9 Best Podcast Microphones for 2022

The Blue Yeti mic was released back in 2009. It’s a legendary (cryptozoology pun fully intended) name in audio circles, and well-deservedly so!

The Yeti is beloved because of its simplicity. It’s a USB podcast mic that you can just plug in and play — no installation required. That makes it perfect for recording podcasts, interviews, gaming, vocals, and musical instruments without having to fiddle around with drivers or software. 

It’s Mac and PC compatible, so no worries on that front.

Overall, the Yeti is a small but heavy microphone. It also comes with a sturdy desk stand so that you can adjust its position. The mic alone weighs 1.2 lbs, and the stand is 2.2 lbs. If you’re thinking of switching up the default mic stand, keep in mind that you’ll need one that can support such weight.  

Now, let’s talk about features.

What makes the Blue Yeti such a versatile podcast recording microphone is its multiple pattern selection. It has three condenser capsules with four polar patterns: 

• Cardioid — picks up sound directly at the front


• Bidirectional — picks up sound from two opposite sides of the mic


• Omnidirectional — picks up sound from all directions at the same time


• Stereo — provides a clear separation of left and right channels.

You can record in all conditions with such capacity, though cardioid is the recommended mode for podcasts. 

The accompanying Blue VO!CE software lets you play around with advanced effects, voice modulation, and HD audio samples.

This podcasting microphone also has some nice little practical touches: 

• Built-in headphone volume controls, along with a 1/8’’ jack 


• Gain control for adjusting the sensitivity


• Mute button with an LED indicator.

All in all:

For the fair price of $129.99, the Blue Yeti is a brilliant podcast microphone for beginners.

The 2014 Rode NT-USB is a sophisticated choice that combines convenience with high audio quality. As a plug-n-play USB mic, it doesn’t require any additional audio equipment or drivers. It’s compatible with PC, Mac, and iPad.

It’s designed primarily for voice-overs and podcasts. That doesn’t bode well for NT-USB’s versatility, but it makes up for such with exceptional audio clarity.

This modest side-address microphone is fit for any desk. It weighs 1.15 lbs and comes with a tripod and ring mount. A 20’ USB cable is also part of its default equipment.

A mic for podcast recording is only as good as its features. So, let’s have a look!

The Rode NT-USB has a premium-quality 0.50’’ condenser capsule. It only supports a single polar pattern — cardioid. That makes it ideal for solo vocal recording but unsuitable for interviews or ambient sounds.

This model has a couple of tricks up its sleeve, though. These elements make it a strong contender for being the best USB microphone for podcasting. 

It comes with a detachable pop filter. The pop filter softens the explosive sharpness of consonants like T, P, and B. The pop shield lets you get really close to the mic and play around with the proximity effect.

There’s a convenient knob for on-mic mix control. Additionally, you can easily adjust the monitoring level and mix between your microphone input and source output. 

The NT-USB comes with a 1/8’’ headphone jack, so you can hear your voice spoken with zero latency.

All things considered, it’s one of the best podcast microphones for under $200 — $167, to be precise. Both beginners and podcasters who are a bit more serious about their craft will be more than pleased.

The 2019 ATR2100x is a top entry-level podcast mic, plain and simple. Don’t be fooled by its humble price tag! This Audio Technica model is an absolute powerhouse. 

It’s a hand-held dynamic microphone, fit for both live performances and intimate podcasting settings. 

Thanks to its dual USB-C/XLR output, it stands out from the USB mic crowd. You can simultaneously plug it into your computer and mixer, for example.

This versatile budget podcast mic also comes with an analog to digital converter. You can count on 24-bit high-fidelity audio, with up to 192 kHz.

Generally speaking, it’s a pretty light model, made with portability in mind. It weighs only 0.6 lbs and comes with a foldable tripod desk stand.

The ATR2100x-USB comes with three cables:

• 6’6” USB-C to USB-C 


• 6’6” USB-C to USB-A


• 9’8” XLRF to XLRM.

By design, its 120° cardioid pattern picks up front vocals and reduces side and back noise. To make the best use of this USB podcast mic, you will have to get up close and personal.

Another stand-out aspect is its fantastic sound quality. The ATR2100x-USB deftly works the frequency response range of 50Hz-15kHz. Many users claim in their reviews that its sound is comparable to microphones three times its price. 

It also has a 1/8’’ headphone jack and volume control. That way, you can directly monitor your mic input. 

Finally, its low price is the cherry on top! For around $100, this Audio Technica model is a real bargain. It combines flexibility, accessibility, and great sound — what’s not to love?

The iconic SM7B is often considered a vocalist’s dream mic. But, it doubles as a remarkable Shure podcast microphone. The 2001 model has been at the top of its game for decades now.

