Buzzsprout vs Captivate
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
Podcast hosting made simple.
The verdict
Both Buzzsprout and Captivate are credible podcast tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose Buzzsprout if you want a lower starting price (free – $18/mo) and a free plan to start on. Podcast hosting made simple.
Choose Captivate if you'd rather have a longer free trial (7 days). Growth-oriented podcast hosting.
Buzzsprout vs Captivate: side by side
| Dimension | Buzzsprout | Captivate |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free – $18/moWinner | From $19/mo |
| Free plan | YesWinner | No |
| Free trial | — | 7 daysWinner |
| Pricing model | Freemium | Subscription |
| Best for | Podcasters, Beginners | Podcasters, Marketers |
| Platforms | Web, Ios, Android | Web, Ios, Android |
| Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.6/5 |
Buzzsprout key facts
- Vendor
- Buzzsprout
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $18/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Podcasters, Beginners
- Editor rating
- 4.7 / 5
- Founded
- 2009
- Headquarters
- Twinsburg, Ohio
Captivate key facts
- Vendor
- Captivate
- Pricing
- Subscription — From $19/mo
- Free tier
- Free trial (7 days)
- Platforms
- Web, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Podcasters, Marketers
- Editor rating
- 4.6 / 5
- Founded
- 2019
- Headquarters
- Lichfield, UK
Frequently asked questions
Is Buzzsprout better than Captivate?
Neither is universally better — Buzzsprout edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Buzzsprout or Captivate cheaper?
Buzzsprout is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free – $18/mo. Buzzsprout starts at free – $18/mo; Captivate starts at from $19/mo.
Can Buzzsprout replace Captivate?
Yes for most teams — both are podcast tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.