When it comes to recording audio on your computer, having a quality microphone is crucial. Whether you’re a content creator, gamer, or just need a reliable way to communicate with others online, a good microphone can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best PC microphones on the market.
When choosing a PC microphone, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to think about the type of microphone you need. There are a variety of options available, including USB microphones, XLR microphones, and headset microphones. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your needs.
Other factors to consider include sound quality, durability, and ease of use. You’ll want a microphone that produces clear, high-quality audio without picking up too much background noise. It should also be well-built and able to withstand regular use. Finally, it should be easy to set up and use, even for those who aren’t particularly tech-savvy.
After researching and testing a variety of PC microphones, we’ve narrowed down the top options on the market. Whether you’re a professional content creator or just need a reliable way to communicate online, we’ve got you covered.
Best PC Microphones
If you’re looking to improve the audio quality of your recordings or video calls, a good PC microphone is a must-have. Whether you’re a podcaster, gamer, or just someone who wants to sound their best, there are plenty of options to choose from. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best PC microphones on the market, based on factors like sound quality, ease of use, and value for money. So without further ado, let’s dive in and find the perfect microphone for you.
Logitech for Creators Blue Yeti USB Microphone
If you’re looking for a professional-quality USB mic for your YouTube videos, Twitch game streaming, podcasting, Zoom meetings, or music recording, the Logitech for Creators Blue Yeti USB Microphone is a great choice.
Pros
- The custom three-capsule array produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound.
- The Blue VOICE software enhances your vocal sound and adds advanced modulation and HD audio samples.
- The four pickup patterns (cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo) allow you to record in multiple ways with a single mic.
Cons
- The mic may pick up background noise if you’re not in a quiet environment.
- The included desktop stand may not be adjustable enough for some users.
- The mic may be too heavy for some boom arms.
This mic is designed for creators who want to elevate their audio quality without breaking the bank. With onboard audio controls, a positionable design, and plug-and-play setup, it’s a versatile and user-friendly option.
The Logitech for Creators Blue Yeti USB Microphone is a great investment for anyone who wants to improve their audio quality and take their content creation to the next level.
JOUNIVO USB Microphone
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly PC microphone with decent sound quality, the JOUNIVO USB Microphone is a solid option.
Pros
- 360-degree adjustable gooseneck design for optimal sound location
- Mute button and LED indicator for easy control
- Intelligent noise-canceling technology for clear voice recording
Cons
- Not compatible with Xbox, Raspberry Pi, or Android
- Not ideal for recording vocals
- Some users report issues with Windows 10 sensitivity settings
The JOUNIVO USB Microphone is a plug-and-play microphone that requires no drivers for use with Windows or macOS. Its 360-degree adjustable gooseneck design allows for optimal sound location, and the mute button and LED indicator make it easy to control. The microphone also features intelligent noise-canceling technology to reduce background noise and echo.
While the JOUNIVO USB Microphone is not compatible with Xbox, Raspberry Pi, or Android devices, it is well-suited for PC gaming, dragon voice dictation, and video conferencing. However, it’s not ideal for recording vocals.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable PC microphone that gets the job done, the JOUNIVO USB Microphone is a good choice.
HyperX QuadCast
If you are looking for a high-quality microphone for streaming, podcasting, or gaming, the HyperX QuadCast is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The built-in anti-vibration shock mount effectively reduces any unwanted noise caused by movements.
- The tap-to-mute sensor with LED status indicator allows you to quickly mute or unmute your microphone.
- With four selectable polar patterns, you can easily optimize your broadcast setup and keep the focus on the sounds you want to be heard.
Cons
- The microphone is relatively heavy, which may make it difficult to mount on some stands.
- Some users have reported that the microphone is prone to picking up background noise, even with the gain control adjusted.
- The price point may be a bit high for some users, especially those who are just starting out with streaming or podcasting.
