Wanting to go beyond the capabilities of a good gaming headset comes to us all. Feedback and background noise has become a dirge to those at the forefront of streaming tech.
With the movers and shakers of the industry concentrating on sound scope, frequency and clarity, finding the right microphone has never been so exciting.
Serious production such as podcast recording or streaming needs a quality microphone. No more invasive background noise or you fiddling with equipment is a match for some of the best products on the market.
Good speakers require quality sound and streaming quality.
Whatever your streaming needs are, here’s our guide to the best streaming microphones you can buy, which include the popular streaming microphones too:
Table of Contents
Best Microphone for Streaming – Comparison Table
Best Mics for Streaming – Reviews
Rode NT-USB Versatile Studio
With its innovative straight to computer recording capabilities, the Rode NT-USB Microphone is a streaming dream. Creating easy to record rich and detailed sounding recording, the NT-USB makes high-end sounds without the extortionate price tag.
Highly versatile, this microphone is ideal for recording podcasting, voice-over, singing and musical performance.
Fully compatible with most operating systems and applications across Windows and Mac OS computers, the NT-USB can be used with any recording app that accepts an external mic.
Simply connect via USB, record and prepare yourself for how incredible the NT-USB sounds.
- Supplied with Accessories: The microphone comes with a pop shield, tripod stand, and ring mount to ensure perfect placement for recording.
- Fully Compatible: This microphone can be used with both windows and iOS.
- Headphone Jack: It also includes a headphone jack so you can monitor yourself while recording.
- Clips can be Fragile: Some customers have reported that the clips and fixtures used to secure the mic can snap during movement, so make sure to treat it with care.
Blue Yeti USB Mic
Reputable for producing powerful and clear broadcast-quality sound for podcasting, YouTube productions, game streaming and more, the Yeti is an industry leader.
Designed with you in mind, the Yeti homes instant mute and microphone gain. It also features studio controls for headphone volume as well as pattern selection.
With its three-capsule technology, the Yeti offers the flexibility that is often associated with multiple microphone recordings all within its compact hub.
Versatile and easy to use, the Yeti can be set up almost instantly with the included desktop stand. With the option to connect directly to a mic stand or boom arm too, you are no longer restricted to one spot. You can record on the go!
Delivering professional sounding streaming and recording, the Yeti will make you stand out from the crowd.
- Tri-Capsule Array: Three condenser capsules allow you to record in multiple situations.
- Customisable Gain: Fully adjust the gain on this mic to ensure that you record sound that exact way you want it.
- Multifunctional: Whether you’re trying to record podcasts, conference calls, interviews, or music, the Blue Yeti has got you covered.
- Terrible Customer Service: Customers have reported multiple severe issues with contacting customer service, and with returning defective equipment.
Audio-Technica AT2020USB+V
For its price, the Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone undeniably packs a punch. Offering a wide dynamic range, the AT2020 easily captures high sound pressure levels and gives you a rich sound as a result.
Consistent and reliable, the AT2020 is ideal for a project/home studio setting.
Featuring a low-mass diaphragm, this microphone can handle extended frequency and transient response well. This microphone will be a welcome addition to your current digital setup.
- Headphone Jack: Monitor your recording with no delay thanks to the zero-latency connector.
- Mix Control: Blend your microphone input and pre-recorded audio with ease.
- Includes Shock Mount: Don’t worry about knocking the table or arm having too much impact with the included shock mount.
- Not Free Standing: If you don’t already own a mic stand, then you’ll need to purchase one seperately as this mic doesn’t arrive with on, and cannot support itself.
HyperX QuadCast
Ideal for the aspiring streamer or podcaster, the Hyper HX-MICQC-BK QuadCast is an ideal standalone condenser microphone.
Featuring an anti-vibration shock mount, your recordings will sound clearer than ever before. The QuadCast also supports a pop filter that buffers unwanted percussive sounds leaving you to enjoy the crisp recordings for a professional studio.
Awkward streaming or broadcasting accidents can be avoided with the tap-to-mute feature. Mic input sensitivity is easy to control with the conveniently placed locator gain control dial.
With a helpful LED indicator, you can instantly view your mic’s status too, keeping you behind the driving seat.
Innovation at its finest, the QuadCast allows you to choose between the four polar patterns (stereo, omnidirectional, cardioid, bidirectional) as you monitor your mic input through the built-in headphone jack.
Streaming to your followers and listeners has never sounded so clear!
