Video vs audio podcasting: The 2025 landscape

Whether you’re listening to a crime thriller while on the treadmill or watching a comedian interview a celebrity from a decked-out studio, it’s clear the format is more flexible than ever. In fact, the global podcast audience is booming—584.1 million listeners worldwide in 2025, marking a 6.83% year-on-year increase, with numbers expected to climb to 651.7 million by 2027. And the conversation today has shifted—video podcast vs audio podcast isn’t just a tech spec, it’s a content strategy.

The rise of video podcasting

In the world of content, visibility matters. And that’s where video podcasting has surged ahead. The question can podcast be video? is now obsolete. Of course it can. Video podcasts are not only real—they’re reshaping the industry.​

The most popular podcast genres in 2024-2025, based on U.S. and global data, and according to Edison Research are:

• Comedy: Consistently the top genre by weekly reach and listener preference, with about 47% of listeners tuning in to comedy podcasts. It dominates charts due to high demand despite saturation.
• Society & Culture: Ranked #2 in U.S. weekly reach, covering broad social issues, cultural trends, and personal stories, appealing to listeners seeking thoughtful content
• News: A major genre for timely updates and in-depth analysis, ranking in the top three in the US and popular worldwide as podcasting becomes a key news source.

Social media algorithms prioritise video, platforms like YouTube and Spotify are investing heavily in visual podcast formats, and creators are seeing higher engagement across the board. Why? Because audiences want more. They want to see body language, set design, reactions, visual gags. They want an experience.​

In 2025, video podcasting allows for multi-platform distribution—reels on Instagram, snippets on TikTok, full episodes on YouTube. It’s no longer just an audio experience; it’s a fully-fledged visual brand.

And from a monetisation standpoint, creators benefit from more ad placements, sponsorships, and better algorithmic visibility. So, when it comes to video podcast vs audio podcast, video offers more—if you have the bandwidth to produce it.​

The enduring appeal of audio podcasting

Still, don’t count audio out. In fact, traditional audio podcasts are thriving. They offer something video can’t: mobility. You don’t have to look at a screen. Whether you’re in the car, at the gym, or doing chores, audio fits into your life seamlessly.​

Audio also wins on production ease. No need for lights, cameras, or post-editing visual effects. All you need is a mic and a good idea. That’s why new voices continue to emerge—because the barrier to entry is low, and the connection is intimate.​

From a strategic perspective, creators now repurpose their audio video podcast content into audio-first streams. This dual approach maximises reach. Listeners who don’t have time to watch still get the full experience in their ears.​

So, which is better?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the video podcast vs audio podcast debate. It depends on your audience, your goals, and your resources. Are you trying to build a brand, engage visually, and monetise across platforms? Video might be the route. Are you focused on thought leadership, niche storytelling, or flexible access? Audio could be the perfect fit.​

The best creators today? They do both. They record a podcast in video format and strip the audio for traditional feeds. That’s where the future lies: in blending formats, not choosing between them.​

twofour54’s role in advancing podcasting technology

At the heart of Abu Dhabi’s media landscape, twofour54 has emerged as a pivotal player, offering state-of-the-art facilities to content creators. Among its innovative offerings is the Pod24 Portable Podcast Studio, a mobile facility designed for seamless, professional productions, located in the campus’ Yas Creative Hub. Integrating advanced audio, video, and lighting technology, Pod24 caters to both audio and video podcasting needs.​

This facility underscores twofour54’s commitment to nurturing the creative ecosystem. By providing a flexible, high-quality recording environment, twofour54 empowers creators to produce compelling content without the constraints of traditional studio settings.​

Yas Creative Hub: the epicentre of innovation

Yas Creative Hub, developed by twofour54, stands as a testament to Abu Dhabi’s vision for a thriving creative and media ecosystem. With over 700 media companies and thousands of professionals, freelancers, and entrepreneurs, the campus is a melting pot of creativity and innovation.​

Facilities at Yas Creative Hub include flexible workspaces, advanced production suites, and a dedicated podcast facility equipped with HD/4K video capability, flexible lighting setups, and universal audio dynamic microphones. These amenities ensure that creators have access to top-tier resources for both audio and video podcasting.

Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond

In 2025, the future of podcasting is both seen and heard. Platforms are expanding, audiences are diversifying, and formats are blending. The rise of audio video podcast productions shows how the market is responding—not with rivalry, but with reinvention.​

As more creators embrace these twofold strategies, the distinctions will continue to blur.

Click here for more information or to book the Pod24 studio.