What is Transistor and how does it work?

Transistor is a podcast hosting and analytics platform that lets you upload, distribute, and analyze your podcast episodes. You upload your audio or video files, Transistor generates an RSS feed and distributes it to Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and other directories. It also provides detailed analytics, a podcast website, and monetization features like dynamic ad insertion and private podcast feeds.

How much does Transistor cost?

Transistor offers four plans: Starter at $19/month (20K downloads, unlimited shows), Professional at $49/month (100K downloads, dynamic ads, video), Business at $99/month (250K downloads, remove branding), and Enterprise at $199+/month. Yearly billing gives you 12 months for the price of 10. All plans include a 14-day free trial with no credit card required.

Does Transistor offer unlimited podcast hosting?

Yes. Every Transistor plan includes unlimited podcasts — you can host as many shows as you want on a single account. This is one of Transistor's strongest differentiators, as most competitors charge per show or limit you to one show on entry-level plans.

Does Transistor support video podcasting?

Yes. Transistor added native video podcast hosting in 2025. You can upload MP4 video files and distribute them to YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. Professional and Business plans include auto-publishing to YouTube, meaning your video episodes go live on YouTube without manual upload.

Can I create private podcasts with Transistor?

Absolutely. Transistor offers one of the best private podcasting features in the industry. You can create password-protected feeds for internal team communications, paid subscriber content, or exclusive member benefits. Private subscriber limits range from 50 (Starter) to unlimited (Enterprise), with integrations for Patreon, Memberful, and Supercast.

How do Transistor's analytics work?

Transistor provides IAB v2.0 certified analytics, meaning download counts are verified by the industry standard. You can see downloads by episode, geographic location, listening app, and time period. The analytics filter out bots and duplicate downloads automatically. You can also export reports as CSV for investor or sponsor decks.

Does Transistor have a free plan?

No. Transistor only offers a 14-day free trial. After the trial, you must choose a paid plan. This is different from competitors like Buzzsprout (which offers limited free hosting) and Spotify for Creators (fully free).

What integrations does Transistor support?

Transistor integrates with Zapier for workflow automation, has a full REST API for custom integrations, supports webhooks for event-driven actions, and includes compatible WordPress plugins. It is also a member of the Podcast Standards Project, supporting open podcasting standards.

Is Transistor good for businesses?

Yes. Businesses use Transistor for internal communications via private podcasts, branded external shows, training content, and thought leadership podcasts. The unlimited shows feature is especially valuable for agencies managing multiple client podcasts, and the IAB-certified analytics provide credible metrics for reporting.

How does Transistor compare to Buzzsprout?

Transistor and Buzzsprout are the top two recommended podcast hosts in 2026. Transistor wins on unlimited shows, private podcasting, and video hosting. Buzzsprout wins on beginner-friendliness, AI audio mastering (Magic Mastering), a longer free trial (90 days), and a built-in Affiliate Marketplace for finding sponsors. Both have excellent support — Transistor is more indie-oriented, Buzzsprout is more beginner-focused.

Can I switch to Transistor from another podcast host?

Yes. Transistor offers migration assistance. You can import your existing episodes via RSS feed import, and the team helps ensure your redirects are properly set up so you don't lose subscribers. The process typically takes 24-48 hours for a smooth transition.

Do I own my content on Transistor?

100%. You retain full ownership of all content you upload to Transistor. You can export your episodes and leave at any time. There are no lock-in contracts — all plans are month-to-month or annual, and you're free to cancel anytime.

Transistor Review 2026: Unlimited Shows, Video Podcasting & Indie Podcast Hosting Worth It?

Transistor Review 2026: Unlimited Shows, Video Podcasting & Indie Podcast Hosting Worth It? | Nest Digital Studio