Among the options available for streaming audio and video content online, two terms often used are podcasting and streaming. But what are podcasting and streaming, and what are their differences? We explain the differences between Streaming and Podcasting. For example, podcasts can be downloaded and listened to at any time, whereas streams need to be viewed in real-time, in order to be enjoyed.

Streaming audio and video content is one of the main media for online entertainment and learning. People can listen to or view content in real-time on a variety of devices, from computers and cell phones to smart TVs and game consoles.

Streaming definition

Streaming refers to the transmission of audio or video content over the Internet. When someone accesses a streaming service, the content is downloaded in a temporary buffer and played back in real-time, without the need to download or save the file. This technology is commonly used on platforms such as YouTube, Netflix, Spotify, and similar services.

The vast majority of streaming platforms also have their own way of monetizing, so if you want to turn your content into a business, enabling monetization is the first step to doing so.

Podcasting definition

Podcasting is a medium for distributing audio or video content that allows users to download and listen to program episodes at any time and place. These programs are created in audio or video file format and can be downloaded via various applications and platforms or heard online, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, among others.

Like streams, podcasts can be monetized in a number of ways, so if you want to learn how to monetize a podcast, take a look at all the articles on our website and start making money with your podcast.

Some podcast programs are also available in video format.

Differences and Similarities between Podcasting and Streaming

The main difference between streaming and podcasting is the way in which the content is accessed. In the case of streaming, content is broadcast in real-time and played directly on the device used, without the need to download or save the file on the device.

Differences

On the other hand, in podcasting can download the audio or video file to the device for later playback. Here are some other differences:

• Streaming files are transmitted in real time and are not saved on the user’s device while podcasting files can be downloaded and saved on the user’s device for later playback. There are many platforms for hosting podcasts and streams, so find the one that best suits your needs and get the first listeners for your podcast, managing to grow your business over the long term.
• Streaming refers primarily to audio and video, while podcasts can be audio, video, or a combination of the two.
• Streaming often involves live broadcasts of events such as concerts, while podcasts are generally programs recorded in a format more similar to radio.
• Streaming may require a strong, stable Internet connection for seamless transmission, while podcasts can be downloaded and played offline on the Internet.
• Podcasts generally have a more structured format, while streaming is often more informal and broadcasts live events or live radio sessions.
• Similarities between streaming and podcasting

Similarities

Although streaming and podcasting are different concepts, they also have many similarities, some of which we’d like to point out:

• Both are media for online content transmission: Streaming enables audio and video to be transmitted in real-time, while podcasting enables audio and video to be downloaded and played back at any time.
• Streaming and podcasting are useful tools for content creators and can help increase visibility and personal branding, as both platforms reach a global audience.
• In both cases, content can be delivered via a variety of platforms and devices, such as computers, cell phones, tablets, and smart TVs.
• Streaming and podcasting can be used for the distribution of educational and entertainment content. Many podcasts and live online shows focus on specific topics such as music, technology, politics, and more.
• In both cases, users can interact with the content and the creator via comments, ratings, qualifications, questions, and answers, among other means, allowing greater user interaction and participation in the online content consumption experience.

Examples of Streaming Platforms

Streaming platforms They are increasingly popular worldwide, offering a wide variety of content such as series, films, sports, documentaries, and TV shows. Get to know the 3 main streaming platforms available in Spain and their prices:

• Netflix: One of the world’s most popular platforms, it offers a wide selection of original series, films, and documentaries.
• HBO: with a wide selection of original series, including Game of Thrones, Chornobyl, Westworld, and The Story of the Maid, among others.
• Amazon Prime Video: Includes a wide variety of original series, movies, and documentaries, plus the option to rent or buy additional content.

Examples of Podcasting Platforms

There are various podcasting platforms available on the market, some more well-known and popular than others. Next, we tell you about 3 of the main podcasting platforms:

• Spotify: A very versatile platform that lets you listen to podcasts on PC, Android, iOS, video game consoles, TVs, cars, and smart speakers. What’s more, it has a wide variety of content and is easy to explore.
• Apple Podcast: the most popular podcasting platform among iOS device users. It’s easy to use, has a large catalog of content, and offers tools for discovering new podcasts.
• iVoox: a Spanish podcasting platform very popular in Spain and Latin America. It offers a wide variety of content and features useful search and recommendation tools.
• Soundcloud: a platform that lets you upload and share audio, including podcasts. It is popular with content creators and musicians and has a very active community.
• Spreaker: a podcasting platform that lets you record and broadcast live. It offers tools to improve sound quality and lets you monetize content with advertising.

Is it better to broadcast a Podcast or Download it?

The choice of whether to broadcast or download a podcast depends largely on the listener’s preferences and needs. Broadcasting a podcast means listening to it online without having to download it previously to your device, while downloading a podcast means storing a copy of the audio file on your device so you can listen to it without an internet connection.

In general terms, streaming a podcast is a practical option if you have a good internet connection and want to save space on your device, however, if you have problems with your internet connection or don’t want to depend on it to listen to your favorite podcasts, downloading them may be a better option.

It’s important to note that, for podcast creators, both options are equally important because they enable them to reach a wide audience and offer their content in an accessible way, so if you’re interested in creating a podcast, it’s advisable to upload it to different podcast hosting platforms so that listeners can access it both online and by downloading it.