The 10 Best Mic For Headphones, Tested And Researched

Dan Simmons By, Dan Simmons
Updated
Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording & Streaming on PC and Mac,
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording & Streaming on PC and Mac,

The highly-regarded Blue Yeti USB mic is finally yours to buy. With four different pickup patterns, and with the ability to record in ways that would normally require multiple mics, it's no wonder this mic has been recommended by sound engineers for professional recording. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: FIFINE USB Podcast Microphone for Recording Streaming

The FIFINE USB Podcast Microphone is a professional and affordable podcast mic with easy-to-use controls that provide direct, latency-free monitoring anywhere. Read Review

3. Best Convenient: Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording & Streaming on PC and Mac

The Blue Yeti USB Mic is a professional quality microphone that can record almost any situation with crystal clear precision. With a tri-capsule array, this mic is perfect for recording vocals, musical instruments, podcasting, voiceovers, interviews and more. Read Review

4. Best Easy To Use: USB Microphone - AUDIOPRO Computer Condenser Gaming Mic

With the AUDIOPRO Computer Condenser Gaming Mic, you can record sound more comfortably and with less background noise. This microphone's 3.5mm headphone output provides direct, latency-free monitoring, while its quick mute functionality is handy for gamers who want to monitor their own voice with a built-in LED light to indicate the working status. Read Review

5. Best Smart Control: USB Computer Microphone with Noise Cancelling/Mute Button/Headphone

This USB Supercardioid Condenser Microphone was designed with the professional sound chip-set and 16mm electret condenser transducer, no microphone background noise. The 16bit which can pick up clear human voice, very suitable for online chatting, game exchange, online teaching, online meeting, etc. Read Review

A microphone is essential to a recording setup, whether you’re a professional sound engineer or a casual home recordist. While most recording software comes with built-in microphones that are good enough for everyday use, they won’t be able to capture every subtlety in your audio as well as real studio microphones. For serious projects, investing in a high-quality mic and suitable headphones can make all the difference between a mediocre final product and something truly remarkable. Listeners love quality but don’t always know when they hear it. When you’re putting together your home recording setup, it pays to double-check that everything is up to par. That means ensuring that you have the best mic for your headphones so that you can be sure of capturing clear audio every time you record. Here are some valuable tips on how to find the perfect mic for headphones in your home recording setup.

