Rode
Rode NT1-A
Condenser XLR
88
/ 100
From $229
VS
Rode NT-USB+ wins by 2
Rode
Rode NT-USB+
Condenser USB
90
/ 100
From $169
Specdex verdict
Rode NT-USB+ takes it — here’s why.
In our weighted Specdex score, Rode NT1-A lands at 88 and Rode NT-USB+ at 90. That puts Rode NT-USB+ ahead by 2 points — a narrow margin driven mostly by its strengths in the categories below.
Pick Rode NT1-A if…
- ✓Well-known professional reputation
- ✓Good rejection (dynamic)
- ✓Plug-and-play USB (where applicable)
Pick Rode NT-USB+ if…
- ✓Well-known professional reputation
- ✓Good rejection (dynamic)
- ✓Plug-and-play USB (where applicable)
Rode NT1-A 88
vs 90 Rode NT-USB+
Score breakdown
Rode NT1-A
88 sound 88
features 84
build 90
value 84
Rode NT-USB+
90 sound 90
features 86
build 90
value 84
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Rode NT1-A | Rode NT-USB+ |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Condenser XLR | Condenser USB |
Rode NT1-A
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
Rode NT-USB+
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: Rode NT1-A vs Rode NT-USB+
Which is better, Rode NT1-A or Rode NT-USB+? +
Rode NT-USB+ scores 90 on our weighted rubric — ahead by 2. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.
Is Rode NT1-A worth the price? +
At $229, Rode NT1-A delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in build.
Is Rode NT-USB+ worth the price? +
At $169, Rode NT-USB+ delivers a Specdex score of 90 — strongest in sound.
Does Rode NT1-A or Rode NT-USB+ 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.