Best Free Podcast Hosting Platforms for Beginners
Want to launch a podcast without spending a dime? You’re in the right place. In 2024, several podcast hosting platforms offer truly free plans—not limited-time trials, but ongoing free options that give you the core tools you need to get started.
With a free plan, you can upload episodes, distribute your show to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major directories, and access basic analytics to track your growth. Some even let you monetize from day one.
That said, not all free hosts are equal. Some limit how many episodes you can upload or restrict monetization unless you upgrade. Others show ads, brand your content, or lack support. This guide compares the best free podcast hosting platforms for beginners based on:
- Storage and upload limits
- Distribution and RSS feed access
- Analytics tools
- Monetization options
- Upgrade pressures and limitations
Whether you’re launching your very first show or experimenting with a side project, this breakdown will help you choose the best free podcast host for your needs—without the trial-and-error.
TL;DR
I highly recommend you take a look at Podbean because it’s got a fantastic free plan, and it’s a robust platform with room to grow. Oh and for those looking to hit the ground running and who want to make a little money with their hobby I can’t recommend my free ebook on monetization and the free video training… Every single person I’ve shown this stuff to has nearly keeled over in awe of how easy this stuff can work. If you want to check that out, please go here and opt in. Otherwise, please keep reading…
What Is Podcast Hosting?
A podcast host is a service that stores your podcast audio files, generates your show’s RSS feed, and helps distribute your episodes to major platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
Without a podcast host, your audio files have nowhere to live. You can’t just upload episodes to your personal blog or Google Drive and expect Spotify to find them. Instead, a podcast host:
- Stores your audio on reliable servers with enough bandwidth to handle downloads
- Creates and maintains your RSS feed, the backbone that directories use to detect and display your episodes
- Pushes updates to listening platforms whenever you publish a new episode
In short: podcast hosting is the technical foundation that makes your show accessible to the world. It’s essential for every podcast.
What to Look For in a Free Podcast Host
Click here to see my favorite free podcasting platform
Before choosing a free hosting platform, it’s important to know what trade-offs come with it. Here are the key features to compare:
- Storage limits and upload caps: Some hosts give you unlimited episodes, others cap you at 5 hours or 5 episodes. Check what you’re allowed to upload, both per month and in total.
- Distribution options: A good host makes it easy to distribute your show to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major apps. Look for built-in tools or RSS feed access.
- Analytics access: Some platforms offer advanced stats, even for free. Others give you only the basics or nothing at all.
- Monetization tools: If you plan to earn from your podcast, see if the platform offers sponsorships, listener donations, or ads on the free plan.
- Upgrade pressures: Free doesn’t always mean free forever. Some platforms expire episodes after 90 days, limit your storage to encourage upgrades, or place ads on your show.
Knowing these trade-offs helps you pick a free host that fits your goals—and doesn’t surprise you later.
Comparison Table: Top Free Podcast Hosting Platforms
| Platform | Storage & Uploads | Distribution | Analytics | Monetization | Key Limitations / Upgrade Pressures |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Unlimited | All major platforms via RSS, one-click to Spotify | Basic dashboard | Built-in ads + listener support (region-limited) | One show per account, no embeddable player |
 |
2 hours/month (deleted after 90 days) | All major directories via dashboard | Limited on free plan | Requires upgrade | Episodes deleted after 90 days, limited upload time |
 |
5 episodes (unlimited if ads enabled) | All major directories, RSS + embed player + basic site | Advanced (IAB-compliant) | Acast ads (if eligible) | 5-episode cap unless ads enabled, Acast branding |
| RedCircle | Unlimited | All major directories (audio only) | Standard stats | Donations + ad platform (RAP) | Audio only, slower support, ad control limited |
| Pinecast | 10 episodes/show (2 shows) | All major platforms + podcast site + embed player | Basic stats | Tip jar (30% fee) | 10-episode limit per show, 48 MB max/episode |
 |
5 hours total | All major platforms + Podbean app directory | Basic download stats | Requires upgrade | 5-hour total storage, basic site branding |
| Podomatic | 500 MB | RSS + social sharing tools | None | None | Storage cap, no stats, basic features only |
 |
5 hours total | One-click to all major directories | Basic (downloads & listeners) | Programmatic ads | 5-hour total cap, limited live streaming |
FAQs About Free Podcast Hosting
Is free podcast hosting really free?
Yes—many platforms offer free plans with no time limit. However, most come with trade-offs like limited storage, missing features, or advertising.
Can I monetize my podcast on a free plan?
It depends on the platform. Some hosts like Spotify for Podcasters, Spreaker, and RedCircle allow basic ad monetization or listener donations. Others lock these features behind a paid plan.
What happens when I run out of space?
You’ll either need to delete old episodes, stop uploading, or upgrade to a paid plan for more storage and features.
Can I move to a different podcast host later?
Yes. Most hosts allow you to export your RSS feed and migrate your podcast to another platform without losing your subscribers.
Will my show disappear if I use a free plan?
Only if the host places a time limit (like Buzzsprout’s 90-day limit). Always check the fine print to see if episodes expire.
Final Thoughts
Free podcast hosting is a great way to test your concept, launch your first show, or simply get your voice out into the world with zero budget. Each platform covered here brings something different to the table—some prioritize unlimited uploads, others offer monetization from day one, and some focus on simplicity or scalability.
Start with the platform that aligns best with your goals right now. And remember: nothing is permanent. You can always switch hosts later as your podcast grows and your needs change.
We also compare these platforms:
💌 Want to learn more about making money from podcasting? Check out our Podcast Monetization Guide.
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- Why Most Spotify Podcasts Don’t Make Money (And What To Do Instead)
- The Fastest Way to Make Money From Your Podcast (Even If You’re Low on Time)