The Best Voice Recording Microphone For 2024

William Shatner By, William Shatner
Updated
TONOR Computer Cardioid Condenser PC Gaming Mic
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: TONOR Computer Cardioid Condenser PC Gaming Mic

The TONOR Computer Cardioid Condenser PC Gaming Mic is a USB 2.0 plug and play microphone that is ideal for conference, distance learning, streaming, chatting, podcasting, recording, Zoom, Skype, YouTube video or any other audio related application. This microphone comes with no assembly required and features a three-legged stand that can be adjusted to fit your preferences. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Logitech Blue Yeti Game Streaming Kit

Logitech’s new Blue Yeti Game Streaming Kit is a great new feature for gamers and streamers who want to get the most of their broadcasts. With this kit, you get a custom Blue Yeti microphone pop filter, an internal Blue Yeti shock mount, and a pair of High Fidelity Pro headphones. The setup is simple - just plug the headset into your PC or Mac to set up your audio in seconds. Read Review

3. Best Efficient: FIFINE Studio Condenser USB Microphone Computer PC Microphone Kit

With the FIFINE Studio Condenser USB microphone, you can record your voice with professional quality. This versatile and sturdy broadcast suspension boom scissor arm gives you great tools for capturing your voice in a podcast or voiceover. The Double Pop Filter provides two layers of dissipation, removes the rush of air caused by vocal plosives, minimizing the popping sounds that can compromise your recording is great for studio as well as home use. Read Review

4. Best Performance: TONOR Cardioid Condenser Computer PC Mic

Never worry about your mic not being compatible with your device again! The TONOR Cardioid Condenser Computer PC Mic is compatible with Macs, PCs, PS4 and iPad (an adapter is required), not compatible with Phones and Xbox. This microphone's design is sleek and stylish, it's lightweight and portable. It can easily be installed without any assembly, just need to attach the pop filter to the mic tripod and it will automatically be plug-and-play. Read Review

Voice recording is perhaps one of the most important things when it comes to producing quality podcasts, blog posts, and audio recordings. Whether you are just starting out or a seasoned podcaster looking to get better, a great microphone is key. A good voice recording microphone will make all the difference in your podcast production.

An excellent voice recording mic can elevate your voice so that listeners can instantly identify with what you are saying and tune in to listen more intently. It’s why so many people are turning to mics these days as there are so many options available now. With that in mind, we put together this list of the best voice recording microphones on the market to help you find the right one for your needs and budget.

