The Best Affordable Mic For Streaming In 2024
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording and Streaming on PC and Mac
The unique positionable design allows you to adjust and pivot the mic in relation to the sound source for optimal sound. With a 16-bit, 48 kHz sampling rate along with a tri-capsule array, this professional mic is perfect for any project. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: USB Microphone, TONOR Computer Cardioid Condenser PC Gaming Mic
With a USB 2.0 data port, the TC-777 is plug and play, no additional driver is required. It is ideal for conference, distance learning, streaming, chatting, podcasting, recording and more! Read Review
3. Best Sound Quality: HyperX QuadCast - USB Condenser Gaming Microphone, for PC
The HyperX QuadCast is a USB microphone, perfect for gamers and content creators. With its low-noise, low-distortion, and high-quality construction, it provides a professional sound to your voice. Read Review
4. Best For Gamer: USB Microphone, TONOR Cardioid Condenser Computer PC Mic
The TONOR Cardioid Condenser Computer PC Microphone is an essential tool for your next live stream, recording or podcast. The cardioid pickup pattern and excellent off-axis suppression function captures more natural sound and suppresses unwanted background noise. Read Review
As streaming grows in popularity, more people want to jump on that bandwagon. You need to invest wisely if you're going to stand out and grow your audience. You won’t get anywhere without quality content, and the best way to improve it is by investing in the right equipment. Many factors go into choosing the perfect mic for streaming, but there are some things you should consider before making a purchase. Whether you stream alone or with others, your audience must hear you. The type of microphone also matters because it will directly impact your performance and how others perceive you as an artist.
There are many affordable options for streamers on a budget, but not all mics are created equal; some cost less than others for a reason. Here is a list of what we think are the best affordable mics for streaming so you can focus on creating great content instead of worrying about investing in an expensive piece of equipment.
With the Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording and Streaming on PC and Mac, you will have no difficulty finding anything to meet your needs! This model has enhanced effects, advanced modulation and HD audio samples.
Our top models are equipped with features to meet every requirement.
RELATED: We've Compiled 1,878+ Customer Reviews to Find You the best microphone for group zoom meetings In 2024. See Our Top Picks of 2024.
Our Top Picks
TOP Choice #1
![Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording and Streaming on PC and Mac]()
- Onboard Audio Controls: Headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and mic gain put you in charge of every level of the recording and streaming process.
- Four Pickup Patterns: Flexible cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns allow you to record in ways that would normally require multiple mics.
- Unique Positionable Design: Adjust and pivot the microphone in relation to the sound source to optimize your sound quality.
- Custom Three-Capsule Array: Produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for YouTube, game streaming, podcasting, Zoom calls and music.
- Blue VO!CE Software: Craft the perfect broadcast vocal sound and entertain your audience with enhanced effects, advanced modulation and HD audio samples. Advanced Blue VO!CE is compatible with Yeti, Yeti Nano and Yeti X. To access Blue VO!CE, please download Logitech’s free G HUB software.
TOP Choice #2
![USB Microphone, TONOR Computer Cardioid Condenser PC Gaming Mic]()
Best Bang For The Buck
USB Microphone, TONOR Computer Cardioid Condenser PC Gaming Mic
- Cardioid Pickup Pattern: This mic has a cardioid pickup pattern that captures the clear, smooth and crisp sound in front of the microphone and suppresses unwanted background noise.
- Easy to Install: Without any assembly, only need to unfold the three-legged stand directly and adjust the position of the pop filter, then it can be plug and play.
- Plug and Play: With a USB 2.0 data port, the TC-777 is plug and play, no any additional driver is required. Ideal for conference, distance learning, streaming, chatting, podcasting, recording, Zoom, Skype, YouTube video, etc.
- What You Get: 1 x Microphone with Power Cord(1.5m), 1 x Foldable Mic Tripod, 1 x Mini Shock Mount, 1 x Pop Filter and 1 x Manual. (Note: It is not compatible with Xbox.)
