Best XLR streaming microphones in 2025 (All Budgets)

When it comes to streaming—whether it’s gaming, podcasting, or live content creation—audio quality can make or break your audience’s experience. While USB microphones have their place for beginners, XLR microphones paired with an audio interface offer superior sound quality, flexibility, and control, making them the go-to choice for serious streamers. In this article, we’ll explore the best XLR streaming microphones available in 2025, diving into their features, pros, cons, and why they stand out in a crowded market. Whether you’re a Twitch streamer, a YouTube creator, or a podcaster, this guide will help you find the perfect XLR mic to elevate your setup.

Why Choose an XLR Microphone for Streaming?

Before we dive into the list, let’s address why XLR microphones are worth considering over their USB counterparts. XLR mics connect to an audio interface or mixer via a three-pin XLR cable, allowing for greater customization and sound processing. Unlike USB mics, which often come with built-in preamps and limited upgrade potential, XLR mics offer:

Superior Sound Quality: Higher-end components and the ability to pair with professional-grade preamps result in cleaner, richer audio.
Flexibility: Adjust gain, EQ, and effects through an audio interface or mixer.
Longevity: XLR mics are an investment that grows with your setup as you upgrade other components.
Lower Noise Floor: With proper setup, XLR mics typically have less self-noise than USB mics.

That said, XLR mics require additional gear (like an audio interface) and some technical know-how, so they’re best suited for streamers ready to step up their game. Now, let’s get into the top XLR microphones for streaming in 2025.

1. Shure SM7B – The Gold Standard

Price: ~$399
Type: Dynamic
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency Response: 50 Hz – 20 kHz

The Shure SM7B is a legendary microphone, and for good reason—it’s a staple in studios, podcasts, and streaming setups worldwide. Its warm, smooth sound profile and exceptional background noise rejection make it a top pick for streamers who want professional-grade audio.

Why It’s Great for Streaming

The SM7B’s cardioid polar pattern focuses on your voice while minimizing room noise, a must-have for streamers in untreated spaces. Its built-in pop filter and air suspension shock isolation reduce plosives and vibrations, ensuring clean recordings even during animated streams. Plus, its versatile tone—boosted mids and controlled lows—flatters most voices without excessive post-processing.

Pros

Outstanding noise rejection
Durable, all-metal construction
Warm, broadcast-ready sound
Internal shock mount reduces desk noise

Cons

Requires significant gain (a good preamp or interface like the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is recommended)
Pricey for beginners

Best For

Streamers who prioritize vocal clarity and are willing to invest in a high-quality interface to unlock its full potential. If you’ve heard streamers like Shroud or Dr. Disrespect, you’ve likely heard the SM7B in action.

2. Audio-Technica AT2035 – Budget-Friendly Excellence

Price: ~$149
Type: Condenser
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz

For streamers on a budget who still want XLR quality, the Audio-Technica AT2035 delivers impressive performance at a fraction of the cost of premium models. It’s a condenser mic, meaning it’s more sensitive than dynamic mics like the SM7B, but it’s still versatile enough for streaming.

Why It’s Great for Streaming

The AT2035 offers a crisp, detailed sound with a slight boost in the high frequencies, making it ideal for clear voice reproduction. It includes a switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter and a 10 dB pad, giving you control over bass buildup and loud inputs—perfect for dynamic streaming environments.

Pros

Affordable without sacrificing quality
Bright, articulate sound
Includes shock mount and pouch
Built-in filter and pad for versatility

Cons

Picks up more background noise than dynamic mics
Requires phantom power (48V)

Best For

Beginner-to-intermediate streamers looking for a step up from USB mics without breaking the bank. Pair it with an affordable interface like the Behringer U-Phoria UM2, and you’re set.

3. Rode Procaster – The Dynamic Contender

Price: ~$229
Type: Dynamic
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency Response: 75 Hz – 18 kHz

The Rode Procaster is a dynamic microphone designed specifically for broadcast-style applications, making it a fantastic choice for streamers who want a rich, radio-like voice. It’s often compared to the SM7B but comes in at a lower price point.

Why It’s Great for Streaming

The Procaster excels at rejecting off-axis noise, so your keyboard clacks and fan hums won’t ruin your stream. Its tailored frequency response emphasizes vocal presence, giving you that “larger-than-life” sound streamers crave. It’s also built like a tank, ensuring it lasts through years of use.

