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Audio-Technica AT2040USB Review | 76 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£130
  • Avg. price in US: ~$150
  • Connection type: USB
  • Transducer type: dynamic
  • Max SPL: ?
  • Supported sample rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96 kHz
  • Output connector type: USB-c

Audio-Technica AT2040USB review. Compare 76 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among microphones and if it is worth buying.

7.4

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the microphone's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best microphones on the market.

Score components:

75.0%

7.4

Technical Score

25.0%

?

User score

Very good
7.4

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

7.9

Audio Performance

20.0%

7.9

Recording

16.0%

2.4

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

8.4

Controls & Features

10.0%

10

Power

7.0%

10

Compatibility

5.0%

6.2

Connectivity

3.0%

7.9

Design

3.0%

9.4

Accessories

Very good
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 9.4
    Gaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Zero-latency monitoring

    25.0%

    10

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    10

    Mute function

    20.0%

    10

    Volume control levels

    10.0%

    4.0

    RGB lighting

  • 6.9
    Podcasting

    Score components:

    25.0%

    1.0

    Cardioid pattern

    20.0%

    10

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    10

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    10

    Audio interface bit depth

    15.0%

    4.0

    Audio interface sample rate

  • 4.2
    Vocal recording

    Score components:

    40.0%

    ?

    Max SPL

    20.0%

    2.8

    Highest frequency

    20.0%

    1.0

    Lowest frequency

    20.0%

    1.0

    Cardioid pattern

  • 8.5
    Streaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    4.0

    Loopback support

    25.0%

    10

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    10

    Onboard gain control

    15.0%

    10

    Mute function

    15.0%

    10

    Volume control levels

  • 9.3
    Camera use

    Score components:

    30.0%

    7.7

    Weight

    25.0%

    10

    Windscreen included

    25.0%

    10

    Shock mount included

    10.0%

    10

    Height

    10.0%

    9.6

    Width

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £130

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Audio-Technica AT2040USB is a hypercardioid dynamic microphone designed for broadcasting, featuring a high-resolution A/D converter with up to 24-bit/96 kHz sampling rates and a frequency response of 80–16,000 Hz. Key characteristics include a touch-sensitive capacitive mute button with a blue/red LED indicator, a built-in 3.5mm headphone jack for zero-latency monitoring, and physical dials for both headphone volume and monitor mix control. Its primary advantages are excellent off-axis noise rejection due to the narrow hypercardioid pattern, a built-in multistage foam windscreen for plosive protection, and an integrated shock mount to dampen vibrations. However, notable drawbacks include its relatively heavy 615g weight, the absence of an included desktop stand, and reported issues with shock rejection performance despite the internal mount.

Technical Specifications of Audio-Technica AT2040USB

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

?

Audio Performance

20.0%

?

Recording

16.0%

?

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

?

Controls & Features

10.0%

?

Power

7.0%

?

Compatibility

5.0%

?

Connectivity

3.0%

?

Design

3.0%

?

Accessories

7.4
Audio-Technica AT2040USB has a technical score of 7.41 points, which is higher than 72.4% of microphones.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the microphone.
When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
1.0
Audio-Technica AT2040USB has a popularity of 1 points, which is lower than 68.3% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the microphone's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a microphone with a good balance between quality and price.

Score components:

60.0%

7.4

Overall score

40.0%

9.8

Price

8.1
Audio-Technica AT2040USB has a quality-to-price ratio of 8.1 points, which is higher than 56.8% of products in this category.
Microphone type
What it is: The overall microphone class intended for uses such as studio work, lavalier recording, handheld speech, or instrument capture.
When it matters: When you are choosing the right microphone style for studio work, interviews, streaming, or instruments.

Importance: LOW

studio
Transducer type
What it is: The transducer technology used to convert sound into an electrical signal.
When it matters: When you are choosing between condenser, dynamic, or ribbon behavior for your room and voice.

Importance: LOW

dynamic
Diaphragm size
What it is: The diameter of the microphone diaphragm that reacts to incoming sound pressure.
When it matters: When you compare small and large diaphragm microphones for vocal detail, room tone, or transient response.

Importance: LOW

?
Capsule type
What it is: The capsule construction used inside the microphone to capture sound.
When it matters: When you compare different capsule designs for tone, detail, or recording style.

