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RØDE NT-USB+ vs Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X

Both are cardioid USB-C condensers with zero-latency headphone monitoring and a mic/computer mix control, so the choice comes down to sound and extras. The RØDE NT-USB+ adds internal APHEX DSP (Aural Exciter, Big Bottom, compressor, noise gate) and ships with a pop filter and desk stand. The AT2020USB-X records up to 24-bit/96 kHz and has a touch-sensitive mute, but no onboard DSP. On price, the AT2020USB-X was $166.99 at its lowest on November 3, 2026; check the current NT-USB+ price across stores before deciding.

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RØDE
RØDE NT-USB+

RØDE NT-USB+

4(1 rating)
See all prices and details

Choose the RØDE NT-USB+ if you want broadcast-style processing built into the mic and a pop filter and stand in the box.

Pros
  • APHEX DSP gives broadcast-ready sound without a DAW
  • Pop filter and stand included, so it works out of the box
  • Zero-latency monitoring with adjustable monitor mix
  • Works plug-and-play on Mac, Windows, iOS and Android
  • RØDE software suite adds recording and routing options
Cons
  • No onboard mute button; mute goes through software
  • Plastic tripod stand feels less sturdy than metal
  • DSP effects are baked in unless you record dry
Audio-Technica
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X

Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X

See all prices and details

Choose the Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X if you want the AT2020 capsule's natural sound, 24-bit/96 kHz capture and a one-touch mute.

Pros
  • AT2020 capsule sound is clear and natural for voice and instruments
  • Records up to 24-bit/96 kHz
  • Touch-sensitive mute is handy mid-stream
  • Headphone volume and mix control on the mic
  • Includes USB-C to USB-A cable and adapters for older ports
Cons
  • No onboard DSP or EQ
  • No pop filter included
  • Cable is shorter at 6.6 ft (2 m)

What separates them

RØDE NT-USB+Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X
Onboard DSPAPHEX Aural Exciter, Big Bottom, compressor and noise gateNone; clean signal only
Max recording resolutionUSB-C class-compliant; resolution set by host softwareUp to 24-bit/96 kHz via high-resolution A/D converter
Included accessoriesPop filter, desktop stand, 9.8 ft (3 m) cableDesk stand, 6.6 ft (2 m) USB-C to USB-A cable, USB-A to USB-C adapter, thread adapter
Mute controlVia RØDE softwareTouch-sensitive mute button on the mic
MonitoringZero-latency 3.5 mm headphone output with monitor mixHeadphone jack with volume control and mic/computer mix
Frequency response20 Hz - 20 kHzSmooth, extended response tuned for voice and instruments
Max SPL118 dBNot published in the given specs
SoftwareRØDE Connect, Central, Reporter, X UnifyPlug-and-play; no companion suite listed

Price history

$169.00$143.99
Oct 31Nov 3
  • RØDE NT-USB+: lowest $143.99 on Oct 31 at Techinn.com.
  • Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X: lowest $166.99 on Nov 3 at Amazon.

Prices at every store

RØDE NT-USB+

  • AdoramaCheck price at Adorama
  • AmazonCheck price at Amazon
  • Best BuyCheck price at Best Buy
Prices and history →

Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X

  • WalmartCheck price at Walmart
  • AdoramaCheck price at Adorama
  • AmazonCheck price at Amazon
Prices and history →

Specs compared

SpecRØDE NT-USB+Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X
Connector TypeUSB-CUSB, Mini-jack
DirectionalityCardioidUnidirectional
TypeStudio microphone, USB microphoneCondenser
UseStudio recordingComputer
Cable Length9.8-foot (3m)6.6′ long
InterfacesUSB-C—
Wireless TechnologyUSB—
Included AccessoriesPop filter, Desktop stand—
Power SourceUSB power—
FormatCondenser—
SubtypeUSB, Condenser—
Diaphragm SizeLarge-diaphragm—
Show all 26 specsShow fewer specs
SpecRØDE NT-USB+Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X
Signal TypeDigital—
Impedance112 Kiloohms—
Form FactorCondenser—
StyleCompact—
MaterialPlastic (tripod desktop stand), Metal (mesh pop…—
Depth50 mm—
Height184 mm—
Weight540 g—
Width62 mm—
Max SPL118 dB—

What reviewers say

RØDE NT-USB+

Owners generally rate the NT-USB+ highly as a plug-and-play upgrade over built-in mics and the original NT-USB, praising its clean sound and easy setup. Common complaints are the limited cardioid-only pickup and the reliance on RØDE software for the DSP features.

What people mention
  • Sound qualityPraisedOwners say the capsule and preamp deliver clean, detailed voice and instrument recordings with little background hiss.
  • SetupPraisedReviewers like that it works over USB-C on Mac, Windows, iOS and Android without drivers or an interface.
  • MonitoringPraisedThe 3.5mm headphone jack with adjustable mix is called out as useful for zero-latency takes.
  • Polar patternCriticisedSome owners wish it offered more than cardioid for recording multiple sources or room ambience.

Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X

Owners of the AT2020USB-X and its AT2020USB+ predecessor generally rate the sound highly for voice and streaming, and like the simple USB-C setup. Complaints center on the lack of a gain control and on the light desk stand transmitting vibration.

What people mention
  • Sound qualityPraisedOwners say voices sound clear and natural, close to the wired AT2020.
  • SetupPraisedPlugging in over USB-C and recording works without an interface or drivers.
  • MonitoringPraisedThe headphone jack and mix dial make live monitoring easy.
  • Gain controlCriticisedThere is no gain knob on the mic, so levels must be set in software.

Questions and answers

Which is better for podcasting?
The NT-USB+ is easier for podcasting because its compressor and noise gate clean up the signal before it reaches your software. The AT2020USB-X sounds natural but needs processing in your recording app.
Which is better for recording music?
The AT2020USB-X records up to 24-bit/96 kHz and has the AT2020 capsule's neutral sound, which suits instruments and vocals. The NT-USB+ works too, but its DSP colors the sound unless you turn it off.
Does either have a mute button?
The AT2020USB-X has a touch-sensitive mute on the mic. The NT-USB+ mutes through RØDE software instead.
Which has better monitoring?
Both offer zero-latency headphone monitoring with a mix control between mic and computer audio. The AT2020USB-X puts volume control on the mic body; the NT-USB+ relies on its controls and software.
Is the AT2020USB-X worth the extra over the NT-USB+?
The AT2020USB-X was $166.99 at its lowest on November 3, 2026. Whether it is worth more depends on the current NT-USB+ price; you pay for the 96 kHz capture and mute button, not for DSP.
Do both work with phones and tablets?
The NT-USB+ is class-compliant on iOS and Android over USB-C. The AT2020USB-X is USB-C with a USB-A adapter included; check your device's port and adapter needs.

More comparisons

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Frequency Response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
—
Dynamic Range97 dB (@10% THD)—
Color—Red
Connectivity—Wireless