Looking for the perfect podcasting microphone to take your podcast to the next level? Look no further than our top picks for every budget and level. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned pro, having the right microphone is crucial to capturing every word and delivering high-quality audio to your audience.
Podcasting has become a massive medium in recent years, with voices from all over the world telling stories, conducting interviews, and sharing knowledge on a vast range of topics. From music to science to comedy, there’s a podcast out there for everyone. Fortunately, getting started in podcasting doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. All you need is a reliable microphone, a computer or laptop to record into, and some basic audio editing software. And of course, you’ll need something to say!
To help you choose the right microphone for your needs, we’ve tested and reviewed a range of options, from budget-friendly picks to high-end studio mics. And if you need more guidance, be sure to check out our buying advice section for everything you need to know.
So what are you waiting for? Scroll down to see our top picks and start creating your own amazing podcasts today!
10 Best Microphones for Podcasting
Here are the ten best microphones for podcasting:
Best USB Mic for Serious Podcasters
#1. Shure MV7
- USB OR XLR CONNECTIONS - Dual USB/XLR output allows digital or analog recording
- CLOSE MIC APPLICATIONS - Great for podcasting, recording, live streaming, and more
- INTUITIVE TOUCH PANEL CONTROLS - Intuitive touch panel for control over gain,...
The Shure MV7 is a dynamic microphone that comes with both USB and XLR connections, making it a versatile option for podcasters and content creators. The microphone has a high-end design and build, which adds to its appeal for those looking for a professional-grade microphone. One of the standout features of the Shure MV7 is its versatility. It can be used with both USB and XLR connections simultaneously, making it easy to use in a variety of settings. Whether you’re recording on-the-go with a laptop or working in a home studio environment, the MV7 is up to the task.
The microphone also comes with Shure’s MOTIV app, which can help improve the quality of your recordings in real-time. This app adds a professional touch to your recordings, making them sound even better. While the Shure MV7 may be more expensive than some other options on the market, the quality and functionality of the microphone make it a worthwhile investment.
With its high-end design and versatile connections, the Shure MV7 is a top choice for podcasters and content creators looking for a reliable and professional-grade microphone.
Specialist Mic for Focused Speech
#2. Rode Procaster
- Dynamic Microphone with XLR Connection
- Cardioid Polar Pattern
- Low Self Noise
The Rode Procaster is a specialist vocal microphone that’s built for work. It’s a dynamic microphone that features a cardioid polar pattern, which means that it captures sound from in front of the microphone while rejecting sound from the sides and rear. This makes it ideal for podcasters who record in noisy environments or for broadcasters who need to isolate their voice from the background noise.
The Procaster has a rugged build, which makes it ideal for field recording and for use in high-pressure situations like live broadcasts or interviews. It also features a high-output dynamic capsule that delivers a powerful, clear signal that’s free from distortion. This is particularly important for podcasters who record in noisy environments, as it ensures that their voice will be heard above the background noise.
One feature that sets the Procaster apart from other microphones on this list is its shock mounting. The mic has an internal shock mounting system that helps to isolate it from handling noise and vibrations. This makes it ideal for use in field recording and for podcasters who need to move around while recording.
Overall, the Rode Procaster is an excellent microphone for podcasters and broadcasters who are looking for a high-quality, rugged microphone that’s specifically designed for vocal recording.
Best Podcast Mic for iPhone
#3. Shure MV88+ Video Kit
- iOS, ANDROID* & DESKTOP COMPATIBLE: Supplied Lightning and USB-C cables allow for...
- HEADPHONE MONITORING: Built-in headphone output for real-time headphone monitoring
- APPLE MFi CERTIFIED: Made for iPhone/iPad/iPod certified for direct connection to...
If you’re looking for a microphone to use for podcasting on your iPhone, we recommend the Shure MV88+ Video Kit. This compact and versatile microphone offers excellent audio quality and a range of useful features that make it ideal for recording podcasts on-the-go. The MV88+ comes with a variety of accessories, including a windscreen, a phone clamp, and a tripod stand, making it easy to set up and use in any situation. It also features a built-in headphone jack, which allows you to monitor your audio in real-time and make any necessary adjustments on the fly.
