Best Podcast Equipment for Beginners on a Budget - Masterlist & Free Download

TL;DR:

• If you’re on a budget start with basics like the Blue Yeti or Rode PodMic paired with the ATH M40x headphones, your phone as a camera, and Riverside recording software.
• If you’ve got more to spend upgrade your mic to the SHure SM7B mic and your camera to the Nikon N30.
• You can also get extra items like lighting, stands, and filters. 

Do you want to have a great-sounding podcast but on a tight budget? 

Luckily with podcasting equipment, more expensive doesn’t always mean better. You can create a professional podcast gear setup with just some basics. At the very least you should start with a microphone, headphones, and recording software. 

We’ve done the research for you, and highlighted the best podcast equipment that won’t break the bank.

Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

• What to consider when choosing podcast equipment?
• Best podcast equipment for a low-budget setup
• Best budget-friendly podcast microphones
• Best budget-friendly headphones
• Best podcast cameras
• Best podcast lighting
• Best podcast recording and editing software
• Best podcast hosting platforms
• Best microphone accessories for podcasting
• Best pop filter
• Best microphone stand
• Best shock mounts
• Best podcast microphone cables
• Best podcast equipment for a more professional setup
• Best podcast equipment for a portable podcast setup
• Bonus: What equipment do professional podcasters use?
• FAQs on the Best Podcast Equipment

What to consider when choosing podcast equipment?

There are various things to consider when choosing podcast equipment. This includes:

Recording environment: 

Where will you be recording your podcast episodes? 

Your chosen podcast setup and equipment needs to work in the space you’re recording episodes. For example, you’ll need portable equipment if you’re podcasting on the go.

Podcast format: 

Is your podcast going to be solo, co-hosted, or interview-based? 

If you’re recording with remote guests and co-hosts you’ll need to factor in software that allows you to record remote interviews and episodes.

Your budget: 

What budget do you have? 

This is very important, as it will help you prioritize what’s most important, and make sure you’re picking affordable equipment. 

Remember, you can always upgrade your setup later - when you have made some sweet sponsorship deals and can afford to increase your budget! ;)

Read our in-depth podcast equipment guide for more detailed information about important factors to consider. 

Best podcast equipment for a low-budget setup

You don’t need to break the bank on podcasting equipment when recording and creating high-quality podcast episodes. 

If you’re on a low-budget start with the podcast equipment basics are:

• Microphone(s) 
• Headphone(s)
• Camera and Lighting (if recording video)
• Recording and Editing Software
• Podcast Hosting Software

Disclaimer: Please see our help site guidelines to check the compatibility of any equipment with Riverside.

Here are our top recommendations:

Best budget-friendly podcast microphones

Best USB microphone: Blue Yeti

• Price: $129
• Type:  Condenser
• Polar pattern: Omnidirectional, Bidirectional, Cardioid, and Stereo

This USB microphone is simple and easy-to-use. Just, plug it straight into your laptop or desktop and you can start recording your podcast episodes. 

Whilst the Blue Yeti is not a high-end studio microphone, it offers good enough sound quality, and versatility for any recording setting without a complex setup. 

Key features:

• Headphone jack - Plug your headphones directly into the Yeti to monitor sounds being picked up and recorded.
• Microphone dials - Control headphone volume, microphone sensitivity, and polar pattern with easily accessible microphone dials.
• Durable and professional looking - The Blue Yeti is a sleek and good-looking microphone, that is sturdy, durable, boasting long-lasting performance.

Check out our detailed Blue Yeti review here.

Best XLR microphone: RØDE PodMic

• Price: $99
• Type:  Dynamic
• Polar pattern: Cardioid

This XLR microphone has a sleek and professional look and feel, and at $99 is a very affordable option. 

Made for podcasters, this is a popular microphone that offers you exquisite sound quality for the price point. As a dynamic microphone with a cardioid polar pattern, it’s optimized for recording voice and speech. 

Key features:

• Built-in pop-filter - The PodMic automatically minimizes ‘popping’ plosives when saying words with hard consonants.
• Internal shock mount - The shock mount protects your microphone from any bumps, knocks, or vibrations.
• Integrated swing mount - The swing mount allows you to find the perfect position for your microphone when recording.

Check out our detailed RØDE PodMic review here.

Best portable microphone: RØDE Wireless GO

• Price: $269
• Type: Auto or Dynamic
• Polar pattern: Omnidirectional

The RØDE Wirless Go microphone is ultra-compact, but still offers broadcast-grade recording capabilities. 

Boasting versatility with its clip’n’go design, get crystal-clear audio no matter where you are recording. 

