It is not a secret that if you want to attract more viewers and provide high-quality videos on your YouTube channel, do not forget that audio quality is just as important as video quality.
As a reason, we reviewed the best microphones for YouTube and vlogging.
The fact is that most YouTube vloggers are using built-in camera microphones, and they are not bothering to buy a separate one with higher audio quality.
Here’s the kicker:
Microphones that are installed in the cameras typically have lower audio quality and can transfer unnecessary sounds very quickly.
So if you want to find out what are the top microphones for YouTube in 2024, continue reading this article.
Our Favorite Mics for YouTube
Types of Microphones
If you don’t know what kind of microphone you need for your vlogs – read this section carefully. I’m going to review all types of microphones for recording YouTube videos, and I hope it will help you to pick the correct one.
Remember: When choosing the right microphone for your YouTube videos, there is no right or wrong way to do this.
With so many types of microphones, you can get a bit overwhelmed, so always try to consult with the provider or just read this review, which will help you to find out what is best for your YouTube vlogging quality.
Lavalier Microphones
Also known as Lapel microphones, the Lavalier mics are small hand-sized microphones usually unobtrusively clipped on clothing.
Great for vlogging, this kind of microphone comes in handy when you are filming alone or interviewing another person. Besides, if you put this microphone correctly, it can be invisible and barely noticeable. This could be one of the best microphones for recording your vlog or even the podcast.
Purchased as either a wired or wireless lay mic, the microphone is used by a lot of vloggers who move around.
All in all, this is a very common microphone that is being used all over the world on any occasion, not only for YouTube vlogging. It is very comfortable because you can walk, talk and record your voice into this microphone, as it is hands-free.
As they are small and have excellent quality, they can be used with any type of camera or even a smartphone.
Smartphone Microphones
Although there are not the highest quality options when it comes to microphones, smartphone microphones are popularly used by vloggers.
Mostly used by beginners who are on a tight budget, the smartphone microphone is ideal for most scenarios.
You can use it to record interviews, basic demos, any type of vlogs, or even improve the presence of conference calls.
Shotgun Microphones
This is quite a different type of microphone than the Lavalier.
Unlike Lavalier mics, the Shotgun microphones are literally attached to your camera and protrude towards you, thus the name shotgun.
Mostly mounted on DSLR or mirrorless cameras, the microphone is perfect for vloggers filming outdoors or just away from your computer.
This type of microphone is an excellent choice for video creators if you want to avoid all additional sounds except your voice. The tone of your voice goes straight into the directional capsule, and it has a “defense” to all additional sounds.
Besides, if you cannot get closer to get a particular sound of an object that you are filming – this microphone can get handy for you. The shotgun microphone captures the sound from a distance easily and without any additional sounds – so it is making like a “sound tunnel” and captures the sound.
USB Microphones
Last but not least are the USB microphones.
These microphones are mostly used by YouTubers and Vloggers, who are usually working near a computer.
Moreover, they are also used when recording with a webcam or an exterior camera on a tripod.
The microphones are perfect for product demonstrations, music, gaming walkthroughs, interviews, commentary tutorials, among others, and sure podcasting.
Best Microphones for YouTube
Name | Short Description | Check |
---|---|---|
TOP Lavalier Microphone for YouTube Videos | Price | |
Best Cheap Lavalier Microphone for Vlogging | Price | |
Best Wireless Lavalier Mic System for Vlogging | Price | |
Best Smartphone Microphone for Making Vlogs (Android / iOS) | Price | |
Best Budget Friendly Vlogging Microphone for Smartphones | Price | |
Best On-Camera Microphone Under $300 | Price | |
Best Shotgun Microphone for YouTube Videos Under $200 | Price | |
Best On-Camera Microphone for Daily Vlogging Under $100 | Price | |
Best Camera Microphone for Vlogging Under $50 | Price | |
Best DSLR Camera Microphone Under $300 | Price | |
Best USB Microphone for Streaming Under $300 | Price | |
Best USB Microphone for YouTube Beginners Under $100 | Price | |
Best USB Microphone for Streaming, Gaming Under $50 | Price | |
Perfect Microphone for Recording Podcasts for YouTube | Price | |
Perfect Microphone for Recording Vocals | Price |
Lavalier Microphones for YouTube Videos
Rode Lavalier Go – TOP Lavalier Microphone for YouTube Videos
Do you record your YouTube videos using smartphones, tablets, or cameras? Then Rode SmartLav + might be the best microphone for you.
