GNOME Podcasts
GNOME Podcasts: A focused, free Linux podcast player with downloads but no cross-device sync. Ranked #45 of 55 in Podcast Apps by our editors (4.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for basic Linux desktop podcast playback.
At a glance
- Editor score4.0 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forBasic Linux desktop podcast playback
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Facts checked22 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free, open-source desktop app for Linux
- Supports RSS, Atom, iTunes, SoundCloud, and OPML
- Downloads episodes and remembers listening position
Where it doesn't
- No sync across devices
- No video or transcript features
- Limited to Linux desktop use
Our verdict on GNOME Podcasts
GNOME Podcasts is a free, open-source podcast application for Linux and the GNOME desktop. It is aimed at solo listeners and small teams who want straightforward desktop playback, subscription management, and offline listening without a paid plan. The app supports various audio formats, remembers listening position, and lets listeners subscribe through RSS and Atom feeds as well as iTunes and SoundCloud links. It also supports OPML imports for bringing in subscriptions from another application.
Its strongest fit is a simple Linux podcast workflow. Users can browse shows, episodes, and episode chapters; mark individual episodes as played; and download podcast content for offline playback. These features cover the core needs of listeners who manage podcasts from one desktop and value an open-source application. The GNOME focus also makes it a natural choice for users already working within that desktop environment. The feature set stays centered on audio podcast playback rather than extending into broader media management.
The main trade-off is its narrow platform and feature scope. GNOME Podcasts does not provide sync across devices, video, or transcripts, so listeners moving between desktop and mobile will need another solution for continuity. Its Linux desktop focus also makes it unsuitable for users who require a mobile app or a multi-platform library. Choose GNOME Podcasts for free, local Linux playback with RSS subscriptions, OPML import, chapters, and downloads. Choose an alternative if cross-device access, video playback, or transcript support is central to your listening routine.
Your product? Our editors can test GNOME Podcasts in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
GNOME Podcasts pricing
GNOME Podcasts fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported platforms | Linux |
| Offline downloads | Yes |
| Video podcasts | Not verified |
| Episode transcripts | Not verified |
| Private feed support | Not verified |
| Cross-device sync | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Linux |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 5 integrations: RSS, Atom, iTunes, SoundCloud, OPML |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | apps.gnome.org |
| Facts checked | 22 Sep 2026 |
GNOME Podcasts integrations
GNOME Podcasts lists 5 integrations on its own site.
- RSS
- Atom
- iTunes
- SoundCloud
- OPML
Alternatives to GNOME Podcasts
- Apple PodcastsA broad podcast service with discovery, video, transcripts, private feeds, and device sync.9.3
- OvercastA strong Apple-focused player for listeners who want smarter playback and organization.9.1
- Pocket CastsA broad podcast app with free cross-device access and focused Plus upgrades.8.8
See all GNOME Podcasts alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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