Stream and Create: 7 Best Podcast Apps in 2024

In today's modern world, podcasts have become increasingly popular among content creators and consumers alike. Whether you're listening to your favorite podcast during your daily commute or creating your own podcast show, finding the right podcast app can make all the difference. In this article, we'll review the top podcast apps for both Android and iOS, offering a range of features to cater to your interests.

What Are Podcast Apps and Why Do We Need Them?

Podcast apps, also known as podcast players, are digital platforms that enable users to stream or download episodic audio, and sometimes video, content directly to their devices. 

These apps significantly enhance the listening experience by offering features such as offline listening, personalized recommendations, playback speed controls, and the ability to create custom playlists. They provide a convenient way to access a vast array of podcast genres, from news and education to entertainment and niche hobbies, catering to diverse interests and preferences. 

Additionally, podcast apps allow content creators to reach a larger, more engaged audience by distributing their shows across multiple platforms, often with analytics tools to track performance and audience engagement. This convenience and variety make podcast apps an essential tool for both listeners and podcasters, enabling users to enjoy their favorite content anytime, anywhere.

How to Choose a Podcast App or Player

To make an informed decision, consider the following:

• Features: Podcast apps come with a wide range of features that can enhance your listening experience. Look for features like playlist customization, which allows you to organize your favorite episodes into specific playlists; voice boost, which enhances audio quality; and sleep timers, which automatically stop playback after a set period. Other useful features might include episode downloads for offline listening, playback speed adjustments, and smart recommendations based on your listening habits.
• User Interface: A podcast app with an intuitive, easy-to-use interface can save you time and reduce frustration. The best apps have clear navigation, making it easy to find and play episodes, subscribe to new podcasts, and manage your library. Consider apps that provide a seamless and visually appealing experience, as this can greatly enhance your enjoyment.
• Content Availability: The breadth and variety of content available on the app are crucial. Ensure the app hosts a diverse range of topics that interest you. Some apps also offer exclusive content and original shows that are not available on other platforms, which can be a significant advantage if you're looking for a unique listening experience.
• Ease of Use: The overall ease of use of the app is important. It should be straightforward to navigate through different sections, such as the home page, library, and search functions. User-friendly apps allow you to quickly find specific episodes, adjust settings, and manage subscriptions without unnecessary hassle.
• Accessibility: Look for apps that provide accessibility features, such as the ability to adjust playback speed and download content for offline playback. These features can help you save data and customize your listening experience to match your preferences, whether you want to speed through episodes or listen without an internet connection.
• Subscription Models: Consider the app’s subscription models, which can range from free to various tiers of paid subscriptions. Paid models often offer benefits such as ad-free listening, access to exclusive content, and additional features like enhanced audio quality or advanced analytics for podcasters. Evaluate whether the cost of a subscription aligns with the benefits provided and whether the free version offers enough functionality for your needs.

Top 8 Podcast Apps to Download in 2024 

1. Fourthwall

Fourthwall is a great download app for podcasts due to its user-friendly interface and robust features designed for both creators and listeners. Fourthwall's mobile apps offer seamless streaming for podcasters with their own Fourthwall website, allowing their supporters to easily access and enjoy podcast episodes on the go. 

Creators benefit from an intuitive upload process, where they can quickly add new episodes to their Fourthwall site, complete with customizable pages and integrated monetization options. Supporters find it easy to stream episodes directly from the app, enjoying a smooth, uninterrupted listening experience. 

Additionally, the app supports community engagement through features like push notifications for new content and comment replies, fostering a closer connection between creators and their audience.

Pricing: Mobile Apps is free to download and there is no 30% Apple and Google app fee. 

Pros:

• User-friendly interface.
  
  
• Seamless streaming experience.
  
  
• Available for iOS and Android.
  
  
• Easy upload process for creators.
  
  
• Customizable pages and monetization options.
  
  
• Community engagement features.
  
  

Cons:

• May lack advanced features found in more established podcast apps.
  
  
• Limited to podcasts hosted on Fourthwall.
  
  
• Newer platform, so smaller user base compared to major competitors.
  
