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Specdex
Audio-Technica

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+

Condenser USB

82
/ 100
From $149
VS
Shure SM7B wins by 11
Shure

Shure SM7B

Dynamic · XLR · Broadcast classic

93
/ 100
From $399
Specdex verdict

Shure SM7B takes it — here’s why.

In our weighted Specdex score, Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ lands at 82 and Shure SM7B at 93. That puts Shure SM7B ahead by 11 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 SM7B if…

  • The podcast mic — used by everyone
  • Phenomenal rejection of room noise
  • Built like a tank

Score breakdown

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+
82
sound 82
features 78
build 90
value 84
Shure SM7B
93
sound 96
features 82
build 98
value 82

Specs side-by-side

Spec
Audio-Technica AT2020USB+
Shure SM7B
Type
Condenser USB
Dynamic cardioid
Connectivity
XLR
Frequency response
50 Hz – 20 kHz

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 SM7B

Pros
  • +The podcast mic — used by everyone
  • +Phenomenal rejection of room noise
  • +Built like a tank
Cons
  • Needs lots of gain (Cloudlifter recommended)
  • XLR only
  • Heavy — needs sturdy arm

FAQ: Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ vs Shure SM7B

Which is better, Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ or Shure SM7B? +

Shure SM7B scores 93 on our weighted rubric — ahead by 11. 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 SM7B worth the price? +

At $399, Shure SM7B delivers a Specdex score of 93 — strongest in build.

Does Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ or Shure SM7B 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.