#11 Best USB Microphone for Streaming 2023
Start your Twitch channel with the best USB microphone for streaming! You can't go wrong with these mics! Read more below!
👤 Written by: | Mohamad Dimas Fariz |
⏳ Updated on: | |
📋 List: | 11 items |
👀 Reader: | 58 views |
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Whether live streaming for fun or a career, investing in one of the best streaming microphones may significantly improve your streaming abilities. Although it may be tempting to use gaming headphones as a one-stop solution, the little boom microphones on such headphones will never sound as good as a dedicated desktop microphone. Here is our recommendation list of the best USB microphone for streaming that you can use to increase the quality of your streams.
Table of contents
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1.Samson G-Track Pro: Various Polar Patterns Microphone
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2.Blue snowball iCE: USB Microphone for Beginner Streamer
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3.Audio-Technica AT2020: Durable Streaming Microphone
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4.Blue yeti NANO: Compact Design Recording Microphone
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5.Elgato WAVE:1: Rich Low-End Tones Microphones
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6.Elgato WAVE:3: Genuine Sound Microphone
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7.HyperX QuadCast: RGB Lighting USB Microphone
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8.Blue yeti: All Around USB Microphone
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9.Blue yeti X: Multiple Polar Patterns Microphone
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10.Razer Seirēn Elite: Simple to Operate Microphone
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11.Shure MV7 : Professional Sound Microphone
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Cant find the answer you’re looking for? Reach out to our Q&A community.
What is the best polar pattern for USB microphones?
The available polar pattern is the biggest feature to consider when buying a microphone. If you’re only looking to stream or record a single person, a microphone with a Cardioid polar pattern should suffice. Still, those wanting to record live musical performances or two-person podcasts require an option with multiple polar patterns. And it’s ideally Bidirectional and Omnidirectional.
How much money should I spend on a USB microphone?
It is unnecessary to spend more than $200, and you should probably spend no less than around $50. The ability to make zoom calls is one thing, but when it comes to acquiring a high-quality stream, going too cheap will almost always end in you not receiving adequate recording capabilities and qualities in return.
How to test a newly bought USB microphone?
You can use a mix of recordings and live one-on-one feedback to determine how each mic sounds. Local recordings alone may not capture how a microphone sounds when the sound is streamed online. Thus how it sounds under what is necessary for VoIP (Voice over IP) situations is especially critical for streaming microphones.
How much sample and bit rate are needed for the streaming microphones?
The sample rate is the number of audio samples captured each second. The most common sampling rate on many microphones is 48kHz; you shouldn’t go lower than that. The bit rate refers to how quickly encodes a digital or audio file. Without getting too far into audiophile territory, a bit rate of 16 bits or more is regarded as desirable.
Name | Rank | Check Prices |
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Samson
G-Track Pro | #1 | Amazon Samsontech.com eBay |
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Blue
snowball iCE | #2 | Amazon Bluemic.com eBay |
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Audio-Technica
AT2020 | #3 | Amazon Audio-technica.com eBay |
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Blue
yeti NANO | #4 | Amazon Bluemic.com eBay |
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Elgato
WAVE:1 | #5 | Amazon Elgato.com eBay |
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Elgato
WAVE:3 | #6 | Amazon Elgato.com eBay |
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HyperX
QuadCast | #7 | Amazon Hyperxgaming.com eBay |
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Blue
yeti | #8 | Amazon Bluemic.com eBay |
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Blue
yeti X | #9 | Amazon Bluemic.com eBay |
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Razer
Seirēn Elite | #10 | Amazon Razer.com eBay |
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Shure
MV7 | #11 | Amazon Shure.com eBay |
11 List of Best USB Microphone for Streaming
- Have a problem
with this product?#1Samson G-Track Pro
Various Polar Patterns Microphone
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY WE LIKE IT:The Samson G-Track Pro is an excellent pick for artists who want to record both voices and instruments. It has a 1/4in audio input and a variety of polar patterns for podcasting, streaming, and live performances. This means you don’t have to buy an audio mixer to add a second microphone, a second sound source, or even an instrument. Most of the settings are on the microphone so that you can change the volume on the fly.
