Best Podcast Recording Software in 2026 (Remote & Local)
Great podcasts start with a great recording — no amount of editing fully fixes a bad one. The right recording software captures crisp audio (and video), keeps remote guests sounding studio-quality, and saves you hours of cleanup later. But the best choice depends entirely on how you record: solo, in-person, or with remote guests.
I tested the leading options for every setup. Here is the best podcast recording software in 2026.
Quick Comparison
| Tool | Best For | Video | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Riverside | Remote interviews (best overall) | Up to 4K | Free / $15/mo |
| Descript | Record + edit in one place | Yes | Free / $16/mo |
| Zencastr | Audio-first remote recording | Yes | Free / $20/mo |
| SquadCast | High-quality remote (in Descript) | Yes | In Descript plans |
| Audacity | Free local recording | No | Free |
1. Riverside — Best Overall (Remote Recording)
For recording remote guests, Riverside is the best tool available. It records each participant locally in up to 4K video and uncompressed audio, so a guest’s bad internet never ruins the file. You also get separate tracks per person, automatic transcription, and AI clip generation in one place.
- Local recording per participant (guest-proof quality)
- Up to 4K video, separate audio/video tracks
- Browser-based — guests just click a link
- Transcription + clips built in
Free plan available; paid from $15/month. Read our full Riverside review for the deep dive.
2. Descript — Best If You Also Want to Edit
Descript can record too — and its killer advantage is that recording, transcription, and editing all happen in one app. Record locally or remotely, then edit by editing the transcript. For solo creators who want the fewest tools possible, it is a superb all-in-one.
It is a lighter recorder than Riverside for multi-guest remote sessions, but unbeatable if editing is your priority. See our Descript review and the head-to-head Descript vs Riverside.
3. Zencastr — Best Audio-First Remote Tool
Zencastr built its name on high-quality remote audio recording, and it remains a favorite for audio-first podcasters. Like Riverside, it records participants locally for clean tracks, and it has added video, transcription, and even hosting. If your show is audio-only, Zencastr is a strong, focused choice.
- Local audio recording per guest
- Automatic post-production (leveling, noise reduction)
- Video and transcription available
- Generous free plan for audio
4. SquadCast — High-Quality Remote (Now in Descript)
SquadCast earned a loyal following for reliable, high-quality remote recording, and it is now integrated into Descript. If you are already in the Descript ecosystem, you get SquadCast’s recording strength plus Descript’s editing in one subscription — a compelling combination for interview shows that also edit heavily.
5. Audacity — Best Free Local Recording
If you record solo in one room and have zero budget, the free, open-source Audacity still does the job. It records and edits local audio with no cost and no frills. It will not help with remote guests or AI features, but for a solo podcaster with a USB mic, it is a genuine free starting point.
Pair it with a free enhancer like Adobe Podcast to clean up the sound — see our best AI tools for podcast editing guide.
Which Recording Software Should You Choose?
- Record remote guests? → Riverside (best overall)
- Want recording + editing in one? → Descript
- Audio-only show? → Zencastr
- Already use Descript? → SquadCast (built in)
- Solo & free? → Audacity
For most podcasters recording interviews, Riverside is the best choice — the local-recording reliability is worth it the moment guests are involved. Solo creators on a budget can start with Audacity and upgrade later. New to podcasting? Start with our guide to starting a podcast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What software do podcasters use to record?
For remote interviews, most use Riverside or Zencastr, which record each guest locally for studio quality. Solo podcasters often use Descript (record + edit) or free tools like Audacity.
What is the best free podcast recording software?
Audacity is the best fully free option for local recording. Riverside, Descript, and Zencastr also have free tiers (usually with limits or a watermark) that let you test remote recording before paying.
How do I record a podcast with a remote guest?
Use a tool that records each person locally, like Riverside or Zencastr. You send your guest a link, they join in the browser, and everyone is recorded in high quality regardless of internet speed. The tracks upload separately afterward.
Do I need separate recording and editing software?
Not necessarily. Descript combines both. But many creators pair a dedicated recorder (Riverside) with a dedicated editor (Descript) for the best of each. See our best AI tools for podcasters guide for a full workflow.
