Zencastr vs. SquadCast

The podcasting landscape has evolved dramatically over the past decade, and with it, the tools available to creators have become more sophisticated. Two platforms that consistently stand out in the remote recording space are Zencastr and SquadCast. Both promise high-quality audio, user-friendly interfaces, and features tailored to podcasters, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. In 2025, these tools have matured significantly, incorporating feedback from users and adapting to the growing demand for video podcasting alongside traditional audio. So, which one should you choose for your next episode? Let’s dive into a comprehensive review of Zencastr vs. SquadCast to find out.

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s set the stage with a quick introduction to each platform.

Zencastr: The All-in-One Podcasting Solution

Zencastr launched as a web-based audio recording platform designed to simplify remote podcasting. Over the years, it’s evolved into an all-in-one solution, offering recording, editing, hosting, and even monetization tools. It’s particularly known for its high-quality audio recording capabilities and automatic post-production features, making it a favorite among podcasters who want to streamline their workflow. Zencastr operates entirely in-browser, meaning no software downloads are required, which is a big plus for ease of use.

SquadCast: The Reliable Remote Recording Specialist

SquadCast, on the other hand, entered the scene with a laser focus on delivering studio-quality audio for remote recordings. It quickly gained a reputation for reliability and has since expanded to include video recording, positioning itself as a strong contender in the video podcasting boom. Like Zencastr, SquadCast is browser-based, emphasizing simplicity for both hosts and guests. Its standout feature is progressive cloud uploading, which ensures your recordings are safe even if a connection drops mid-session.

Both platforms aim to solve the same core problem—making remote podcasting sound professional—but they approach it with different strengths. Let’s break it down across key categories.

Audio Quality: The Heart of Podcasting

For any podcaster, audio quality is non-negotiable. A crisp, clear recording can make or break your show, especially when competing in a crowded market.

Zencastr’s Audio Prowess

Zencastr records audio locally on each participant’s device at up to 16-bit 48kHz WAV, the industry standard for high-quality podcasting. This local recording method ensures that internet hiccups don’t degrade your audio, as the files are uploaded to the cloud after the session ends. Zencastr also offers automatic post-production, a feature that enhances audio by reducing background noise, normalizing levels, and applying light compression. For podcasters short on editing time, this can be a game-changer, though some argue it’s not as precise as manual editing in a DAW (digital audio workstation) like Audacity or Adobe Audition.

However, Zencastr has faced criticism in the past for occasional audio drift—where tracks from different participants fall out of sync over long recordings. While the company claims to have resolved this issue with recent updates, it’s worth testing for longer sessions if timing precision is critical for your show.

SquadCast’s Studio-Grade Sound

SquadCast also records locally at 16-bit 48kHz WAV, matching Zencastr’s audio quality on paper. What sets SquadCast apart is its reputation for consistency. Users often praise its ability to maintain pristine audio even in less-than-ideal recording conditions, thanks to built-in echo cancellation and a focus on minimizing latency. The progressive upload feature is another feather in its cap—recordings are uploaded to the cloud in real-time, reducing the risk of losing data if a participant’s browser crashes or internet fails.

SquadCast doesn’t offer automatic post-production like Zencastr, so you’ll need to handle enhancements yourself. For audio purists who prefer full control, this isn’t a drawback, but it could add extra steps for beginners or time-strapped creators.

Verdict: Audio Quality

Both platforms deliver excellent audio, but SquadCast edges out slightly for reliability and real-time cloud backup. Zencastr’s post-production tools give it an advantage for those who want a faster turnaround, though the drift issue (if unresolved in your experience) could tip the scales back toward SquadCast.

Video Recording: The New Frontier

With video podcasts surging in popularity—think Spotify and YouTube—both Zencastr and SquadCast have adapted to include video capabilities. Here’s how they stack up.

Zencastr’s Video Evolution

Zencastr introduced video recording relatively late, rolling it out in beta a few years ago. As of 2025, it’s fully integrated, offering up to 1080p video quality (with some plans supporting 720p only). Each participant’s video is recorded locally and synced with their audio track, ensuring high fidelity. However, Zencastr’s video features feel like an add-on rather than a core focus. There’s no 4K option, and advanced video editing tools are limited, though you can trim clips during live sessions.

For podcasters who primarily need audio but want a video option as a bonus, Zencastr gets the job done. If video is your main medium, though, you might find it lacking compared to dedicated video platforms.

SquadCast’s Video Edge

SquadCast embraced video earlier and with more enthusiasm. It offers 1080p recording across all paid plans, with a strong emphasis on stability. The platform’s “Green Room” feature—a pre-recording space where participants can test their setup—extends to video, letting you ensure everyone’s camera and mic are ready before hitting record. SquadCast also supports screen sharing, a handy addition for tutorials or visual discussions.

