There are several good reasons for recording your podcast on your smartphone or tablet device. You may not have the budget for a fancy studio (yet!), you’re new and just starting, or you’re an established podcast but need to record an interview or supplemental audio outside of the studio. With the right app, it’s remarkably easy to record, edit, and publish a podcast directly from your phone or tablet.
Side note on microphones: While it’s true that today’s smartphone and tablet microphone technology has come a long way, we still recommend that you invest in a high-quality microphone that works with your device. You want to deliver the best production value you can on the go, and your audience will be grateful! You can check out some top external microphones for iOS and Android. Another excellent investment that won’t steer you wrong is a lavalier microphone (they clip to the speaker’s shirt).
Once you have your microphone figured out, it’s time to choose a podcast recording app. Here are our top picks.
Anchor
Available on web, iOS, and Android
Anchor is an all-in-one platform that allows users to create, distribute, and monetize your podcast from any device. On a mission to democratize audio and make sure podcasting is accessible to everyone on the planet, this platform is free to use for their creators. Features include:
- Voice message importing
- Group chat
- Music importing from Spotify
- Transitions
- Background tasks
- Sound effects
- Upload your completed podcast to iTunes or Google Play
Anchor’s mobile app is ideal for podcasters who want to record solo or small group sessions on the fly, with little-or-no post-production. Used at its most basic level, it reminds us of some early audioblogging tools. However, you can still run a very polished production through it’s Spotify-backed network.
Podbean
Available on web, iOS, and Android
Podbean offers unlimited hosting at an affordable price (from $0-$99/month). Recording is straightforward, with basic trim editing available, and the app provides pre-loaded music you can use for intros, outros, and background music. You also have the option to use the app to record and then upload it to other hosting platforms.
Spreaker
Available on web, iOS, and Android
Spreaker is a comprehensive podcasting tool that allows you to record, edit, and publish your podcast all from your mobile device. Their app offers a robust set of features that many podcasters enjoy, including a full virtual studio user interface and editable soundboard functionality. They’re also unique in that you can broadcast your podcast live. Their pricing ranges from free to $41/month, depending on the plan you opt for.
Bonus: RINGR
Not a podcast hosting platform, but an excellent tool for conducting very high-quality phone interviews for your podcast. RINGR lets you deliver crystal-clear podcast and broadcasting interviews with their technology. You can sound like you’re in the same room, even if you’re talking to someone on the other side of the world! If your content includes interviews, you may want to consider checking them out.
Have you made a podcast on your smartphone or tablet? How did it work for you? Let us know!