The RØDE Wireless Go is the perfect microphone solution for those looking for a hands-free, high-quality audio option, which can easily record within a range of up to 230 feet.

Key features:

• Built-in rechargeable batteries - Boasting an impressive 7-hour battery life, the batteries are charged via USB-C.
• Ultra-compact design - convenient and travel-friendly, its compact and lightweight design make it the perfect solution for mobile podcasters.
• Crystal-clear audio - using the latest and innovative technology, the Rode Wireless GO delivers clear and sharp audio under any conditions.

Check out our full guide on the best podcast microphones to review more options.

Best budget-friendly headphones

Sennheiser HD 280 Pro

• Price: $89.99 - $99.95
• Type:  Closed Back, Over Ear, Dynamic
• Connection:  Wired

The HD 280 Pro combines an extremely robust and sturdy design, with the highest standards in sound quality and aggressive noise isolation. 

This is one of the best options for lengthy recording or editing sessions, with its soft earpads offering a very comfortable fit.

Key features:

• Unique collapsible design - The ear cups can be folded and rotated for easy transport and space-saving options.
• High ambient noise attenuation - ear cups create a tight seal to block out distracting external noise.
• Accurate, linear sound reproduction - enjoy crystal-clear and accurate audio representation.

Audio-Technica ATH M40x

• Price: $99
• Type:  Closed Back, Over Ear, Dynamic
• Connection:  Wired

The ATH M40x offers crystal-clear, accurate audio with superior sound isolation and flat response reproduction. A great option for podcasters looking for accurate audio monitoring, excellent sound quality, and high levels of comfortability. 

Key features:

• Tuned flat sound monitoring - Enjoy incredibly accurate sound monitoring across the entire frequency range.
• Excellent sound isolation - The circumaural ear pads offer excellent sound isolation even in loud environments.
• Professional-grade durability and comfort - earpads and headband are made from professional-grade materials, offering durability and high levels of comfort.

AKG K92

• Price: $54.96
• Type:  Closed Back, Over Ear, Dynamic
• Connection:  Wired

Get super focused when recording using the AKG K92. They eliminate audio leakage and prevent distractions from external noises. The good-looking, over-ear, and lightweight design offers exceptional style, comfort, and flexibility.

Key features:

• Self-adjusting headband - You’ll get an extra level of comfort with the self-adjusting headband, which ensures you always get the perfect fit.
• Exceptional audio isolation levels - The headphones use an innovative acoustic chamber that sits between the ear cup and the hinge that connects to the headband, offering distraction-free audio isolation.
• Crystal clear audio -  Enjoy crystal clear audio no matter how loud your recording environment is.

For more options check out our podcast headphones guide.

Best podcast cameras

Logitech HD Pro C920S

• Price: $69.99
• Resolution: 1080p/30fps 
• Type: Webcam

Enjoy HD quality at a very affordable price. Mount the Pro C920S to laptops, desktops, or tripods, giving you extra flexibility when recording. 

Level up your podcast production with low-light correction, background replacement, and autofocus. Get the perfect position for video recording with the 5-foot USB cable, even when recording with multiple guests. 

Key features:

• Auto-focus and light correction - This Logitech offers superb picture quality with auto-focus and automatic light correction.
• Privacy shutter - Don’t want to be on camera? Simply use the privacy shutter whenever you don’t want to be in view.
• USB plug-and-play - Quick and easy set up with its efficient USB plug-and-play capabilities.

Logitech StreamCam

• Price: $100 - $140
• Resolution: 1080p/60fps 
• Type: Webcam

This webcam is slighty more expensive than the Pro C920S due to offering higher frames per second. Lower frame rates can appear choppier, whereas videos with higher frame rates appear smoother. 

StreamCam is a great option for podcasters wanting to produce high-level, sleek, and sharp content that looks natural to viewers.

Key features:

• Premium webcam streams - offering full 1080p HD resolution at 60 fps, the StreamCam offers high-end results for podcasters interested in live streaming during recording.
• Sharp, natural, and smooth video - thanks to the premium glass lens, you achieve smooth motion with crystal clear details everytime.
• Auto-focus smart features - get a clear and detailed image of the subject with the innovative auto-focus feature allowing a closer focus range.

Note: Please read our guidelines if you plan on using a Logitech with Riverside.

Bonus: Turn your phone into a web camera

You can turn your mobile phone into a high-resolution web camera for free! This will give you additional features that can help to enhance your podcast production such as adjustable exposure and custom overlays and lower thirds. With Riverside’s mobile app this is as easy as scanning a barcode.

