Pinecast vs Simplecast
A side-by-side look at Pinecast and Simplecast for podcasters: pricing, features, and where each one wins.
Simplecast
Podcast hosting and monetization built for networks and serious independents
$15/mo
Visit SimplecastAt a glance
| Pinecast | Simplecast | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $10/mo | $15/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | No |
| Free trial | No | Yes |
| Best for | Independent podcasters who want a clean, affordable host with a real free tier and straightforward upgrade pricing | Mid-size podcast networks and serious independents who need certified analytics and monetization in one platform |
| Founded | 2015 | - |
Key features
Pinecast
- Podcast hosting with distribution to all major directories
- Free transcripts on paid plans
- Tip jar and paid content monetization built in
- Podcast website creation included
- Collaboration via Crew add-on for team shows
- Analytics and listener insights
Simplecast
- One-click distribution to Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major directories
- IAB-certified audience analytics (unique listeners, location, technology data)
- Built-in podcast website with custom domain support
- Multi-show management with team permissions
- Embeddable web players (oEmbed-ready)
- Dynamic ad insertion and AdsWizz Marketplace access (Professional and Enterprise)
Pros and cons
Pinecast
Pros
- Free tier with no time limit is genuinely useful for new shows
- Very competitive pricing - $10/mo for unlimited episodes and transcripts
- Honest, modular add-on structure - pay for what you need
- Stable platform with nearly a decade of track record
Cons
- UI is utilitarian - not the most polished experience
- No built-in video podcast support
- Smaller ecosystem of integrations compared to larger hosts
Simplecast
Pros
- IAB-certified analytics carry credibility for ad sales and sponsorship negotiations
- 14-day free trial with no credit card required
- Clean interface for managing multiple shows with team-based permissions
Cons
- Dynamic ad insertion only available on custom-priced Professional and Enterprise plans
- 20K-50K monthly download caps on base plans may constrain fast-growing shows
- Customer support rated as inconsistent at the Basic tier level
The verdict
Choose Pinecast if
Independent podcasters who want a clean, affordable host with a real free tier and straightforward upgrade pricing.
Pinecast punches above its weight for the price - the $10/month Starter plan covers unlimited episodes and includes free transcripts, which undercuts a lot of competitors. The analytics and tip jar monetization tools are decent without being flashy. The platform…
Choose Simplecast if
Mid-size podcast networks and serious independents who need certified analytics and monetization in one platform.
Simplecast has held up well as the space has gotten more crowded - it does the fundamentals cleanly, and the IAB-certified analytics are table stakes for any show running direct sponsorships. The inclusion of AdsWizz Marketplace access on the Professional…