Conference calls are an essential part of modern-day business communication. With more and more companies embracing remote work, conference calls have become a crucial way to bring teams together for meetings and discussions. However, the effectiveness of these calls can be significantly impacted by the quality of the audio. Poor audio quality can lead to frustration, misunderstandings, and a lack of productivity. This is where conference room microphones come in.
Conference room microphones are designed to capture audio from multiple sources in a room and transmit it to the other end of the call. They are a crucial piece of equipment for any business that conducts conference calls regularly. However, not all conference room microphones are created equal. The type of microphone you choose can significantly impact the clarity and quality of the audio.
When choosing the best conference room microphone, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the size of the room. Larger rooms will require a microphone with a more extended range, while smaller rooms can make do with a more compact microphone. The second is the number of participants. If you have a large group, you will need a microphone that can capture audio from multiple sources simultaneously. Finally, you will want to consider the type of connectivity the microphone offers, whether it be USB, Bluetooth, or wireless.
In this article, we will be reviewing the best conference room microphones on the market today. We have tested and researched various microphones to identify the ones that offer the best audio quality, range, and connectivity. Whether you are conducting a small team meeting or a large conference call, we have a microphone that will meet your needs.
Best Conference Room Microphones
When it comes to conference calls, having a reliable and high-quality microphone is essential for clear communication. Whether you’re hosting a virtual meeting or participating in one, a good conference room microphone can make all the difference. In this roundup, we’ve compiled a list of the best conference room microphones on the market, based on their features, performance, and overall value. From wired to wireless options, we’ve got you covered.
ANSTEN Conference USB Microphone
If you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-use conference room microphone, the ANSTEN Conference USB Microphone might be a good choice for you.
Pros
- Provides clear sound and noise reduction for high-fidelity crystal sound and clear pickup
- Features a 360° omnidirectional microphone that can easily capture 360-degree omnidirectional weak signals, ideal for 4-6 people on conference calls
- True plug-and-play with no need to download anything, and a mute button for quick muting and unmuting
Cons
- Not compatible with Raspberry Pi/Linux/Android/Xbox
- Only works as a microphone and has no speaker function
- Some users reported that the mic did not pick up people if they mumbled
The ANSTEN Conference USB Microphone is equipped with high-density sound-absorbing cotton, which provides high-fidelity crystal sound and clear pickup. The built-in smart chip can effectively block background noise, eliminate echoes, and make the sound clearer and smoother, such as face-to-face conversations. This USB omnidirectional microphone can easily capture 360-degree omnidirectional weak signals, reproduce your voice vividly, and is ideal for 4-6 people on conference calls.
This USB microphone is true plug-and-play, with no need to download anything. Connect one end to the computer (laptop or desktop) and the other end (Type-C) to the microphone. This USB microphone with mute button, press the mute button to quickly mute/unmute, perfect for online group meetings and distance education. This USB conference microphone has multi-purpose uses, such as online meeting/teaching, and business/home video calling, ideal for small group meetings and virtual learning.
Please be aware that this laptop microphone works with Mac OS X Windows 7/8/10 systems, but it is not compatible with Raspberry Pi/Linux/Android/Xbox. Also, note that this conference microphone can only be used as a microphone, it has no speaker function.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-use conference room microphone that provides clear sound and noise reduction, the ANSTEN Conference USB Microphone might be a good choice for you.
TONOR Conference USB Microphone
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use conference room microphone, the TONOR Conference USB Microphone is a great option.
Pros
- The omnidirectional pickup pattern makes it easy to capture sound from all directions, making it perfect for larger conference rooms.
- It’s compatible with all operating systems and requires no drivers, making it easy to set up and use.
- The built-in mute button is convenient for quickly muting and unmuting the microphone.
Cons
- The touch-sensitive mute button can be finicky and may not work consistently.
- Some users have reported that the blue indicator light that shows whether the microphone is working does not work properly.
- While the pickup pattern is great for larger rooms, it may not be ideal for smaller rooms or one-on-one conversations.
The TONOR Conference USB Microphone is a great option for anyone looking for a simple and reliable conference room microphone. The omnidirectional pickup pattern makes it easy to capture sound from all directions, while the built-in mute button is convenient for quickly muting and unmuting the microphone.