Following extensive study and analysis, we've come up with the Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording & Streaming on PC and Mac,, which we hope will meet your demands thanks to four different pickup patterns. However, it is not the only thing on our list. We also show a complete buyer's guide; many other options are available to help you find the most suitable.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording & Streaming on PC and Mac,
Our Score:
9.8
Blue Microphones
  • 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.
  • Four Pickup Patterns: Flexible cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns allow you to record in ways that would normally require multiple mics.
  • 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.
  • Custom Three-Capsule Array: Produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for YouTube, game streaming, podcasting, Zoom calls and music.
  • Plug 'n Play on Mac and PC: Instantly start recording and streaming on Mac or PC.
TOP Choice #2 FIFINE USB Podcast Microphone for Recording Streaming
Our Score:
9.6
FIFINE
  • 【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.
  • 【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.
  • 【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.
  • Multiple pattern selection - cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional & stereo
  • Tri-capsule array - 3 condenser capsules can record almost any situation
  • Compatible with Windows 10, Windows 8 (including 8.1), Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP (Home and Professional), and Mac OS X (10.4.11 or higher), and requires a minimum of 64 MB of RAM(remove existing and upload)
  • Perfect for vocals, musical instruments, podcasting, voiceovers, interviews, field recordings, conference calls
  • Gain control, mute button, zero-latency headphone output
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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!
  • 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.
  • 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).
  • Mute Button And Headphone Jack: ◆There Is A 3.5mm Headphone Jack At The Bottom Of The Microphone, You Can Use Headphones To Monitor The Sound And Control The Volume Through The Sound Control Knob On The Microphone. ◆One-Key Mute, Click The Microphone Indicator Button To One-Key Mute, The Led Ring Turns Red.
  • Noise Cancelling Usb Microphone: ◆The Microphone Built-In A Noise Cancelling Control Unit And Supercardioid Microphone Core, You Just Need To Long Press The Microphone Mute Button(The Indicator Light Turns To Lemon Yellow), Significantly Eliminate The Surrounding White Noise, Keyboard And Mouse Sound, Sound Of Cars Outside The Window, Microphone Noise, Other Noise Around, Etc, Make Your Voice Clearer.
  • Microphone With Metal Stand: ◆The Microphone Base Is a Very Heavy Round Metal Base, Not Roll Over, Very Safe. Can Be Rotated 360°, And Can Be Tilted 20° Left And Right, Which Is Convenient To Adjust To a Suitable Angle For Recording. ◆A 3/8" Nut At The Bottom Of The Microphone Can Be Used With A Normal Bracket Arm. ◆We Provide 1-Year Warranty Service, Please Feel Free To Contact Us.
  • Plug And Play Usb Microphone: ◆The Microphone Has 59 Inch(1.5m)Usb Cable And The Microphone Will Automatically Install The Driver, Don'T Need 48v Phantom Power. Compatible Windows 7/8/10, Mac Os, Ps4, Use For Gaming, Skype, Podcast, Zoom, Youtube, Recording Streaming, Google Meeting Etc.
  • 16mm 16 Bit Condenser Vocal Microphone: ◆This Usb Supercardioid Condenser Microphone Was Designed With The Professional Sound Chip-Set And 16mm Electret Condenser Transducer, No Microphone Background Noise. 16 Bit, Which Can Pick Up Clear Human Voice, Very Suitable For Online Chat, Game Exchange, Online Teaching, Online Meeting, Etc.
  • PACKAGE LIST AND WARRANTY: Wired Headphones+Condenser Mic + Adjustable Scissor Arm Stand + Metal Shock Mount + Pop Filter + Foam Mic Windscreen + Table Mounting Clamp + USB-B to USB-A Cable+3.5mm to 6.35mm Adapter. MAONO products provide 12-Month warranty to ensure a better shopping experience!
  • PLUG and PLAY: The microphone has USB 2.0 data port which is easy to connect with your computer and Linux operation system, and no need extra driver software, and no need for an external sound card. Double shielding USB cable reduces interference. That makes it easy to sound good on a podcast, livestream, video call, or most any other kind of recording
  • 16mm ELECTRET CONDENSER TRANSDUCER & MAGNET RING: With the 16mm electret condenser transducer, the USB microphone can give you a strong bass response. This professional condenser microphone picks up crystal clear audio. The magnet ring, on the USB microphone cable, has a strong anti-interference function, which makes you have a better feel
  • Upgraded Version with More Functions: PROFESSIONAL SOUND CHIPSET: Designed with professional sound chipset, which lets it hold a high-resolution sampling rate. SAMPLING RATE: 192kHz/24bit!!! The smooth, flat frequency response of 30Hz-16kHz--Extended frequency response is excellent for singing, speech and Voice over. ONE-KEY MUTE/UNMUTE AND LED INDICATOR: Green: Working, Red: Mute. POWERFUL HEADPHONE JACK for zero-latency monitoring.
  • Equipped with Studio Headphones: Proprietary 50mm large-aperture drivers and deep, accurate bass response bring you a treat of your ear. Advanced active noise reduction technology makes you focus on what you want to hear. Foldable, flexible and skin texture design, more durability and comfort! What's more, MAONO provides one more adapter(3.5mm to 6.35mm plug), which you can connect to a mixer, Meet your more needs!
  • 【DURABLE AND PORTALBE】 Solid-built recording microphone with blue LED for connection status comes with aluminum alloy body, tripod & rotatable stand with folding legs for secure & easy desk use. 2-year extended warranty with email registration.
  • 【Plug and Play Operation】 Vocal microphone delivers easy setup with full compatibility on windows and Mac computers without external power supply & driver required. Good for sound recording, streaming, voiceover with low background noise.
  • 【16MM LARGE DIAPHGRAM】 USB microphone with unidirectional polar pattern delivers accurate & pristine pickup, capturing wide frequency range content with clear & comfortable sound with low noise. Ideal for gaming, YouTube video, podcasting, singing, vice works.
  • 【DETACHABLE & PLUGGABLE】 Pluggable USB cable with double shielding & anti-inference magnetic ring ensures high-speed signal transmission without loss. Detachable cable & tripod stand ideal for desktop use.