Known to offer excellent sound, the microphone is ideal for online meetings, podcasts, interviews, and even recording vocal demos or daily podcasts outside.
The best part is the condenser capsules enable you to capture clear sound in any scenario, such as a windy or noisy environment.
What’s more, this microphone has the same audio quality as a USB microphone, meaning you can record audio sound from all directions of the mic.
DESIGN:Made out of a premium plastic and metal blend, Rode SmartLav+ has a compact and robust design. It has a black cable with two jacks’ cable range and includes a carry pouch, clip and foam cover.
- Acoustic Principle: Permanently Polarised Condenser
- Active Electronics: JFET
- Capsule: 10″ Condenser Microphone
- Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional
- Frequency Range: 60Hz – 18kHz
- Output Impedance: 3 0Ω
- Maximum SPL: 110dB SPL
- Maximum Output Level: 189 mV
- Sensitivity: 35 dB +/- 2 dB
- Equivalent Noise Level: 27dB
- Weight: 6 g / 0,01 lb
- Output: TRRS jack
- Power Option: Supplied by a camera, smartphone, or tablet
- Low self-noise
- Compatible with smartphones
- Great quality
- Has a foam pop shield
- It sounds clear and natural
- It has a short cable which may require an extension
- Omnidirectional
Despite being omnidirectional, Rode SmartLav+ is one of the TOP Lavalier microphones out there. From its great design, amazing compatibility across all devices, and excellent audio quality, you also get other essential features making it ideal for YouTubers and vloggers. Aside from being an exceptional and best microphone for YouTube videos, you do get your money’s worth.
PowerDeWise Professional – Best Cheap Lavalier Microphone for Vlogging
Have you been searching for a dependable cheap lavalier microphone to conduct a YouTube interview, video conference, or podcast? Then look no further than the PowerDeWise Professional Grand Lavalier Microphone.
Perfect for home, office, or outside activities, the microphone records clean and clear sound due to its noise cancellation enabling you to have flawless results.
With no batteries or drivers required to work with your smartphone, all you need is to plug the jack, start recording and when you are done, unplug to listen.
DESIGN:Black in color, this particular microphone is compact, meaning it easily fits in your pocket, or you can keep it in a storage case.
Designed with extra durable wind muff and metal clips, the microphone is truly well built and sturdy. Made to work with Android and Apple devices, the 3.5mm jack can also work with laptops and Windows PCs when an adapter is included.
- Acoustic Principle: Pressure Gradient
- Active Electronics: JFET
- Capsule: Condenser Microphone 0.10″
- Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional
- Frequency Range: 50 Hz – 20 kHz
- Output Impedance: 350Ω
- Maximum SPL: 140dB SPL
- Maximum Output Level: 0dBu
- Sensitivity: 46dB +/- 2 dB
- Equivalent Noise Level: 25dB-A
- Weight: 30 g / 0,06 lb
- Output: 5 mm TRRS jack
- Power Option: Supplied by a camera, smartphone or tablet
- Low self-noise
- Compatible with smartphones
- Great quality
- Has a foam pop shield
- It sounds clear and natural
- Extra cable
- Basic wind protection
If you have been just introduced in the world of Lavalier lapel microphones, PowerDeWise Professional Grand is a great microphone to start with, especially for a super good price. It provides good signal clarity for a decent 10 feet distance and it’s easy to use since you only plug and play.
RODE Wireless Go – Best Wireless Lavalier Mic System for Vlogging
According to our test, RODE Wireless Go is the best wireless Lavalier mics in the market for vloggers, YouTubers, filmmakers, on-camera presenters, and many more in 2024.
Built to provide excellent sound quality, the mic is easy to set up as well as travel with due to its wireless nature.
Available in two colors, black and white, the Wireless Go offers secure digital transmission and easy operability for anyone using it. That means you don’t need to use a menu, but just press a button and you are all set to record.
Note that the mic is extremely versatile as you can use it both indoors as well as outdoors.
DESIGN:When it comes to design, the Wireless Go is ultra-compact, and super-lightweight, meaning it is easily clipped on clothing or your camera’s cold-shoe mount. Additionally, the mic includes two fur windshields meant to minimize noise from wind and rustling clothes.
