Best Shure Condenser Microphones of 2025

Hayden Bryant Avatar
Hayden Bryant
Last Updated: 5 Feb 2025

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Shure is a well-known brand in the audio industry and their condenser microphones are no exception. These high-quality microphones are designed to pick up even the slightest sounds with precision and clarity, making them ideal for professional recording and broadcasting purposes. Shure's condenser microphones are known for their superior sound quality and durability, ensuring that they can withstand even the most demanding of environments. Whether you're a musician, podcaster, or broadcaster, Shure's condenser microphones are a top choice for capturing high-quality audio.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Shure SM4 Studio Microphone Kit with Pop Filter Cover #TOP 1
Shure SM4 Studio Microphone Kit with Pop Filter
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Shure PGA31 Condenser Headset Microphone Cover #TOP 2
Shure PGA31 Condenser Headset Microphone
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Shure MV7+ Podcast Microphone with LED Touch Panel Cover #TOP 3
Shure MV7+ Podcast Microphone with LED Touch Panel
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Shure Condenser Microphones

#TOP 1

Shure SM4 Studio Microphone Kit with Pop Filter

SM4-K-KIT
Black
Shure SM4 Studio Microphone Kit with Pop Filter Cover
Shure SM4 Studio Recording Microphone Kit, XLR Home Studio Condenser Mic with Mix-Ready Audio - All-Metal Construction, includes Detachable Magnetic Pop Filter & Shock Mount (SM4-K-KIT)

The Shure SM4 Microphone offers smooth audio reproduction with its brass 1-inch dual-diaphragm capsule, allowing you to capture clean low-end frequencies and detailed highs for a natural sound. Its superior noise rejection, thanks to the uniform cardioid polar pattern, ensures clarity by minimising unwanted background noise. The design reduces proximity effect, providing consistent audio quality, which is perfect for close-miking vocals and instruments. Plus, with its innovative interference shielding technology, you can enjoy cleaner audio free from RF noise interference.

What We Like
Smooth audio reproduction
Superior noise rejection
Reduces proximity effect
Interference shielding technology

Shure PGA31 Condenser Headset Microphone

PGA31-TQG
Black
Shure PGA31 Condenser Headset Microphone Cover
Shure PGA31 Headset Condenser Microphone with Cardioid Polar Pattern, Flexible Gooseneck, Foam Windscreen, and TA4F (TQG) Connector for Use Wireless Systems (PGA31-TQG)

The Shure PGA31 Microphone is designed for active speakers and vocal performers, ensuring a secure fit with its wireframe headset. Its permanently charged electret condenser cartridge captures detailed, crisp vocals, enhancing your sound quality. The unidirectional cardioid polar pattern effectively rejects unwanted noise, allowing you to enjoy improved sound quality and reduced feedback. Additionally, the flexible gooseneck design lets you easily adjust the microphone position for optimal source isolation. This means you can focus on delivering your best performance without distractions.

What We Like
Secure wireframe headset
Crisp vocal quality
Reduces unwanted noise
Flexible positioning
Compatible with Shure wireless systems
#TOP 3

Shure MV7+ Podcast Microphone with LED Touch Panel

MV7+-K
Black
Shure MV7+ Podcast Microphone with LED Touch Panel Cover
Shure MV7+ Podcast Microphone. Enhanced Audio, LED Touch Panel, USB-C & XLR Outputs, Auto Level Mode, Digital Pop Filter, Reverb Effects, Podcasting, Streaming, Recording - Black

The Shure MV7+ Microphone offers impressive features for podcasters and streamers. The multi-colour LED touch panel allows you to customise your sound visually, enhancing your audio experience. With a quick mute function, you can easily silence the microphone, making it convenient during live sessions. The real-time denoiser effectively reduces background noise, ensuring your voice remains clear in less-than-ideal recording environments. Additionally, the digital pop filter eliminates unwanted plosive sounds, allowing you to focus on delivering great content.

What We Like
Vibrant LED touch panel
Quick mute functionality
Real-time noise reduction
Digital pop filter included

Shure MV88+ Video Kit with Tripod

MV88+
Black
Shure MV88+ Video Kit with Tripod Cover
Shure MV88+ Video Kit - Digital Stereo Condenser Microphone for Apple and Android, with Manfrotto PIXI Tripod, Phone Clamp, Mount, iOS and USB-C Cables for Next-Level Compatibility and Connectivity

The Shure MV88+ is a versatile digital stereo condenser microphone that works seamlessly with iOS, Android, and desktop devices. With its built-in headphone monitoring, you can enjoy real-time audio feedback, ensuring that your recordings sound just right. It is Apple MFi certified, making it easy to connect directly to your Apple devices. Additionally, the MV88+ is ideal for livestreaming, provided that your third-party application supports USB or Lightning audio. This microphone is designed to elevate your audio and video capture experience.

What We Like
Wide device compatibility
Real-time headphone monitoring
Apple MFi certified
Perfect for livestreaming
Customisable with free apps

Shure SM81-LC Cardioid Condenser Microphone Bundle

SM81-LC
Silver
Shure SM81-LC Cardioid Condenser Microphone Bundle Cover
Shure SM81-LC Cardioid Condenser Instrument Microphone for Guitar, Piano, and Cymbals, includes Swivel Adapter, Attenuator-Switch Lock, Windscreen, Carrying Case, No Cable Included (SM81-LC)

The Shure SM81-LC Microphone offers an impressive frequency response from 0 Hz to 20 kHz, ensuring you capture the full range of sound from instruments like guitars and pianos. With selectable low-frequency response options, you can adjust the microphone to suit your recording environment, enhancing clarity. Its low noise and high output clipping level mean you can achieve professional-quality recordings without unwanted interference. The cardioid polar pattern effectively rejects off-axis sounds, allowing you to focus on the true character of your instruments.

