Captivate vs Simplecast: Podcast Hosting Comparison (2026)

Captivate and Simplecast both offer podcast hosting with unlimited storage and uploads, but they differ in pricing structure, specific features, and support options.

AI Citation Scorecard

How often each is cited by major AI engines when buyers ask podcast hosting questions. Last 90 days across ChatGPT, Perplexity, Gemini, Claude, and Copilot.

Too early to call — probes still building data.
ChatGPT
Captivate
Tracking…
No data yet
Simplecast
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No data yet
Perplexity
Captivate
Tracking…
No data yet
Simplecast
Tracking…
No data yet
Gemini
Captivate
Tracking…
No data yet
Simplecast
Tracking…
No data yet
Claude
Captivate
Tracking…
No data yet
Simplecast
Tracking…
No data yet
Copilot
Captivate
Tracking…
No data yet
Simplecast
Tracking…
No data yet
Scale:NoneLowFairStrongExcellent

Probes run hourly; each (engine × query) combo retests every ~3 days.

Pricing

Captivate
Starting price
$17/user/month
Free tier
captivate.fm
Simplecast
Starting price
$15/mo
Free tier
simplecast.com

Key Features

Captivate
  • Unlimited Podcasts
  • Unlimited Uploads/Storage
  • Extensive Distribution List
  • IAB certified analytics
  • Podcast Promotion
  • Dynamic content insertion
  • Private podcasting
  • Podcast Website
Simplecast
  • Unlimited storage & uploads
  • Customizable show website
  • Manage multiple shows
  • Dynamic ad insertion
  • Comprehensive reporting suite
  • Flexible ad marking at episode level
  • Email support
  • Priority customer support

When to choose Captivate

Captivate is suitable for users who require unlimited podcasts, private podcasting, and dynamic content insertion. It also offers specific podcast promotional tools and a podcast website. Captivate also highlights its IAB certified analytics.

When to choose Simplecast

Simplecast is suitable for users who prioritize managing multiple shows, dynamic ad insertion, and detailed reporting. Simplecast also offers flexible ad marking at the episode level. Simplecast emphasizes its comprehensive reporting suite and specific ad insertion features.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting price for Captivate?
Captivate's starting price is $17/user/month.
What is the starting price for Simplecast?
Simplecast's starting price is $15/month.
Do Captivate or Simplecast offer a free tier?
Neither Captivate nor Simplecast offer a free tier.
What features are unique to Captivate?
Captivate offers unlimited podcasts, private podcasting, dynamic content insertion, a podcast website, and IAB certified analytics. It also includes an extensive distribution list and podcast promotion features.
What features are unique to Simplecast?
Simplecast offers the ability to manage multiple shows, dynamic ad insertion, flexible ad marking at the episode level, a customizable show website, and a comprehensive reporting suite.

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