Best Podcast Equipment for Beginners

In 2025, it seems like everyone and their cousin is starting a podcast. With so many voices out there, the market may feel almost oversaturated, but the reality is that there is always room for a fresh voice and a new perspective. 

If you’ve got a unique take, great connections in your industry that would make for awesome guests, or you’re ready to dive into taboo topics that nobody else in your niche dares to touch, then starting a podcast is definitely the right idea.
 

Source: Los Muertos Crew on Pexels 
 

A $50 mic, an iPhone and a tripod may be enough to kick things off, but if you’re serious about making an impact, it might be worth investing in some professional equipment to make sure you look and sound just right. 
 

So let’s have a good look at your options. 

Choosing the right microphone

Podcasts come in different flavors these days, but if you're sticking to the classic audio-only setup – just you, your mic, and a great story to tell – your voice should take center stage. To make sure your message (and that of your guests) don’t get lost in background noise or muffled sounds, choosing the right microphone is key.
 

A great mic does more than just record sound – it amplifies your presence, drawing listeners in and keeping them hooked. 
 

But with so many options out there, it’s tough making a final choice. Let’s have a look at some of the main categories of mics used by podcasters.

USB vs XLR microphones

In your search for the best podcasting mics, you’ll probably come across two main types: USB and XLR microphones. Their names might give a hint about how they connect, but there’s a bit more to consider before you make your choice. 
 

Each type comes with its own perks and quirks, and understanding the differences will help you choose the one that best fits your podcasting style and setup. 
 

USB microphones are the textbook definition of “plug and play.” Much like plugging in a mouse or keyboard, all you need is a USB cable and you’re good to go. Their ease of use is what makes them perfect for people who are just getting started with podcasting, recording solo or working from a small space.

XLR microphones, on the other hand, cater to a slightly more experienced category of users. Compared to USB mics, they essentially require an extra step, which is connecting the microphone to an audio interface (a translator between your mic and computer). They are great for podcasters who enjoy full control over their sound.
 

Bottom line: If you’re just getting started with podcasting, a USB mic is the smart choice. It’s easy to use, sounds professional, and gets you recording in no time. As your podcast grows and you start adding guests or upgrading your setup, you might consider leveling up to an XLR mic for more control and flexibility in your sound. 

Condenser vs dynamic microphones

Every podcaster dreams of having a signature touch: maybe a catchy intro, a funny sign-off, or a quirky sound effect. What if your signature move was your sound? The tone, warmth, and clarity of your voice can become a key part of your podcast’s identity, and it all starts with the type of microphone you choose: condenser or a dynamic.
 

Condenser microphones are ultra-sensitive, which makes them a perfect fit for ASMR-style podcasts, or interviews where peak sound clarity is absolutely crucial. These mics will pick up everything – from a short exhale to the hum of your laptop fan – so it’s best to use them in controlled spaces, like a sound-treated room. 
 

At the other end of the spectrum, we have dynamic microphones. These are less sensitive and they have one main mission: to capture right what’s in front of them (aka your voice) and ignore all the rest. This makes them great for recording in noisy environments or during podcasts with multiple guests or live settings. 
 

Bottom line: Both these types of mics are great for beginners, although dynamic microphones might save you a buck on soundproofing, due to their natural resistance to background noise.

Source: Medy Siregar on Unsplash

Recommended podcast microphones for beginners

Theory is good, but it’s not the real reason you clicked on this article, did you? If you're after some solid podcast microphone recommendations, here goes:

Rode PodMic 

The Rode PodMic is (as the name itself suggests) a dynamic-type microphone designed specifically for podcasts. It’s known for delivering rich, balanced vocal tones while blocking any background noise. 
 

