From comedy to food, trending news to horror stories; there's pretty much a podcast for everything. If you're thinking of starting your own podcast, you're going to need a decent podcasting microphone so your voice can be heard loud and clear.

Whether you're podcasting with a friend or on your own, there's a range of podcasting mics that will suit your requirements.

Here are the best microphones for podcasting available now.

Premium pick

1. Shure SM7B

9.80 / 10
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One of the stand-out features of the Shure SM7B is its build quality. This durable microphone for podcasting boasts incredible design and construction, as well as plentiful features that can be used for different purposes.

Toward the back of the microphone, you'll find two dip switches. These allow you to change the microphone's frequency response, cementing the notion you can use the Shure SM7B for more than just podcasting.

Thanks to the Shure SM7B's cardioid polar pattern, you'll be able to record and stream the sound you want. Electromagnetic hums from your PC case, for example, are eliminated, producing a clear sound that's imperative for podcast recordings.

Key Features
  • Eliminates mechanical noise transmission
  • Cardioid polar pattern
  • Shielding against electromagnetic hum
Specifications
  • Brand: Shure
  • Type: Dynamic
  • Pattern: Cardioid
  • Power: Corded Electric
  • Connector: XLR
  • Latency: None
  • Weight: 2.65lbs
  • Frequency Bandwidth: 50Hz - 20KHz
  • Microphones: 1
  • Capsule Size: 7mm
  • Sensitivty: 59dB
  • Dimensions: 13.3 x 7.2 x 4.8 inches
  • Included Accessories: Windscreen foam, stand adapter, cover plate, broadcast microphones
  • High Pass Filter: Yes
Pros
  • Wide-range frequency response
  • Impressive vocal reproduction
  • Strong, durable design
  • Decent on-board frequency response filters
Cons
  • Fairly expensive
Buy This Product
Shure SM7B
Editors choice

2. Rode Procaster

9.60 / 10
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The Rode Procaster boasts a switchable high-pass filter and cardioid polar pattern for unwanted noise rejection. If you're not using this microphone for vocals, then the lack of condenser really doesn't matter, offering clear audio.

Thanks to its hefty weight and durable build, the Rode Procaster is a great choice if you're looking for a solid microphone. It does make it a little less convenient for portability, but if you do take it outside, you'll appreciate the gentle hum of your environment creeping in, yet not enough to disrupt your podcast recording.

With 180 degrees of rejection, the Rode Procaster is best suited for directional use. The internal pop filter is an added bonus, but purchasing an external one definitely wouldn't be a bad choice.

Key Features
  • Dynamic microphone
  • Internal shock mounting
  • Low impedance output
  • Internal pop filter
Specifications
  • Brand: Rode
  • Pattern: Cardioid
  • Audio Sensitivity: 56dB
  • Connector: XLR
  • Weight: 1.64lbs
  • Frequency Bandwidth: 75Hz - 18kHz
  • Sensitivty: -56.0dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (1.60mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz
  • Dimensions: 11.25 x 5.4 x 2.7 inches
Pros
  • Solid build
  • Better than a USB-based setup
  • Rejects unwanted noise
Cons
  • Pretty heavy (may not be a suitable choice for portability)
Buy This Product
Rode Procaster

While you may not find all four directional modes useful, the JLab Talk USB Microphone is certainly a versatile and budget-friendly microphone for podcasting. Some may think that paying less for a microphone results in bad quality, but with this device, it's not the case.

Cardioid is ideal for individual recordings, while omnidirectional is great for group podcasts. However, the JLab Talk USB Microphone does have a tendency to pick up background noise, so it's not recommended to use it from further away. Still, the quality is pretty impressive despite the cost.

The JLab Talk USB Microphone can easily compete in the podcast microphone world thanks to its multiple recording patterns. The sound might just be beaten by some models, but if you're starting out, this is a great choice.

Key Features
  • 3.5mm AUX input
  • 6.5-foot USB/USB-C input cable
  • Quick access buttons
Specifications
  • Brand: JLab
  • Pattern: Unidirectional, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional
  • Audio Sensitivity: 9dB
  • Connector: USB Type-C
  • Frequency Bandwidth: 96kHz/24BIT
Pros
  • Decent quality
  • Affordable
  • User-friendly
Cons
  • Tends to pick up background noise
Buy This Product
JLab Talk USB Microphone

The Blue Yeti is plug and play which means no installation is necessary. This is great for novices since it won't be overwhelming. The built-in gain dial is useful, as well as the accessible volume knob, mute button, and pattern switch.

