Shure
Shure SM57
The Shure SM57 lands as a entry-level studio microphone, built around cardioid.
50/100
cardioid
£99.00best price at Amazon
In stock at 1 retailer
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Why we rate it
- Scores 50/100
- Built for the job
- No switchable polar patterns
- No high-pass filter
Score profile
Scored against the studio microphones classWhere the Shure SM57 wins and loses
Full specification
Grouped · supported features marked in blueSpecifications
Audio
Polar patterncardioid
Design and build
Weight283 g
More specs
ConnectionXLR
Head to head
Highlighted cell = better in that rowShure SM57 vs RODE RODE NT1 Signature Series
Shure SM57RODE NT1 Signature Series
| ShureShure SM57This page | RODERODE NT1 Signature Series | |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 50 /100 | 50 /100 |
| Polar pattern | cardioid | cardioid |
| Weight | 283 gBetter | 313 g |
Who it's for
Is the Shure SM57 right for you?
Buy it if
Buyers on a budget
Anyone who needs a dependable studio microphone for the essentials without overspending.
Skip it if
Skip it if
You need switchable polar patterns, in which case a higher-tier studio microphone is the better call.
Critical listener
Cares about detail, tuning and codec support.
okay
Everyday listener
Music, calls and commuting, wants a safe all-rounder.
good
Value seeker
Wants the most sound for the least outlay.
okay
Common questions
Before you buy
Is the Shure SM57 worth it?
It depends on what you need. It scores 50/100 against other studio microphones, a entry-level result where the class average is around 51.
What stands out on the Shure SM57?
Its overall 50/100 rating against the rest of the studio microphones class.
How does it compare to the Ortizan XLR/USB Dynamic Microphone?
The Ortizan XLR/USB Dynamic Microphone scores 55/100 versus this one at 50/100, so it is the step up on the spec sheet.
You might also consider
Alternatives & similar studio microphones
If you want to spend less
Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone for Broadcast
The Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone for Broadcast covers the basics for less outlay.
See review →If you want the best
Ortizan XLR/USB Dynamic Microphone
The Ortizan XLR/USB Dynamic Microphone scores higher and adds headroom for demanding setups.
See review →