Connectivity: XLR

Why it’s great for beginners: 

• Durable build – made with solid all-metal construction, reducing all worries about wear and tear.
• Pro sound with minimal tweaks – no need for countless EQ settings tweaks or applying heavy post-production 
• Background noise blocking – ideal if you're recording in a less-than-perfect space like a home office or bedroom

HyperX QuadCast 

The HyperX QuadCast is a USB condenser microphone with a sleek and intuitive design. It’s a great choice for podcasters and streamers looking for plug-and-play microphone with professional-grade sound.
 

Connectivity: USB
 

Why it’s great for beginners:

• Plug-and-play setup –  no need for audio interfaces or extra cables
• Built-in shock mount and pop filter – which reduces unwanted vibrations and plosives
• Multiple pickup patterns – so you can easily switch from solo podcasting to interviews or group discussions)
   

Audio-Technica AT2035 

The AT2035 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed to handle a wide dynamic range – ideal for capturing vocals and instruments in a studio setting. It promises to deliver crisp sound without any background noise. 
 

Connectivity: XLR
 

Why it’s great for beginners:

• Great sound quality – keeping your voice front and center at all times 
• Handles loud sounds without distortion – due to its wide dynamic range and high SPL handling
• Easy setup  – despite being an XLR mic which implies an audio interface

Pro tip: If you’re looking to making your microphone sound better regardless of the gear you choose, have a look at our guide to cover all the best practices for audio recording. 

Best headphones for podcasting

Once you’ve got your microphone situation all squared away, it might be time to focus your attention on another key piece of podcast gear – your headphones. Now, some seasoned podcasters might tell you that they get by without using headphones, but as a beginner, it's important to have all the essential equipment in place.

Why you need monitoring headphones

If you're new to podcasting, you might be wondering, "why do I even need headphones? My mic does all the recording, right?" That may be true, but you still need a way to monitor what you’re recording in real time, and that is where headphones come in. 
 

Monitoring headphones allow you listen closely to your audio and look out for: 

• Background noise, echo and sound distortions – these can sneak into your recording without you noticing, but headphones will help you catch them.
• Audio feedback – which can happen when your mic picks up audio from your speakers, create an echo or loop
• Unwanted sounds – things like loud breaths, random noises or inconsistencies that need to be cleaned up during editing.
• Unbalanced audio levels –  this makes sure that your voice and other audio elements are at consistent levels throughout the recording
   

Source: Daniel Robert Dinu on Unsplash

Best podcast headphones for beginners

As far as headphones go, you’ve got plenty of options – but not every headphone model out there is designed specifically to help with podcasting. Here are a few of our top recommendations to keep in mind in your search for monitoring headsets: 

Sennheiser HD 280 Pro 

The Sennheiser HD 280 Pro headphones deliver excellent sound quality, making them ideal for podcasters who need accurate audio monitoring. Released back in 2003, they’ve stood the test of time in a world where most audio tech becomes obsolete in just a few years.
 

Connectivity: Wired (3.5 mm jack with 6.3 mm adapter)​
 

Why they’re great for beginners:
 

• Effective noise attenuation – this headset provides up to 32 dB attenuation of outside sound, making it easy focus on your audio without any external distractions
   
• Precise sound reproduction  – clear and linear sound reproduction, which is crucial for precise audio editing and monitoring.
   
• Comfortable fit – thanks to their soft earpads, these headphones provide comfort during long recording or editing sessions

Logitech G733 Lightspeed

The Logitech G733 Lightspeed is a wireless headset that combines performance with advanced audio technologies. Even though they are marketed primarily as a gaming headset, these headphones are also ideal for beginner podcasts who prefer a simpler, wireless setup without compromising on sound quality. 
 

