Shure
Shure SM58
Dynamic XLR
88
/ 100
From $99
VS
AKG C214 wins by 2
AKG
AKG C214
Condenser XLR
90
/ 100
From $499
Specdex verdict
AKG C214 takes it — here’s why.
In our weighted Specdex score, Shure SM58 lands at 88 and AKG C214 at 90. That puts AKG C214 ahead by 2 points — a narrow margin driven mostly by its strengths in the categories below.
Pick Shure SM58 if…
- ✓Well-known professional reputation
- ✓Good rejection (dynamic)
- ✓Plug-and-play USB (where applicable)
Pick AKG C214 if…
- ✓Well-known professional reputation
- ✓Good rejection (dynamic)
- ✓Plug-and-play USB (where applicable)
Shure SM58 88
vs 90 AKG C214
Score breakdown
Shure SM58
88 sound 88
features 84
build 90
value 84
AKG C214
90 sound 90
features 86
build 90
value 84
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Shure SM58 | AKG C214 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Dynamic XLR | Condenser XLR |
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
AKG C214
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: Shure SM58 vs AKG C214
Which is better, Shure SM58 or AKG C214? +
AKG C214 scores 90 on our weighted rubric — ahead by 2. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.
Is Shure SM58 worth the price? +
At $99, Shure SM58 delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in build.
Is AKG C214 worth the price? +
At $499, AKG C214 delivers a Specdex score of 90 — strongest in sound.
Does Shure SM58 or AKG C214 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.