Content creation has now become one of the most popular trends of the decade, with the internet spreading its wings far and wide, bringing more and more people from different parts of the world under one umbrella. To add to this chain of web content, a podcast is a relatively new but amazing tool to share your ideas and stories with the world, but only with the best podcasting microphones in your setup.
A podcast is known to deliver content solely in audio format, a perfect match for today’s busy world. Whether on a commute or going about with your daily chores, podcasts supply the content you need without having to invest your precious time.
However, since audio is the core part of podcasts, you cannot escape investing in a quality microphone for the perfect recording. Thus, with more and more podcasts coming up on the internet, the top brands have brought in the best podcasting microphones befitting your needs.
To help you find the best podcasting microphone, we tested over 50 podcast microphones over 7 weeks and shortlisted 10 microphones that really impressed us.
In this guide, we’ll review each of the below listed best podcasting mics in detail, list their pros and cons, discuss things you should focus on while buying a podcasting mic, and answer some frequently asked questions about podcasting mics.
Roundup of the Best Podcasting Microphones
| Best Microphone for Podcasting at Home | Audio-Technica AT2020USB + Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone |
| Best Podcasting Microphone for Beginners | Elgato Wave 3: USB Condenser Microphone and Digital Mixer |
| Best Computer Microphone for Podcasting | TKGOU USB Microphone |
| Best Condenser Microphone for Podcasting | PreSonus Revelator USB Condenser Microphone for Podcasting |
| Best Dynamic Microphone for Podcasting | Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone |
| Best Vocal Microphone for Podcasting | Rode Procaster Broadcast Dynamic Vocal Microphone |
| Best XLR Connector Microphone for Podcasting | Shure MV7 USB Podcast Microphone |
| Most Versatile Podcasting Microphone | Rode NT-USB-Mini |
| Most Portable Microphone for Podcasting | Samson Go Mic Portable USB Condenser Microphone |
| Best Microphone for Live Streaming | Blue Yeti X Professional Condenser USB Microphone with High-Res Metering |
Why You Need A Good Podcasting Microphone
Unlike content like YouTube videos or blog posts, podcasts lack the visual interface, depending wholly on audio to deliver engaging content to the world. According to research, these days, Podcasting has become a major phenomenon within both our society and our educational system. Hence, the audio recording quality majorly governs the quality of the podcast. And to upgrade this quality, investing in the best podcasting microphone on the market is an inevitable choice. In the next section, we’ll discuss different factors you should consider while looking a good podcasting mic.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Podcasting Microphone
Selecting the most appropriate microphone that can meet all the expectations can be quite of a challenge. How do you know which podcasting mic to invest on for the best results? Well, here are some factors you must keep in mind while picking the best mic for your podcasts and recordings.
Type of Microphone
Whether to select a more sensitive and high-frequency response USB Condenser microphone or to go for a more compact, easy-to-use, and pocket-friendly Dynamic mic?
The decision depends on the type of voice recording you need in your podcast. Is it the delicate vocals or loud audio? Is it the softer sounds or a more energetic setting? What does your podcast demand?
Condenser Mic vs Dynamic Mic
High-frequency response is stronger with condenser mics than with dynamic mics. This gives condensers a clean, informative sound; however, for podcasters who record at home, this can be a problem.
You risk picking up too much of the shhh sound from air vents or additional sounds from the lips and tongue while using a condenser mic. Dynamic microphones, like a camera’s soft-focus filter, automatically mask these disturbances.
Frequency Response
A low-frequency response works the best for bass recordings but not for highly sensitive, soft vocals that need a broader frequency response. What is your podcast all about? Choose wisely according to the type of recording you are looking forward to.
Directional Property
Is it unidirectional, bi, or omnidirectional? Like a unidirectional speaker, a unidirectional mic is an excellent choice for personal recordings, as it picks up sound only from the direction the mic is facing.
In contrast, the bi and omnidirectional microphones are good for capturing the voices of multiple people in a room, as in reporting or broadcasting. But it may pick the static and unnecessary background noise, leading to a disturbing audio quality.
Pop Filter
A pop filter, also known as a pop shield or pop panel, is a noise-cancelling microphone filter that is commonly used in recording studios. During recorded speech and singing, it reduces or eliminates popping sounds caused by the mechanical effect of fast-moving air on the microphone from plosives.
It’s good to buy a podcasting mic with pop filter if you want clear vocal output. In microphones, plosives sound louder than they do in the real world. So, while you don’t need to have a pop filter in your back pocket every time you sing, you will need one while recording vocals. In condenser mics, plosives are particularly harsh.