Connectivity: Wireless (USB receiver included)​
 

Why they’re great for beginners:

• Highly convenient – less cable clutter in your workspace, thanks to 20 meters of wireless ranges and Lightspeed audio transmission
  ​
• Comfortable for extended use – podcasting often implies extended use of your headphones, which is this headset features a suspension headband and dual-layer memory foam earcup to maximize comfort
   
• Pristine sound – they come equipped with PRO-G audio drivers for precise sound imaging 

Audio-Technica ATH-M20x 

A perfect match for your Audio-Technica microphone, the Audio-Technica ATH-M20x is a great entry level choice for studio headphones. Designed for studio tracking and mixing, they help podcasters and content creators get reliable and accurate sound reproduction.​

Connectivity: Wired (3.5 mm jack with 6.3 mm adapter)​

Why they’re great for beginners:

• Accurate sound reproduction – these headphones deliver clear and detailed audio, essential for monitoring recording, thanks their 40 mm drivers and enhanced low-frequency performance
   
• Comfortable design – they offer a perfect combination of sound isolation and comfort during extended use
   
• Durable build - they are built to withstand the rigors of daily use while still being lightweight 
   

Audio interfaces and mixers

Here we go – more audio jargon. The truth is, in your journey to becoming a professional podcaster you might come across a variety of terms describing different devices that aim to bring more flexibility into your podcast recording and editing process.
 

So is the case for audio interfaces and mixers. They serve similar (and highly important) functions for podcasting, but there are some fundamental differences that set them apart. 
 

Audio interfaces 
I mentioned earlier that if you’re using an XLR microphone, you can’t just plug it in your computer, you need an audio interface to help it connect. Keeping that in mind, an audio interface serves as a translator between your microphone and your computer, by taking the analog sound produced by your microphone and transforming it into a digital format that your computer can understand. 

Most audio interfaces (also known as soundboards) allow you to monitor your audio in real time using something called phantom power (needed for condenser mics). 
 

Mixers 
Mixers function as the command center for your audio setup. They allow you to connect multiple microphones or sound sources and control the volume and tone of each one individually. Many mixers also offer options to add effects or adjust EQ settings in real time.
 

What to choose
if you're recording solo (with an XLR mic) and want a simple, straightforward recording setup, go for an audio interface.  If you're podcasting with multiple guests or co-hosts, and have more complex sound needs, look for a mixer that gives you more control and flexibility. 

Source: Grooveland Designs on Pexels

Computers and recording devices 

No matter what gear you choose to record and monitor your podcast audio, everything ends up running through your computer. This is the heart of your setup, offering not only ample storage space but also the flexibility to fine-tune your sound however you see fit.
 

It should go without saying, but a good computer needs to handle the heavy lifting of recording, editing, and processing your podcast without crashing at the worst possible moments (or, ideally, never). The key is finding a balance: a device that combines power and performance with portability and ease of use.

Laptops vs desktops: what’s better for podcasting? 

When it comes to podcasting, both laptops and desktops have their pros and cons. Your choice depends largely on how you plan to record and edit your content.
 

Laptops 
Perhaps the great advantage of using laptops is their portability. They are ideal for podcasters with mobile setups, who like to record and edit their content on the go. They are also great space-savers, perfect for those working in smaller environments – which is often the case for podcasters who are just getting started and don’t want to invest in a dedicated space. 
 

At the end of the day, laptops offer an all-in-one solution, given that most come with built-in mics, speakers and other essential components needed for a basic recording setup – usually for a much lower price than that of a desktop PC.
 

Desktops
Given their size and hardware capabilities, desktops offer more processing power, able to handle intensive and complex editing tasks. To match all the power, they’re also equipped with professional coolers, which reduces the chances of overheating during long editing sessions. 
 

Compared to laptops, desktops are far more customizable – you can easily upgrade or replace key components like hard drives or RAM as your podcasting needs grow. 
 

What to choose
If you’re just getting started with podcasting, a laptop might be all you need to handle your recording and editing tasks without requiring a big investment. However, if you already have a high-performing desktop computer that you can slightly tweak to serve your podcast needs, more power is always welcome. Do keep in mind that this will force you to always record and edit in the same place. 

Best podcasting laptops and computers for beginners

With great power comes great responsibility – and it's up to your laptop or computer to handle multitasking with ease and grace. Whether you're recording, editing or managing multiple projects at once, you need a device that can keep up without slowing you down. 

