Best Descript Alternatives (September 2025) — No AI Credits, No Media Minutes

Descript has been one of the most talked-about tools for podcasters and video creators over the past few years. Its text-based editing and AI features have made it popular with indie creators and agencies alike.

But with Descript’s new pricing model rolling out in 2025 — introducing “media minutes” and “AI credits” — many creators are starting to look around for alternatives.

If you’re one of them, you’re not alone. In this post, we’ll look at some of the best Descript alternatives available in 2025 — from free tools to simpler paid options — so you can decide what fits your workflow (and budget).

What to Look For in a Descript Alternative

Before diving into the list, it’s worth clarifying what makes an alternative good for podcasters and creators. The most common needs are:

• Accurate transcription (and easy-to-read text).
• Text-based editing (edit your media as easily as editing a doc).
• Audio cleanup and enhancement that doesn’t sound robotic.
• Affordable pricing (no confusing credit systems).
• Stability — no crashes, sync errors, or constant redesigns.

With that in mind, here are the top alternatives worth checking out in 2025:

1. Trebble

If you’re frustrated with Descript’s pricing or complexity, Trebble is built specifically for solo creators and small teams who want the essentials without the headaches.

Best for: Podcasters, coaches, and educators who want simple, reliable editing.

Highlights:

• Edit by text — just like editing a doc.
• Automatic silence and filler word removal.
• AI-powered cleanup that flags rambling and repeats.
• Flat pricing — no credits or usage caps.
• Stable, intuitive interface designed to save time.

Limitations:

• Doesn’t try to do everything (no avatars or video generation).
• Focuses on core editing instead of flashy extras.

Full disclosure: Trebble is our product — we built it to help solo creators save time and avoid the stress of complicated editors. You can try it free at www.trebble.fm.

‍

2. Riverside

Riverside started as a remote recording platform, but has quickly added editing features to compete with Descript.

Best for: Creators who need high-quality remote recording and basic editing in one place.

Highlights:

• Remote video/audio recording in studio quality.
• AI-based filler word and silence removal.
• Built-in Magic Audio cleanup.
• Livestreaming and multi-track recording.

Limitations:

• Editing tools aren’t as mature as Descript yet.
• AI audio cleanup can still sound processed.

3. Audacity

Audacity is the classic free audio editor — it’s been around for decades and is still widely used.

Best for: Podcasters who want total control and don’t mind a steeper learning curve.

Highlights:

• Completely free and open source.
• Powerful editing features if you know what you’re doing.
• Works offline.

Limitations:

• No text-based editing.
• Interface feels dated.
• Manual workflow (takes time).

4. Adobe Podcast (Enhance Speech)

Adobe has stepped into the creator space with its AI-based audio enhancement tool.

Best for: People who mainly want cleaner audio, not full editing.

Highlights:

• Excellent AI audio cleanup (especially for echo or background noise).
• Simple web-based interface.

Limitations:

• Still limited in scope — not a full editor.
• Works best as a complement to other tools.

‍

5. Hindenburg

Hindenburg is a long-standing favorite among journalists and podcasters.

Best for: Storytellers and pros who want detailed control over audio.

Highlights:

• Strong multitrack editing tools.
• Voice profiling and auto-leveling.
• Trusted in professional newsrooms.

Limitations:

• Not text-based.
• Higher upfront cost compared to newer SaaS tools.

Comparison at a Glance

Final Thoughts

Descript isn’t going away anytime soon, but its new pricing model has made many creators question whether it’s still the best fit. The good news? There are solid alternatives, depending on your needs.

• Want the essentials in one place, with no credits or caps? → Try Trebble.
• Want strong remote recording? → Try Riverside.
• Want free, open-source editing? → Use Audacity.
• Need just audio cleanup? → Check Adobe Podcast.
• Need pro newsroom-level tools? → Go with Hindenburg.

The key is finding the tool that matches your workflow — not one that forces you to pay for features you’ll never use.

‍