Audio-Technica
Audio-Technica AT2020USB+
Condenser USB
82
/ 100
From $149
VS
Shure SM58 wins by 6
Shure
Shure SM58
Dynamic XLR
88
/ 100
From $99
Specdex verdict
Shure SM58 takes it — here’s why.
In our weighted Specdex score, Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ lands at 82 and Shure SM58 at 88. That puts Shure SM58 ahead by 6 points — a decisive margin driven mostly by its strengths in the categories below.
Pick Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ if…
- ✓Well-known professional reputation
- ✓Good rejection (dynamic)
- ✓Plug-and-play USB (where applicable)
Pick Shure SM58 if…
- ✓Well-known professional reputation
- ✓Good rejection (dynamic)
- ✓Plug-and-play USB (where applicable)
Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ 82
vs 88 Shure SM58
Score breakdown
Audio-Technica AT2020USB+
82 sound 82
features 78
build 90
value 84
Shure SM58
88 sound 88
features 84
build 90
value 84
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ | Shure SM58 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Condenser USB | Dynamic XLR |
Audio-Technica AT2020USB+
Pros
- +Well-known professional reputation
- +Good rejection (dynamic)
- +Plug-and-play USB (where applicable)
Cons
- −XLR models need an interface
- −Shock mount often extra
- −Room treatment helps more than mic choice
Shure SM58
Pros
- +Well-known professional reputation
- +Good rejection (dynamic)
- +Plug-and-play USB (where applicable)
Cons
- −XLR models need an interface
- −Shock mount often extra
- −Room treatment helps more than mic choice
FAQ: Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ vs Shure SM58
Which is better, Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ or Shure SM58? +
Shure SM58 scores 88 on our weighted rubric — ahead by 6. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.
Is Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ worth the price? +
At $149, Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ delivers a Specdex score of 82 — strongest in build.
Is Shure SM58 worth the price? +
At $99, Shure SM58 delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in build.
Does Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ or Shure SM58 last longer? +
Based on our long-term update and support ratings, both ship with multi-year support. Battery and reliability scores are visible in the breakdown above.