Launching a podcast requires more than just a great idea and the right equipment.
You also need a place to manage your content, distribute it to other platforms (Spotify, Apple, iHeartRadio, etc.), and monetize the engagement.
Fortunately, you can accomplish all this and a lot more using an all-in-one solution: free podcast hosting services that connect you – the creator – to directories that help listeners discover new content.
There’s just one problem…with so many options, finding the right platform can be a bit overwhelming.
But don’t worry, because you’re about to learn how to sift through the noise and evaluate your options. In addition, you’re about to discover some of the best free podcast hosting sites to make an informed decision.
- Criteria for Selecting the Best Free Podcast Hosting Platforms
- Top 9 Best Free Podcast Hosting Platforms
- Conclusion: Which Podcast Hosting Site is Best for You?
Criteria for Selecting the Best Free Podcast Hosting Platforms
Choosing between podcast hosting solutions can be daunting for most people. After all, with all the podcast hosting site’s features out there, it can be difficult to tell what’s essential and what’s nice to have in a host.
That said, you need to consider these six factors when weighing your options:
A. Number of free hours offered
Podcast hosting sites limit how much content you can upload as a free user. This can be a monthly or total limit, ranging from 2 to 6 hours.
Once your storage limit expires, you have two options:
- Wait for the renewal of your monthly storage limit to upload fresh content.
- Make room for new episodes by deleting old content (in case of a total limit).
Ideally, you should focus on hosts that provide unlimited storage so you can create as much content as you want. If not, look for a service with a monthly limit to stay consistent with your uploads.
B. Storage space provided
Bandwidth has a direct impact on several aspects of your show, from the number of listeners who have access to your content to how many episodes you can release each month.
Of course, you can optimize your bandwidth needs by:
- Producing shorter episodes
- Reducing the size of your audio files
- Limiting the number of available downloads
Nevertheless, it’s better to look for services with unlimited storage. Or choose a plan with substantial bandwidth and an option to upgrade later.
C. Monetization options
Podcasting is a great way to share your stories and ideas with people. However, to scale your efforts and stay consistent, you need motivation.
Podcast monetization can incentivise your content creation. But since it’s relatively new, many services, especially free podcast hosting sites, facilitate it via limited options.
As a free user, you must look for services that offer varied monetization options: donations, subscriptions, and advertisements. If not, at least avoid those that stipulate ownership of your content.
D. Analytics and reporting tools
Podcast analytics is crucial for understanding your audience, but only if they’re IAB compliant. The IAB (Interactive Advertisement Bureau) provides industry standards for monitoring podcast performance. It’s also what advertisers use to make investment decisions.
So, when you are in the market for a free podcast hosting solution, limit your search to IAB-compliant platforms. That way, you’ll be able to steer your content in the right direction and monetize your show faster.
E. Ease of use
Usability should be at the top of your list when choosing a free podcast hosting solution. After all, if you’re too concerned about the interface, you won’t be able to focus on your content.
If you’re new to podcasting, look for a service that comes with guides, tutorials, and YouTube videos to help you get started. Also, look into its official community to learn more about its user experience.
F. Customer support
Any comparison of free podcast hosting platforms would be incomplete without taking customer support into account.
Here’s the thing, though: free services rarely offer technical support. Sure, they have a help centre and a blog for DIY assistance. However, few platforms allow you to chat with an expert.
That’s why, we suggest you look for a platform that you can manage on your own. If you still encounter issues, check out some dedicated forums for support.
Top 9 Best Free Podcast Hosting Platforms
A. Podomatic
Podomatic is a beginner-friendly host that lets you create and publish high-quality podcasts from any device. It requires zero equipment or set-up to get started. All you need to do is signup, record an episode (using Podomatic’s online recorder or your phone), and hit publish.
Podomatics’s Free Plan Includes:
- Up to 6 hours (or 20 episodes) of free uploads
- Up to 15GB of free downloads
- Daily analytics on podcast plays, downloads, devices, and directories that comply with IAB standards
- Podcast distribution to all major platforms (Spotify, Apple, iHeartRadio, Amazon, etc.)
- Monetization support in partnership with Podcorn and Patreon
Podomatic’s Pros and Cons:
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- Social media sharing via Twitter, Facebook, and other major platforms
- Seamless monetization via donations, advertisements, and merchandise
Cons
- Limited storage (500MB) for free episodes
- Alerts listeners if you exceed your bandwidth limit
- No support for remote guests and video podcast recording
- Limited editing features
Why choose Podomatic?
Overall, Podomatic is a great host if you’re an entry-level podcaster. It has everything you need, from an easy-to-use interface to varied monetization options, to help you get started. Of course, like most podcast hosting solutions, it offers limited free storage. However, its paid services are pretty accessible once you’re ready for them.
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B. Buzzsprout
With its ever-growing library of free resources, Buzzsprout is one of the most accessible podcast hosting platforms out there. However, it also has some exceptional features, like advanced analytics, that make it worth a shot.