  

2. Spotify 

Spotify is a favorite podcasting app for many. It is available on desktop and smartphone devices, including Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android, and can also be streamed online from the Spotify website. 

The platform hosts millions of podcast titles, including exclusive content from popular podcast hosts like Joe Rogan, Emma Chamberlain, and Bill Simmons, enhancing its appeal. The app allows users to create large playlists and list unlimited podcasts and songs, while its impressive algorithm suggests popular podcasts based on listening habits. 

With Spotify, users can view different podcast categories on the main page, making content discovery easy. Additionally, Spotify supports offline listening, customizable playlists, and cross-platform synchronization, ensuring a seamless user experience. 

Pricing: Basic Plan is free; Premium starts at 9.99/month

Pros:

• Extensive podcast library with exclusive content.
  
  
• Streams high-quality video podcasts.
  
  
• Available on multiple platforms (Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android) and online.
  
  
• Personalized recommendations based on listening habits.
  
  
• Offline listening and customizable playlists.

Cons:

• Advertisements in the free tier can be disruptive.
  
  
• Limited advanced podcast-specific features compared to some dedicated apps.
  
  
• Interface primarily designed for music, which might not be ideal for all podcast users.
  
  

3. Podbean

Podbean is a fantastic choice for listening to podcasts due to its extensive library, user-friendly interface, and robust features designed for both listeners and podcasters. 

Podbean not only offers a wide selection of podcasts across various genres but also includes a range of audiobooks, making it a comprehensive audio destination. The app allows users to customize listening speeds and features a built-in Volume Boost for crystal-clear audio, even if the podcast hosts speak softly. 

For podcasters, Podbean offers easy hosting, comprehensive analytics, monetization options, and distribution to major podcast directories. 

Additional features include the ability to add episodes via RSS feed or import them using an OPML file, lock screen controls, Amazon Alexa integration, and intelligent playback speed adjustment. Podbean also supports live streaming, enabling real-time interaction with listeners.

Pricing: Basic Plan is free; Unlimited Audio starts at $9/month.

Pros:

• Extensive library of podcasts and audiobooks.
  
  
• Customizable listening speeds and Volume Boost feature.
  
  
• Easy podcast hosting with comprehensive analytics.
  
  
• Multiple monetization options and easy distribution.
  
  
• Support for live streaming and real-time audience interaction.
  
  
• Integration with Amazon Alexa and lock screen controls.
  
  

Cons:

• Some features may be limited on the free plan.
  
  
• Interface may feel cluttered for new users.
  
  
• Limited advanced editing tools compared to some competitors.
  
  
• The app can be buggy on older devices or versions.
  
  
• Premium features and advanced analytics may require a paid plan.
  
  

4. Pocket Casts

Pocket Casts has become one of the top podcasting apps for Android and iOS. Its straightforward design allows users to effortlessly discover podcasts, navigate through recommendations, subscribe to favorites, and listen. 

Available on Google Play Store, Pocket Casts organizes episodes into seasons and offers manual or automatic downloads for offline listening. The app features advanced playback controls, including speed adjustments, a volume booster, and the option to remove moments of silence.  

The app also includes a beautiful dark theme, fun playback stats to track listening habits, auto-downloads for new episodes, a sleep timer, and episode filtering options based on download status, release date, and favorites. Podcasters choose Pocket Casts for its broad user base, ease of access, and robust features that enhance listener engagement.

Pricing: Basic Plan is free; Pocket Casts Plus starts at $1.25/month.

Pros:

• User-friendly and intuitive interface.
  
  
• Free to use.
  
  
• Advanced playback controls (speed, volume booster, silence removal).
  
  
• Fun playback stats to track listening habits.
  
  
• Compatible with Apple Car Play and Android Auto.
  
  

Cons:

• Some users may find the feature set overwhelming.
  
  
• Can’t make lists of podcast episodes.
  
  
• Limited advanced editing tools for podcasters.
  
  
• Ads in the free version can be intrusive.
  
