Podbean vs Libsyn vs Buzzsprout: Which Podcast Host is the Best In 2022?

If you are just stating podcasting and don’t know which host platform to choose, you are in the right place. See my comparison of Podbean, Libsyn, and Buzzsprout, three of the best podcast hosting platforms available today, here in this article.

If you have ever tried your hand at podcasting, you would know that it does not stop at recording your podcasts. The real work begins with taking the show to your audiences wherever they are.

Then again, you need to advertise, monetize and track changes on your podcast at the same time. Thankfully, podcast hosting services offer the perfect solution to cater to all your podcasting needs.

By using platforms like Buzzsprout, Podbean, or Libsyn, you can own a website, distribute episodes through different mediums, advertise, make money, and measure the growth of your podcast.

All three software mentioned above are some of the best podcast hosting platforms handy for streamlining podcasting. But how do you choose between the three?

Key Takeaway:

  • Buzzsprout is a great place to start if you are new to podcasting. It has a simple interface and features tools that do not require intense tutorials to operate.
  • Podbean raises the bar a bit higher because you need some expert-level skills to harness the full potential of the platform. One of the perks of using Podbean as a seasoned podcaster is that you can import your podcast.
  • Libsyn is similar to Podbean in a lot of ways. Its interface is complex compared to Buzzsprout and even Podbean, meaning you will work harder to maximize its ability. Reading Libsyn metrics, for instance, takes time to get used to reading.

Before making your pick, read my complete Podbean vs Libsyn vs Buzzsprout comparison to see how the podcast hosts compare on other grounds.

What Is Podbean?

Podbean is an all-in-one podcasting platform with powerful tools for recording, publishing, distributing, monetizing, and analyzing your podcasts. You can upload recorded podcasts or air live shows to engage listeners directly on Podbean.

Podbean has four different plans starting from the basic plan, which costs $0. Although limiting, the free version has a starter pack for new podcasts. It also has unlimited hosting in common with the three other paid Podbean plans.

You can use video podcasts on Podbean, unlike on other platforms. The podcast host works optimally on the web, but it also has a mobile app for iOS and Android, which allows you to access podcasting features on the go.

Overall, Podbean offers a convenient podcasting solution for all levels of podcasters, but you need to be at an expert level to get the most out of the platform.

How Does Podbean Work?

Podbean uses in-app tools and integrates with other service providers to give users a premium podcasting experience. Everything you need, from recording your podcast episodes to cashing out on them and tracking the podcast performance, is available on Podbean.

  • Recording: For recording, Podbean provides the recorder available on the android and iOS apps. You can easily record podcast episodes, edit, add background music, and save audio without leaving the Podbean app.
  • Publishing: After recording, you can immediately upload your podcast episodes by editing the title, description, and other info, then hit the publish button. You can also schedule your publishing to keep the show going even when not on your seat.
  • Distribution: Podcast distribution is vast with Podbean. It allows you to own a podcast site where people can download or stream your episodes. The website is presented in a way that any podcaster can create.

You can easily customize your website with the basic options available or involve CSS to access more tools.

Podbean also employs social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, and more to expand the reach of your podcasts.

Page showing Podbean social sharing apps list

Fans can listen to your podcasts via popular streaming apps, like apple podcasts, google podcasts, iHeartRadio, iTunes, Alexa, Amazon Music, and more.

Page showing podbean podcast directories
  • Monetization: To help you make money off your podcast, Podbean has different monetization features, like the Podbean advertising marketplace, patron program, affiliate marketing, and premium content.

You can use one or more monetization methods as long as you are on the right plan.

  • Podcast Analytics: Podbean provides comprehensive insights that show how your podcast has performed within a period and over time. You would have to hop on the business plan to get advanced statistics.

