Shure
Shure SM58
Dynamic XLR
88
/ 100
From $99
VS
Rode NT1 5th gen wins by 2
Rode
Rode NT1 5th gen
Condenser USB/XLR
90
/ 100
From $249
Specdex verdict
Rode NT1 5th gen takes it — here’s why.
In our weighted Specdex score, Shure SM58 lands at 88 and Rode NT1 5th gen at 90. That puts Rode NT1 5th gen 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 Rode NT1 5th gen if…
- ✓Well-known professional reputation
- ✓Good rejection (dynamic)
- ✓Plug-and-play USB (where applicable)
Shure SM58 88
vs 90 Rode NT1 5th gen
Score breakdown
Shure SM58
88 sound 88
features 84
build 90
value 84
Rode NT1 5th gen
90 sound 90
features 86
build 90
value 84
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Shure SM58 | Rode NT1 5th gen |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Dynamic XLR | Condenser USB/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
Rode NT1 5th gen
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 Rode NT1 5th gen
Which is better, Shure SM58 or Rode NT1 5th gen? +
Rode NT1 5th gen 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 Rode NT1 5th gen worth the price? +
At $249, Rode NT1 5th gen delivers a Specdex score of 90 — strongest in sound.
Does Shure SM58 or Rode NT1 5th gen 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.