Podcasts are booming, and more and more people are getting into the world of podcasting. Whether you're looking to start your own show or upgrade your current setup, having the best podcast microphone is crucial. After all, your listeners need to hear you clearly, and the right microphone can make a world of difference. In this post, I'll take you through some of the best microphones for podcasting and give you all the information you need to make the best choice.

Why Choosing the Best Podcast Microphone Matters
Imagine this: you're recording your podcast, and everything is going great. You have great content, you’ve planned your episode perfectly, and you're ready to hit "publish." But then, when you listen back, you realize that your audio sounds terrible. Maybe there's background noise, or your voice sounds muffled or too quiet. This is where the right podcasting mic comes in.
The best microphone for podcasting can help eliminate background noise, capture your voice with crystal-clear clarity, and create a professional sound that will make your listeners feel like they’re right there with you. A good microphone can truly elevate the quality of your podcast, and that’s what I’m here to help you with.
The Best Podcast Microphones for Every Type of Podcaster
There are several factors to consider when picking out the best microphone for podcasting. Some of these factors include your budget, the kind of podcast you’re recording, and whether you plan to podcast solo or with guests. To help make things easier, I've rounded up some of the best microphones for podcasting based on different needs.
1. Shure SM7B: The Classic Choice for Podcasters
When it comes to choosing the best podcast microphones, the Shure SM7B is a fan favorite. It’s a dynamic microphone that offers great sound quality and has been used by many professionals in the industry. Whether you're recording in a quiet studio or a noisy room, this mic does an excellent job of rejecting ambient noise.
I personally love the Shure SM7B because of its versatility. It’s perfect for solo podcasters or those with guests, and it’s been used by some of the most popular podcasters out there. The sound quality is rich and clear, making it an ideal choice for anyone serious about their podcast.
Pros:
- Great sound quality
- Effective at rejecting background noise and ambient noise
- Durable and built to last
- Widely used in the podcasting industry
Cons:
- Requires an audio interface or XLR cables (this is a minor setback, but worth mentioning)

2. Audio-Technica AT2020: A Budget-Friendly Option
If you’re on a budget but still want high-quality sound, the Audio-Technica AT2020 is a great choice. It’s one of the best microphones for podcasting without breaking the bank. The AT2020 is a cardioid condenser microphone, which means it captures sound directly in front of the mic, reducing any unwanted noise from the sides and back.
What I love about this microphone is how affordable it is compared to others in its class, yet it still offers fantastic sound quality. Whether you're recording solo or with guests, the AT2020 will pick up your voice clearly without adding any unwanted noise.
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality for the price
- Affordable
- Great for beginners
- Lightweight and portable
- Compatible with USB microphones and XLR mics with an audio interface
Cons:
- Not as durable as higher-end microphones
- Requires an audio interface or XLR cables

3. Blue Yeti: A Versatile USB Mic for Beginners
If you’re just getting started and want a plug-and-play microphone that’s simple to use, the Blue Yeti is one of the best microphones for podcasting. It’s a USB microphone, which means you can plug it directly into your computer without needing a separate audio interface or XLR cables. This makes it perfect for beginners or anyone who wants to keep things simple.
The Blue Yeti is popular among podcasters for its versatility. It has multiple pickup patterns, including cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional, and stereo. This means you can adjust it to suit your recording environment, whether you're recording solo, with a guest, or even in a group.
Pros:
- Easy to use (USB connection, plug and play)
- Multiple pickup patterns for different recording situations
- Great sound quality for the price
- Affordable for beginners
- No need for XLR cables or audio interfaces
Cons:
- Not as high-quality as some XLR microphones
- Sensitive to background noise, so a pop filter or boom arm might be needed

4. Rode NT1-A: The Quietest Mic in the Game
If you're looking for one of the best podcast microphones that focuses on capturing every detail in your voice, the Rode NT1-A is worth considering. This condenser microphone is known for its incredibly low self-noise, which means it picks up sound with very little interference from the environment around it.
Whether you're recording in a quiet studio or a more lively space, the Rode NT1-A offers an amazing level of clarity and detail. It’s perfect for those who want to capture every nuance of their voice, making it ideal for podcasters who want the best sound possible.
Pros:
- Extremely low self-noise for crystal-clear audio
- Excellent for voice recording
- Great for solo podcasters
- Very sensitive
Cons:
- Can pick up too much room noise if not used in a treated space
- Requires an audio interface, XLR cables, and possibly a pop filter

