Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB vs Rode PodMic
A side-by-side look at Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB and Rode PodMic for podcasters: pricing, features, and where each one wins.
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB
24-bit dual-output dynamic with condenser-grade resolution at a budget price
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Rode PodMic
Purpose-built broadcast dynamic that punches above its price
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| Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB | Rode PodMic | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | See site | See site |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | No | No |
| Best for | Budget-conscious podcasters who want 24-bit USB audio and a clean upgrade path to XLR | Podcasters who want a focused XLR dynamic mic with a tight cardioid pattern and minimal setup fuss |
Key features
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB
- Dynamic cardioid, USB-C and XLR simultaneous output
- 24-bit / 192kHz USB analog-to-digital conversion
- 3.5mm headphone output for zero-latency monitoring
- Includes USB-C to USB-C, USB-C to USB-A, and XLR cables
- Includes tripod desk stand
- Cardioid polar pattern for front-address recording
Rode PodMic
- Dynamic cardioid, XLR only
- 20 Hz - 20 kHz frequency response
- Internal pop filter
- Internal shock mount
- Integrated swing mount
- 320 ohm output impedance
Pros and cons
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB
Pros
- 24-bit/192kHz USB - best-in-class resolution for a budget dynamic
- Both USB-C and XLR outputs simultaneously available
- Ships with all necessary cables
- Genuine dynamic rejection of room noise
Cons
- Handheld body design sits awkwardly in a studio boom arm
- Tonally leaner than premium dynamics - less low-end warmth
- Headphone output lacks volume control
Rode PodMic
Pros
- Warm broadcast tone straight out of the box
- Internal pop filter reduces plosives without an external screen
- Solid all-metal build
- Great value for a dedicated XLR dynamic
Cons
- XLR only - no USB option (see PodMic USB for that)
- Still needs adequate gain from your interface
- No headphone monitoring built in
The verdict
Choose Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB if
Budget-conscious podcasters who want 24-bit USB audio and a clean upgrade path to XLR.
The 24-bit/192kHz converter is what sets the ATR2100x-USB apart from the Samson Q2U at a similar price - you can hear it, especially if you're listening back on good headphones. The cardioid dynamic capsule does the expected work of rejecting…
Choose Rode PodMic if
Podcasters who want a focused XLR dynamic mic with a tight cardioid pattern and minimal setup fuss.
Rode nailed the value proposition here - the PodMic sounds like a more expensive mic and the internal pop filter actually works, which means you can get close to the capsule without fighting plosives. The swing mount is convenient and…