Difference Between Standard and Extended Licences on Freepik

Navigating the world of stock images can be tricky, especially when it comes to understanding licensing. Freepik, a popular platform for free and premium graphic resources, offers two main types of licenses: standard and extended. But what distinguishes one from the other? Knowing these differences is crucial for ensuring legal compliance and making the most of the resources you acquire. Let's dive into what each license offers and when you might need the extended version.

TL;DR:
Freepik's standard licence allows for basic use of stock images like personal projects and limited commercial use, while the extended licence permits broader commercial applications, including merchandise and extended distribution. Understanding these distinctions helps ensure compliance and avoid legal issues.

Understanding the nuances between Freepik's standard and extended licenses can be the difference between a smooth project and a legal headache. The standard license is typically sufficient for personal projects and some commercial uses. However, if you're planning to use images in products for sale or extensive commercial distribution, the extended license becomes necessary. This guide will help you navigate these choices with confidence.

What are Freepik's Standard and Extended Licences?

Standard Licence: This license allows you to use Freepik's resources for personal projects and limited commercial purposes, such as social media posts or website graphics. You're also permitted to modify the images as needed, provided you don't redistribute them directly.

Extended Licence: With this license, you can use Freepik's resources for a wider range of commercial purposes, including the creation of products for sale. This includes merchandise like t-shirts, mugs, and other items where the image is a central part of the product.

"Most standard licenses allow for print and digital usage, but they establish a limit of reproductions you can make."

How Do Usage Rights Differ Between the Two Licences?

The key difference lies in the scope of use. Standard licenses are generally restrictive, limiting the number of copies or impressions you can make. For instance, using an image in a marketing campaign with a reach of 500,000 impressions is typically within a standard license's scope. However, if your campaign exceeds this limit, an extended license is required.

Key Differences:

• Commercial Use: Standard licenses limit commercial use to a certain extent, while extended licenses allow for broader commercial applications.
• Modification Rights: Both licenses allow modifications, but distribution rights differ.
• Reproduction Limits: Extended licenses often remove or increase reproduction limits.

What are Common Use Cases for Each Licence Type?

• Personal blog images
• Social media posts with limited reach
• Personal or small business website graphics

• Merchandise for sale, like printed t-shirts or mugs
• Mass media advertising campaigns with large reach
• Digital products like e-books or templates with resale rights

How Do Restrictions Vary Between Standard and Extended Licences?

Restrictions are crucial when deciding between licenses. Standard licenses often have print limits, meaning you can only produce a certain number of copies. Extended licenses typically remove these restrictions, allowing for unlimited reproductions and broader distribution.

List of Restrictions:

• Standard Licence:
• Limited to a set number of reproductions
• Cannot be used in items for resale
• Extended Licence:
• No reproduction limits
• Can be used in items for resale

When Should You Choose an Extended Licence Over a Standard One?

Choosing an extended license is advisable when your project involves resale or mass distribution. For example, if you're creating a product line featuring a specific image, or if your marketing campaign is expected to reach millions, the extended license ensures that you're covered legally.

How to Ensure Compliance with Freepik Licences?

Ensuring compliance involves understanding the terms and keeping records of your licenses. Here are some best practices:

1. Read the License Agreement: Always read and understand the terms of the license before using an image.
2. Keep Documentation: Maintain a record of all the licenses you purchase. This can be crucial if your use is ever questioned.
3. Regular Audits: Periodically review your projects to ensure that all uses comply with the licenses you hold.

Key takeaway: Understanding the differences between standard and extended licenses helps you avoid legal pitfalls and ensures you're using Freepik's resources correctly.

FAQ

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Additional Resources

• Standard License vs Extended License - The Ultimate ... - An Extended license has all the same rights from Standard but gets rid of two important limitations: the print runs limit and the reselling restriction.
• Standard License Vs. Extended License for Images - The Extended License gives you all the perks of Standard Licenses but doesn't have limitations for print runs—you can create books, magazines, newspapers, and ...
• Standard vs. Extended Licenses: What's the Difference for ... - Standard Licenses keep costs low and accessible for small teams, freelancers, and creators. Extended Licenses cost more, but they protect you from legal ...