In terms of audio quality, the MV88+ delivers exceptional results, thanks to its wide frequency response and adjustable polar patterns. Whether you’re recording solo or conducting interviews, this microphone will capture every nuance of your voice and produce clear and natural-sounding audio.
Overall, the Shure MV88+ Video Kit is an excellent choice for anyone looking to record podcasts on their iPhone. With its compact size, versatile features, and high-quality audio, it’s a must-have tool for any serious podcaster on-the-go.
More info on vlogging with iPhone in the following article: Top 5 iPhone Vlogging Kits to Vlog Like a PRO!
Professional-Quality Podcast Mic on a Budget
#4. Rode PodMic
- Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone with Integrated Pop Shield
The Rode PodMic is a broadcast-quality dynamic microphone that’s optimized for podcasting. It’s an affordable option that doesn’t compromise on quality, offering rich, balanced sound and exceptional results in all voice recording applications. Whether you’re recording a solo podcast, interviewing guests, or hosting a livestream, the PodMic delivers professional results that your listeners will love.
One of the standout features of the PodMic is the integrated pop filter that reduces plosives, making the microphone very forgiving to use. Internal shock mounting also reduces rumble and keyboard noises, while the dynamic capsule focuses on the sound of your voice, reducing room tone and other external sounds. As a result, you’ll get clear and focused sound, even in less-than-ideal recording environments.
The PodMic is also highly versatile, working well with any XLR mixer or interface. However, it really shines when paired with the RodeCaster Pro Podcast Production Studio, as a custom PodMic preset, coupled with the studio-grade APHEX processing, gives exceptional results. The microphone’s rugged all-metal construction and black finish add to its professional look and feel, making it a great addition to any home recording setup.
With its affordability, ease of use, and exceptional sound quality, the PodMic is a top choice for podcasters and livestreamers alike.
Classic Dynamic Microphone for Clear & Natural Sound Reproduction
#5. Shure SM7B
- ONE MICROPHONE FOR EVERYTHING - Studio Recording, Home Recording, Podcasting and...
- STUDIO VOCAL RECORDING - The SM7B’s Dynamic Cartridge With Smooth, Flat, Wide-range...
- PODCAST and BROADCAST - Found In The Top Podcasting Studios Around The World, The...
The Shure SM7B is a unidirectional dynamic microphone with a cardioid polar pattern that is highly recommended for podcasters and voiceover artists. This microphone is a favorite among professionals in the recording, radio, and television industries for its exceptional sound quality and versatility.
With a flat, wide-range frequency response, the Shure SM7B can capture both music and speech with natural and clear reproduction. Its bass rolloff and mid-range emphasis controls, complete with a graphic display, allow for customizable sound settings. The microphone also features improved rejection of electromagnetic hum, making it optimized for shielding against broadband interference emitted by computer monitors.
The Shure SM7B’s internal “air suspension” shock isolation reduces mechanical noise transmission, while its highly effective pop filter eliminates the need for additional protection against explosive breath sounds. The microphone now ships with the A7WS detachable windscreen, which helps reduce plosive sounds and gives a warmer tone for close-talk vocals. The yoke mounting with captive stand nut provides precise control of the microphone’s position, while its classic cardioid polar pattern ensures maximum rejection and minimum coloration of off-axis sound.
Overall, the Shure SM7B is a classic dynamic microphone that delivers exceptional sound quality and versatility for recording, radio, and television applications. Although it may be a little heavier on the pocket, it is a worthwhile investment for those seeking a professional-grade microphone for their podcast or voiceover work.
Versatile USB Mic for Professional-Grade Sound
#6. Blue Yeti
- Custom Three-Capsule Array: Produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for...
- Blue VOICE Software: Craft the perfect broadcast vocal sound and entertain your...
- Four Pickup Patterns: Flexible cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup...
Blue Yeti is a high-quality, professional USB microphone that delivers clear, broadcast-quality sound for a variety of applications, including YouTube videos, Twitch game streaming, podcasting, Zoom meetings, and music recording. This microphone is easy to use and has a range of features, including four pickup patterns, onboard audio controls, and a positionable design that allows you to optimize sound quality by pivoting the mic in relation to the sound source.
