# Dreamstime vs iStock Comparison
---
## AI Generated Summary
- **G2 reviewers report** that Dreamstime excels in user satisfaction, boasting a higher overall score compared to iStock. Users appreciate the platform's extensive library of high-quality stock images, which are easily accessible through advanced search filters, making it a preferred choice for those on a budget.
- **Users say** that Dreamstime's interface is particularly intuitive, allowing for quick and easy image display. This is highlighted by feedback mentioning the rapid review process for images, which enhances the overall user experience.
- **Reviewers mention** that iStock is a reliable resource for graphic designers, often saving them time with its excellent search feature. Users find that the platform offers a variety of options for each photo, which can be a significant advantage when looking for specific styles.
- **According to verified reviews** , Dreamstime's ease of setup is a standout feature, with users noting that the onboarding process is straightforward. In contrast, iStock's setup process has received mixed feedback, with some users finding it less user-friendly.
- **G2 reviewers highlight** that while both platforms cater to small businesses, Dreamstime has a stronger presence in this market segment, with a higher percentage of reviews coming from small business users. This suggests that Dreamstime may be better tailored to the needs of smaller organizations.
- **Users express concerns** about the quality of support from iStock, which is rated lower than Dreamstime. Reviewers have noted that while iStock has its strengths, the support experience can be lacking, making it a less favorable option for those who prioritize customer service.



---
## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the difference between Dreamstime vs iStock?

Dreamstime stands out for higher reviewer satisfaction, broader selection variety, and stronger support compared to iStock.

| [Dreamstime](https://www.g2.com/products/dreamstime/reviews) | [iStock](https://www.g2.com/products/getty-images-istock/reviews) |
| --- | --- |
| 4.3/5 (646 reviews) | 3.5/5 (117 reviews) |
| Small-Business | Small-Business |
| 8.4 | 7.6 |
| 7.7 | 6.4 |
| Selection Variety (27 all-time mentions) | Images (4 all-time mentions) |



### How do the pricing models of Dreamstime and iStock compare?

Dreamstime is rated as the stronger value on price and cost satisfaction compared to iStock.

- **Dreamstime:** In recent reviews, buyers highlight affordable options, clear licensing, and the availability of both free and paid content.
- **iStock:** Reviewers frequently cite high costs, restrictive subscription limits, and confusing pricing as drawbacks, with 5 all-time mentions of cost and 3 of pricing issues.
- **Switching reasons:** Recent reviewers mention switching from iStock due to dissatisfaction with pricing transparency and refund policies.



### What are the best alternatives to Dreamstime and iStock?

The top 3 alternatives to Dreamstime and iStock are Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and Storyblocks.

| Product | G2 Rating (reviews) | Largest Segment | Pricing Insight | Top Reviewer-Cited Strength |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Dreamstime](https://www.g2.com/products/dreamstime/reviews) | 4.3/5 (646 reviews) | Small-Business | Affordable options, free and paid content | Selection Variety (27 all-time mentions) |
| [iStock](https://www.g2.com/products/getty-images-istock/reviews) | 3.5/5 (117 reviews) | Small-Business | Pricing can be expensive, restrictive subscriptions | Images (4 all-time mentions) |
| [Shutterstock](https://www.g2.com/products/shutterstock-shutterstock/reviews) | 4.4/5 (656 reviews) | Small-Business | — | — |
| [Adobe Stock](https://www.g2.com/products/adobe-adobe-stock/reviews) | 4.3/5 (194 reviews) | Small-Business | — | — |
| [Storyblocks](https://www.g2.com/products/storyblocks/reviews) | 4.6/5 (429 reviews) | Small-Business | — | — |



### Which Stock Photos features should I prioritize when comparing Dreamstime and iStock?

Buyers should prioritize selection variety, image quality, ease of use, pricing satisfaction, and customer support when comparing Dreamstime and iStock.

- **Selection Variety:** Dreamstime (27 all-time mentions), iStock (1 all-time mention as content abundance)
- **Image Quality:** Dreamstime (22 all-time mentions), iStock (3 all-time mentions)
- **Ease of Use:** Dreamstime (8.5/10), iStock (8.2/10)
- **Pricing Satisfaction:** Dreamstime (4 all-time mentions of affordable/pricing), iStock (5 all-time mentions of cost, 3 of pricing issues)
- **Customer Support:** Dreamstime (7.7/10), iStock (6.4/10)



### What are the pros and cons of Dreamstime vs iStock?

Dreamstime’s headline strength is its selection variety, while iStock’s is its image quality.

