Struggling to find the perfect podcast recording software for your needs? Whether you’re just starting out or looking for advanced tools, this guide simplifies the choices to help you create your best podcast yet. From audio and video recording to editing and screen capture, we’ve covered every scenario.

Podcast Recording Software: Quick Comparison

Click for great podcast recording software

Below is a quick overview of top podcast recording software, their best use cases, pros, and cons.

Best Podcast Editing & Recording Software: Top Picks

Each podcast recording tool has its strengths. To find what works best for you, consider testing a few options. Below, we outline scenarios and recommend tools to match your needs.

The Solo Podcast

A solo show simplifies things, allowing you to record and edit within the same program.

• Top Recommendation: Podcastle. It’s simple to use, with built-in tools that streamline the process.

The Interview Podcast

If you’re planning to chat with guests, you’ll need software that facilitates remote recording.

• Top Options: Skype, Zencastr, and Zoom. For an all-in-one solution with hosting, look to Podbean.

Group Recording

For multi-host podcasts:

• Podbean App Group Recording Tool: Record remote sessions with up to eight participants. Each audio file is uploaded to the cloud for easy editing.

Live Stream Podcasts

• StreamYard: Ideal for live streaming with co-hosts or guests. It’s browser-based, requires no downloads, and offers high-quality video and audio recording.
• Podbean Live Stream: Offers live audio broadcasting, supports multiple co-hosts, and allows interaction through real-time chat and call-ins.

Best for Editing

• Top Picks: Podcastle, Adobe Audition, Audacity, GarageBand.

Top Podcast Recording Software for Video

Key Takeaways

• OBS Studio: Best for advanced users who want flexibility.
• Zoom: Great for beginners but consider upgrading for better quality.
• Riverside.fm: Ideal for professional remote podcasts.
• StreamYard: Perfect for live streaming with co-hosts or guests.

Troubleshooting: Why Screen Recordings Might Lack Sound

Click here for my favorite screen recording software with audio controls

If your screen recordings lack sound, here are some common issues and fixes:

• Audio Source Not Selected: Ensure the software is configured to capture the correct audio source (e.g., system sounds or microphone).
• System Audio Not Enabled: Check settings for system audio recording and enable it if needed.
• Microphone Not Working: Verify that your microphone is connected and set as the default input device.
• Audio Driver Issues: Update your audio drivers to prevent compatibility problems.
• Software Limitations: Refer to the software’s documentation to check for any audio capture restrictions.

Final Recommendations

The best podcast recording software depends on your goals and budget:

• Beginners: Start with free tools like Audacity or GarageBand.
• Intermediate Users: Try Podcastle or Podbean for all-in-one solutions.
• Professionals: Invest in Adobe Audition or Riverside.fm for top-tier quality.

Don’t let software hold you back—your perfect podcast starts with the right tools. Click here to download our free podcast setup checklist!

This comprehensive guide is here to help choose the best podcast recording software. We’ll cut through the jargon and match you with the perfect tools for your specific needs, whether you’re a beginner on a budget or a seasoned pro looking for advanced features.

Podcast Recording Software

Here are some of the contenders. We break down the different software with who they’re best for, pros, and cons.

Best Podcast Editing & Recording Software: Our Top Picks

Each software has it’s pros and cons, but whatever software you choose it needs to be the one YOU like the most. That’s why I always encourage podcasters to try different software out (try the free stuff first obviously) and then figure out what works in your workflow best. With that said, here are some scenarios and how I would approach them.

• The Solo Podcast: A solo show simplifies things, allowing you to record and edit within the same program. Our top recommendation for this is Podcastle as it is very simple to use, and it has built in tools that make the process very easy.

• The Interview Podcast, Q&A shows, on-the-go podcasts: If you’re planning to chat with guests, you’ll need software that facilitates remote recording. Popular options include Skype, Zencastr, and Zoom (which also offers video recording). But for a comprehensive solution that’s built in — Look to Podbean
  • Group Recording on the Podbean App: The Podbean mobile app features a Group Recording tool that lets users host remote podcast sessions with up to eight co-hosts or guests. Each participant’s audio is recorded directly on their device, maintaining top-notch sound quality without relying on internet stability. Once the recording wraps up, individual audio files are automatically uploaded to the cloud, making editing and combining them easy.
  • Podbean Live Stream: Podbean’s Live Stream platform offers live audio broadcasting that supports multiple co-hosts and guests. Users can create private live sessions with exclusive access links, perfect for recordings intended for select audiences. The platform includes real-time interaction tools like a chat feature and call-in options, and recordings can be saved and turned into podcast episodes right after the session.
  • Free Audio Recording App by Podbean: Podbean’s free audio recording app streamlines the podcast creation process, from recording and editing to publishing. It supports inviting remote guests, recording high-quality audio, and securely backing up files to the cloud. The app also comes with built-in editing functions, music tracks, and seamless integration with popular podcast directories for easy distribution.
  • For editing, consider Podcastle, Adobe Audition, Audacity, or GarageBand.

