Podcast Ranking MethodS COMPARED
Each podcast ranking method has its advantages and limitations. Here are methods for Podtrac’s top podcasts rankings, and how they compare to other methods.
1 - Rankings Based on Shows Using Download Measurement System Only
Summary: These rankings precisely identify and rank opted-in podcasts based on measurement data only.
Example: Podtrac Top U.S. Audio Podcasts by Audience
Advantages
Precision - Precise rank of podcasts included in the rankings using podcast measurement system data.
Experience - Podtrac’s 20 years of experience in podcast measurement.
Timeliness - Monthly
Limitations
Comprehensiveness - Requires podcasts to opt-in to be included.
Scope - Rankings provided for limited regions.
2 - Rankings Based on All Shows
Summary: These rankings consider any potential podcast based on measured and/or estimated counts.
Example: Podtrac Top Audio Podcasts by Country
Advantages
Comprehensiveness - Both Podtrac measured and estimated podcasts are considered for these rankings.
Precision - Download counts are used for measured podcasts.
Scope - All podcasts considered for the rankings.
Experience - Podtrac’s 20 years of experience in podcast measurement, and our extensive database of podcasts used to inform the rankings.
Timeliness - Monthly
Limitations
Precision - For unmeasured podcasts, estimates differ from actual download counts.
Comprehensiveness - Podtrac uses multiple sources to identify podcasts to maximize the comprehensiveness of its rankings. It’s possible there are top podcasts outside of Podtrac’s current sources.
3 - Rankings Based on Survey Data
Summary: These rankings survey podcast consumers periodically and produce rankings based on the sample interviewed.
Advantages
Does not require podcasts to opt-in.
Usually includes an estimated rank for the top 25 to 50 podcasts.
Limitations
Comprehensiveness - Results are often limited to the top 25 to 50 podcasts because the sample size required for deep counts is cost prohibitive and with fragmentation, the results are often inaccurate.
Listener Sample - Often limited to regular weekly podcast listeners vs monthly or less frequent listeners who have other listening habits per show.
Accuracy - May not accurately capture niche popular podcasts with avid fan bases difficult to reach through survey methods. Additionally, self-reported listening behavior may differ from actual listening.
Timeframe and Timeliness - Results are often posted annually or quarterly which provides less timely information and does not show changes month-over-month.
Scope - Rankings provided for a limited geography.
4 - Rankings from Podcast Platforms
Summary: These rankings are provided within client software.
Example: Apple and Spotify rankings
Advantages
Provides a podcast ranking specific to a platform/app.
Limitations
Timeframe - Oftentimes a current “trending” ranking vs a ranking over a month, for example.
Sample - Does not provide a ranking of the most popular podcasts across multiple sources of podcast traffic
Rankings from Podtrac
Top Global Publishers & Networks