Side by side
Apple Podcasts vs Pocket Casts
Both stand on podcast apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Apple Podcasts offers free listening alongside optional paid subscriptions, with downloads, transcripts, and broad device support. Listeners should check language availability for transcripts and the terms of any creator-priced subscription.
Visit Apple Podcasts
Choose Pocket Casts if you want podcast listening and discovery across a broad range of devices, with offline downloads and cross-device sync. Plus may suit listeners who want its extra organization and personalization features; the free plan provides listening and discovery with web and desktop access.
Visit Pocket CastsThe facts
| Apple Podcasts | Pocket Casts | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | iPhone, Mac, Web, Windows | Android, iPhone, Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Pocket Casts Plus Yearly: $39.99 a year |
| Plans published | 2 | 4 |
| Maker | Apple Podcasts | Pocket Casts |
| Website | apple.com | pocketcasts.com |
| On podcast apps | #1 of 55 | #2 of 55 |
Apple Podcasts: what it does well
- Millions of shows are free.
- Episodes can be downloaded for offline playback.
- Syncs across devices and supports private feeds.
- Family Sharing covers up to five people.
- Creators receive other podcast revenue, including advertising.
What to know first
- Transcript support is limited to select languages.
- Premium subscriptions have creator-set prices.
- Cancellation must be at least one day before renewal to avoid renewal.
Pocket Casts: what it does well
- Free plan includes podcast listening and discovery.
- Supports offline downloads, video podcasts and episode transcripts.
- Private feed support and cross-device sync are available.
- Works across mobile, web, desktop, watches, speakers and car players.
- Plus includes folders, bookmarks, themes and wearable apps.
What to know first
- Plus costs USD 3.99 per month for new monthly subscribers.
- The yearly Plus plan costs USD 39.99 per year for new subscribers.
- Taxes and fees may be added based on subscriber location.
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