With four directional patterns, the Blue Yeti can be used in multiple scenarios. Investing in a pop filter will net better results, but out of the box, this microphone is definitely suitable for podcasting.

The single microphone may be a decider for some, but this high-quality THX-certified microphone is a steal for what it is.

Key Features
  • Available in multiple colors
  • Blue VOICE software
  • Four pickup patterns
  • Onboard audio controls
Specifications
  • Brand: Blue Yeti
  • Type: Condenser
  • Pattern: Bidirectional, Stereo, Omnidirectional, Cardioid
  • Power: USB
  • Connector: USB
  • Latency: None
  • Weight: 3.2lbs
  • Frequency Bandwidth: 20Hz - 20KHz
  • Microphones: 1
  • Capsule Size: 14mm
  • Sensitivty: 120dB
  • Dimensions: 4.9 x 4.7 x 11.6 inches
  • Included Accessories: USB cable, adjustable desk stand, setup instructions
  • High Pass Filter: Yes
Pros
  • Compatible with Mac and Windows
  • Great sound quality
  • Plug and play
Cons
  • Not the best, but not the worst
  • Better for beginners
Buy This Product

The Elgato Wave:3 sits firmly in the middle when it comes to the best microphones for podcasting. It doesn't do everything, but the features it does have are decent. Using a cardioid pattern, this microphone is ideal for one person speaking into the mic, rather than two or more users.

A low hum of background noise can be heard at times, but it's very minimal. Voices can be heard crystal clear, which is what you want for a podcast. Onboard, the controls are very simple and can be adjusted in one place. On the rear you'll find a USB-C port and a 3.5mm headphone jack; simple, but what you need.

Whether you're recording a podcast or using the Elgato Wave:3 for gaming, your voice will be heard loud and clear. The Wave Link app also offers a load of effects you can use if you're feeling adventurous.

Key Features
  • Wave Link app
  • Thousands of effects
  • Multi-layered noise shield
Specifications
  • Brand: Elgato
  • Pattern: Cardioid
  • Audio Sensitivity: 15dB
  • Connector: USB Type-C
  • Frequency Bandwidth: 24-bit / 96kHz
Pros
  • Clear recording
  • Easy to setup
  • Stylish design
Cons
  • Onboard controls may be too simple for advanced users
  • Can sometimes pick up background noise
Buy This Product
Elgato Wave:3

While the HyperX QuadCast S might be more expensive than other similar microphones, it does come with accessories like a built-in shock mount, pop filter, and mount adapter. Once you add those things separately to another microphone, it definitely seems worth investing in the HyperX.

What stands out on the HyperX QuadCast S is undoubtedly its RGB lights. These can be customized using HyperX's NGENUITY software, where you'll find a range of different colors and combinations to apply. Once you've chosen your RGBs, you can simply attach the microphone to the stand and connect it to your PC to get started.

With 14mm condensers, the four directional patterns offer excellent sound quality in various different scenarios. Whether you're recording a podcast, doing a voice-over on a live video, or chatting to your friends on Discord, the HyperX QuadCast S works a treat.

Key Features
  • RGB lighting with dynamic effects
  • Built-in anti-vibration shock mount
  • Tap-to-mute sensor with LED status indicator
  • HyperX Ngenuity Software
  • Mount adapter, pop filter, and headphone jack
Specifications
  • Brand: HyperX
  • Pattern: Cardioid, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional, Stereo
  • Connector: USB-C to USB-A
  • Weight: 1.32lbs
  • Frequency Bandwidth: 20Hz - 20kHz
  • Dimensions: 9.84 x 5.08 x 4.06 inches
  • Compatible Devices: PS4, PC, Mac
Pros
  • Good sound quality
  • Durable build
  • Built-in accessories
  • Customizable RGBs
Cons
  • Not much difference between the S model and the original QuadCast
Buy This Product
HyperX QuadCast S

FAQ

Q: What Type Of Microphone Is Best For Podcasting?

USB microphones tend to be a good option since they are portable and work with most devices.

Having a range of audio patterns can help, too, especially if you're recording with more than one person.

Q: Is An iPhone Microphone Good For Podcasting?

It's okay but if you're regularly recording podcasts, it's worth investing in an external microphone. This will reduce background noise and ambient sounds.