Pros (reasons to buy)
Multipolar patterns
Easy control buttons
Easy to installCons (reasons to avoid)
Expensive
Bulky and heavyWhat other experts liked
The Samson G-Track Pro microphone delivers a clean, DSP-free signal and offers great extras, like multiple patterns and a line input.What other experts didn't like
It’s also relatively heavy at 1.6kg, so not the easiest if you’re looking for something you can transport out and about in comparison to lighter microphones. - Have a problem
with this product?#2Blue snowball iCE
USB Microphone for Beginner Streamer
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY WE LIKE IT:The Blue Snowball iCE is a popular streaming microphone for individuals who are just getting started and don’t want to spend much money on gear. Fortunately, you can still get great-sounding audio even with a microphone like this. The plug-and-play characteristics make it extremely easy to use. You can get a smooth frequency response with high-quality sound from 40Hz to 18kHz.
You can also choose between cardioid and omnidirectional polar patterns, which let you record sound from the front or all sides of the microphone capsule. The omnidirectional mode will allow you to capture greater audio depth, while the cardioid mode will assist you in avoiding background noise.
Pros (reasons to buy)
Excellent for Beginners
Compact and portable sized
Delivers crisp and sharp audioCons (reasons to avoid)
Has limited feature
Performs poorly with distances and close-ups
Only have two polar patternWhat other experts liked
Given that plenty of the USB microphones we test cost $100 or more, the Snowball Ice from Blue stands out. At $49.99, it's a very affordable option from a company known for its high-quality pro-level mics.What other experts didn't like
This being at the budget end of Blue’s range, it’s not overflowing with features. There’s no gain control, no polar pattern switch, no mute. - Have a problem
with this product?#3Audio-Technica AT2020
Durable Streaming Microphone
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY WE LIKE IT:The Audio-Technica AT2020 is a simple microphone with a stand mount and a soft vinyl case that zips up. With a weight of 12.1 oz, this microphone is exceptionally durable. The mic’s open-circuit sensitivity is 14.1mV/Pa, equivalent to the sensitivity of other studio voice microphones.
No more worry about loud sounds like close-miked horns since the maximum SPL is a whopping 144dBSPL at 1kHz for one percent THD. The AT2020 is hard to criticize as a low-cost, general-purpose capacitor microphone. This microphone is a no-brainer for a streamer.
Pros (reasons to buy)
Low-cost microphone
Excellent vocal and instrument recording
VersatileCons (reasons to avoid)
Only one polar pattern
Slightly higher noise level
Lack of mic standWhat other experts liked
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is one of those rare microphones that give you good sound quality but at a very affordable price.What other experts didn't like
There's also the problem of lacking a mic stand. Out of the box you just have to hold it, so it's not for someone who wants to take it out of the box and start a Twitch channel immediately. - Have a problem
with this product?#4Blue yeti NANO
Compact Design Recording Microphone
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY WE LIKE IT:The Blue Yeti Nano is an excellent streaming microphone. It’s really simple to set up and operate, as is typical of the brand, and its compact proportions are more thoughtful for your workspace and better for packing and traveling. This streaming USB microphone has an excellent audio quality for podcasts and music. With 24-bit/48kHz recording capabilities, two pickup patterns, and relatively small size, this condenser microphone can do a lot for a bit of expense.