The microphone is compatible with all operating systems and requires no drivers, making it easy to set up and use. However, some users have reported issues with the touch-sensitive mute button not working consistently, and the blue indicator light that shows whether the microphone is working may not work properly.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use conference room microphone, the TONOR Conference USB Microphone is definitely worth considering.
INNOTRIK Bluetooth Conference Speaker with Microphone
If you’re looking for a portable and high-quality conference microphone with noise reduction and full-duplex audio, the INNOTRIK Bluetooth Conference Speaker with Microphone is a great option.
Pros
- The upgraded voice processing technology enhances voice and filters background noise like air conditioning noise, keyboard clicks, dog barking, kids crying, etc.
- The 360-degree array ensures that the conference room microphone picks up voice from the entire room, perfect for 3-5 people’s conferences.
- The Bluetooth Conference Speakerphone is compatible with Zoom, Skype, Google hangouts, facetime, and more.
Cons
- Sometimes has trouble switching from Bluetooth to desktop.
- The volume is not the best, but it’s workable.
- The USB cable could be longer.
The INNOTRIK Bluetooth Conference Speaker with Microphone is a must-have tool for multi-person conferencing. With its upgraded audio processing technology, this USB conference microphone is able to identify the distance of the sound source, automatically adjust the sound volume to realize self-volume balance, and provide a smooth and clear call experience. The speakerphone is easy to set up and not distorted by plugging the Bluetooth speakerphone into your PC via USB or Bluetooth Pair.
In addition, the upgraded voice processing technology of the Conference Room Omnidirectional Microphone can intelligently reduce noise and provide industry-leading noise cancellation within 3m distance, ensuring clear sound quality without any irrespective of the environment. The Bluetooth Conference Speakerphone is arranged in an array of 360-degree, ensuring that the conference room microphone picks up voice from the entire room, perfect for 3-5 people’s conferences. It is also ultra-strong compatibility, which can compatible with Zoom, Skype, Google hangouts, facetime, and more. Support Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, Mac OS 10.10 or higher, it is perfect for home office, online class, business trips!
Anker PowerConf S500 Speakerphone
The Anker PowerConf S500 Speakerphone is a high-quality conference microphone that offers a premium voice pickup and hi-fi grade sound. It is certified by Zoom Rooms and Google Meet, making it a reliable communication tool for a variety of third-party platforms.
Pros
- The VoiceRadar Technology eliminates unwanted noise to deliver a more immersive meeting experience.
- The Sensitive Voice Pickup with 4 microphones and 32KHz sampling rate transmits your voice in stunning definition and clarity.
- The Hi-Fi Grade Sound with an acoustically tuned 1.75-inch speaker delivers performance that exceeds the demands of ordinary speakerphones.
Cons
- It is a bit on the expensive side.
- The coverage is limited to small to medium rooms.
- It requires two Lithium Polymer batteries to operate.
The Anker PowerConf S500 Speakerphone is an easy-to-use conference microphone that connects via USB-C, Bluetooth, or with the included dongle. It works with all leading conferencing platforms, including Skype, Facetime, Zoom, and more. The single PowerConf S500 delivers performance for rooms of up to 12 people, and you can wirelessly pair two of them to increase coverage for up to 20 people.
In conclusion, the Anker PowerConf S500 Speakerphone is a great investment for those in need of a reliable and high-quality conference microphone. Its VoiceRadar Technology, Sensitive Voice Pickup, and Hi-Fi Grade Sound make it a top-performing product in the market.
GoldenSky Conference Microphone
If you’re looking for a high-quality conference microphone that can support up to 10 people, the GoldenSky Conference Microphone is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The microphone features an omnidirectional pickup pattern, allowing it to capture sound from all directions.
- The built-in speaker is of high quality and can be used to listen to conference calls or music.
- The microphone features a mute button that is easy to use.
Cons
- The microphone is not compatible with all devices.
- The microphone is not as portable as some other models.
- Some users may find the price to be a bit high.
