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Shure SM4 Review | 76 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£220
  • Avg. price in US: ~$219
  • Connection type: XLR
  • Transducer type: condenser
  • Max SPL: 140 dB SPL
  • Supported sample rates: N/A kHz
  • Output connector type: XLR

Shure SM4 review. Compare 76 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among microphones and if it is worth buying.

6.1

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%

5.2

Technical Score

25.0%

8.7

User score

Good
5.2

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%

8.7

Audio Performance

20.0%

4.0

Recording

16.0%

3.2

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

3.9

Controls & Features

10.0%

4.0

Power

7.0%

7.2

Compatibility

5.0%

5.2

Connectivity

3.0%

8.1

Design

3.0%

6.1

Accessories

Good
8.7

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%

9.4

User reviews

30.0%

7.1

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
(274)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
(215)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(65)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Excellent
  • 3.4
    Gaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    4.0

    Zero-latency monitoring

    25.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    4.0

    Mute function

    20.0%

    1.0

    Volume control levels

    10.0%

    4.0

    RGB lighting

  • 6.9
    Podcasting

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

    20.0%

    4.0

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    ?

    Audio interface bit depth

    15.0%

    ?

    Audio interface sample rate

  • 10
    Vocal recording

    Score components:

    40.0%

    10

    Max SPL

    20.0%

    10

    Highest frequency

    20.0%

    10

    Lowest frequency

    20.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

  • 3.6
    Streaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    4.0

    Loopback support

    25.0%

    4.0

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    15.0%

    4.0

    Mute function

    15.0%

    1.0

    Volume control levels

  • 6.5
    Camera use

    Score components:

    30.0%

    8.6

    Weight

    25.0%

    4.0

    Windscreen included

    25.0%

    4.0

    Shock mount included

    10.0%

    10

    Height

    10.0%

    9.6

    Width

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

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

Verdict

The Shure SM4 is a side-address cardioid condenser microphone featuring a 1-inch brass dual-diaphragm capsule and a 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz frequency response. Designed for home recording, it boasts a high 140 dB max SPL and patent-pending interference shielding technology to block RF noise from devices like smartphones and Wi-Fi routers. Its main pros include an integrated dual-stage pop filter for excellent plosive control, a 'mix-ready' sound signature that minimizes post-production, and a reduced proximity effect for a larger tonal sweet spot. However, some users note its relatively high self-noise of 17 dBA compared to competitors and a bright treble boost that can lead to sharp sibilance on certain voices.

Technical Specifications of Shure SM4

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%

8.7

Audio Performance

20.0%

4.0

Recording

16.0%

3.2

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

3.9

Controls & Features

10.0%

4.0

Power

7.0%

7.2

Compatibility

5.0%

5.2

Connectivity

3.0%

8.1

Design

3.0%

6.1

Accessories

5.2
Shure SM4 has a technical score of 5.24 points, which is lower than 99.5% 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%

9.4

User reviews

30.0%

7.1

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
(274)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
(215)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(65)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

8.7
Shure SM4 has a user score of 8.72 points, which is higher than 65.8% of microphones.
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.
7.1
Shure SM4 has a popularity of 7.1 points, which is higher than 58.8% 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%

6.1

Overall score

40.0%

9.4

Price

7.1
Shure SM4 has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.1 points, which is lower than 91% 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

condenser
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

25.4 (or 1 in) inch / mm
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

dual
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

-38 dBV/Pa
Show more
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

XLR
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

XLR
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

no
Shure SM4 does not include a headphone output. 63.5% 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

no
Shure SM4 does not include a 3.5 mm jack. 63.3% 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
Shure SM4 does not include a 6.35 mm jack. 2% of microphones include this connector.
Show more
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

N/A
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

N/A
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

N/A
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

N/A
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

N/A
Show more
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 Shure SM4 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

yes
Shure SM4 supports a cardioid pickup pattern. 91% 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
Shure SM4 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

no
Shure SM4 does not support a hypercardioid pickup pattern. 1.5% 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
Shure SM4 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

no
Shure SM4 does not include a mute function. 68.3% 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

no
Shure SM4 does not include onboard gain control. 51.5% 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

0
Shure SM4 offers volume output of 0 which is lower than that of 65.1% of microphones and equal to that of 34.9% 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
Shure SM4 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
Shure SM4 offers 0 DSP presets, which is equal to 83.4% of microphones.
Show more
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

yes
Shure SM4 does not require phantom power. 9.1% of microphones also operate without 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

