PinePods vs Pocket Casts

PinePods is a free, self-hosted podcast server with clients that synchronize across devices. Users can subscribe to shows, search through Podcast Index and iTunes, or follow YouTube channels and receive audio-only downloads as podcasts. Listening position, settings, themes, and subscriptions sync across devices. Playback and library tools include offline downloads, video podcasts, transcripts, custom RSS feeds, OPML import and export, speed controls, and per-podcast start and end cutoffs. PinePods has its own gpodder server and also supports external gpodder servers and Nextcloud gpodder sync. Separate libraries are available for multiple users, with multi-factor authentication and OpenID Connect integration. The maker documents Docker Compose and Kubernetes deployment with Helm. User settings, podcasts, and episodes are stored in MySQL or Postgres; the database API connects web, desktop, and mobile clients, which authenticate with API keys. A public demo is available, though accounts may be deleted and are not meant for permanent use. Support requests and issue reports are directed to Discord and GitHub.

Pocket Casts is a podcast listening and discovery service from Pocket Casts, a maker founded in 2010. Listeners can search for shows, play episodes and browse recommendations curated by experts. The service supports offline downloads, video podcasts, episode transcripts, private feeds and cross-device sync. It is available on Android, iOS, macOS, web and Windows, as well as Apple TV, Apple Watch, Wear OS, CarPlay, Android Auto, Android Automotive, Sonos, Alexa and Chromecast. The free plan includes podcast listening and discovery with web and desktop access; no limits for the free offering are specified. Pocket Casts Plus adds folders, Up Next Shuffle, bookmarks, wearable apps, themes and icons. For new subscribers, Plus costs USD 3.99 per month or USD 39.99 per year. Taxes and fees may apply based on location. Support is available through the help center, forums and direct contact.