Best Remote Podcast Recording Software & Platforms

Remote podcasting is bigger than ever. Whether you’re interviewing guests across the globe, hosting a long-distance co-host, or running a fully remote panel, the right podcast recording software makes the difference between “just okay” and studio-quality episodes.

This guide compares the top remote podcast recording platforms for 2025, with clear pros and cons, comparison tables, and actionable tips—so you can pick the best software for your show.


Why Your Software Choice Matters

Remote podcasts face unique challenges: dropped calls, lag, background noise, and guest tech struggles. Choosing the right software means:

  • Higher audio and video quality (even with iffy internet)

  • Easier separate-track editing

  • Fewer tech headaches for you and your guests

  • Better reliability and backups


Quick Comparison Table: Remote Podcast Recording Software

Platform Free Plan Local Recording Separate Tracks Video Browser-Based Best For
Riverside.fm Limited Yes Yes Yes Yes Pro podcasting, 4K video
SquadCast No Yes Yes Yes Yes Interviews, pro workflow
Zencastr Yes (basic) Yes Yes Yes Yes Simplicity, teams
StreamYard Yes Cloud/Local* Yes (paid) Yes Yes Livestreaming, panels
Zoom Yes No* Yes Yes Yes Guest familiarity, backup
Cleanfeed Yes No Yes (Pro) No Yes Audio-only, browser-only

*StreamYard does separate tracks on paid plans. Zoom can do local recording but audio is compressed unless “original sound” is on.


In-Depth: Top Podcast Recording Platforms

Riverside.fm

  • Best for: Highest audio/video quality, “double-ender” recording, easy guest experience

  • Features: Separate tracks, up to 4K video, progressive uploads, browser-based, live call-in, backups

  • Drawbacks: No true free plan, best on Chrome browser, higher cost for advanced features


SquadCast

  • Best for: Professional audio, remote interviews, multi-track recording

  • Features: Separate WAV/MP3 tracks, video, screen sharing, cloud backups, browser-based

  • Drawbacks: Subscription required, video not as advanced as Riverside


Zencastr

  • Best for: Audio-focused podcasters who want easy, reliable workflow

  • Features: Separate tracks, easy guest invites, audio and basic video, editing tools

  • Drawbacks: Some advanced features require paid plan, video less robust


StreamYard

  • Best for: Livestreamed podcasts, multi-platform streaming, and simple video panels

  • Features: Invite guests via link (browser), stream to YouTube/Facebook/etc., branded layouts, cloud recording, separate audio/video tracks (paid), easy onboarding

  • Drawbacks: Audio quality slightly lower than “double-ender” platforms, most features are on paid plans


Zoom

  • Best for: Maximum guest familiarity, backup solution, live panel discussions

  • Features: Ubiquitous, easy for any guest, separate track recording, built-in video

  • Drawbacks: Compressed audio unless “original sound” is enabled, not designed for podcasts


Cleanfeed

  • Best for: Free, browser-based audio-only recording

  • Features: High-quality stereo audio, instant guest invites, separate tracks (Pro)

  • Drawbacks: No video, interface is basic, some pro features paywalled


How to Choose the Right Platform

  • For best quality and control: Riverside or SquadCast

  • For livestreaming and video podcasts: StreamYard

  • For budget or audio-only: Zencastr or Cleanfeed

  • For guests who know Zoom (and as a backup): Zoom


Tips for Smoother Remote Recordings

  • Send a prep checklist to guests: Headphones, wired connection, quiet space, test link in advance

  • Always record a backup: Use a second platform or ask guests to record locally (if possible)

  • Use separate tracks for editing: Makes fixing mistakes and balancing voices much easier


FAQ: Remote Podcast Recording Software

Can I record a podcast with just Zoom?
Yes, but for best audio, enable “original sound” and use headphones. For higher quality, try a platform like Riverside or SquadCast.

Is there a truly free platform for remote podcasts?
Cleanfeed and Zencastr (basic) offer free audio-only remote recording with separate tracks.

Does StreamYard work for audio-only podcasts?
Yes—you can download separate audio files even if you don’t go live.

What about recording video podcasts?
Riverside, SquadCast, Zencastr, and StreamYard all support video. For highest video quality, use Riverside.


🎬 Final Thoughts: Power Up Your Remote Podcast Studio

Remote podcasting has opened the door to global collaboration—and this guide helped you lock in the right podcast microphone bundle to sound great wherever you record. But software matters just as much as hardware when you’re recording from afar.

Whether you’re interviewing guests, co-hosting across time zones, or streaming live, your studio setup depends on reliable tools that make remote production smooth and professional.

👉 Here’s what to upgrade next:

Remote podcasting doesn’t mean compromising on quality. With the right platforms, gear, and setup, your podcast will look and sound just as pro as any in-studio show. Now’s the time to level up your remote workflow.