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These are the best podcasting microphones we've tested. All models are aimed at serious podcasters seeking professional audio quality. Even if you're just podcasting for fun, starting with high-quality sound will help you separate yourself from podcasters using gaming headsets or AirPods. Although those work in a pinch, nothing can replace a high-quality podcasting mic - you'll boost the listening experience and grow your audience with a good-quality podcasting mic. But where to start? All microphones are not created equal. From the all-in-one convenience and software features of USB microphones and the variety and quality that XLR mics can provide to excellent-sounding compact portable microphones, there are some one perfect for your needs. We have done a deep dive into some of the best podcast microphones around, and believe us, the waters are deep. Here are some of our favorites for a variety of budgets and uses.
Key Takeaways
- Shure MV7: The best overall podcasting microphone priced at $249, offering superior audio quality and versatility.
- Electro-Voice RE20: Best overall XLR microphone for podcasting, known for its durability and exceptional sound reproduction.
- Samson Q2U: Best value XLR microphone for podcasting, providing a balance of quality and affordability.
- Rode NT-USB Mini: Ideal for multiple USB use, especially when combined with Rode Connect software.
- AKG Lyra: Recommended as the best podcast microphone for Mac users, offering excellent audio quality and ease of use.
Shure MV7
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The Shure MV7 is a versatile microphone that offers both USB and XLR connections, making it suitable for a variety of recording setups. This dynamic cardioid microphone is designed to capture your voice from right in front of it while isolating it from any background noise. This feature is particularly useful for podcasters who record in less-than-ideal environments.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Similar to the SM7B but cheaper and more versatile
- Dual-connection (USB & XLR) for flexibility
- Ideal for recording in imperfect rooms
Cons:
- Increased plosive and sibilance pickup compared to the SM7B
- Awkward digital touch controls for gain and headphone volume
- Not the strongest of signals when used in XLR form
Pricing
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Cost | $250 |
| Connection | XLR & USB |
| Function | Dynamic |
| Our Rating | 4.3/5 |
User Experience
Users often mention that the sound is amazing and it looks really good in their streams. The Shure MV7 has unmatched utility as a dual-connection mic. Despite a few minor bumps along the road, this is one of the best mics on the market.
Electro-Voice RE20
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The Electro-Voice RE20 is a dynamic microphone that has earned a loyal following among podcasters and broadcasters alike. With its ability to capture warmth, depth, and clarity in audio recordings, it stands out as a top choice for many professionals. The RE20 is smooth across a wide spectrum of frequencies, and because it's a continuously variable-D mic, it's virtually free of bass-boosting "proximity effect." This makes it an excellent all-arounder, providing great suppression of background noise and room echo, and being very forgiving of amateur mic technique.
Average Cost: $450 (check prices on Amazon)
Connection: XLR
Function: Dynamic
Pros:
- Amazing sound quality
- Great suppression of background noise
- Forgiving of amateur mic technique
Cons:
- Extremely expensive
- Requires a powerful preamp
Our Rating: 4.9/5
Samson Q2U
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The microphone that I often recommend people start off with is the Samson Q2U. This is a really versatile little beast, being both XLR and USB. It is also a significant quality increase over a cheap headset mic or your internal microphone.
Rode NT-USB Mini
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The Rode NT-USB Mini is a compact and versatile studio-quality condenser microphone, perfect for podcasters who want to record professional quality podcasts with ease. This mic is fully compatible with the free Røde Connect podcasting software for Mac and PC, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned podcasters.
Key Features
- Studio-Quality Sound: Delivers clear and professional audio.
- Compact Design: Easy to set up and doesn't take much space on your desk.
- Versatile: Can be used for podcasting, streaming, and voiceovers.
- Røde Connect Compatibility: Allows you to plug multiple NT-USB Mini mics into your computer and record them in multitrack.
Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Connection | USB |
| Microphone Type | Condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
| Included Items | Microphone, pop shield, ring mount, tripod desk stand |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Versatile: Suitable for various recording needs.
- High-Quality Sound: Produces professional-grade audio.
- Easy to Use: Simple setup process.
Cons:
- USB Only: Limited to USB connection.
- Price: One of the pricier USB-only options.
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB
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The Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB is quite easy to name as the top choice for most podcasters' needs. It's on the lower end of what most podcasting microphones cost, delivers audio quality that's more than adequate for podcasting needs, and is one of the only mics out there with both a USB and XLR connection option!
Key Features
- Dual Connectivity: The ATR2100x-USB offers both USB and XLR outputs, making it versatile for different recording setups.
- High-Quality A/D Converter: With built-in high-quality digital conversion up to 24-bit/192kHz, it ensures excellent audio quality.
- Built-in Headphone Jack: The microphone includes a built-in headphone jack with volume control for real-time monitoring.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional Audio Quality: Its exceptional audio quality, dual connectivity, and ease of setup make it an ideal choice for beginners and a valuable tool for professionals.
- Affordable: At just $79, the ATR2100x-USB is a no-brainer for those on a budget.
- Plug-and-Play: With USB connectivity, it's a plug-and-play friendly with Mac and Windows computers.
Cons:
- Tripod Stand: The included tripod stand is not the best quality and may need to be replaced.
- Availability: Availability can vary depending on your region.
Pricing
| Feature | Details |
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| Average Cost | $80 (check prices on Amazon) |
| Connection | XLR & USB |
| Function | Dynamic |
| Our Rating | 4.5/5 |
The bottom line is that this is a fantastic podcasting microphone for the price. Whether you're the solo speaker and just want to plug in via USB and record, or need multiple of these mics to plug into a mixer, you're covered with an XLR option. The only slight annoyance is you'll probably need to toss the included tripod stand and invest in a better one. Aside from that, the Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB will have you podcasting effortlessly.
Blue Yeti
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The Blue Yeti has become synonymous with a number of different applications. From Twitch gaming to YouTube tutorials, this mic is perhaps the best known and most-recognisable out there, and for good reason. In our tests, we found it easy to use, it sounds superb thanks to its three condenser capsules, and doesn't cost the earth.
Pros
- Custom three-capsule array for clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound.
- Versatile with four audio patterns: bidirectional, cardioid, omnidirectional, and stereo.
- USB connection for easy setup.
Cons
- Yeti Needs a pop guard.
- Blue Yeti Stand is not too moveable.
Models
There are a few Blue Yeti models around, here's a quick rundown:
- Yeti Pro - Same as the Yeti, with an added XLR connection option. Substantially pricier.
- Yeti X - Same as the Yeti, slightly pricier with added features like an LED meter, smart knob, and customizable lighting.
Heil PR40
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The Heil PR40 is often touted as the go-to podcast mic for those seeking premium sound quality. Many high-level showrunners recommend it for its excellent performance in non-professional environments. However, it's important to note that this microphone requires a lot of power and an expensive preamp to avoid hiss and achieve optimal sound quality.
Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Premium sound quality
- Excellent rear noise rejection, making it perfect for recording at home
- Great fit for non-professional environments
- Cons:
- Requires a powerful preamp
- Expensive
- Some users find the sound to be unnatural with too much deep bass and not enough mid- or upper-bass
Cost and Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Average Cost | $375 |
| Connection | XLR |
| Function | Dynamic |
| Our Rating | 4.8/5 |
Final Thoughts
While the Heil PR40 is a great sounding microphone for multiple needs, it may not be the best fit for everyone. If you can, try to test it out before making a purchase to ensure it meets your specific podcasting requirements.
Rode PodMic
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The Rode PodMic is a Microphone for podcasting that stands out for its fantastic sound and high build quality. It's designed specifically with podcasters in mind, evident from its name. The build quality is amazing; it's heavy and feels like an expensive piece of gear. The PodMic will look great wherever your setup resides. However, no stand is included, but it attaches to most standard boom arms.
Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Mic type | Dynamic |
| Audio patterns | Cardioid |
| Size | 6.8 x 4.3 x 2.4 inches |
| Connection type | 3-pin XLR |
Reasons to Buy
- Fantastic sound
- High build quality
- Low price
- Internal pop filter
Reasons to Avoid
- XLR not ideal for beginners
- Stand not included
Customer Reviews
Customers appreciate the value of the microphone. They say it's the most bang for your buck, and is an excellent bundle. The Rode PodMic is rated 5.0 / 5 by 56 customers on Sweetwater, showcasing high customer satisfaction. If you need several mics for two or more speakers, a few Rode PodMics plugging into an interface like the RODECaster Pro will be a professional-level setup you won't soon outgrow.
AKG Lyra
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The AKG Lyra is a strong competitor to the Blue Yeti, offering similar features such as multiple polar patterns and an in-built stand. To my ear, it actually sounds better than the Yeti, but it can be harder to pick one up, depending on where you are in the world. If they are available in your region, and you’d like to find out more, then have a read of our full AKG Lyra review.
Neumann U87
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The Neumann U87 is a legendary microphone that has been a staple in professional studios for decades. Known for its exceptional sound quality and versatility, this mic is a top choice for serious recordists. The U87 is a tripolar, side-address, large diaphragm condenser microphone that excels in capturing vocals and instruments with stunning clarity and detail. Its ability to handle high sound pressure levels makes it suitable for a wide range of recording applications, from voiceovers to orchestral recordings.
Conclusion
These are the best podcasting microphones we've tested. All models are aimed at serious podcasters seeking professional audio quality. Even if you're just podcasting for fun, starting with high-quality sound will help you separate yourself from podcasters using gaming headsets or AirPods. Although those work in a pinch, nothing can replace a high-quality podcasting mic as you'll boost the listening experience and grow your audience with a good-quality podcasting mic. But where to start? All microphones are not created equal. From the all-in-one convenience and software features of USB microphones and the variety and quality that XLR mics can provide to excellent-sounding compact portable microphones, there is always one perfect for your needs. We have done a deep dive into some of the best podcast microphones around, and believe us, the waters are deep. Here are some of our favorites for a variety of budgets and uses. The best podcast mic is one that works seamlessly with your podcasts format (in the studio or out and about), will allow you to get the best sound for your budget, and offers versatility with its connections. We have just scratched the surface here with our picks, but hopefully you must have found one that suits your needs or gives you a better idea of what to look for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is a good podcast microphone important?
Investing in a good podcast microphone is crucial because it ensures high-quality audio, which can significantly enhance the listening experience and help grow your audience. Poor audio quality can be distracting and may turn potential listeners away.
What should I consider when selecting a podcast microphone?
When selecting a podcast microphone, consider factors such as audio quality, connectivity (USB or XLR), build quality, and your specific recording environment. Your budget and the microphone's compatibility with your equipment are also important considerations.
What is the best overall podcasting microphone?
The Shure MV7 is often regarded as the best overall podcasting microphone due to its excellent audio quality, versatility, and ease of use. It offers both USB and XLR connectivity, making it suitable for various recording setups.
Which microphone is best for a budget under $100?
For a budget under $100, the Samson Q2U is a great option. It offers good audio quality, durability, and both USB and XLR connectivity, making it a versatile choice for beginner podcasters.
Can I use multiple USB microphones for podcasting?
Yes, you can use multiple USB microphones for podcasting. For example, the Rode NT-USB Mini allows you to run multiple mics into the Rode Connect software, making it easier to manage multiple audio sources.
What is the best microphone for an echoey room?
For an echoey room, dynamic microphones like the Electro-Voice RE20 or Shure SM7B are recommended. They are less sensitive to background noise and can help minimize the effects of room echo.
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