Best Riverside.fm Alternatives
The rise of remote content creation has transformed how podcasters, video creators, interviewers, and businesses produce professional-grade media. Riverside.fm has emerged as a leading platform in this space, offering high-quality audio and video recording with features like local recording, 4K video, and seamless editing tools. However, it’s not the only option available. Whether you’re seeking lower costs, different features, or a platform tailored to specific needs, there are several Riverside.fm alternatives worth considering in 2025. In this article we ranked and reviewed the best riverside.fm alternatives, comparing their functionalities, pricing, and ideal use cases to help you choose the right tool for your next project.
What is the Best Riverside.fm Alternatives in 2025?
Here is my top picks for the Best Riverside.fm Alternatives for recording long distance podcast this year.
- Zencastr
- Squadcast
- Streamyard
- Cleanfeed
- Restream studio
- Zoom
- Descript
I will start with my favorite Riverside.fm Alternatives for recording long distance podcast this year.
1. Zencastr
Zencastr is a veteran in the remote recording space, originally designed for podcasters but now expanded to include video capabilities. It’s a browser-based platform that prioritizes ease of use and high-quality audio.
Key Features
- Local Recording: Like Riverside.fm, Zencastr records audio and video locally on each participant’s device, delivering up to 16-bit 48kHz WAV audio and 1080p video.
- Post-Production Tools: Automatic post-production features like noise removal, leveling, and enhancement streamline editing.
- Cloud Backup: Recordings are automatically uploaded to the cloud, with integrations for Dropbox and Google Drive.
- VoIP Option: Built-in Voice over IP for real-time communication during recording.
- Free Tier: A generous free plan offers unlimited audio-only recording (though limited to MP3 quality).
Pricing
- Free: Unlimited audio recording (MP3), 2 guests, no video.
- Hobbyist: $20/month – 1080p video, 10 hours/month, WAV audio.
- Professional: $45/month – Unlimited recording, live editing, and more.
Pros
- Simple, beginner-friendly interface.
- Free plan is great for audio-only podcasters.
- Affordable Hobbyist tier competes with Riverside.fm’s Standard plan.
Cons
- Video quality caps at 1080p (no 4K like Riverside.fm).
- Fewer live streaming features.
- Post-production tools are basic compared to competitors.
Best For
Zencastr is ideal for podcasters on a budget or those focused on audio-only content who don’t need 4K video or advanced editing.
2. SquadCast
SquadCast, now part of the Descript ecosystem, is another strong contender tailored for remote podcasting and interviews. It balances simplicity with professional-grade output.
Key Features
- High-Quality Local Recording: Records up to 48kHz audio and 4K video locally.
- Progressive Uploads: Files upload during recording, reducing the risk of data loss.
- Dolby-Enhanced Audio: Partnership with Dolby provides superior sound processing.
- Integration with Descript: Seamless editing, transcription, and overdubbing via Descript’s powerful tools.
- Guest-Friendly: No account required for guests—just send a link.
Pricing
- Free Trial: 7-day trial with full features.
- Basic: $20/month – 5 hours/month, 1080p video.
- Pro: $50/month – 12 hours/month, 4K video, advanced features.
Pros
- 4K video support matches Riverside.fm.
- Integration with Descript adds robust editing capabilities.
- Reliable progressive uploads ensure data safety.
Cons
- Higher-tier plans are pricey.
- Limited recording hours compared to unlimited options elsewhere.
- Video features lag slightly behind audio focus.
Best For
SquadCast suits creators who value Descript’s editing tools or need a reliable, guest-friendly platform with 4K video.
3. StreamYard
StreamYard is a browser-based live streaming platform that doubles as a recording tool. It’s less focused on local recording but excels at real-time engagement.
Key Features
- Live Streaming: Broadcast to YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, and more simultaneously.
- Recording Option: Record sessions in up to 1080p (cloud-based, not local).
- Customization: Add overlays, backgrounds, and branding with ease.
- Multi-Participant Support: Up to 10 on-screen participants.
- No Software Download: Runs entirely in-browser.
Pricing
- Free: 20 minutes of recording, basic streaming, StreamYard branding.
- Basic: $20/month – 4 hours of recording, 1080p, no branding.
- Professional: $39/month – 10 hours, advanced streaming features.
Pros
- Excellent for live streaming and audience interaction.
- Intuitive interface with no learning curve.
- Affordable for casual creators.
Cons
- No local recording—quality depends on internet stability.
- Maxes out at 1080p, no 4K option.
- Lacks separate audio/video tracks for editing.
Best For
StreamYard is perfect for creators prioritizing live streaming over pristine, editable recordings—think webinars or live podcasts.
4. Cleanfeed
Cleanfeed is a lesser-known gem focused on audio-only recording, offering studio-quality sound without the complexity of video.
Key Features
- High-Quality Audio: Records uncompressed audio (up to 48kHz) locally.