The HyperX QuadCast is a versatile and high-quality microphone that is well-suited for a variety of broadcasting needs. Whether you are looking to stream on Twitch, record a podcast, or communicate with your teammates while gaming, this microphone is a great choice. With its built-in anti-vibration shock mount, tap-to-mute sensor, and four selectable polar patterns, you can easily customize your setup to fit your needs.
One potential downside of the HyperX QuadCast is its weight. At 710g, it is relatively heavy, which may make it difficult to mount on some stands. Additionally, some users have reported that the microphone is prone to picking up background noise, even with the gain control adjusted. Finally, the price point may be a bit high for some users, especially those who are just starting out with streaming or podcasting.
Despite these potential drawbacks, the HyperX QuadCast is a high-quality microphone that is well worth considering if you are looking for a versatile and reliable broadcasting solution. With its impressive sound quality and user-friendly features, this microphone is sure to be a valuable addition to any streaming or podcasting setup.
HyperX QuadCast S
If you’re looking for a high-quality USB condenser microphone, the HyperX QuadCast S is a great option that offers both exceptional sound quality and a stylish design that will add flair to any stream or setup.
Pros
- The RGB lighting is customizable and adds a stunning, eye-catching effect to your setup.
- The built-in anti-vibration shock mount helps to suppress unwanted sound and rumbles.
- The tap-to-mute sensor is a convenient feature that allows you to quickly mute the mic and avoid any broadcasting accidents.
Cons
- The microphone is a bit on the heavy side, which may make it difficult to maneuver or adjust.
- The RGB lighting may be distracting for some users, particularly if they prefer a more minimalist setup.
- The microphone is quite sensitive, which may require some adjustment to avoid picking up unwanted background noise.
The HyperX QuadCast S is a versatile mic that is ideal for streaming, gaming, podcasts, and more. With four selectable polar patterns, you can optimize your setup for nearly any recording situation, and the gain control dial allows you to quickly regulate input sensitivity. The included mount adapter fits 3/8” and 5/8” thread sizes, making it compatible with most stands, and the internal pop filter helps block plosive sounds from hitting the mic. Additionally, the headphone jack on the back of the mic allows you to monitor your mic in real-time, and the mic is certified by Discord and TeamSpeak for clear broadcasting.
Overall, the HyperX QuadCast S is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality USB condenser microphone that offers exceptional sound quality and customizable RGB lighting.
FIFINE Gaming PC USB Microphone
If you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-use microphone for gaming, streaming, or recording, the FIFINE Gaming PC USB Microphone is a great option that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- The plug-and-play design makes it easy to set up and use without any additional software or complicated setup steps.
- The cool lighting design adds a fun and eye-catching element to your gaming or streaming setup.
- The touch-mute button and big volume knob make it easy to adjust the audio settings without interrupting your gameplay.
Cons
- The microphone may not be as sensitive as some higher-end models, so it may not pick up every sound or voice in the room.
- The boom arm stand may not be as sturdy as some users would like, and may require some adjustments to get it to stay in place.
- The detachable pop filter may not be as effective as some users would like, and may not eliminate all popping or plosive sounds.
In terms of performance, the FIFINE Gaming PC USB Microphone is a solid choice for gamers and streamers who want a reliable and affordable microphone that can deliver clear and accurate audio. The plug-and-play design makes it easy to set up and use right out of the box, and the cool lighting design adds a fun and eye-catching element to your gaming or streaming setup. The touch-mute button and big volume knob also make it easy to adjust the audio settings without interrupting your gameplay.
That being said, there are some potential downsides to consider. The microphone may not be as sensitive as some higher-end models, so it may not pick up every sound or voice in the room. The boom arm stand may also require some adjustments to get it to stay in place, and the detachable pop filter may not be as effective as some users would like. Overall, however, the FIFINE Gaming PC USB Microphone is a solid choice for gamers and streamers who want a reliable and affordable microphone that can deliver clear and accurate audio.