Top Podcast Recording Software

• Adobe Audition: This powerhouse is our top recommendation for serious podcasters. It boasts professional-grade features, customizable templates, and a vast array of effects. While it has a learning curve and requires a paid subscription, its flexibility and power make it worth the investment.
• Audacity: This free, open-source software is a favorite among beginners and budget-conscious podcasters. It’s versatile and runs on both Mac and PC. While its interface might not be as intuitive as some paid options, it’s a solid choice for getting started.
• GarageBand: This free software comes pre-installed on Macs and is perfect for beginners. It’s easy to use, offers decent editing features, and even has a mobile app for recording on the go. However, it’s limited compared to pro-level software and is only available on Apple devices.
• Podbean: This user-friendly podcast hosting platform also offers built-in recording, editing, and analytics tools.
• Podcastle: Sometimes referred to as Podcasle, this platform allows you to record both audio and video podcasts directly from your browser or mobile app. It’s technically a free podcast recording software platform, but it is limited to 3 hours on the free tier.

Other Notable Podcast Software Options

• SquadCast: Excellent for remote interviews with high-quality audio and video recording.
• Hindenburg Journalist: A professional-grade audio editor with a focus on storytelling and narrative podcasts.
• Auphonic: An AI-powered audio post-production tool that can help you clean up and enhance your recordings.
• Reaper: A powerful and customizable digital audio workstation that can be used for podcasting but has a steeper learning curve.
• Logic Pro: Primarily a music production software, but it can also be used for podcasting if you need advanced audio editing capabilities.
• Podbean: This user-friendly podcast hosting platform also offers built-in recording, editing, and analytics tools.
• Buzzsprout, Acast, Libsyn, Spreaker, Spotify: These popular podcast hosting platforms offer varying degrees of recording and editing capabilities.

Best Mobile Podcast Recording Apps

• Podbean Recorder: Easy to use and ideal for beginners who want to record on the go.
• Podcastle: Record both audio and video podcasts on your mobile device.
• GarageBand (mobile): Ideal for Mac users who want to record on the go.
• Voice Memo App (iOS): A simple built-in option for quick recordings.
• Spreaker Studio: A feature-rich app for recording and editing on your phone.
• Ringr: Offers high-quality audio recording for interviews and conversations.

Best Podcast Software for Video

• OBS Studio: While powerful, it’s geared more towards live streaming and video production. It requires some technical know-how but is a free and versatile option.
• Zoom: It’s great for remote interviews due to its ease of use, but for high-quality podcasting, you might want to explore dedicated recording solutions.
• Snagit: Primarily a screen capture tool, it’s best used for adding visual elements or tutorials to your podcast, rather than as your primary recording software.
• Riverside.fm, SquadCast, Zencastr: These are dedicated podcast recording platforms designed for remote interviews. They offer features like separate tracks, cloud backup, and easy-to-use interfaces. Full functionality might require paid subscriptions.

Why Screen Recording Doesn’t Have Sound

Screen recordings might lack sound due to a few reasons:

1. Audio Source Not Selected: The software might not be configured to capture audio from the correct source (e.g., system sounds, microphone, or both). Double-check the settings to ensure the desired audio source is enabled and selected for recording.

2. System Audio Not Enabled: Some screen recording software requires you to specifically enable system audio recording to capture sounds playing on your computer. Look for this option in the software’s settings and make sure it’s turned on.

3. Microphone Not Working: If you’re trying to record your voice alongside the screen recording, ensure your microphone is connected, enabled, and set as the default input device in your system settings.

4. Audio Driver Issues: Outdated or incompatible audio drivers can sometimes interfere with screen recording. Check for driver updates and install them if necessary.

5. Software Limitations: The software you’re using might have limitations regarding audio recording capabilities or compatibility with specific audio formats. Refer to the software’s documentation or support resources for troubleshooting.