USB microphones are an essential tool for anyone who needs to record audio or communicate via voice chat. Unlike traditional microphones, USB microphones can be plugged directly into your computer, making them easy to use and highly portable. Whether you’re a podcaster, musician, or gamer, a USB microphone can help you achieve professional-quality audio without breaking the bank.
When shopping for a USB microphone, it’s important to consider factors like sound quality, ease of use, and compatibility with your computer. Some microphones are better suited for recording vocals, while others are designed for use with instruments or gaming. Additionally, you’ll want to look for features like adjustable gain, mute buttons, and headphone jacks to ensure that you can customize your recording setup to suit your needs.
In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at the best USB microphones on the market today. Whether you’re a professional audio engineer or a hobbyist looking to up your recording game, we’ve got you covered. We’ll be evaluating each microphone based on its sound quality, ease of use, and value for money, so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Best USB Microphones
If you are looking to improve the audio quality of your podcasts, videos, or live streams, investing in a USB microphone is a great place to start. USB microphones are easy to set up and use, and they can provide much better sound quality than the built-in microphones on your computer or camera. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best USB microphones on the market, based on their sound quality, ease of use, and overall value. Take a look at our top picks and find the perfect USB microphone for your needs.
Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone
If you’re looking for a high-quality USB microphone for digital recording, the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The built-in headphone jack with volume control allows you to directly monitor your microphone signal with no delay.
- The mix control lets you blend your microphone signal and prerecorded audio.
- The high output, internal headphone amplifier delivers superior clarity and musical detail as well as more volume overall.
Cons
- There is no on/off switch, so the blue light is always on when the microphone is connected.
- The microphone is less sensitive than usual, which may be a downside for some users.
- The price is a bit higher than some other USB microphones on the market.
The Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ offers studio-quality articulation and intelligibility that’s perfect for singer/songwriters, podcasters, voice-over artists, field recorders, and home studio recorders. Its cardioid pickup pattern delivers excellent off-axis rejection, while its A/D converter with a 16-bit, 44.1/48 kHz sampling rate ensures extremely articulate sound reproduction.
This USB microphone is compatible with Windows 7, Vista, XP, 2000 and Mac OS X, making it a versatile choice for a variety of users. Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality USB microphone with great sound quality and features, the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ is definitely worth considering.
Logitech for Creators Yeti USB Microphone
If you’re looking for a high-quality USB microphone, the Logitech for Creators Yeti USB Microphone is a great choice. With advanced Blue VO!CE software, this microphone produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for music, podcasts, Twitch streaming, YouTube videos, and Zoom calls.
Pros
- Custom three-capsule array produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for various applications
- Blue VOICE software enhances your recordings with clear broadcast vocal sound and advanced modulation
- Four pickup patterns allow you to record in ways that would normally require multiple mics
Cons
- Some users have reported feedback issues
- The microphone is quite heavy
- The price point is higher than some other USB microphones on the market
The Logitech for Creators Yeti USB Microphone is a versatile and high-quality microphone that is perfect for a variety of applications. Whether you’re recording music, streaming on Twitch, or hosting a Zoom call, this microphone will produce clear and powerful sound. The Blue VO!CE software is a great feature that allows you to enhance your recordings with clear broadcast vocal sound and advanced modulation.
The four pickup patterns are another great feature that allows you to record in ways that would normally require multiple mics. This makes the microphone a great choice for podcasters, musicians, and streamers.
While some users have reported feedback issues with the microphone, this is not a common problem. The microphone is quite heavy, which may be an issue for some users. Additionally, the price point is higher than some other USB microphones on the market.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality USB microphone, the Logitech for Creators Yeti USB Microphone is a great choice.
Shure MV7 USB Microphone
The Shure MV7 USB Microphone is a great choice for those who want professional-quality audio for podcasting, recording, live streaming, and gaming.