48 V
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

no
Shure SM4 does not support USB bus power. 86.4% 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

80 mm
Shure SM4 is 80 mm tall, which is shorter than 99% 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
Shure SM4 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

?
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

463 g
Shure SM4 weighs 463 g, which is lighter than 68% 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

zinc alloy
Show more
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

stand; shock mount; pop filter; cable; mount adapter; carrying case
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

no
Shure SM4 does not include a shock mount. 50% of microphones include this accessory.
Shock mount included only in kit versions.
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
Shure SM4 includes a pop filter. 60.9% of microphones include this accessory.
Internal pop filter; kit versions add magnetic filter.
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

no
Shure SM4 does not include a windscreen. 31.8% of microphones include this accessory.
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

N/A
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

no
Shure SM4 is not compatible with Android. 66.3% 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

no
Shure SM4 is not compatible with iOS. 61.8% of microphones are compatible with iOS.
Requires external audio interface.
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
Shure SM4 is compatible with Windows. 100% of microphones are compatible with Windows.
Requires audio interface.
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
Shure SM4 is compatible with macOS. 99.5% of microphones are compatible with macOS.
Requires audio interface.
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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Shure SM4 vs the average microphone

  • 18 dB SPL higher limit
    Shure SM4 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (140 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
    What it is: The highest sound pressure level the microphone can handle before severe distortion occurs.
    When it matters: When the microphone has to survive loud vocals, drums, brass, or close guitar cabinets.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Shure SM4 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (140 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.140 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL
  • 28.5 dB wider dynamic range
    Shure SM4 has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (125 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
    What it is: The usable level range between the microphone noise floor and its clipping limit.
    When it matters: When the recording has to keep both quiet detail and loud peaks without falling apart.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Shure SM4 has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (125 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.125 dB vs 96.5 dB
  • Supports balanced output
    Shure SM4 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a balanced audio output connection for cleaner signal transfer.
    When it matters: When you need a cleaner signal path over longer cable runs to an interface or mixer.

    Importance: LOW

    Shure SM4 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
  • 4 newer release date
    Shure SM4 is newer than the average microphone (2,024 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
    August 2024.
    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

    Shure SM4 is newer than the average microphone (2,024 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.2024 vs 2020
  • 105 mm shorter body
    Shure SM4 is shorter than the average microphone (80 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

    Shure SM4 is shorter than the average microphone (80 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.80 mm vs 185 mm
  • 1 dB higher signal-to-noise ratio
    Shure SM4 has a higher signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (79 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.
    What it is: The ratio between the useful audio signal and background noise produced by the microphone path.
    When it matters: When you record in untreated rooms and want the voice to stay cleaner than the background noise.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Shure SM4 has a higher signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (79 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.79 dB vs 78 dB
  • 19.2% lighter
    Shure SM4 is lighter than the average microphone (463 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.
    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

    Shure SM4 is lighter than the average microphone (463 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.463 g vs 573 g
  • 9% higher user score
    Shure SM4 has a higher user score than the average microphone (8.72 vs 8.000).
    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.
    Shure SM4 has a higher user score than the average microphone (8.72 vs 8.000).8.72 vs 8
  • 18 dB SPL higher limit
    Shure SM4 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (140 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
  • 28.5 dB wider dynamic range
    Shure SM4 has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (125 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
  • 1 dB higher signal-to-noise ratio
    Shure SM4 has a higher signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (79 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.
  • Supports balanced output
    Shure SM4 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
  • 4 newer release date
    Shure SM4 is newer than the average microphone (2,024 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
  • 105 mm shorter body
    Shure SM4 is shorter than the average microphone (80 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.
  • 19.2% lighter
    Shure SM4 is lighter than the average microphone (463 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.