  

5. Castbox

Castbox may not have an intuitive interface like most of the other well-known podcasting apps on this list, but the platform has become popular due to its unique approach of providing various content sources, such as FM radio and a large selection of audiobooks, alongside traditional podcasts. 

The app features a user-friendly interface with extensive language support, offering content in 70 different languages, making it ideal for language learners. Castbox's built-in Zen Mode sets it apart by helping users create a peaceful sleep environment or enhance concentration while working. 

Castbox also provides a Listening Time tab, allowing users to track the duration spent on different podcasts throughout the day. Additional features include Chromecast integration for seamless streaming to compatible devices, compatibility with Amazon Echo for voice-command access, and the ability to transfer favorite podcasts using OPML import/export functionality. 

Pricing: Castbox is free to download and use.

Pros:

• Wide range of content, including FM radio and audiobooks.
  
  
• Extensive language support (70 languages).
  
  
• Unique Zen Mode for sleep and concentration.
  
  
• Listening Time tab to track podcast duration.
  
  
• Chromecast integration and Amazon Echo compatibility.
  
  
• OPML import/export functionality for easy podcast transfer.
  
  

Cons:

• Some advanced features may require a premium subscription.
  
  
• Interface can be overwhelming for new users.
  
  
• Occasional bugs and performance issues on certain devices.
  
  
• Limited advanced editing tools for podcasters.
  
  
• Ads in the free version can be intrusive.
  
  

6. Stitcher

Stitcher is a popular app for podcast enthusiasts due to its dual role as a podcast network and an app. It offers a mix of original shows and essential playback features. 

While it may not boast the most extensive feature set, Stitcher includes necessary tools like a sleep timer, customizable forward and back arrows, and different playback speed settings. 

Available on Android, iOS, and via a web player, Stitcher ensures you can listen almost anywhere, including through Amazon Alexa, Android Auto, CarPlay, and smart audio systems. 

Stitcher is renowned for its more than 50 original shows, such as "Comedy Bang! Bang!", "How Did This Get Made?", and "The Sporkful." Podcasters choose Stitcher for its broad reach and ability to offer exclusive content to a dedicated audience.

Pricing: Basic Plan is free; Premium plan starts at $2.90/month.

Pros:

• Listen to exclusive podcasts.
  
  
• Premium subscription offers early access to podcasts, tickets, and free shipping on Podswag.com.
  
  
• Available on multiple platforms, including smart audio systems and in-car setups.
  
  
• Includes essential playback features like a sleep timer and customizable playback speeds.
  
  

Cons:

• The free version has limited podcasting features.
  
  
• Not as feature-rich as some other podcast apps.
  
  
• Some original content is locked behind a premium subscription.
  
  

7. StreamYard

StreamYard is a versatile app for creating high-quality video podcasts and interviews, requiring no expertise in video editing. 

It offers features like screen sharing, live commenting, and support for multiple guests, making it ideal for dynamic and engaging content. StreamYard provides users with a simple, intuitive interface that can be easily customized to match their branding. 

Additionally, it allows users to stream to all major platforms simultaneously, ensuring maximum coverage and audience reach for their podcasts.

Pricing: StreamYard offers a free plan with limited features. However, their Basic Plan starts at $20/month.

Pros:

• User-friendly and intuitive interface.
  
  
• Requires no video editing expertise.
  
  
• Supports screen sharing and live commenting.
  
  
• Allows multiple guest participation.
  
  
• Streams to multiple platforms simultaneously.
  
  

Cons:

• Limited advanced editing features.
  
  
• Dependency on a stable internet connection for live streaming.
  
  
• Potentially higher costs for premium features.
  
  

8. Apple Podcasts

If you’re a heavy Apple user, then Apple Podcasts is most likely your go-to for podcast listening. The platform has become very popular due to its seamless integration across the Apple ecosystem and its intelligent personalization features. 

The app offers custom playlists of top podcasts and becomes smarter with use, providing personalized recommendations based on listening behavior. Apple Podcasts includes curated playlists tailored to various tastes and preferences, such as bedtime or kid-friendly options. 