Importance: LOW

single
Sensitivity
What it is: The output level produced by the microphone for a given sound pressure reference.
When it matters: When you need enough output level without driving your preamp too hard.

Importance: LOW

-53.2 dBV/Pa
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Connection type
What it is: The connection standard used to link the microphone with recorders, mixers, phones, or computers.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to plug directly into the device you actually record with.

Importance: LOW

USB
Output connector type
What it is: The type of output connector used by the microphone for sending its audio signal.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to connect to a specific kind of input on your gear.

Importance: LOW

USB-c
Headphone output
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a headphone output for direct monitoring.
When it matters: When you want to hear your own voice directly while recording or streaming.

Importance: LOW

yes
Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes a headphone output. 62.9% of microphones include this output.
3.5 mm audio jack
What it is: Indicates whether a 3.5 mm audio jack is available for monitoring or direct connection.
When it matters: When you want to plug headphones or a cable directly into a standard 3.5 mm socket.

Importance: LOW

yes
Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes a 3.5 mm jack. 62.8% of microphones include this connector.
6.35 mm audio jack connector
What it is: Indicates whether a 6.35 mm audio jack connector is present on the microphone or included interface.
When it matters: When your headphones, mixer, or instrument chain relies on a 6.35 mm jack connection.

Importance: LOW

no
Audio-Technica AT2040USB does not include a 6.35 mm jack. 2% of microphones include this connector.
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Supported sample rates
What it is: The digital sample rates supported by the microphone for recording or monitoring.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to support the sample rates used in your recording workflow.

Importance: LOW

44.1, 48, 88.2, 96 kHz
Supported bit depths
What it is: The digital bit depth values supported by the microphone for audio capture.
When it matters: When you want more digital recording resolution for editing or processing later.

Importance: LOW

16, 24 bit
Audio interface sample rate
What it is: The audio interface sample rates supported by the microphone for digital capture or monitoring.
When it matters: When you need the microphone interface to support the sample rate used by your recording or streaming setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

96 kHz
Audio-Technica AT2040USB supports an interface sample rate of 96 kHz which is higher than that of 58.2% of microphones and equal to that of 24.1% of microphones.
Audio interface bit depth
What it is: The audio interface bit depths supported by the microphone for digital recording quality.
When it matters: When you want the microphone interface to support the bit depth used in your recording chain.

Importance: LOW

24 bit
Audio-Technica AT2040USB supports an interface bit depth of 24 bit which is higher than that of 41.8% of microphones and equal to that of 57.1% of microphones.
Signal-to-noise ratio (DAC)
What it is: The signal to noise ratio of the integrated DAC or headphone interface stage.
When it matters: When you monitor through the microphone headphone output and want that digital path to stay quiet.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
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N. of polar patterns
What it is: The number of selectable pickup patterns available for different recording situations.
When it matters: When one microphone has to cover solo voice, room sound, and interview style setups.

Importance: MEDIUM

1
The number of selectable polar patterns offered by Audio-Technica AT2040USB is 1, which is equal to that of 75.4% of microphones.
Cardioid pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a cardioid pickup pattern for front focused capture.
When it matters: When you want to isolate one speaker in front of the microphone for podcasts, calls, or streaming.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Audio-Technica AT2040USB does not support a cardioid pickup pattern. 91.5% of microphones support this pattern.
Omnidirectional pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers an omnidirectional pickup pattern for 360 degree capture.
When it matters: When you want to capture everyone around the microphone instead of one voice from the front.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Audio-Technica AT2040USB does not support an omnidirectional pickup pattern. 26.1% of microphones support this pattern.
Hypercardioid pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a hypercardioid pickup pattern with narrower front focus.
When it matters: When you want stronger rejection of sounds coming from the sides in a noisy room.

Importance: LOW

yes
Audio-Technica AT2040USB supports a hypercardioid pickup pattern. 1% of microphones support this pattern.
Bidirectional pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a bidirectional pickup pattern for front and rear capture.
When it matters: When you record two people facing each other with one microphone between them.