On top of that, at the auto pairs, there is a transmitter and a receiver, which are both the same size. Both of them have rechargeable internal batteries charged via USB-C and can serve you for around 7 hours.
On the transmitter, two blue LED lights show the power and are linked to the receiver as well as an inbuilt microphone. To top it off, you get a 3.5mm input usually used to plug in a Lavalier microphone.
- Acoustic Principle: Pre-polarised pressure transducer
- Active Electronics: JFET
- Capsule: Electret Condenser Microphone
- Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional
- Frequency Range: 50 Hz to 20 kHz
- Maximum SPL: 100dB SPL (1kHz @ 1m)
- Maximum Output Level: + 3dBu
- Sensitivity: 35 dB
- Equivalent Noise Level: 8dB
- Weight: 31 g / 0,06 lb
- Output: 5 mm TRS
- Power Option: Battery/ USB connection
- The systems are extremely compact
- Easy to use
- Has a great audio quality
- The Micon transmitter is a great touch
- Can mount on the hot shoe of the camera
- Wireless mic
- There is no locking system on the microphone input socket
Though there is the possibility of the lavalier mic being pulled out of the 3.5mm input, the RODE Wireless Go is still one of the best wireless microphones to buy. Apart from it being easy to use, you can travel it with you anywhere without worrying about any extra weight. Generally speaking, a wireless system will make you feel much easier and more comfortable while recording a video blog.
TOP Microphones for Filming with a Smartphone
Shure MV88+ Video Kit – Best Smartphone Microphone for Making Vlogs (Android / iOS)
If you usually use a smartphone to record your YouTube videos, then there is no better microphone to own than the Shure MV88+.
One of the best smartphone microphones any vlogger may need, the MV88 + has all you require to capture great content anywhere, at any time.
A legendary name in the manufacturing industry, Shure is known for making top-notch studio equipment and has not been disappointed when it comes to microphones.
Apart from the MV88+, the kit also includes a small tripod, shoe mount, wind guard as well as a headphones jack.
DESIGN:One unique factor about the microphone’s design is that it is pocket-friendly, solid, and simple to use.
There’s no power button and you don’t need to swap a battery since it draws the power from your smartphone.
At the back of the mic is a 3.5 mm jack that enables you to hear live levels as you are recording. Next to the jack is a micro USB port that connects the microphone directly to your smartphone or tablet.
- Acoustic Principle: Pressure Gradient
- Active Electronics: JFET
- Capsule: 2 x Condenser Microphone
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Bidirectional
- Frequency Range: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Output Impedance: 17Ω
- Maximum SPL: 120 dB SPL
- Maximum Output Level: 10 dBu
- Sensitivity: 37dBFS/Pa
- Equivalent Noise Level: 4 dB
- Weight: 5 g (with windscreen)/ 79 g (0,17 lb) (without windscreen)
- Output: 5 mm monitor output
- Power: Supplied by smartphones
- It has a built-in headphone output
- Compatible with most iPhones and Android devices
- Premium audio quality
- The phone mount is compatible with any tripod
- Comes with different accessories such as USB-C- cable, phone clamp, roll-up bag, etc.
- A bit pricey
- Tripod adjustment hard to press
Although it is not compatible with all Android devices, the Shure MV88+ is still a great piece of kit and adds amazing sound to videos. So, are you ready to take your vlogging career on your smartphone to the next level? Then invest in the MV88+ today.
Comica Video Kit – Best Budget-Friendly Vlogging Microphone for Smartphones
A perfect handheld microphone for YouTubers and vloggers on a tight budget. The Comica CVM-VM10-K2 will provide a better shooting experience when it comes to sound.
Created to make your video have that professional touch, the microphone has a frequency response that gives you a wide audible range.
Also, the SPL of 100 dB enables you to record louder sounds without any unnecessary noise.
Known to support all smartphones with a 3.5 mm audio input jack, the mic comes with other accessories. These include a tripod, a wind muff to pair with a windscreen for outdoor uses, a flexible smartphone clamp, a portable case, an audio output cable for smartphones, and a user manual.
DESIGN:Purely meant to operate with smartphones, the Comica CVM-VM10-K2 microphone is small and lightweight. Made of Aluminum Alloy, the mic also comes with a super shield and anti-interference function.
What’s more, the mic has a professional shock absorption stand made of silica gel. The gel is there to avoid any shaking while you record your YouTube videos.
