Head-to-head comparison
SquadCast vs WaveLab Cast
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.
Remote recording with progressive local uploads, now bundled with Descript.
Best for: Reliable remote recording
Steinberg's podcast-focused audio editor with multitrack recording and direct upload to hosts.
Best for: Steinberg loyalists
At a glance
The honest trade-offs
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
WaveLab Cast
Pros
- Built on Steinberg's mature audio engine
- Direct upload to Spreaker, Podbean, SoundCloud
- 30-day free trial of the full app
Watch-outs
- Smaller community and fewer tutorials
- Less narrative-focused than Hindenburg
- Mac and Windows only
Which one should you pick?
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.
Pick WaveLab Cast if
You’re building around steinberg loyalists. WaveLab Cast 2 is the underrated podcast tool from a serious audio company. Same engine as Steinberg's mastering flagship, with direct upload to Spreaker, Podbean, and SoundCloud.
Also worth comparing
Or see all SquadCast alternatives.
Frequently asked
What does SquadCast do better than WaveLab Cast?
SquadCast's standout is "Progressive uploads survive connection drops". WaveLab Cast doesn't make that promise — it leans into "Built on Steinberg's mature audio engine" instead. If the first sentence describes your workflow, pick SquadCast; if the second does, pick WaveLab Cast.
What are the trade-offs?
SquadCast: standalone identity blurred post-acquisition. WaveLab Cast: smaller community and fewer tutorials. Whether either matters depends entirely on what you actually need — neither is a deal-breaker by itself.
Do they support the same platforms?
SquadCast works on Web where WaveLab Cast doesn't. WaveLab Cast works on macOS, Windows where SquadCast doesn't. If you're on a specific OS or device, that may decide for you.
Can I use SquadCast and WaveLab Cast together?
Both are recording tools so most teams pick one. Some workflows do combine them — for example, using SquadCast for one show or episode type and WaveLab Cast for another. Worth trying both free tiers before committing.