What is the Difference Between an EP and an Album?

If you're a music fan or aspiring artist, you've likely seen the terms EP and Album used across streaming platforms, artist bios, and release announcements. But what exactly makes them different?

While both are collections of songs, they vary in length, intent, and how they’re perceived by the music industry and listeners. Here's a deeper look at what sets an EP apart from an album — and why choosing the right format matters.

What Is an EP?

An EP, short for Extended Play, might sound like a long release, but it's actually shorter than an album. Most EPs contain three to six tracks and typically run between 15 to 30 minutes.

Artists often use EPs as a creative tool to:

• Try out a new musical direction without the pressure of a full-length project
• Share fresh material between major album cycles
• Give fans a preview of what’s to come
• Build momentum, especially for emerging acts

The idea of the EP comes from the vinyl era, when it was introduced as a medium offering more music than a single, but less than a full LP (long play). Today, EPs are common across digital platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, and they’re especially useful in the fast-paced, playlist-driven world of streaming.

Helpful resource: According to RocketPages’ music release guide, EPs are one of the best ways for new artists to release quality content without needing a huge budget or long production schedule.

What Is an Album?

An album — often referred to as an LP or Long Play — is a more extensive collection of songs. It typically features seven or more tracks and runs 30 minutes or longer.

Albums are usually seen as a complete artistic statement, offering listeners a more immersive or thematic experience. Many artists use albums to:

• Tell a story or explore a concept in depth
• Showcase their growth or musical range
• Anchor a larger promotional cycle (including music videos, tours, or merch drops)

Some of the most impactful records in music history — like Beyoncé’s Lemonade, Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon, or Kendrick Lamar’s DAMN. — are albums because they reflect a full vision, not just a collection of songs.

Explore further: Check out RocketPages' breakdown of music production tools to learn how artists create albums using modern technology like DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations).

Why Artists Choose an EP or Album

Choosing between an EP and an album depends on several factors, including where you are in your musical journey, your available resources, and your creative goals.

An EP is typically chosen when an artist wants to:

• Release music quickly without the pressure of a major launch
• Share a small batch of songs that don't fit into a larger concept
• Test a new genre, style, or production method
• Keep fans engaged in between major projects

On the other hand, an album makes sense when an artist is ready to:

• Create a bigger artistic statement
• Dive deep into storytelling or personal themes
• Build a strong brand moment (like a debut or comeback)
• Invest time and resources into a more polished, cohesive project

For newer musicians or producers, an EP can be a smart way to practice releasing music and build confidence. According to RocketPages’ beginner music checklist, shorter projects can help artists develop consistency and improve their production skills over time without feeling overwhelmed.

EPs, Albums, and the Streaming Era

In the age of Spotify and YouTube Music, the difference between EPs and albums has blurred. Some artists label longer releases as EPs for stylistic reasons, while others treat short albums as full projects to qualify for charts or playlists.

Streaming platforms typically categorize a release as an EP if:

• It has fewer than seven songs
• It runs under 30 minutes

But ultimately, what you call your project is a creative decision. Some artists prefer to call their 6-track release an album because of its depth. Others intentionally use the “EP” label to signal something more casual or experimental.

Final Thoughts: Which Format Is Right for You?

• There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — both EPs and albums have their place in music culture.
• If you’re just getting started or want to test new sounds, an EP offers flexibility, speed, and a lower barrier to entry. It’s a fantastic way to start releasing music, get feedback, and build a portfolio.
• If you’re looking to make a bold statement, explore big themes, or elevate your artistry, an album gives you more time and space to connect with your audience on a deeper level.
• Both formats are valid and valuable — what matters most is choosing the one that fits your current goals, creative vision, and capacity.

Want to Learn More?

Here are some hand-picked articles from RocketPages to help you plan your next release:

• How to Release Your Own Music — Step by Step
• Digital Audio Workstations Explained
• The Ultimate Beginner’s Music Learning Checklist
• Can AI Teach You Music? Pros and Cons