Best ATR2100 Alternatives (All budgets)

The Audio-Technica ATR2100 has been a staple in the podcasting and streaming world for years, beloved for its versatility, audio quality, and affordability. However, with the microphone landscape constantly evolving, many content creators seek alternatives offering different features, improved sound profiles, or better value.

Why Consider an ATR2100 Alternative?

Before diving into alternatives, it’s worth understanding why you might want to look beyond the ATR2100:

Discontinued Status: Audio-Technica has officially discontinued the original ATR2100, replacing it with the ATR2100x-USB.
Feature Expansion: Newer microphones often offer additional features like higher bit rates, better shock mounting, or improved connectivity options.
Sound Profile Preferences: The ATR2100’s sound signature isn’t ideal for every voice or application.
Budget Considerations: There are now competitive options at both lower and higher price points.
Specific Use Cases: Specialized recording scenarios may benefit from microphones designed with particular attributes.

What is the Best ATR2100 Alternatives?

Here is my top picks for the best ATR2100 alternatives to consider buying in 2025.

Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB

The ATR2100x-USB is Audio-Technica’s direct replacement for the ATR2100, maintaining the core features while adding modern improvements.

Key Features:

USB-C connectivity (vs. the original’s mini-USB)
24-bit/192kHz capability (upgraded from 16-bit/48kHz)
Same dynamic cardioid capsule design
Dual XLR/USB connectivity
Headphone monitoring jack

Who Should Choose This: If you loved the original ATR2100 but want slightly improved specs and modern connectivity, this is your most direct option.

Samson Q2U

The Samson Q2U has long been considered the ATR2100’s closest competitor, offering remarkably similar features at a slightly lower price point.

Key Features:

Dual XLR/USB connectivity
Dynamic cardioid pickup pattern
Headphone monitoring jack
Includes desktop stand and windscreen
Slightly warmer sound profile than the ATR2100

Who Should Choose This: Budget-conscious creators who want dual-connection flexibility without compromising significantly on quality.

Rode PodMic

While lacking USB connectivity, the Rode PodMic has become incredibly popular for those ready to invest in an audio interface.

Key Features:

XLR-only connectivity
Purpose-built for podcasting with internal pop filter
Robust metal construction
Integrated shock mounting
Rich, broadcast-quality sound

Who Should Choose This: Content creators who already have an audio interface and want a microphone with a more professional sound profile and build quality.

Maono AU-PM421

Maono has emerged as a strong competitor in the affordable microphone space, and the AU-PM421 offers impressive performance for its price.

Key Features:

USB-C and XLR connectivity
Cardioid pickup pattern
Zero-latency monitoring
Plug-and-play setup
Solid metal construction

Who Should Choose This: Entry-level podcasters and streamers looking for a capable dual-connection microphone at a lower price point.

Fifine K669B

For those on the tightest budgets who still need decent audio quality, the Fifine K669B represents exceptional value.

Key Features:

USB-only connectivity
Cardioid pickup pattern
Simple plug-and-play operation
Sturdy metal construction
Surprisingly good sound for the price

Who Should Choose This: Beginners, casual content creators, or those needing a backup microphone without breaking the bank.

JLab Talk

The JLab Talk offers multiple pickup patterns at a price point where most microphones only provide one.

Key Features:

USB-C connectivity
Four pickup patterns (cardioid, omnidirectional, stereo, bidirectional)
Built-in tripod stand with adjustable height
RGB indicators
96kHz/24-bit resolution

Who Should Choose This: Content creators who need versatility for different recording scenarios without investing in multiple microphones.

Shure MV7

The Shure MV7 bridges the gap between USB convenience and XLR professional quality, inspired by the legendary SM7B.

Key Features:

Simultaneous XLR and USB connectivity
Touch panel controls
Auto-level mode for easy setup
ShurePlus MOTIV app for advanced customization
Professional-grade dynamic capsule

Who Should Choose This: Serious content creators looking for broadcast-quality sound with the flexibility of both USB and XLR connections.

Rode PodMic USB

Building on the success of the original PodMic, the USB version adds direct computer connectivity without sacrificing quality.

Key Features:

USB-C and XLR connections
Integrated A/D converter
Zero-latency monitoring
Built-in DSP for compression and processing
Same excellent broadcast-quality capsule as the original

Who Should Choose This: Content creators who want the PodMic sound with added versatility and don’t want to purchase a separate audio interface.

Elgato Wave:3

Specifically designed for streamers, the Wave:3 offers tight integration with streaming software and excellent audio processing.

Key Features:

USB-C connectivity
Proprietary Clipguard technology to prevent distortion
Wave Link software for mixing multiple audio sources
Capacitive mute touch sensor
Sleek, stream-friendly design

Who Should Choose This: Streamers who want tight software integration, clean aesthetics, and protection against audio clipping during enthusiastic gaming moments.

Shure SM58

The legendary SM58 has been the go-to vocal microphone for performers worldwide for decades, offering bombproof reliability.

Key Features:

Cardioid dynamic capsule
Virtually indestructible build quality
Excellent handling noise rejection
Built-in spherical wind and pop filter
Consistent on-axis sound

Who Should Choose This: Content creators looking for a professional, road-tested microphone that will last for decades.

Electro-Voice RE20

While significantly more expensive, the RE20 represents the gold standard in broadcast microphones.

Key Features:

Variable-D technology to minimize proximity effect
Large diaphragm dynamic element
Internal pop filter
Heavy-duty internal shock mounting
Flat, natural frequency response

Who Should Choose This: Professional podcasters and broadcasters who demand the best possible sound quality and are willing to invest accordingly.

Rode ProcCaster II

The ProcCaster II is Rode’s latest entry in the broadcast microphone space, designed specifically for modern podcasting.

Key Features:

Broadcast-quality dynamic capsule
Internal shock mounting and pop filter
Optimized for speech reproduction
Revolution preamp with ultra-low noise floor
Excellent off-axis rejection

Who Should Choose This: Serious podcasters who want broadcast-quality audio without stretching to RE20 price levels.

Final Thoughts

While the ATR2100 deservedly earned its place as podcasting and streaming staple, today’s market offers numerous compelling alternatives across all price points.

The ATR2100x-USB or Samson Q2U provides the most seamless transition for a direct replacement with modern features. Budget-conscious creators can look to options like the Maono AU-PM421 or Fifine K669B, while those ready to upgrade can explore premium options like the Shure MV7 or Rode PodMic USB.

The best microphone ultimately depends on your specific needs, recording environment, and budget. By carefully considering the features that matter most to your content creation workflow, you can find an ATR2100 alternative that matches and potentially surpasses this classic microphone’s performance.

Remember that regardless of which microphone you choose, proper technique and setup will always have a greater impact on your final audio quality than minor differences between comparable microphones.