- Tap to Mute: Mute yourself and your recordings with a simple tap on the HyperX QuadCast.
- Multi Device and Chat: Usable with a range of devices and chatroom applications.
- Included Anti Shock Mount: The HyperX is both freestanding, and anti-shock, so have no fear about needing other equipment when you use this exceptional microphone.
- Red LED: If you’re currently recording, the microphone lights up red, signifying that you are live.
- Very Sensitive: Some customers have complained about the mics sensitivity, suggesting a pop filter may be needed to record clearer audio
Samson G-Track Pro
Designed to provide high audio quality for streamers, podcasters, content writers and recording artists alike, the G-Track Pro is one of the industry’s worst-kept secrets!
Featuring dual 25mm condenser capsules, the G-Track Pro captures the detail and nuance of your voice. As a result, the quality of your live stream, broadcast or recording sounds like the professional standard expected in the industry. This microphone certainly sets the bar high.
Zero-latency monitoring is made possible with the innovative 3.5mm stereo headphone output. It also offers cardioid, bidirectional and omnidirectional pickup patterns – giving you the richest, smoothest recordings.
- Plug and Play: No drivers are needed to use the Samson G-Track, simply plug it in straight from the box and it’s good to go.
- In-Built Instrument/Vocal Mixer: With a mixer built into the microphone itself, you can adjust the audio on the fly, instead of needed to edit the settings.
- Directional Stand: You can tilt this stand so that the microphone is always pointed at you, ready to pick up whatever you want to record.
- Relatively Pricey: One of the more expensive microphones on this list, you may have to think twice before you buy, since there are equally good alternatives for a lower price.
Best Streaming Microphone – Buyers Guide
How to Pick the Best Microphone for Your Streams
When purchasing a microphone for streaming there are several things you must consider, such as:
Type of Microphone
There are different types of mics that are most commonly used along with computers. The most common types that are used for computers are USB mics, low-end condenser mics and 3.5 mm standard mics.
PC or Mac
Since both Windows and iOS are different operating systems, you need to check that your intended microphone will actually work with the computer you have. It’s better to double check, then to buy something that doesn’t work.
Proposed Use
Are you doing livestreams, or recording your gameplay? If you’re recording live, you’ll want a mic that produces audio that doesn’t need to be altered in post-production. If you’re uploading videos though, this won’t be so much of an issue.
Budget
Spend what you are able to. Never buy the most expensive microphone straight away, unless money is not an issue. Yes, more expensive mics are usually better but that is not always the case. Make sure you research before you buy.
Streaming Mics – Frequently Asked Questions
What mic is good for streaming?
Below are the top microphones for live streaming:
• Rode NT USB Streaming Mic
• Blue Yeti
• Audio-Technica AT2020USB+V
• HyperX QuadCast
• Samson G-Track Pro
How much is a streaming mic?
Streaming mics can be as expensive as you are willing to go. You can find streaming mics for upwards of $400 as well, such as the Shure SM7B. But depending on what kind of need you have, and whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced streamers, there are good options available for as low as $50 as well, such as the one from HyperX QuadCast.
We have tried to keep the selection of products in our articles accessible to everyone so that you have a wide range of prices to choose from.
Do you need two mics for streaming?
Some advanced gamers who have a very large workspace setup may need to use multiple mics to cover the physical distance; however, for most streamers, one mic is more than enough.
What is needed to start streaming?
There are a few things that you need to have before you start streaming.
• Laptop: Look for decent specs such as Intel Core i7+ and 4GB RAM + 256GB SSD or above. Look carefully for those laptops that have multiple USB 3.0 and USB Type-C ports.
• Webcams: A good quality web camera with decent pixel density will do.
• Microphone: A high-quality condenser microphone for people who like to stream from their desk or a lapel/lav mic for those who do chat shows is a good option
• Audio Mixer: Mixers let you mix many audio streams into one, making sure that all audio input is at the desired volume
• Software: Streaming software help you put together the video and the audio content
• Internet Access: Nothing happens without the internet. Streaming requires fast Wi-Fi with good bandwidth. Look for nothing less than three to five MBPS.
• Channel: This is more of a personal choice and related to the genre. Depending on your style, you might want to go on to Twitch, FB, Youtube Live, or other options.
Best Studio Mics was started by a husband and wife team who love the sound and the technicals behind recording it. Both are professional theatre artists, one with a stage management background and one more on stage. One also has experience in film and television work and the different audio requirements of that arena.