Shure
Shure SM58
Dynamic XLR
88
/ 100
From $99
VS
Shure SM7B wins by 5
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, Shure SM58 lands at 88 and Shure SM7B at 93. That puts Shure SM7B ahead by 5 points — a decisive 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 Shure SM7B if…
- ✓The podcast mic — used by everyone
- ✓Phenomenal rejection of room noise
- ✓Built like a tank
Shure SM58 88
vs 93 Shure SM7B
Score breakdown
Shure SM58
88 sound 88
features 84
build 90
value 84
Shure SM7B
93 sound 96
features 82
build 98
value 82
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Shure SM58 | Shure SM7B |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Dynamic XLR | Dynamic cardioid |
| Connectivity | — | XLR |
| Frequency response | — | 50 Hz – 20 kHz |
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
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: Shure SM58 vs Shure SM7B
Which is better, Shure SM58 or Shure SM7B? +
Shure SM7B scores 93 on our weighted rubric — ahead by 5. 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 Shure SM7B worth the price? +
At $399, Shure SM7B delivers a Specdex score of 93 — strongest in build.
Does Shure SM58 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.