Audio-Technica
Audio-Technica AT2020USB+
Condenser USB
82
/ 100
From $149
VS
Shure SM7dB wins by 10
Shure
Shure SM7dB
SM7B + built-in 28dB preamp
92
/ 100
From $499
Specdex verdict
Shure SM7dB takes it — here’s why.
In our weighted Specdex score, Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ lands at 82 and Shure SM7dB at 92. That puts Shure SM7dB ahead by 10 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 SM7dB if…
- ✓Built-in preamp — no Cloudlifter needed
- ✓Same SM7B sound
- ✓Low-self-noise broadcast standard
Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ 82
vs 92 Shure SM7dB
Score breakdown
Audio-Technica AT2020USB+
82 sound 82
features 78
build 90
value 84
Shure SM7dB
92 sound 95
features 92
build 96
value 86
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ | Shure SM7dB |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Condenser USB | — |
| Pattern | — | Cardioid dynamic |
| Frequency response | — | 50 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Connectivity | — | XLR |
| Active gain | — | +28 dB switchable |
| Phantom required | — | Yes (for active mode) |
| Weight | — | 760 g |
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 SM7dB
Pros
- +Built-in preamp — no Cloudlifter needed
- +Same SM7B sound
- +Low-self-noise broadcast standard
Cons
- −Premium pricing
- −XLR-only (no USB)
- −Heavy
FAQ: Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ vs Shure SM7dB
Which is better, Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ or Shure SM7dB? +
Shure SM7dB scores 92 on our weighted rubric — ahead by 10. 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 SM7dB worth the price? +
At $499, Shure SM7dB delivers a Specdex score of 92 — strongest in build.
Does Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ or Shure SM7dB 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.