Pros (reasons to buy)
Has a compact and portable design
Comes with a low-latency monitor
Decent audio qualityCons (reasons to avoid)
Only have two direction patterns
Has minimal controlsWhat other experts liked
The Blue Yeti Nano is a well-made, great-sounding USB microphone at a reasonable priceWhat other experts didn't like
The Yeti Nano's lack of an onboard gain control knob—the gain must be adjusted through software rather than manually. - Have a problem
with this product?#5Elgato WAVE:1
Rich Low-End Tones Microphones
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY WE LIKE IT:The Wave:1 features a superb big condenser capsule with plosives and clipping prevention. There’s also a lot of sensitivity and tonal clarity. This mic works well with any voice because it produces warm, rich low-end tones that blend seamlessly with a sharp high-end. This microphone also has incredible software that allows you to regulate the mic volume and crossfade. Overall, Elgato’s Wave:1 is a fantastic option to purchase if you want to start streaming but aren’t sure which microphone to choose.
Pros (reasons to buy)
Decent audio quality
Elegant design
Beginner-friendlyCons (reasons to avoid)
Bad noise canceling
Sensitive
Has noticeable latencyWhat other experts liked
The Elgato Wave:1 is a sleek, compact condenser microphone that boasts excellent sound quality and a novel approach to audio mixing. It’s also extremely beginner-friendly.What other experts didn't like
There’s no way to adjust the mic’s input gain without installing the Wave Link software, preventing the Wave:1 from being plug-and-play. Making things worse, the default input gain setting allows for too much pickup of ambient noise. - Have a problem
with this product?#6Elgato WAVE:3
Genuine Sound Microphone
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY WE LIKE IT:The Elgato Wave:3 delivers a lot of performance for a low-cost USB microphone. It not only sounds excellent right out of the box, but it can also be fine-tuned. A capacitive mute button and a physical dial that controls mic gain, headphone volume, and crossfade make it easy to adjust the mic during streaming.
A 24-bit/96kHz analog-to-digital converter, a big condenser capsule sensitive to voices of all levels, and a lone cardioid polar pattern maintain the emphasis on you rather than background disturbances that power the excellent audio. Voices coming through the Wave:3 sound genuine, and changes from loud to soft speech are seamless.
Pros (reasons to buy)
Has a low-latency monitor
Comes with a built-in stand
Solid audio signalCons (reasons to avoid)
Only have one recording pattern
Does not come with a pop filterWhat other experts liked
Sonically, the Wave: 3 delivers a hearty, clear signal with what sounds like some peak limiting here and there when things get loud.What other experts didn't like
The only glaring downside here is the placement and mechanism of the mute button. It’s a touch-sensitive area on the very top of the mic rather than a mechanical button, and its position makes it a bit easier to hit accidentally than anyone would like. - Have a problem
with this product?#7HyperX QuadCast
RGB Lighting USB Microphone
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY WE LIKE IT:Because of its attractive appearance, the HyperX QuadCast is one of the most popular gaming mics on the market. RGB is well-known among gamers, and it is by far one of the standout features of this streaming mic. It isn’t prohibitively costly, and the sound it can create is equivalent to others in its price range. The open capsules on the microphone may be controlled using switchable polar patterns.
It includes a desktop stand and an anti-vibration shock mount to reduce handling sounds caused by bumping against your desk or moving the microphone around while streaming. There’s also an inbuilt pop filter to keep plosives to a minimum. If you enjoy sensors, you’ll like the tap-to-mute feature, which lets you silence your microphone by touching the top of it.
Pros (reasons to buy)
Excellent design
RGB Lighting
Easy controlsCons (reasons to avoid)
Average sound quality
Cheap build materialsWhat other experts liked
The HyperX Quadcast USB Gaming Mic is known for it's signature red design and heavy-duty stature, making it easily one of the coolest looking microphones on the market.What other experts didn't like
The audio performance just isn’t up to snuff, especially at this price. - Have a problem
with this product?#8Blue yeti
All Around USB Microphone
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY WE LIKE IT:Blue’s original Yeti USB microphone is an excellent all-around USB microphone with good sensitivity to a wide range of speech varieties and a crisp, neutral-sounding output. There are separate knobs for headphone volume, polar pattern, amplification level, and a mute button on the mic.
The Yeti also has a mini-USB port, which is more durable than the micro-USB connector. Although the supplied base is solid, this streaming USB microphone benefits from being mounted on a boom arm. The Yeti is perfect for those on a tight budget which will also use it for multi-singer recordings and in-person interviews.
