For beginners looking to start listening to podcasts, finding the best podcast apps can help make the experience smooth and enjoyable.
The app you use impacts factors like discovering new podcasts, organizing your library, and even listening features.
In this article, we break down the 6 best podcast apps for beginners in 2023. For each app, we will cover its key features, pros and cons, and what makes it ideal for new podcast listeners.
Whether you want a simple app to get started or more advanced functions as you progress, these 6 options have you covered.
Read Also: 10 Best Websites to Download Books Online for Free
6 Best Podcast Apps For Beginners
Here are the best six podcast Apps for beginners:
1. Apple Podcasts
As its name suggests, Apple Podcasts comes preinstalled on iOS devices. It offers a straightforward entry point into podcasts for iPhone and iPad users.
Key Features
- Preinstalled on Apple devices
- Browse by categories and charts
- Library for subscribed podcasts
- Auto downloads new episodes
- Supports playback speed control
Pros
- Already on your iPhone/iPad
- Easy to navigate for beginners
- Robust library management
- Syncs with iTunes
Cons:
- Limited advanced features
- Fewer discovery options
- Less cross-device support
For new iOS podcast listeners, Apple Podcasts constitutes the obvious starting point. It provides an intuitive interface to find popular shows and manage your queue.
While light on some advanced tools, Apple Podcasts makes an ideal springboard.
2. Spotify
As the world’s most popular audio streaming platform, Spotify offers an extensive podcast library. For existing users, Spotify provides seamless access to podcasts and music in one app.
Key Features
- Huge podcast library
- Music and podcasts in one app
- Follow podcast shows
- Playlist creation
- Simplified subscription management
Pros
- Intuitive UI if you already use Spotify
- Massive podcast selection
- Syncs across devices
- Social sharing of episodes
Cons
- Fewer features for managing library
- Promotes Spotify content over others
- Poor experience for non-music listeners
Thanks to its extensive content and polished user experience, Spotify gives new podcast listeners a capable app in a familiar package.
While best for existing Spotify users, it removes hurdles to exploring podcasts.
3. Google Podcasts
As another tech giant tossing its hat into podcast apps, Google Podcasts makes it easy for Android users and Google fans to get started.
Key Features
- Preinstalled on Android devices
- Integration with Google Assistant
- Search podcasts or episodes
- Subscriptions and automatic downloads
- Cast podcasts to speakers
Pros
- Easy onboarding if you use Google services
- Simple, automatic subscriptions
- Casts to Google speakers
- Cross-device syncing
Cons
- Fewer discovery features beyond the search
- Less customization options
- Unexciting interface
While Google Podcasts lacks flair, it provides a functional starting point for Android and Google users to play podcasts across devices. Better for those new to podcasts than power users.
4. Overcast
While not as immediately familiar, Overcast offers one of the best balances of features and usability for podcast newcomers.
Key Features
- Powerful recommendation engine
- Playback speed control
- Voice boost audio enhancement
- Smart resume
- Cross-device syncing
Pros
- Intuitive interface
- Robust features helpful for beginners
- Powerful recommendations
- Multi-device support
Cons
- iOS only
- Lacks integration with larger platforms
Overcast masterfully blends advanced yet accessible tools like voice boost and smart resume with compelling recommendations. For new podcast listeners on iPhone, it’s a top choice.
Read Also: 10 Best Apps Like Snapchat You Should Try
5. Castbox
Castbox sets itself apart with a social feed of reactions to episodes, following friends and influencers, and commenting. For new listeners wanting a multimedia, interactive flavor, Castbox hits the spot.
Key Features
- Social feed
- Video and audio podcast formats
- Friends, profiles, and comments
- Playback speed controls
- Automatic download queue
Pros
- Interactive, multimedia experience
- Solid discovery and search features
- Sync across multiple devices
Cons
- Overwhelming for basic needs
- Less effective basic library management
- Some issues with reliability
Castbox brings podcasts to life with video and social engagement. While it may prove distracting for some new listeners, its unique interaction will draw others in.
6. Pocket Casts
Pocket Casts balances simplicity with just enough flair to appeal to new podcast fans. Its customization options, multi-platform support, and podcast suggestions make it a great jumping-off point.
Key Features
- Attractive, easy-to-use interface
- Audio effects and trim silence
- Dark mode
- Podcast suggestions
- Platform agnostic
Pros
- Visually appealing and intuitive
- Handy tools to start out with
- Wide device support
- Solid Suggestions
Cons
- Lacks some bells and whistles
- Fewer discovery aids beyond suggestions
- Paid web version
For new podcast listeners craving a gracefully designed app that just works across their devices, Pocket Cast provides polished delivery without overwhelming.
Read Also: 10 Best Apps Like Netflix and Amazon Prime
To Sum Up
The best podcast app for beginners provides a frictionless on-ramp to finding, subscribing, and listening to new podcasts.
While individual preferences will vary, apps like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts offer familiar starting points.
Overcast, Castbox, and Pocket Casts blend robust features, compelling discovery, and intuitive interfaces.
There are more great options than ever tailor-made for first-time podcast listeners. Based on your platform needs and style, choosing a starter podcast app can kickstart your listening habit.
Once the podcast bug bites, an exciting universe of content awaits.
RELATED POST
10 Best Apps for Learning French
Best Chess Apps for Android
10 Best Apps for Learning Languages
7 Best Apps for Editing Videos on Phone for Free
10 Best Linux Text Editors in 2023