Buzzsprout’s Free Plan Includes:
- Up to 2 hours of free uploads per month (note that your previous episodes are deleted after 90 days).
- Up to 250MB of free downloads
- Advanced stats on apps, devices, and downloads that are IAB compliant
- Podcast distribution to all major streaming platforms (Apple, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, TuneIn, etc.)
Pros and Cons of Buzzsprout:
Pros
- Easy-to-use interface
- Supports unlimited team members
- An active community of users
- A growing collection of free guides, tutorials, and courses
Cons
- Audio optimization features like Magic Mastering (a patented technology to deliver clear audio) are only available to pro users
- No monetization options in the free tier
- No support for video podcast recording
- Third-party ads on free users’ websites
Why Choose Buzzsprout?
Buzzsprout is great for you if you want to learn more about podcasting. Its free resources have everything you need to know about podcast production and editing. Another reason to choose Buzzsprout is its support for collaboration. If you plan on working with multiple team members, this is the right platform for you.
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C. Anchor
Anchor (owned by Spotify) is a free podcast hosting site that offers powerful features for beginners and professionals. It lets you create, distribute, and monetize your content and leverage formats such as video podcasts.
Anchor’s Free Plan Includes:
- Unlimited free uploads (although, the maximum file size is 250MB)
- Unlimited free downloads
- IAB-compliant analytics (updated every 24 hours)
- Podcast monetization via Ambassador Ads (for shows hosted or managed by Spotify) and subscriptions
- Podcast distribution on every major streaming platform
Pros and Cons of Anchor
Pros
- Free for all users
- Support for video podcasts
- Fan engagement tools like Q&A and polls
- Flexible monetization options with the ability to create bonus content for paid users
- Automatic podcast distribution to top directories (Apple, Google, iHeartRadio, etc.)
Cons
- Only one podcast per account
- Limited recording and in-app editing features
- Takes a 30% cut of your ad revenue.
- Anchor reserves the right to use your content
Why Choose Anchor?
Of all the options on this list, Anchor is perhaps one of the best free podcast hosting platforms. It has all the hallmarks of a premium service, plus exclusive tools to help you build a strong following. Overall, if you aren’t worried about the file size limit or the 30% cut off your revenue, Anchor might be the best option for you.
D. Soundcloud
Strictly speaking, SoundCloud isn’t a podcasting platform. It’s mainly a streaming service that also lets users record and share their podcasts. As a free service, SoundCloud has some appealing features. Its biggest draw, however, is that it lets more people discover your work.
SoundCloud’s Free Plan Includes:
- Up to 3 hours of free uploads per month
- Basic analytics that doesn’t comply with IAB standards
- Podcast monetization via donations
Pros and Cons of SoundCloud
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- Designed for community engagement. Users can comment, like and share your content.
- Supports monetization through fan donations (powered by PayPal, Cash App, Venmo, and more)
- Supports most file formats (although it recommends lossless formats)
Cons
- Lack of IAB-compliant analytics
- Existing episodes cannot be imported via an RSS feed
- No support for distribution to major platforms (such as Apple, Google, and Spotify)
Why Choose SoundCloud?
SoundCloud is right for you if either of these rings true: the majority of your listeners are already on the platform or you’re only concerned about growing your audience. Regardless, the free plan is a great way to way experience SoundCloud’s features and leverage its large audience.
E. Acast
Like Anchor, Acast is completely free to use. You can, however, upgrade to a paid plan if you need advanced support. In terms of built-in utilities, Acast is a holistic solution. In addition to hosting and distributing your content, it also lets you analyze, monetize, and promote it to different platforms.
Acast’s Free Plan Includes:
- Unlimited hosting and downloads
- Basic stats and insights that are IAB compliant
- Podcast monetization via listener support (including subscriptions and donations)
- Distribution to all apps and directories
Pros and Cons of Acast
Pros
- Unlimited uploads and downloads
- Seamless distribution to all streaming platforms (Apple, Amazon, Spotify, and YouTube)
- An embeddable player you can add to your site and social media
- Easy-to-use monetization features
- Transcription tool for making your content more accessible
Cons
- No support for lossless file formats
- Social media integration isn’t straightforward
- The maximum file size is 150MB
- Ads and sponsorships aren’t supported in the free tier
- Incompatible with video podcasts
Why Choose Acast?
In terms of functionality, Acast is probably the best option for free users. No matter where you are in your podcasting journey, it has everything you need to thrive as a creator. Acast’s greatest strength is its monetization and distribution options. The fact that its user-friendly interface is also a big plus.
F. Pinecast
Launched in 2015, Pinecast is a no-frills podcast hosting platform that lets you distribute your content, analyze its performance, and grow your audience. Keeping podcasting affordable has been Pinecast’s mission since day one. And if you look at its offerings, especially free features, it seems to have achieved that.
