best xlr microphones for podcasting

If you're serious about podcasting, you'll eventually land on XLR. Not because it's fancy — because it works. XLR microphones connect through an audio interface (like a Focusrite Scarlett or GoXLR), giving you cleaner signal paths, gain control, and the ability to scale to multiple hosts without fighting USB bandwidth.1

The trade-off? You need an interface and a cable. But once you're set up, the upgrade in sound quality and flexibility is immediate.

Here's our guide to the best XLR microphones for podcasting right now, categorized by what they do best.

dynamic vs. condenser: what's the difference?

Before we get into picks, a quick note on mic types.

Dynamic microphones (like the Shure SM7b and Electro-Voice RE20) reject background noise beautifully. They're less sensitive, which means they won't pick up your chair creaking or the AC humming. Ideal for untreated rooms and multiple-person recordings.1

Condenser microphones (like the Audio-Technica AT2020) capture more detail and high-end clarity. They're great for solo podcasters with a treated space, but they'll pick up everything — including the dog barking two rooms away.4

Polar patterns matter too. Most podcast mics use cardioid (heart-shaped pickup), which captures sound from the front and rejects from the sides and rear. That's what you want for a single speaker. Some mics offer multiple patterns for roundtable setups.

the picks

1. shure sm7b — the industry standard

Best for: Professional podcasters who want the sound.

The Shure SM7b is everywhere for a reason. It's the mic you hear on Joe Rogan, and it's been the gold standard in broadcast for decades. Its dynamic capsule delivers a warm, present vocal tone with excellent noise rejection. It handles plosives well without a separate pop filter.1

One thing to know: the SM7b needs a lot of gain. You'll want a strong preamp or a Cloudlifter to get clean levels. Factor that into your budget.

2. electro-voice re20 — the broadcast legend

Best for: High-end studio setups and rich, resonant vocals.

The Electro-Voice RE20 has a famously loyal following among radio hosts and podcasters. It offers a deeper, richer tonal character compared to the SM7b, with excellent off-axis rejection. The Variable-D design minimizes proximity effect, so your voice stays consistent even if you move around a bit.2

It's pricier and heavier, but if you want that buttery broadcast sound, this is it.

3. samson q2u — the best value entry point

Best for: Beginners who want XLR now, USB flexibility later.

The Samson Q2U is our favorite podcast mic of all time for one simple reason: it does both XLR and USB.3 Start with USB if you don't have an interface yet, then switch to XLR when you're ready to upgrade. Same mic, no repurchase needed.

It sounds genuinely good — warm, clear, and quiet. The build is solid, and it comes with a basic desk stand and pop filter. For the price, it's almost unfair to the competition.

4. audio-technica at2020 — the crisp condenser

Best for: Solo podcasters with a treated room who want detail.

The AT2020 is twenty years old and still going strong.4 It's a side-address condenser that captures a crisp, articulate vocal — great for narration, solo shows, or voice work. At this price point, it's tremendous value.

Just remember: it's a condenser. You'll want a quiet room and a pop filter. If you have both, this mic punches well above its weight.

5. shure sm58 — the durable workhorse

Best for: Mobile podcasters, interviews, and rough environments.

The Shure SM58 is famously indestructible. It's the mic you see at every live show and pub gig, and it translates beautifully to podcasting. It's a dynamic cardioid with a tailored vocal presence boost that cuts through noise.5

If you record on the go — in hotel rooms, at conferences, or outdoors — the SM58 will survive drops, spills, and general chaos. It's not the most refined sound, but it's reliable every single time.

quick comparison

which one should you buy?

• If you want the best all-around sound and have a decent interface: Shure SM7b.
• If you want that rich radio voice and have the budget: Electro-Voice RE20.
• If you're just starting out and want room to grow: Samson Q2U.
• If you record solo in a quiet room and want clarity: Audio-Technica AT2020.
• If you're always on the move and need a tank: Shure SM58.

Disclosure: AskBuy earns a small commission if you purchase through the links above. We only recommend gear we'd use ourselves, and our picks are based on expert research — not affiliate deals.