The choice between audio and video podcasting depends on the content’s nature and the target audience’s preferences. Audio podcasts are ideal for storytelling, interviews and discussions, as they offer a convenient, on-the-go listening experience that requires minimal visual attention. Video podcasts are more suitable for visually engaging content, such as tutorials, demonstrations and visual storytelling, as they provide a dynamic and immersive experience, but may demand more viewer commitment and data use. Content creators should consider their objectives, production resources and audience demographics to determine whether audio or video podcasting aligns better with their goals and audience preferences. Here are some thoughts:
Audio advantages
- Wide distribution. Every portable media player, internet connected phone, desktop media software and internet connected TV device can play MP3 audio.
- Keeps it simple. Audio is much easier to create than video, reducing your production time.
- Minimal investment. You don’t need a lot of equipment to get started. You only need a simple USB headset and freeware such as Audacity.
Audio is easy to create, reaches the widest range of devices and, at minimum, requires you to purchase a headset. Audio does have a few formats you can pick from, so we recommend you read our Audio Formats page for recommendations on what format to use for your podcast.
Video advantages
- Focused distribution. Video is more likely to be consumed on a computer and in front of a TV than audio.
Video is not as easy to create as audio and requires additional steps to provide the appropriate formats to maximize your distribution to as many devices and applications as possible. We recommend you read our Video Formats page for more insights and details on the different formats.
Audio and Video
If you have the time, creating both audio and video will maximize your content’s exposure on all mediums.
IMPORTANT: Apple Podcasts works best if video podcasts are syndicated in a separate feed from your audio. If you are using Blubrry PowerPress podcasting plugin, we recommend utilizing the Podcast Channels feature to create both an audio and a video podcast feed channel.