Zencastr Review

Podcasting has exploded in popularity over the past decade, evolving from a niche hobby to a mainstream medium for storytelling, education, and entertainment. With this growth comes an increasing demand for tools that simplify the recording, editing, and distribution process—especially for creators working remotely. Enter Zencastr, a web-based platform that has positioned itself as an all-in-one solution for podcasters since its inception in 2014. But in 2025, with a crowded market of competitors like Riverside.fm, SquadCast, and Podcastle, does Zencastr still hold its own? In this  review, we’ll dive deep into what Zencastr offers, how it performs, and whether it’s the right choice for your podcasting needs.

What Is Zencastr?

Zencastr is a cloud-based podcasting platform designed to make high-quality audio and video recording accessible to everyone, regardless of location or technical expertise. Founded by Josh Nielsen and Adrian Lopez, Zencastr was born out of a frustration with the complexities of remote recording. Their mission? To deliver studio-quality sound without the need for expensive equipment or in-person sessions. Over the years, Zencastr has evolved from a simple recording tool into a robust platform that also includes editing, hosting, and monetization features—all accessible through a web browser.

Unlike traditional recording setups that require physical studios or complex software, Zencastr operates entirely online. It records each participant’s audio and video locally on their device, then uploads the files to the cloud for seamless integration. This approach ensures pristine quality, even if someone’s internet connection falters during a session. Whether you’re a solo creator, a team of co-hosts, or an interviewer with global guests, Zencastr promises to streamline your workflow. But does it deliver on that promise? Let’s break it down.

Key Features of Zencastr

Zencastr’s feature set has expanded significantly since its early days, making it a contender for the title of “all-in-one podcasting platform.” Here’s a closer look at what it offers in 2025:

1. Studio-Quality Audio and Video Recording
   • Zencastr records audio in 16-bit 48k WAV format, a lossless standard that ensures crystal-clear sound. Video recording supports up to 4K resolution, making it ideal for podcasters who share content on YouTube or social media. Each participant’s track is captured locally, avoiding the compression and glitches common in tools like Zoom or Skype.
2. Separate Tracks for Each Participant
   • One of Zencastr’s standout features is its ability to record individual audio and video tracks for every participant. This makes post-production a breeze, allowing you to edit out coughs, interruptions, or background noise without affecting the entire recording.
3. Cloud Backup and Redundancy
   • Recordings are automatically backed up locally and synced to the cloud, providing peace of mind. Even if a session crashes or the internet drops, your work is safe. Zencastr integrates with Dropbox and Google Drive for additional storage options.
4. Automatic Post-Production
   • Zencastr’s “Produce” feature takes the grunt work out of editing. It mixes separate tracks into a single file, balances audio levels, removes background noise, and syncs everything—all with a few clicks. While not as robust as dedicated editing software like Audacity or Adobe Audition, it’s a time-saver for beginners or those on tight schedules.
5. Live Soundboard
   • During recording, you can trigger intros, outros, ads, or sound effects in real time using Zencastr’s cloud-based soundboard. This adds a professional polish to live sessions without requiring post-editing.
6. Guest-Friendly Interface
   • Inviting guests is as simple as sending a link. They don’t need to download software or create an account—just click, join, and record. This eliminates friction and makes Zencastr a favorite for interviewing busy professionals or non-tech-savvy guests.
7. Hosting and Monetization
   • Zencastr now offers podcast hosting and a monetization network, allowing creators to distribute episodes and earn revenue through ads or subscriptions. This integration reduces the need for third-party services like Libsyn or Podbean.
8. Video and VoIP Enhancements
   • Beyond recording, Zencastr includes an encrypted VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) call feature, letting participants hear and see each other in real time. Video layouts can be customized, enhancing the visual experience for video podcasts.

Pricing Plans in 2025

Zencastr’s pricing structure caters to a range of users, from hobbyists to professionals. In  2025, here’s how it breaks down:

• Free Plan (Hobbyist):
  • Cost: $0
  • Features: Unlimited guests, MP3 audio recording (not WAV), 8 hours of recording per month, basic video recording, and pay-per-use post-production.
  • Best for: Beginners or casual podcasters testing the waters.
• Professional Plan:
  • Cost: $18/month (annual billing) or $20/month (monthly billing)
  • Features: Unlimited guests and recording time, 16-bit 48k WAV audio, 4K video, 10 hours of automatic post-production per month, live soundboard, and hosting for one podcast.
  • Best for: Serious podcasters who need high-quality output and flexibility.
• Growth Plan:
  • Cost: $45/month (annual billing) or $50/month (monthly billing)
  • Features: Everything in Professional, plus unlimited post-production, advanced hosting for multiple shows, monetization tools, and priority support.
  • Best for: Established creators or businesses scaling their podcasting efforts.
• Custom Plans:
  • Cost: Varies
  • Features: Tailored solutions for enterprises, educational institutions, or non-profits, with flexible features and support.
  • Best for: Organizations with specific needs.

