Blubrry vs RedCircle
A side-by-side look at Blubrry and RedCircle for podcasters: pricing, features, and where each one wins.
RedCircle
Free podcast hosting with built-in monetization and dynamic ad insertion
Free plan
Visit RedCircleAt a glance
| Blubrry | RedCircle | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $15/mo | Free plan |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | No | No |
| Best for | WordPress-based podcasters and professional creators who prioritize accurate, advertiser-trusted analytics and content ownership | Independent podcasters who want to start monetizing without paying for a hosting plan first |
| Founded | 2005 | - |
Key features
Blubrry
- PowerPress WordPress plugin for native podcast publishing
- IAB-certified download analytics with listener retention data
- Dynamic ad insertion and programmatic advertising
- Vid2Pod: converts YouTube playlists to audio-only podcast feeds
- AI assistant for episode planning and social media content
- Standalone statistics plan compatible with any podcast host
RedCircle
- Free podcast hosting with unlimited uploads
- Dynamic ad insertion and programmatic ad marketplace
- Listener support tools (subscriptions and donations)
- Cross-promotional network for podcast-to-podcast promos
- Detailed download analytics
- Custom RSS feed and distribution to major platforms
Pros and cons
Blubrry
Pros
- PowerPress is the definitive WordPress podcasting plugin
- IAB-certified analytics with genuine depth - not just download counts
- 20-year track record with no acquisition or pivot disruption
Cons
- Storage caps are low - 125MB/month on Standard is tight for weekly shows
- Interface and marketing have not kept up with modern competitors
- AI tools feel added-on rather than core to the product
RedCircle
Pros
- Free hosting with no storage or bandwidth limits
- Monetization tools available from day one - no tier upgrades required
- Cross-promo network helps smaller shows grow through audience sharing
Cons
- RevShare model on ad revenue means RedCircle takes a cut as you scale
- Pricing page was inaccessible during research - exact RevShare percentage unconfirmed
- Ad marketplace works best for shows with established audiences; very new shows may see limited sponsor interest
The verdict
Choose Blubrry if
WordPress-based podcasters and professional creators who prioritize accurate, advertiser-trusted analytics and content ownership.
Blubrry is the unsexy choice that serious podcasters often land on after trying flashier alternatives. The analytics are genuinely good - IAB-certified, detailed listener retention, device and geo data - and PowerPress remains the gold standard for WordPress podcast publishing.…
Choose RedCircle if
Independent podcasters who want to start monetizing without paying for a hosting plan first.
RedCircle's free-to-host, revenue-share model is a compelling entry point for podcasters who want monetization without upfront costs. The dynamic ad insertion marketplace is functional and accessible for shows that don't have the audience for direct sponsorships. The catch is the…