12 Best Apps to Record Podcasts (Remotely, on iPhone or Online)

Feeling hyped after listening back to back Joe Rogan’s episodes?

I understand your urge to start a podcast of your own, and it’s absolutely legit.

Podcasting is a convenient and cost-effective way to connect with people. Unlike YouTube, you don’t need to glue your eyes onto the screen.

Instead, you can walk, drive, or cook while your earphones keep broadcasting you the worldly conversation.

Researches also reveal that podcast listeners are more educated and have a better attention span than the average viewers of YouTube.

Sounds inspiring? Then what are you waiting for?

I see you have a choice to make, but not sure which one is ideal for you! We know it’s difficult to get along with just any app you see on the internet.

We also know that you don’t want to get bogged down in tinkering with your recordings. I promise no sound engineering or complicated editing stuff here.

That’s why we have come up with the best podcast recording apps that are easy to set up and can help you get started in no time.

1. Riverside.fm

Riverside.fm is one of the freshest podcasting platforms but is already catching up with the competition. The podcast between Gary Vee and Mark Zuckerberg on YouTube gives you a glimpse of its quality.

Not just entrepreneurs, the platform is also said to be used by giants like Spotify, Marvel, and Apple.

Its audio-video recording feels as good as that heavy desktop software. But you’ll also have the benefit of unlimited transcription.

Thanks to Riverside’s AI, you can create well-articulated transcripts for your episodes without getting into the editing part.

Overall, you may feel like this is just another decent podcast recording app. But features like unlimited transcriptions, live call-ins, live-streaming, and screen sharing give Riverside a unique recognition.

Compatibility: Chrome and Edge seem to be the only ideal browser. They’re also working on a mobile app (currently in beta phase).

What are some of the key features of Riverside?

• AI-Speaking View is a feature for video mode. AI automatically detects and switches the person actively speaking and keeps him/her in focus.
• Live editing option where you can add podcast intros, outros, theme music, and ads for your sponsors.
• Live Stream your podcast to YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, LinkedIn, and custom RTMP.
• It can host up to 7 guests and lets everyone share their screen.
• Live audience call-in feature where your audience receives a link asking them to enter their name and question or comment.

Riverside pros and cons

Pros:

• Intuitive and interactive features
• Producer mode lets your team take control of the live session
• Comes with a free plan and affordable pricing
• Social media live-streaming
• Frequent feature updates and improvements

Cons:

• Mobile apps still in beta version
• Can’t switch roles during the session (ex. from producer to guest)
• Limited recording hours

Pricing (yearly):

The free plan offers 2 hours of recording, the Standard plan has 5 hours of recording and the Pro plan comes with 15 hours of recording per month.

Currently, they don’t offer any additional hours once your regular hours get exhausted.

2. Alitu

Alitu is a unique kind of platform where you won’t be restricted to hourly recordings. Feel free to record as many episodes as you like!

But does a lot of episodes also mean spending countless hours in the editing and production process?

Well, not in this case. Alitu comes with automated features that can save your valuable hours and make the production enjoyable.

You can also access its free course, where you can learn every aspect of producing, publishing and promoting your work and get the most out of the platform.

Now, Alitu comes with only one plan. No option for a free or cheaper plan. Maybe the makers wanted each podcaster to experience the platform’s full potential.

Compatibility: Works on most browsers, no mobile app.

What are some of the key features of Alitu?

• Automates most parts of the production process like leveling, noise reduction, hum reduction, transitions, intros and outros.
• Can add ID3 tags to label your recordings and make sure your media is displayed correctly wherever they’re published. This includes title, artist, album, date, recorded, etc.
• Library of free music with 200+ unique tracks.
• Easy to edit out silence or mistakes with an easy drag-and-drop editor.
• Integrates with many podcast hosting providers like Captivate, Libsyn, Buzzsprout and more.

Alitu Pros and cons

Pros:

• Integrates with popular podcast hosting providers
• Automated editing functionalities
• Works fine on most the browsers
• No restrictions on the number of recording hours

Cons:

• A bit pricier and lacks plan options
• Download unavailable in video format
• Lacks mobile app

Pricing:

Alitu costs you $32 on a monthly basis. Whereas paying yearly comes at $320, meaning 2 months free.