- Acoustic Principle: Pressure Gradient
- Active Electronics: JFET
- Capsule: 1 xElectret Condenser Microphone
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Range: 60 Hz to 20 kHz
- Output Impedance: 2 +/- 30%
- Maximum SPL: 105 dB SPL
- Maximum Output Level: 7dBu
- Sensitivity: 33 dB +/- 2 dB
- Equivalent Noise Level: 75dB-A
- Weight: 544 g / 1.1 lb
- Output: TRS cable for Smartphone
- Power: Supplied by smartphones
- Versatile handheld Smartphone Clamp
- Removable easy to carry handle
- The microphone is made with a professional shock-absorption stand
- No batteries required
- Small and lightweight
- The cord that comes with the kit only works with smartphones
The Comica CVM-VM10-K2 Smartphone Video Rig is truly a great package to purchase for YouTubers who make vlogs with a smartphone and looking for a perfect budget-friendly microphone. First of all, the audio the microphone produces is great and the tripod is nice. You will also love the phone holder and the cold shoe mount on top.
Best Shotgun On-Camera Microphones for Vlogging
Rode VideoMic NTG Shotgun – Best On-Camera Microphone Under $300
Another model from the Australian-owned company, the Rode NTG is an amazing microphone optimized for on-camera. Extremely versatile, the mic pairs perfectly with DSLRs, mirrorless, or compact cameras. Of course, you need to check if your camera has a mic jack input.
Quiet straightforward to use if you have used a microphone before, the mic comes with already sitting on the SM7-R mount.
Furthermore, the windshield is also on and all that is required from you is to connect your camera or even your smartphone.
One of the easiest to operate and with an amazing sound-quality microphone for vloggers who want to improve video sound quality significantly.
DESIGN:Just like the NTG5, the VideoMic NTG has the same creative acoustic design. Compact in size, the mic is also lightweight with a full-sized USB microphone that is easily plugged into a smartphone, tablet, and computer. Made from aerospace-grade aluminum, the mic is definitely of high quality.
The great news is that the 3.5 mm jack output detects what device you are connected to and automatically switches to accommodate it. Keep in mind, there are two main buttons on the microphone that are very responsive as well as an adjustable gain knob.
- Acoustic Principle: Pressure Gradient
- Active Electronics: JFET
- Capsule: 50″ Electret Condenser Microphone
- Polar Pattern: Super-Cardioid
- Frequency Range: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Output Impedance: 10 ohm
- Maximum SPL: 120 dB SPL
- Maximum Output Level: 0dBu
- Sensitivity: 26 dBV/Pa
- Equivalent Noise Level: 15dB SPL
- Weight: 94 g / 0,2 lb
- Output: 55mm auto-sensing, USB-C
- Power Option: Rechargeable battery/USB
- Long-lasting battery
- Good mic options to control the sound
- Great sound quality and versatile
- Powers on automatically
- Can be used as a USB mic with live audio monitoring
- Doesn’t allow the use of an XLR adapter for balanced audio output
- A little expensive compared to its competitors
The VideoMic NTG is so much more than just an on-camera mic. Apart from pairing perfectly with DSLRs, compact cameras, and smartphones, it is also small enough to fit into most travel bags. So, if you are going for first-grade audio quality, make sure the VideoMic NTG is a part of your YouTube and Vlogging tools.
Rode VideoMic with Rycote Shock Mount – Best Shotgun Microphone for YouTube Videos Under $200
Well, Rode has done it again with the VideoMic camera microphone with Rycote Shock Mount.
Designed specifically for professional video cameras as well as personal audio recorders, this particular camera comes with various accessories. These include windshield, microphone screw adapter, and boom pole and headphones extension cables.
So, what’s great about this microphone?
First of all, it isolates sound as well as cuts out background noise, especially in a loud environment. This is possible due to the super-cardioid polar pattern that focuses explicitly on the subject in front of the camera. Secondly, it is easy to mount on cameras, especially DSLRs and camcorders, that have the standard hot-shoe fitting.
DESIGN:Looking closely at the Rode VideoMic design, much of the microphone and the mount is made of plastic. Nonetheless, there is a small piece of metal found in the bottom of the shock mount, as well as a couple of screws. The front of the mic comes with a foam windscreen, which helps reduce noise from low windy conditions.