- **Dreamstime strengths:** Selection variety (27 all-time mentions), image quality (22), ease of use (16), affordable options (5), easy search (12), and helpful support (8).
- **Dreamstime trade-offs:** Cost (7), download issues (4), limited selection in some areas (3).
- **iStock strengths:** Image quality (3), content quality (2), ease of finding images (1), and a reliable library for niche topics.
- **iStock trade-offs:** Cost and expensive pricing (5 each), poor customer support (5), payment and subscription issues (4 and 3), and restrictive account setup (2).



### Is Dreamstime or iStock better for small businesses?

Dreamstime is the better fit for small businesses, supported by higher satisfaction scores and positive small-business reviewer sentiment.

- **Dreamstime:** Largest segment is Small-Business; reviewers highlight affordability, ease of use, and a wide selection as key benefits for small teams.
- **iStock:** Largest segment is Small-Business; reviewers note quality images but frequently mention high costs and restrictive subscription terms as challenges for small businesses.



### Which Stock Photos platform has better integrations?

Dreamstime and iStock are at parity for integrations, with no reviewer-cited integrations for either platform.

- **Dreamstime:** No integrations mentioned in recent reviews.
- **iStock:** No integrations mentioned in recent reviews.



### How do Dreamstime and iStock compare on customer support?

Dreamstime leads iStock on Quality of Support by a material margin of 1.3 points (7.7 vs 6.4).

- **Dreamstime:** Reviewers consistently praise helpful and prompt customer service, with positive experiences highlighted in recent reviews.
- **iStock:** Reviewers frequently cite poor customer support, inflexible refund policies, and negative experiences, with 5 all-time mentions of poor support and multiple recent complaints about unhelpful service.



### Which is easier to implement, Dreamstime or iStock?

Dreamstime is easier to implement than iStock, with a 0.8-point advantage in Ease of Setup (8.4 vs 7.6).

- **Dreamstime:** Reviewers describe a straightforward setup process, easy onboarding, and intuitive navigation for both contributors and buyers.
- **iStock:** Reviewers note generally easy setup but mention occasional confusion with account setup and subscription management.



| | Dreamstime | iStock | 
|---|---|---|
| **Star Rating** | 4.3 out of 5 | 3.5 out of 5 | 
| **Total Reviews** | 645 | 117 | 

---
## Top Pros & Cons

### Dreamstime

Pros:
- Images (45 reviews)
- Ease of Use (42 reviews)

Cons:
- Cost (17 reviews)
- Expensive (12 reviews)

### iStock

Pros:
- Images (4 reviews)
- Quality (3 reviews)

Cons:
- Cost (5 reviews)
- Expensive (5 reviews)

---
## Ratings Comparison
| Rating | Dreamstime | iStock | 
|---|---|---|
  | **Meets Requirements** | 7.7 (32 reviews) | 7.9 (84 reviews) | 
  | **Ease of Use** | 8.5 (565 reviews) | 8.2 (84 reviews) | 
  | **Ease of Setup** | 8.4 (525 reviews) | 7.6 (22 reviews) | 
  | **Ease of Admin** | Not enough data | 9.0 (7 reviews) | 
  | **Quality of Support** | 7.6 (22 reviews) | 6.4 (66 reviews) | 
  | **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?** | Not enough data | 8.1 (8 reviews) | 
  | **Product Direction (% positive)** | 5.8 (28 reviews) | 6.0 (81 reviews) | 

---
## Pricing

### Dreamstime

#### Entry-Level Pricing

Plan: 15 Downloads / Month

Price: $25.00 15 Downloads Per Month

Key Features:
- Any size / resolution
- Unlimited printed and downloaded copies
- Lifetime license

[Browse all 14 editions](https://www.g2.com/products/dreamstime/pricing)

#### Free Trial

Yes

### iStock

#### Entry-Level Pricing

No pricing available

#### Free Trial

No information available

---
## Features Comparison By Category

### Stock Footage

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **Dreamstime** | N/A | N/A |
| **iStock** | 6.4/10 | 20 |

#### Pricing

| Feature | Dreamstime | iStock | 
|---|---|---|
| **Free Footage** | Not enough data | 5.6 (15 reviews) | 
| **Pay Per Image** | Not enough data | 5.1 (15 reviews) | 
| **Subscription** | Not enough data | 5.3 (15 reviews) | 

#### Media

| Feature | Dreamstime | iStock | 
|---|---|---|
| **360/VR** | Not enough data | 5.0 (7 reviews) | 
| **Animation** | Not enough data | 6.5 (9 reviews) | 
| **4K High Definition** | Not enough data | 6.8 (10 reviews) | 

#### Agentic AI - Stock Footage

| Feature | Dreamstime | iStock | 
|---|---|---|
| **Cross-system Integration** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

### Stock Music

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **Dreamstime** | N/A | N/A |
| **iStock** | N/A | N/A |