Read more: If you’d like to see more cameras or find a DSLR camera, check out our full guide on the best podcast cameras.

Best podcast lighting 

RALENO Softbox

• Price: $69.99

An affordable option for podcasters to eliminate shadows and bring professional lighting to their video recordings. With its easy-to-operate design, you can get up and running in no time at all.

Logitech Litra Glow

• Price: $59.99

Transform your recording environment with Litra Glow, a quick and efficient way to bring premium video lighting effects to your podcast. Using innovative technology, Litra Glow encompasses the subject in soft and flattering lighting. 

Best podcast recording and editing software 

Riverside

Pricing plans:

• $0 per month - Free
• $15 per month - Standard
• $24 per month - Pro

With studio-quality recording and lightning-fast video editing, Riverside is the go-to, trusted all-in-one online podcast creation platform. 

You can record with remote guests in up to 4K video resolution without worrying about your internet connection. We use local recording so everything records directly to your device instead of relying on your internet connection. 

Our interface is easy to use and you can seamlessly hop into our editor after recording. Here you can try an array of AI tools to trim your video, customize your layout, add captions, and more.

Key features: 

• Studio-quality recordings: Record podcast episodes with up to 4K video and 48kHz audio resolution.
• Local recording: Record directly on your device instead of relying on faulty internet connection.
• Separate tracks: Download separate audio and video tracks for all participants to give you more editing flexibility.
• Browser-based: Don’t waste storage downloading any apps, access our software on any browser.
• Media board: Edit live and use our media board for adding easy sound effects as you record.
• AI-powered Editor: Finalize your video with text-based editing, audio enhancement and customizable backgrounds, captions and layouts.
• Mobile app: Record on the go with any Android or iOS device using the Riverside mobile app. (You can even turn your phone into a secondary camera!)
• Progressive upload: Minimize upload times and risk of data loss with progressive uploading.
• Producer mode: Invite a producer to assist you behind-the-scenes without interfering in your recording. 
• Show notes: Riverside’s AI Shows Notes generates a summary, takeaway, and chapters from your podcast or video content.
• Transcriptions and captions: Riverside automatically transcribes and adds captions for your podcast episodes which is necessary from an accessibility point of view, but also helps with editing.
• Magic clips: easily turn recording highlights into engaging social posts at a click of a button with Riverside’s AI Magic Clips.
• Spotify for Podcasters integration: Riverside’s Spotify integration allows you to record high-quality audio and video directly in their web experience, friends and guests can seamlessly be invited to join a recording with a generated guest link.

Best podcast hosting platforms

Best free podcast hosting platform: Buzzsprout

Buzzsprout is a popular option for podcast hosting as it offers a range of features and pricing plans to suit all levels. It’s also easy to use, offers in-depth podcast analytics, and has reliable customer support.

You can house your podcast on Buzzsprout for free, and distribute your podcast to all the major podcast-playing directories. You can upload up to 2 hours of audio, and your episodes will be hosted for a maximum of 90 days. Get access to advanced downloads and other podcast data, and invite unlimited team members. 

Upgrade to a paid plan to extend your upload time, get episodes hosted indefinitely, and other premium features such as importing podcasts, or creating custom websites.

Key features

• Episodes hosted for 90 days - your podcast episodes will be hosted for a few months at no extra cost.
• Advanced podcast statistics - get access to advanced podcast statistics to measure the success of your podcast.
• Unlimited team members - need to invite other team members to manage your podcast? This isn’t an issue with Buzzspout.

Best paid podcast hosting platform: Captivate

Price:

• $19 per month - Personal
• $49 per month - Professional
• $95 per month - Business

At just $19 per month, Captivate offers podcasters an affordable and accessible podcast hosting solution. Premium features aren’t hidden behind paywalls, all plans have access to everything within the platform. Enjoy no restrictions with unlimited podcasts, uploads and storage, and team members. 

Key features

• 24/7 support team and Growth Labs -  Get support 24/7 with the highly rated customer team, and work on your podcasting skills with Growth Labs.
• Monetization features - Captivate has a range of features to help podcasters monetize through one-off donations, and memberships models.
• Dynamic show notes builder and templates - Save time with the dynamic show notes builder, allowing you to use custom blocks, templates, and shortcodes.
• IAB-certified analytics - Trust in accurate download tracking and other podcasting statistics with industry recognized IAB certified analytics.
• Extensive distribution list - List on all the podcast playing directories and boost the visibility of your podcast. 

Best microphone accessories for podcasting 

Best podcast audio mixers

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2

• Price: $199

The Scarlett 2i2 is an audio interface that allows you to connect your XLR microphone to your laptop or desktop for high-quality audio recording. 