AUDIOPRO USB Microphone
If you’re looking for a high-quality microphone for your PC, laptop, or phone, the AUDIOPRO USB Microphone is a great choice with its excellent sound quality and easy installation.
Pros
- Compatible with various devices
- Onboard audio controls for easy adjustments
- Great sound quality with noise suppression
Cons
- May not work with some gaming consoles
- Some users reported issues with the LED light
- Pop filter could be sturdier
This podcast microphone has a cardioid pickup pattern, which captures clear, smooth, and crisp sound while suppressing unwanted background noise. It supports sample rates up to 192kHz/24bit, making it great for presentations, podcasts, Zoom, Skype, recordings, YouTube, instant messaging, gaming, and streaming on Twitch.
The microphone is easy to install and use, simply plug in a USB cable, and you’re good to go. It also comes with a well-fitted pop filter, which is a nice addition. The mic gain and volume knobs are sensitive, allowing you to adjust the appropriate volume at will to record sound more comfortably.
However, some users reported issues with the LED light, which indicates the working status. It may not work with some gaming consoles, so be sure to check compatibility before purchasing. Additionally, the pop filter could be sturdier.
Overall, the AUDIOPRO USB Microphone is a great choice for those looking for a high-quality microphone with excellent sound quality and easy installation.
MAONO USB Microphone
If you’re looking for a high-quality USB microphone for your PC, the MAONO USB Microphone is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Professional sound chipset for high resolution sampling rate
- Plug and play USB 2.0 data port for easy connection
- Strong bass response with 16mm electret condenser transducer
Cons
- May not be as loud as other microphones
- Some users have reported durability issues with the boom arm
- Pop filter mount may not be the best
This condenser microphone has been designed with a professional sound chipset, which lets it hold a high resolution sampling rate of 192kHz/24bit. It has a smooth, flat frequency response of 30Hz-16kHz, making it perfect for singing, speech, and voice over work. The USB microphone has a plug and play USB 2.0 data port, which makes it easy to connect to your computer and Linux operation system without the need for extra driver software or an external sound card. The 16mm electret condenser transducer gives you a strong bass response, and the magnet ring on the USB microphone cable has a strong anti-interference function. The microphone comes with a sturdy boom arm set that includes a pop filter and foam windscreen, as well as a shock mount that holds the microphone steady with damping function. It’s compatible with most operating systems, including laptops, PCs, and mobile phones. However, if you want to connect it to a phone, you’ll need an OTG adapter (not included). The MAONO USB Microphone is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality USB microphone for their PC.
HyperX SoloCast
The HyperX SoloCast is a versatile USB condenser microphone designed for streamers, gamers, and podcasters who want great-sounding audio recordings. It’s easy to use, and features a tap-to-mute sensor, making it simple to mute the mic when needed.
Pros
- Plug N Play audio recording with USB-C connection
- Hi-Res 24-bit/96 kHz recording
- Tap-to-Mute sensor with LED status indicator
Cons
- Some background noise may be picked up
- No software control over the mic
- May need a boom arm and shock mount to reduce background noise
The HyperX SoloCast is a great choice for those who want a simple and efficient audio solution. The cardioid polar pattern is most sensitive to sound sources in front of the microphone, and reduces background noise. The flexible, adjustable stand swivels to support a variety of setups and is compatible with most mic stands or boom arms.
The mic is plug and play, making it easy to use, and it’s compatible with most streaming software, including OBS, XSplit, and Streamlabs OBS. The tap-to-mute sensor is a great feature that allows you to quickly mute the mic when needed, and the LED status indicator lets you know whether or not you’re broadcasting.
Overall, the HyperX SoloCast is a great option for those looking for a high-quality USB condenser microphone. It’s perfect for gaming, streaming, podcasting, and more.
Logitech for Creators BlueSnowball iCE USB Microphone
If you’re looking for a high-quality USB microphone for recording and streaming, the Logitech for Creators BlueSnowball iCE USB Microphone is definitely worth checking out.