Importance: LOW

no
Audio-Technica AT2040USB does not support a bidirectional pickup pattern. 17.1% of microphones support this pattern.
Mute function
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a built in mute control for quickly silencing the signal.
When it matters: When you need to silence the microphone instantly during live calls, streams, or meetings.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes a mute function. 67.8% of microphones include this control.
Onboard gain control
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.
When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes onboard gain control. 51% of microphones include this control.
Volume control levels
What it is: The available volume level or volume adjustment provided directly on the microphone or its interface.
When it matters: When you want direct volume adjustment on the microphone or its built in interface.

Importance: LOW

2
Audio-Technica AT2040USB offers volume output of 2 which is higher than that of 84.6% of microphones and equal to that of 14.4% of microphones.
Flat DSP mode
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a flat DSP mode without tonal processing.
When it matters: When you want a neutral sound profile before adding your own EQ or processing.

Importance: LOW

no
Audio-Technica AT2040USB does not support a flat DSP mode. 25.5% of microphones offer this processing option.
DSP presets
What it is: The number of built in DSP preset modes available for different sound profiles.
When it matters: When you want quick tone changes for voice, streaming, or different recording scenes.

Importance: LOW

0
Audio-Technica AT2040USB offers 0 DSP presets, which is equal to 83.4% of microphones.
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Phantom power required
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone needs external phantom power to operate normally.
When it matters: When you use the microphone with an interface or mixer that may not provide phantom power.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Audio-Technica AT2040USB requires phantom power. 90.4% of microphones also require phantom power.
Phantom power voltage
What it is: The phantom power voltage required by the microphone for proper operation.
When it matters: When you must confirm that your power supply matches what the microphone actually expects.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB bus-powered
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can be powered directly through its USB connection.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to run from a laptop or phone without a separate power supply.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Audio-Technica AT2040USB supports USB bus power. 85.9% of microphones support USB-powered operation.
Battery life
What it is: The expected operating time on battery power during portable or wireless use.
When it matters: When you use the microphone away from wall power for events, field work, or mobile video.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Height
What it is: The overall height of the microphone body, stand, or supplied desktop structure.
When it matters: When the microphone has to fit under a monitor, inside a booth, or into a limited desk space.

Importance: LOW

145.3 mm
Audio-Technica AT2040USB is 145.3 mm tall, which is shorter than 85.6% of microphones.
Width
What it is: The overall width of the microphone body or its integrated base.
When it matters: When the microphone must fit between monitors, on a narrow desk, or inside a compact rig.

Importance: LOW

52 mm
Audio-Technica AT2040USB is 52 mm wide, which is narrower than 65.3% of microphones and equal in width to 6.1% of microphones.
Thickness
What it is: The overall depth or front to back thickness of the microphone unit.
When it matters: When front to back depth decides whether the microphone clears your screen or keyboard area.

Importance: LOW

52 mm
Audio-Technica AT2040USB is 52 mm thick, which is thinner than 62.1% of microphones and equal in thickness to 6.8% of microphones.
Weight
What it is: The total mass of the microphone with its included or attached parts.
When it matters: When you mount the microphone on a small arm, pack it for travel, or hold it for long sessions.

Importance: LOW

600 g
Audio-Technica AT2040USB weighs 600 g, which is heavier than 55.8% of microphones and equal in weight to 1.3% of microphones.
Body material
What it is: The main material used for the microphone body or housing.
When it matters: When you care about how sturdy, premium, or lightweight the microphone body feels over time.

Importance: LOW

metal
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Included accessories
What it is: The accessories supplied in the box with the microphone for mounting, protection, or immediate use.
When it matters: When you want the box to include the accessories needed to set up and use the microphone right away.

Importance: LOW

desk clamp; cable; mount adapter
Shock mount included
What it is: Indicates whether a shock mount is included to reduce vibration and handling noise.
When it matters: When desk vibrations or boom arm movement would otherwise travel into the recording.

Importance: LOW

yes
Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes a shock mount. 49.5% of microphones include this accessory.
Pop filter included
What it is: Indicates whether a pop filter is included to reduce plosive sounds during speech recording.
When it matters: When you record speech up close and want to reduce strong p and b bursts.

Importance: LOW

yes
Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes a pop filter. 60.9% of microphones include this accessory.
Windscreen included
What it is: Indicates whether a windscreen is included to reduce wind and breath noise.
When it matters: When you record outdoors or close to the mouth and want less wind or breath noise.