- Versatility: The shock mount can be unscrewed and attached to a boom stand with 5/8'' threaded insert directly. Note: If the threaded insert your stand comes with is 3/8'', then the 3/8'' female to 5/8'' male threaded screw adapter is needed (not included).
- Multi device and chat program compatibility
- Convenient gain control adjustment
- Tap to mute sensor with LED indicator
- Anti-vibration shock mount
- Mount adapter included
- Four selectable polar patterns
4
![USB Microphone, TONOR Cardioid Condenser Computer PC Mic]()
- Easy to Install: Without any assembly, only need to attach the pop filter to the mic tripod, then it can be plug and play.
- Cardioid Pickup Pattern: The mic has a cardioid pickup pattern and an excellent off-axis suppression function, allowing it to capture more natural sound and suppress unwanted background noise.
- Exceptional Anti-vibration: The upgraded concealed shock mount can effectively reduce the noise caused by the mouse, keyboard, radiator or touch of the microphone.
- What You Get: 1 x condenser microphone, 1 x shock mount, 1 x foldable mic tripod, 1 x pop filter, 1 x USB Type-C to USB-A 2.0 Cable, 1 x manual. Note: It is compatible with Macs, PCs, PS4 and iPad (an adapter is required), not compatible with Phones and Xbox.
- Plug and Play: With a USB 2.0 data port, no additional driver is required. TC30 is compatible with Windows, macOS and Linux. Ideal for gaming, podcasting, zoom meeting, streaming, Skype chatting, online conference.
5
![Razer Seiren X USB Streaming Microphone: Professional Grade]()
- Zero Latency Monitoring: Allows for real-time in-stream monitoring without confusing echos
- Built-In Shock Mount: Dampens vibrations to help protect against bumps for smooth and uninterrupted audio
- Built-In background Noise Reduction: Utilizes a supercardiod pickup microphone to eliminate distracting noises further away from the microphone for professional-grade stream audio
6
![Streaming Podcast PC Cardioid Condenser Computer Mic for Gaming]()
- Great Sound of Fidelity: Equipped with a 16mm large diaphragm, wide frequency response (20Hz to 20KHz) and professional sound chipset, Q9 microphone provides a perfect combination of clarity, warmth, extended dynamic range and high SPL capability. The cardioid condenser capsule enables the Q9 to capture pristine and accurate sound and cancel noise from surroundings, perfect for recording and communicating.
- Plug and Play: With USB A to B cable, TONOR Q9 microphone is easy to connect with both Mac and Windows computer, no need any extra driver software or sound card. It is perfect for podcasting, music/video recording, live streaming, gaming or online chatting. Note: This microphone is compatible with PS4, but not compatible with Xbox.
- Complete Mic Set: Package includes a condenser microphone, metal shock mount, adjustable suspension scissor arm stand, desk mount clamp, pop filter, foam mic cover, 1.8M USB A to B cable and manual. All premium accessories are contained in one package, which makes the TONOR Q9 to be your most secure choice!
- Durable Boom Stand: The Q9 microphone has a sturdy all-metal suspension scissor stand that extends vertically up to 27.5"/700mm, giving you an excellent range of motion. Maximum desk thickness: 1.7"/45mm.
- User-friendly Design: With a convenient volume button, TONOR Q9 recording microphone is much easier for you to use. In working status, short press for adjusting mic volume level, 3s long press for turning off the microphone.
7
![FIFINE USB Podcast Microphone for Recording Streaming]()
- 【Easy-to-use Controls】The desk microphone's 3.5mm stereo headphone output features a volume control and provides direct, latency-free monitoring anywhere, adjustable volume ensures monitoring quality and convenience. The quick mute functionality is very handy for headphones or monitors, with built-in LED light Indicate the working status. Provide a simple and efficient system for speech, podcasting, asmr and voice over applications.
