Head-to-head comparison
Craig vs SquadCast
Two of the recording tools podcasters reach for. Here's how they differ on pricing, features, audience, and the trade-offs that actually matter day-to-day.
Discord voice-channel recording bot with multi-track output for podcasts run on Discord.
Best for: Discord-based shows
Remote recording with progressive local uploads, now bundled with Descript.
Best for: Reliable remote recording
At a glance
The honest trade-offs
Craig
Pros
- Free with multi-track output for post-production
- Up to 6 hours continuous recording
- Recordings downloadable for 7 days
Watch-outs
- Audio quality limited by Discord's codec
- Requires server admin to add the bot
- No editing — just raw files
SquadCast
Pros
- Progressive uploads survive connection drops
- Separate tracks per participant
- Bundled with Descript editing in some plans
Watch-outs
- Standalone identity blurred post-acquisition
- Video quality trails Riverside slightly
- Browser-only for guests, no native app
Which one should you pick?
Pick Craig if
You’re building around discord-based shows. Craig is the Discord bot that records voice channels with each speaker on a separate track. Free, runs on any server you can add it to, exports FLAC and AAC.
Pick SquadCast if
You’re building around reliable remote recording. SquadCast was always the dependable, less flashy sibling to Riverside, and the Descript acquisition has only sharpened that role. Progressive uploads work as advertised — recordings survive connection drops that would destroy a Zoom call.
Also worth comparing
Or see all Craig alternatives.
Frequently asked
What does Craig do better than SquadCast?
Craig's standout is "Free with multi-track output for post-production". SquadCast doesn't make that promise — it leans into "Progressive uploads survive connection drops" instead. If the first sentence describes your workflow, pick Craig; if the second does, pick SquadCast.
What are the trade-offs?
Craig: audio quality limited by discord's codec. SquadCast: standalone identity blurred post-acquisition. Whether either matters depends entirely on what you actually need — neither is a deal-breaker by itself.
Can I use Craig and SquadCast together?
Both are recording tools so most teams pick one. Some workflows do combine them — for example, using Craig for one show or episode type and SquadCast for another. Worth trying both free tiers before committing.