Technology moves at lightning speed, with new innovations, ideas, and discoveries happening every day. For tech enthusiasts who want to stay on top of everything, podcasts are an invaluable resource. I‘ve listened to countless hours of tech podcasts covering a wide range of topics, from gadget reviews to cybersecurity breaches and tech company histories. Below I present the 8 podcasts I believe are the best for getting an in-depth, well-rounded understanding of the tech world.
1. Vergecast – Best Overall
Vergecast stands out as the top contender for best tech podcast. Hosted by Nilay Patel, Editor-in-Chief of The Verge, along with David Pierce and Alex Cranz, episodes deliver insightful yet accessible analysis of the week‘s top tech news.
Recent favorite topics include Instagram trying to become TikTok, Apple earnings calls, and interviews with tech CEOs. With over 566 episodes and counting, Vergecast releases new content weekly on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. The knowledgeable hosts have a talent for breaking down complex industry drama into entertaining conversations anyone can enjoy.
2. Mac Power Users – Best for Apple Fans
Apple super fans will love Mac Power Users. Hosted by David Sparks and Stephen Hackett, the hosts‘ passion for Apple mirrors your own. Topics range from iPad productivity to interviews with Mac developers.
With over 650 episodes since 2009, new shows release weekly. A recent 90-minute interview with Christian Selig, developer of the popular iOS Reddit app Apollo, was a highlight. Listen on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
3. Waveform: The MKBHD Podcast – Best for Gadget Lovers
For gadget fanatics, Waveform is a must-listen. Co-hosted by Marques Brownlee of YouTube fame along with producer Andrew Manganelli, each down-to-earth episode tackles product reviews, buying advice, camera comparisons, and more.
Recent topics range from determining the best smartphone camera to debating whether the Xiaomi 12s Ultra merits its $900 price tag. New episodes release frequently on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
4. Acquired – Best for Startup Stories
Acquired tells the unknown backstories of famous startups. Veteran founders and tech investors Ben Gilbert and David Rosenthal get to the heart of each company‘s origin story—going beyond fluffy success narratives to uncover instructive challenges and failures.
Guests have included the founders of Twitter, Venmo, Mozilla, Digg, and more. A recent 3-hour episode chronicling the history of Sony was a fascinating exploration of how an underdog upstart became a global conglomerate.
With over 100 episodes released irregularly, Acquired is essential listening for entrepreneurs. Find it on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
5. Techmeme Ride Home – Best Quick Tech News
For a snappy 15-minute roundup of the day‘s top tech headlines, Techmeme Ride Home delivers. Hosted by Brian McCullough and published every weekday at 5 pm ET, each tight episode curates the most essential news sans fluff.
With over 1,280 entries and counting, it‘s perfect for busy listeners who want tech news in a flash. A recent episode discussing early reactions to iOS 16 left me wanting more. Find Techmeme Ride Home on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
6. TechStuff – Most Fun for Casual Listeners
TechStuff manages an impressive balancing act—breaking down complex tech for the average listener while still offering something for enthusiasts. Upbeat host Jonathan Strickland focuses each episode on how technology intersects with culture, society, and our daily lives.
From the history of the Super Soaker to what led Jony Ive to leave Apple, episodes run around an hour featuring Strickland‘s energetic storytelling. TechStuff releases weekly on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
7. Land of the Giants – Best Longform Company Deep Dives
For an in-depth look into the most impactful tech giants, Land of the Giants is unparalleled. Each season explores the full story behind companies like Amazon, Netflix, Apple, Google, and Facebook—from scrappy underdog to industry titan.
Expert reporting unpacks business models, leadership drama, cultural influence and more over sessions as long as 10 episodes. A standout is the look at how Blockbuster failed to stop Netflix when it had the chance. Catch up now on Spotify and Apple Podcasts before season 7 drops.
8. Darknet Diaries – Best Cybersecurity True Stories
Finally, for fans of internet mysteries, Darknet Diaries delivers the most compelling true stories from the dark side of technology. Creator Jack Rhysider takes listeners inside tales of hacktivism, data breaches, digital heists and espionage operations.
From dissecting the 2018 Olympic cyber attack to examining prison hacks and carding rings, episodes play out like an edgy Black Mirror episode. If you like exploring the intersection of technology and deception, don‘t miss this cult favorite podcast. Catch up on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
How to Choose the Best Tech Podcast For You
With countless options to pick from, finding podcasts that match your interests requires some strategic thinking. Here are three key factors to consider:
Topic
Get clear on what area of tech you want to dive into. For gadget buffs, Waveform is a perfect fit. Startup founders should look to Acquired. And all-around news listeners will love Vergecast. Read episode descriptions to get a feel for each show‘s niche before subscribing.
Episode Length
Match episode runtimes to situations where you‘ll actually listen. For example, 15-minute news bursts like Techmeme Ride Home are great for commutes. But for long workouts, longer podcasts like Darknet Diaries let you get lost in a story. Think about your schedule before committing time.
Release Frequency
Frequent and prolific shows like Techmeme Ride Home allow you to form listening habits. But more intermittent podcasts mean you have time to catch up between seasons. So consider how often you realistically want new episodes to keep your interest.
The variety of excellent tech podcasts means there‘s something for every interest, available whenever and wherever you want to listen. Use the above criteria to find ones that best fit into your life.
Final Takeaway
Technology influences global culture more than ever before. For anyone fascinated by understanding how innovation happens, tech podcasts deliver colorful stories straight from industry insiders. This list surfaces shows ranging from big picture analysis to product reviews to cyber intrigue. Whatever your tech interest may be, one of these podcasts will feed your curiosity, inspire new perspectives and demystify tomorrow’s technology today. So stay curious!