Pros
- Provides rich and natural vocal reproduction
- Dual USB/XLR output allows for digital or analog recording
- Intuitive touch panel controls for easy gain, monitoring, and muting
Cons
- The USB port may become loose over time
- The included cable is fragile and prone to breaking
- May not be the best choice for those on a tight budget
The Shure MV7 USB Microphone is a professional-quality microphone that provides clear and balanced audio for a variety of applications. Its dual USB/XLR output allows for flexible recording options, while its intuitive touch panel controls make it easy to adjust gain, monitoring volume, headphone mix, and mic muting.
One of the standout features of the Shure MV7 is its optimized frequency response, which provides rich and natural vocal reproduction. This makes it a great choice for podcasters, singers, and anyone who needs clear and intelligible audio for their recordings.
While the Shure MV7 is a great microphone, it does have a few drawbacks. Some users have reported that the USB port can become loose over time, which can cause connectivity issues. Additionally, the included cable is fragile and may break easily, so it’s important to handle it with care.
Overall, the Shure MV7 USB Microphone is a great choice for anyone who wants professional-quality audio for their recordings. While it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget, its rich and natural vocal reproduction, flexible recording options, and intuitive touch panel controls make it a great investment for podcasters, singers, and content creators.
COCONISE Gaming Microphone
If you’re looking for a USB microphone that’s perfect for gaming, podcasting, and streaming, the COCONISE Gaming Microphone is a great option.
Pros
- Gradient RGB Symphony Lights for an immersive gaming experience
- One-button mute touch sensor for easy muting
- Cardioid polar pattern for crisp, clear sound
Cons
- Some users may find the volume control button difficult to use
- The microphone may pick up background noise in some settings
- The included pop filter may not be as effective as some users would like
The COCONISE Gaming Microphone is a great choice for gamers and streamers who want a high-quality microphone that looks great and sounds even better. The gradient RGB symphony lights create an immersive gaming experience, while the one-button mute touch sensor makes it easy to mute the microphone when needed. The cardioid polar pattern ensures that your voice is captured clearly and accurately, while reducing background noise and other distractions.
The microphone is easy to set up and use, and it’s compatible with a wide range of devices, including PS4/PS4pro/PS5 desktop and laptop computers. The 180cm long detachable USB data cable provides plenty of flexibility, and the weighted carbon steel base ensures that the microphone stays in place, even during intense gaming sessions.
Overall, if you’re looking for a USB microphone that’s perfect for gaming, podcasting, and streaming, the COCONISE Gaming Microphone is an excellent choice. With its high-quality construction, great sound quality, and convenient features, it’s sure to be a hit with gamers and streamers alike.
TONOR Dynamic Microphone
The TONOR Dynamic Microphone is an excellent choice for podcasters, streamers, and content creators who want a high-quality mic that is easy to use and delivers excellent sound.
Pros
- The premium dynamic core brings excellent frequency response range (50Hz-14KHz) and outstanding sound pressure level (Max SPL.110dB), helping you to present rich and natural vocals in video, audio recording, and live streaming.
- The TONOR dynamic microphone designed with a cardioid pattern eliminates off-axis audio and minimizes ambient noise. Plus, its built-in noise reduction technology ensures an extremely low noise floor and a signal-to-noise ratio of 95dB, resulting in a pure and pristine sound experience.
- This microphone supports both USB and XLR outputs. With the plug-and-play feature under USB mode, it is easy to use for desktop or laptop recording. The XLR interface outputs analog signals, which enhances the sense of audio space for an immersive podcast experience. Furthermore, it supports connections to an audio interface and mixer for a more natural and high-end audio experience.
Cons
- Long-press the mute button to switch volume control between the microphone and headphone, which may not be intuitive for some users.
- The XLR configuration may require an inline preamp to hear anything, which may add an additional expense for those who want to use this feature.
- The buttons on the microphone only work if you use the USB cable, which may be inconvenient for those who prefer to use the XLR output.
The TONOR Dynamic Microphone is a great option for those who want a versatile and high-quality microphone for their content creation needs. With its excellent noise suppression, warm and balanced vocal, and premium metal shell, this microphone is perfect for podcasters, streamers, and video creators who want to deliver a professional-sounding product.
AUDIOPRO USB Microphone
The AUDIOPRO USB Microphone is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile and high-quality microphone for streaming, podcasting, and studio recording.