The back of the mic houses the on/off switch and battery storage. The switch has three buttons, the on, off, and high pass filters.
Unlike the on/off switch which is self-explanatory the purpose of the high pass filter is to cut out lower frequencies thus focusing more on the recording voices.
- Acoustic Principle: Line Gradient
- Active Electronics: JFET impedance converter
- Capsule: 50″ Electret Condenser Microphone
- Polar Pattern: SuperCardioid
- Frequency Range: 40 Hz to 20 kHz
- Output Impedance: 200Ω
- Maximum SPL: 134 dB SPL
- Maximum Output Level: 9dBu
- Sensitivity: 38.0dB +/- 2 dB
- Equivalent Noise Level: 20dB SPL
- Weight: 176 g / 0,38 lb
- Great sound quality
- 9v battery lasts for long
- Connects well with DSLR, Mirrorless Cameras and Camcorders
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- The microphone is huge, especially when connected to small DSLR cameras
- The audio cable isn’t replaceable
Just like other Rode microphone models, the Rode VideoMic Camera Microphone is easy to use as well as has great sounding for recording YouTube videos. Also, it doesn’t hurt that it’s really an affordable microphone making it ideal for both beginners as well as pros.
Rode VideoMic Go – Best On-Camera Microphone for Daily Vlogging Under $100
One of the best shotgun on-camera microphones under $100, Rode VideoMic Go delivers clear, crisp directional audio for your vlogs.
Amazingly, the microphone only picks what it’s in front of it, therefore, reducing surrounding sounds.
The mic has no complicated switches or settings, making it easy to use. Also, being powered by your camera, you really don’t need any batteries to operate it.
DESIGN:Just like other Rode models, Rode VideoMic Go is also compact and lightweight.
Made from high-quality plastic, the microphone has extra protection from the Rycote Lyre. The lyre ensures the mic doesn’t snap or wear out.
- Acoustic Principle: Line Gradient
- Active Electronics: JFET impedance converter with bipolar output buffer
- Capsule: 50″ Condenser Microphone
- Polar Pattern: Super-Cardioid
- Frequency Range: 100 Hz to 16 kHz
- Output Impedance: 200Ω
- Maximum SPL: 120 dB SPL
- Maximum Output Level: 7dBu
- Sensitivity: 35.0dB +/- 2 dB
- Equivalent Noise Level: 34dBA
- Weight: 73 g / 0,16 lb
- Power Option: Supplied by a camera
- Easy to use meaning it’s ready to record at any time
- No battery required
- Great shock mount
- It is budget-friendly
- Does not have a power switch therefore impossible to forget to turn it on
- It is not compatible with some cameras, recommend checking before buying it
- Can’t use the viewfinder on many cameras while the mic is mounted
Overall, Rode VideoMic Go is one of the best camera microphones for beginner YouTubers and vloggers. The audio quality is on point and it’s easy to use. Being lightweight, the mic is Compatible with DSLR and can also be plugged into the iPhone and iPad. So, if you have been lost on which microphone to buy for under $100 then the VidemIC Go is a good choice.
TAKSTAR SGC-598 – Best Camera Microphone for Vlogging Under $50
Ideally made for camcorders, Nikon, and Canon cameras, the TAKSTAR SGC-598 is a decent microphone mostly used by vloggers and filmmakers who are on a very low budget and just starting a YouTube channel.
Producing a fairly neutral balance, the microphone concentrates on both the mild and lower tones.
Easy to use with just a simple plugin and turn on the process, the mic is great for close-up talks during your vlog, especially less than 10 feet away.
Since it is not as directional as many shotgun mics should be, you may pick some background sounds while recording.
But hey! That should not worry you, as you can edit it out in the final cut. Ultimately, if you need a clear, crispy sound, you should use it in a quiet environment.
DESIGN:Though the TAKSTAR SGC-598 is only under $30, it looks very professional.
The entire build is made of Shuo plastic, which makes the mic not very stable. However, the sound quality for this price makes it a good deal regardless of the build.
There are three switches on the side of the microphone; one of the switches is the on/off power button, the other is the +10db audio boost. Lastly, you find the low-cut switch.
Finally, the cable is permanently attached to the front of the microphone, which isn’t ideal since it limits you from using a longer cable.