5. Samson Q2U: Best for Those on a Tight Budget
The Samson Q2U is one of the best microphones for podcasting if you’re on a tight budget but don’t want to sacrifice sound quality. It’s a dynamic microphone that offers both USB and XLR outputs, making it versatile for both beginners and more advanced users.
I like the Samson Q2U because it provides a professional sound at an affordable price. Whether you’re recording from home or in a studio, this microphone does a great job of delivering clear and natural audio without any distortion.
Pros:
- Dual USB and XLR connectivity
- Great sound quality for the price
- Durable and long-lasting
- Good for beginners and advanced users
Cons:
- Not as high-end as other microphones
- USB connection is not as flexible as an XLR setup with an audio interface
What Makes a Good Podcast Microphone?
When choosing the best microphone for podcasting, there are several factors to consider. Here are a few things that I always look for when deciding on a microphone for my own podcasting setup:
- Sound Quality: The most important factor is the quality of the sound. A good podcast microphone should capture your voice clearly without any distortion or muffling. Dynamic mics, for example, excel at capturing direct sound from the front of the mic and minimizing background noise.
- Durability: A podcast microphone is an investment. It’s important to pick a microphone that’s built to last and will serve you well for years to come.
- Connectivity: If you’re just starting out, a USB mic might be the easiest option. But for a more professional setup, an XLR microphone with an audio interface might be a better choice. XLR mics often deliver superior sound quality and are more versatile in the long run.
- Pickup Pattern: The microphone’s pickup pattern determines how it captures sound. For podcasts, a cardioid pattern (which picks up sound only from the front) is usually the best choice. This helps eliminate ambient noise from the sides and back of the mic.
- Budget: Finally, your budget will play a big role in your decision. There are plenty of podcasting mics available at different price points, so make sure to pick one that fits your needs and budget.
- Additional Accessories: Don't forget about essential accessories like a pop filter to reduce plosives, a boom arm for microphone positioning, and a shock mount to reduce vibrations and handling noise. These small additions can make a huge difference in sound quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best microphone for podcasting?
The best microphone for podcasting really depends on your needs and budget. Some of the top choices are the Shure SM7B, Audio-Technica AT2020, and the Blue Yeti. Each of these offers great sound quality, with the Shure SM7B being more suited for professionals, while the AT2020 and Blue Yeti are great options for beginners.
2. What is the best microphone for podcast?
For podcasters who want a high-quality microphone without breaking the bank, the Audio-Technica AT2020 and Blue Yeti are both excellent choices. They provide clear audio and are easy to use, making them ideal for beginners.
3. What microphone is best for podcasts?
When it comes to microphones for podcasts, the Shure SM7B is a top pick for professionals, offering exceptional sound quality and durability. For those just starting out, the Blue Yeti or Audio-Technica AT2020 are excellent options that won’t break the bank.
4. What are the best microphones for podcasts?
Some of the best microphones for podcasts include the Shure SM7B, Audio-Technica AT2020, Rode NT1-A, and the Blue Yeti. Each of these microphones has its own unique features, but they all deliver great sound quality for podcasting.
5. What are the best podcast microphones?
The best podcast microphones come in a variety of styles and prices, so it’s important to consider your specific needs. Whether you go for the Shure SM7B for professional quality, or the Audio-Technica AT2020 for a budget-friendly option, all of these microphones provide excellent sound for your podcast.
Conclusion
Choosing the best podcast microphone doesn’t have to be difficult. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned podcaster, there’s a microphone that will suit your needs. From the versatile Blue Yeti to the professional-grade Shure SM7B, the options are endless.
Remember to consider factors like sound quality, durability, connectivity, and your budget when making your decision. Once you find the right microphone for your podcast, you’ll be well on your way to creating high-quality content that will keep your listeners coming back for more.
And don’t forget to add those extra accessories—like a pop filter and boom arm—to really make your setup sound great!
Happy podcasting!