Pros
- Plug and play compatibility with a wide range of devices, including Mac, PS4/5, Windows PC, and Android phones with Type-C port
- Onboard audio controls for easy adjustment of mic gain and volume, with quick mute functionality and built-in LED light
- Excellent sound quality with cardioid pickup pattern and support for sample rates up to 192kHz/24bit
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the mic stand being unstable
- The included pop filter may not be sufficient for all users’ needs
- The mic gain knob may be too sensitive for some users’ preferences
The AUDIOPRO USB Microphone is a great all-in-one solution for anyone looking to improve their audio quality. With easy installation and compatibility with a wide range of devices, it’s a versatile and convenient choice. The onboard audio controls make it easy to adjust the mic gain and volume, with quick mute functionality for added convenience. The cardioid pickup pattern ensures clear and smooth sound, while the support for high sample rates makes it a great choice for recording podcasts, streaming, and more.
Some users have reported issues with the mic stand being unstable, but this can be easily remedied with the use of a standard boom arm. Additionally, the included pop filter may not be sufficient for all users’ needs, but it’s a nice bonus that comes at no additional cost. Finally, some users may find the mic gain knob to be too sensitive for their preferences, but this is a minor issue that can be adjusted with practice. Overall, the AUDIOPRO USB Microphone is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality and versatile microphone.
RØDE NT-USB Versatile Studio-quality Condenser USB Microphone
If you’re looking for a high-quality USB microphone, the RØDE NT-USB is a great choice.
Pros
- Versatile for recording singing, musical performances, podcasting, and voice-over
- Real-time monitoring with zero-latency stereo headphone jack
- Comes with a pop filter, stand mount, and desktop tripod stand
Cons
- Gain setting can be tricky to get right
- Picks up background noise if gain is set too high
- Plastic attachment point for stand is not very sturdy
The RØDE NT-USB is a highly versatile USB microphone that is ideal for a variety of recording applications. You can use it to record singing, musical performances, podcasting, and voice-over. The microphone is fully compatible with all mainstream recording applications on both Windows and Mac OS based computers, as well as the Apple iPad using Rode Rec, Garage Band, or any other recording app that accepts an external microphone.
One of the best features of the RØDE NT-USB is the zero-latency stereo headphone monitoring jack. This allows you to monitor the microphone input in real-time, along with dials to adjust the monitoring level and mix between the computer/iPad audio and the microphone input. The microphone also comes with a premium pop-filter that fits onto the base of the mic, positioning the filter the ideal distance from the capsule to minimize plosives during singing or speech.
However, the gain setting can be tricky to get right. When the gain is set too high, the microphone will be too sensitive and can pick up room noise that can even be heard as a hiss. When the gain is set too low, the microphone will be barely audible. Additionally, the plastic attachment point for the stand is not very sturdy.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality USB microphone, the RØDE NT-USB is definitely worth considering.
FIFINE USB Computer Microphone
This USB microphone is a great option for those who need a flexible gooseneck design that allows for easy adjustment and a cardioid polar pattern that reduces feedback.
Pros
- The gooseneck design allows for easy adjustment and positioning of the microphone.
- The USB plug-and-play feature makes it easy to connect to a laptop or PC and start recording or chatting.
- The volume knob and mute button are easy to use and help with recording and live chat.
Cons
- The microphone may not be suitable for high-fidelity recording or professional use.
- The non-detachable USB cable may make it difficult to replace if damaged.
- The microphone may not be compatible with all devices.
This microphone is a great option for those who need a flexible and easy-to-use USB microphone for meetings, presentations, and live chat. The gooseneck design allows for easy adjustment and positioning, while the USB plug-and-play feature makes it easy to connect to a laptop or PC. The volume knob and mute button are also easy to use and help with recording and live chat. However, the microphone may not be suitable for high-fidelity recording or professional use, and the non-detachable USB cable may make it difficult to replace if damaged. Additionally, the microphone may not be compatible with all devices.
