Shure

SM7B

A entry-level pick in the usb microphones line-up, with USB Microphones up front.

50/100
Mixed bag
Overall score · how we rate
USB Microphones

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Why we rate it

  • Scores 50/100
  • Compared on the spec sheet
  • No usb-c
  • No headphone monitoring
Score profile

Where the SM7B wins and loses

Scored against the usb microphones class
OverallValueFuture-proo…505045
Overall spec score
50
Value position
50
Future-proofing
45
Head to head

SM7B vs Rode NT-1 Kit

Highlighted cell = better in that row
OverallValueFuture-proo…
SM7BNT-1 Kit
 ShureSM7BThis pageRodeNT-1 Kit
Overall score50 /10050 /100
Who it's for

Is the SM7B right for you?

Buy it if
Buyers on a budget

Anyone who needs a dependable usb microphone for the essentials without overspending.

Skip it if
Skip it if

You need usb-c, in which case a higher-tier usb 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.
good
Common questions

Before you buy

Is the SM7B worth it?

It depends on what you need. It scores 50/100 against other usb microphones, a entry-level result where the class average is around 54.

What stands out on the SM7B?

Its overall 50/100 rating against the rest of the usb microphones class.

How does it compare to the Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X?

The Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X scores 52/100 versus this one at 50/100, so it is the step up on the spec sheet.