Buzzsprout vs Captivate
A side-by-side look at Buzzsprout and Captivate for podcasters: pricing, features, and where each one wins.
At a glance
| Buzzsprout | Captivate | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $15/mo | $17/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | No |
| Free trial | No | Yes |
| Best for | New and independent podcasters who want a reliable, well-supported host with a true free tier to test the waters | Growth-focused podcasters and small agencies who need multi-show hosting, monetization tools, and analytics without paying per show |
| Founded | 2009 | 2013 |
Key features
Buzzsprout
- Audio and video podcast hosting with directory distribution
- AI transcripts and show notes via CoHost AI
- Magic Mastering for automated audio enhancement
- IAB-certified analytics
- Fan Mail listener feedback system
- Visual soundbite generator for social media
- Podcast website with custom domain support
Captivate
- Unlimited podcast hosting across multiple shows
- IAB-certified analytics included on all plans
- Built-in monetization: memberships, tips, exclusive content
- Guest booking and interview management tools
- Transcription and dynamic show notes via Captivate Assistant
- Private and members-only podcast support
- Podcasting 2.0 support
- Video podcast publishing to Apple Podcasts
Pros and cons
Buzzsprout
Pros
- Established platform with 15+ years of reliability and a large support community
- True free tier for testing before committing
- Clean, beginner-friendly interface
Cons
- Free episodes expire after 90 days - not a permanent free host
- Upload-hours caps (not download-based) can catch fast-publishing shows off guard
- AI tools (CoHost AI, Magic Mastering) cost extra on top of plan price
Captivate
Pros
- IAB analytics included on every plan, not gated behind premium tiers
- 30-day free trial - longer than most competitors
- Built-in monetization tools without needing third-party add-ons
Cons
- Interface is functional but less polished than some competitors
- Some advanced features feel underdeveloped relative to their billing
- No free permanent tier
The verdict
Choose Buzzsprout if
New and independent podcasters who want a reliable, well-supported host with a true free tier to test the waters.
Buzzsprout has stayed relevant for 15+ years by being genuinely good at the basics: easy setup, clean interface, reliable distribution, and strong customer support. The upload-hours pricing model is different from the download-based model most competitors use - it can…
Choose Captivate if
Growth-focused podcasters and small agencies who need multi-show hosting, monetization tools, and analytics without paying per show.
Captivate earns points for including IAB-certified analytics on every plan - not just premium tiers - and for building monetization tools directly into the platform rather than routing you to third-party integrations. The 30-day free trial is genuinely long compared…