The Best Affordable Streaming Mic In 2024
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: HyperX QuadCast - USB Condenser Gaming Microphone
The HyperX QuadCast is a professional-grade USB microphone that features a convenient gain control adjustment for podcasts, gaming and singing. With the included mount adapter, you can attach this mic to any surface so it's always in the right place at the right time. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: USB Microphone - AUDIOPRO Computer Condenser Gaming Mic
This Bluetooth mic is designed with a cardioid pickup pattern to capture clear, smooth, crisp sound and suppress unwanted background noise. With a sample rate up to 192kHz/24bit, this professional microphone is great for presentations, podcasts, and Zoom. This sleek mic has a built-in stand that makes it easy to mount on your desk and includes an adjustable pop filter and USB cable. Read Review
3. Best Design: Logitech for Creators Blue Yeti USB Microphone
The Blue Yeti USB microphone is the perfect balance of performance and price. With four pickup patterns, flexible cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns allow you to record great quality audio in a variety of ways. A positionable design allows for optimal positioning of your voice for podcasts or vocals. Read Review
4. Best Performance: Elgato Wave:3 Premium USB Condenser Microphone
Advanced USB 3.0 technology and premium audio quality come together in the Elgato Wave:3 condenser microphone. With up to 24-bit / 96kHz analog to digital conversion, this microphone delivers lush detail in every sound. You can even connect up to seven other audio sources with the Wave Link app and create two independent mixes. Read Review
Streaming audio and video is the new norm for both podcasters and live broadcasters. If you are looking for an affordable yet reliable livestreaming microphone, then you’ve come to the right place!
In this post, we’ll discuss about some of the best affordable streaming microphones available today. These are perfect if you want to record podcasts, voice overs or stream live events from your laptop or smartphone without breaking the bank.
After spending 16 hours researching and assessing, our specialists have identified the models that would best meet your needs, particularly HyperX QuadCast - USB Condenser Gaming Microphone. We've put up a buying guide as well as additional good alternatives to help you find the perfect one.
RELATED: We Did The Research For You. Read Our In-Depth Guide for the best pc microphone for streaming of 2024. Low Prices, Top Models & Expert Support.
Our Top Picks
TOP Choice #1
![HyperX QuadCast - USB Condenser Gaming Microphone]()
- Mount adapter included
- Multi device and chat program compatibility
- Four selectable polar patterns
- Tap to mute sensor with LED indicator
- Convenient gain control adjustment
- Anti-vibration shock mount
- PLUG AND PLAY: Compatible with Mac, PS4/5 and Windows PC computer laptop that has USB-A or USB-C port. No extra driver is required, it also compatible with Android Phone (Type-C Port).
- WHAT YOU GET: Microphone with Desk Stand x1, USB Cable (5.6ft) x1, Type-C Cable (5.6ft) x1, Pop Filter x1, Conversion Adapter x1, User Manual x1, Quick Guide x1.We provide 24hr Professional Customer Service. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
- ONBOARD AUDIO CONTROLS: Sensitive mic gain and volume knobs allow you to adjust the appropriate volume at will to record sound more comfortably. This gaming microphone's 3.5mm headphone output provides direct, latency-free monitoring. The quick mute functionality is very handy for users, with built-in LED light to indicate the working status.
- EXCELLENT SOUND QUALITY: This podcast microphone has a cardioid pickup pattern, allowing it to capture the clear, smooth, crisp sound and suppress unwanted background noise. Supports sample rates up to 192kHz/24bit, Great for presentations, podcasts, Zoom, Skype, Recordings,YouTube, instant messaging, gaming, and streaming on Twitch.
- EASY INSTALLATION & VERSATILITY: Without any assembly, you can use this microphone by simply plugging in a USB cable. You can use the included 5/8" male to 3/8" female adapter to install the mic on a standard boom arm. It also comes with a well-fitted pop filter , for no additional cost!
TOP Choice #3
![Logitech for Creators Blue Yeti USB Microphone]()
- Positionable design: Pivot the mic in relation to the sound source to optimize your sound quality thanks to the adjustable desktop stand and track your voice in real time with no-latency monitoring
- Blue VO!CE software: Elevate your streamings and recordings with clear broadcast vocal sound and entertain your audience with enhanced effects, advanced modulation and HD audio samples
- Custom three-capsule array: This professional USB mic produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for YouTube videos, Twitch game streaming, podcasting, Zoom meetings, music recording and more
- Plug 'n Play: Set up the computer microphone in seconds with the included desktop stand or connect directly to a mic stand or boom arm and instantly start recording and streaming on Mac or PC
- Four pickup patterns: Flexible cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns allow you to record in ways that would normally require multiple mics, for vocals, instruments and podcasts
- Onboard audio controls: Headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and mic gain put you in charge of every level of the audio recording and streaming process
- Condenser capsule with a tight cardioid polar pattern captures speech with precision
- Proprietary Clipguard technology makes distortion virtually impossible
- Use the Wave Link app to control Wave: 3 and up to seven other audio sources, plus create two independent mixes
- Superior circuitry ensures seamless audio signal transmission
- Up to 24-bit / 96kHz analog to digital conversion delivers lush detail
5
![FIFINE USB Gaming Microphone Kit, Plug & Play for PC]()
- Effective Accessories-With wide extensibility, the boom arm is great for gamers who have various items on desk. You can pull it near by your mouth when in use, or fold it away to save more space. Shock mount is attached on the mic and will not loosen, further reducing machine noises and vibrations caused by gaming. External detachable pop filter can reduce popping noise but not block the computer game screen.