#### Media

| Feature | Dreamstime | iStock | 
|---|---|---|
| **Sounds Effects** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Genre Tagging** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

#### Pricing

| Feature | Dreamstime | iStock | 
|---|---|---|
| **Royalty Free** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Pay Per Track** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Subscription** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

#### Agentic AI - Stock Music

| Feature | Dreamstime | iStock | 
|---|---|---|
| **Cross-system Integration** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

---
## Categories
**Shared Categories (1):** [Stock Photos Websites](https://www.g2.com/categories/stock-photos)


**Unique to iStock (2):** [Stock Footage Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/stock-footage), [Stock Music Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/stock-music)


---
## Reviewer Demographics

### By Company Size

| Segment | Dreamstime | iStock | 
|---|---|---|
| **Small-Business** | 95.6% | 60.2% | 
| **Mid-Market** | 3.3% | 31.0% | 
| **Enterprise** | 1.1% | 8.8% | 

### By Industry

#### Dreamstime

- **Arts and Crafts:** 8.9%
- **Design:** 8.8%
- **Graphic Design:** 6.7%
- **Photography:** 6.4%
- **Marketing and Advertising:** 4.8%
- **Publishing:** 4.5%
- **Consulting:** 3.0%
- **Entertainment:** 2.8%
- **Non-Profit Organization Management:** 2.7%
- **Writing and Editing:** 2.5%
- **Other:** 48.9%

#### iStock

- **Marketing and Advertising:** 17.7%
- **Graphic Design:** 6.2%
- **Non-Profit Organization Management:** 4.4%
- **Media Production:** 3.5%
- **Photography:** 2.7%
- **Information Technology and Services:** 2.7%
- **Telecommunications:** 2.7%
- **Design:** 2.7%
- **Construction:** 2.7%
- **Public Relations and Communications:** 2.7%
- **Other:** 52.2%

---
## Alternatives

### Alternatives to Dreamstime

- [Shutterstock](https://www.g2.com/products/shutterstock-shutterstock/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (655 reviews)
- [Adobe Stock](https://www.g2.com/products/adobe-adobe-stock/reviews) — 4.3/5 stars (194 reviews)
- [Depositphotos](https://www.g2.com/products/depositphotos-inc-depositphotos/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (45 reviews)
- [Storyblocks](https://www.g2.com/products/storyblocks/reviews) — 4.6/5 stars (429 reviews)
- [Magnific](https://www.g2.com/products/magnific/reviews) — 4.7/5 stars (174 reviews)
- [123RF](https://www.g2.com/products/123rf/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (22 reviews)
- [Vecteezy](https://www.g2.com/products/vecteezy/reviews) — 4.7/5 stars (8648 reviews)
- [Alamy](https://www.g2.com/products/alamy/reviews) — 3.5/5 stars (10 reviews)
- [Flickr](https://www.g2.com/products/flickr/reviews) — 4.1/5 stars (332 reviews)
- [PixaBay](https://www.g2.com/products/pixabay/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (163 reviews)

### Alternatives to iStock

- [Shutterstock](https://www.g2.com/products/shutterstock-shutterstock/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (655 reviews)
- [Storyblocks](https://www.g2.com/products/storyblocks/reviews) — 4.6/5 stars (429 reviews)
- [Adobe Stock](https://www.g2.com/products/adobe-adobe-stock/reviews) — 4.3/5 stars (194 reviews)
- [Vecteezy](https://www.g2.com/products/vecteezy/reviews) — 4.7/5 stars (8648 reviews)
- [123RF](https://www.g2.com/products/123rf/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (22 reviews)
- [PixaBay](https://www.g2.com/products/pixabay/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (163 reviews)
- [Magnific](https://www.g2.com/products/magnific/reviews) — 4.7/5 stars (174 reviews)
- [Pexels](https://www.g2.com/products/pexels/reviews) — 4.6/5 stars (113 reviews)
- [Unsplash](https://www.g2.com/products/unsplash/reviews) — 4.7/5 stars (105 reviews)
- [Flickr](https://www.g2.com/products/flickr/reviews) — 4.1/5 stars (332 reviews)

---
## Top Discussions

### Dreamstime

- Title: [What is Dreamstime used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-dreamstime-used-for) — 1 comment *(includes official response)*
  > **Top comment:** "Dreamstime serves as a comprehensive source for high-quality visual content, enabling users to find and license images that perfectly fit their projects...."

### iStock

- Title: [What is the best software for inventory management?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-the-best-software-for-inventory-management) — 1 comment
  > **Top comment:** "Hello. Our company has installed software from NetSuite, but we are also in the process of looking for a more convenient solution for forecasting and..."

---
**Source:** [G2.com](https://www.g2.com) | [Comparison Page](https://www.g2.com/compare/dreamstime-vs-getty-images-istock)