Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) vs Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)
Side-by-side comparison of two audio interfaces options. Tap either name to open the full product page.
✦ Editor's verdict
The Scarlett Solo is the right choice for solo creators who record one source at a time. The Scarlett 2i2 is worth the $50 premium if you ever need to record two sources simultaneously, have a low-output microphone like the Shure SM7B, or want the reassurance of more preamp headroom.
Our Pick
Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) edges out the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) with a lower price ($120 vs $170). It delivers better value for most buyers.
Quick verdict
- Cheaper: Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) at $120 (saves $50)
- Same star rating on both.
- More market validation: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) · 34,200 reviews
Feature-by-feature comparison
| Feature | Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) | Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $170 | $120 |
| Rating | 4.7 | 4.7 |
| Reviews | 34,200 | 28,900 |
| Value score | 12.5 | 17.5 |
| Recent purchases | 20K+ | 20K+ |
| Key specs | 2-in/2-out, 2 preamps, Air mode, USB-C | 2-in/2-out, Air mode, USB-C, 192kHz/24-bit |
| Ideal use | Standard home studio | Solo vocalist/guitarist |
Value score = (rating x log(reviews)) / price. Higher is better.
In depth
Both interfaces use Focusrite's 4th generation preamps with the same core audio quality. The practical differences are input count and maximum gain. The Solo has one XLR/Line combo input plus one Hi-Z instrument input — great for a vocalist with one microphone. The 2i2 has two XLR/Line combo inputs — necessary for recording two people, or vocals plus acoustic guitar simultaneously.
The SM7B question comes up constantly: the Scarlett Solo's 50 dB maximum gain can drive the SM7B, but only barely — at maximum gain, you may notice a slightly elevated noise floor. The Scarlett 2i2's 56 dB maximum gain gives you more comfortable headroom. If the SM7B is your microphone, the 2i2 is worth the extra $50.
Pick this if…
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen)
- ✓You want two XLR inputs for recording two people or two instruments simultaneously
- ✓You use a low-sensitivity dynamic mic like the Shure SM7B (needs more gain headroom)
- ✓You are willing to spend $50 more for future flexibility
- ✓You run a two-person podcast or interview show
Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)
- ✓You record solo — one microphone, one voice, one instrument at a time
- ✓You use a condenser mic like the AT2020 or Rode NT1 (does not need extra gain)
- ✓Budget is tight and the $50 difference matters
- ✓You are a beginner who wants the simplest interface that gets the job done
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) and Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)?
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) is priced at $170 with a 4.7/5 rating from 34,200 reviews. The Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) is priced at $120 with a 4.7/5 rating from 28,900 reviews. Key specs: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) — 2-in/2-out, 2 preamps, Air mode, USB-C. Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) — 2-in/2-out, Air mode, USB-C, 192kHz/24-bit.
Which is cheaper, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) or the Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)?
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) is cheaper at $120, compared to $170 for the other model. The price difference is $50.
Which has better reviews, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) or the Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)?
Both models share the same 4.7/5 rating.
Which audio interfaces should I buy — the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) or the Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)?
It depends on your use case. The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) is ideal for: Standard home studio. The Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) is ideal for: Solo vocalist/guitarist. If budget is the deciding factor, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) is the more affordable option.
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