It wasn’t that long ago that I just assumed a microphone was a microphone. But that was before I entered the world of podcasting, consulting and podcast production. Since then I’ve had the privilege of testing all sorts of mics and quite frankly I can’t get enough! So in order to help steer you in the right direction when it comes to finding the right mic, I have ranked the best 11 mics I have personally used in my years as a podcaster. No matter your budget, I’m sure you will find a mic that fits your needs from this list of mics that range in price from $15 to $500 from the most popular brands to brands you may not have heard of outside of this post.

11. Behringer XM1800s

This dynamic mic offers impressive sound quality at a rock-bottom price, making it a great choice for podcasters on a tight budget. It is an XLR mic, however so you will need to pick up an interface as well. Here are a few I’ recommend: FiFine Amplitank SC-1, Rodecaster Duo, Zoom H6.

10. Fifine K658

The Fifine K658 is a simple, plug and play USB microphone ideal for beginners. It includes a headphone jack for zero latency monitoring, large gain dial and mute button and full color LED lights.

9. Tonor TD510

The Tonor TD510 is the first USB/XLR combo mic on this list which means it can be used in a variety of ways. It is a great looking mic with a solid build. The sound quality is deep and rich and perfectly suited for many podcasters.

8. Presonus PD-70

The Presonus PD-70 is a dynamic mic that emphasizes low end frequencies giving you a fuller and darker sound quality. This was initially a toss up for me with the Rode Podmic, with which I had previous experience, when purchasing my first mics for home. While I don’t regret my purchase, I do still have the Podmic ranked slightly higher.

7. Fifine K688

The Fifine K688 is a versatile USB/XLR microphone. The build quality leaves something to be desired which is why the audio quality surprised me so much. I compared this one to the SM7dB (which is 6x the price) in a recent video. See if you can tell much of a difference.

6. Shure MV7

The Shure MV7 is another popular mic that offers exceptional audio quality with both XLR and USB connectivity. Using the mic in USB mode activates features built in to the mic allowing for gain adjustments and headphone monitoring volume.

5. Rode Podmic

The Rode Podmic was my very first upgrade from the aforementioned Behringer XM1800s. It was a significant jump in style and quality. This mic tends toward an emphasis on higher frequencies which creates vocal clarity, but can also over accentuate sibilance (S-sounds)

4. Shure SM7B

The legendary Shure SM7B is an industry standard for broadcast sound. This iconic microphone is known for its smooth, rich audio and exceptional ability to control background noise. This one does require the use of a preamp (Cloudlifter, Dynamite Stick, etc) to boost the gain, which will cost you a little extra beyond the purchase price of this mic.

3. Audio-Technica BP40

The AT BP40 is a recent climber on my list. It is a dynamic mic with a large diaphragm which gives it a condenser-like quality that picks up a wider range of frequencies. The result is a full, yet crisp sound that will please your eardrums.

2. Rode Procaster

The Rode Procaster is a broadcast-quality dynamic mic that is a step up from the popular Podmic. It offers the same great clarity with touch more depth on the low end. Plus just sitting behind this stylish mic will make you instantly feel, and look, like a podcast pro.

1. Shure SM7dB

The Shure SM7dB offers the same legendary performance as the SM7B BUT this one comes with a built in preamp so there’s no need to purchase extra equipment. That preamp comes with a price but the convenience makes it worth it and is the reason the SM7dB tops my list of favorite microphones.

That’s a lot of microphones and I still use many of them on a regular basis (Shure MV7, SM7dB, FiFine K688, Rode Procasters). With options for every budget and recording style, you’re sure to find the perfect mic to launch or elevate your podcast. If you’re looking for a little more help with your decision, here is a video guide to buying the right microphone.

What questions do you have about these mics? Which one is your favorite?