3. Podbean

Podbean is probably one of the oldest and the most demanding podcasting tools for audiophiles. It’s an all-in-one solution for all of your publishing, distribution and monetization needs.

No matter whichever plan you’re subscribed to, you’ll enjoy its unlimited hosting service without worrying about storage.

Podbean also offers you the flexibility to use it on any device. You can either create a personal free website or make use of its multipurpose mobile app.

Not satisfied with just one channel?

Podbean has always been a recording-hungry platform for podcasters who want to take it to the next level. Yes, you can have additional channels that can be administered from the same account.

However, it doesn’t come cheap. But the features that fall within your budget are full of wonders. Let’s check them out.

Compatibility: Almost any browser, iOS, and Android platforms.

What are some of the key features of Podbean?

• Supports live-streaming on both mobile app and website. You can also receive virtual gifts from the audience that can give you special host privileges based on the PodPoints you earn.
• Ads Marketplace offers you ways to connect with advertisers and monetize your content. You can even enable patron programs or sell premium podcasts or PDF content to your listeners.
• Seamless distribution and promotion. Podbean integrates with Mailchimp to automatically share podcast episodes to your subscribers.
• Comes with a powerful analytics feature to help you track the effectiveness of your content, such as a number of clicks and downloads, top performers, geographical stats, devices used, and dedicated listeners.
• Provides free website hosting in the form of Podbean subdomain. Also comes with basic customization features to change the appearance of your channel.

Podbean pros and cons

Pros:

• Affordable pricing plans
• Flexibility to use on any device
• Attractive monetization features
• Unlimited hosting and storage

Cons:

• Video podcasts higher tier
• Doesn’t offer backups and uptime guarantee
• Fewer customization options

Pricing:

Podbean also takes 15% of the revenue earned from your premium content purchases. This is a general share for handling all the technical, billing, and customer support needs.

4. Spreaker

Ever thought about a platform that can help you find sponsors and ads for your podcast?

Spreaker is one of a kind that comes with a full-stack solution for podcasters of all levels. You can record, live broadcast, host, edit and distribute your episode on any device.

And when it comes to monetizing your podcast, Spreaker has something amazing for you.

The platform comes with a programmatic marketplace. You can choose from a number of advertisers to be placed on your podcast and launch targeted ads.

Not only does the platform bring you great advertising potential, but it helps you grow your channel.

Compatibility: Available on both Android and iOS platforms.

What are some of the key features of Spreaker?

• Self-advertise your channel using AdHub. You can create your promo, specify a targeted audience, and advertise your audio ad on other podcasts. The ad service starts at $100 per week.
• Ability to share episodes directly to Facebook, Twitter and other social media platforms. You can also integrate with Headliner to create audiograms and eye-catching waveforms to gather clicks.
• Once you surpass 10k monthly downloads, you become eligible for Spreaker Prime. Means free hosting, advanced analytics and automated ad insertion. Your episodes get updated with the latest ads each time your audience plays them.
• Spreaker partners with Nielsen Analytics to help you with a deeper understanding of your audience base and provide advanced stats.

Spreaker pros and cons

Pros:

• Full-stack solution for audio publishing
• Available on both Android and iOS platforms
• Easy distribution and promotion
• Advanced audience analytics

Cons:

• Spreaker does not support video
• Limited storage hours on the budget plans
• Extra charges for audio transcription ($0.10/minute)

Pricing (monthly):

Free Speech: $0

On-air Talent: $8/ month

Broadcaster: $20/ month

Anchorman: $50/ month

Publisher: $120/ month

5. Podcastle

If you already have come up with your choice of podcasting platform by now, hold on!

Podcastle has something special to offer. No doubt, the audio/ video quality is on par with the studio recording.

But I really like the range of AI-enabled features available at a budget pricing.

No matter if you’re going to record your podcast for the first time. Podcastle makes it super easy to set up, record, edit and publish your work.

Now, if you’re more of a listener than a reader, here’s a thing for you.

You can use its text-to-audio converter as an extension on your browser. Podcastle’s AI voice closely resembles the human voice and can read out any page or article of your liking.

Isn’t that amazing?

Compatibility: It can run smoothly on any browser. As an app, available only on the iOS platform.

What are some of the key features of Podcastle?