- 【Streamlined Setup】USB output enables direct integration with a desktop or laptop computer.Condenser mic combines professional quality sound capture with the ease of plug-and-play USB connectivity on both pc and laptop, offering simple operability and high-quality audio capture for podcasters, YouTubers, vloggers, gamers, and voice-over artists in homes, project studios. ◆◆Incompatible with Xbox / Phones / iPad◆◆
- 【Excellent Sound Quality】Stereo microphone deliver crystal clear, well-balanced reproduction across a wide frequency response and handles high SPLs, provide detailed, quality faithful sound for studio or on-the-road use. Cardioid polar pattern for minimal noise and feedback control, offers pristine and accurate capture. Suitable for presentations, podcasts, zoom, skype, recordings, instant messaging, game, stream on twitch.
- 【Decent Material for Durability】Integrated desktop stand made by die-cast zinc construction for secure and easily portable tabletop use. Compact Rugged metal construction dictation microphone for long-lasting performance. Very long USB cable (6.56’) with double with magnet ring minimize or eliminate the problem electromagnetic interference from computers. It's a super voice quality for tutorials, webinars, and casual chatting or business online meeting.
- 【The Accessory Package Includes】Made out of all metal construction external microphone stand. Sturdy and durable, a studio-grade streaming metal construction microphone.Premium 6.56’ USB cable. 5/8 inch male to 3/8 inch female mic thread screw adapter.A user manual and friendly Technical Support.
8
![Upgraded USB Microphone for Computer, Mic for Gaming, Podcast]()
- 【Plug & Play Design】 The TrophyRak TR-PRO-057 microphone is easy to connect with both Mac and Windows computer, no need any extra driver software or sound card. Please Notice: Not compatible with Xbox and Cellphone ends.
- 【Upgraded USB Mic Set】 TrophyRak TR-PRO-057 USB Microphone is the latest USB condenser microphone. With the latest sound field surround technology and noise reduction chip, the recording mic makes your voice more clear than ever before.
- 【Package List】 USB Mic * 1, Metal Shock Mount * 1, Scissor Arm Stand * 1, Desk Mount Clamp * 1, POP Filter * 1, Foam Mic Cover * 1, 1.5M USB A to B Cable * 1, User Manual * 1. We provide Easy-to-Reach customer support and 24/7 guidance. Order it Now with No Risk.
- 【User-Friendly Design】 With a convenient volume knob and Echo knob, TrophyRak USB recording microphone is much easier for you to use. Great for Gaming, Podcast, Live Streaming, YouTube on PC.
- 【Great Sound of Fidelity】 Equipped with a 16mm large diaphragm, wide frequency response (20Hz to 20KHz) and professional sound chipset, TrophyRak USB mic provides a perfect combination of clarity, warmth, extended dynamic range and high SPL capability. The cardioid condenser capsule enables the mic to capture pristine and accurate sound and cancel noise from surroundings, perfect for recording and communicating.
9
![USB Gaming Microphone, FIFINE RGB Dynamic Mic for PC]()
- Soft-touch mute button help you instantly mute the mic without audible noises to your streaming or podcasting. Built-in LED indicator will tell you working status even playing game in the dark. Big gain control offers fine tuning for the mic volume when you are in Twitch or Discord. Headphone jack provides monitoring function, and you can hear footsteps clearly during FPS games in real time.
- The straightforward USB plug-and-play microphone is compatible with Windows, Mac OS and Play Station Consoles. With high speed type-C (mic end) to type-A (computer end) connection, just plug it into your computer or game console then it go to work. USB-C connection is firm and tight, which will not interrupt intense game tactical discussions or emotional podcast recordings.
- Package Including: Dynamic Microphone*1, Shock Mount*1, Screw Adapter*1, Metal Ring*1, 8.2' USB Cable*1, Tripod Stand (bonus)*1, User's Manual*1
- The shock mount designed by circular frame can reduce the vibration caused by knocking keyboard or operating gamepad when you are gaming. A locking knob on it is for easy angle adjustment, but you must ensure that keep the top of mic facing sound source. Designed with acoustic transparent foam, windscreen reduces blasting sound when you speak. Audiences will enjoy the streaming with less noise.
