Podcasts are growing in popularity with most publications producing a variety of shows for their listening audience. To get the most out of your podcasts, you should use a dedicated podcast app to streamline your listening, make your favorite shows available offline and even discover new shows to add to your library. Below, you will find our picks for the top five podcast apps in the Google Play Store. If you have a favorite Android podcast app not on the list, please share it in the comments.
BeyondPod
BeyondPod is a full-featured podcast app with a recently redesigned user interface that makes it easy on the eyes and simple to use. The app has an extensive library of available podcasts, supports Chrome cast, and automatic downloading of podcasts in the background. The app also syncs your progress across Android devices, allowing you to listen on a smartphone and pick up right where you left off on your tablet. BeyondPod offers a free 7-day trial after which you must pay $7.99 to continue using the app.
DoggCatcher
DoggCatcher has been the favorite podcast app among Android users for years, but it hasn’t kept up with the competition in the area of design. Though its feature set is still impressive, the user interface is blocky and drab. It makes up for its old school look with a convenient auto download feature, easy delete, feed categorization and Chrome cast support. You can download DoggCatcher for $2.99 from the Google Play Store.
Stitcher Radio for Podcasts
Stitcher is best known for its Internet radio stations, but the app also includes a very capable podcast player. Unlike its competitors, Sticher allows you to select a variety of podcasts and stitch them together to form a “podcast radio station.” The app also offers top news stations so you can listen to the daily news along with your favorite podcasts. Stitcher doesn’t have a flashy, modern user interface, but its free price tag makes up for its old-style design. You can download Stitcher Radio for Podcasts for free from the Google Play Store.
Podcast Addict
Podcast Addict offers a superb listening experience by providing a library of podcasts that are both searchable and organized by network, interest and more. Besides its library, the app also allows you to import your podcast feeds from a variety of sources including RSS and Youtube channels. Chrome cast support will let you listen to your podcasts on your properly-configured entertainment center. Podcast Addict is available for free, but includes advertisements. These ads can be removed by purchasing the full version for $2.99.
Pocket Casts
Pocket Casts is a top-notch podcast app with a feature set that outshines its competition. Not only does the app feature a beautiful user interface, it also includes a large library of podcasts, support for video podcasts, and Chrome cast playback. Cross-platform users will appreciate the cloud sync that allows you to sync your listening across Android, iOS, and the web. Pocket Casts also features a widget with full playback control, auto download and playlist integration. It doesn’t get much better than this. You can download Pocket Casts for $3.99 from the Google Play Store.