• Text-to-speech uses deep learning technology to create an automated voice that sounds much like a human. In fact, you can choose from a number of human voices of your interest.
• Magic Dust uses adaptive AI that can help you get rid of background hums and noises with a single click.
• Podcastle’s AI detects every word and creates the most accurate transcription for audio and video files.
• Features a library of high-quality sound effects based on practical events, ambiance, human sounds, and much more.

Podcastle pros and cons

Pros:

• Affordable pricing plans
• Unlimited audio recording
• AI-powered echo and noise cancelation
• Download video in 4k quality
• text-to-voice converter

Cons:

• Mobile version available only on iOS devices
• Limited hours of video recording
• Limited hours for automatic transcriptions of audio files

Pricing (yearly):

The Podcastle app on the iOS platform has no subscription model and is free to use.

6. Tyca.st

Are you sick of those recording tools that offer limited hosting and editing options?

I assure you can’t go wrong with Cast. It’s not always easy for a web-based podcasting tool to deliver a lightweight recording experience. Especially when you’re on a low network.

Cast, however, makes the recording process a breeze.

So if you’re a hobbyist or just starting out in the podcasting world, don’t hesitate to try Cast!

You’re going to get so much for less. Moreover, Cast also offers you a one-month free trial where you can use all the features of “Hobby” plan.

Enough time to get familiar with the platform. However, some of you might have issues with its limited monthly recording time. Especially when you’re a hardcore audio publisher.

Compatibility: Chrome browser. No mobile app yet.

What are some of the key features of Cast?

• Cast recording uses short buffers, which constantly add to the local backup before moving the content to the cloud. A risk-free way to keep your recordings safe.
• “Raise your hand” feature to signal your participants and take your turn without any interruption.
• Cast uses a live noise reduction tool that can clean the audio and filter out the ambiance.
• Hybrid punch-in is a unique feature where you can record your intro, outro, and interstitial ad without having you leave the editor.
• While recording, Cast automatically syncs the content to Dropbox. Though, the feature is only available to Pro users.

Cast pros and cons

Pros:

• Cast’s solid backup system
• No guests need a casting account
• Affordable pricing for beginners
• Free Hobby plan trial for one month

Cons:

• Mobile version isn’t available
• Monthly recording time is low in the Hobby plan
• Doesn’t perform well on most of the browsers

Pricing (monthly):

You can also get started with its trial version for 1 month, which offers all the features of Hobby plan.

7. Iris.fm

So you’d like to onboard 9 guests for your session; meanwhile, your existing tool allows only 4-5 guests at a time?

Iris.fm has got you covered.

Iris.fm is one of the recently launched podcasting tools that may not have a wide range of users but is nothing short of wonders.

It is a cloud-based platform that can run seamlessly on almost any browser. You can set up your podcast in minutes and invite your guests by just sending a link. Or, you may schedule your session for a later date.

Iris.fm offers some interesting team member features like built-in chat and separate audio tracks. You can even switch your app into dark mode if the light theme bothers you.

But what really bothers me is its limited monthly recording hours – 2 hours for the starter plan and 5 hours for the intermediate plan.

Once they get exhausted, you’ve to pay an additional hourly upfront fee, which is annoying. Seriously annoying.

Compatibility: Works with most browsers on any device. No mobile app yet.

What are some of the key features of Iris.fm?

• Locally records high-quality, lossless audio and video resolution up to 4k. However, video conference streaming supports 720p resolution.
• Custom recording room, which is like a waiting room for invitees. You can even lock the room to make sure no one enters without the host’s permission.
• Live-streaming your podcast on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.
• You can record with up to 9 guests at a time and invite unlimited team members.
• Automatically uploads your content to Google Drive and Dropbox.

Iris.fm pros and cons

Pros:

• Ability to invite up to 9 guests
• Can add unlimited team members
• Live stream directly on social media or YouTube
• High-quality audio and video recordings
• Built-in chat, useful for multiple guests

Cons:

• Lacks a free plan or trial version
• Limited recording hours per month, plus additional charge on extra hours
• Not available as a mobile app

Pricing:

Iris doesn’t have specific names for the plans, but they are priced as:

• $9/ month: Offers 2 hours of recording ($5/hour when exhausted)
• $19/ month: Offers 5 hours of recording ($4/hour when exhausted)
• $29/ month: Offers 10 hours of recording ($3/hour when exhausted)

You can also save 10% on its yearly subscription.