Durability
While looking for a good podcasting mic, you must consider its durability. Dynamic mics are more compact and durable compared to the big-budget USB-Condenser mics that are prone to damage by any shock or shove.
Connector (XLR vs USB)
On the one hand, plug-and-play podcasting mics such as USB podcasting mics are convenient to use. On the other hand, XLR podcasting mics provide better audio quality and are more versatile. Even though your choice will depend on your requirements, and both XLR and USB podcast mics are great, here are a few reasons why the best podcast mics have XLR connectors:
- They can work with non-digital setups
- They can change components; the same is not possible with USBs
Price
Now, podcasting is an art you must put your heart, soul, and skills in to succeed, then why go less on money? Turning to cheaper options is alright if you do not end up compromising on quality. Quality is the currency of podcast microphones. Hence, keep this as the last deciding factor to influence your purchase.
Top 10 Podcasting Microphones in the Market
Let’s now look at the detailed reviews of the 10 best podcast mics on the market right now:
1. Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone
Best Microphone for Podcasting at Home
- Delivers high-quality sound
- Convenient built-in volume and mix controls
- Compatible with various platforms like Windows 7, Mac OS X, and Vista
- Perfect for digital recording with USB output
- Sturdy build
- Comes with 2-year warranty
- Does not comprise a pop filter; you need to buy one separately if you want
Audio Technica has brought in one of its best products that provide users with the best sound quality and audio experience with the AT2020USB+Cardiod Condenser USB Microphone. But what makes it a part of the top 10 podcasting microphones in the market today? It is one of the best condenser mics with a USB connector.
Firstly, the AT2020USB mic comes with a built-in headphone jack and volume control that help you check the microphone signal during the recording process. There is an internal headphone amplifier that provides amazing sound volume and quality.
This microphone is so much better than what we expected. We tested it with Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams, YouTube, and Garageband, and it worked well in every scenario. However, the output wasn’t great in the case of JamKazam.
Secondly, superb audio quality with special mix control allows you to merge the microphone recording with pre-recorded audio to make your podcasting experience easier and enjoyable. It’s software is also easy to install. The cable is a little over 2 m in length and allows easy plug and play connectivity.
To conclude, Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone is the best choice for digital recordings, owing to its superb sound quality and volume control, making it the best podcasting microphone at home. The most critical aspect of this microphone is its quality. We recommend purchasing a sturdy microphone stand (if possible, a boom microphone floor stand) to make it even more convenient to use this microphone. Also, please note that this microphone is not a noise-canceling microphone.
View on Amazon: Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone
2. Elgato Wave: 3 USB Condenser Microphone and Digital Mixer
Best Podcasting Microphone for Beginners
- Delivers good quality audio
- Picks up speech precisely
- Provides digital mixing solutions, along with the best recording experience
- Comes with a USB output for easy digital recording
- Comprises superior circuitry to allow better audio transmission
- Designed keeping in mind the anti-distortion technology
- Does not comprise acoustic echo cancelation features
- Requires extra software for sound cancelation
- Does not comprise a pop filter; you need to buy one separately if you want
The Elgato Wave: 3 USB Condenser Microphone and Digital Mixer is a great combination of streaming, recording, and mixing function for a pleasant podcast audio quality. This microphone has done a great job of combining the prerequisites of a podcast recording into one single product. Let’s have a look at its world-class features that make it one of the best podcasting microphones.
Firstly, along with using the mic for quality audio recording, it allows the use of the Wave Link app to mix and merge different audio, acting as a great digital mixer. The range and audio quality are so good that the microphone could pick up our voices even when we were standing in the corner of the room.
The wave mixer software is a blessing. It allows you to mix all your audio into one source. One of our team members used this microphone for delivering drum lessons over Zoom, and the session attendees did not experience any issues with regards to the overall audio clarity and quality.
We also used this microphone for streaming on Twitch, and the overall experience was great. With the right settings, your team players or opponents cannot even hear your keyboard or mouse clicking, when you’re in Discord or streaming.
Secondly, a good built, great design, and the plug-and-play feature for the user’s convenience make it a good choice. This microphone is easy to set up and use. It’s perfectly balanced for gaming, streaming, video calls, and more.
In conclusion, the Elgato Wave: 3 – USB Condenser Microphone and Digital Mixer offers an easy podcasting experience with the combined features of digital audio mixing, streaming, recording, and play-and-plug control to help beginners ace the art of podcasting. If you’re looking for excellent stability, you can purchase the Elgato mic stabilizer and pop filter too.