While it doesn’t offer 4K either, SquadCast’s video feels more polished and reliable, likely due to its longer focus on this feature. Like Zencastr, editing options are basic, but the recording process is seamless.

Verdict: Video Recording

SquadCast takes the lead here with better stability and a more video-friendly experience. Zencastr’s video is functional but feels secondary to its audio roots.

User Experience: Ease for Hosts and Guests

A platform’s usability can determine whether your guests show up prepared or fumble through setup, so let’s explore this critical aspect.

Zencastr’s Simplicity

Zencastr’s interface is clean and intuitive. To start, you create an episode from the dashboard, name it, and generate a guest link. There’s no “Green Room”—you join the session directly—so you’ll need to confirm inputs and outputs beforehand. This simplicity is a double-edged sword: it’s fast for tech-savvy users but might leave less experienced guests needing guidance.

Zencastr’s live editing and soundboard features (for adding intros or effects during recording) enhance the host experience, making it feel like a mini production studio. The downside? Some advanced features have a learning curve, and occasional sync issues reported by users could disrupt workflow.

SquadCast’s Guest-Friendly Design

SquadCast shines with its “Green Room,” where participants select their gear and troubleshoot before recording begins. This reduces setup stress, especially for non-techy guests, and the browser-based link system (no sign-in required) mirrors Zencastr’s ease of access. The interface is straightforward, with a focus on reliability over extra bells and whistles.

SquadCast lacks live editing or a soundboard, so hosts looking for in-session control might feel limited. However, its stability—fewer reported drops or freezes—makes it a dependable choice.

Verdict: User Experience

SquadCast wins for guest onboarding and reliability, while Zencastr appeals to hosts who value in-session creative tools. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize guest comfort or host flexibility.

Pricing: Value for Money

Cost is a big factor, especially for indie podcasters or those scaling up. Let’s compare the plans as of March 2025 (note: prices may vary, so check the official sites for the latest).

Zencastr Pricing

Free Plan: Limited to 2 guests, 720p video, and MP3 audio (no WAV).
Creator Plan: $20/month (billed annually) for unlimited guests, 1080p video, 10 hours of post-production, and WAV audio.
Professional Plan: $45/month (billed annually) adds hosting, monetization, and unlimited post-production.

Zencastr’s free tier is generous for beginners, and the Creator plan offers solid value for growing shows. The Professional plan is pricier but competes with all-in-one platforms like Buzzsprout or Libsyn.

SquadCast Pricing

No Free Plan: A 7-day trial is available, but you’ll need to commit to a paid tier.
Audio Only: $20/month (billed annually) for 5 hours of recording, 10 participants, WAV audio.
Audio + Video: $40/month (billed annually) for 10 hours of recording, 1080p video, and extras like screen sharing.

SquadCast’s lack of a free plan might deter hobbyists, and its pricing feels steep for what’s primarily a recording tool without hosting or editing extras.

Verdict: Pricing

Zencastr offers better value with its free tier and all-in-one features, especially for budget-conscious creators. SquadCast’s higher cost makes sense only if video and reliability are your top priorities.

Additional Features: Beyond Recording

Both platforms offer unique extras that could sway your decision.

Zencastr’s Toolkit

Automatic Post-Production: Saves editing time.
Soundboard: Adds live audio effects.
Hosting & Monetization: A full podcast ecosystem.
Cloud Backup: Secure storage for all recordings.

These make Zencastr a one-stop shop, ideal for creators who want everything under one roof.

SquadCast’s Extras

Progressive Uploads: Real-time cloud saving.
Green Room: Pre-session prep.
Screen Sharing: Useful for visual content.

SquadCast keeps it lean, focusing on recording excellence rather than a broader suite.

Verdict: Features

Zencastr’s broader toolkit wins for versatility, while SquadCast excels in its core recording focus.

Reliability and Support

Nothing’s worse than losing a recording mid-interview. Both platforms have improved over time, but user experiences vary.

Zencastr’s Track Record

Zencastr has historically faced issues with drift and dropped connections, though recent updates aim to fix this. Support is responsive via email and live chat, even on the free plan, which is a plus.

SquadCast’s Stability

SquadCast boasts fewer reported issues, bolstered by progressive uploads. Support is email-only (9-5 PST), which might frustrate users needing instant help.

Verdict: Reliability

SquadCast feels more dependable, but Zencastr’s support is more accessible.

Final Thoughts

In 2025, Zencastr and SquadCast are both excellent choices, but they cater to different podcasters. Zencastr’s versatility and value make it ideal for creators seeking a comprehensive platform, while SquadCast’s reliability and video focus suit those who demand flawless recordings above all else. Test both—Zencastr’s free plan and SquadCast’s trial make it easy—to see which fits your workflow. Whichever you pick, you’re getting a tool built for the modern podcaster. Happy recording!