Offering USB plug-and-play capabilities, this compact and stylish interface offers podcasters two combined XLR/jack outputs, a stereo headphone output, two balanced outputs for monitoring, as well as a USB-C connection.

Key features:

• Budget-friendly and easy to use - The Scarlett 2i2 is a cost-effective option for podcasters looking for an audio interface that you can set up in a matter of minutes.
• Extra tools and software - The interface also comes with the Focusrite Hitmaker Expansion, an add-on software package that supports you from start to finish in the audio production process.
• Compact and stylish - Weighing just 1lb, it’s compact and easily portable for podcasters on-the-go. The interface is sleek, and simple, with a characteristic red design.

RØDECaster Pro

• Price: $499

The RØDECaster Pro is the ultimate all-in-one podcasting solution for beginners and professionals alike. This mic offers you superb audio quality and expansive features, all whilst being extremely easy to use.

Featuring 4 microphone inputs, smartphone, USB and Bluetooth channels for seamless recording with remote guests. There are also 8 customizable sound pads for triggering music and sound effects.

Key features:

• Four studio-grade XLR microphone inputs - Crystal-clear audio for up to 4 XLR microphone inputs with studio-grade preamps.
• Flexible storage options - Save audio to microSD or a computer in either stereo or multitrack for flexible editing options in post-production.
• Flexible recording options for remote guests - Choose between Smartphone, USB, and Bluetooth™ channels for remote call options with automatic echo-free audio.

Best pop filter

Auray PFSS-55 Pop Filter

• Price: $22.95

Reduce unwanted noises from plosives with hard consonants such as “p” or “b” sounds with the Auray PFSS-55 Pop Filter. 

The double-layered nylon also prevents other ‘rush of air’ sounds that happen when speaking and breathing, whilst also protecting your microphone from moisture. The flexible gooseneck and easy-mounting locking bolt holds, make it easy to securely fasten the filter wherever you choose.

Best microphone stand

TONOR T20 Mic Arm Stand

• Price: $31.99

The T20 mic arm stand, or boom arm, holds an array of microphones securely in place. Simply secure the heavy-duty clamp to any desk or table, and choose where you want the microphone to be located with the adjustable design.

  Best shock mounts

Shock mounts attach your microphone to either a mic stand or boom arm. They help protect your sound recordings from shock or vibrations.

 YOUSHARES Shock Mount for Yeti

• Price:  $22

YOUSHARES has designed a Shock Mount for the Blue Yeti and Yeti Pro microphone, which is compact in design and compatible with most boom arms without the need for an adapter. The rubber design also prevents scratches and damage to your microphone.

Other shock mount options include:

• Tencro AT2020 - $26 (fits microphones with a diameter between 47mm-53mm)
• Koolertron Universal - $16 (fits microphones with a diameter between 48mm-54mm)
• Rycote 044903 InVision Universal - $89 (fits microphones with a diameter between 18mm-55mm)

Best podcast microphone cables

RØDE Microphone Adaptors and Cables

• Price: $20 - $50

RØDE offers a wide range of adaptors and cables for connecting microphones to a wide range of devices. Find the exact connector you need, whether that is XLR, USB, or something different. Choose from an array of colors, such as subtle blacks or blues, or the more colorful pinks, purples, or oranges.

Examples from RØDE’s adaptors and cables range:

• XLR Cables - These cables are ideal for connected equipment with an XLR connection. - $39 for 3m and $46 for 6m
• Thread Adaptor - You can mount a range of devices to any mic stand or boom arm with adaptors) - $19.95
• HJA-4 - Pack of four adaptors for converting headphones with 3.5mm plugs for use with equipment that has larger headphone sockets - $15

Best podcast equipment for a more professional setup

Shure SM7B Microphone

• Price: $359

For those with a bigger budget, look no further than the Shure SM7B microphone. 

This dynamic microphone delivers smooth vocals every time, capturing and enhancing any voice that is being recorded. 

With a cardioid polar pattern, the SM7B only captures what is in front of the microphone, and ignores unwanted background noise which results in a clearer recording.

You can get dynamic microphones with a cardioid polar pattern at a lower price, so why is the Shure SM7B more expensive, and is it worth it?

• 3 Frequency responses - You have 3 different frequency response settings including Flat Response, Bass Rolloff, and Presence Boost. Flat is great for a natural, smooth, and transparent recording quality. Bass Rolloff allows you to reduce the amount of bass that the microphone captures. Presence Boost accentuates and highlights the mids and trebles of your voice.
• Off-axis rejection - Podcasters consider this microphone as one of the best due to its superior off-axis reject. All unwanted sound behind the microphone is ignored completely, which sets it apart.
• Innovative design - When you compare the Shure SM7B with other microphones, it’s longer, and that’s because its designed for increased low-end response.