PROAR XLR/USB Dynamic Microphone
If you are looking for a versatile and high-quality microphone for podcasting, vocal recording, live streaming, gaming, and voice-over, you should definitely consider the PROAR XLR/USB Dynamic Microphone. With its custom dynamic capsule, convenient USB and XLR outputs, noise reduction technology, and gain control, this microphone offers great sound quality and flexibility.
Pros
- The custom dynamic capsule captures deep lows, delicate highs, and crisp mid-tones for rich and natural vocal reproduction.
- The USB and XLR outputs make it easy to connect the microphone to most computers, phones, PS4/PS5, and tablets, and to use it with audio interfaces or external mixers.
- The noise reduction technology and gain control allow you to adjust the microphone volume and echo during the recording process and to eliminate unwanted noise.
Cons
- The microphone requires an external power source when used with the XLR output.
- The gain control is only available for USB connection.
- The microphone does not have a pop filter included.
The PROAR XLR/USB Dynamic Microphone is a great choice for anyone who wants to produce high-quality audio content without breaking the bank. The microphone is easy to use, versatile, and reliable, and it comes with a 12-month warranty. Whether you are a professional podcaster, a gamer, a singer, or a content creator, this microphone can help you achieve great results.
Yerrf USB Microphone
If you’re looking for a professional-quality USB microphone for gaming, streaming, recording, or podcasting, the Yerrf USB microphone is a great choice.
Pros
- Crystal-clear sound quality with minimum background noise
- Easy to install and use, plug-and-play with no additional drivers required
- Tap-to-Mute button for quick and convenient muting
Cons
- Only available in one color (black)
- May not be compatible with all devices
- Some users may prefer a different polar pattern than the omnidirectional pattern offered by this microphone
The Yerrf USB microphone is a high-quality microphone that offers crystal-clear audio with minimum background noise. It features cardioid pointing characteristics to pick up your voice perfectly, and the volume can be controlled at the bottom of the RGB microphone. The headphone jack allows for real-time monitoring, helping to get clear, smooth sound when recording.
This cardioid condenser mic adopts Hi-Fi technology with a 24bit/96kHz sample rating, making it an excellent choice for gamers, streamers, and podcasters who want the best sound quality possible. It comes with a pop filter and a shock mount that will help to minimize unwanted background noise and gain the best pick-up voice based on the excellent sound quality.
The Yerrf USB microphone is easy to install and use, plug-and-play with no additional drivers required. The proper angle can be adjusted with the screws on the microphone’s shock mount. The microphone also features a Tap-to-Mute button on the top of the audio recording microphone to turn on or off the mute mode.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a high-quality USB microphone for gaming, streaming, recording, or podcasting, the Yerrf USB microphone is an excellent choice. It offers crystal-clear sound quality with minimum background noise, is easy to install and use, and features a Tap-to-Mute button for quick and convenient muting.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best USB microphone, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the right product for your needs. Here are some key features to look for:
Microphone Type
There are two main types of USB microphones: dynamic and condenser. Dynamic microphones are more durable and can handle high sound pressure levels, making them ideal for loud environments. On the other hand, condenser microphones are more sensitive and offer a wider frequency range, making them perfect for capturing subtle nuances in vocals and instruments.
Polar Pattern
The polar pattern of a microphone refers to the directionality of its pickup. There are three main types of polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional. Cardioid microphones pick up sound from the front and reject sound from the sides and back, making them ideal for solo recordings. Omnidirectional microphones pick up sound from all directions, making them perfect for group recordings. Bidirectional microphones pick up sound from the front and back, making them ideal for interviews and duets.
Frequency Response
The frequency response of a microphone refers to the range of frequencies it can capture. A wider frequency response means that the microphone can capture a broader range of sounds, from low bass to high treble. This is important for capturing the full range of a vocal or instrument.
Accessories
Some USB microphones come with accessories such as shock mounts, pop filters, and stands. Shock mounts help to reduce vibrations and handling noise, while pop filters help to reduce plosives and sibilance. Stands can help to position the microphone at the right height and angle for optimal recording.
Compatibility
Make sure that the USB microphone you choose is compatible with your computer or recording device. Most USB microphones are plug-and-play, but some may require additional drivers or software to function properly.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best USB microphone for your needs.
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.
