Best 11 Riverside Alternatives 2025 : Our Personal Picks

Quick Summary

The article explores the top alternatives to Riverside.fm, a podcast and video recording tool, highlighting options for users who seek better pricing, functionality, or user experience. It reviews 11 tools, comparing their features, reliability, and ease of use, to help podcasters and content creators find the ideal platform for their needs.

From multistreaming solutions like StreamYard and Restream to studio-quality recording platforms like SquadCast and Remotely, the list covers tools for live streaming, remote interviews, and professional-quality audio and video production.

This comprehensive guide aims to help you make an informed decision for your content creation goals.

Looking for the Perfect Alternative to Riverside?

Riverside.fm is a popular tool that lets podcasters record studio-quality video and audio remotely. But, like most tools, it has flaws that push users to seek alternatives.

In this Cleanvoice guide, we’ll look in-depth at the top Riverside alternatives. We’ll explore their features, quality, and how user-friendly they are so that you can make the right call.

Let’s dive in.

What Is Riverside?

Riverside is an online platform that allows you to record podcasts and video interviews.

It records you and your guests locally (bypassing unstable internet connections) and guarantees high-quality audio and video. It also supports separate audio and video tracks for each guest to simplify post-production and audio cleanup.

Why Look For a Riverside Alternative?

Below are a few reasons why you should look for a Riverside alternative:

• Pricing:

Riverside may be too expensive for podcasters on a budget, and a more budget-friendly tier with limited features could make it more accessible.

• Complex User Interface:

Some users have reported that setting up Riverside took them a while. This could be challenging for new podcasters or those who prefer a more straightforward setup process.

• Unreliable Performance: 

Some users have experienced sync issues and lost content on Riverside. It can be disastrous when recording important interviews or sessions.

• Poor Customer Support: 

Users have reported poor customer support from Riverside, with limited options for issue resolution, such as only being able to communicate through chat.

• Automatic Transcription: 

While Riverside offers automatic transcription in over 100 languages, the accuracy of these transcriptions is not mentioned in the reviews.

Criteria to Consider When Choosing Riverside Alternative

Cost and Pricing Structure

Make sure the tool is one you can afford for the long term. Also, check out higher tiers and limits to make sure you won’t be priced out if you want to ramp up production.

Customer Service

Look for platforms that offer robust customer support, preferably with multiple communication channels—chat, phone, and email.

Additional features

Finally, list must-have features and use them to screen tools. Then, move on to desirable features.

6 Best Riverside Alternatives

1. StreamYard: Best for hosting live streams on multiple platforms simultaneously.
2. SquadCast: Best for remote recordings with multiple participants.
3. Restream: Best for expanding your audience reach without requiring special equipment.
4. Remotely: Best for studio-quality podcast and audio session recordings directly from your web browser.
5. Zencastr: Best for high-fidelity audio capture from the comfort of your home.
6. Airtape: Best for recording studio-quality remote interviews and podcasts.
7. Descript: Best for text-based audio and video editing with AI-powered features.
8. Podcastle: Best for browser-based podcast creation with AI-enhanced audio and video tools.
9. Switcher Studio: Best for turning iOS devices into a professional live video production studio.
10. Livestorm: Best for hosting interactive webinars and virtual events with robust engagement tools.
11. Yostream: Best for affordable multistreaming with customizable branding and audience interaction.

1. StreamYard

StreamYard is a professional live streaming and recording studio that allows users to stream and record their content on platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and more.

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It offers features such as remote guest participation, studio quality recordings, multistreaming to multiple platforms, branding options, and a live webinar platform.

Key Features

• Studio quality recordings: 

The platform ensures that the recordings won’t be blurry or choppy even if someone has weak internet.

• Multistream to all platforms: 

Users can stream to multiple platforms simultaneously. It also allows for the display of audience comments on screen.

• Branding options:

Users can make their shows unique by adding their logo, colors, overlays, and videos, such as intros and outros, without requiring design skills.

• Webinar hosting: 

It can be embedded on websites for a fully white-label experience.

Pricing

StreamYard offers three pricing plans—Free, Basic ($20/month), and Professional ($39/month).

The Free plan provides core features and high-quality streaming for free, while the Basic plan offers additional features such as no StreamYard logo on streams, unlimited streaming, and more.

The Professional plan includes advanced features like on-air webinars, full HD streaming, extra cameras, and multistreaming to multiple destinations.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Ability to stream to multiple platforms simultaneously
• Customizable branding options
• Automatic recording feature
• Ability to invite and manage guests during the stream

Cons

• Requires a stable and strong internet connection for optimal performance
• Limited number of on-screen participants (up to 10)
• Screen sharing option can be improved
• No built-in option for editing while live-streaming

2. SquadCast

SquadCast offers a user-friendly and reliable platform for creating high-quality audio and video content.