Pros (reasons to buy)
All-rounder microphone
Good for beginners
Sensitive condenser microphoneCons (reasons to avoid)
Has expensive accessories
The button feels plastickyWhat other experts liked
From Twitch gaming to YouTube tutorials, this mic is perhaps the best known out there, and for good reason. It's easy to use, sounds superb thanks to its three condenser capsules, and doesn't cost the earth.What other experts didn't like
One downside is that the mic is fairly heavy. I’ve heard that cheaper boom stands have trouble holding it up. - Have a problem
with this product?#9Blue yeti X
Multiple Polar Patterns Microphone
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY WE LIKE IT:The Blue Yeti X is not only suitable for streamers. Multiple polar patterns are available on this excellent microphone, which you can choose between using the physical dial on the rear. With output at 24-bit/48kHz that offers a neutral, more general sound and works well for various circumstances, the Yeti X’s condenser capsules take up voices effortlessly and record voice in all vocal ranges effectively. This mic’s build quality is excellent and comes with a robust and durable base.
Pros (reasons to buy)
Versatile recording pattern
Durable build
Excellent audio qualityCons (reasons to avoid)
Heavy
Bulky design
ExpensiveWhat other experts liked
Offering a premium build, versatile recording modes and great audio recording capabilities, the USB-powered Yeti X is perfect for most livestreamers and budding podcasters.What other experts didn't like
With no features or distinct identity in its sound, it lacks a personality worth lavish praise. - Have a problem
with this product?#10Razer Seirēn Elite
Simple to Operate Microphone
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY WE LIKE IT:The Razer Seiren Elite has a dynamic capsule compatible with a wide range of speech styles, accentuates low-end tones, and demands proximity for smooth output. With one knob regulating mic gain, another controlling headphone volume, and a mute button, the Seiren Elite is simple to operate. It also has an LED ring around the mesh grill’s base that lights up when the mic’s built-in compressor comes in to smooth out excessive volume spikes.
Pros (reasons to buy)
Simple to operate
Beautiful LED ring
Built-in compressorCons (reasons to avoid)
A little bit expensive for its feature
Micro USB connectionWhat other experts liked
The Razer Seiren Elite offers a solid, professional-feeling build and a clear signal for live streamers and podcasters.What other experts didn't like
The only big problem with the Razer Seiren Elite is the price. For this price you can buy studio microphones from brands such as Audio-Technica and you still have some change left. - Have a problem
with this product?#11Shure MV7
Professional Sound Microphone
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY WE LIKE IT:If you’re a musician or want to hear your voice the way it was designed to be heard, the MV7 is a no-brainer. Shure’s first hybrid XLR/USB microphone delivers professional sound with minimum setup and knowledge. While it is more costly than the normal premium microphone, its flexibility makes up for it.
This streaming USB microphone is a great-sounding XLR/USB hybrid microphone that will offer seasoned podcasters and streamers a major improvement, particularly if you’re seeking a microphone that can connect to a USB audio interface to switch to XLR down the road.
Pros (reasons to buy)
Versatile use microphone
Excellent software
Good vocal sound clarityCons (reasons to avoid)
Comes without a mic stand
Uses micro USBWhat other experts liked
The Shure MV7 is a well-priced, well-made mic with a huge amount of genuinely useful functionality. Easy enough for a beginner, yet with enough quality to impress the pro-user, the MV7 is an outstanding option.What other experts didn't like
Unfortunately the MV7 only has touch controls via USB or can be controlled through the software. This also means you have to be extra careful not to introduce noise if you make adjustments while recording by touching the mic.
Conclusion: Best USB Microphone for Streaming
As a streamer, choosing which USB microphone is best for your requirements may be challenging. This article contains detailed information on the functions and specifications of the best USB microphone for streaming. Invest in a USB microphone that fulfills your requirements, and enjoy your streaming experience!