Importance: LOW

yes
Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes a windscreen. 31.3% of microphones include this accessory.
Internal multistage foam mesh windscreen.
Cable length
What it is: The length of the included or attached audio cable supplied with the microphone.
When it matters: When the microphone has to reach your desk, camera rig, or interface without extension cables.

Importance: LOW

2 m
Audio-Technica AT2040USB has a cable length of 2 m which is longer than that of 37.4% of microphones and equal to that of 23.9% of microphones.
Android compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Android phones or tablets.
When it matters: When you plan to use the microphone with an Android phone or tablet without trial and error.

Importance: LOW

yes
Audio-Technica AT2040USB is compatible with Android. 65.8% of microphones are compatible with Android.
iOS compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with iPhone or iPad devices.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to work properly with an iPhone or iPad setup.

Importance: LOW

yes
Audio-Technica AT2040USB is compatible with iOS. 61.3% of microphones are compatible with iOS.
Windows compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Windows computers.
When it matters: When your recording or streaming setup runs on a Windows computer.

Importance: LOW

yes
Audio-Technica AT2040USB is compatible with Windows. 100% of microphones are compatible with Windows.
macOS compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with macOS computers.
When it matters: When your audio setup depends on a Mac or MacBook as the main recording machine.

Importance: LOW

yes
Audio-Technica AT2040USB is compatible with macOS. 99.5% of microphones are compatible with macOS.
Xbox compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone is explicitly compatible with Xbox consoles or controllers.
When it matters: When you want to connect and use the microphone with an Xbox console or controller.

Importance: LOW

?
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Audio-Technica AT2040USB vs the average microphone

  • Supports hypercardioid pickup
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB supports hypercardioid pickup, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a hypercardioid pickup pattern with narrower front focus.
    When it matters: When you want stronger rejection of sounds coming from the sides in a noisy room.

    Importance: LOW

    Audio-Technica AT2040USB supports hypercardioid pickup, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes mix control
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone lets you balance microphone audio and playback audio directly on the device.
    When it matters: When game audio or playback needs to be balanced against your live microphone level.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes high-pass filter
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone includes a high pass filter for reducing low frequency rumble.
    When it matters: When you need to cut rumble from desks, traffic, air conditioning, or stage vibration.

    Importance: LOW

    Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
  • 48 kHz higher interface sample rate
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB supports a higher audio interface sample rate than the average microphone (96 kHz vs 48 kHz). The average microphone audio interface supports 48 kHz.
    What it is: The audio interface sample rates supported by the microphone for digital capture or monitoring.
    When it matters: When you need the microphone interface to support the sample rate used by your recording or streaming setup.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Audio-Technica AT2040USB supports a higher audio interface sample rate than the average microphone (96 kHz vs 48 kHz). The average microphone audio interface supports 48 kHz.96 kHz vs 48 kHz
  • Includes shock mount
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether a shock mount is included to reduce vibration and handling noise.
    When it matters: When desk vibrations or boom arm movement would otherwise travel into the recording.

    Importance: LOW

    Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes windscreen
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes a windscreen, the average microphone does not.
    Internal multistage foam mesh windscreen.
    What it is: Indicates whether a windscreen is included to reduce wind and breath noise.
    When it matters: When you record outdoors or close to the mouth and want less wind or breath noise.

    Importance: LOW

    Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes a windscreen, the average microphone does not.
  • 3 newer release date
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB is newer than the average microphone (2,023 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
    May 2023.
    What it is: The period when the microphone model was officially introduced to the market.
    When it matters: When you want a newer microphone platform with current connectivity or software support.

    Importance: LOW

    Audio-Technica AT2040USB is newer than the average microphone (2,023 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.2023 vs 2020
  • 39.7 mm shorter body
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB is shorter than the average microphone (145.3 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.
    What it is: The overall height of the microphone body, stand, or supplied desktop structure.
    When it matters: When the microphone has to fit under a monitor, inside a booth, or into a limited desk space.