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With features like progressive uploads, separate audio and video files, and cloud backups, podcasters can confidently record and produce their podcasts with superior sound and ease of editing.

Key Features

• Remote audio & video recording: 

Collaborate remotely in a cloud recording studio.

• Progressive upload: 

SquadCast’s unique patented technology for seamless uploading of recorded files.

• Dolby technologies: 

Advanced audio processing features for enhanced sound quality.

• Integrations & API:

Automate remote recording workflows with SquadCast integrations and APIs.

Pricing

The pricing for SquadCast includes three main plans—Free, Creator ($12/month), and Pro ($24/month).

The Free plan offers limited features, while the Creator and Pro plans provide more advanced features and benefits at different price points. There’s also a custom Enterprise plan.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Remote collaboration with contributors in different locations
• Real-time editing during recording sessions
• Automatic backups to the cloud
• Customizable recording quality

Cons

• Higher pricing for those with limited budgets
• Resource-intensive
• May have performance issues with less powerful hardware
• Connectivity issues for users with slow internet connections

3. Restream

Restream is a platform that allows users to live stream their content to over 30 destinations simultaneously.

It also provides tools for audio and video production, as well as streaming analytics to help optimize their content.

Key Features

• Studio:

Allows users to have a centralized platform for managing their live streams.

• Multistreaming: 

Users can broadcast their live streams to multiple destinations simultaneously.

• Upload & stream: 

It allows users to upload pre-recorded videos and stream them as if they were live.

• Chat: 

It allows viewers to interact with the streamer and other viewers in real time.

Pricing

Restream offers a range of pricing plans to suit different needs—Free, Standard ($16/month), and Professional ($41/month).

The plans include multistreaming to multiple channels, custom branding, HD streaming quality, storage for recorded videos, and more.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Simulcasting capabilities
• Easy to use
• Low latency streaming
• Stream to multiple platforms

Cons

• Includes Restream logo unless you upgrade
• Doesn’t support 2K and 4K video streaming

4. Remotely

Remotely is a platform that allows content creators to easily record remote interviews in studio quality.

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It offers features like studio-quality audio and video recording, separate tracks for each participant, automatic backups, and automatic post-production.

Key Features

• Studio quality audio and video: 

Locally recorded audio in uncompressed .WAV format at 48kHz/16bit, ensuring high-quality sound; and locally recorded .MP4 video in up to 4K resolution at 30 frames per second, capturing every detail with clarity.

• Separate tracks: 

Each participant is recorded on different tracks, making post-production editing and adjustments easier.

• Multiple guests:

Invite up to 8 simultaneous participants from anywhere around the world for your remote interviews.

• No time drift: 

Remotely ensures that each participant’s track stays synchronized, even during lengthy interviews.

Pricing

Remotely offers two pricing options for recording remote interviews.

The Audio plan costs $15 per month and includes 5 hours of recording per month, while the Audio + Video plan costs $25 per month and includes 8 hours of recording per month. Additional recording hours can be purchased for $2.99 each.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Allows studio-quality interviews from anywhere
• Not reliant on a strong internet connection
• No need to install anything

Cons

• There are no user reviews available

5. Zencastr

Zencastr is an all-in-one podcasting platform that offers a range of features to simplify the podcasting process.

From high-quality recording and editing tools to monetization options and audience analytics, Zencastr provides everything creators need to produce professional podcasts.

Key Features

• Studio quality recording: 

It offers 4K video recording and 16-bit 48k WAV audio tracks per guest, with no time limits.

• Analyze:

You can see where your listeners are located, their listening platforms, operating systems, and browsers. It also provides data on audience retention and the optimal time to post your episodes.

• Live soundboard: 

Its cloud-based Soundboard allows you to insert audio clips live as you record.

• AI video layouts: 

It automatically displays the active participants in your video podcast with its AI video layouts.

Pricing

Zencastr offers different plans for individuals and businesses.

The plans range from $18 monthly for the Professional plan to $275 per month for the ZenAI plan, with varying features such as unlimited recording, post-production credits, video quality, team members, and AI-generated clips.

Pros & Cons

Pros

-Inviting guests with a click

• Internal chat feature
• Multiple tracks for podcasting
• Automated backup integration with Google Drive and Dropbox

Cons

• Limited tools available in the free version
• Crashes on Mac after 30 minutes of recording
• Requires Google Chrome instead of Safari
• No backup feature if computer shuts down during recording
• No mobile app available for managing and sharing files

6. Airtape

Airtape is a podcast recording studio that prioritizes privacy and compliance with data protection regulations.

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With local recording, multiple backups, and European-owned cloud infrastructure, it offers an easy, high-quality solution for recording and publishing podcasts.