All you need to do to begin podcasting on Podbean is create a free account, customize your website, record or upload your podcast episodes, and publish. You can choose to upgrade at any time if you wish to access the advanced features,

Podbean Pricing

Podbean has four pricing plans offering unlimited hosting but with different features. See what each one offers below;

 

Free plan

Unlimited audio plan

Unlimited plus plan

Business plan

Cost/mo

$0

$14

$39

$129

Storage space

5 hours

Unlimited

Unlimited

unlimited

Bandwidth

100GB

Unmetered

Unmetered

Unmetered

Video podcast

No

No

Yes

Yes

Css editor

No

No

Yes

Yes

Mobile app

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Website

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Stats

Basic

Advanced

Advanced

Advanced

Monetization features

None

Ads marketplace, premium sales and Saas for podcast adverts

Ads marketplace, premium sales, patron program, and Saas for adverts

Ads marketplace, premium sales, patron program, and Saas for adverts

Multiple podcasts

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

In addition to the features above, the business plan has multiple admins, SSO authentication, live chat support, the Podbean pro app, Podbean branding removal, and podcast grouping.

What Is Libsyn?

Veteran Podcast host, Libsyn has been contributing to the industry since 2004. That would make you think they may be outdated and unsuitable in this modern age. However, that is not the case. Libsyn offers a modern interface just like other top podcasting platforms.

Libsyn supports audio and video podcasting and provides the tools to help streamline the process. It is equipped with powerful hosting, distribution, and monetization features that make podcasting easier and more enjoyable.

Libsyn does not have a free version or give a free trial like other podcast hosts. Instead, it offers all its plans at reasonable pricing, worth every penny.

You may find Libsyn a bit complex to operate, especially if you are a new podcaster. However, the learning process is usually worth the time, and operating the platform becomes easier as you get used to it.

Libsyn does not leave you to figure it out all by yourself, it provides enough resources to help you get through the tutorial stage.

How Does Libsyn Work?

Libsyn’s pro appearance comes with the collaboration of several apps, features, and processes. As such, you may find the platform intimidating at first contact. However, everything on Libsyn works together to enable you to run your podcasts efficiently.

If you choose Libsyn as your podcast host, be prepared to go through several setups to get your podcast up to standard. You can also go through the easy way and leave everything at the basics. Either way works, only that the latter will not be using the tools to their full potential.

  • Publishing episodes: Since there is no recording tool, you will have to upload a prerecorded file on the platform. If the editor you used to record the episode attaches a metadata tag to your audio files, Libsyn can include it per your command.

Libsyn allows you to add tags for SEO purposes and also select a different title for Apple Podcasts. You can also use the snippet feature to add recurring texts to your episode description.

After editing your episode details, you can publish or save it as a draft. The latest Libsyn 5 version also allows you to schedule a date to publish your episode.

  • Distribution: Libsyn distributes your podcast to over 1000 platforms with just one click. They include popular third-party apps, social media platforms, and website destinations.

Some popular apps like Apple podcasts, Stitchers, and Overcast are not listed under the feed-based third parties. In such a case, copy the podcast RSS feed and paste it manually into the directory to get it listed among your distribution apps.

  • Monetization: Libsyn introduces three monetization features to help you make money off your podcast. You can join the affiliate marketing, Libsyn Advertise Cast Marketplace, or turn to Libsyn Glow.
  • Podcast Statistics: Libsyn provides IAB-verified podcast stats that help you understand your growth. The analytics could range from basic to advanced, depending on the plan chosen.

Only publish your first podcast episode on Libsyn after setting up your website and podcast directories so that they can reach your audiences. After your setup, publishing new episodes, distribution, and monetization is quite easy on Libsyn.

Libsyn Pricing

Libsyn is not a free podcast hosting service, meaning no free plan is available. The platform does not offer a free trial as most other hosts do. In other words, you have to pay up before seeing your dashboard.

