There’s never been a better time to get into podcasting. And if you’re serious about sounding good, then you’ll need a great microphone. That’s where Sweetwater can help. We compiled a list of the best podcast microphones to help you narrow down your choices. Whether you’re just starting out or a podcast veteran, the end goal remains the same. Make yourself sound good! While there are other variables at play for creating a successful podcast, the importance of the mic you choose cannot be understated. We’ve included both USB podcast microphones and XLR microphones, so no podcaster gets left out. Read on to learn which microphones we consider the best for podcasting.
Note: At Sweetwater, we know there’s no such thing as “best” when it comes to music gear. Every player and artist has unique tastes, which is what makes selecting gear so fun! The items on this list feature some of our favorite products from top manufacturers to help you start your buying journey! Explore these recommendations and dive into Sweetwater’s massive collection of gear on our online store. For personalized picks and expert advice, please contact our knowledgeable Sweetwater Sales Engineers at (800) 222-4700!
- Best USB Microphones for Podcasting
- Best XLR Microphones for Podcasting
- Best Dynamic Microphones for Podcasting
- Best Budget Microphones for Podcasting
Best USB Microphones for Podcasting
Blue Microphones Yeti Multi-pattern USB Condenser Microphone
Crystal clear recordings any way you choose
The Blue Microphones Yeti USB is among the most popular podcasting microphones at Sweetwater. For starters, it features four selectable polar patterns, including cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, and stereo — boasting rich sound no matter your environment or intended capture. Useful features include a mute button, headphone volume control, and threaded microphone mount to further bolster the versatility of this mic. If you plan on taking your podcast’s content down multiple avenues, then you can’t go wrong with a Yeti USB.
Sennheiser Profile USB Microphone Streaming Set
Sleek, yet functional streamin set
Looking to get your voice heard? A good place to start is with a stellar mic and the Sennheiser Profile USB microphone streaming set is just what you need. With onboard, controls, real-time LED feedback, and an easy plus-and-play design, the Profile is a beginner’s dream mic set up. The streaming set comes loaded with a cardioid condenser mic that delivers studio-quality sound, a self-locking boom arm, and a stylish mic pouch for easy portablility. From podcasting to gaming and more, the Sennheiser Profile USB microphone streaming set has everything you need to make your dreams a reality.
Shure MV7+ Hybrid Podcast Microphone
Inspired by Shure’s classic SM7B, reimagined for podcasting
Inspired by the iconic SM7B, the Shure MV7+ Hybrid Podcast Microphone is an immediate standout. It features a cardioid pickup pattern, compatibility with the ShurePlus MOTIV app, an Auto Level Mode, and Voice Isolation Technology. Likewise, an onboard touch panel gives you immediate control over your settings — not to mention onboard DSP for interesting sound sculpting. Best of all, it includes both a USB and XLR output along with headphone output, making it an excellent addition to your rig whether you’re running analog or digital.
RODE PodMic USB Dynamic Broadcast Microphone
Budget-friendly broadcast mic with onboard DSP
If you’re looking for industry-grade audio at a friendly price, then you’ll love what the RODE PodMic USB microphone has in store. With onboard DSP, digital USB-C and analog XLR outputs, plus a built-in pop filter, you’ll have the essentials for an excellent recording at hand. The dynamic capsule performs in tandem with a precise Revolution preamp to provide clear, consistent vocals — perfect for podcasting, music vocals, and much more. Even when hooked up to your rig, the mic’s zero-latency headphone output ensures an accurate read of your sound at all times.
Sennheiser Profile USB Microphone
Sharp profile, stellar sound
Simplicity is the key ingredient when it comes to the Sennheiser Profile USB microphone. Feel free to take this mic anywhere, thanks to its solid metal construction and road-ready design. Likewise, easy-access mix, volume, and gain controls are immediately available for fine-tuning in any recording scenario. The microphone comes complete with LED indicator lights, a 3.5mm headphone output, and a table stand for instant use in your home or mobile workstation.
Apogee HypeMic for iPad, iPhone, Mac and Windows
USB mic with studio-quality sound and functionality
Looking for a podcast microphone but want to stand out from the crowd? Look no further than the Apogee HypeMic! This cardioid USB microphone is specialty made for podcasters, home recordists, and content creators who need to setup a recording session seamlessly. The HypeMic delivers top-shelf audio capturing with its mic preamp, AD/DA converters, and built-in compressor that you can adjust on the fly. And best of all: the HypeMic is compatible with Mac, Windows, iPad, and iPhone, so all you have to do is plug it in and play — no configuration required! If you are looking for a high-quality USB mic that is easy to use and setup, then the Apogee HypeMic is for you.
Best XLR Microphones for Podcasting
Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone
Shure’s iconic vocal broadcast microphone
The Shure SM7B cardioid dynamic microphone has been a leading choice of vocalists for years. As it turns out, the microphone’s switchable passive EQ control extends its use to the podcasting table. Likewise, an internal suspension and shockmount system keeps obtrusive vibrations to a minimum, all while ensuring easy movement for the perfect angle on your subject. You can’t go wrong with a classic — with a Shure SM7B microphone in your arsenal, you’ll be well-equipped for a range of industry-grade podcasting scenarios.