Shure SRH940 Headphones

• Price: $299

The SRH940 really can’t be beaten when it comes to sound quality at all frequencies. They’re worth the higher price tag with the sleek, stylish and lightweight design, that can be easily folded for easy storage and podcasters on-the-go. Enjoy extra comfort with a padded headband and velour ear pads, with a replacement set included.

Nikon Z30

• Price: $709.95 - $849.95

Level up your video podcast with the Nikon Z30. This camera boasts a range of high-end features such as automatic eye-tracking technology, enhanced visibility, and image stabilization.

Using the Nikon Z30, you can produce a smooth, professional, and sleek video when streaming your podcast, or creating shorter clips to share over social media.

RØDE Rodecaster Pro II

• Price: $700

The Rodecaster Pro II is much more than an audio interface - it’s also a digital mixer, MIDI controller, and standalone recorder. 

The main difference between the RØDE Rodecaster Pro II and RØDE Rodecaster Pro, is the quality of the preamps. The updated version also offers a substantial amount of inputs that are designed specifically for podcasters. Other perks are robust and sturdy buttons and faders, and other additional beneficial podcasting features.

Best podcast equipment for a portable podcast setup

There are different factors to consider when looking into a portable podcast setup. 

The aforementioned RØDE Wireless GO is a great option for recording episodes on-the-go or in different locations. However, if you would like to transform your mobile device into a microphone, the RØDE smartLav+ is a good alternative. This will cost around the $79.99 price mark.

You may also want to consider going wireless when it comes to headphones, as this will give you more flexibility compared with wired options.

For the best basic podcast equipment options for a portable podcast setup you can try:

• Microphone: RØDE Wireless GO
• Camera: GoPro HERO10
• Headphones: Shure AONIC 40 (Wireless)
•  Software: Riverside (Remote recording on-the-go)

Check out our article which goes into detail about the best portable podcast setup, and other important factors to consider when it comes to your audio quality.

Bonus: What equipment do professional podcasters use?

Are you wondering what podcast setup professional podcasters such as Joe Rogan and Tim Ferris use? We have you covered!

Free download: Want to know which ones are the microphones most commonly used by the Riverside community? Click here and download our list!

Joe Rogan’s podcast equipment kit:

Renowned comedian turned UFC commentator, Joe Rogan is one of the highest-paid podcasters. 

His show, The Joe Rogan Experience, won an exclusive deal with Spotify back in December 2020 for an eye-watering $30 million. As of MArch 2024, the show has a reported 14.5 million followers on Spotify alone.

Here’s his podcast equipment gear:

• Microphone: Shure SM7B
• Headphones: Sennheiser HD280PRO
• Camera(s): Canon Vixia HF G40 Full HD Camcorder and the Canon Vixia HF G50 4K30p Camcorder 

Tim Ferris’ podcast equipment kit:

Ferris is an American entrepreneur, investor, author, and lifestyle guru. His podcast, The Tim Ferris Show, often ranks #1 in the business podcast charts on Apple Podcasts. The podcast is easily one of the most popular shows with more than one billion downloads.

• Microphone: Shure SM58-LC
• Headphones: When he’s recording in person he doesn’t wear headphones, but he has been seen wearing Apple Airpods when recording with remote guests.

FAQs on the Best Podcast Equipment

What is the best equipment to start a podcast?

If you want to take podcasting for a spin, we recommend aiming to keep your costs down. You can always upgrade your equipment and set up further down the line, once you have more episodes under your belt. 

Invest in a decent microphone, use your existing headphones, and look for free recording, editing, and hosting options. For example, Riverside has a plan that allows you to record up to 2 hours for free, and then when you need more hours, simply upgrade to the Standard plan at $15 per month.

Why do podcasters wear headphones?

Wearing headphones substantially, helps to improve the quality of your audio. 

With headphones, you can hear everything that your microphone or recording device is picking up, including unwanted background noise, or other sounds such as popping when you are saying words with hard consonants such as “p’s” or “b’s”. 

You can also monitor audio bleed and adjust your settings or setup as necessary, when an unwanted sound source is recorded by your microphone.

In other words: you can make sure that no unwanted background noise leaks into the recording.

You can manage and eliminate these noises during recording, making the editing process in post-production easier, and also avoid nightmare situations where recorded audio is unusable.