That said, let’s take a look at Libsyn audio and video podcast plans and what they offer;

Plan /mo

Hours /mo

Type

Features

$5

3

Audio

  • 162 MB storage
  • Very basic stats
  • Basic social promotion

$15

6

Audio

  • 324 MB storage per month
  • Basic stats
  • Basic social promotion

$20

10

Audio

  • 540 MB storage per month
  • Advanced stats
  • Social promotion scheduler

$40

14

Video

All features in $20 plan

$75

27

Video

All features in $20 plan

$150

55

Video

All features in $20 plan

All the plans have;

  • Unlimited bandwidth
  • Ads free podcast website
  • Custom podcast player
  • Access to all podcast directories
  • All monetization features

The difference between Libsyn plans is the duration of episodes and available storage space per month. The higher plans have a few additional features which you may not require to run your podcast.

What Is Buzzsprout?

Buzzsprout is a free podcast hosting service with all the essential tools you need for easy publishing, distribution, promotion, and monetization. Its simplicity and reasonable pricing easily make it the people’s choice.

As a new podcaster, you don’t need to subscribe before airing your shows on Buzzsprout. That is because the podcast host offers a free version equipped with all the basic features you need to start your show.

Most of the other hosting platforms available only offer trendy features without really putting some thought into what users really need. However, the case is different with Buzzsprout.

The platform offers unique brilliant tools like chapter markers, transcription, Dynamic Content, Magic Mastering, and visual soundbites. They are handy features that you may not find listed on other platforms.

How Does Buzzsprout Work?

Buzzsprout takes away the complexity of podcasting and replaces it with straightforward tools and processes that any level of podcaster can grasp easily.

  • Publishing: Buzzsprout makes publishing your new podcast episodes easy, from uploading to airing. It provides tools like chapter markers to edit your audio and make your content more consumable by listeners.

Buzzsprout also allows you to enhance your recordings for crisp and clear output. You will also love the dynamic content feature that helps you to add jingles, ads, and other recurring info into your episodes before publishing.

  • Distribution: Buzzsprout allows you to link to popular podcast directories, like Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Apple podcasts and share your episodes where listeners are. Although the process is easy, Buzzsprout guides you through the steps to add podcast listening apps successfully.

Buzzsprout also allows you to copy your RSS feed from your podcast website to embed on other sites and social platforms.

Page showing some of the Buzzsprout directories available on the platform
  • Monetization: You can make money on Buzzsprout in four ways: Join the affiliate marketplace, find sponsors, sell premium programs, or run ads on your podcast.
  • Podcast Analytics: Buzzsprout offers advanced statistics that help you measure your podcast’s performance. You can easily measure growth over time or within a specific period.

Buzzsprout Pricing

Buzzsprout offers four different pricing plans starting from $0. The free plan has almost all the tools you need but does not offer unlimited hosting. Your episodes get deleted three months after they are uploaded unless you upgrade.

See what all Buzzsprout plans offer below;

Plan /mo

Hours /mo

Features

$0

2

  • 90 days hosting
  • Cannot run ads on podcast
  • Magic mastering unavailable

$12

3

  • Unlimited hosting
  • Magic mastering at $6/mo

$18

6

  • Unlimited hosting
  • Magic mastering at $9/mo

$24

12

  • Unlimited hosting
  • Magic mastering at $12/mo

All Buzzsprout plans have access to unlimited team members, podcast directories, multiple podcasts, podcast websites, custom podcast player, and advanced stats.

All paid plans have access to import existing podcasts for free and unlimited storage space.

Podcast Hosting Platforms Comparison: Podbean Vs Libsyn Vs Buzzsprout

Now that we have examined each podcast hosting platform, let us see how they compare; We will see their features, user interface, integrations, and pricing tiers.

Features

Podbean, Libsyn, and Buzzsprout have many features in common, like podcast websites, Analytics, Podcast directories, and monetization. Let’s see how all three podcast hosting platforms perform in each category;

Podcast Website Creation

Creating your own website on Podbean can either be basic or advanced. If you can make do with the simple customization edits that only require changing colors, images, and font style, there should be no problem creating your site.

Page showing podbean podcast website in editing mode

However, you must be tech-savvy to use the advanced options in the CSS editor to beautify your podcast site further.