Shure SM7dB Active Dynamic Microphone
An amped-up podcasting legend
The Shure SM7dB dynamic microphone retains the quality and versatility of its older sibling with one important upgrade: built-in active electronics. Equipped with bypass functionality and +18dB/+28dB selectable preamp gain settings, the SM7dB supplies competitive vocal versatility and performance. If you’re searching for the classic sound of an SM7B with immediate suitable output for your recording setup, then the SM7dB is the way to go.
Electro-Voice RE20 Dynamic Broadcast Microphone
Infuse your podcast with Variable-D power
The Electro-Voice RE20 microphone is a studio and broadcast legend at Sweetwater. Its cardioid polar pattern and large-diaphragm dynamic performance make it one of the clearest microphones on the market with amazing noise rejection. Likewise, EV-exclusive Variable-D technology makes the RE20 virtually immune to proximity effects, making it a valuable addition whether you intend to record vocals, broadcast dialogue, or live performances.
RODE NT1 5th Generation Condenser Microphone
The all-in-one NT1
If you’re looking for an all-inclusive broadcast mic package, then the RODE NT1 5th Generation condenser microphone is an excellent option. Featuring the microphone, a shockmount, a pop filter, cables, and a carrying case, you’ll have all you need to effectively mic up your podcast in no time flat. Plus, its 4dBA self-noise provides all the high-quality RODE sound required to maintain a professional-sounding show.
Earthworks ICON Pro Broadcast-quality XLR Streaming Microphone
Exceptional vocal capture and durability
Built to produce that signature studio mic sound, the Earthworks ICON Pro XLR microphone is an excellent choice for livestreaming, content creators, podcasters, and much more. Like other mics on this list, it features a cardioid polar pattern that covers an ultra-wide 20Hz–30kHz frequency response — capturing every detail of dialogue in your performance. This small-diaphragm condenser is perfect for up-close vocal capture and fares well in a variety of studio environments, thanks to a sturdy steel frame. If you’re looking for an XLR mic built specifically for dialogue-heavy content, then the ICON Pro is for you.
Best Dynamic Microphones for Podcasting
RODE PodMic Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone
Tailor-made for RODECaster content
It’s obvious that the RODE PodMic cardioid dynamic microphone is made for podcasting due to its superior compatibility with the RODECaster Pro console. The microphone comes complete with a built-in pop shield and handles proximity exceptionally well, making it among the best dialogue mics on the market. Plus, its swing-arm mounting capabilities and versatile positioning options make it effortless to integrate and move around in your existing podcast setup.
RODE Procaster Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone
RODE-designed podcasting dynamo
The RODE Procaster microphone is perfect for podcasting with extra emphasis on vocal capture and quality for excellent-sounding spoken content. The mic harbors exceptionally low operating noise and includes an internal pop filter to keep your dialogue free from obtrusive pops. With its voice-enhanced low-cut filter and 180-degree rejection, the Procaster is among the most high-performing dynamic microphones we offer.
Universal Audio SD-1 Standard Dynamic Microphone
Handsome podcast mic for Apollo interfaces
The fat, rich sound of the Universal Audio SD-1 dynamic microphone is popular among many Sweetwater podcasters. It’s especially useful when utilized in tandem with the Universal Audio Apollo interface because the SD-1 provides a selection of Channel Strip Presets. On its own, the SD-1 performs with boosted presence and significant articulation, all of which are supported by the microphone’s internal shockmount and windscreen, which keep additional noise to a minimum. Best of all, the SD-1 comes in a sleek modern housing, making it a good-looking addition to your podcast should you want to include video.
Best Budget Microphones for Podcasting
Audio-Technica AT2035 Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Superior sound with high-value features
Good microphones don’t necessarily cost a lot of money. Take the Audio-Technica AT2035 large-diaphragm microphone, for example. It includes several coveted features, such as an 80Hz highpass filter, a 10dB pad, and a custom shockmount, all at a very affordable price. Its specifically designed diaphragm ensures smooth sound and low external noise, which goes head-to-head with many contemporary high-dollar microphones. Audio-Technica is king when it comes to high-quality products at fair prices — the AT2035 is no exception.
PreSonus PD-70 Dynamic Cardioid Broadcast Microphone
All of the quality, none of the disturbance
If the PreSonus PD-70 dynamic broadcast microphone is about one thing, then it is about delivering crisp vocals without the obtrusion of outside noise. This extremely versatile mic sports a cardioid polar pattern and tailored frequency response that specifically targets exactly what needs to be heard while keeping plosives and hum out of the mix. It comes complete with a windscreen and swivel mount, and it’s extremely durable, so it’s sure to stand the test of time whether you’re working in a professional studio or home environment.
Choosing the Best Podcast Microphone
Whether you’re just getting started with podcasting or wanting to upgrade the microphones in your existing setup, Sweetwater’s got the gear you need! Give your Sweetwater Sales Engineer a call at (800) 222-4700, and tell them about your content creation goals and vocal style. They’ll match you with the perfect podcast microphone and get you on the track to creating quality content in no time at all.