View on Amazon: Elgato Wave: 3 – USB Condenser Microphone and Digital Mixer
3. TKGOU USB Microphone
Best Computer Microphone for Podcasting
- Delivers clear and crisp audio
- Easy plug-and-play connectivity
- Eliminates any static noise
- Available at a relatively reasonable rate
- Comes with a tripod stand, pop filter, and shock mount for versatile use
- Not portable
TKGOU has come up with one of the most affordable and good-quality podcasting microphones of all times. It works like a dream for podcast recordings.
It is also perfect for gaming and video calls. The TKGOU USB Microphone is indeed one of the best podcasting microphones on the market right now.
Firstly, the cardioid polar pattern allows the computer microphone to capture the voice well while suppressing the background sounds.
Moreover, the frequency response is extended to enhance the sound quality. Speaking over the microphone, instead of into it, produces excellent audio quality. We did not experience any crackling in the sound; it was even and detailed.
Many teachers are also using this microphone along with the best headphones for online learning and teaching for virtual sessions. Many remote workers are using it too.
Secondly, other products like tripod stands and pop filters sold in combination with the microphone give the podcast recording the required boost.
The tripod is nice and stable. You can adjust it based on your comfort level. We set up the microphone pretty easily. You hardly need to do anything if you’re using it with Windows 10. Simply plug in the microphone in the USB port and you’re ready to go.
To conclude, TKGOU USB Microphone is a must-try for people looking for quality podcast mics at lower prices. The overall set up is easy and the computer instantly recognizes the microphone. Thanks to the pop filter, you can use this microphone for an array of situations. This microphone completely eliminates background noises and delivers clear and crisp sound.
View on Amazon: TKGOU USB Microphone
4. PreSonus Revelator USB Condenser Microphone
Best Condenser Microphone for Podcasting
- Delivers professional audio quality
- Comprises built-in voice effects setting with 8 different presets
- Provides controls over volume, headphones, mute, and mic gain
- Comes with UC surface software mixer
- Compatible with Mac OS and Windows
- Relatively expensive
- Does not comprise a pop filter; you need to buy one separately if you want
The PreSonus Revelator USB condenser microphone is a go-to purchase for podcasting, voice-overs, streaming, and interviews. You can use it for your home office too. It’s reliable and worth every dollar you invest in it.
Firstly, the microphone comes with a loopback mixer to blend the audio from different platforms and applications, and the microphone recording.
You’ll be surprised to learn that you don’t need to use a software for digital mixing; the microphone’s hardware comprises two loopback streams.
Secondly, Revelator comes with professional software for high recording quality on the podcast. The overall construction of this microphone is solid. The complete unit is heavy enough to stand on the desk, without any support.
The basic functions are available in the microphone itself. However, if you want to access advanced features, we recommend installing the drivers to get access to the Universal Control software panel. You’ll also get the Studio Artist software with PreSonus.
To conclude, PreSonus Revelator USB Condenser Microphone is an easy-to-use, professional USB condenser microphone with convenient mixers and presets that can take your podcast to the next level. It works with both OSX and Windows. We did not experience any issues whether we were using this microphone with Zoom, computer recording, interview recording, and so on. It is the perfect USB microphone for switchable omnidirectional and bipolar cardioid.
View on Amazon: PreSonus Revelator USB Condenser Microphone
5. Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
Best Dynamic Microphone for Podcasting
- Delivers clear and natural sound
- Easy to set up and use
- Accurate and versatile
- Value for money
- Superior-quality build
- Perfect for streaming, recording and voiceovers
- Comprises highly effective pop filter
- We did not experience any issues with this podcasting microphone
If you’re planning to buy a dynamic podcast mic, we suggest checking the Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone.
While many podcasters feel like it is overhyped, we believe otherwise. We really like the dynamic microphone type. It is perfect for recording loud and strong vocals.
Unlike Shure SM58, SM7B comprises thinner and more sensitive capsule elements. However, since it is a dynamic microphone, it does not comprise a preamp and is not as sensitive as a condenser microphone.
Firstly, this microphone delivers a broad and flat frequency range for natural and clean reproduction of music and speech. This podcasting mic delivers excellent sound and the bass is balanced. The audio recording patterns mimic SM58’s presence-boosting curves.
Secondly, the pop filter is extremely effective and eliminates loud breath sounds. Therefore, you won’t face any disturbances during audio production.
This microphone comprises an XLR connector, and is easy to set up and use. The overall construction of this microphone is excellent.
In conclusion, the Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone is a fantastic podcasting mic. When set up properly, it provides clear and crisp audio. Shure SM7B is versatile and accurate. This microphone’s natural sound deserves tons of appreciation. It is indeed one of the best dynamic microphones for podcasting out there. The overall quality of this podcast mic, like all other Shure equipment, is top notch.