Libsyn allows you to create a website in three ways. You can use Podcastpage.io to set up your website in a few minutes and get a simple site. Creating mini-sites in-app is another way to have a podcast website on Libsyn.

Last but not least is creating a Libsyn website through WordPress. That requires you to have some coding experience before actualizing.

Buzzsprout sticks to a basic website for all its users. You don’t have to be tech-savvy before creating a website on Buzzsprout. The free podcast host runs with a simple website, which is easy to create for podcasters and much easier to navigate for audiences.

Page showing Buzzsprout podcast website sample- Talking books with Bhujal

Podcast Analytics

Podbean presents comprehensive statistics to show how your podcast has performed within different periods of time. Some categories that will be represented are your downloads, audience locations, top 10 episodes, and more.

To get advanced analytics and IAB-certified statistics on Podbean, you need to subscribe to one of the paid plans. If not, you will only see your basic insights.

Page showing a trend in a podcast advanced analytics result

Libsyn provides basic statistics on plans lower than $20. You will only get comprehensive basic stats regarding your downloads, audience location, and episode performance.

The $20 and video podcast plans will fetch you in-depth audience analytics and other advanced tracking stats. They are IAB v2.0 certified statistics with more info and deeper insights into your podcast’s performance. However, they may be tough to read.

Unlike the other two podcast hosts, Buzzsprout provides advanced statistics on all its plans, including the free version. The presentation comes in a comprehensive way that allows you to read the metrics and interpret them without racking your brain.

Podcast Distribution

Podbean allows you to share your podcast to popular directories like Apple Podcasts, Alexa, Youtube, iHeartRadio, Google Podcasts, and more. Your podcasts also automatically show on the Podbean iOS and Android apps.

You can link your social media accounts, like Instagram, Tumblr, and LinkedIn to Podbean, and your podcasts get shared on those platforms when you release a new episode.

Your Podbean website is also a means to get your podcasts to listeners. They can visit your site any time to check for new episodes, stream, or download them.

Libsyn is designed with 100% compliant RSS feeds optimized to connect to different podcast directories where your audiences can be reached. You can share your episodes with Apple podcasts, iRadio, Spotify, Deezer, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Gaana, and more.

With its OnePublish feature, Libsyn also allows you to share your podcast on social media upon new releases. You can also schedule the episodes to get posted on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and more.

Page showing Libsyn OnePublish platforms where you podcasts get shared

Buzzsprout allows distribution to platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and other major podcast directories. You can also social share your podcast on Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, Facebook, and LinkedIn to further expand your audience base.

Your Buzzsprout website also does its part by creating a base for all your published episodes. Any guest who visits your site can easily search for podcast episodes and download or listen to them right there.

Monetization

Podbean has three official ways of monetizing your podcast; the Podbean advertising marketplace earns you a passive income by inserting ads into your podcast. The patron program allows you to seek sponsors and receive donations for your show.

Lastly, the Premium content program allows you to sell premium content to interested listeners. Other ways to make money from Podbean include joining the Podbean affiliate marketplace to earn through the program or selling tickets to live shows.

Note that none of the advertising and monetization options above is available on the Podbean free plan. You have to upgrade to a paid plan to access them. Only the highest pricing plan offers all monetization options available.

Similarly, Libsyn allows you to make money off its affiliate marketing program. You just refer new paid users and get 100% commission on the sign-ups.

But the main ways to monetize your podcast on Libsyn are through the Libsyn cast advertisement marketplace, which is basically making money through ads, and Libsyn Glow which allows you to sell premium content to listeners.

Buzzsprout also presents multiple ways of monetizing your podcasts. You can run Buzzsprout ads on your episodes and earn $1.4 per monetized download. You don’t really have to do anything. Once you agree to run an ad, Buzzsprout places strategically in your episode.

Another way to make money on Buzzsprout is by creating private content and selling premium podcasts to your listeners. You can also earn passive income by joining the Buzzsprout affiliate marketing program.