One of the standout features of the Blue Yeti is its multiple pattern selection. You can choose from cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns, which makes it ideal for recording group sessions, where a single mic is placed in the middle of a table. Additionally, the Blue Yeti comes with the Blue VO!CE software that offers enhanced effects, advanced modulation, and HD audio samples to elevate your streamings and recordings.
The only downside to the standard Blue Yeti is that if you need an XLR connection, you’ll need to purchase the Blue Yeti Pro, which is more expensive than the standard Yeti. However, Blue has expanded its range to include higher-spec models capable of dual USB/XLR output (Blue Yeti Pro), a smaller scale version (Blue Yeti Nano), and even a model with functionality specific to game streamers (Blue Yeti X). Overall, the Blue Yeti is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a high-quality, versatile microphone that is easy to use and delivers excellent sound quality.
Affordable, Versatile Podcasting Microphone
#7. Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB
- Handheld dynamic microphone with USB-C digital output and XLR analog output. Durable...
- Usb output connects to your computer (Windows and Mac) for digital recording, While...
- Built-in headphone jack lets you monitor directly from the microphone with dial on...
The Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB is a versatile and affordable microphone suitable for podcasting, video conferencing, singing, karaoke, and other content creation applications. This dynamic microphone features both USB and XLR outputs, making it easy to connect to your computer for digital recording or to a sound system’s conventional microphone input for live performance. It also includes a high-quality analog-to-digital converter with 24-bit, up to 192 kHz sampling rate for excellent fidelity.
One of the standout features of the ATR2100x-USB is its cardioid polar pattern, which reduces pickup of unwanted sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of the desired sound source. This makes it ideal for use in noisy environments or for recording multiple sources in close proximity. Additionally, the low-mass diaphragm provides excellent frequency response, delivering a clear and natural sound with minimal distortion.
The ATR2100x-USB also comes with a built-in headphone jack that allows for direct monitoring from the microphone, with a dial on the bottom that lets you adjust the headphone volume. This is a convenient feature for podcasters and other content creators who want to monitor their audio in real-time. The microphone also includes a sturdy tripod desk stand with folding legs for easy setup and transport, as well as three cables (USB-C to USB-C, USB-C to USB-A, and XLRF to XLRM) for maximum versatility.
Overall, the Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable microphone for content creation.
Best Budget Microphone for Podcasting & Beyond
#8. Samson Q2U
- Best of both worlds: professional handheld dynamic microphone with USB digital output...
- Sound your best: dynamic microphone capsule with a cardioid pickup pattern captures...
- Hear the mix: onboard 1/8" (3. 5mm) headphone jack allows for zero-latency...
The Samson Q2U is a versatile and affordable microphone that is perfect for podcasting, singing, and karaoke. This microphone features both USB and XLR connectivity, making it easy to connect to a computer or mixer. The dynamic microphone capsule with a cardioid pickup pattern captures sound from in front of the microphone, reducing ambient noise and feedback.
The Q2U also includes a headphone jack for zero-latency monitoring, allowing you to hear yourself without any delay or echo. It has a solid, die-cast construction with a heavy gauge mesh grille, ensuring durability and longevity. The Q2U is a plug-and-play device, so it doesn’t require any special drivers to work with your computer.
Overall, the Samson Q2U is a great option for podcasters and musicians who are looking for an affordable and versatile microphone. With its dual USB/XLR connectivity, dynamic microphone capsule, and zero-latency monitoring, the Q2U is perfect for home recording, voiceover work, and live performance settings.
Best Condenser Microphone for Podcasting
#9. Audio-Technica AT4053B
- Specially engineered to meet the most critical acoustic requirements of professional...
- Hypercardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear,...
- Direct-coupled, balanced output results in a clean signal even under high-output...
The Audio-Technica AT4053B is a versatile and high-quality microphone that is specially engineered for professional recording, broadcast, and sound reinforcement. Its hyper-cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, which improves the isolation of the desired sound source. Additionally, the direct-coupled, balanced output provides a clean signal even under high-output conditions, resulting in a transparent and open reproduction of even the most difficult-to-capture instruments.
The AT4053B features switchable 80 Hz hi-pass filter and 10 dB pad, making it a versatile studio performer that can be used with confidence in a wide variety of professional miking applications. The microphone is fully RoHS-compliant, which means it is free from all substances specified in the EU directive on the reduction of hazardous substances.