- Acoustic Principle: Line Pressure
- Active Electronics: JFET
- Capsule: Condenser Microphone
- Polar Pattern Cardioid
- Frequency Range: 50Hz-16kHz
- Output Impedance: 2000 Ω ± 30
- Maximum SPL: 60 dB SPL
- Maximum Output Level: 0dBu
- Sensitivity: 32dB À 3dB (0dB = 1V/Pa at 1 kHz).
- Equivalent Noise Level: 10dBA
- Weight: 89 g / 0,19 lb
- Power Option: AA alkaline battery
- It is very affordable
- Great in close intervals
- Has a good battery life
- Decent sound
- Portable
- Overall build quality could be better
Taking into consideration the TAKSTAR SGC-598 is not a professional microphone, the audio is decent enough when compared to other cheap microphones.
However, you need to have your subjects at close range when interviewing them for better sound or use it at voice recording on a computer. Keep in mind; you will have to edit out the background hiss from your recordings in order to deliver quality YouTube videos.
Rode VideoMic Pro+ – Best DSLR Camera Microphone Under $300
Wow, it seems Rode is taking the trophy today. Yet another amazing shotgun camera, the Rode VideoMic Pro+ is known to easily mount on your DSLR camera as well as camcorders.
However, it really works well with portable recorders. What’s more, the mic is created to automatically turn on when you power your camera and turn off when your camera does.
This incredible advancement ensures you don’t forget to turn it off, thus saving battery life. In addition, you also avoid reshooting scenes because you forgot to turn it on in the first place.
A great option for travel YouTubers and vloggers, interviews, and sports among others. The mic comes with its own power supply in the form of rechargeable batteries, a USB cable, and a filter.
DESIGN:First of all, the Rode VideoMic Pro Plus is a very small and comfortable on-camera microphone. Made out of heavy-duty plastic, which looks quite solid, the mic is accompanied by an integrated windshield that protects your audio against the wind. Also, you get an integrated shock mount to protect your audio from unnecessary interference.
Weighing around 122 grams, the microphone has a rechargeable battery, making it possible for you to shoot outside without external power. The battery is placed in a built-in battery door assisted by a hinge and you are only required to plug the microphone using the onboard Micro USB and you are all set.
- Acoustic Principle: Line Gradient
- Active Electronics:
- Capsule: 55″ Condenser Microphone
- Polar Pattern: Super cardioid
- Frequency Range: 20Hz-20kHz
- Output Impedance: 200Ω
- Maximum SPL: 133 dB SPL
- Maximum Output Level: 72dBu
- Sensitivity: 33.6dB+/-2 dB
- Equivalent Noise Level: 14dB
- Weight: 122 g / 0,26 lb
- Power Option: Inbuilt rechargeable battery, AA batteries), USB
- Long battery life
- Good build quality
- Lightweight
- Rechargeable battery
- Safety channel
- Larger than previous models
- Location of eighth-inch output
Rode has truly done a great job with the VideoMic Pro+. With the improved long-life battery life, safety channel, integrated shocking mount, and windshield, vloggers will appreciate having this microphone in their kit.
Best USB Microphones for YouTube Videos
Blue Yeti – Best USB Microphone for Streaming Under $300
I can bet that if you sometimes watch home-type vlogs or stream sessions, you probably have seen this mic for sure.
A popular microphone among YouTubers and vloggers, the Blue Yeti is a budget-friendly USB mic ideal for anyone stationed in one place.
Mostly compatible with Windows as well as Mac OSX, the microphone has four pickup patterns, mainly cardioid, bi-directional, omnidirectional, and stereo. The four pickups are easily switched depending on how you want to record your audio making it exceptionally unique.
DESIGN:To begin with, the mic is designed with tri-capsule technology and four different pattern settings. The capsule technology is made to deliver clear, detailed sound while the patterns ensure you pick sounds in different directions.
Apart from that, it has an incredible headphone jack that enables you to monitor what the microphone is picking in real-time.
The mic also has a gain control and mute button that gives you hands-on control as to what you are recording. Furthermore, the mic comes with a nice and solid mic stand that enables you to rotate it in different positions. You should also note that although the Blue Yeti is a heavy microphone, it can be folded down for easy portability.
