Handheld Microphone: A Complete Buyer's Guide

Choosing a handheld microphone depends primarily on what you will use it for: live vocal performance, public speaking, broadcasting or karaoke each favour different specifications. This guide covers the main options by use case and budget, from the reliable SM58 upwards.

For Live Vocal Performance: The SM58 and Alternatives

The Shure SM58 is the most widely sold live vocal microphone in the world and has been for decades. It is a cardioid dynamic with a tailored frequency response that sits well in a live PA mix, rejects feedback reliably and handles rough treatment without complaint. If you need one microphone for live singing and have no further requirements, this is the default purchase. The Sennheiser e835 is a direct competitor at a similar price with a slightly brighter high-frequency character — some singers prefer it, particularly on higher voices. The AKG D5 has a supercardioid polar pattern for tighter feedback rejection in loud stage environments.

For Higher Vocal Detail: The e945 and SM86

When the SM58 is not providing enough detail — for close-miked studio-quality live sound, theatre vocal work or any context where sonic accuracy matters more than ruggedness — the Sennheiser e945 is the step up most engineers reach for first. It is a supercardioid dynamic with a tighter, more extended response than the e835 and handles gain-before-feedback well. The Shure SM86 is a condenser cardioid for live vocal use, offering condenser sensitivity in a handheld microphone format; it requires phantom power and is more suited to controlled environments than rough touring use.

For Wireless: Shure BLX and Sennheiser ew100

Entry-level professional wireless systems include the Shure BLX2 (transmitter and SM58 capsule) and the Sennheiser ew100-835-S. Both operate in UHF and deliver reliable wireless performance at accessible prices. For more demanding use — touring, multi-system installations, broadcast — the Shure SLXD and Sennheiser ew-D Series move to digital audio transmission and automatic frequency management. UK users should confirm that their wireless system operates on a licensed frequency and hold the appropriate Ofcom licence for professional use.

Budget Models

Below the SM58 price range, build quality and reliability degrade quickly. The AKG P5i and the Audio-Technica AT2010 are worth considering; both perform acceptably in low-SPL environments. Generic budget microphones are acceptable for karaoke and casual home use but are not reliable in live PA contexts where feedback control and consistent output matter.

What to Check Before Buying

For any handheld microphone, confirm the polar pattern matches your application, check the connector type (XLR for wired, specific transmitter format for wireless), and consider the build quality if the instrument will tour or be handled by multiple people. A well-built second-hand SM58 is a better investment than a new budget equivalent.

The Bottom Line

For most live vocal applications, the SM58 or e835 are the right choices. For a full explanation of the format and how the different types compare, see our handheld microphone overview.

Frequently Asked Questions