Here’s why.

The SM7B is a dynamic mic aimed at professionals. Everything about it suggests that, from the build quality to the price tag. 

You also need some serious equipment to pair it with. After all, it does sport an XLR connector and impedance of 150 Ω. It will fit perfectly in a podcast studio with a quality audio interface and preamp. 

At a glance, it’s a sleek yet sturdy device. It weighs 1 lb and has a solid enamel,  aluminum, and steel case. 

This Shure podcast mic comes with a pre-installed pop filter and shock mount. For two reasons, this is great. First, you can minimize the harshness of plosives whenever talking close to the mic. And second, you can reduce unwanted ambient sounds like clicking, hitting your desk, typing, etc.

Also included with the mic is a locking yoke mount, foam windscreen, and detachable close-talk windscreen. As such, you don’t need to buy any extra gear, except perhaps a boom arm.

But, the SM7B’s shining moment is the crystal-clear vocal reproduction. Even Michael Jackson relied on its predecessor’s powers to record Thriller. The powerful cardioid polar pattern ignores off-axis noise and focuses on your voice only. It makes the SM7B one of the finest microphones for podcast recording. 

And there’s more:

This mic has three switches to alter frequency responses:

• Bass roll-off — accentuates the lower ends 


• Flat — maintains a neutral, natural sound


• Presence boost — emphasizes mids and treble.

The flat setting is ideal for podcast recording. Overall, the frequency range is a respectable 50Hz-20kHz. 

You can have the complete set,  including all the noise reduction accessories, for $399.

In 2007, Rode released its first USB mic. The Rode Podcaster microphones were a smash hit. Soon enough, the Procaster followed as a Rode XLR variant — and the rest is history.

This is a highly specialized model for voice-overs, broadcasts, and podcasts. It’s dynamic and made for a broadcast environment. It’s also an XLR microphone, so your sound will depend significantly on your preamp, digital recorder, or mixer setup.

If you’re looking for something you can simply plug into your computer, this isn’t your product. A USB Rode podcast mic, like the NT-USB, would be a better fit in that case.

The Rode Procaster is a solid device. Its all-metal case weighs 1.64 lbs. This model is made to last. It even comes with a one-year warranty that you can easily extend to 10 years. All that’s needed is to register your purchase for free on the Rode website.

The microphone comes with a ring-mount stand, but you’ll probably want to invest in a desk mount or boom arm. It has an internal pop filter and shock mounting, which is a great touch. This combination should minimize unwanted sounds.

Like all good podcast mics, the Rode Procaster employs a cardioid pickup pattern. It’s designed for solo, directional use while blocking out exterior sounds. It’s also worth noting that this is an end-address type of mic. You will have to talk into the top of the microphone and not from the side to achieve the desired results.

As a dynamic mic, it’s a bit less sensitive than its condenser colleagues. Still, that kind of nuance isn’t crucial for recording podcasts. As it is, the 75Hz-18kHz frequency response will be more than enough for your needs.

At $224, this quality device is worthwhile for any podcaster looking to elevate their recording process.

An exceptional podcast XLR microphone doesn’t have to be a Shure, Rode, or Neumann one. Heil might be a relatively lesser-known brand, but its attention to detail rivals industry leaders.

The Heil PR-40 will treat both vocals and a wide range of instruments correctly. It’s awe-inspiring on sonically challenging instruments, like bass guitars, acoustic guitars, and kick drums.

This mic stands out because of its looks. At a glance, you might think it’s just a typical condenser side-address microphone. 

Actually, it’s a dynamic end-address one! Home recording podcasters will, without a  doubt, greatly benefit from such due to far too often inadequate soundproofing. A dynamic microphone for podcast recording won’t pick up every little noise from your neighborhood.  

Its steel body comes in various colors, like black, champagne, chrome, and gold. Despite its bulky aesthetics, it’s relatively light, at 0.84 lbs.

The PR-40 is stunning on the inside, too. It has an internal breath blast filter that softens sibilance and plosives. The 1’’ diaphragm is surprisingly light and shock-mounted. 

The rear rejection is also notable. You can freely use two mics in close proximity without any feedback noise.

But, the thing that makes the Heil PR-40 one of the best mics for podcasting is its balanced performance across all ranges. Vocals sound smooth and natural, without any boominess. Keep in mind that the cardioid polar pattern picks up your voice effortlessly.

Heil’s frequency response is also unexpected for a dynamic microphone — 28Kz-18kHz! Lower ends are satisfyingly warm and vibrant without being overpowering. The mids and treble are nuanced yet neutral. 

The PR-40 is very versatile, but it shines on percussions and vocals. The price varies depending on your pick of casing and details. The plain black PR-40 costs $329, while the fancier gold and chrome models cost $399.

