Podbean vs Buzzsprout – Which Podcast Hosting is Better?

If you’re launching a podcast, one of the first big decisions you’ll face is choosing the right podcast hosting platform. The two names you’ll see most often are Podbean and Buzzsprout. Both are popular, both are powerful. But each has unique strengths and weaknesses.

Let us help break podcast hosting down for you. 

We’ve got details on pricing, features, pros, and cons. We’ll even share a great alternative if neither is quite right for you.

So, if you’re weighing up the Buzzsprout vs Podbean debate, read on!

Quick Comparison Table – Podbean vs Buzzsprout

Short on time? Here’s a quick comparison table putting Podbean vs Buzzsprout up against each other. We’ve also highlighted Saspod (yes, that’s us, and we’re proud to throw our hat in the ring for podcast hosting services based in the UK!)

Want to read your information directly from the source? Be sure to check out Podbean pricing, Buzzsprout pricing, and Saspod pricing on the relevant sites.

Podbean Review – Pricing, Features & Pros/Cons

Podbean has been around since 2006 and is a long-time favourite for podcasters who want affordable, unlimited hosting. Over 600,000 podcasters have launched podcasts with Podbean during the last 10 years.

Is Podbean Free?

Yes, Podbean does offer a free podcast hosting plan. However, Podbean’s free plan only gives you 5 hours of total storage. This works for hobbyists or testing the platform, but serious podcasters will need a paid plan.

Podbean Pricing & Plans

• Basic (Free) – 5 hours of storage, basic stats, no monetization options.
• Unlimited Audio (from $9/month) – Unlimited storage & bandwidth, monetization tools, advanced stats.
• Unlimited Plus (from $29/month) – Video podcast hosting, more branding features.
• Network (from $79/month) – Full analytics, multiple admins, private podcasting.
  
  

Podbean Hosting Features

Podbean has built a reputation as one of the best podcast hosting sites thanks to its mix of affordability and functionality. While the design may feel slightly older compared to newer competitors, the platform is still packed with useful tools for podcasters of all levels.

Here is a rundown of Podbean’s top features we think are worth mentioning:

• Podbean Dashboard: While it’s more functional than flashy, it gets the job done: you can upload episodes, schedule releases, manage multiple shows, and track performance. For beginners, the learning curve may be a little steeper than with platforms like Buzzsprout, but once you’re used to it, it’s powerful and reliable.
• Distribution: Podcast distribution made simple. With just a few clicks, your episodes can be automatically pushed to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and other major listening platforms. This saves you time and ensures your content is accessible to the widest possible audience.
• Monetization: This is Podbean’s strongest selling point! Podcasters can join the Ads Marketplace and earn from dynamically inserted ads. Or accept listener donations through the Podbean Patron Program. Podbean also offers a premium content behind a paywall option, giving you multiple income streams.
• Analytics: You’ll get a solid set of analytics tools that help you understand your audience. Podbean’s analytics can track the download numbers per episode, listener locations and demographics, and listening trends over time.
• Podbean Search: Podbean also hosts its own podcast directory. While it’s not as widely used as Spotify or Apple Podcasts, it gives you an additional discovery channel. This is a valuable part of a good podcast marketing strategy.

Pros and Cons of Podbean

Like any platform, Podbean has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a quick overview:

Pros:

• Unlimited hosting on affordable paid plans.
  
• Strong monetization tools, including ads, donations, and subscriptions.
  
• Live streaming feature, allowing you to broadcast in real time.
  
• A well-established platform trusted by thousands of podcasters.
  
  

Cons:

• Free plan is very limited (only 5 hours of total audio storage).
• The interface could be more modern compared to newer platforms.
• Advanced analytics require upgrading to higher-tier plans.

Buzzsprout Review – Pricing, Features & Pros/Cons

Buzzsprout is known for its beautifully simple interface and tools that make podcasting feel easy, even for complete beginners. The support is also fantastic, giving podcasters a helping hand when they need it most.

Is Buzzsprout Free?

Yes, Buzzsprout has a free option; however, the free plan is limited to 2 hours/month, episodes are removed after 90 days, and a Buzzsprout ad is added. Nothing in life is completely free!

Buzzsprout Pricing & Plans

• Free Plan – 2 hours/month, limited storage time, includes ads.
• Paid Plans – $19, $39, or $79/month for 4, 15, or 35 hours/month, respectively.
• Extra hours can be added for $2/hour to $4/hour depending on your monthly plan.

Buzzsprout Hosting Features

Buzzsprout is widely regarded as one of the most user-friendly podcast hosting platforms. Its clean design, intuitive workflows, and beginner-friendly tools make it a popular choice for podcasters who want to focus on content creation rather than tech setup.

Here is a rundown of Buzzsprout’s top features we think are worth mentioning:

• Buzzsprout Dashboard: One of the cleanest and easiest to navigate in the industry. From uploading an episode to checking analytics, everything is streamlined. The interface is especially welcoming for beginners who may find other hosting dashboards confusing.