- Unique RGB lights with rainbow colors can highlight exciting game atmosphere. The light reflected on the shock mount is not dazzling. If you live the same game as others, your streaming will be much better and attracts more viewers due to the appearance of RGB. You can turn on/off the RGB with the button at the back of the mic.
- Dynamic microphone capsule with 16 bit, 48kHz sampling rate enhances vocal intelligibility and voice reproduction. It ensures your sound resonates with audiences to boost streamer or podcaster popularity for you. Cardioid pattern focuses on the sound from the front of the mic top and minimizes ambient noises, like tower fan running or central air system, thus less audio processing for your podcasting. Tips: Keep the sound source in front of the top of mic. The best recording range is 2 to 4 in.
- [Upgraded Tech Produce Excellent Sound] What can 96KHz/24Bit sampling rate and 20Hz-20KHz wide frequency response do? The ZY-UA2, which owns these, can pick up wide nuances, provide recorder an ultra-clear capture and smooth recording, keep the treble clear and crisp, stable midrange, deep bass
- [High-end Microphone Bundle] You will get a package including a USB condenser microphone ZY-UA2, a USB-A to the type-C adapter, a USB cable, 4 cable tie, a metal shock mount, a pop filter, an anti-wind foam cap, an adjustable scissor boom arm, a desktop mounting clip, and a user manual. The ZY-UA2 will bring you unprecedented professionalism
- [Brand New Arm Set] The extended durable steel boom arm offers 360° rotation with no noise so that users can freely adjust the mic to their preferred position and find a suitable distance for recording. The larger area desktop clip can be stably used on a desk that does not exceed 2.4 inches/60 mm in thickness. 4 cable ties help users organizing cable easily, prevent entanglement
- [Multipurpose and Widely Compatible] The cardioid pickup pattern means effectively isolating background noise, only record the original sound in the cardioid range. So please face the ZINGYOU logo on the mic when doing some recording, PC gaming, podcasting, live streaming, voice-over, you will get an unexpected effect
- [Plug & Play USB Microphone Kit] ZINGYOU ZY-UA2 professional USB mic realizes simple and efficient settings. It's fully compatible with computers and laptops with Windows, macOS and Linux systems, no need for any additional driver software. We specially add a USB-A to the type-C adapter in the bundle instead of external sound card for some new model laptops which only have the type-C port, achieve true plug and play. Note: not compatible with Xbox
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
What to Look For in a best affordable mic for streaming?
Maximum Sound Pressure Level
This measurement is often expressed as decibels (dBs), and it is the highest volume the microphone can tolerate without distortion.
Type Of Microphone
The energy of sound waves is captured by microphones, which can then convert it into electricity in various ways. You can either use a condenser microphone or dynamic microphone to accomplish this.
Response Flatness
Although it might seem that flat responses are the best, a treble lift is sometimes an advantage. This applies especially to vocals. This can cause the PA system to become more sensitive to howling. The signal from speakers often gets in the microphone, creating a hissing sound. Many dynamic microphones have a treble lift, which lends itself to many vocals.
Attenuation Switch
Have you ever wondered what those switches at the back of Rode Videomic are for? Attenuation switches are the switches at the back. Attenuation switches on microphones reduce the output of the mic by a specific amount. This is usually between -10dB and -20dB. The microphone will become four to sixteen times more quiet than usual.
Frequency Response
The frequency response refers to the range of frequencies that a microphone can detect, usually 20hz-20Khz. Knowing the frequency range is not enough. What you need is the microphone's responsiveness to certain frequencies. Before you choose a microphone, think about the recording you are going to do. A microphone with a higher frequency, such as a dynamic microphone, may be better suited for recording bass, drums, and other musical instruments.
Impedance
This is measured in Ohms (symbol O) and refers to the microphone's ability to receive an audio signal or AC current. Mics with a low impedance (600O and lower) retain better audio quality when used on cables that are longer than 16 feet. High impedance signals that other microphone components may be of lower quality can sometimes indicate a low quality signal.