Lastly, you can receive donations from show sponsors to make some more money.

Usability

To rate Podbean, Libsyn, and Buzzsprout according to their level of difficulty;

  • Operating Libsyn would take the longest to get used to because of its flow and complex arrangement. However, the long process pays off when you have your pro-looking podcast ready.
  • Next is Podbean. Ideally, the Podbean interface and operations work for all levels of podcasters. However, using the platform to its full potential takes several processes and higher skills.

So, you can simply stick to the basics or upgrade to access the advanced features. Fortunately, Podbean provides enough tutorial videos and resources to see you through the procedures.

  • The simplest of them all is Buzzsprout. I didn’t need many tutorials when I signed up on the platform, unlike the others. You will enjoy starting your podcast on Buzzsprout, especially as a beginner.

Third-Party Integrations

Podbean allows you to add third-party tools apart from the directories to improve your podcasting experience. You can integrate other popular apps, like mail chimp, SEO meta tags, Wavelab apps, Google Analytics, Resonate recording, PodcastOne, and more.

Apart from the 20 podcast directories on Libsyn, you can also integrate to WordPress Libsyn Publishers Hub. That allows you to publish your podcast directly from WordPress.

You may also have to pay extra cents to use the third-party apps, but it is usually worth the money.

You can access most of your work apps from within Buzzsprout because the platform allows their integration. Some popular apps available for integration on Buzzsprout are Google Analytics, Temi Transcription, Alitu, and more.

You can also embed your player into sites with the free WordPress Podcast Plugin that Buzzsprout provides.

Pricing

Buzzsprout and Podbean have free plans, but you would need to upgrade over time to enjoy podcasting better.

Buzzsprout, for instance, deletes your episode after 90 days if you are on a free plan. You also cannot use the advertising and monetization options unless you upgrade to one of the paid plans.

Since the major difference in Buzzsprout pricing plans is the storage space and podcast hours per month, it is easy to choose the one that provides the time needed to run your show monthly.

Page showing buzzsprout pricing plans

All the plans include the same features but different podcast hours, which make decision-making easier and faster.

On Podbean, unless you upgrade to the $39 unlimited plus plan, you cannot enjoy all the features available on the platform. You have to deliberate whether the missing features on the less-priced plan can be skipped or not.

Page showing Podbean Pricing plans, including free plan

The highlight of the Podbean plans is the business plan. Choosing that category as a business is a big flex because you can take your podcasting to the highest level with all the included features.

Libsyn does not have a free plan, but its basic pricing plan costs only $5 monthly. However, there is always a huge difference in what you get on each pricing plan on Libsyn.

Page showing Libsyn Pricing tiers and features

Like on Podbean, subscribing to the lesser plans means you will be missing some major features in your podcasting toolbox.

My Personal Take on Podbean Vs Libsyn Vs Buzzsprout

My aim in comparing Podbean, Libsyn, and Buzzsprout is not to pick an overall winner. Instead, I have revealed what each platform is capable of in hopes to assist you in choosing the one that works best for your podcast.

Choose Podbean If;

  • You own a company that does podcasting as a major part of the business.
  • You can handle a bit of technicality or have someone on your team who can.
  • You are ready to pay more to better your podcasting experience.

Choose Libsyn If;

  • You are a pro podcaster who doesn’t mind going through the extended process.
  • You prefer a fuller stats report on your podcast.
  • You plan to monetize your shows.

Choose Buzzsprout If;

  • You are a beginner podcaster, probably with no existing podcast.
  • You love the simplicity and lesser setup procedures.
  • You would love to integrate your podcast into commonly used collaboration apps.

Overall, Podbean, Libsyn, and Buzzsprout are some of the best podcast hosting platforms today. Whichever one has all the tools needed to help streamline podcasting in different connected areas, from recording to monetization.

You just have to choose the one whose operation works best with your show to enjoy all the perks that a podcasting host has to offer.

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