We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Xlr Cables 2026 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Cable Matters 2-Pack Premium XLR to XLR Cables - 25ft, Male to Female Microphone Cable, Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) Mic Cord, Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,260
Cable Length
Cable Shielding
Connector Quality

Most important from
16184 reviews

Cable Length
Cable length options like 6ft, 10ft, and 25ft provide practical flexibility for various studio or live environments without excess slack.
Cable Shielding
There is minimal interference when electronic devices are kept at a reasonable distance, maintaining clean audio.
Connector Quality
The secure locking connectors prevent any loose or wobbly connections, ensuring stable performance.
Cable Gauge
The cables have a robust, thick coating that suggests long-term durability even with frequent use.
Durability
These cables deliver a premium feel and solid build quality that far surpasses cheap alternatives.

The Cable Matters 2-Pack Premium XLR cables offer solid performance for anyone needing reliable microphone or audio connections, especially in studio or live settings. Each cable is 25 feet long, which is a practical length for most setups, giving you flexibility without excessive slack. The cables use oxygen-free copper conductors, which help deliver clear, high-quality sound by reducing signal loss. They also feature braided copper shielding that effectively cancels out noise and interference, ensuring your audio stays clean.

The connectors are metal and include molded strain relief, contributing to their durability and reducing the risk of damage from frequent plugging and unplugging. This makes them a good choice if you want cables that can withstand regular use over time. The two-pack bundle adds nice value, letting you have backups or set up multiple devices without extra purchases.

On the downside, the cables are fairly standard in design and may not have advanced features some professionals look for, like ultra-flexible jackets or locking connectors with extra security. Also, if you need shorter or longer cables, these fixed 25-foot lengths might not fit all scenarios perfectly. These cables suit musicians, podcasters, and audio technicians who want dependable, well-made XLR cables that deliver clean sound and durability without breaking the bank.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,260
Cable Length
Cable Shielding
Connector Quality

Most important from
16184 reviews

Cable Length
Cable length options like 6ft, 10ft, and 25ft provide practical flexibility for various studio or live environments without excess slack.
Cable Shielding
There is minimal interference when electronic devices are kept at a reasonable distance, maintaining clean audio.
Connector Quality
The secure locking connectors prevent any loose or wobbly connections, ensuring stable performance.
Cable Gauge
The cables have a robust, thick coating that suggests long-term durability even with frequent use.
Durability
These cables deliver a premium feel and solid build quality that far surpasses cheap alternatives.
#2

Amazon Basics 2-Pack XLR Microphone Cable for Speaker or PA System, All Copper Conductors, 6MM PVC Jacket, 25 Foot, Black

Rating
8.2
Cable Shielding
Connector Quality
Cable Gauge

Most important from
47987 reviews

Cable Shielding
Provides solid shielding that balances protection without making the cable bulky or difficult to handle.
Connector Quality
Offers a reliable connection perfect for microphones, mixers, speakers, or audio interfaces.
Cable Gauge
Delivers clear, professional-quality sound without interference thanks to all-copper conductors.
Durability
Durable and flexible design makes it easy to route cables around studios or stages while withstanding repeated use.

The Amazon Basics 2-Pack XLR Microphone Cables offer good value and solid performance for those needing reliable connections for microphones, speakers, or PA systems. Each cable is 25 feet long, a versatile length suitable for most home studios or live sound setups. The cables feature all-copper conductors with inner copper spiral shielding, which helps reduce interference and noise, ensuring clear audio transmission. The connectors are made from zinc alloy with nickel plating and come in a protective metal housing, which adds to their durability and helps resist wear over time. The cable jacket is a flexible 6.0mm PVC material, providing decent protection while remaining flexible enough for easy handling and setup. While the cable gauge is not explicitly stated, the 6mm jacket thickness suggests a balance between robustness and flexibility, suitable for indoor use as recommended.

These cables are best suited for studio recording and live sound environments where reliable, moderate-length cables are needed. One limitation is that they are designed specifically for indoor use, so they might not hold up well in outdoor or harsh conditions. Also, while the build quality is solid for the price, professional users requiring ultra-rugged cables might look for heavier-duty options. For most casual to semi-professional users, these cables offer a dependable, budget-friendly solution with good shielding and connector quality.

Rating
8.2
Cable Shielding
Connector Quality
Cable Gauge

Most important from
47987 reviews

Cable Shielding
Provides solid shielding that balances protection without making the cable bulky or difficult to handle.
Connector Quality
Offers a reliable connection perfect for microphones, mixers, speakers, or audio interfaces.
Cable Gauge
Delivers clear, professional-quality sound without interference thanks to all-copper conductors.
Durability
Durable and flexible design makes it easy to route cables around studios or stages while withstanding repeated use.
#3

Cable Matters 2-Pack Premium Short XLR to XLR Cables - 3ft, Male to Female Microphone Cable, Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) Mic Cord, Black

Rating
7.9
Cable Shielding
Connector Quality
Durability

Most important from
16184 reviews

Cable Shielding
The cables are very thickly insulated with copper braid shielding, offering excellent protection against interference.
Connector Quality
The connectors seem to be high-quality Neutrik XLR gold-plated connectors, repainted in semi-gloss black.
Durability
The build quality of these XLR cables is really good, with a thick coating suggesting long-term durability.