    Importance: LOW

    Audio-Technica AT2040USB is shorter than the average microphone (145.3 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.145.3 mm vs 185 mm
  • 34 mW higher headphone output power
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB has a higher headphone output power than the average microphone (77 mW vs 43 mW). The average microphone has a headphone output power of 43 mW.
  • Includes mix control
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
  • 48 kHz higher interface sample rate
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB supports a higher audio interface sample rate than the average microphone (96 kHz vs 48 kHz). The average microphone audio interface supports 48 kHz.
  • Supports hypercardioid pickup
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB supports hypercardioid pickup, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes high-pass filter
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
  • 3 newer release date
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB is newer than the average microphone (2,023 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
  • 39.7 mm shorter body
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB is shorter than the average microphone (145.3 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.
  • Includes shock mount
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes windscreen
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB includes a windscreen, the average microphone does not.

Total
Connectivity
Recording
Pickup Patterns
Controls & Features
Design
Accessories
  • 60 Hz higher low-frequency limit
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (80 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.
  • 4,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (16,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.
  • No cardioid pickup
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB does not support cardioid pickup, the average microphone does.
  • 60 Hz higher low-frequency limit
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (80 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.
    What it is: The lowest sound frequency the microphone can capture.
    When it matters: When you want the microphone to capture more low end from deep voices or instruments.

    Importance: LOW

    Audio-Technica AT2040USB has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (80 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.80 Hz vs 20 Hz
  • 4,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (16,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.
    What it is: The highest sound frequency the microphone can capture.
    When it matters: When you need extra top end detail from breath, cymbals, or bright room ambience.

    Importance: LOW

    Audio-Technica AT2040USB has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (16,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.16000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
  • No cardioid pickup
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB does not support cardioid pickup, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a cardioid pickup pattern for front focused capture.
    When it matters: When you want to isolate one speaker in front of the microphone for podcasts, calls, or streaming.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Audio-Technica AT2040USB does not support cardioid pickup, the average microphone does.
  • 4.75x less popular
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB has a lower popularity than the average microphone (1.00 vs 4.748).
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the microphone.
    When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB has a lower popularity than the average microphone (1.00 vs 4.748).1 vs 4.75
  • 85.7% more expensive
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB is more expensive than the average microphone (£130 vs £70).
    Audio-Technica AT2040USB is more expensive than the average microphone (£130 vs £70).£130 vs £70
Total
Overall
Audio Performance
Pickup Patterns

Graphic comparison of Audio-Technica AT2040USB and

Attribute category
Attribute
No results found

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Audio-Technica AT2040USB?

  • Solid metal construction ("tank-proof" build quality)
  • Simple Plug-and-Play setup via USB-C
  • Excellent natural ambient noise cancellation (hypercardioid)
  • Warm, professional sound, great for podcasts and streaming
  • Useful features included: silent touch mute button, monitoring mix, low-cut filter
  • Effective built-in pop filter

What customers dislike about Audio-Technica AT2040USB?

  • The frequency response may sound artificial or too boosted in the upper mids for some
  • Poor handling of structural vibrations (often requires a separate boom arm)
  • The included USB cable may be too short
  • The stand adapter materials are plastic
  • Slightly high price compared to other competing USB dynamic microphones

Expert reviews

M
musicradar.com
22/02/2024
Audio-Technica AT2040USB review - MusicRadar

The Audio-Technica AT2040USB is a highly capable, low-cost dynamic microphone specifically designed for speech applications like podcasting, streaming, vlogging, and voiceover work. Swapping the traditional XLR connection of the original AT2040 for a plug-and-play USB-C port, it connects directly to laptops or tablets without requiring an external mixer or audio interface. Weighing...Read more

T
techradar.com
23/08/2024
Audio-Technica AT2040USB microphone review - TechRadar

The Audio-Technica AT2040USB is a budget-friendly, studio-quality dynamic microphone priced at $149.99 / £129.99 that connects directly via USB-C, eliminating the need for an external audio interface. It is heavily tailored for vocal applications like streaming, podcasting, and voiceover work, boasting a tank-like metal construction and an elegant, non-gamer aesthetic. Key features...Read more

T
trustedreviews.com
07/01/2026
Audio Technica AT2040USB Review

The Audio Technica AT2040USB is a highly focused dynamic microphone ideal for streaming and podcasting, offering excellent background noise rejection, a rich, full-bodied sound, and a professional design with useful on-board controls. Its hypercardioid pickup pattern effectively eliminates environmental noise like keyboard clicks, delivering a polished vocal sound out of the box....Read more

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podcastage.com
11/07/2025
Audio Technica AT2040USB Review / Test - Podcastage Would you like to see a comparison of how this USB model's sound quality specifically differs from...