Pros

Excellent off-axis noise rejection
Robust, durable design
Warm, full-bodied sound
Internal pop filter

Cons

Needs a strong preamp (similar to the SM7B)
Slightly narrower frequency range than competitors

Best For

Streamers who want SM7B-like performance on a tighter budget. It’s a favorite among podcasters and streamers like Summit1g who value durability and vocal punch.

4. Electro-Voice RE20 – The Broadcast Beast

Price: ~$449
Type: Dynamic
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency Response: 45 Hz – 18 kHz

The Electro-Voice RE20 is a broadcast icon used by radio hosts, voice actors, and streamers alike. Its premium price reflects its studio-grade quality and unique features, making it a standout choice for those who demand the best.

Why It’s Great for Streaming

The RE20’s Variable-D technology minimizes the proximity effect (that boomy sound when you’re too close), giving you consistent tone no matter your mic position. It’s also incredibly adept at rejecting background noise, making it ideal for untreated rooms. The sound is natural and balanced, with a slight midrange boost for vocal clarity.

Pros

Minimal proximity effect
Exceptional noise rejection
Professional, neutral sound
Built to last decades

Cons

High price tag
Bulky design may require a sturdy stand

Best For

Serious streamers or content creators with a dedicated setup who want a mic that doubles as a status symbol. Think of it as the choice for someone like Ninja aiming for flawless audio.

5. Neumann TLM 103 – The Luxury Pick

Price: ~$1,195
Type: Condenser
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz

The Neumann TLM 103 is the Rolls-Royce of streaming microphones. While it’s overkill for most, its pristine sound quality and unmatched clarity make it a dream mic for audiophiles and high-budget streamers.

Why It’s Great for Streaming

This large-diaphragm condenser captures every nuance of your voice with stunning detail and a silky-smooth top end. Its low self-noise (7 dBA) ensures your audio is free of hiss, and the cardioid pattern keeps focus on you. It’s a mic that makes you sound better than you thought possible.

Pros

Unrivaled clarity and detail
Extremely low self-noise
Premium build quality
Status symbol in the audio world

Cons

Very expensive
Sensitive to room noise (requires treatment)

Best For

Professional streamers or creators with treated spaces and a big budget. If you’re streaming to thousands and want the ultimate flex, this is it.

6. AKG C214 – The Versatile Middle Ground

Price: ~$399
Type: Condenser
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz

The AKG C214 strikes a balance between affordability and premium performance, offering condenser mic sensitivity with practical features for streaming.

Why It’s Great for Streaming

The C214 delivers a bright, detailed sound with a slight high-end lift that enhances vocal presence. It includes a switchable 20 dB pad and a bass-cut filter, giving you flexibility for different streaming scenarios. Its rugged design also makes it a reliable choice for long-term use.

Pros

Clear, vibrant sound
Switchable pad and filter
Durable construction
Good value for a condenser

Cons

More sensitive to noise than dynamic mics
Requires phantom power

Best For

Streamers who want condenser clarity without jumping to Neumann prices. It’s a solid pick for multi-purpose creators doing voiceovers, streaming, and recording.

Key Considerations When Choosing an XLR Mic

Picking the right XLR microphone depends on your setup, budget, and streaming environment. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Dynamic vs. Condenser

Dynamic Mics (e.g., SM7B, Procaster, RE20): Better for noisy rooms, less sensitive, require more gain. Ideal for streamers with untreated spaces.
Condenser Mics (e.g., AT2035, TLM 103, C214): More detailed and sensitive, great for quiet, treated rooms. Require phantom power (48V).

Audio Interface

You’ll need an interface to connect your XLR mic to your PC. Budget options like the Focusrite Scarlett Solo ($139) or mid-tier picks like the Audient iD4 ($199) work well for most streamers.

Room Acoustics

If your room is echoey, opt for a dynamic mic with tight noise rejection. For treated spaces, condensers shine.

Budget

XLR setups can range from $200 (mic + interface) to over $1,500 for premium gear. Decide what you’re willing to spend upfront.

Conclusion

Investing in an XLR microphone is a game-changer for streamers who want to stand out with professional audio. From the budget-friendly Audio-Technica AT2035 to the luxurious Neumann TLM 103, there’s an option for every level of creator in 2025. Pair your mic with a solid interface, tweak your settings, and watch your audience appreciate the upgrade. Your voice is your brand—make it sound its best.