8. Soundtrap

Soundtrap is one of the earliest podcasting workstations that simplified the process of audio recording and publishing.

So what makes Soundtrap special?

If you’re not living under the rocks, you may be aware of Soundtrap’s acquisition by Spotify. As a result, you can take full advantage of the platform’s built-in capabilities that are no less than a professional studio.

Now, are you often on-the-move or looking for a hassle-free set-up for recording podcasts?

You guessed it! Its cross-platform capability helps you record, edit and collaborate on any device.

Overall, Soundtrap is a great choice for anyone who wants to record interview podcasts, solo content, lessons for online classes, or music albums.

Compatibility: Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Safari, Android, and iOS

What are some of the key features of Soundtrap?

• You can upload your content directly to Spotify under “Storytellers” and “Complete” subscriptions.
• Antares, a Soundtrap’s automated tuning feature, modifies your raw voice into a studio-like recording.
• Comes with thousands of high-quality presets, including instruments, sound loops, and ambiance.
• You can also create your own beats with Patterns Beatmaker by using the catalog of free loops and connecting with any musical instrument.

Soundtrap pros and cons

Pros:

• Frequently adds new beats to the library
• A lot of options for instruments and sound effects
• Ability to connect with musical instruments
• Free plan available
• Budget-friendly pricing

Cons:

• Lacks complex editing abilities
• Editing is possible only on desktop browsers
• Frequent glitches in the app

Pricing (yearly):

Soundtrap also offers an “Education” plan for educators and schools. The subscription starts at $349 per year for 50 seats.

You can use any of the plans for free for 30 days.

9. SquadCast.fm

Looking to tap into a large pool of audience?

In that case, you might need a platform where you can work with larger production teams. SquadCast.fm was formed with a mission to amplify collaboration.

But what sets SquadCast apart is its patented cloud hosting feature that lets you produce multiple shows simultaneously.

The higher you go on the plan, the more shows you can host.

Considering the platform’s ability, there is no doubt why SquadCast remains one of the top choices among tech giants like Google, Spotify, and Microsoft and high-profile influencers like Jordan Harbinger.

Now let’s see what key features, SquadCast.fm has to offer.

Compatibility: Commonly used browsers (except Safari). No mobile version yet.

What are some of the key features of SquadCast?

• Recording works with progressive uploads, meaning the audio gets recorded in the cloud in real-time and reduces the risk of data loss.
• Ability to collaborate with multiple teams and create multiple shows altogether.
• Backstage management, where you can assign roles and account types and set permissions for each of them.
• Green Room where you can micromanage your session, for example, audio/video testing, adjusting appearance, etc.

SquadCast pros and cons

Pros:

• A number of enterprise-grade features
• Ability to add main stage and backstage participants along with the members
• Uses audio technology from Dolby for cloud recording
• Creates separate audio and video recordings
• Performance-packed and reputation in the marketplace

Cons:

• No mobile apps yet
• Plans seem expensive for beginners
• Lacks free plan and no annual pricing on starting plan

Pricing (monthly):

The yearly pricing is only applicable on Pro and Studio plans – for $33.33/ month and $66.66/month, respectively.

Also, when you run out of your recording hour limits, you’ll be asked to add extra hours at $5 per hour.

10. Zencastr

Would you believe if a podcasting tool offered premium-like features at only $18 per month?

Well, with Zencastr, you can. Zencastr is one of the platforms that make sure you don’t freak out while setting up your first-ever podcast.

Not a feature-loaded platform. But with ease of control and affordable pricing, you’ll only be left with excuses.

The free plan is also pretty useful considering the basic features it offers. For example, unlimited recordings, the ability to host up to 4 guests and progressive recording by integrating with Google Drive and Dropbox.

But the real magic is in its paid plan. So let’s see what else Zencastr has to offer.

Compatibility: Works consistently on Chrome. No mobile version yet.

What are some of the key features of Zencastr?

• Audio/ Video mixing and post-production process up to 10 hours per month.
• You can add footnotes, enable hand-raising, and interact with your guests using built-in chat during live recording.
• Unlimited English transcriptions on the Professional plan.
• Live Editing Soundboard helps you add any presets like intro, outro, or ads, while you’re in recording mode.
• It offers the benefit of unlimited audio recording, especially in the free plan, which rarely features on any other platform.

