Between the Wave:3 and SM7dB, the Wave:3 comes out ahead in type and connection, while the SM7dB wins on max spl. Overall, the Wave:3 scores 35 and the SM7dB scores 82 on our Mars Score.
Which should you buy?
The SM7dB is the clear pick on raw spec strength, leading by 47.0 points on the Mars Score. The margin is wide enough that the underdog only makes sense if its individual strengths line up with what you specifically need.
Pick the Wave:3 if you care most about type and connection. The biggest gaps in its favor are type, connection.
Pick the SM7dB if you care most about max spl. Its strongest claims are max spl.
Both ship with comparable polar pattern, so those specs don't separate the two — focus on the differences below.
Bottom line: the SM7dB is the safer default. The other model is the right choice only when its specific advantages line up with your priorities.
Why Elgato - Wave:3 wins
- ▲Type: Condenser (vs Dynamic).
- ▲Connection: USB (vs XLR).
Why Shure - SM7dB wins
- ▲Max SPL — 25.00% more. 150 dB vs 120 dB.
Spec comparison
Spec
| Spec | Elgato - Wave:3 | Shure - SM7dB |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Condenserlead | Dynamic |
| Polar pattern | Cardioid | Cardioid |
| Frequency response | 70Hz–20kHz | 50Hz–20kHz |
| Max SPL | 120 dB | 150 dBlead |
Connectivity
| Spec | Elgato - Wave:3 | Shure - SM7dB |
|---|---|---|
| Connection | USBlead | XLR |
| Headphone out | truelead | false |
Frequently asked
Spec-level deep dives
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