The GoldenSky Conference Microphone is a great choice for anyone who needs a high-quality microphone for conference calls. With its omnidirectional pickup pattern and high-quality speaker, it’s perfect for small to medium-sized conference rooms. The mute button is easy to use and the microphone is compatible with a wide range of devices.
One of the best things about the GoldenSky Conference Microphone is its omnidirectional pickup pattern. This means that it can capture sound from all directions, making it perfect for use in conference rooms. The built-in speaker is of high quality and can be used to listen to conference calls or music.
While the microphone is not compatible with all devices, it is compatible with most mainstream conference applications like Zoom, Skype, WebEx, Goto Meeting, Google Hangout, Facetime, and more. The microphone is not as portable as some other models, but it is still relatively easy to move around if needed.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality conference microphone that can support up to 10 people, the GoldenSky Conference Microphone is an excellent choice. It’s easy to use, compatible with a wide range of devices, and perfect for small to medium-sized conference rooms.
TONOR USB Conference Microphone
If you’re looking for an affordable conference room microphone, the TONOR USB Conference Microphone is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Compatible with popular meeting software like Zoom, Skype, and WebEx.
- Superior sound quality with built-in noise reduction technology.
- Wide pickup range with an omnidirectional pickup pattern.
Cons
- Some users reported sound fluctuations.
- The mute button is not as easy to use as advertised.
- The USB cable could be longer.
This microphone is perfect for online meetings and distance learning, and it has a wide pickup range that can capture the subtle sound from 360°. It is compatible with Windows and macOS, and it is easy to set up and use. The built-in noise reduction technology can effectively block the noise and eliminate echo to pick up clear sound.
The TONOR USB Conference Microphone is designed for meetings, and it adopts an omnidirectional pickup pattern to capture the voices of all speakers around it. The mic can pick up the voices of all speakers around it with a wide pickup range (5m/16.4ft). When you move within the room, there are no differences in timbre.
The microphone is plug-and-play, and it is a USB 2.0 mic that is compatible with Windows and macOS. Just plug it into a laptop/desktop and get started, no driver software is required. The built-in indicator light informs the status (blue: working, red: mute). It makes your meeting more efficient while you multitask during a call to mute your mic with only one soft touch.
PolaTab Q95mini Conference Speaker and Microphone
If you’re looking for a reliable conference speaker and microphone combo, the PolaTab Q95mini is a great option.
Pros
- The Q95mini provides HD voice and crystal clear sound with 360° omnidirectional microphone and high-quality speaker, plus DSP technology which provides Acoustic Echo Cancellation (AEC) and Automatic Noise Suppression (ANS). This makes it ideal for business conference calls, online courses, meetings, chatting, and more.
- The omnidirectional microphone picks up voices from all directions to instantly transform any space at home or the office into a meeting room. And the best range of voice pick-up is up to 3 meters radius, no need to raise your voices all the time.
- The Q95mini is easy to set up and use with USB plug and play, with 3m (9.8ft) long cable, connecting to your computer without needing to install drivers. USB wired connection is stable. Quickly mute or unmute the conference microphone (DO NOT mute speaker) with the physical mute button.
Cons
- The PolaTab Q95mini is a wired microphone, which means you need to be close to your computer to use it.
- The Q95mini is not compatible with smartphones or tablets, only with laptops, desktop computers, and conferencing systems with USB Type A.
- Some users have reported that the microphone stopped working after a few uses.
The PolaTab Q95mini Conference Speaker and Microphone is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable conference speaker and microphone combo. Its HD voice and crystal clear sound, 360° coverage, and easy setup make it a great investment for your business conference calls, online courses, meetings, chatting, and more. However, it is not compatible with smartphones or tablets, and some users have reported issues with the microphone.
Movo MC1000 Conference USB Microphone
If you’re looking for a reliable conference room microphone, the Movo MC1000 is a great option with its long pickup range and headphone monitoring jack.