Here are some of our top recommendations for laptops and desktops that strike the perfect balance of performance, portability, and affordability for podcasters at the start of their podcasting journey: 

Apple MacBook Pro with M4 Pro

The MacBook Pro’s powerful processor and portable design make it a wonderful choice for podcasters who need ample power for multi-taking and audio editing, while still enjoying the versatility to work from anywhere.
 

Why it’s great for beginners:

• Long battery life – all-day battery life, designed for uninterrupted editing sessions
   
• High performance – the M4 Pro chip graciously handles intensive editing tasks and podcast production
   
• Portability – easy to grab and go 

Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 13.5” Touch-Screen 

The Microsoft Surface is a lightweight laptop with a sleek design that features a sharp display and handy touch screen functionality, making it an excellent tool for those who value convenience, especially when editing or recording on the move.
 

Why it’s great for beginners:

• Affordable performance – a budget-friendly that still guarantees high-performance and flexibility 
   
• Touch screen – intuitive editing experience at the touch of a finger
   
• Compact and portable – easy to carry for field recordings

HP Envy 34 inch All-in-One Desktop PC

If you're looking for a powerful, dedicated desktop for your stationary podcast space, the HP Envy desktop is a solid choice. Its Intel i5 processor guarantees smooth multitasking, while its high-resolution 5120x2160 display offers an expansive viewing area, perfect for editing and managing all your content at once.
 

Why it’s great for beginners:

• Reliable processing power – ensures smooth editing and recording
   
• Room for expansion – easy to upgrade as your podcast grows and your demands increase
   
• Affordable option – great value for budding podcasters

Software for recording and editing your podcast

Once you’ve got your mic, headphones, and computer all set up, the next logical step is to go searching for the best podcast recording and editing software you can find. This software is what is going to help you transform raw audio into a polished, attention-worthy episode, by effectively cleaning up background noise, balancing audio levels, adding sound effects and much, much more. 
 

Don’t worry – you don’t have to be a sound engineer to get started. Most podcast editing tools out there are beginner-friendly and specifically designed to grow with your skills.
 

Source: Call Me Fred on Unsplash

Best podcast recording software

If there’s something that can make a huge difference in your podcast production and workflow, it’s your recording software. You need a reliable tool that can capture your voice and any guest audio with perfect clarity – and that’s just the bare minimum. 
 

Let’s have a look at some great recording software options for beginners.

Audacity 

If you’re just starting out and looking for a free podcast recording software to count on, you might want to give Audacity a try. It’s lightweight, and works smoothly on every operating system out there. Don’t let its old-school interface fool you, Audacity is a powerful tool that can give a solid foundation for podcasting basics. 
 

Why it’s great for beginners:

• Completely free – no subscriptions or hidden fees, perfect for beginners that have a limited budget
   
• Cross-platform – Works on just about any computer.
   
• Customizable – tons of plugins (including VST3 and Nyquist) and effects for improving sound

Podcastle 

Podcastle is an all-in-one, web-based recording and editing platform designed for podcasting. It includes a wide range of AI-powered audio enhanced tools for audio enhancement and editing, built-in features for remote interviews and the option to do multitrack editing. 
 

Why it’s great for beginners:

• Accessibility – intuitive layout, accessible from your browser with no downloads necessary 
   
• Hosting Hub – easy podcast distribution across all major platforms 
   
• AI features – clean up audio and remove filler words with Magic Dust AI, create audio content with AI voices, etc.

Riverside

If you often record episodes with guests joining remotely, Riverside might be your new best friend. This one is a browser-based platform that captures studio-quality audio and video locally on each participant’s device, then syncs everything to the cloud.
 

