The future of podcasts is now. Content creation has never been easier, and recent innovations like Google Notebook LM and Podcas.io have made podcast episode creation faster, smarter, and more customisable than ever. These tools are reshaping the way we create and consume audio content, catering to both personal and professional needs. But when it comes down to Google Notebook LM vs. Podcas.io, which one should you choose?
After testing both, it’s clear that while Google Notebook LM excels in academic-focused content, Podcas offers a broader and more entertainment-driven experience. Below, we’ll compare these two solutions head-to-head so you can decide which is right for you.
Source Input: File Upload (Google Notebook LM) vs. Web Links (Podcas)
Google Notebook LM relies heavily on user-uploaded files as the source material for its audio overviews. Users can upload PDFs, documents, and other files to generate concise summaries in audio format. This makes it perfect for academics, students, and researchers who need audio summaries of dense material.
Podcas, on the other hand, pulls information directly from web links. Users simply paste a URL, and Podcas combines this with additional open-source material to create a unique, dynamic podcast episode. This approach allows for broader content curation, offering users fresh, relevant, and up-to-date audio episodes on the fly.
Verdict: If you want to convert existing academic materials into audio, Google Notebook LM is the clear winner. For content pulled from live, ever-evolving web pages, Podcas offers unmatched flexibility.
Creation of Personas: None (Google Notebook LM) vs. Hundreds (Podcas)
We all have our favourite TV characters—Ross from Friends, Jon Snow from Game of Thrones, and more. Podcas takes this idea to the next level, offering users the ability to select from hundreds of personas and character voices to narrate their podcasts. Want to hear your episode narrated by a wise mentor, a quirky friend, or a sci-fi robot? With Podcas, you can.
On the flip side, Google Notebook LM sticks to a more traditional approach, using standard AI-generated voices designed for clarity and simplicity. While it’s efficient for academic overviews, it lacks the charm and personalisation offered by Podcas.
Verdict: Podcas takes the crown here with its wide range of voice personas that create a richer, more engaging podcast experience.
Focus: Academic (Google Notebook LM) vs. Entertainment and Information (Podcas)
Google Notebook LM was built with an academic audience in mind. Its main selling point is its ability to condense thick, wordy academic material into bite-sized summaries. It’s a lifesaver for students, researchers, and lifelong learners who need a quick audio summary of a long textbook or a dense research paper.
Podcas, on the other hand, is all about entertainment and user-driven information. It’s a casual platform designed for users who want to turn web content into a shareable podcast episode. Whether it’s a news article, a blog, or a “Top 10 Tips” list, Podcas transforms it into an engaging audio experience that’s fun, light, and interactive.
Verdict: Google Notebook is best for academic use, while Podcas wins for casual entertainment and personal information needs.
Download Options: Audio Only (Google Notebook LM) vs. Audio and Video (Podcas)
Google Notebook LM’s audio overviews are designed for personal use, and while users can listen on the platform, they cannot download the audio files. This limits flexibility for users who might want to save content for offline listening.
Podcas provides more freedom. Users can download their created episodes in both audio and video formats. This feature is especially useful for those who want to share training videos, tutorials, or “mini-shows” with friends, family, or colleagues. You’re not limited to personal use—you can distribute your creations on other platforms too.
Verdict: Podcas wins hands down, offering users the ability to download and share their content in multiple formats.
Table Comparison: Google Notebook vs. Podcas
| Feature | Google Notebook LM | Podcas |
| Source Input | File Uploads | Web Links + Open-Source Data |
| Personas | None | Hundreds of Character Voices |
| Content Focus | Academic Summaries | Entertainment & Informative Podcasts |
| Download Options | Audio Only | Audio + Video |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re a student, academic, or researcher looking to convert dense academic content into quick audio summaries, Google Notebook LM is the better choice. It’s straightforward, efficient, and focused on educational value.
But if you’re looking for something more dynamic, creative, and sharable, Podcas is the clear winner. Its ability to transform live web content into shareable podcast episodes, combined with its extensive selection of voice personas and download options, makes it the more versatile option for personal and professional use.
Bottom Line: Choose Google Notebook LM if you’re focused on academic content, and pick Podcas if you want an entertaining, customisable podcast experience that’s ready to share with the world.