- Easier Function Use-Setting the touch-mute button on the top, you can easily tap it with one hand to mute, instead of holding the mic to press a button. Quick mute will not affect your keyboard operation, nor making a ticking sound. The big volume knob at the bottom makes fine-tuning easier, and you can adjust the volume at any time, but not leave your sights from the game screen.
- Right Out-of-the-Box-It is a plug-and-play USB microphone set, no need additional plug-ins or complicated device setup steps, which is compatible with Windows, Mac and PS4/5. The microphone end is type-c interface, which is reversible, no trouble to plug the right way in dim game atmosphere. The 8.3ft (2.5m) USB cable is long enough to extend from behind the host to the desktop for audio recording.
- Cool Lighting Design-Two-tone automatic gradient RGB makes your microphone icing on the cake. With soft and coordinated light effects, your game video or live streaming will be more eye-catching. Make your channel stand out from ranking list. If you just a game player, the rich RGB matching with your flowing colors computer accessories can meet the needs of more game atmosphere.
- Warm Tips-Will need the USB C to USB A adapter to plug the mic into the Mac if it has only USB C input. The microphone stand can mount tightly to the desk up to 2” thick.
- Original Sound Reproduction-Working with 192kHZ high sampling rate, A6T can better achieve reproduction of original vocal, which make it sound like you and your teammates are playing in the same room. Cardioid condenser microphone is sensitive to pick up and owns high recognize to the front voice. It is very suitable for tactical games to effectively improve communication with teammates.
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![USB Microphone, TONOR Cardioid Condenser Computer PC Mic]()
- 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.
- 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.
- Exceptional Anti-vibration: The upgraded concealed shock mount can effectively reduce the noise caused by the mouse, keyboard, radiator or touch of the microphone.
- Easy to Install: Without any assembly, only need to attach the pop filter to the mic tripod, then it can be plug and play.
- Ultra-Precise Supercardioid Pickup Pattern: The Razer Seiren Mini is tuned with a tighter pickup angle, so it can focus on your voice while ensuring that background noises like typing and mouse clicks don’t get picked up.
- Heavy-Duty Tilting Stand: Sitting on a sturdy support, the mic can be angled to find the perfect sweetspot for your voice. It can also be detached and mounted on a boom arm or mic stand that uses a standard 5,8-inch thread.
- Connectivity technology: USB
- Ultra-Compact Build: Made for minimalist or smaller setups, it barely takes up any desk space and is discreet on-camera, putting more focus on you. Easy to bring along if you need take your streaming elsewhere.
- Professional Recording Quality: With its 14mm condenser capsule and flat frequency response, the mic broadcasts your voice with stellar clarity that’s filled with crisp highs and deep lows.
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![Logitech for Creators Blue Yeti X USB Microphone for PC]()
- High-Res Led Metering – Visualize Your Voice Level At A Glance And Adjust Up Or Down For Powerful, Broadcast Quality Sound
- Four-Capsule Array – Capture Legendary Blue Broadcast Sound With Greater Focus And Clarity Than Ever For Professional Streaming, Podcasting And Youtube
- Multi-Function Smart Knob – Fine-Tune Your On-Stream Sound With Easy-Access Controls For Mic Gain, Mute, Headphone Volume And Blend
- 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.
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![Gaming USB Microphone for PC PS5, FIFINE Condenser Mic]()
- Useful Accessories - Rubber elastic bands are firmly clamped on the shock mount, which will reduce vibration noise caused by violently knocking keyboard and clicking mouse. Detachable pop filter is tightly clipped on shock mount and will not fall off. It can eliminate pops sound produced by your exciting words during game. Tripod stand with rubber feet avoids microphone moving when you hit the desktop in the intense game.
- Vivid Voice Enjoyment - Designed for microphone gamer, the gaming mic offers sampling rate of 192kHZ, presenting real sound. Make it sound like you and your teammates are playing side by side. Cardioid condenser microphone sensitively picks up the front sound. Your friends can clearly hear your call no matter it is PS5 or PC gaming, making it easier to get champion.
- Gradient RGB & Quick Mute - With bicolored lighting, RGB alter seven color modes by itself in a gradient way. It adds carnival atmosphere with light-up computer setups, putting you in the fierce game arena. Quick mute button at the top is handy to touch. Even when you concentrate on the game, you can immediately mute your mic. RGB is off when the mic is muted to tell you working status. Prevent your streaming from accidents caused by forgetting to mute mic.
- Convenient Installation - This plug-and-play desktop gaming microphone is compatible with PS4/4pro/5 and PC. You can quickly enter game chat. USB cable can be tightly connected to type-c socket on the mic. During high stress games, you will not suffer game chat interruption anymore. The 6.6ft-long detachable USB cable can extend from the back of computer host to your mic body without restriction.
- Handily Use - Gain knob at the bottom is quick to access. If game sound affects your voice, you can instantly adjust microphone volume instead of shouting to your teammates or lowering your own voice. Thumbscrew on shock mount helps you tilt the best streaming recording angle in advance, which allows you to get a pleasant speaking posture during games or streaming.
- Product Includes - Mic with Shock Mount and Pop Filter*1, Tripod Stand*1, 6.6 feet USB Cable*1, User's Manual*1.
- 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!
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
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What to Look For in a best affordable streaming mic?
Looking for the best affordable streaming mic requires consideration of many criteria. Product learning varies in type, feature, and customer ranking. Overall, it comes with several difficulties in buying. So, we are available to support you occasionally.
It is beneficial for you to have a closer look at the things below to evaluate and then choose which one is suitable:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.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.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.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.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 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.READ NEXT: The 10 Best Tablet 13 Inch Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts
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