RedCircle vs Simplecast
A side-by-side look at RedCircle and Simplecast for podcasters: pricing, features, and where each one wins.
RedCircle
Free podcast hosting with built-in monetization and dynamic ad insertion
Free plan
Visit RedCircle
Simplecast
Podcast hosting and monetization built for networks and serious independents
$15/mo
Visit SimplecastAt a glance
| RedCircle | Simplecast | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free plan | $15/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | No |
| Free trial | No | Yes |
| Best for | Independent podcasters who want to start monetizing without paying for a hosting plan first | Mid-size podcast networks and serious independents who need certified analytics and monetization in one platform |
Key features
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
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
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
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 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…
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…