Podcasting has become increasingly popular in recent years.
It allows users to record audio files based on topics they are passionate about and share them with others.
This differs from other social media channels, which usually involve uploading photos, memes, videos, and written content.
Most podcasts are just audio, or video recordings uploaded online or broadcast live.
When it comes to hosting a podcast, there are many options available.
This post will review two of the most popular choices: Buzzsprout and Podbean.
We will look at both platforms to give a fair Buzzsprout review and a Podbean review.
Starting A Podcast
Podcasting platforms allow users to record audio files or stream live broadcasts.
Generally, users must purchase hosting and storage space for their episodes.
Additionally, many platforms require expensive recording equipment.
However, Buzzsprout and Podbean are different in that they offer a variety of service tiers, as well as storage and hosting, without the need for expensive equipment.
The amount and quality of the work depend on the user.
Buzzsprout and Podbean are so similar that picking one over the other can be challenging.
No worries; this review of Buzzsprout and Podbean should help make the decision easier.
Related Reading: Best Podcast Host For Beginners – Learn About It Here
Buzzsprout
Unfortunately, Buzzsprout does not have an app you can install on a mobile device.
Nevertheless, it is possible to open Buzzsprout on a mobile browser, save it to the home screen, and access the app from anywhere.
This may be inconvenient, but it is the only available option.
Opening the app in a browser is beneficial for those who do not have much space on their device or SD card.
One of the most appealing aspects of Buzzsprout is that podcasts are included in the top podcast directories.
Here’s where your potential audience can listen to your podcast:
- Apple Podcasts
- Spotify
- Google Podcasts
- Stitcher
- iHeartRadio
- TuneIn
- Alexa
- Overcast
- PocketCasts
- Castro
- Castbox
- Podchaser
Buzzsprout Service Tiers
Buzzsprout offers four distinct levels of service, each with its unique set of features. This section will discuss them in detail.
Tier One
Buzzsprout offers a free tier that allows users to upload two hours of content per month and has it hosted for 90 days.
In-depth data is provided, and there is no restriction on the amount of personnel on the team.
The free version does come with ads, and Magic Mastering is omitted.
Magic Mastering is a feature that reduces noise and improves sound quality, allowing listeners to take in each episode with a more consistent and pristine sound.
This feature is not included in the free tier; users must pay extra.
Tier Two
Buzzsprout’s mid-tier plan is available for $12 a month.
This plan provides three hours of podcasting without ads, and the episodes are hosted indefinitely.
Additionally, users are given unlimited storage, access to advanced stats reports, and the ability to import episodes for free.
It is also essential to recognize that there are no restrictions on the number of people that can be part of a team.
Tier Three
Buzzsprout’s third tier of service is priced at $18 per month.
This tier includes all of the second tier’s features and an additional six hours of podcasting time without ads.
Tier Four
At Buzzsprout, the fourth tier of their service is priced at $24 per month.
This tier includes all the features of the third tier and 12 hours of podcasting time with no ads.
It is evident that the more one pays, the more benefits one receives, which can lead to greater exposure for their podcast.
This includes a podcasting website, personalized embedded players, placements in podcast directories, and 250 GB of monthly bandwidth storage.
Additionally, the paid tiers allow users to monetize their podcast episodes.
Extra Paid Features
Having your podcast episodes transcribed is affordable at $0.25 per minute.
This is a beneficial choice for many reasons.
People often turn to friends or search engines like Google for podcast recommendations.
By transcribing your podcast, you make it more visible when someone searches for a podcast in your niche.
Additionally, it makes your podcast accessible to those who are hearing impaired.
Starting a podcast with Buzzsprout is simple and can be done without cost.
Related Reading: Best Podcast Hosting Companies – Find Out Here
Podbean
Podbean is a platform that is accessible on all types of devices.
It offers an app for Android and iPhone users with four different service levels.
Podbean Tiers
Tier One
Podbean’s initial tier, BASIC, includes many useful features.
The BASIC package offers five hours of podcasting time that does not reset each month and 100 GB of monthly bandwidth at no cost.
In addition, users have access to embedded players, a podcasting site, RSS feeds, iTunes support, free themes, and a comprehensive stats report.
Moreover, all of Podbean’s tiers allow for sound customization.
Furthermore, users have access to the music archive to customize their backgrounds.
Tier Two
Podbean’s second-tier Unlimited Audio plan costs $14 a month.
Still, the price can be reduced to $9 if paid for annually.
This plan includes unlimited storage space, unmetered bandwidth, paywalled themes, advanced stats reports, custom designs, and a personally mapped domain.
Additionally, it allows for the ability to add ads for monetization and premium sales.
Tier Three
Podbean’s third tier costs $39 a month, but you can reduce that to $29 if you pay annually.
Tier Three is called Unlimited Plus.
You get everything on the first and second tier, plus other cool features like video and audio podcasting, full custom designs, ads for advertising, and a patron program.
Tier Four
Podbean’s fourth tier costs $129 a month, but you can reduce that to $99 if you pay annually.
Tier Four is called BUSINESS.
You get all the features in the first, second, and third tiers, and much more.
With Podbean’s fourth tier, you get multiple podcasting channels with separate admins.
You also get private podcasting with SSO authentication and a comprehensive stats report.
Your podcast is its entity with the fourth tier because you can eliminate Podbean’s branding.
You also get live chat support, and you get to purchase white-label apps.
Buzzsprout vs. Podbean
Deciding between Buzzsprout and Podbean can be difficult, as both platforms offer similar features and unique ones.
Both have various resources that podcasters of all levels of experience can use.
It is easy to start and maintain a podcast on either platform.
The tiers of service on Buzzsprout and Podbean are worth the money and can fit into a personal budget.
Many podcasts begin with the simplest plans, which are available on both of these platforms.
To make an informed decision, it is essential to note that Buzzsprout offers more functionality than Podbean.
However, Buzzsprout limits their hosting to 90 days and has a two-hour limit on their free plan.
Despite this, taking advantage of what is offered for free is still possible.
The Platform For Better Podcasting
It isn’t easy to choose between Podbean and Buzzsprout, as they offer similar features and prices.
To make the best decision, it is recommended to try out their free services first and then pay for the tier that best suits your needs.
Podbean’s BUSINESS tier is especially noteworthy, as it provides a great selection of features at a reasonable cost.
This tier is designed to help companies expand their brand rather than share content.
Both Podbean and Buzzsprout can be beneficial to podcasters in a variety of ways.
However, Buzzsprout is the preferred choice for new podcasters because their hours are not limited, and they offer social media ad links at a lower price.
Additionally, their free plan is relatively unrestricted.
When selecting a podcasting tool, it is essential to consider various factors.
These include the amount of time available to express yourself, the ability to use the tool for interviewing, sound quality, the potential to reach a wide audience, and the cost of the tier with the desired features.
Podbean and Buzzsprout are excellent options that make podcasting as easy as possible.
However, Buzzsprout is the better choice for new podcasters due to its additional features and free plan.
Related Reading: The Good Qualities of An Entrepreneur – Learn About It Here
Final Thoughts
Podcasting is an effective way to share ideas and potentially make money.
If someone is starting, choosing a topic they are passionate about is essential.
It is possible to begin podcasting without cost, but payment may be necessary if more features are desired.
Here’s to hoping your new venture will succeed and the podcasting world will hear your voice!