Key Features

• Studio quality recordings: 

It allows you to record your podcast or interview in studio quality directly from your web browser.

• Separate tracks: 

You get high-quality audio with different tracks without voice interference, drift, or quality loss.

• Local recording:

Solve the problem of quality loss in voice calls during conferences by recording each participant locally.

• Cloud saving: 

Save chunks of your recording every few seconds to the cloud in the background.

Pricing

Relaunching soon—no pricing information currently available.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Offers studio-quality remote interview and podcast recordings
• Allows users to record meetings online with multiple backups for data security
• Supports local recording for high audio call quality and saving in WAV format
• Intuitive interface for easy navigation and usage

Cons

• No available customer review yet

7. Descript

Descript is an all-in-one audio and video editing tool tailored for podcasters, creators, and businesses. It combines transcription, editing, and collaboration in an intuitive interface. With a unique approach, Descript allows users to edit audio and video as easily as editing a text document. Its AI-powered tools streamline editing workflows, making it ideal for both beginners and professionals.

Key Features

• Overdub: Generate lifelike AI voiceovers or correct mistakes by typing.
• Screen Recorder: Capture your screen and webcam with studio-quality results.
• Multitrack Editing: Seamlessly edit multiple audio and video tracks in one timeline.
• Filler Word Removal: Automatically delete “um,” “ah,” and similar distractions.
• Transcription: Transcribe recordings accurately with AI-powered text editing.
• Team Collaboration: Share projects and allow real-time team edits.

Pricing

Descript offers a free plan with basic features, while the Creator plan ($12/month) includes watermark-free exporting and additional tools. The Pro plan ($24/month) unlocks Overdub, advanced export options, and priority support.

It also offers an Enterprise plan at custom pricing.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Intuitive interface simplifies audio and video editing tasks.
• Overdub AI saves time on corrections and re-recordings.
• Automatic transcription enhances workflow speed and accessibility.
• Supports collaborative editing, ideal for teams and remote work.
• Filler word removal cleans up content in seconds.
• Screen recording feature integrates seamlessly with other tools.

Cons

• Occasional transcription errors, especially with accents.
• Limited advanced editing features for video professionals.

8. Podcastle

Podcastle is an AI-powered, collaborative platform that enables users to create, edit, and publish professional-quality audio and video content directly from their browser. Designed for both beginners and seasoned creators, it streamlines the content creation process with intuitive tools and AI enhancements.

Key Features

• AI Voices: Generate realistic voiceovers by typing text, utilizing advanced AI technology.
• Magic Dust AI: Enhance audio quality by removing background noise and improving clarity with a single click.
• Filler Word Removal: Automatically detect and eliminate filler words like "um" and "ah" to produce cleaner audio.
• Cinematic Blur: Apply AI-driven background blurring to videos, adding a professional touch.
• Eye Contact Fixer: Maintain eye contact in video recordings using AI corrections, enhancing viewer engagement.

Pricing

Podcastle offers a free plan with basic features, suitable for beginners. The paid plans include:

• Storyteller plan starting at $11.99 per month
• Pro plan starting at $23.99 per month

These paid plans provide additional recording hours, higher-quality downloads, and access to a royalty-free music and sound effects library.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• User-friendly interface simplifies content creation.
• AI tools like Magic Dust enhance audio quality effortlessly.
• Browser-based platform requires no additional software installation.
• Supports up to 4K video recording for high-definition content.
• Collaborative features facilitate teamwork on projects.
• Regular updates introduce new features and improvements.

Cons

• Some users report occasional bugs affecting functionality.
• Customer support responsiveness has been noted as needing improvement.

9. Switcher Studio

Switcher Studio is a versatile live video production platform that transforms iOS devices into a multi-camera studio. It enables users to create professional-quality live streams and recordings with real-time editing, graphics, and multimedia overlays. Ideal for content creators, businesses, and educators, Switcher Studio simplifies video production without the need for expensive equipment. citeturn0fetch0

Key Features

• Multi-Camera Switching: Connect up to nine iOS devices to capture different angles and switch between them seamlessly.
• Real-Time Editing: Add graphics, text, and multimedia overlays during live broadcasts.
• Multistreaming: Broadcast simultaneously to platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch.
• Remote Guest Involvement: Invite guests to join live streams from any location and device.
• Customizable Branding: Incorporate logos, graphics, and personalized layouts to enhance brand identity.

Pricing

Switcher Studio offers a 14-day free trial.

The Business Plan is offered at $99/month, with additional charges of $0.99 flat fee per transaction (excluding Stripe fees). This plan includes the ability to store up to 100 videos with no limit on video length.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• User-friendly interface facilitates quick learning and setup.
• Utilizes existing iOS devices, reducing the need for additional equipment.
• High-quality streaming with minimal latency.
• Seamless integration with major streaming platforms.
• Real-time editing enhances live production quality.
• Supports remote guest participation, expanding content possibilities.