Released in 2020, the MV7 is a relatively fresh addition to the Shure podcast microphone collection. It’s a superb dynamic cardioid mic for podcasters, gamers, and streamers alike. It suits both casual creators and those who are very hands-on with their recording process. 

One of its most attractive features is the dual USB/XLR output. 

You can use both outputs simultaneously, which is an efficient time-saver. The Shure MV7 includes two 10’ cables: Micro-B to USB-C and Micro-B to USB-A. An XLR cable isn’t part of the deal.

The MV7’S minimalist aesthetic conceals its true capabilities as a podcasting microphone. It’s got a sleek touch panel with LED lights indicating gain levels and mute status. It’s also fitted with a 1/8’’ headphone jack in the back.

And that’s not all.

To fully experience this mic, you have to download the free desktop app — ShurePlus MOTIV. With numerous settings at your fingertips, this mic beats many expectations.  Your voice signature and mic position, for example! 

You may choose between three voice tones: dark, natural, and bright. The natural setting is considered best for podcasting purposes.

And you can switch between your Shure podcast mic alignment presets: near, far, or wherever you are.

Generally speaking, there are two modes of operating within the app. 

Auto Level Mode “lets your mic do the work for you,” as Shure puts it. All you need to do is set your preferred sound signature and distance from the microphone — and you’re finished. The MV7 will automatically adjust your levels as you’re recording.

The Manual Mode, on the other hand, allows for total control during your mic record session. You are free to fiddle with your gain, monitor mix, limiter, compressor, equalizer, and more.

You can tailor this smart model to meet all your audio needs for $249.

The Q2U is known as a novice podcaster’s best friend. It’s a welcome addition to anyone’s starting setup. And with its less than $100 price tag, it will certainly fit your budget. Best of all: the Samson Q2U won’t outgrow its usefulness as you develop your podcasting skills.

Now, let’s see what makes it such a hit.

This budget podcast mic is dynamic with a cardioid polar pattern. This bodes well for your overall recording success for several reasons. 

First, it’s more durable than a condenser microphone. It aptly handles heat and humidity - setting you free to use on your mobile podcasting adventures. You can even pair it with your iPhone or iPad.

Second, a dynamic cardioid mic is more forgiving of noisy recording environments. The Q2U is overall less sensitive than its condenser brethren. But, that also means it will pick up fewer unwanted sounds.

Third, it doesn’t require phantom power. When using a condenser microphone for podcast recording, you have to pair it with mixers and preamps with a phantom power feature. Meanwhile, a dynamic model like the Q2U can work with a broader range of audio interfaces.

The Samson Q2U is also an XLR/USB model. It has the best of both worlds, output-wise. 

You can just plug it into your computer via USB and record. Or, if you have the gear and technical know-how, you can put its XLR output to use. On top of that, it also comes with a 1/8’’ headphone output.

The bundle includes XLR/USB output cables, a mic clip, windscreen, and a desktop tripod stand with an extension piece.

A cheap podcast microphone like this can benefit from a windshield. It will protect your mic from wind currents and breath blasts.

All in all, the Samson Q2U is practically a steal for $59.99.

The Rode PodMic is a small but powerful mic - bringing studio-level quality to all recording environments. You can guess its primary purpose by its name.

Yup, this is a podcast, broadcast, and essentially speech-oriented dynamic XLR microphone. It’s not a highly versatile model that will excel in countless situations, like recording instruments or field recordings. But, if you’re in the market for a specialized podcast XLR microphone — this is the one!

This device is quite robust and made to last. That’s obvious as soon as you take hold of the Rode PodMic. 

Its solid, all-metal construction and stainless steel mesh grille truly inspire confidence. And at 2.06 lbs, it’s not to be taken lightly.  

Its exterior features an integrated pop filter and shock mounting. Those parts will help you combat every podcast’s peskiest foes: harsh plosives and vibrations. With the correct precautions, you can avoid such and save yourself from time-consuming editing. 

When it comes to additional auxiliary equipment, this Rode podcast mic is relatively humble. It comes with a swing clip and nothing else. The clip feels stable and is compatible with table-top stands, boom arms, and mic stands.

Moving on to audio quality, the Rode PodMic is a delight to work with.

Its cardioid pickup pattern will define your voice with ease. And thanks to the pop filter, you can get close to it and achieve that warm, old radio tone. Just make sure to talk into the right end, as it is an end-address microphone.

The frequency response range is a very satisfying 20Hz-20kHz. It manages to capture sound without coloring it, the way only good mics for podcasting do. And you won’t even have to tweak it too much when finished recording! 

The biggest surprise is the price, though. The Rode PodMic costs $99, making it perfect for anyone looking to go analog without paying too high of a fee.