You are strongly encouraged to pay close attention to the TONOR Computer Cardioid Condenser PC Gaming Mic as our top product. Or you can check the Logitech Blue Yeti Game Streaming Kit as the other great option, even if the first option didn't meet all of your requirements.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 TONOR Computer Cardioid Condenser PC Gaming Mic
Our Score:
9.9
TONOR
  • 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.)
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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).
  • 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.
TOP Choice #2 Logitech Blue Yeti Game Streaming Kit
Our Score:
9.7
Logitech for Creators
  • Advanced Voice Modulation: From Electrobeast to Helium Chipmunk, the podcasting microphone can alter, morph and transform your voice to excite and entertain your stream audience
  • Blue Yeti USB Gaming Microphone: Take your gaming to the ultimate level with this Blue Yeti bundle—featuring the iconic mic that has powered top gamers for years
  • Internal Blue Yeti Shockmount: This cardioid microphone’s groundbreaking three-capsule array is isolated by an internal shockmount to help ensure clean, articulate sound
  • Exclusive Streamlabs Themes: Give your game stream a custom look with three exclusive downloadable Streamlabs themes; unlock code included with this streaming kit for gaming
  • HD Audio Samples: Use the Blue Yeti USB microphone to accentuate your content, set an ambient vibe or make your audience laugh with the included treasure trove of HD audio samples
  • Custom Blue Yeti Pop Filter: Keep your stream clean with the included custom Blue Yeti microphone pop filter
  • Blue VO!CE Effects: Yeti USB condenser microphone improves your sound and stream with fun vocal effects, HD samples, and studio tools like EQ, limiter and Noise Removal, powered by NVIDIA Broadcast*
  • PlayStation Compatible: Use Yeti as your PS4 mic or PS5 mic for an instant audio upgrade
  • 🎤【The Accessory Package Includes】The scissor arm stand is made out of all steel construction, sturdy and durable, a studio-grade shock mount, a double pop filter, premium 8.2' USB cable, a microphone for podcast recording, a user manual and friendly Technical Support.
  • 🎤【Easy to Attach】The streaming microphone adjustable boom studio scissor Arm Stand features a heavy-duty combo mount that consists of a sturdy C-clamp and a detachable desktop mount. With 13" fixed horizontal arm and offers a 30" reach. The low-profile, table-hugging design allows on-air talent to perform without facial obstruction to record podcasts or make dubbing sounds for videos, use voice chat in online games or doing business on Skype.
  • 🎤【USB Output】Enables simple setup. USB Microphone Kit provide a direct convenient plug-and-play connection to pc and laptop without any additional hardware for recording vocals, podcasts and Skype. It's never been easier to get high-quality sound for your voice and computer-based audio recordings. (◆◆Incompatible with Xbox and Phones◆◆)
  • 🎤【Excellent Sound Quality】With rugged construction for durable performance, the vocal microphone offers a wide frequency response and handles high SPLs with ease. Ideal for project/home-studio applications. The cardioid condenser capsule offers crystal-clear audio for communicating, creating and recording. Comes ready to go with a desktop mic stand and 2.5M USB cable, you're guaranteed to get great-sounding results.
  • 🎤【Durable Arm Set】Studio Microphone with versatile and sturdy broadcast suspension boom scissor arm gives you great tools for capturing your voice in a podcast or voiceover. The Double Pop Filter provides two layers of dissipation, removes the rush of air caused by vocal plosives, minimizing the popping sounds that can compromise your recording is great for studio as well as home use.
  • 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.
5 MAONO 192KHZ/24Bit Plug & Play
Our Score:
9.1
MAONO
  • 【Compatible With MOST OS】: For all Laptop, PC and Mobile phones. But if you want connect with phone, you need an OTG adapter (not included). Strong output, no distortion, low power consumption. PACKING LIST: Condenser Mic + Adjustable Scissor Arm Stand + Metal Shock Mount + Pop Filter + Foam Mic Windscreen + Table Mounting Clamp + USB-B to USB-A Cable.
  • 【Professional Sound Chipset 192kHz/24Bit】: This Condenser Microphone has been designed with professional sound chipset, which let the USB microphone hold high resolution sampling rate. SAMPLING RATE: 192kHz/24bit!!! Smooth, flat frequency response of 30Hz-16kHz--Extended frequency response is excellent for singing, speech and Voice over, Performed perfectly in reproduces sound, high quality mic ensure your exquisite sound reproduces on the internet.
  • 【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, have a strong anti-interference function, which makes you have a better feel.
  • 【Sturdy Boom Arm Set】: With a pop filter and a foam windscreen, the condenser mic records your voice and the sound is crystal clear, the shock mount holds the microphone steady with damping function. Particularly good for video voiceovers; podcasts; YouTube video; skype conferences and so on.
6 FIFINE USB Podcast Microphone
Our Score:
9.0
FIFINE
  • 【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◆◆
  • 【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.
  • 【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.
  • 【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.
  • 【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.
7 Blue Yeti USB Mic
Our Score:
8.9
Logitech for Creators