- Acoustic Principle: Pressure Gradient
- Active Electronics: JFET
- Capsule: 3 Blue-proprietary 14mm condenser microphone capsules
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid/Omni directional/Bi-directional/Stereo
- Frequency Range: 20Hz-20kHz
- Output Impedance: 16 Ω
- Maximum SPL: 120 dB SPL(THD:0.5% 1kHz)
- Maximum Output Level: 130mW (power output)
- Sensitivity: 5mV/Pa (1 kHz)
- Equivalent Noise Level: 100dB
- Weight: 500 g (microphone) / 1,1 lb, 1 kg (stand) / 2,2 lb
- Power Option: USB
- Incredible sound quality
- Multiple recording patterns
- Mute button
- Adjustable mic stand
- Simple to use as you just Plug and play
- No multi head set up
- Sound capturing might be a bit too much of everything
Though the Blue Yeti has been popular with beginner YouTubers and vloggers, the more experienced ones have found it useful too. The design and build quality are equally good and it is simple to use. You only need to plug and play since there’s no software to install.
Blue Snowball – Best USB Microphone for YouTube Beginners Under $100
One of the best-priced USB microphones for less than $100, the Blue Snowball is popular with YouTubers, vloggers, and game streamers.
A great solution to recording audio on your desktop, the mic produces high-quality results with the background noise pretty low.
Unbelievably easy, the mic works perfectly the instant you plug it in, making it ideal for beginners. Having an extra polar pattern option, the Blue Snowball offers both cardioid and omnidirectional.
The cardioid is suited for solo presenters, while The omnidirectional polar pattern picks up the sound 360o near the microphone.
Note that, for anyone using it for podcasting, the best way to get the ultimate results is by speaking into it from around 6 inches away.
DESIGN:A unique microphone, Blue Snowball is covered with a high-quality plastic cover, although the front and back are made of steel. Moreover, the front side also has a steel mesh and a beautifully crafted Blue logo.
Accompanying the mic is a tripod mount, which, when screwed properly to the mic, makes it possible to move it upwards or downwards.
Surprisingly, the mount is of adjustable height, making it possible to carry it inside a bag or backpack.
- Acoustic Principle: Pressure Gradient
- Active Electronics: JFEG
- Capsule: 2 condensers
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid or Omnidirectional
- Frequency Range: 40Hz-18kHz
- Output Impedance: 30 Ω
- Maximum SPL: 120 dB SPL
- Maximum Output Level: 16 bit /44.1 kHz.( fixed)
- Sensitivity: 10dB
- Equivalent Noise Level: 5 dB-A
- Weight: 450 g / 0,99 lb
- Power Option: USB
- Decent audio quality
- Compatible with Windows as well as Mac
- Dual capsule design
- Comes with a tripod mount
- Easy plug-and-play design
- Doesn’t have a mute button
- Very sensitive in omnidirectional mode
Being a respected name in the microphone industry, Blue has not disappointed when it comes to offering an entry-level mic.
Used by many starter YouTubers and Vloggers, it’s a simple microphone used for recording podcasts, voice-overs, and twitch streams. Note that being a desktop USB microphone requires you to use it in a silent location since it mostly picks all manner of sounds.
TONOR TC30 – Best Budget USB Microphone for Streaming and Gaming
Planning on buying a microphone but you are on a tight budget? Worry not; the TONOR TC30 microphone has sorted you out.
During the microphone tests, we were surprised that for that cheap price the microphone delivered smooth and rich audio, putting it almost at par with much higher-priced microphones.
Equipped with a microphone arm, triple-legged stand, pop filters, and cables for hooking up to your computer, you have all you need for your gaming channel.
In addition, it is perfect for streaming games, creating podcasts, or vlogging at home.
DESIGN:The TONOR TC30 is a well-built good quality microphone that is quite durable. Again for that price you can’t ask much, bet it delivers.
The microphone is easy to set up and better yet, the three-legged metal mic stand is adjustable meaning it folds easily.
- Acoustic Principle: Line Gradient
- Active Electronics: JFET
- Capsule: Condenser Microphone
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Range: 50Hz-20kHz
- Output Impedance: 2.2 Ω
- Maximum SPL: 110 dB
- Maximum Output Level: 7 dBu
- Sensitivity: 38 +/-3dB
- Equivalent Noise Level: 16dB-A
- Power Option: USB, 2m of cable
- Affordable
- Plug and Play
- Smooth and rich sound
- Decent built quality
- Easy to carry
- Works with iOS and Windows
- No on/off power switch
- Sometimes it catches background noise
We tested this microphone for a while. As a result, we could say that the TONOR TC30 microphone has proved itself that if you are looking for the best budget microphone on the market for vlogging, podcasting, or doing some conference calls - it is difficult to find a better alternative. Sometimes the microphone could catch background noise, however, that should not discourage you from buying this great microphone, especially for such a low price.
