The Best Podcast Microphones of 2021
Ahhh 2021, you couldn’t have come fast enough. While this year has brought lots of changes, some things have remained consistent, including most of our favorite microphones. That’s right, the Samson Q2U and ATR2100x continue to be the microphones we recommend to our clients most often. That being said, some new contenders have entered the scene this past year and are worth trying out. Whether you are just starting out on your podcasting journey or are looking to upgrade to take your audio to the next level, we have the very best microphones for every level and price range.
✴ Samson Go Mic
This mic connects directly to your cell phone and is small enough to be carried pretty much anywhere. It is also a condenser mic, which means that it will pick up multiple speakers, but it also might pick up some background noise...so try to find a quiet spot to record.
For the cost ($40), it is a great alternative to using your Apple headphones or speaking directly into your phone. You will notice a big difference in quality if you’ve been recording your podcast directly to your cell phone or computer!
✴ Rode SmartLav+
This probably doesn’t look like most podcast microphones you’re used to seeing. That’s because this is a lavalier mic, which means it clips directly to your shirt. This is a very no-fuss mic because it is small, lightweight, and easy to transport. If you have a podcast that requires lots of field reporting, or you are constantly traveling with your mic, this might be a great alternative to a microphone with a stand.
Even though it looks small, it is definitely mighty. The sound quality is very impressive and reflected in the price - $64. We use this mic for YouTube video recording and really love it.
✴ Samson Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone
This is the best low-cost microphone for beginners, full stop. It’s a dynamic microphone, which means it will help to reduce the background noise of your space. You need to keep the mic close to your mouth to get that crystal clear sound though. It has both a USB and XLR connection allowing the mic to grow with you.
Your headphones connect directly to the mic, so you can control your volume as your record. At $60, the Samson Q2U comes with a USB cable, XLR cable, and table stand - a great deal for the price. You will want to purchase a foam ball windscreen for optimal quality.
✴ Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB Cardioid Dynamic USB/XLR Microphone
Audio-Technica came out with a new and improved model of their best-selling mic - the ATR2100x. This mic comes in at just under $100 ($99 to be exact) making it an affordable option for podcasters at every level. Like the Q2U, this microphone is dynamic and has both an XLR & and USB connection. One notable feature is the mic stand - pretty snazzy looking. The other update is it has a new USB-C connection vs the original USB. If you have a newer computer with the USB-C port, your sound quality will improve by not having to convert through a dongle. Once again, make sure you purchase a foam ball windscreen.
✴ Rode PodMic Cardioid Dynamic Podcasting Microphone
The PodMic is a slightly more advanced mic because it only has an XLR connection. This means that it does not plug in directly to your computer but instead requires an intermediary device like a mixer or interface. The PodMic costs $100, which is incredible for its quality, but you will also have to invest in the interface, so keep that in mind. It comes with a shock mount for each attachment to a boom arm. The beauty of this mic is it was made exclusively for podcasting, so you know it is going to get the job done right.
✴ Shure MV7 USB Podcast Microphone
One of the most legendary podcasting (and general broadcasting) microphones is the Shure SM7B. Unfortunately, this mic can be unattainable for most podcasters because of the high price tag and XLR connection.
Shure recently came out with a NEW microphone designed specially around these issues. Meet the MV7 made especially for streaming and podcasting. It is nearly HALF the price at $249 and has both an XLR and USB connection. For podcasters looking for quality and flexibility, the Shure MV7 should be on your list!
✴ Heil PR-40
On the higher range of both quality and price, The Heil PR-40 is used by many top podcasters including Amy Porterfield and Andrew McGivern.
This mic has an XLR connection and requires an interface or mixer to connect to your computer. It is also a dynamic microphone, which is our favorite for reducing background noise and producing crisp-sounding audio.
The mic itself is priced at $330, but you will have the best experience when you also use a shock mount, boom arm, and pop filter.
✴ Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone
Some would argue that this bad boy is the best podcast mic in the biz. We use the SM7B in OUR very own studio. We love it because it's a dynamic microphone which means it helps reduce background noise. It is optimized for podcasting with an easy-to-connect boom arm stand - ideal for hands-free speaking. Lastly, it is weighted and comes with two different pop filters.
This mic is on the pricer end at about $400, but you can be assured that your quality will sound just like your favorite NPR show. Many recommend purchasing a Cloudlifter or preamp to power the SM7B as it is notoriously “gain-hungry”.
If you want a super-specific list of ALL the podcasting equipment we recommend based on your experience level and price range, try our mini guide to the best equipment and software here.
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