Acast vs Buzzsprout

Acast is a podcasting platform and content management system for publishing, distributing and monetizing shows. One-click publishing sends episodes to Spotify and Apple Podcasts, with distribution to major podcast directories. Tools include episode scheduling, automated ad placement, bulk editing, dynamic intros and outros, and management of multiple shows. Advanced analytics cover downloads, listener geography, listening platforms, engagement and revenue. Creators can also make a customizable podcast website and web player, and create video clips for social sharing. The Starter plan is limited to one show and five episodes; unlimited episodes are available when a show joins Acast’s advertising marketplace. Acast has a free plan, with Essential at $14.99 per month billed yearly, Pro at $29.99 per month billed yearly, and Video at $39.99 per month billed yearly. Apple Podcasts video publishing is a limited beta for selected creators. Acast was founded in 2014 and is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden.

Buzzsprout hosts and distributes audio and video podcast episodes. It provides an RSS feed, distribution to major directories, and analytics that filter bots and duplicate requests; its podcast statistics are IAB 2.2 Certified. Video podcasts can be sent to Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Monetization options include subscriptions, advertising, dynamic content, and listener payments, while automatic transcripts support accessibility and SEO. Podcast websites include transcripts, an RSS feed, directory links, and custom URLs. Mobile apps are available for managing a podcast. The free service lasts 90 days and allows two hours of content per cycle. Free episodes are hosted for 90 days, then held in a safety net for another 90 days before permanent removal. Audio costs $18 a month for six hours monthly; Audio + Video costs $30 a month for six hours monthly. On those plans, extra hours cost $2 per hour and are added to the next invoice. Annual plans do not permit additional hours. Buzzsprout was founded in 2009 and is based in Jacksonville, Florida.