European/Non-US Alternative to Storyblocks?

Last Updated: 2026-01-27

Storyblocks has become a go-to platform for creators who need music, video, and images in one subscription. But the Arlington, Virginia-based company isn't your only option. If you're seeking a provider outside the United States, several excellent alternatives exist — and some offer better value.

Why Go Non-US?

Content creators worldwide choose non-US platforms for practical reasons:

• GDPR compliance: European providers offer robust data protection
• Local payment processing: Pay in your currency without conversion fees
• Time-zone aligned support: Get help during your working hours
• Regional licensing expertise: Better understanding of local broadcast requirements

Top Non-US Alternatives to Storyblocks

Epidemic Sound (Sweden)

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Stockholm-based Epidemic Sound is one of the world's largest royalty-free music platforms. Here's how it compares to Storyblocks:

Where Epidemic Sound wins:

Epidemic Sound focuses purely on audio — and excels at it. Every track includes stems for isolating drums, bass, vocals, or melody. The 30-day free trial gives you full access (vs Storyblocks' 7 days). The Soundmatch AI analyzes your video and recommends tracks suited to each scene. Lower starting price too.

Where Storyblocks wins:

Storyblocks is an all-in-one media library with video, images, and audio. If you need stock footage alongside music, Storyblocks bundles everything. Their music catalog is also larger (though quantity ≠ quality).

Artlist

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Artlist is the other industry leader in royalty-free music, and has evolved into a true Storyblocks competitor with video, templates, and AI tools.

Where Artlist wins:

Artlist offers a complete creative suite — music, footage, templates, and AI tools — at a lower starting price. The licensing is straightforward: projects published during your subscription stay licensed forever. Artlist also offers 2 months free on annual plans. Their AI tools (video generator, voice cloning, image generation) are industry-leading.

Where Storyblocks wins:

Storyblocks has a larger raw catalog of video clips and images. If you need massive variety in stock footage, Storyblocks' library is bigger. They also offer After Effects and Premiere Pro templates.

Other Non-US Options Worth Considering

Envato Elements (Australia)

Melbourne-based Envato Elements is the closest direct competitor to Storyblocks. At $16.50/month, you get music, video, graphics, templates, photos, and fonts — millions of assets in one subscription.

Audio Network (United Kingdom)

London-based Audio Network offers 200,000+ tracks specializing in production music for broadcast and advertising. Higher pricing but broadcast-ready licensing included.

Premiumbeat (Canada)

Montreal-based Premiumbeat (owned by Shutterstock) offers per-track licensing starting at $49/song. Good for one-off projects if you don't need a subscription.

Licensing Comparison

Important: Both Epidemic Sound and Artlist work the same way — content you publish during your subscription stays licensed forever, but you cannot use downloaded tracks in new projects after canceling.

The Verdict

Choose Epidemic Sound if you primarily need music and sound effects. The Swedish platform offers the best audio-focused experience with stems for every track, AI-powered music discovery, and a generous 30-day free trial.

Choose Artlist if you want an all-in-one creative platform similar to Storyblocks but with better AI tools and simpler licensing. Great value for creators who need music + footage + templates.

Choose Envato Elements if you need the closest 1:1 Storyblocks replacement with massive asset variety across all media types.

Ready to Switch?

• Epidemic Sound — 30 days free →
• Artlist — 2 months free →

Complete List of Non-American Royalty-Free Music Providers

Here's every non-US royalty-free music provider we've identified:

Note: "Non-US" indicates the company operates outside the United States but specific headquarters location varies or is undisclosed.

Sources:

• Storyblocks Pricing
• Artlist Pricing
• Epidemic Sound Pricing
• G2 Storyblocks Reviews