Total
Overall
Audio Performance
Connectivity
Design
  • No headphone output
    Shure SM4 does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
  • No 3.5 mm jack
    Shure SM4 does not include a 3.5 mm jack, the average microphone does.
  • No zero-latency monitoring
    Shure SM4 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
  • No gain control
    Shure SM4 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
  • No on-device controls
    Shure SM4 does not place key controls on the device, the average microphone does. 79.5% of microphones place key controls on the device.
  • No mute function
    Shure SM4 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
  • No USB bus power
    Shure SM4 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
  • Requires phantom power
    Shure SM4 requires phantom power, while the average microphone does not.
  • Not compatible with Android
    Shure SM4 is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
  • Not compatible with iOS
    Shure SM4 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
    Requires external audio interface.
  • No zero-latency monitoring
    Shure SM4 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone supports direct zero latency monitoring of its own signal.
    When it matters: When you want to hear yourself in real time without the delay that makes speaking awkward.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Shure SM4 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
  • No gain control
    Shure SM4 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
    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

    Shure SM4 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
  • No on-device controls
    Shure SM4 does not place key controls on the device, the average microphone does. 79.5% of microphones place key controls on the device.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has its control panel or main buttons placed on the device body.
    When it matters: When you prefer the main controls to be reachable directly on the microphone body during use.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Shure SM4 does not place key controls on the device, the average microphone does. 79.5% of microphones place key controls on the device.
  • No mute function
    Shure SM4 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
    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

    Shure SM4 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
  • No USB bus power
    Shure SM4 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
    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

    Shure SM4 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
  • Requires phantom power
    Shure SM4 requires phantom power, while the average microphone does not.
    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

    Shure SM4 requires phantom power, while the average microphone does not.
  • Not compatible with iOS
    Shure SM4 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
    Requires external audio interface.
    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

    Shure SM4 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
  • Not compatible with Android
    Shure SM4 is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
    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

    Shure SM4 is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
Total
Overall
Connectivity
Recording
Controls & Features
Power
Compatibility

Graphic comparison of Shure SM4 and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
274 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
215 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
65 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Shure SM4?

  • High-quality, detailed audio capture for both vocals and instruments straight out of the box
  • Excellent RF interference shielding blocks noise from cell phones, Wi-Fi routers, and laptops
  • Premium, all-metal build quality with a sleek, low-profile design suitable for on-camera use
  • Effective dual-stage plosive protection with an integrated internal filter and a detachable magnetic pop filter in the Studio Kit
  • Large tonal 'sweet spot' due to a modest proximity effect, making it forgiving for moving performers
  • High SPL handling (up to 140 dB) allows it to record loud sources like guitar amps and drums without distortion

What customers dislike about Shure SM4?

  • Relatively high self-noise (17-18 dBA) compared to competitors in the same price range
  • Bright sound profile with high-frequency peaks can lead to sharp sibilance on some voices
  • Lacks physical controls such as pads or high-pass filter switches on the microphone body
  • XLR-only connectivity requires an external audio interface with 48V phantom power
  • Essential accessories like the shock mount and magnetic pop filter are only included in the more expensive 'Home Recording Kit'

Expert reviews

F
forbes.com
20/08/2024
Shure’s SM4 Is A Great All-Round Condenser Mic For Home Studios

The Shure SM4 is lauded as a versatile condenser microphone for home studios, featuring a dual-diaphragm design that ensures consistent tone and reduces proximity effect. It handles up to 140 dB SPL and features a cardioid pattern that effectively minimizes room noise in untreated spaces. However, the microphone is noted to be more expensive than competitors like Audio-Technica and...Read more

M
musicradar.com
09/09/2024
Shure SM4 review

The MusicRadar Shure SM4 review highlights this large-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone as a reliable, $199 option tailored specifically for home studio creators, podcasters, and singer-songwriters who need a fast path to polished audio. Architected with a discrete, sleek matte black finish optimized for video creators, the microphone stands out for its mix-ready sound profile...Read more

M
musictech.com
23/09/2024
Is Shure's SM4 a perfect microphone for the home studio?

Comprehensive Review Summary The Shure SM4 is a rugged, side-address cardioid condenser microphone designed as a highly versatile all-rounder for home studios, podcasting, and live streaming. It excels in technical performance by offering a high 140 dB SPL tolerance to handle loud guitar amps alongside the high sensitivity needed for whispered vocals. Key advantages include its...Read more

S
soundonsound.com
15/10/2024
Shure SM4 Review

The Shure SM4 is a highly competitive, externally polarized large-diaphragm capacitor microphone that features a compact, dual-sided 1-inch cardioid capsule built into a rugged cast zinc body. Shure prioritizes streamlined simplicity by omitting physical pad or filter switches, designing the mic to handle staggering maximum sound pressure levels up to 145dB SPL without distorting....Read more

