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Comparison · Podcast apps

Castbox vs Spotify: which is better in 2026?

Castbox79.0#5 in best podcast appsSpotify85.5#2 in best podcast apps

Spotify ranks higher in our list of podcast apps (#2 against #5, score 85.5 against 79.0).

  • 79.0
    Editorial score
    85.5
  • 2
    Platforms
    5
  • Yes
    Free to use
    Yes
  • No
    Open source
    No

Which should you choose?

Choose Castbox if you want

A large free catalog on a phone.

Free listening and downloads across a large catalog on iOS and Android, with CarPlay, Android Auto and smart speaker support. It is closed source, and its paid options are not described on its homepage.

Choose Spotify if you want

Podcasts and music in one app.

Carries podcasts alongside music on every major platform, with a free plan that includes ads. Its podcast tools are part of a music app, so dedicated listeners may find it less focused.

The main differences

  • Only Spotify runs on Windows.
  • Only Spotify runs on macOS.
  • Only Spotify runs on Web.

Side by side

CastboxSpotify
Score79.085.5
Rank in list#5 of 6#2 of 6
PriceFree plan, paid upgradesFree to listen and download on its siteFree plan, paid upgradesFree ad-supported plan; Premium is $12.99 a month in the US
Free to useYesYes
Open sourceNoNo
PlatformsiOSAndroidiOS, AndroidWebWindowsmacOSiOSAndroidWeb, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
Made byNot statedNot stated
Any RSS feedNoNo
Best forA large free catalog on a phonePodcasts and music in one app
Strengths
  • Free listening and downloads
  • Large catalog across many topics
  • Works with CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Free plan with ads for trying the service
  • Lossless audio on Premium
  • Works with car systems and smartwatches
Limits
  • Closed source, so the code cannot be checked
  • Other paid options are not described on its homepage
  • Free plan plays ads between tracks
  • Closed source, so the code cannot be checked
LinksVisit site Visit site

Questions about Castbox vs Spotify

Is Spotify better than Castbox?
Spotify ranks higher in our list of podcast apps (#2 against #5, score 85.5 against 79.0). Castbox is best for: a large free catalog on a phone. Spotify is best for: podcasts and music in one app.
Which is cheaper, Castbox or Spotify?
Castbox: Free to listen and download on its site. Spotify: Free ad-supported plan; Premium is $12.99 a month in the US.
Do Castbox and Spotify run on the same platforms?
Castbox supports iOS, Android. Spotify supports Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android.