Connections
After you have chosen the mic type you prefer, it is time to think about how you will connect it to your system. There are two options: wireless or wired.
Traditional wired microphones transmit sound signals via a cable. They can be a hindrance to performers' movement, particularly during large productions. A wireless microphone is a good option if you need to be mobile. These wireless microphones use radio waves to transmit signals to the receiver.
Traditional wired microphones transmit sound signals via a cable. They can be a hindrance to performers' movement, particularly during large productions. A wireless microphone is a good option if you need to be mobile. These wireless microphones use radio waves to transmit signals to the receiver.
Polar Pattern/Directionality
Directionality is the way a microphone picks up sounds from its surroundings. One microphone can detect sound in all directions simultaneously. Most other microphones can only pick up one direction at a time. This can be advantageous depending on the circumstances.
FAQs
Which Microphone Is Recommended For Low Frequency Measurements?
Low frequency can be referred to as a relative term. The standard 1/2" condenser test microphones and the measurement grade microphones have an -3dB point between 1 Hz and 3 Hz. This is enough for most applications. Some specialty microphones can measure down to 0.1 Hz and exceed this limit.What Should I Do When My Miniature Microphone Gets Soaked In Water Or Sweat?
A microphone is best if it's not in contact with water. However, sweat can be a problem if the environment is professional. The microphone should be shaken to remove any water. It must then dry, perhaps near a heat source such as a radiator. Never use a hairdryer. After they have been sweat-filled, omni microphones should be rinsed in demineralized waters and dried.Does The Size Of A Microphone Impact Its Frequency And Dynamic Range?
It is important to consider the size and sensitivity of your microphone. Microphones of smaller dimensions and higher sensitivity are more capable of measuring high amplitudes or frequencies. However, microphones with a larger diameter or more sensitive can measure higher frequencies and have lower noise floors.What Is The Noise Floor Of A Microphone?
The cartridge thermal noise specification defines the microphone's noise floor. Important to remember that preamplifier noise can have an impact on the mic and preamplifier combo's noise floor. You can also measure the sound pressure by limiting other components of the measurement chain like power supplies or data acquisition systems.What Is A Polar Plot And How Is It Used?
Polar plots, also known as beam patterns, show an angular dependence on the sound pressure measured by the microphone. A polar plot shows how sound pressure levels are affected by different angles of incidence. The typical angle of incidence is a 180-degree arc, with the microphone in the middle. As you move away from the centre, your pressure amplitude will decrease. The frequency dependence of measured sound pressure is not shown in polar plots. They are only obtained at one frequency. Because the pattern of the beam will vary at different frequencies, it is important to specify the measurement frequency with polar data.What Microphone Is Recommended For Determining The Direction Or Noise Source Location Of Sound?
Multiple free-field microphones, placed in predefined patterns and combined with appropriate software allow spatial transformations of complex sound pressure fields to be projected to map the acoustic energy flows. Because of their general value and matching phase specifications, array microphones make a great choice for large-channel count acoustic testing. Because they allow the user to identify specific microphones quickly and easily, Transducer Electronic Data Sheets (TEDS), are highly recommended.Which Levels Can The Microphone Handle?
A microphone's dynamic range is the difference between its lowest and highest levels.It is not just a function the microphone, but the preamplifier that goes with it. A microphone's dynamic range is directly related to its sensitivities.
How Do I Clean My Miniature Microphone Cable From Tape Remains?
Over time, residue from glue and tape can etch the cable making it less able to withstand braking. Organic oil can be used to clean the cable (e.g. Olive oil and lukewarm warm water can be used to clean the cable. Ecotech2 Multidegreaser by Finish Line has been reported to have good results.We decide facts since we are product consulting professionals with extensive expertise. Even so, we maintain and update the list of best affordable mic for streaming so the information is correct and up to date.
After reading this article, you should discover that selecting a best affordable mic for streaming that is both handy and economical to you is not difficult. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you require assistance.
READ NEXT: The Easiest To Use Mp3 Players For 2024
About Harlan Ellison