Pros
- Crystal-clear audio quality
- Stylish retro design
- Adjustable desktop stand
Cons
- No mute button
- Sound quality could be better
- Stand can be unstable
The Logitech for Creators BlueSnowball iCE USB Microphone is a great choice for anyone who wants to improve their audio quality without spending a lot of money. With its custom cardioid condenser capsule, this microphone delivers crystal-clear audio quality that’s light-years ahead of your built-in computer microphone. Plus, its stylish retro design looks great on your desktop and on camera.
One of the best things about the Logitech for Creators BlueSnowball iCE USB Microphone is its adjustable desktop stand. This allows you to position the condenser microphone in relation to the sound source, improving sound quality and saving space on your desktop for the optimal broadcast setup.
However, there are a few downsides to the Logitech for Creators BlueSnowball iCE USB Microphone. Firstly, it doesn’t have a mute button, which can be a bit of a pain if you need to mute yourself during a call or recording. Secondly, while the sound quality is good, it could be better. Finally, the stand can be a bit unstable, which can be frustrating if you’re trying to record or stream for extended periods of time.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable USB microphone that delivers great audio quality and looks great on your desktop, the Logitech for Creators BlueSnowball iCE USB Microphone is definitely worth considering.
FIFINE Studio Condenser USB Microphone
If you’re looking for a high-quality microphone for recording vocals, podcasts, or Skype, the FIFINE Studio Condenser USB Microphone is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Simple setup with USB output
- Excellent sound quality
- Durable arm set
Cons
- Incompatible with Xbox and phones
- Some users report issues with mic input
- Low-end focus in audio recording
The FIFINE Studio Condenser USB Microphone offers a wide frequency response and handles high SPLs with ease, making it ideal for project/home-studio applications. The cardioid condenser capsule offers crystal-clear audio for communicating, creating, and recording. The podcast microphone bundle comes with a versatile and sturdy broadcast suspension boom scissor arm, a double pop filter, a premium 8.2′ USB cable, and a user manual.
The adjustable boom studio scissor arm stand features a heavy-duty combo mount consisting of a sturdy C-clamp and a detachable desktop mount. With a 13″ fixed horizontal arm and a 30″ reach, the low-profile, table-hugging design allows on-air talent to perform without facial obstruction to record in podcasting or make dubbing sounds for videos, use voice chat in Discord or online conference on Zoom or Skype.
Overall, the FIFINE Studio Condenser USB Microphone is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality microphone for their PC, and it’s a great value for the price.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best PC microphone, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Microphone Type
There are several types of microphones available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The most common types are:
- Dynamic microphones: These are durable and can handle loud sounds well, making them ideal for recording vocals or live performances.
- Condenser microphones: These are more sensitive and offer greater detail and clarity, making them a good choice for recording instruments or vocals in a studio setting.
- USB microphones: These are designed specifically for use with computers and are easy to set up and use.
Polar Pattern
The polar pattern refers to the directionality of the microphone. There are three main types:
- Cardioid: This pattern picks up sound from the front of the microphone and rejects sound from the sides and rear. It’s ideal for recording a single source, such as a singer or instrument.
- Omnidirectional: This pattern picks up sound from all directions and is useful for recording a group of people or capturing ambient sound.
- Bidirectional: This pattern picks up sound from the front and rear of the microphone, but not from the sides. It’s ideal for recording interviews or conversations between two people.
Frequency Response
The frequency response refers to the range of frequencies that the microphone can pick up. Look for a microphone that offers a wide frequency range to capture all the nuances of your voice or instrument.
Sensitivity
The sensitivity of a microphone refers to how well it can pick up quiet sounds. If you’re recording in a noisy environment, look for a microphone with a high sensitivity rating.
Connectivity
Finally, consider how you’ll be connecting the microphone to your computer. USB microphones are the most convenient option, but if you’re using a condenser microphone, you may need to use an audio interface to connect it to your computer.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best PC microphone for your needs and ensure that your recordings sound clear and professional.
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.
