Podcasting

Podcast Hosting Platforms

Your host stores your audio, generates your RSS feed, and distributes your show to every directory. Choosing the right one matters, here's how the main options compare.

Choosing the right host

Every podcast host stores your audio files and generates the RSS feed that directories (Spotify, Apple, Amazon) use to pull your episodes. Beyond that, they differ significantly: some offer unlimited storage, others cap by upload hours. Some provide advanced analytics, website builders, premium feed support, dynamic ad insertion, or multi-show management. For a first show: prioritise ease of use and reliable RSS. For an established show: analytics depth, monetisation features, and support quality become more important. Also use our Podcast Distributor Selector for a personalised recommendation.

Recommended Hosting Platforms

RSS.com

Beginner Indie

Web Free tier · paid plans from $15/mo

A feature-packed podcast host with a genuinely usable free plan, unlimited storage, automatic distribution, and a built-in monetisation marketplace connecting shows with advertisers. Good for budget-conscious creators who want solid fundamentals without paying for features they won't use.

Unlimited storage and episodes on all plans
Built-in ad marketplace for finding sponsors
Simple, fast episode publishing workflow
Free plan with unlimited episodes and storage, capped at 90 days of analytics

Visit RSS.com →

Buzzsprout

Beginner Indie

Web Free tier · paid plans from $15/mo

The most beginner-friendly podcast host available. Guided setup, clean analytics, automatic directory submission, and a genuinely helpful support team. The free tier is generous for getting started.

Step-by-step guided setup for new podcasters
Automatic submission to Spotify, Apple, and Amazon
Built-in dynamic ad insertion and Magic Mastering
Detailed analytics: listener location, platform, episode performance

Visit Buzzsprout →

Transistor

Indie Professional

Web From $19/mo · unlimited shows

The host of choice for independent creators and small businesses who want clean design and multiple shows under one subscription. No per-show pricing — ideal for agencies or multi-show creators.

Unlimited podcast shows on every plan
Beautiful, customisable podcast website included
Private podcast support for internal or premium audiences
Strong analytics and team member access

Visit Transistor →

Captivate

Indie Growth

Web From $17/mo

A growth-focused podcast host with strong monetisation tools built in — premium subscriptions, dynamic content insertion, and a podcast network feature for grouping shows. Excellent analytics with IAB certification.

IAB-certified analytics, advertiser-grade download metrics
Built-in premium memberships and listener support tools
Dynamic content insertion for ads and evergreen content
Unlimited shows on all plans

Visit Captivate →

Podbean

Beginner Monetise

Web · iOS · Android Free tier · paid plans from $12/mo

One of the oldest and most established podcast hosts. Strong mobile apps, a built-in listener community, and Patron programme let listeners support shows directly. Good entry point with an accessible free tier.

Free tier includes unlimited storage (bandwidth capped)
Built-in Patron programme for listener monetisation
Live podcast streaming functionality
iOS and Android apps for recording and publishing on the go

Visit Podbean →

Spotify for Podcasters

Free Beginner

Web · iOS · Android Free (Spotify's platform)

Formerly Anchor — now fully integrated into Spotify. Completely free hosting with unlimited storage and distribution. The analytics are Spotify-specific rather than cross-platform, and the RSS portability has historically been a concern for shows wanting to migrate.

Completely free, unlimited storage and distribution
Deep integration with Spotify's recommendation and monetisation
Video podcast support for Spotify's video feed
Note: RSS portability concerns. Check before committing long-term

Visit Spotify for Podcasters →

Simplecast

Professional Network

Web From $15/mo

A clean, professional podcast host with an excellent embeddable web player and strong team collaboration features. Used by major media brands and podcast networks. Recast sharing feature lets listeners share audio clips directly to social media.

Best-in-class embeddable podcast player
Recast: listeners share audio clips directly to social
Team roles and collaboration for larger podcast operations
IAB-certified analytics with episode and listener data

Visit Simplecast →

Knowledge Base

How to Use the Podcast Hosting Comparison

The Podcast Hosting Comparison tool breaks down leading podcast hosting platforms feature-by-feature: storage, analytics, distribution, pricing, and support. Use this to find the right platform for your show's stage and needs.

Hosting vs. Distribution

Hosting stores your audio files and generates your RSS feed. Distribution submits your RSS to platforms. Some services do both. Others specialize in one. You always need both.

Free Hosting Options

Anchor: Unlimited storage, Spotify distribution, minimal features.
Transistor: Limited free tier. Adequate for testing.
Buzzsprout: 2 hours/month free. Upgrade for unlimited.

Paid Hosting ($10-100/month)

Podbean, Transistor, Riverside, Captivate: Full-featured with analytics, storage, and distribution. Pick based on interface preference and specific features (e.g., Riverside if you want built-in recording).

Analytics That Matter

Download Numbers: Vanity metric. Many "downloads" are apps checking for updates, not actual listeners.
Listener Count by Platform: Real insight. Which platforms drive your audience?
Geographic Data: Where are your listeners? Useful for sponsorships.
Listening Time: Do people finish episodes? Average completion rate matters more than download count.

FAQ

Q: How many listeners do I need to monetize?
A: Usually 1,000+ listeners per episode minimum. Sponsorships typically pay $18-50 CPM.

Q: Should I host my podcast on YouTube too?
A: Yes. YouTube shorts, trailers, and full-episode videos drive discoverability. Many podcasters see 50%+ of audience on YouTube.

Prices on this page were last checked in August 2026. Software and hardware pricing moves, so treat these as a guide and confirm before you buy.