Zencastr occasionally offers discounts (e.g., 20% off with codes like “WELCOME”), so it’s worth checking their site for promotions. Compared to competitors like Riverside.fm ($19-$39/month) or SquadCast ($20-$49/month), Zencastr’s pricing is competitive, especially with the free tier’s generous offerings.

User Experience: How Easy Is Zencastr to Use?

Zencastr’s web-based design eliminates the need for software downloads, making it accessible on any device with a browser—Windows, Mac, Linux, or even a Chromebook. Setting up a session is straightforward: log in, create a new episode, name it, and invite participants via a shareable link. Before recording, Zencastr runs a quick health check to ensure your microphone, speakers, and storage are ready.

The recording interface is clean and intuitive. Your track appears at the top, with guests’ tracks below, each accompanied by a waveform for visual monitoring. Buttons for muting, flagging moments (with a hand icon), and triggering soundboard clips are easily accessible. Guests see a simplified version, reducing confusion. Post-recording, files are uploaded to the cloud, and the “Produce” feature delivers a polished mix in minutes.

However, the experience isn’t flawless. Some users report occasional login issues or browser compatibility hiccups (Safari support remains spotty). Video recording, while improved, can strain older devices, and the interface—though functional—lacks the sleek polish of Riverside.fm. Still, for most users, Zencastr strikes a solid balance between simplicity and power.

Strengths of Zencastr

1. Audio Quality: The local recording approach delivers exceptional sound, rivaling in-person setups. For audio-first podcasters, this is a game-changer.
2. Ease of Use: From setup to guest invites, Zencastr minimizes technical barriers, making it ideal for beginners and pros alike.
3. All-in-One Potential: With recording, editing, hosting, and monetization under one roof, it reduces reliance on multiple tools.
4. Reliability: Cloud backups and local redundancy mean you’re unlikely to lose a session, even in shaky conditions.
5. Value: The free plan is robust, and paid tiers offer competitive features for the price.

Weaknesses of Zencastr

1. Video Lag: While 4K recording is a plus, the video experience isn’t as seamless as dedicated platforms like Riverside.fm, with occasional sync issues or lag on weaker connections.
2. Editing Limitations: The automatic post-production is handy but lacks the precision of standalone editors. Serious editors will still need external software.
3. Customer Support: Response times can be slow, especially on lower tiers, and live support is limited compared to competitors.
4. Browser Dependency: No native app means you’re tied to a browser, which can frustrate users on unstable networks or incompatible systems.
5. Learning Curve for Advanced Features: Hosting and monetization tools, while powerful, require some exploration to master.

How Does Zencastr Compare to Competitors?

• Riverside.fm: Riverside edges out Zencastr in video quality and live streaming, with a more modern interface. However, Zencastr’s free plan is more generous, and its audio focus remains unmatched.
• SquadCast: SquadCast offers similar audio quality and ease of use but lacks Zencastr’s hosting and monetization features. It’s a simpler, recording-only alternative.
• Podcastle: Podcastle’s AI-powered editing and text-to-speech tools cater to creators wanting more production options, but its recording quality doesn’t quite match Zencastr’s.
• Zoom: While Zoom is great for meetings, its compressed audio and lack of separate tracks make it a poor substitute for dedicated podcasting.

Zencastr shines for audio-focused podcasters who value simplicity and quality over flashy video or advanced editing. If you prioritize video or need extensive post-production, you might pair Zencastr with other tools or opt for a competitor.

Who Should Use Zencastr?

• Beginners: The free plan and intuitive design make it perfect for those new to podcasting.
• Remote Teams: Separate tracks and guest-friendly access suit co-hosts or interviewers spread across the globe.
• Budget-Conscious Creators: Affordable pricing and all-in-one features reduce costs compared to piecing together multiple services.
• Audio Purists: If sound quality is your top priority, Zencastr delivers.

It’s less ideal for video-heavy podcasters, advanced editors, or those needing real-time customer support.

Final Thoughts: Is Zencastr Worth It in 2025?

After exploring Zencastr’s features, pricing, and performance, it’s clear why it’s been a staple in the podcasting world since 2016. Its commitment to high-quality audio, ease of use, and evolving all-in-one capabilities make it a strong contender in 2025. The free plan is a fantastic entry point, while the Professional and Growth tiers offer enough firepower for serious creators without breaking the bank.

That said, Zencastr isn’t perfect. Video recording, while improved, lags behind competitors, and its editing tools won’t satisfy perfectionists. Customer support could also use a boost. Yet, for podcasters who prioritize audio excellence and a streamlined workflow, Zencastr remains a top choice. It’s not the flashiest platform, but it gets the job done—and does it well.

If you’re on the fence, start with the free plan. Record a few episodes, test the waters, and see if it fits your style. In a market full of options, Zencastr’s reliability and quality make it a worthy companion for your podcasting journey in 2025.