Zencastr pros and cons

Pros:

• Affordable tool for beginners
• Supports local recording as well as cloud
• Features like hand-raising, chat, and footnotes improve engagement
• Unlimited audio recordings (unlimited video only on paid)
• Unlimited English transcriptions

Cons:

• No mobile app yet
• Not effective on all the browsers except Chrome
• Lacks advanced recording and preset features

Pricing:

Monthly pricing: $20

Yearly pricing: $18

11. Hubhopper

You may have come across some of the platforms offering a free plan. What about a completely free platform?

Initially, Hubhopper was intended to be a social networking service. Soon it was changed into a podcast recording and hosting platform.

Hubhopper doesn’t have some intuitive or advanced set of features. But offers all the tools to create, edit, and distribute your podcast on global audio platforms.

Not just online, you can experience Hubhopper on your mobile app as well. Currently, the app only features Android but gives you great flexibility.

Compatibility: Almost on every functional browser and Android device.

What are some of the key features of Hubhopper?

• Hubhopper Studio Editor is an advanced online editing tool that makes it easy to visualize and edit your audio segments and remove any gaps, hums or noise.
• Audiogram lets you create attractive short clips of your podcast, which can be used as snippets for promoting your video.
• Strong podcasting community where you can openly ask questions, discuss, share your thoughts and collaborate with other podcasters.
• Advanced analytics where you can measure your podcast’s performance like the number of listens, clicks, location, etc.
• A built-in design tool to create professional-looking cover art or themes for your podcast.

Hubhopper pros and cons

Pros:

• Free-to-use app
• Strong podcasting community
• Online recording and editing features are good
• Audiogram, rewards, and built-in cover design
• The mobile app isn’t the best, but a decent on-the-go solution

Cons:

• Doesn’t feature a sound library
• Frequent bug issues in mobile app
• The number of guests you can host is unknown

Pricing:

The app is absolutely free to use.

12. Anchor.fm

Anchor was initially launched as something like an audio version of TikTok. Yes, it was a social sharing platform, but not exactly a podcast.

However, when Anchor redesigned the platform to record podcasts, Spotify had acquired them soon. Because of that, Anchor has not only gained popularity but also become the best free podcasting app on both Android and iOS platforms.

Well, you may find a few other free apps like this but won’t be able to add licensed songs from Spotify!

There’s no limit on the files you can record and upload. After all, you’re getting unlimited free hosting.

However, Anchor as a web app isn’t quite an effective platform. You’ll experience better functionalities on a mobile app from recording to editing your episodes.

Compatibility: Available on both Android and iOS platforms.

What are some of the key features of Anchor?

• The mobile app supports up to 2 hours of continuous recording. It lacks a pause function, though. So you can use flags to mark instances and edit them later.
• Ability to add up to 5 guests. They can either use the app or website to join the podcast session.
• Unlimited storage for your feed and the ability to record as many episodes as you like. You can even re-edit your published episodes or add new segments.
• Insightful and accurate analytics from Spotify that can help you gather stats like the number of plays, the device used, the geography of usage, gender/ age breakdown, etc.

Anchor pros and cons

Pros:

• Absolutely free to use
• Collaborate with up to 5 guests
• Unlimited storage for your podcast feed
• Available on both Android and iOS platforms

Cons:

• The web version isn’t ideal for recording
• Editing abilities aren’t quite intuitive
• Spotify takes a huge cut

Pricing:

Though Anchor is a free platform, it takes a share of 30% of the revenue generated from ad integrations.

Final Verdict

Podcast apps have come a long way since the days they required hours of sound engineering. You can now focus more on the creative side of things and let your app do all the noise reduction and audio enhancements.

All the aforementioned apps are capable of fulfilling your hobbyist or digital marketing needs. But there is no single app I believe could magically bring you a lot of views or subscribers.

However, based on where you’re in your podcasting journey, you can choose any one of our top 5 podcast app selections.

For example, you can go with SquadCast when you have got a production team, or your goal is to broadcast multiple shows. Whereas, if you’re looking to connect with multiple advertisers, Podbean seems to be a go-to option.

Or if you’re simply beginning your podcast journey, Riverside and Alitu are the best choices.

So go ahead, look for things you want to achieve with podcasting, and always strive for ways to connect with your listeners.