- Browser-Based: No downloads or plugins required.
- Real-Time Collaboration: Low-latency VoIP for live communication.
- Multi-Track Recording: Separate tracks for each participant.
- Free Plan: Unlimited use with basic features.
Pricing
- Free: Unlimited audio recording, basic features.
- Pro: $22/month – Multi-track recording, higher quality.
- Studio: $40/month – Advanced controls, priority support.
Pros
- Completely free tier for basic needs.
- Exceptional audio quality for the price.
- Simple and lightweight.
Cons
- No video recording.
- Limited editing or post-production tools.
- Niche focus may not suit multimedia creators.
Best For
Cleanfeed is a top pick for audio-only podcasters or radio producers seeking a free or low-cost solution.
5. Restream Studio
Restream Studio is another live streaming-first platform that offers recording capabilities, competing with StreamYard but with broader platform reach.
Key Features
- Multi-Platform Streaming: Stream to 30+ platforms simultaneously.
- Recording: Up to 1080p cloud recordings.
- Guest Invitations: Easy link-based guest access.
- Engagement Tools: Chat integration, on-screen comments.
- Analytics: Track audience performance post-stream.
Pricing
- Free: Basic streaming, limited recording.
- Standard: $16/month – 6 hours of recording, 720p.
- Professional: $41/month – 10 hours, 1080p, advanced features.
Pros
- Affordable entry-level plan.
- Wide streaming compatibility.
- Great for audience engagement.
Cons
- No local recording.
- Caps at 1080p.
- Less focus on post-production.
Best For
Restream Studio is ideal for creators focused on live multi-platform broadcasts with moderate recording needs.
6. Zoom (with Enhancements)
Zoom, the ubiquitous video conferencing tool, doubles as a recording platform with the right setup. While not designed for podcasting, it’s a viable alternative with tweaks.
Key Features
- Local Recording: Record audio and video locally (with paid plans).
- Separate Audio Tracks: Available in higher tiers for editing flexibility.
- Cloud Storage: Optional cloud backups.
- Wide Accessibility: Nearly everyone knows how to use it.
- Third-Party Add-Ons: Pair with tools like Ecamm or OBS for enhanced quality.
Pricing
- Free: 40-minute limit, no separate tracks.
- Pro: $15/month – Unlimited meetings, local recording.
- Business: $20/month – Separate audio tracks, cloud storage.
Pros
- Affordable and widely available.
- Familiar interface reduces setup time.
- Flexible with add-ons.
Cons
- Video quality tops at 1080p, often compressed.
- Audio quality lags behind dedicated tools.
- Requires workarounds for professional use.
Best For
Zoom works for budget-conscious creators or teams already using it, willing to enhance it with external tools.
7. Descript
While primarily an editing tool, Descript now offers recording capabilities through its SquadCast integration, making it a full-cycle solution.
Key Features
- Local Recording: Up to 4K video and 48kHz audio.
- Text-Based Editing: Edit recordings by editing transcripts.
- Overdub: AI-generated voice cloning for fixes.
- Collaboration: Real-time team editing.
- Transcription: Industry-leading accuracy.
Pricing
- Free: Basic editing, limited recording.
- Creator: $12/month – 10 hours of transcription, basic recording.
- Pro: $24/month – 30 hours, advanced features.
Pros
- Unmatched editing power.
- Affordable for combined recording and editing.
- 4K video support.
Cons
- Recording features are secondary to editing.
- Learning curve for new users.
- Limited live streaming.
Best For
Descript is best for creators who want an all-in-one tool for recording and post-production, especially with text-based workflows.
Comparison Table
| Platform | Local Recording | Max Video Quality | Free Tier | Starting Price | Best For |
| Riverside.fm | Yes | 4K | No | $19/month | High-quality podcasts |
| Zencastr | Yes | 1080p | Yes | $20/month | Audio-first creators |
| SquadCast | Yes | 4K | No | $20/month | Descript users |
| StreamYard | No | 1080p | Yes | $20/month | Live streamers |
| Cleanfeed | Yes | N/A (audio only) | Yes | $22/month | Audio-only podcasters |
| Restream Studio | No | 1080p | Yes | $16/month | Multi-platform streaming |
| Zoom | Yes | 1080p | Yes | $15/month | Budget teams |
| Descript | Yes | 4K | Yes | $12/month | Editing-focused creators |
Final Thoughts
Riverside.fm remains a powerhouse for remote recording, but its alternatives cater to a wide range of needs in 2025. Zencastr and Cleanfeed offer budget-friendly audio solutions, SquadCast and Descript bring editing prowess, while StreamYard and Restream Studio dominate live streaming. Zoom provides a familiar fallback, enhanced by third-party tools. Evaluate your project’s scope—audio vs. video, live vs. pre-recorded, budget vs. quality—and test a few free tiers or trials. The perfect tool is out there, ready to elevate your next recording.
