Skip to content

Gumlet vs Castr: Which is Better in 2026?

Choosing between Gumlet and Castr 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.

Bottom line: Gumlet is our overall pick for video hosting workflows. Pick Castr if you need live streaming.

··Methodology
Editor reviewed0 verified reviews comparedPricing checked Jun 2026

Short on time? Here's the quick answer

We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:

Gumlet

Smarter hosting and optimization for all your videos and images.

Best for you if:

  • • You want to try before committing
  • • You need video hosting features specifically
  • Hosts, protects, and publishes videos with enterprise-grade security.
  • Automates image optimization to improve website performance and reduce costs.

Castr

The complete video infrastructure for live streaming, video hosting, and OTT solutions.

Best for you if:

  • • You need live streaming features specifically
  • Comprehensive platform for live streaming, VOD, and OTT.
  • Enterprise-grade infrastructure with multi-CDN for global delivery and 99.9% uptime.
At a Glance
GumletGumlet
CastrCastr
Starts at
FreeFree tier available
$12.5/moStarter
Best For
Video HostingLive Streaming
Rating
4.8/54.7/5

Choose Gumlet or Castr?

Gumlet

Choose Gumlet if

Smarter hosting and optimization for all your videos and images.

  • Combines video hosting and image optimization in one platform.
  • Offers robust security features for video content, including DRM.
  • Utilizes AI for efficient video compression and marketing tools.
  • Your work is video hosting-shaped, not live streaming-shaped
Castr

Choose Castr if

The complete video infrastructure for live streaming, video hosting, and OTT solutions.

  • Enterprise-grade infrastructure with multi-CDN for reliable global delivery.
  • Transparent and cost-effective pricing without hidden fees.
  • 24/7 dedicated technical support via Slack and WhatsApp.
  • Your work is live streaming-shaped, not video hosting-shaped
FeatureGumletCastr
Pricing ModelFreemiumPaid
User Rating
4.8/5
555 reviews
4.7/5
444 reviews
Categories
Video HostingVideo Compression
Live StreamingVideo Hosting

In-Depth Analysis

GumletGumlet

Smarter hosting and optimization for all your videos and images.

Strengths

  • +Combines video hosting and image optimization in one platform.
  • +Offers robust security features for video content, including DRM.
  • +Utilizes AI for efficient video compression and marketing tools.
  • +Provides APIs for custom development and integration.
  • +Focuses on performance, scalability, and reducing carbon footprint.

Weaknesses

  • -Specific pricing details are not directly available on the main page, requiring a visit to a separate pricing page.
  • -The breadth of features might have a learning curve for new users.
  • -Detailed information on specific integrations with other platforms is not immediately apparent.

Key features

Video Hosting and PublishingEnterprise-grade Video Security (DRM, password locks, geo-blocks, watermarks)AI-powered Video Marketing Tools (subtitles, CTAs, forms, chapters)Automated Image Optimization and DeliveryVideo APIs for DevelopersAI-powered Video Compression and Transcoding
Starts at Free

CastrCastr

The complete video infrastructure for live streaming, video hosting, and OTT solutions.

Strengths

  • +Enterprise-grade infrastructure with multi-CDN for reliable global delivery.
  • +Transparent and cost-effective pricing without hidden fees.
  • +24/7 dedicated technical support via Slack and WhatsApp.
  • +Easy integration and setup with existing systems like OBS and ATEM.
  • +Comprehensive feature set covering live streaming, VOD, and OTT needs.

Weaknesses

  • -No explicit mention of a free tier, suggesting it's a paid-only service.
  • -The extensive feature set might have a learning curve for new users.
  • -Specific pricing details are not available on the provided pages, requiring a "contact sales" or trial approach.

Key features

Multi CDN (Akamai, Fastly, CloudFront)Cloud Production (switching, overlays, transitions, multi-source input)24/7 Playout Scheduling with Ad InsertionWhite-label OTT Apps (Web, iOS, Android, TV)Video Monetization (Paywall, SSAI, Ad Insertion, 30+ Payment Gateways)Advanced Transcoding (H.265 to H.264, watermarking, bitrate customization)
Starts at $12.5/mo

Pricing: Gumlet vs Castr

PlanGumletCastr
Tier 1
Free
Free
On Request
Custom Plan
Tier 2
$10/month
Starter
$12.5 /month
Starter
Tier 3
$25/month
Pro
$33.5 /month
Standard
Tier 4N/A
$62.5 /month
Professional
Tier 5N/A
$104.5 /month
Premium
Tier 6N/A
$250 /month
Ultra

Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Gumlet pricing and Castr pricing.

Who Should Use What?

On a budget?

Gumlet has a free tier. Castr is paid only.

Go with: Gumlet

Want the highest-rated option?

Gumlet: 4.8/5 (555 reviews). Castr: 4.7/5 (444 reviews).

Go with: Gumlet

Value user reviews?

Gumlet: 555 reviews (4.8/5). Castr: 444 reviews (4.7/5).

Go with: Gumlet

3 Questions to Help You Decide

1

What's your budget?

Gumlet is freemium. Castr is paid. Gumlet lets you start free.

2

What's your use case?

Gumlet is a video hosting tool. Castr is in live streaming. Pick the category that matches your needs.

3

How important are ratings?

Gumlet is rated higher: 4.8/5 vs 4.7/5.

Key Takeaways

Gumlet

  • Higher user rating: 4.8/5 vs 4.7/5
  • Larger review base (555 reviews)
  • Free tier available
  • Our pick for this comparison

Castr

  • Better fit for live streaming

The Bottom Line

Gumlet is our pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gumlet or Castr better?

Gumlet is rated in our evaluation. Gumlet is freemium and Castr is paid.

What are Gumlet and Castr used for?

Gumlet: Smarter hosting and optimization for all your videos and images.. Castr: The complete video infrastructure for live streaming, video hosting, and OTT solutions..

What does Gumlet cost vs Castr?

Gumlet is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Castr is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.

Related Comparisons & Resources

Compare other tools