Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) vs Captivate FM: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) and Captivate FM comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters)
Free podcast hosting
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.0/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • Anchor is a free podcast creation platform owned by Spotify for recording, hosting, and distribution
- • It enables recording from any device, automatic distribution to all major platforms, and monetization
Captivate FM
Professional podcast hosting to create, grow, and monetize unlimited podcasts with advanced tools.
Best for you if:
- • Unlimited podcast hosting with advanced analytics and distribution.
- • Tools for monetization, marketing, and workflow automation, including AI assistance.
| At a Glance |  Captivate FM | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Podcast Hosting | Podcast Hosting |
Rating | 80/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) | Captivate FM |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 80 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Podcast HostingAudio Editing | Podcast HostingPodcasting Tools |
Understanding the Differences
Both Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) and Captivate FM solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) positions itself as "free podcast hosting" while Captivate FMfocuses on "professional podcast hosting to create, grow, and monetize unlimited podcasts with advanced tools.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters)
Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) makes sense if you're looking for a completely free solution. With a score of 80/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Captivate FM
Captivate FM is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters)
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters)
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Captivate FM takes enterprise seriously.
We'd pick: Captivate FM
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Nothing at all? Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) is completely free.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) higher (80/100). But the community has upvoted Captivate FM more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) Does Better
- Higher overall score (80/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Captivate FM If
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) (80/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) scores higher in our analysis, but Captivate FM might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) or Captivate FM better?
Based on our analysis, Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) scores higher with 80/100. Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) isfree while Captivate FM is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) to Captivate FM easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) and Captivate FM offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) is completely free.Captivate FM is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.