Pros
- Captures sound in a 20′ radius with 180° coverage
- Headphone monitoring jack allows you to hear what’s being captured live
- Plug and play setup with 6.5ft usb cable
Cons
- Some users have reported difficulty with installation
- May not be suitable for very large conference rooms
- Some users have reported issues with sound quality
The Movo MC1000 Conference USB Microphone is a great choice for those looking for a reliable, easy-to-use conference room microphone. With its 20ft pickup range and 180° coverage, it’s perfect for video conferencing with large groups or dictation. The headphone monitoring jack allows you to hear what’s being captured live without having to play it back, so you can make adjustments as needed. The plug and play setup with 6.5ft usb cable makes it easy to start recording your office meetings and group discussions quickly and easily.
While some users have reported difficulty with installation, most find it to be a straightforward process. It’s worth noting that the microphone may not be suitable for very large conference rooms, as some users have reported issues with sound quality in such settings. Overall, the Movo MC1000 Conference USB Microphone is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and easy-to-use conference room microphone.
XIIVIO USB Conference Microphone
If you’re looking for a compact and portable conference microphone that delivers excellent audio clarity, the XIIVIO USB Conference Microphone is a great choice.
Pros
- The microphone is covered with high-density sound-absorbing cotton, which makes sound clearer and smoother.
- The microphone can pick up sound from 360° degrees omnidirectional, making it perfect for online meetings and distance education.
- The microphone can pick up your voice from 10ft away, which is 10 times better than traditional computer microphones.
Cons
- The microphone doesn’t have a volume control or on/off switch, just a mute button.
- The sound quality could have been better for the price.
- The operating system recognizes it as ‘UM02 Mono’ without any driver installation.
This microphone is an excellent solution for anyone who needs to make video conferencing, record office meetings in the conference room/meeting room, and more. It’s compact and portable, so it stays perfectly on the conference room table without taking too much space. The mute button is very convenient for online meetings and distance education. Just put the conference microphone into your pocket or briefcase, and you’re ready to go.
The XIIVIO USB Conference Microphone has a 4.3 out of 5-star rating on Amazon, with 1630 ratings total. Overall, this microphone is a great investment for anyone who needs a reliable and high-quality conference microphone.
CMTECK USB Conference Microphone
If you’re looking for an affordable conference room microphone with advanced noise-canceling technology, the CMTECK USB Conference Microphone is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Crystal clear sound with a 360° sensitivity pickup range
- Plug and play, no drivers to install
- Compact and versatile, perfect for meetings, interviews, and more
Cons
- No built-in speaker
- Not compatible with Raspberry Pi/Android
- Some users reported low volume
This microphone is small and portable, making it easy to take with you wherever you go. It’s also compatible with both Windows and macOS, making it a versatile option for any office. The built-in mute button is a convenient feature, allowing you to quickly mute and unmute your microphone.
One of the standout features of this microphone is its advanced noise-canceling technology. The built-in high-performance CMTECK CCS2.0 SMART CHIP can effectively block out background noise and eliminate echo, resulting in crystal clear sound quality.
While this microphone doesn’t have a built-in speaker, it’s designed solely for capturing audio. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for an affordable, high-quality conference room microphone.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best conference room microphone, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for when making your decision:
1. Microphone Type
There are two main types of conference room microphones: omnidirectional and directional. Omnidirectional microphones pick up sound from all directions, while directional microphones focus on sound coming from a specific direction. Depending on the size of your conference room and the number of participants, you may need to choose a microphone that is either omnidirectional or directional.
2. Connectivity
Conference room microphones can connect to your computer or other devices in a variety of ways, including USB, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi. Make sure to choose a microphone that is compatible with your existing equipment and offers a reliable connection.
3. Sound Quality
The sound quality of your conference room microphone is crucial for effective communication. Look for a microphone that offers clear, natural sound and minimizes background noise.
4. Size and Portability
Consider the size and portability of your conference room microphone, especially if you plan to move it from room to room or take it on the go. A compact, lightweight microphone may be more convenient for frequent use.
5. Additional Features
Some conference room microphones offer additional features, such as mute buttons, volume controls, and built-in speakers. Consider which features are most important for your needs and choose a microphone that offers the right combination of features.
In summary, when choosing the best conference room microphone, consider the type of microphone, connectivity options, sound quality, size and portability, and additional features. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a microphone that meets your needs and helps you communicate effectively in your conference room.
Aaron Smith is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.