The Audio Technica AT2040USB is a plug-and-play USB dynamic microphone designed for simple, user-friendly operation. It features useful physical controls, including a high-quality mute button, a headphone volume control, and a mix dial for zero-latency monitoring combined with computer playback. Built on a hypercardioid polar pattern, the microphone records at 24-bit/48kHz...Read more

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howtogeek.com
26/08/2023
Audio-Technica AT2040USB Dynamic Mic Review Would you like to see a comparison of how the AT2040USB stacks up against other USB dynamic mics like the...

The How-To Geek review highlights the Audio-Technica AT2040USB as a reliable, heavy-duty dynamic microphone tailored for podcasters and streamers seeking broadcast-quality audio without a complex setup. Built with a sturdy all-metal body weighing 615 grams, it stands out for its exceptional hypercardioid noise isolation, which effectively blocks out environmental distractions like...Read more

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svg.com
16/09/2023
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XPGo to product viewer dialog for this item. And AT2040USB Mic Review

The Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP and AT2040USB are high-quality, plug-and-play USB microphones designed for content creators, streamers, and podcasters. Both models eliminate the need for an expensive external audio interface by featuring robust onboard digital converters that connect directly via USB. The AT2020USB-XP is a condenser mic featuring a high-quality 24-bit/192 kHz...Read more

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9to5toys.com
17/05/2023
Review: Audio-Technica launches new metal AT2040USB mic today

The Audio-Technica AT2040USB is a robust, dynamic USB-C microphone that brings broadcast-quality performance into a plug-and-play setup for $149. It features an exceptionally solid, heavy all-metal build that rivals mics multiple times its price, complete with an integrated shock mount and internal pop filter to control vibrations and harsh plosives. Operating at up to 24-bit/96...Read more

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mixdownmag.com.au
20/05/2023
Review: Audio-Technica AT2040USB Microphone

The Audio-Technica AT2040USB is a robust, user-friendly USB studio microphone built out of powder-coated metal, specifically designed for content creators and podcasters who need an efficient, mobile recording solution. Its standout features include USB-C connectivity, high-quality 24-bit/96 kHz analogue-to-digital audio conversion, and an integrated low-cut filter toggle to...Read more

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faz.net
03/02/2026
The best USB microphone (derstandard.at) | 12.09.2023 | AT2040USB review: The microphone for powerful podcasts

The Audio-Technica AT2040USB is named the top choice for most users because it delivers excellent, broadcast-ready recording quality right out of the box without requiring complex setups or additional software. Utilizing a dynamic capsule with a tight hypercardioid polar pattern, this microphone excels at producing a warm, full voice tone with pronounced bass response while actively...Read more

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sitegeek.fr
12/09/2025
Audio-Technica AT2040USB Microphone Review", "Audio-Technica unveils the AT2040USB, a USB-C version of its podcasting microphone", "REVIEW: Audio-Tech...

This review evaluates the Audio-Technica AT2040USB, a plug-and-play dynamic hypercardioidal microphone designed for content creators, streamers, and podcasters, priced at 149 euros. The setup is highly intuitive, requiring no extra software for both PC and Mac, which makes it ideal for quick installations. Built with a robust metal body, the microphone includes essential accessories...Read more

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interface.nl
14/11/2024
Audio-Technica AT2040USB vs AT2020USB-XP

Audio-Technica AT2040USB and AT2020USB-XP The Interface.nl review highlights Audio-Technica’s targeted push into the creator market by converting two of its popular existing models into versatile plug-and-play USB editions. The AT2040USB (priced at €149) is a dynamic microphone featuring a tighter, highly directional hypercardioid polar pattern. Its primary pros include rich,...Read more

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computertaal.info
09/10/2025
Review: Audio-Technica AT2040USB microphone - Computertaal

The Audio-Technica AT2040USB is a robust, studio-inspired dynamic microphone priced at €149.95, designed specifically for spoken-word applications like podcasting, streaming, and Discord chatting. It features a hypercardioid polar pattern that excels at isolating the user's voice while minimizing background noises, such as mechanical keyboard clicks or traffic. Key hardware...Read more

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