The Cable Matters 2-Pack Premium Short XLR to XLR Cables are a solid choice for anyone looking to connect microphones and audio equipment in both studio and live settings. With a length of three feet, these cables are particularly convenient for shorter runs, making them suitable for smaller setups or when space is limited. One of the standout features is the oxygen-free copper (OFC) construction, which enhances sound clarity and helps ensure that audio signals remain interference-free, an essential aspect for professional audio quality. The copper braided shielding also provides excellent noise cancellation, which is a significant advantage in noisy environments.

Another positive aspect is the durability of these cables. The heavy-duty metal connectors, combined with molded strain relief, contribute to their long-lasting performance, making them a reliable choice for frequent use. Being sold in a 2-pack is an added bonus, giving users a spare or the flexibility to connect multiple devices simultaneously.

The three-foot length is great for compact setups, although it might be limiting for users needing more distance between their audio devices. While these cables are versatile and compatible with a range of professional audio equipment, they may not be suitable for specific scenarios that require longer or more specialized cables. The Cable Matters XLR to XLR cables are an excellent option for musicians, audio engineers, and anyone needing reliable, high-quality connections. Just keep in mind the cable length and your specific setup requirements to ensure they meet your needs.

Rating
7.9
Cable Shielding
Connector Quality
Durability

Most important from
16184 reviews

Cable Shielding
The cables are very thickly insulated with copper braid shielding, offering excellent protection against interference.
Connector Quality
The connectors seem to be high-quality Neutrik XLR gold-plated connectors, repainted in semi-gloss black.
Durability
The build quality of these XLR cables is really good, with a thick coating suggesting long-term durability.

Buying Guide for the Best Xlr Cables

When it comes to picking the right XLR cable, it's important to understand that these cables are essential for professional audio equipment, such as microphones, mixers, and other recording devices. The right XLR cable can ensure high-quality sound transmission and durability. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing an XLR cable, along with explanations to help you make the best choice for your needs.
Cable LengthCable length refers to how long the XLR cable is from end to end. This is important because it determines how far apart your equipment can be placed. Shorter cables (1-10 feet) are ideal for setups where the equipment is close together, such as in a home studio. Medium-length cables (10-25 feet) are suitable for small to medium-sized venues. Longer cables (25 feet and above) are necessary for larger venues or situations where the equipment needs to be placed far apart. Choose a length that provides enough slack to avoid tension but not so long that it creates unnecessary clutter.
Cable ShieldingCable shielding refers to the protective layer around the internal wires of the XLR cable. This is important because it helps prevent interference from external sources, such as radio frequencies and electromagnetic interference, which can affect sound quality. There are different types of shielding, including braided, foil, and spiral. Braided shielding offers the best protection and durability, making it ideal for professional use. Foil shielding is lighter and more flexible but less durable. Spiral shielding is a good middle ground. Choose the type of shielding based on the level of interference in your environment and the durability you need.
Connector QualityConnector quality refers to the build and material of the XLR connectors at each end of the cable. This is important because high-quality connectors ensure a secure and stable connection, which is crucial for maintaining sound quality. Look for connectors made from durable materials like metal, with gold-plated contacts for better conductivity and corrosion resistance. High-quality connectors are essential for professional settings where reliability is critical. For casual or home use, standard connectors may suffice, but investing in better quality can still improve longevity and performance.
Cable GaugeCable gauge refers to the thickness of the internal wires within the XLR cable. This is important because thicker wires (lower gauge numbers) can carry signals more efficiently and are generally more durable. Common gauges for XLR cables range from 20 to 24 AWG (American Wire Gauge). A lower gauge number (e.g., 20 AWG) indicates a thicker wire, which is better for longer cable runs and professional use. Higher gauge numbers (e.g., 24 AWG) are thinner and more flexible, suitable for shorter runs and less demanding applications. Choose the gauge based on the length of the cable and the quality of signal transmission you require.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the XLR cable can withstand wear and tear over time. This is important because a durable cable will last longer and perform more reliably. Factors that contribute to durability include the quality of the outer jacket, the strength of the connectors, and the overall build quality. Look for cables with robust outer jackets made from materials like PVC or rubber, which can resist cuts and abrasions. Reinforced connectors with strain relief features can also enhance durability. Choose a cable that matches the level of use it will experience; for example, a cable used in a professional touring setup needs to be more durable than one used in a home studio.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now