  • 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)
  • Gain control, mute button, zero-latency headphone output
  • NOTE: Kindly refer the Instructional Video from the Image Section and User Manual from the Technical Specification before use which is highly recommended.
  • Multiple pattern selection - cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional & stereo
  • Perfect for vocals, musical instruments, podcasting, voiceovers, interviews, field recordings, conference calls
8 MAONO Cardioid Condenser Mic
Our Score:
8.7
MAONO
  • Build-in Strong Technical Support: Unique designed audio circuitry focuses on your voice or instrument while minimizing the sound of the room. Perfect restoration of vocals and instruments, like piano, violin, cello, cymbals, trumpet, saxophone, voiceover.
  • Full Metal Desktop Stand: A metal base with a non-slip design has a certain anti-shock effect. 360° Flex the microphone to the position you want and then turn the screw to easily fix the angle. A 3/8" nut at the bottom of the microphone can be used with a boom arm.
  • Clear Sound: Cardioid polar patterns focus on what you want to record, Start live streaming, podcasting, computer gaming, zoom meetings, and more with this external microphone right now.
  • Volume Control: Two adjustment buttons make it easy to adjust the headphone volume and microphone gain. Particular suitable for voiceovers, youtube, skype, twitch, and so on.
  • Package Content and Warranty: 1* Microphone, 1* Type C-USB Cable, 1* Detachable metal desktop stand, 1* User manual. MAONO Microphone provides a 2-year extended warranty
  • Headphone Output: Plugin headphones into the 3.5mm jack to listen to what you're recording in real-time, Adjust the quality of your recordings at any time.
  • Quick Mute Control: The quick mute button is very handy for live streaming with a built-in LED light indicating the working status (Green: Active, Red: Mute).
  • Plug and Play: Easy to set up and compatible with Windows/Mac/PS4/PC/computer/laptop. Connect to the computer using the provided USB cable. No need for any other drivers and sound cards.
9 TONOR USB Microphone Kit
Our Score:
8.6
TONOR
  • What You Get: 1 x high-quality metal microphone, 1 x premium boom arm, 1 x sturdy desk clamp, 1 x upgraded shock mount, 1 x pop filter, 4 x cable ties and 1 x 2m USB A to USB B cable
  • Multi-Function Knob: Turn the knob left and right to adjust the volume, press to mute. The knob's built-in LED indicator informs the working status (blue light on: working, blue light off: mute).
  • No-Latency Monitoring: Monitor your voice in real-time by the headphone output to make sure your streams sound great during recording or live streaming.
  • Plug and Play: TC40 is plug and play on Desktop/Laptop/PS4/PS5, no additional driver is required. Suitable for streaming, podcasting, gaming, voice over, etc. (Note: Not compatible with Xbox.)
  • Outstanding Sound Quality: The cardioid pickup pattern can achieve better recordings and effectively reduce background noise. The high sampling rate(192kHz/24Bit), wide frequency response, and high sound pressure level enable the mic to obtain more real and delicate sound.
  • Voice effects processing onboard with 8 professionally-crafted and easy-to-use presets. Choose from presets such as: Broadcast, Female Vocal, Space Overlord, Screamer, Slap Echo, Android, AM Radio, as well as standard Reverb and Delay. 8 Additional Preset slots available so you can create your own sounds.
  • Included DAW Recording Software – Studio One Artist and Ableton Live Lite
  • 6-in/6-out audio interface | 1 dedicated microphone stream for analog recording | 2 dedicated output for headphone monitoring | 4-in/4-out virtual streams for application-to-application recording and playback with loopback options for macOS and Windows
  • Pristine microphone with 3 polar patterns for maximum flexibility | Cardioid for single source applications | Omnidirectional to pick up the entire room | Figure-8, perfect for interviews and collaboration
  • Onboard control for headphone volume, mic gain, mute, and preset switching and the included UC Surface software mixer to access all of the same controls and more on your computer
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best voice recording microphone?

The best voice recording microphone is assessed based on many factors. best voice recording microphone research varies depending on the type, feature, and quality of this product. It is not too complex to cover, yet we will give you some buying guide and solutions to these problems.

Please take a closer look at best voice recording microphone characteristics below would be beneficial for you. Let’s look through and keep in mind:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Maximum Sound Pressure Level

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

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.

FAQs

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 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.

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 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.

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 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.

2 ratings

About William Shatner

William Shatner

William Shatner is a writer and editor who has worked in the audio equipment, computer, and projector industries. He also enjoys repairing and modifying audio equipment, and he has a particular interest in projectors. William is a critical thinker and problem solver, and he takes great pride in his work. He currently serves as the freelance editor of The Audio Insights.