View on Amazon: Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
6. Rode Procaster Broadcast Dynamic Vocal Microphone
Best Vocal Microphone for Podcasting
- Delivers clear and crisp audio without any shrillness
- Extremely sturdy construction; built to last
- Reliable podcast mic
- Suitable for recording, narration, interviews, and more
- Comprises internal pop filter to reduce plosives
- Heavy
The Rode Procaster Broadcast Dynamic Vocal Microphone is one of the best vocal microphone and an extremely reliable broadcast microphone. It perfectly eliminates background voices and produces clear broadcast audio.
Firstly, the construction of the Rode Procaster Broadcast Dynamic Vocal Microphone is excellent. The podcasting mic is made to last.
It’s extremely well built with a metal exterior. Having a quality mount stands help a lot during a podcast.
Secondly, this microphone is fantastic for voiceover, any type of broadcasting/radio application, and podcasting. It does not comprise any fancy buttons.
In simpler words, it is perfect for every application where a superior sounding, rugged microphone with great ambient noise is required.
In conclusion, the Rode Procaster Broadcast Dynamic Vocal Microphone is extremely versatile for different types of voices. The noise level it generates is pretty controlled. This microphone is so sturdy that it feels bullet proof. Therefore, keep in mind that the microphone is extremely heavy so you need a solid base to hold it.
View on Amazon: Rode Procaster Broadcast Dynamic Vocal Microphone
7. Shure MV7 USB Podcast Microphone
- Good frequency response and enhanced sound quality
- Comes with voice-isolation technology
- Allows flexible connectivity options – USB/XLR connection
- Touch panel controls the volume, muting, and headphone sound mixing
- Sturdy; complete metal design
- Comprises preinstalled headphone output; allows headphone monitoring
- Sound capturing level is relatively low
Shure could not have come up with a better microphone to give the best results in your podcast recordings. This is what makes it the best podcasting microphone.
It provides noise isolation, comprises intuitive touch controls, and whatnot. We tested this microphone with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Twitch, and GarageBand, and we did not experience any issues whatsoever.
Firstly, this microphone allows you to customize the recording with touch control panels, and the presets for mic positioning to record a new shape.
The design of the Shure MV7 USB Podcast Microphone reduces background noises, and ensures clear audio. After all, dynamic microphones are great at rejecting background noises. You don’t need to keep it very close to your mouth when you’re speaking.
Secondly, the ShurePlus Motiv Desktop application gives the user access to Auto-Level Mode settings for audio processing, as well as the gain and compression settings, and allows adjusting the tone of audio settings. Both the app and auto mode work perfectly. The accompanying software is effective and easy to use.
To conclude, Shure MV7 USB Podcast Microphone is one of the best choices for your podcast startup. The mic ensures professional recordings with user-friendly features, to add a personal touch to your story. You can use it both as a USB and an XLR microphone. This microphone is perfect for professional recording. The overall audio quality can blow your mind.
View on Amazon: Shure MV7 USB Podcast Microphone
8. Rode NT-USB-Mini
Most Versatile Podcasting Microphone
- Delivers clear, crisp, and natural-sounding audio
- Easy to set up and use
- Pocket-friendly price
- Portable; comes with a detachable magnetic stand
- Durable and sturdy
- Comprises a built-in pop filter and amplifier for audio monitoring
- Does not comprise volume controls
The Rode NT-USB-Mini Microphone is like a tiny powerhouse of value and versatility. This podcasting mic can be used for both professional and casual podcasting. It is compact yet robust. You can use it with both PC and tablet for recording.
Firstly, we really liked the audio quality produced by this mic. It is excellent for the mic’s price point. The audio output is clear, crisp, and precise.
While it offers a cardioid polar pattern, many podcasters also use this mic for general use. This mic is typically designed for up close usage. For more distant recording, the volume is low.
Secondly, the Rode NT-USB-Mini is compact yet heavy. This little thing is deceptively heavy. It is a flexible and high-quality podcasting mic. It comprises a metal framework to ensure robustness. The build quality is really impressive for the price.
In conclusion, the Rode NT-USB-Mini Microphone is a fantastic, low-price podcast mic for podcasting, studio recording, video calls, and streaming. This little monster works as good as the other options on our list. It also comprises a built-in pop filter and amplifier for monitoring your audio. However, it is heavy and does not comprise volume controls. It also comprises a headphone out option.