Why it’s great for beginners:

• Magic Audio – instantly remove background noise and polish your sound with AI, just like in a professional studio
   
• Text-based editing – edit any video or audio transcription like a document
   
• Multitrack recording – get separate, crosstalk-free files for each individual speaker 

Best podcast editing software

Some podcast veterans might argue that the real fun of podcasting begins once your audio is recorded, in the editing phrase. This is where you clean up your tracks, cut out awkward silences or ramblings, balance volumes and shape your episode into something listeners will tune in to. 

Even for total beginners, this process can be very entertaining and of course, educational. Here are some excellent editing tools to help you edit your podcast like a pro, even if you’re just getting started: 
 

Flixier

When it’s not flexing its muscles as a blazing-fast video editor, Flixier doubles as an excellent audio podcast editor. Designed for speed and simplicity, our tool is ideal for beginner podcasters who want to have full control over their podcast audio, collaborate, and publish content without wasting time and energy on complex software. 
 

Why it’s great for beginners:

• AI audio enhancement – get clean, studio-quality sound without needing advanced audio skills.
   
• Built-in sound library – incorporate royalty-free music and sound effects from our massive sound library
   
• One-click audio transcription – turn your podcast into text to create captions, boost SEO, or repurpose your content
   

Pro tip: Flixier is also great for recording any solo or remote podcasts, using the handy online voice recorder right from your browser!

Reaper 

Reaper is a digital audio workstation (or DAW) built for high customization and lightweight performance. For a total beginner, Reaper might seem like an intimidating tool to use at first – and to be honest, its retro interface isn’t doing it any favors. However, once you get the hang of it, it becomes incredibly intuitive to use. 
 

Why it’s great for beginners:

• Affordable license – one of the most cost-effective pro-level editing tools out there
   
• Highly customizable – tweak the interface to suit your workflow
   
• Studio-quality effects – includes advanced tools for processing audio and MIDI, plus built-in options to create your own 

Hindenburg 

If your passion for podcasting comes from a love of storytelling, Hindenburg might feel like home. Created specifically with podcasters and storytellers in mind, it takes care of the technical side so you can focus on your narrative. It also features automatic audio leveling and voice profiling which saves you hours in the editing phase without compromising on quality. 
 

Why it’s great for beginners:

• Auto-leveling – balance voice levels automatically so the audio always sounds even
   
• Story-first design – made for voice recordings and narrative formats, ideal for interview-style or documentary-style podcasts
   
• Field Recorder for iPhone – capture studio-quality audio anytime, anywhere with your iPhone, anywhere (perfect for mobile podcasters)

Publishing and distributing your podcast

Once your podcast is recorded, edited, and polished, it's time to release it into the world. Luckily, there are many platforms where you can easily publish your podcast and reach millions of people, such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts.
 

To do this, you’ll need a podcast hosting platform – essentially a service that stores your audio files and generates an RSS feed for automatic distribution. These platforms usually offer built-in analytics and monetization options. 
 

Here are some of the popular podcast hosting platforms you can try: 

• Buzzsprout 
• Acast
• Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters)
• Captivate
• Podbean

Final tips for choosing the right podcast equipment

We’ve been busy mapping out all the right podcast equipment for beginners, but one thing is certain: there’s no universal setup that works for everyone. Beyond our recommendations, your ideal equipment is defined by your goals, as well as your time and budget restraints. 
 

So I will leave you with a few takeaways, or quick tips to keep in mind as you’re stepping into the podcasting world: 
 

• Start with what you have – Don’t feel pressured to invest in the most expensive gear up front. Start with the basics (some of which you may already have) and only upgrade when you need to. 
   
• Audio quality is key – When listeners tune in to your podcast, your voice (and maybe that of your guests) is the only thing they get, so make sure it’s great. Prioritize high-quality microphones for crystal-clear, customizable sound, and get some good monitoring headphones to keep everything in check. 
   
• Consider your space – The space your record in has a bigger impact on your podcast sound than you think. If you go out of your way to make your space quiet and echo-free, it might even save you from spending extra on pricey gear down the line.