3.40 | $2.00 |
| Payout threshold | $50 | $50 |
| AI content allowed | NO | YES |
Earnings Scenarios
500 assets
Pond5: $1,700/yr
Depositphotos: $1,000/yr
2,500 assets
Pond5: $8,500/yr
Depositphotos: $5,000/yr
10,000 assets
Pond5: $34,000/yr
Depositphotos: $20,000/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Which pays more on average, Pond5 or Depositphotos?
On identical portfolio inputs, 2026 contributor data shows one of the two consistently outperforming the other for photo content, while video content often reverses the ranking. Use the calculator above to see your specific scenario.
Can I upload the same files to Pond5 and Depositphotos?
Yes, as long as you remain non-exclusive on both. Exclusivity on either platform prohibits uploading the same files elsewhere.
Which platform has the lower payout threshold?
Payout thresholds differ between Pond5 and Depositphotos. Lower thresholds mean faster cashflow but do not affect total earnings.
Which is better for new contributors, Pond5 or Depositphotos?
Both accept new contributors. The platform with the lower threshold and faster review turnaround typically wins the new-contributor decision.
Do Pond5 and Depositphotos share buyers?
Buyer overlap exists but is partial. Many enterprise buyers maintain accounts on multiple platforms, so the same image can sell on both with different per-sale revenue.