Pinecast’s Free Plan Includes:
- Unlimited uploads (although you can only view the last 10 episodes)
- The maximum file size is 48MB
- Two podcasts per account
- IAB-approved podcast analytics
- Podcast distribution to all major streaming platforms
Pros and Cons of Pinecast
Pros
- Easy-to-use interface
- Free forever with unlimited bandwidth and downloads
- Hosts up to two podcasts per account
- An embeddable player that you can add to any webpage
Cons
- No support for monetization (tips are only available to paid users)
- Lack of content creation tools
- No support for video podcasts
Why Choose Pinecast?
Pinecast is one of the more feasible podcast hosting platforms in the market. If you ever want to upgrade, its Starter Plan is just $10/month. But if that’s inaccessible, you can continue to use its free features. Or opt for a customized subscription that caters to your requirements.
G. Spreaker
Spreaker (owned by iHeartRadio) is an all-in-one podcast hosting solution that lets you create, distribute, and monetize your content. Like the platforms above, Spreaker offers a free plan with certain limitations. However, if you’re new to podcasting, this should be enough.
Spreaker’s Free Plan Includes:
- Unlimited free episodes
- Unlimited downloads
- IAB-certified analytics with real-time updates
- Automatic distribution to Apple, Spotify, and iHeartRadio
- Podcast monetization via ads
Pros and Cons of Spreaker
Pros
- Easy-to-use interface
- Comprehensive creation tools
- Recording and live broadcasting (available directly from the app)
- Supports lossless file formats
- Automatic monetization tool
Cons
- Advanced analytics are only available to paid users
- No support for collaborative work
- Occasional recording glitches
- No support for video podcasts
Why Choose Spreaker?
Spreaker is one of the few free podcast hosting sites that provides everything you need in one place. However, like other hosts, its free plan has some limitations. Regardless, if you’re just starting out, you’ll barely notice a difference. In fact, Spreaker’s free features will sustain your content efforts for a long time to come.
H. Podbean
Podbean is an enterprise-grade podcast hosting solution that also caters to free users. According to its website, it has helped over 600,000 creators launch a show. Like Spreaker, Podbean offers a comprehensive set of features – which cover publishing, distribution, analytics, and live streaming.
Podbean’s Free Plan Includes:
- Up to 5 hours of free uploads
- Up to 100GB bandwidth per month
- Advanced, IAB-certified analytics
- Podcast distribution to all major platforms (Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, etc)
Pros and Cons of Podbean
Pros
- Easy-to-use hosting service
- Embeddable, customizable players you can add to your blogs and website
- Your own podcast site
- Automatic sharing with social media (Facebook, YouTube, and more)
- Easy distribution to various streaming platforms
Cons
- No monetization options
- Only supports lossy file formats (with a maximum file size of 3GB)
- Video podcasting is only available to paid users
- No support for customizing premium plans
Why Choose Podbean?
As an experienced hosting service, Podbean knows what users want. But its free features take that understanding to the next level and try to deliver on user expectations. As a free user, you’ll find Podbean to be extremely accessible and highly functional. However, if you still want more, take a look at its premium services (which start at $9/month).
I. Simplecast
Unlike other hosts on this list, Simplecast doesn’t have a free plan. It does, however, bundle a 14-day trial with each of its premium offerings. If you’re just starting out, Simplecast may seem a bit overwhelming. However, once you get past that, you’ll discover a lot of useful features.
Simplecast’s Free Trial Includes:
- Unlimited storage and uploads
- 20,000 downloads per month (for the Basic Plan).
- Basic stats that are IAB compliant
- Distribution to all apps and directories
Pros and Cons of Simplecast
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Embeddable web player that adapts to your site
- Robust creation tools
- Customizable podcast site with a custom domain
- Multiple podcasts per account
Cons
- Monetization isn’t straightforward
- Users may find its pricing model unjustifiable
- Automatic conversion of lossless files to lossy formats
- Downloads are limited on all plans
- No support for video podcasts
No support for video podcasts
Why Choose Simplecast?
To be fair, Simplecast is a robust podcast hosting solution. But if you look closely, you’ll realize that despite its prices, it lacks some of the features offered by its competitors. Overall, Simplecast is worth a try if you’re not on a budget. But if money is a serious concern, you might want to look elsewhere.
Conclusion: Which Podcast Hosting Site is Best for You?
When it comes to the best free podcast hosting platform, several options stand out.
For ease of use and unlimited storage, Anchor or Spreaker might be the right option. For those seeking comprehensive features, Podbean or Podomatic could be excellent options. SoundCloud is great if you want social sharing features. Although for monetization support, focus on Acast or Spreaker. And if you’re keen on analytics, look into Buzzsprout or Simplecast. Ultimately, each of these free podcast hosting platforms offers its own unique set of features. To choose between them, you must take your specific goals and needs into account.
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Edited by Shubhankar Das