Cons

• Limited to iOS devices, restricting cross-platform use.
• Advanced features may require higher-priced plans.

10. Livestorm

Livestorm is a browser-based video engagement platform designed for hosting live, on-demand, and automated webinars, as well as virtual meetings and events. It streamlines the process of creating, promoting, and analyzing online events without requiring any downloads, making it accessible across various devices and operating systems.

Key Features

• Customizable Registration Pages: Create branded registration pages to capture attendee information.
• Audience Interaction Tools: Engage participants with live chat, polls, Q&A sessions, and emoji reactions.
• Analytics and Reporting: Access detailed insights on attendee engagement and event performance.
• Integrations: Seamlessly connect with CRM and marketing tools like HubSpot, Salesforce, and Zapier.
• Automated Emails: Schedule and send personalized email reminders and follow-ups to attendees.

Pricing

Livestorm offers a free plan with limited features, including up to 20-minute events and 30 live attendees. Its paid plans are:

• Pro Plan:
  • Cost: $79/month when billed annually (a 20% discount compared to monthly billing).
  • Cost if billed monthly: $99/month.
  • Features: Includes 100 active contacts.
• Business Plan:
  • Pricing: Custom pricing ("Get a quote").
  • Features: Designed for more extensive use, starting from 500+ active contacts per month.
• Enterprise Plan:
  • Pricing: Custom pricing ("Get a quote").
  • Features: Also for users with 500+ active contacts per month, likely tailored for enterprise-level needs.

Each plan appears to scale in terms of pricing and features based on the number of active contacts and the scope of use.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• No downloads required; accessible via web browsers.
• User-friendly interface simplifies event setup.
• Robust engagement tools enhance participant interaction.
• Comprehensive analytics aid in performance evaluation.
• Wide range of integrations with popular CRM and marketing platforms.
• Supports multiple languages, catering to a global audience.

Cons

• Some users report occasional system crashes during events.
• Certain advanced features may require a learning curve.

11. Yostream

Yostream is a browser-based live streaming platform that enables users to broadcast content seamlessly across multiple social media channels. Designed for content creators, educators, and businesses, it offers features like multistreaming, customizable branding, and audience interaction tools to enhance live broadcasts. citeturn0fetch0

Key Features

• Multistreaming: Broadcast simultaneously to platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch.
• Customizable Branding: Personalize streams with logos, overlays, and backgrounds to reflect your brand identity.
• Guest Involvement: Invite multiple guests to join your live streams, facilitating dynamic discussions.
• Audience Interaction: Engage viewers in real-time through integrated chat and interactive features.
• Screen Sharing: Share your screen effortlessly during live sessions for presentations or demonstrations.

Pricing

Yostream offers a free plan with basic features, including 2-channel multistreaming and 20 hours of streaming per month.

The pricing structure of the paid plans is as follows:

1. Basic Plan:

• Cost: $15.00 per month.
• Features: Includes access to advanced streaming features.

2. Pro Plan:

• Cost: $35.00 per month.
• Features: Offers a wide range of interactive streaming features, providing more advanced capabilities compared to the Basic plan.

Both plans are billed monthly and cater to different user needs based on feature requirements.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• User-friendly interface simplifies the streaming process.
• Supports multistreaming to expand audience reach.
• Customizable branding enhances professional appearance.
• No additional software installation required.
• Real-time audience interaction boosts engagement.
• Affordable pricing compared to similar platforms.

Cons

• Limited advanced features in the free plan.
• Currently lacks a dedicated mobile application.

Bonus Tool: Cleanvoice

Cleanvoice is an AI-powered tool that automatically cleans and transcribes podcast audio recorded on any of the tools mentioned above. Rather than spending hours manually searching for imperfections, Cleanvoice automatically detects and removes:

• Filler words (umm, ahh, etc.)
• Stutters
• Background noises
• Mouth sounds (clicks, pops, etc.)
• Dead air

Marker and timeline exports make it easy to transfer your enhanced audio to your favorite editing tool for post-production. Cleanvoice can also generate highly accurate podcast transcripts. You can repurpose these transcripts as podcast summaries, show notes, and social content.

Get started with 30 minutes of cleaned audio for free.

Conclusion

The Riverside alternatives above are powerful tools for recording and editing podcast audio. Whether you’re looking for a fully loaded studio production package or a straightforward way to record remote interviews, something here will work for your podcasts.

Once you’ve recorded your audio, Cleanvoice can give it the extra polish it needs to sound professional.

Our AI-powered tool can remove background noise, enhance clarity, and add your enhanced audio to your favorite editing tool for post-production.

Get started for free and see what Cleanvoice can do.