Affordable and high-quality computer microphones.
If you want to create unforgettable content, you can’t do without the best computer microphone. Aside from purchasing a high-quality camera, make sure to buy a decent mic as your audio needs to be clear and crisp so as not to spoil your viewing experience. People who watch your live-streams might leave if there is the slightest problem with audio. As a rule, the more expensive a microphone is, the better quality it delivers. Therefore, the amount you are willing to spend will directly affect the quality of a device.
Whether you are using a Windows PC or Mac, you can choose the best computer microphone from a variety of options. The first thing to decide on is your budget, a microphone type and a purpose of use.
We’ve put together a list of 6 microphones that come with built-in or detachable stands, which makes them perfect for desk use. Check out this article to select the best computer microphone for your needs.
Power Source: 5V | Polar patterns: Stereo, omnidirectional, cardioid, and bidirectional | Connectivity: USB | Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz
HyperX Quadcast is the perfect standalone microphone for amateur streamers who demand high-quality audio. With a two-ways modes, you can switch easily between cardioid and omnidirectional pattern. QuadCast has an internal pop filter, a built-in subwoofer port, and a three-band equalizer. Quickly check sound levels with the large LED indicator, adjust mic signal level with the conveniently-placed gain knob, and monitor noise via headphone or cable connection.
The HyperX QuadCast computer microphone is perfect for casual and professional performers alike. You can stream your recordings live to let everyone hear how great your voice sounds. Even if you are recording your own music, you can add effects and bass to make the track even more exciting. There are also several sound effects to enhance your music like gated rhythms, ring modulation, compression, full range compression, and the classic tape recorder echo. The Mic preamp output is compatible with nearly all sound cards including RealTek, PCI, AGP, USB, ISE, MAC, Microsoft Windows, Linux, Unix, etc.
Power Source: 5V | Polar patterns: Stereo, Mono Cardioid, Mono Bidirectional, Raw Mid-Side | Connectivity: Lightning Connector | Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz
The Shure MV88 computer microphone is a professional grade microphone that comes in several different sizes and designs. This enables the user to use the microphone for different applications, which can range from vocals to live performance recordings. The microphone features two capsules, one with a capsule that has a very shallow frequency response and a boost section that create a more extended sound. It has an efficient low frequency driver along with a diaphragm assembly. Additionally, the Shure MV88 also has a new cardioid pattern which aids in the addition of body sound to the recording.
With the Shure MV886, you have the option of utilizing a USB device or the Line Input. You will find many different computer software programs that allow you to send the recording directly to your mixing board. The program transfers the sound into the appropriate track. Another option is to open up the recording in a sound editor such as Pro Tools. From there you can add effects, bass lines, treble heads, and more.
Power Source: 5V | Polar patterns: Cardioid | Connectivity: USB, 3.5 mm Jack | Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz
Rode NT-USB Computer Microphone is a great microphone to get if you are looking for an affordable and flexible recording instrument that can be used in almost any kind of recording environment. The NT-USB is a high-quality side-address noise-canceling microphone that is perfect for recording live singing and instrumental music as well as spoken applications like podcasting and remote voice-overs. It's fully compatible with virtually all popular recording software, or even any other audio recording program that accepts an active microphone input.
With the use of an instrumentation monitoring plug-in installed on the Rode NT USB, you can monitor and record your voice remotely over the internet. In addition, with a powerful multi-effects processor and a high-resolution audio interface, the output from your recording can be easily transmitted over the internet, to a wide range of different devices including computers, iPhones, PDAs and other handheld and portable devices.
Power Source: 5V | Polar patterns: Cardioid, Omni, Figure-8, Stereo | Connectivity: USB | Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz
If you are looking for a professional quality microphone that is easy to use, has great build quality and a vast amount of flexibility, the Blue Yeti X Professional computer microphone is the one for you. The Blue Yeti X Professional computer microphone is able to handle all types of communication through its compact size, noise cancelling mic and four specially designed capsules. The all-metal body, with a precision-tunneled spring design, is both lightweight and durable, and also features a conveniently placed jog wheel for easy turning during set up and operation. The illuminated smart multi-button knob allows you to easily and precisely monitor your voice levels in real-time, giving you precise control over your broadcast.
The streamlined styling of the Blue Yeti X Professional is also extremely intuitive to use, with the rubber grip on the stand included to ensure a secure and comfortable hold. And with noise cancelling mic circuitry, the Yeti X Professional will keep you and your audience free from disturbing background noises.
Power Source: 5V | Polar patterns: Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Bidirectional | Connectivity: USB | Frequency response: 50Hz–20kHz
Samson G-Track Pro computer microphone is the perfect recording solution for everyone. Ideal for professional podcasters, artists, radio DJs and everyone in between, the G-Spot Pro is an all in one, multi-pattern electrical condenser microphone/mixer, audio interface and full-range soundboard/enser, delivering incredible sound quality with minimal monitoring. With the ability to monitor levels via its large, touch-sensitive control panel, the Samson G-Track Pro makes it easy to precisely tune and mix your track, without having to do any subtractions during the recording process. The powerful 16-channel monitoring capability of the Samson G-Track Pro ensures that no sound is missed on your final mixes.
It has a front-mounted mixer that makes it easy to add another mic input without needing to change decks. This feature also allows you to place the Samson in a position that is optimal for both cardio and vocal applications. Another great advantage of the Samson is its user-friendly controls, which allow you to achieve any sound effect you desire.
Power Source: 5V | Polar patterns: Unidirectional | Connectivity: USB, XLR | Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz
The Audio Technica AT2020 computer microphone is one of the better-known brand names and this particular model is probably most popular with those involved in the music and sound industry. It features a cardioid pattern, which can produce a wide range of frequencies which can be processed through the speaker utilizing various methods. This means that the person using the microphone has more options available when working with different sounds and noises. It also has a built-in diaphragm, which makes it particularly suitable for use with condenser microphones.
One of the things that set this microphone apart from many other brands is the fact that it works well with both desktop computers and laptops. You don't have to go wireless and you can just use the standard type of cables that make it easy to connect to your computer without having to use any additional hardware.
| IMAGE | NAME | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
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HyperX QuadCast
Our Choice
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CHECK PRICE → | |
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Shure MV88
Best lightning
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CHECK PRICE → | |
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Rode NT-USB
For beginner
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CHECK PRICE → |
Before making your choice, think about which type of microphone is compatible with your PC. One of the commonly used types is USB with a 3.5mm standard, however, you can also find various condenser microphones. It all depends on your preferences. We focused on USB microphones but also included several other models in this list.
Modern computers are designed with a USB port so you can find enough options on the market regardless of the type of OS you prefer. Besides, thanks to rapid technological developments, the newest mics offer better sound quality if you compare them to outdated USB microphones. Most microphones are versatile when it comes to PC and Mac compatibility, so it doesn’t really matter which OS you are using.
While there are many other important aspects besides sound quality, you should also take into account the recording quality when choosing the best computer microphone. You need to find a device that will help you sound great. We have tested different models using various settings and found a cardioid pick-up pattern to be the most suitable for my needs, as it works great for playing games and live streaming.
Since each user has specific requirements, a microphone needs to be suitable for different uses. Even if you find a perfect option that clearly stands out from the others in terms of sound, but only when it is located at a specific distance from your mouth and installed on a stand with a shock mount, this does not guarantee excellent performance of the microphone in the future.