G
guitarworld.com
22/11/2024
Shure SM4 Home Recording Microphone review - Guitar World

The Shure SM4 is a dual-diaphragm, 1-inch brass capsule condenser microphone designed as a highly versatile, budget-friendly choice for home studio setups. Priced around $197 to $199, it functions as an excellent multi-purpose alternative to traditional dynamic mics like the SM57 by delivering an impressive 140dB maximum SPL to handle loud guitar amps while maintaining a relatively...Read more

S
soundguys.com
14/01/2025
Shure SM4 review - SoundGuys

The Shure SM4 is a robust, entry-level large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed for home recording and content creation, featuring a 1-inch brass dual-diaphragm capsule and a cardioid pattern. Pros include excellent off-axis noise rejection for untreated rooms, a 140dB max SPL for loud sources, and internal RF shielding to prevent digital interference. However, the microphone...Read more

R
radioworld.com
27/01/2025
Dan Tries Out the Shure SM4 Condenser Mic

The Shure SM4 is evaluated as a highly capable, robustly built side-address cardioid condenser microphone tailored for home studios, vocal work, and acoustic instrumentation. Built from a solid die-cast zinc housing, the microphone operates via an XLR connection requiring phantom power, with technical specifications boasting a frequency response of 20 to 20,000 Hz, 150 ohms...Read more

P
podcastage.com
17/09/2025
Shure SM4 Review / Test - Podcastage

The Shure SM4 is a straightforward cardioid condenser microphone positioned in the $200 price range, featuring a build quality that feels exceptionally robust and premium. In terms of sound profile, it delivers a brighter tonal character characterized by a neutral midsection, tight control over the bass frequencies, and a highly dominant boost concentrated in the treble and air...Read more

P
podcastvideos.com
30/09/2025
Shure SM4 Microphone: A Detailed Look and Comparison

The Shure SM4 is a cardioid condenser microphone targeting the $200–$270 market, featuring an all-metal body and grill that delivers premium build quality without any complex switches. It provides a distinct, lively sound signature highlighted by controlled low frequencies, neutral mid-ranges, and a pronounced boost in the treble and air frequencies. On the positive side, this airy...Read more

T
trustedreviews.com
13/09/2024
Shure SM4 Review

The Shure SM4 is a highly competent, side-address XLR condenser microphone designed for home studios, praised for its plug-and-play simplicity, durable metal construction, and rich, clean audio pickup. It offers excellent off-axis noise rejection, making it ideal for recording in less-than-ideal acoustic environments, according to Trusted Reviews. However, the review notes the SM4...Read more

B
bonedo.de
16/09/2024
Shure SM4 Review - Bonedo", "Shure SM4 Test - Bonedo

Shure SM4 Review Overview The Shure SM4 is a cardioid, large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed specifically for home recording, departing from Shure's legacy of famous dynamic microphones like the SM57 and SM58. Manufactured in China to achieve a more budget-friendly price point, the microphone features a simple, rugged barrel-shaped metal body housing a true center-terminated...Read more

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P
pixelcatcher.de
07. Oktober 2024
Shure SM4 Microphone Review | April 2026 - Michael Damböck

The Shure SM4 is a robust, all-metal XLR condenser microphone tailored for home recording, podcasting, and voice applications. In testing, it delivers a highly neutral and clear audio profile that provides an excellent foundation for post-processing. Its cardioid polar pattern effectively minimizes background noise, making it highly reliable even in rooms without optimized...Read more

(Translated)Show original
F
fr.audiofanzine.com
01/10/2024
Shure SM4 Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone Review

The Shure SM4 is an affordable, large-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone tailored for home and professional studios, as well as streamers. Despite its budget-friendly entry-level pricing, Shure provides a high-quality, durable build weighing a solid 460 grams. The comprehensive "Studio Kit" bundle comes well-equipped with a robust zipped carrying case, a shock mount,...Read more

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P
podcastvideos.com
30/09/2025
Shure SM4 Review: Bright Sound and Solid Build

The Shure SM4 is an all-metal, plug-and-record cardioid condenser microphone tailored for the $200–$270 market. It comes bundled with high-quality accessories, including a sturdy storage case, shock mount, stand adapter, and a front-mounting magnetic pop filter. Sonically, the microphone delivers a vibrant, neutral midrange alongside highly detailed highs and controlled low...Read more

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