• Distribution: Buzzsprout makes podcast distribution almost effortless. With built-in integrations, you can quickly submit your show to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and more. Buzzsprout guides you through the submission process step by step, which is a major plus for first-time podcasters.

• Buzzsprout Monetization: More monetization features have been added over the years, including: Buzzsprout ads, affiliate marketplace, and listener support. While not as extensive as Podbean’s monetization suite, it still provides multiple ways to earn from your podcast.

• Buzzsprout Podcast Website: Every Buzzsprout account comes with a simple, customisable podcast website. You can add your logo, episode descriptions, and links to major listening apps. While it’s not as powerful as having your own full site, it’s a handy way for listeners to browse episodes and subscribe. Again, another good podcast marketing asset to have in your toolkit.

• Analytics: Buzzsprout’s analytics are visually polished and easy to understand. You’ll get episode download stats, a breakdown of apps and devices your audience uses, geographic listener data, and trends over time so you can track growth.

Pros and Cons of Buzzsprout

Pros:

• Extremely beginner-friendly interface.
• Episode optimisation tool (automatically converts files to the ideal format).
• Solid monetization options, including ads and listener support.
• Free website included with every account.
• Excellent integrations with major podcast directories.
  
  

Cons:

• Storage is limited on all paid plans (hours per month).
• The free plan removes episodes after 90 days and includes Buzzsprout branding.
• Monetization options are good, but not as broad as Podbean’s.

Podbean vs Buzzsprout – Pros & Cons Summary

Alternatives to Podbean and Buzzsprout

If neither Podbean nor Buzzsprout feels right, you’ve got other options: 

• Spotify for Podcasters vs Podbean – Spotify’s integrated platform (formerly Anchor.fm) is completely free, but has fewer advanced tools.
• Buzzsprout vs Spotify for Podcasters – Buzzsprout has better analytics, Spotify offers free unlimited hosting.
• Buzzsprout vs Libsyn – Libsyn is a veteran platform with powerful features for serious podcasters.
• Saspod vs all – Saspod is a UK-based podcast hosting company, founded by Bogdan Bratis and combines podcast production and hosting in one place.

Why Saspod Could Be Your Best Alternative

If you’d prefer tailored podcast hosting and full hands-on support, Saspod is worth a look:

• UK-based team with real, human advice. No AI chatbots here. We’re here to help with our expert guidance every time.
  
  
• Hosting plus editing, branding, and growth support in one package.
  
  
• No “one-size-fits-all” pricing – plans adapt to your needs. Just get in touch!
  
  
• Ideal for both beginners and established creators.

Final Verdict – Podbean or Buzzsprout?

​​When it comes down to Podbean vs Buzzsprout, the “better” choice really depends on what you value most in a podcast hosting platform.

• Choose Podbean if you’re looking for unlimited audio hosting at an affordable price. It’s ideal for podcasters who publish frequently or create long-form content, as you won’t be restricted by storage caps. Podbean also shines in the monetization department, offering ads, premium subscriptions, and listener support right out of the box. The trade-off? A slightly less modern interface and some features locked behind higher-tier plans.
• Choose Buzzsprout if you want a clean, modern, and incredibly beginner-friendly experience. Its dashboard is one of the easiest to use, making it perfect if you’re new to podcasting or simply prefer a straightforward setup. Buzzsprout also includes handy extras like episode optimisation and a free podcast website. However, the storage caps on every plan can be restrictive for prolific creators, and costs may creep up if you need extra hours.
• Choose Saspod if neither platform feels quite right and you’d prefer a more personalised, expert-led approach to podcasting. Unlike big-name hosting providers, Saspod offers not just hosting but also hands-on support with production, editing, branding, and growth. It’s a great option for creators who want to save time, avoid the technical headaches, and focus on making great content while leaving the behind-the-scenes work to professionals.
  
  

The bottom line: Podbean and Buzzsprout are both excellent podcast hosting platforms, but they cater to different needs. Podbean is the value-packed workhorse, Buzzsprout is the sleek beginner-friendly choice, and Saspod is the partner that helps you go beyond hosting to build and grow a podcast that lasts.

FAQs

Is Podbean free?

Yes, but limited to 5 hours of storage.

How much does Buzzsprout cost?

From $19/month for 3 hours/month.

Is Buzzsprout good?

Yes – especially for beginners.

Is Podbean safe?

Yes, it’s a reputable and secure hosting provider.

Does Podbean post to Spotify?

Yes, it integrates with Spotify for automatic publishing.

Buzzsprout vs Spotify for Podcasters – which is better?

Buzzsprout has better analytics, Spotify offers free unlimited hosting.

Libsyn vs Podbean – which should I choose?

Libsyn is more advanced, Podbean is simpler for beginners.

What’s the best podcast hosting site?

It depends on your needs – but Podbean, Buzzsprout, and Saspod are all strong options.