Here at Dear Media, if there’s one thing we’ve learned over the years, it’s that there are a few things that can totally make or break a podcast. And one of those things is audio quality. With the number of podcasts being produced increasing daily, the amount of podcasting recording software to choose from is increasing as well.
Because there are so many recording software to choose from, and because each is different from the last – it’s important to choose the recording software that is best for you. Things to consider when choosing a recording software include, but are not limited to, ease of use, budget, capabilities, the brand of laptop you have, and so much more!
So, to help you decide which recording software is best for you based on your budget, setup, and needs, we’re going to break down the top ten recording software and talk about the pros and cons of each. Let’s dive right in!
10 Best Podcast Recording Software
Adobe Audition
Boasting a multitude of capabilities and features, Adobe Audition is one of the most popular audio recording and editing software today for Windows and macOS. This software offers a free trial, a discount for students, and a plethora of free training videos.
Pros:
- Has extensive features & capabilities
- Great at reducing background noise
- Excellent at restoring audio
Cons:
- Lacks music-specific tools
- Known to freeze from time to time
- Steep learning curve
Cost: $20/month
Alitu
For those of you that lack audio recording experience, this might be the perfect podcasting recording software for you. With many automated editing features and a super easy-to-use interface, this recording software makes creating and editing a podcast episodes a breeze. This software offers a 7 day free trial, a monthly and yearly payment option, and the option to host virtual interviews & calls.
Pros:
- Automatically cleans up audio
- Very user friendly (drag & drop options)
- Free music-library
Cons:
- Lacks some important capabilities
- Editing is automated – reducing creative freedom
- Can only download in MP3 format
Cost: $28/month
Audacity
Looking for a super budget-friendly option? Look no further than Audacity. This recording software is absolutely free to the public and is easily downloaded onto almost any device. This audio recording and editing software has all the basic features you’ll need to produce a podcast, minus a few key capabilities like multitrack recording and live support.
Pros:
- Simple & easy-to-use interface
- Works for Windows, MAC, and Linux
- Great at splitting broadcast WAV files
Cons:
- Minimal plugin support
- Several known bugs exist that slow the functionality
- Only open source support – no tutorials or help lines
Cost: $0/month
Cast
Cast is a true all-in-one podcasting solution. With multiple pricing plans, you can choose the plan that best fits your needs, without breaking the bank. And the best part is, when it comes to recording, editing, and publishing, this software is super intuitive – even for the most inexperienced podcasters. Just starting out? Be sure to check out our list of podcasting tips for beginners.
Pros:
- 30-day free trial
- Works for Windows, MAC, and Linux
- Great publishing and distribution tools
Cons:
- No free version
- Only works via Chrome on desktop
- Known to have a persistent hum in test recordings
Cost: $10-$30/month
GarageBand
Like Audacity, GarageBand is another free recording and editing software, perfect for those on a budget or just starting out. This software is Apple’s free DAW for iOS and macOS devices only. While mostly geared toward musical creators, you can totally use this software for podcasting with a few tweaks to the settings and a small investment in a good-quality microphone. For more on equipment, check out our blog on everything you need to launch your podcast.
Pros:
- Free
- Super intuitive interface
- iCloud backup
Cons:
- For use on MAC only
- Can’t record multiple participants
- Lacks more advanced features
Cost: $0/month
Hindenburg Journalist
This software is PERFECT for the experienced podcaster. With a full arsenal of every feature you can think of and plenty of products to choose from, this recording software is excellent for those looking to take their podcasting game to the next level. Plus, with a 30-day free trial, you can feel free to try out this software for a full month before fully committing.
Pros:
- Has an app for mobile recording (iOS only)
- Uploads straight to SoundCloud or Libsyn
- Specifically designed for podcasters
Cons:
- More expensive than other options
- Steep learning curve
- Can only access full-features in Pro-Version
Cost: $99 – $395/license
Logic Pro
Logic Pro is your “complete professional recording studio on the Mac”. While originally created for musicians, this software now contains a multitude of plug-in options and capabilities that make podcasting so much easier. This software also boasts an app for remote recording, 24-bit/192kHZ audio recording, and a one-time fee rather than a monthly subscription.
Pros:
- Professional grade sound-quality
- Works with GarageBand files
- Plenty of ready-to-use plug-ins
Cons:
- For use on Mac only
- Mostly geared toward music production
- May be expensive to beginners
Cost: $200 one-time payment
Squadcast
For those of you that love interviewing guests on your podcast, Squadcast is the perfect recording and editing service. Capabilities include auto-backup, crystal clear audio, built in safety features for total power loss, and a browser based interface for ease of recording with multiple participants.
Pros:
- Easily record separate audio tracks remotely
- No additional software or downloads required
- Quick & easy to use post-production editing interface
Cons:
- No free version for novices or beginners
- More expensive than other options
- No mobile app option
Cost: $40-$300/month
Zencaster
Looking to record remotely, but don’t have the budget to invest in a whole new podcast studio? Zencaster might be just what you’re looking for. This recording software is specially designed to capture clear and high-quality audio while removing any and all background noise. It also boasts secure cloud backup and offers a free trial so you know what you’re getting into.
Pros:
- No time limit
- Records a separate audio track for each guest
- Has free version for Hobbyists
Cons:
- Known to have lackluster support services
- Minimal video options
- Ineffective on a PC (known to pop)
Cost: $20/month
Zoom
Using Zoom is one of the best ways to record a podcast remotely! With screen sharing capabilities, the ability to download multiple separate tracks, and the ability to download in multiple formats, Zoom makes recording podcasts easy. However, it’s important to note that Zoom isn’t an editing software. In order to edit your Zoom recordings, you’ll need to download your audio and upload into an editing software of your choosing.
Pros:
- Super intuitive interface
- There are a multitude of training videos available
- Perfect for remote interviewing (easy to invite guests)
Cons:
- Not an editing software
- Free version only allows 40 min of recording per session
- Requires stable internet (does not automatically back up)
Cost: $150-$240/year
Choose the recording software that is best for you!
As you can see, recording software varies greatly depending on your needs and budget. While some have a plethora of capabilities for both recording and editing, you will find that some on this list are for recording only. So, be sure to always do your own research before purchasing any product.
Most importantly, don’t forget that you totally DO NOT have to do this all on your own! Here at Dear Media, we have a huge variety of podcasting tips and tricks from How to Grow Your Podcast to How to Monetize Your Podcast (and soooo much more!). Plus, we offer podcast producing services for those of you looking to take your podcast to the next level.
As always, if you guys have any additional questions or comments, feel free to drop them below. And, be sure to check back in often for new releases, updates, and podcasting tips.