What We Like
Wide frequency response range
Selectable low-frequency adjustments
Low noise operation
Effective off-axis sound rejection
#TOP 6

Shure MV5 Digital Condenser Microphone with App

MV5-DIG
MV5 Gray/Black
Shure MV5 Digital Condenser Microphone with App Cover
Shure MV5 Digital Condenser Microphone with Cardioid - Plug-and-play with iOS, Mac, PC, Onscreen Control w/ShurePlus MOTIV Audio App, Includes USB and Lightning Cables (1m each) - Gray w/Black Foam

The Shure MV5 Microphone offers remarkable audio quality thanks to its custom-tuned microphone capsule, ensuring your recordings sound professional. Its iOS and USB connectivity means you can easily set it up at home or take it on the go, without needing extra adapters. You can record, edit, and share your audio using the free ShurePlus MOTIV app, which provides you with a user-friendly interface. Additionally, the three onboard DSP preset modes allow you to quickly select the perfect sound for your recordings.

What We Like
Superior audio quality
Easy plug-and-play setup
Free editing app included
Multiple sound presets

Shure PG ALTA Gooseneck Microphone with Cable

PGA98H-XLR
Black
Shure PG ALTA Gooseneck Microphone with Cable Cover
Shure PG ALTA Cardioid Condenser Gooseneck Instrument Microphone with XLR-XLR Cable (PGA98H-XLR)

The Shure PGA98H Microphone is designed specifically for wind instruments, providing clear sound reproduction. Its flexible gooseneck allows you to position the microphone accurately, making it convenient for live performances or studio settings. With an integrated horn clamp, mounting becomes quick and effortless. Additionally, the in-line preamplifier offers phantom power and a direct XLR connection, ensuring your setup is seamless and efficient.

What We Like
Clear sound reproduction
Flexible positioning
Easy mounting
Seamless XLR connection
#TOP 8

Shure SM35-XLR Condenser Microphone with Windscreen

SM35-XLR
Black
Shure SM35-XLR Condenser Microphone with Windscreen Cover
Shure SM35-XLR Performance Headset Condenser Microphone with Snap-fit Windscreen and Inline XLR Preamp

The Shure SM35-XLR Microphone is designed for active performers and multi-instrumentalists, featuring a secure and comfortable wireframe headset. With its tight, unidirectional cardioid polar pattern, you can enjoy excellent sound isolation, minimising unwanted feedback and signal bleed, especially on loud stages. Its flexible gooseneck design allows you to position the microphone optimally, enhancing source isolation. Additionally, the lightweight and low-profile form ensures that you can wear it comfortably for extended periods.

What We Like
Comfortable wireframe headset
Excellent sound isolation
Flexible gooseneck design
Lightweight for extended use

Shure PGA181 Condenser Microphone for Vocals and Instruments

PGA181-LC
black
Shure PGA181 Condenser Microphone for Vocals and Instruments Cover
Shure PGA181 Condenser Microphone - Side-Address Mic for Instrument and Vocals with Cardioid Pick-up Pattern, 3-pin XLR Connector, Stand Adapter and Zipper Pouch, No Cable (PGA181-LC)

The Shure PGA181 Microphone is designed to provide smooth and versatile sound reproduction, making it ideal for both vocals and instruments. Its cardioid polar pattern ensures that you capture audio directly from the source while effectively minimising unwanted background noise. The updated industrial design features a sleek black metallic finish, allowing it to blend seamlessly into any setting. Additionally, you receive a stand adapter for easy mounting to a microphone stand, enhancing your setup and convenience.

What We Like
Versatile sound reproduction
Minimises background noise
Sleek design
Includes stand adapter
#TOP 10

Shure SM86-LC Condenser Vocal Microphone

SM86-LC
grey
Shure SM86-LC Condenser Vocal Microphone Cover
Shure SM86-LC Cardioid Condenser Vocal Microphone,Black

The Shure SM86-LC Microphone is designed to deliver studio-quality sound thanks to its condenser cartridge. This feature ensures that your vocals are reproduced clearly, enhancing your performance. With a tailored frequency response, it captures the nuances of your voice beautifully. The cardioid polar pattern effectively minimises unwanted background noise, ensuring that only your voice is heard. Whether you are using stage monitors or personal monitors, this microphone is an excellent choice for any vocal performance.

What We Like
Studio quality sound
Clear vocal reproduction
Reduces background noise
Great for stage monitors
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our Shure condenser microphone research, we found 57 Shure condenser microphone products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 75,704 customer reviews through our big data system to write the Shure condenser microphones list. We found that most customers choose Shure condenser microphones with an average price of £185.30.

The Shure condenser microphones are available for purchase. The top 10 picks range in price from a low of £71.00 to a high of £333.00, find the one that fits your budget.

Written by
Hayden Bryant Avatar

Hayden was born in Liverpool, and he never left his hometown until university. In his freshman year at the University of Manchester, Hayden was the group leader of a popular music group. Hayden is responsible for the popularity of his music, and this is because of his natural ability to play with keys and strings. He graduated with BFA in 2016 and returned in 2018 as a lecturing staff in the School of Music.