View on Amazon: Rode NT-USB-Mini Microphone
9. Samson Go Mic Portable USB Condenser Microphone
Most Portable Microphone for Podcasting
- Portable and easy to use
- Plug-and-play feature is available
- Compatible with both Windows and OSX
- Compact design with a USB output
- Offers quality, professional audio
- No noise cancelation feature
- Does not comprise a pop filter; you need to buy one separately if you want
Samson Technologies has made the life of users easier with this portable USB condenser mic, just what the fast-paced world requires today! What else makes it one of the best microphones for podcasts? It is a simple plug and play microphone. You can use it for gaming, recording podcasts, recording commentaries, and so on.
Firstly, the microphone is portable and fit for any professional recording or streaming directly on computers. It is convenient to use and carry around.
The overall sound quality of this compact microphone is great. It works perfectly with both OSX and Windows. There is no compromise on the quality of the recording, as the extended frequency response offers great audio.
Secondly, the microphone has a variety of settings. You can choose to pick up sound from just one side of the microphone or pick up ambient noise.
To conclude, the Samson Go Mic Portable USB Condenser Microphone is your best mate on the road to your success, with an easy-to-carry design and quality features. It is also one of the most affordable pocasting mics on our list. One of our team members even used this microphone for their in-car PC setup. She clipped the microphone to her steering wheel. There were two switchable mic settings to choose from, cardioid and omnidirectional pickup patterns.
View on Amazon: Samson Go Mic Portable USB Condenser Microphone
10. Blue Yeti X Professional Condenser USB Microphone with High-Res Metering
Best Microphone for Live Streaming
Blue Yeti has brought in the Professional Condenser USB Microphone to make your recording easier and more personal.
This microphone not only looks great but also provides excellent functionality. We used it for podcasting, interview recordings, streaming, video conferencing, and whatnot. Blue Yeti worked perfectly in every scenario, especially with live streaming. Therefore, it is one of the best microphones for live streaming.
Firstly, Blue Yeti has an installed four capsule array for four different pick-up patterns to level up the sound quality. It clearly records warmer and crisper voices. However, it can go a bit lower in the low frequency range. The overall audio quality delivered by this microphone is good.
Secondly, Blue Yeti microphone allows brilliant customization with LED lighting, vocal effects, volume, and mute adjustments.
To conclude, the Blue Yeti professional condenser microphone is a versatile microphone for live streaming as well as podcasting. It is perfect for those looking for a durable professional microphone. It also comprises a convenient mute button.
View on Amazon: Blue Yeti X Professional Condenser USB Microphone with High-Res Metering
Frequently Asked Questions About Podcasting Microphones
There is no single mic that is the most suitable for all the users who wish to record a podcast today. What may work the best for a person largely depends on the type of recording (vocals, interviews, etc.), criteria to be fulfilled in a particular podcast, and what is more convenient for the user himself/herself.
As already mentioned toward the beginning of the guide, XLR podcast mics are more reliable than USB podcast mics. However, USB podcast mics are easier to connect and use. The sound quality of both USB and XLR mics is nearly similar.
It will depend on the number of speakers participating in the podcast. Each participant will need a good podcast mic (mostly an XLR mic) and the best podcast headphones. Also, you’ll need a USB audio interface or mix with multiple XLR inputs for connecting all the podcast mics.
A dynamic mic can be a better choice for picking up loud vocals and strong sounds (e.g. drums), or if you are trying to capture the recordings of multiple people in a room. It is less sensitive than condenser mics, thus better for a livelier set-up in a room like loud music or vocals. Moreover, they are available at relatively affordable rates compared to condenser mics.
Condenser microphones, being more sensitive, can capture sounds with higher frequency and softer or more delicate tones. They offer an extended frequency response and a higher transient response to make the audio quality quite satisfactory. However, these need an external power source to work, unlike compact dynamic mics. Therefore, even though they’re good for podcasts, your first priority should be dynamic mics.
A quality microphone is one of the essential prerequisites for starting a successful podcast. A podcast, essentially being a complete audio experience, must ensure that it focuses on audio and sound quality to attract and engage the target audience that can enjoy your podcast. Unfortunately, the built-in computer mic does not provide even half the required quality. Therefore, you need the best podcasting microphone.
Final thoughts
This was our list of the best podcasting microphones on the market today. We have attempted to include the best mics to cater to varying needs and demands. Nevertheless, if we were to recommend a single model, we would go for the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone.
The product offers the commendable sound quality, an in-built volume, and mix controls and available with the headphone jack to monitor the recording throughout the podcasting session. These impressive features are worth the cost!
However, it is up to you to select the best mic for your podcast.
Do you have any questions? You can ask us.
