Looking to start a podcast? If so, you're probably wondering about the things you need to begin. What you need to launch a podcast depends on certain factors. This includes your budget, hardware, software, and hosting. In this article, we'll show you all you need to get started with podcasting.

Whether you're looking to start podcasting as a hobby or as a career, you need the right gear and software to get you started on the right footing. Although you can start with your iPhone or a field recorder, you'll likely record minimal success. Thankfully, the right gear doesn't need to cost your right arm or leg. Here's our top list of podcasting essentials to get you started.

Podcast Microphone: MAONO USB Microphone

A podcast microphone is one of the most essential gears needed to start podcasting whether you're looking to start an audio or video podcast. And one of the best budget podcast mics out there is the MAONO USB Microphone. With a 192kHz/24bit sampling rate and 30Hz-16kHz flat frequency response, this professional condenser cardioid metal microphone produces high-res output.

The MAONO USB microphone is laptop, PC, and PS4-compatible. You can even connect it to your smartphone via OTG (not supplied). It is plug-and-play and doesn't require an extra driver software or sound card. Its double shielding USB design reduces interference producing crisp, clear audio.

Podcast Headphones: OneOdio Wired Over-Ear Headphone

Podcast headphones are another essential piece of gear. They allow you to hear outside noises, poppings, echoes, and other unwanted sounds that can bleed into your audio. The OneOdio Podcast Headphones are a solid pick. Used by DJs for mixing and mastering, they have large 50-millimeter speaker unit drivers combined with neodymium magnets and produce detail-rich sound.

They have soft padded ear cushions for maximum comfort and an adjustable and extendable headband for the perfect fit. They come with a 9.8 feet cord and standard-sized 3.5 and 6.35-millimeter plugs. They're foldable and support single-side monitoring, thanks to their 90-degree swiveling ear cup design.

Podcast Audio Interface: Pyle Professional Audio Mixer Soundboard Console

If you want to produce professional podcasts, you'll need an audio interface like the Pyle Professional Audio Mixer Soundboard Console. An audio interface helps to convert microphone and instrument signals. It also routes audio out from your OneOdio headphone or monitors. The Pyle Professional Audio Mixer is a solid option for podcasters.

This lightweight and compact six-channel audio interface supports USB, XLR, and Bluetooth connectivity. It features several built-in controls that allow you to play/pause, skip tracks, and switch between modes. It also has a LED peak level indicator and ultra-musical three-band EQ on all channels, as well as ultra-low noise, and high headroom mixer functionality.

Podcast Camera: Logitech Brio 4k Webcam

If you're looking to start a video podcast, then a camera is indispensable. Again, as with other essential podcast gear, different options are available. One of the best podcast cameras we recommend is the Logitech Brio 4k Webcam. It is simple, easy to mount, and does a great job of capturing you and your guests.

This webcam is compatible with Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google Voice, desktops, and tablets. The Logitech Brio 4k webcam supports ultra 4k HD video calling with a built-in noise-canceling mic. It has 5x HD zoom capabilities and supports three field-of-view presets. No lights, no problem. It also has an HD auto light correction feature for any-light condition as well as a privacy shade function when not recording.

Podcast Bundle Kit: MAONO Caster Lite

Cost is, by far, one of the biggest considerations when starting a podcast, especially if you plan to do it professionally. Prices of essential hardware like a PC, microphone, headphones, audio interface, camera, and lights can quickly add up. However, podcast bundles like the MAONO Caster Lite Kit contain everything you need to start podcasting at a budget-friendly price. Being the same brand, it offers superb integration and compatibility.

The MAONO Caster Lite Kit is your all-in-one podcast starter kit if you're on a shoestring budget. It supports up to two participants, four devices, and four streaming platforms per time. It features a microphone, a tripod, an XLR to 3.5-millimeter connector, an audio interface, and a windscreen muff. It comes with an operation manual to walk you through the slightly complex setup. However, you shouldn't use the included microphone with phantom power.

Best Podcast Recording Software: GarageBand, Audacity, Adobe Audition, Alitu

The best podcasting equipment is trash without the right production software. The following are some of the best podcast recording software to get you started.

Best Podcast Software Mac: GarageBand

If you own an Apple device, GarageBand is one of the best podcast recording software you can use. GarageBand is Apple's own native digital audio workstation (DAW) specifically designed for macOS, iPadOS, and iOS devices, and it's free.

It allows you to select a male or female voice, adjust your sound settings, record, playback, add music and sound effects, photos and videos, podcast metadata, and album art. You can also export your podcast. This GarageBand user manual details how to create a podcast with GarageBand 9.

Best Podcast Software Windows: Audacity

If you own a Windows machine, you may want to try Audacity. It's a free, open-source, cross-platform audio recording software. It is another popular podcast recording software, however, it only supports audio podcasts. It works for macOS and Linux.

With Audacity, you can test your mics, headphones, as well as record and playback your podcast. You can equally edit it by removing unwanted sounds like clippings, or by adding intro and outro sounds or other effects. You can then export your audio as MP3, WAV, or OGG.

Best Cross-Platform Podcast Software: Adobe Audition

Adobe Audition is one of the most popular professional DAWs that allows you to create, mix, and design sound effects as well as podcasts. Although not free, it does offer a seven-day free trial. It works on Windows and macOS and supports several languages.

Adobe Audition comes with custom-built templates and presets that allow you to easily record, mix, edit, and publish world-class podcasts. You can record your podcast using waveform or the multitrack editor. Here's a guide to help you get started with podcasting on Adobe Audition.

Best Cloud-Based Podcast Software: Alitu

Alitu is another powerful premium cloud-based podcast maker that allows you to streamline and simplify your entire podcast workflow. Although not a full-feature DAW, it does allow you to make great podcasts in far less time. It also offers a  seven-day free trial.

With Alitu, you can easily record solo or with a guest, edit and remove unwanted parts or add sounds and effects. When you're done, it'll automatically polish and optimize your podcast. Thereafter, you can create episodes and then publish them. Other popular alternatives include Zoom, Riverside.fm, and SquadCast.

Best Podcast Hosting: Anchor.fm

Anchor can help you supercharge your podcasts whether you're a first-time podcaster or looking to up your podcasting game. Anchor is Spotify's free podcast hosting platform that allows you to easily create, distribute and monetize your podcasts. This feature-rich service is the go-to resource for many podcasters.

With it, you can distribute your podcast to Spotify and other popular podcast listening apps. You also get free unlimited hosting forever. It also allows you to attract sponsorships and set up subscriptions as your podcast grows. What's more, it provides analytics so you can see what's going on behind the scenes and optimize your processes.