Bonus Microphones
Audio-Technica AT4050 – Perfect Microphone for Recording Podcasts for YouTube
An established brand of budget and mid-priced microphones Audio Technica has truly evolved over the years. From the AT2010 to the latest model, you will definitely see the different changes when it comes to their features.
A very practical mic, the AT4050 provides a versatile experience due to its different polar patterns. With the noise level of the mic being very low, AT4050 is an excellent choice.
Being a condenser microphone, the mic is also ideal for studio recording and live sound use on piano, vocals, guitar amps, and more like recording podcasts.
It’s also worth mentioning that the microphone also comes with a handy shock mount, protective pouch, as well a thread adapter.
DESIGN:Unlike other brands, Audio Technica really doesn’t care much about showing off its design.
Basically strong build, the entire microphone has a black metal body and black mesh grille divided into a top address configuration. Note that, the only thing breaking this monotonous color is the brand logo at the front of the mic.
- Acoustic Principle: Line Gradient
- Active Electronics: JFET
- Capsule: Condenser Microphone
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8
- Frequency Range: 20Hz-18 kHz
- Maximum SPL: 149 dB
- Maximum Output Level: 7.9 mV at 1V, 1 Pascal
- Sensitivity: 42dB (7.9mV) Inventory 1V/Pa
- Equivalent Noise Level: 17dB
- Weight: 510 g / 1.1 lb
- Output: USB
- Power Option: +48V phantom power
- Amazing sound quality
- Strong build
- Neutral frequency response
- Shock mount and storage punch included
- Looks professional
- On an expensive side
With Audio Technica providing you with the best microphones, AT4050 is no exception. Fantastic for your podcast channel as well as vocals, piano and guitar, this condenser mic is the best investment you can make in 2024. Especially if you are a YouTube pro.
AKG Pro Audio C214 – Perfect Microphone for Recording Vocals
Lastly, we are going to look at the AKG Pro Audio C214 Condenser. A reasonably priced mic compared to its competitors, the C214 doesn’t disappoint.
With only one pickup pattern (cardioid), it captures your sound audio in great detail. Highly suited to record vocals, guitars, and more, the mic’s wide frequency range and high SPL capabilities make it one of the most versatile microphones available.
Designed for superior onstage performance and close-up recording, the mic has a switchable 20dB pad as well as a low-cut filter. These features make it perfect for mostly loud applications such as drumheads and bass sounds.
DESIGN:The AKG C214 is made from all metal, which gives it a robust, sleek design.
However, the upper part is made of a double mesh-grille body. The mesh is made of a durable metal die-hard cast, which has a shock and scratch-resistant finish designed to withstand any prolonged use.
That’s not all though; the double mesh also protects the capsule.
- Acoustic Principle: Pressure Gradient
- Active Electronics: JFET
- Capsule: 1″ large-diaphragm condenser microphone
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Range: 20Hz-20kHz
- Output Impedance: 200 Ω (ohms)
- Maximum SPL: 136 dB
- Maximum Output Level: 10dBu
- Sensitivity: 34 dB
- Equivalent Noise Level: 13dB
- Weight: 280 g / 0,61 lb
- Output: USB
- Power Option: phantom power
- Easy to use
- Extremely durable
- Brightness is not exaggerated and doesn’t sound harsh
- Clear, warm sound with extremely low self–noise
- Matte greyish-blue finish
- It is extra sensitive meaning it picks up background noise easily
Although it’s not ideal for electric bass, the AKG C214 beats all other vocal microphones in this price range - hands down. So whether you are using it for onstage vocal performance or broadcasting, you are guaranteed a highly detailed sound. In our opinion, perfect microphone if you want to record a clip or a song just sitting next to your computer.
Conclusion
To conclude this review, be sure to know what you are going to vlog about, also very important to know where are you going to record YouTube videos. Keep in mind that external mics connected to the camera record the sound without any interruptions or sound waves.
According to our editors’ opinions and test results, you won’t be disappointed with any microphone from this list. These microphones are currently the best choice for any kind of video and are also selected according to different budgets. Your choice depends on the budget and filming experience and level.