Subscribers can enjoy ad-free listening and exclusive episodes not available elsewhere. The app supports Siri for voice commands and is compatible with CarPlay, Apple Watch, Apple TV, and HomePod, enhancing convenience and accessibility. Additionally, Apple Podcasts allows for offline listening and syncing across multiple devices, ensuring a seamless experience.

Pricing: Free on any iOS phone. 

Pros:

• Exclusive access to bonus content and ad-free listening.
  
  
• Compatibility with various Apple devices (Siri, CarPlay, Apple Watch, Apple TV, HomePod).
  
  
• Personalized recommendations based on listening behavior.
  
  
• Curated playlists tailored to different tastes and preferences.
  
  
• Offline listening and cross-device syncing.
  
  

Cons:

• Some podcast shows require a monthly fee for access to exclusive content.
  
  
• Limited to the Apple ecosystem, restricting non-Apple users.
  
  
• Fewer advanced customization options compared to some other podcast apps.
  
  

9. Audible

As an Amazon subsidiary, Audible offers a seamless user experience. Users can purchase individual audiobooks with a free account or subscribe to Audible Plus or Premium Plus for access to thousands of titles and exclusive content. 

New users receive free credits during the trial period, which can be used for any podcast or book, and one credit each month thereafter. The app supports streaming, downloads, and syncing progress across multiple devices, making it easy to enjoy content anytime, anywhere.

Podcasters choose Audible for its vast reach and association with Amazon, which provides a significant platform for distribution and monetization.

Pricing: Audible subscription starts at $14.95/month.

Pros:

• Access to exclusive original podcasts from celebrities.
  
  
• Extensive library with over 500,000 titles, including best-selling audiobooks.
  
  
• Streaming and downloads with progress monitoring across devices.
  
  
• Large collection of genres to choose from.
  
  
• Free credits during the trial period and monthly credits thereafter.
  
  

Cons:

• An Audible monthly subscription can be pricey.
  
  
• May have a steeper learning curve for new users compared to simpler apps.
  
  
• Some content is locked behind subscriptions, limiting access for free users.
  
  

10. YouTube Music

In April of this year, Google Podcasts took its last bow and became fully integrated with YouTube Music, a personalized music and podcast experience for YouTube users. 

Similar to YouTube’s platform, the app features sections such as Home, Sample, Explore, and Library, each designed to enhance the user experience with personalized recommendations and easy access to music and podcasts. 

The Home page provides tailored suggestions based on listening habits, while the Sample section offers short video snippets curated for each user. Explore helps discover new albums and podcasts, and the Library shows listening history, favorite artists, and playlists. 

The integration of Google account information further personalizes the experience, ensuring users receive relevant content. In 2023, Google added a Podcasts link to the Home section, promoting podcasts that align with the listener's musical preferences, although the library size may not yet rival that of Spotify or Apple Podcasts. 

Pricing: YouTube Music is free to download and use; YouTube Music Premium starts at $10.99/month.

Pros:

• Simple and minimalistic interface.
  
  
• Personalized recommendations based on Google account history.
  
  
• Sections for easy navigation: Home, Sample, Explore, and Library.
  
  
• Integration with music and podcast content.
  
  
• Ability to discover new content and access listening history.
  
  

Cons:

• Smaller podcast library compared to Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
  
  
• Focus primarily on music may limit advanced podcast-specific features.
  
  
• Premium features may require a subscription.
  
  
• Not as specialized in podcasts as dedicated apps like Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
  
  

Enhance Your Podcasting Journey: Discover Fourthwall

Choosing the right podcast app can make all the difference in creating or enjoying your podcast experience. Consider researching each app's unique features to identify which one aligns with your needs and preferences. 

From listening to recording to creating videos, the apps we've recommended will provide you with the best options. Enhance your podcasting journey with Fourthwall - your reliable partner to take your content to the next level.

Fourthwall is an all-in-one creator platform that offers website launching, product selling and membership for your supporters - a one-stop-shop for your podcasting needs. Whether you're looking to increase your reach or simply monetize your podcast, Fourthwall is the perfect choice for creators looking to take their podcasting journey to a new level.