Overall, the Audio-Technica AT4053B is an excellent microphone that offers superior sound quality and versatile performance for a variety of professional recording and broadcasting applications.
Best Unidirectional Microphone for Podcasting
#10. Electro-Voice RE20
- Professional quality dynamic cardioid microphone with studio condenser-like...
- The classic sound of FM radio voices with smooth, natural, and controlled sonic...
- The Variable-D design and heavy-duty internal pop filter excel for close-in voice...
The Electro-Voice RE20 is a dynamic cardioid microphone that has been a go-to choice for professionals in the broadcasting and podcasting industries for decades. With its classic sound and studio condenser-like performance, this microphone is a top-quality choice for any kind of voice recording. It is also widely used in music production as an instrument microphone.
The RE20 microphone has a unique Variable-D design that reduces proximity effect, making it ideal for close-up voice work. Its heavy-duty internal pop filter is also very effective at reducing plosives and other unwanted sounds. Furthermore, the microphone has an internal element shock-mount that reduces noise caused by vibration.
The RE20 has a unidirectional polar pattern, which means that it is highly directional and picks up sound from mainly one direction. This makes it ideal for use in situations where you want to isolate the sound source and reduce ambient noise. Overall, the Electro-Voice RE20 is a versatile and reliable microphone that is perfect for podcasters, broadcasters, musicians, and anyone else who demands top-quality sound recording.
Best Microphones for Podcasting: FAQs
Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions regarding best microphones for podcasting:
Q. How many microphones do you need for a podcast?
A. The answer to this question depends on the format of your podcast. If you’re recording a solo show, a single microphone is all you need. However, if you plan to have guests or co-hosts, you’ll need multiple microphones to ensure everyone is heard clearly.
Q. What are the best microphones for podcasting?
A. There are many great microphones on the market, but some of the top picks for podcasting include the Shure SM7B, Rode Procaster, Blue Yeti, Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB, and Samson Q2U.
Q. Which one is the best microphone for podcasting on iPhone?
A. If you want to record a podcast on your iPhone, the Shure MV88+ Video Kit is an excellent option. This compact and versatile microphone offers excellent audio quality and a range of useful features, including a windscreen and tripod stand.
Q. Which one is the best condenser microphone for podcasting?
A. If you’re looking for a high-quality condenser microphone for podcasting, the Audio-Technica AT4053b is a great choice. This microphone delivers exceptional audio quality and is highly versatile, making it ideal for a wide range of podcasting applications.
Q. Which one is the best omnidirectional microphone for podcasting?
A. For podcasters who need an omnidirectional microphone, the Blue Yeti is a top pick. This microphone offers excellent sound quality and a versatile design that works well for both solo and group recordings.
Q. Which one is the best microphone for podcasting on Mac?
A. If you’re recording your podcast on a Mac, the Blue Yeti USB microphone is an excellent choice. This microphone delivers high-quality audio and is easy to set up and use with your Mac.
Q. Which one is the best microphone for podcasting at home?
A. For podcasters recording at home, the Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB is a great option. This microphone offers excellent audio quality and a simple, plug-and-play design that makes it easy to set up and use.
Q. Which one is the best microphone for podcasting under $100?
A. If you’re on a tight budget, the Samson Q2U is an excellent microphone that won’t break the bank. This microphone offers good audio quality and a versatile design that works well for a variety of podcasting applications.
Which Podcast Mic Will You Choose?
Choosing the best microphone for podcasting can be a daunting task, but with the above list, we hope we have made the process a bit easier for you. It is essential to consider your budget, recording environment, and intended use when selecting a microphone. For professional podcasters and broadcasters, the Shure SM7B and Electro-Voice RE20 are excellent choices. They offer superior sound quality and advanced features such as internal shock mounts, pop filters, and hum reduction technology.
For those on a tight budget, the Samson Q2U offers excellent value for money without compromising on quality. These microphones are suitable for beginners and those looking to record in a home studio.
Ultimately, the best microphone for podcasting is the one that best suits your needs and budget. We hope that this list has helped you in your search for the perfect microphone, and we wish you all the best in your podcasting endeavors!
Don’t miss 13 BEST (Affordable) Cameras for Podcasting.
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