  • 【HEADPHONE OUTPUT MONITORING】 Condenser microphone with 3.5MM earphone Jack allows you to monitor real time recording at desired volume level without latency delays, well suited for recording & podcasting, gaming, online chatting.
  • Real Plug and Play: Compared to the normal USB mic, VM50 is built in a complete plug and play technology without any driver and HUB. Besides, the brand-new designed USB-C to USB A/C cable makes it easier to work with most devices and systems, such as Mac, PS4, PS5, Windows PC, laptop,etc. Ideal for gaming, recording, live-streaming, youtube video, podcasting and so on.
  • What You Get: 1 x Condenser microphone, 1 x Shock mount, 1 x Pop filter, 1 x Base, 1 x USB-C to USB A/C cable, 1 x Manual. All accessories come in one package, which makes VM50 to be your most secure choice.
  • Multi-Function and Convenience: The VM50 USB mic is equipped with all features you need: no-latency monitoring, quick mute button, volume control and indicator. With the convenient design, VM50 will be your first choice and meets different occasions needed.
  • Heavy Duty Design: The full unit is made of metal materials for better durability. With the upgraded metal shock mount and pop filter, the all-in-one design helps to minimize the background noise for the best pick-up on the basis of the excellent sound quality.
  • Warm Sound with Low Noise: The VM50 USB mic adopts the cardioid pickup pattern, which effectively picks up the voice from the front as well as minimizes the voice from the behind. With a newly-designed microphone circuit, the mic performs perfectly in reproducing sound and ensures your exquisite sound reproduces on the internet.
  • PROFESSIONAL SOUND CHIPSET 192KHZ/24BIT: MAONO PM401 USB Condenser Microphone has been designed with Dia.16MM mic capsule and professional sound chipset, which let the USB microphone hold high-resolution sampling rate. The microphone picks up sounds of different frequencies very well. Reproduce your sound perfectly to prevent distortion. Cardioid pick-up can effectively reduce background noise interferences to ensure you can record more perfect recordings. Perfect for project/home-studio
  • QUICKLY MUTE BUTTON AND 3.5MM HEADPHONES JACK: One-key mute/unmute microphone, which can indicate when the podcast microphone is active to speak. The built-in LED indicator to tell you about the working status(Green Light: Working, Red Light: Mute). Powerful headphone jack feature for zero-latency monitoring. Perfect for video recording, podcasting, gaming, youtube, skype and so on
  • PLUG AND PLAY: No need extra driver software, and no need for an external sound card, You only need to set the microphone as the default input device for your computer. High compatible with Windows, MAC OS, PS4(Not compatible with Xbox)
  • PACKAGE LIST AND 12-MONTH WARRANTY: 1x USB Condenser Microphone, 1x Adjustable Scissor Arm Stand, 1x Metal Shock Mount, 1x Pop Filte, 1x Foam Mic Windscreen, 1x Table Mounting Clamp, 1x USB-B to USB-A Cable. MAONO products provide a 12-Month warranty to ensure a better shopping experience
  • STURDY BOOM ARM SET: The extra strong arm stand prevents the microphone from accidental dropping, noise generation and shaking. Metal shock mount holds the computer microphone steady, which avoids the negative effects of constant movement and vibrations. It has a table mounting clamp and protective layers of sponge. An adjustable positioning screw can easily clip on any desktop with a thickness of 2". Pop filter and foam windscreen remove the rush of air caused by vocal plosives
  • USEFUL FEATURES - Gain control, mute button and LED indicator on the podcast usb mic is easy to use and handy. And the mic with headphone jack allows you to monitor your voice in real time mixed with the sound from your computer. Instant listening to make sure your streams sound great.
  • EVERYTHING IS INCLUDED - All-metal studio usb microphone in matte black, pop filter, shock mount, boom arm, table mount, 6.6ft USB-B to USB A/C cable and user manual with guide video. Great fit for the home studio that you’re looking to build. The gaming pc mic also comes with friendly tech support to ensure better experience.
  • ADJUSTABLE ARM STAND - The pc microphone with stand is sturdy and easily swivels in any orientation. The mic and accessories will not going to get in your way to have a successful podcast, and less likely to pick up thumps from desktop or keyboard. You could tightly mount the condenser recording microphone to your desk or table that is up to 2in thick.
  • IMPROVED EXPERIENCE - The cardioid streaming mic with pop filter is excellent to eliminate background noise and pick up a clean tone in your voice. Benefits from the premium mic capsule and the wide response range, the usb vocal mic offers a good balance of bass and treble which will keep the sound natural and true to life. Perfect for podcasting, streaming game, YouTube productions, zoom meetings and chatting on discord.
  • PLUG & PLAY - Compatible with Mac, PS4 and Windows PC laptop. No phantom power is required. No adapter is needed to use the usb microphone for computer that has only type C port. You can instantly start recording and streaming with this USB C microphone. 6.6ft USB cable is long enough for PC-setup users. (◆◆Incompatible with Xbox◆◆)
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What Factors Should You Consider While Choosing best mic for headphones?

Getting to the best decision for a product purchase may take a bit of time. In a nutshell, we're available to serve you with your product problems at all hours of the day and night!

You can rest assured if you consider the following points before selecting best mic for headphones:

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.

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.

Maximum Sound Pressure Level

This measurement is often expressed as decibels (dBs), and it is the highest volume the microphone can tolerate without distortion.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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.

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 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.

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.

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 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.

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About Dan Simmons

Dan Simmons

Dan Simmons is a writer who loves home theater and HiFi audio. As the editor of TheAudioInsights, he has helped countless people enjoy the best possible sound quality in their homes. He is an audiophile who takes great pleasure in helping others find the perfect audio equipment for their needs. When he's not writing or editing, Dan enjoys listening to music and spending time with his family.