YouTube, Instagram, and other forms of social media have become a popular way to communicate and make money.
Over time, the amount of users that stream live videos on these platforms has increased.
If you're thinking of starting to live stream, you may realize how important it is for your audience to be able to hear you clearly and sharply. But, trying to find the best mic for streaming can be a harrowing task.
To help you, we have compiled this list of 11 of the best microphones you can use for your live streaming needs. We also answered some common questions to help you make an informed decision for which is the best mic for streaming for you.
Comparison Table
Microphones for Streaming FAQ
Image via Pixabay
1. What Is a Streaming Microphone?
A microphone is a device that converts sound waves into an electrical signal, allowing them to be recorded, transmitted, or amplified.
For streaming, USB microphones or condenser microphones which have higher sensitivity than other microphones are the best.
2. What Are the Types of Streaming Microphones?
Whether they are condenser microphones or USB microphones, these microphones are classified by their polar patterns. They can be unidirectional, bidirectional, omnidirectional, or multi-pattern.
Unidirectional microphones have multiple polar patterns that can pick up sound from two or three sides, which makes them a great choice for gamers.
Bidirectional microphones pick up sounds from the front and rear, making them ideal for conducting interviews or performing a duet.
Omnidirectional microphones handle sound from any direction, but they also pick up background noise.
And, multi-pattern microphones allow you to choose the directional properties you need for your situation.
3. What Features Should I Look For?
When searching to choose the best mic for streaming, you want to first choose which type of microphone is best for your application, whether it be singing, interviewing, gaming, or conducting a podcast.
Image via Pixabay
Then, you want to check the frequency response (usually measured in Hertz or KiloHertz) and make sure it has a good range so you can have good sound quality, picking up high and low frequencies.
Make sure it is made of good quality materials so it will be durable without being too heavy or cumbersome.
You also want to check the accessories that come with it to make sure you'll have everything you need to operate it and store it easily, such as an adapter, a desktop stand, and a carry bag.
How We Reviewed
We performed independent research on microphones and their types and brands to come up with this list. We also read positive and negative reviews of each microphone from users such as Youtubers, Instagram influencers, audiophiles, and more.
After doing such research, we reviewed each microphone by its features, pros and cons, and where it can be bought. By comparing across these categories, we were able to narrow down our list to these eleven best mics for streaming.
Rode NT-USB Versatile Studio-Quality
- Buy only from Amazon.com (labelled ‘shipped and sold by Amazon.com’)
- High quality studio microphone with the convenience of USB connectivity
- Pop shield, Tripod desk stand, ring mount, storage pouch and 6m (20’) USB cable included
Features
If you're a vocalist, the Rode NT-USB may be the best mic for you. This condenser microphone has a cardioid polar pattern and a frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz.
The input and source output can be controlled through the dials on the side, which sit right above the 3.5mm jack. This zero-latency microphone is powered by a USB port and has a 16-bit resolution.
Another great feature is the pop filter, which can be slid onto the base of the mic to help eliminate plosives.
It has an SPL of 110db and is compatible with Apple iPad. It also comes with great accessories like the tripod desk stand, storage pouch, ring mount, and 20-foot USB cable.
Warranty
This microphone is backed by a 1-year limited warranty.
Pros
Cons
Blue 1967 Yeti Pro USB Condenser Microphone
- Three custom condenser capsules and four different polar pattern settings: Cardioid, Stereo, Bidirectional and Omnidirectional
- Cutting-edge A-D converter chip and separate analog circuit path for use with professional studio mixers and preamps
- Built-in headphone amplifier for zero-latency monitoring, and direct controls for headphone volume, pattern selection, mute, and microphone gain
Features
The Blue 1967 Yeti Pro is one of the most popular and well-known brands out there for streamers and for good reason.
This USB/XLR dual-system microphone comes with three custom condenser capsules and four different polar pattern settings: stereo, bidirectional, cardioid, and omnidirectional.
It features an A-D converter chip and a separate analog circuit path to be used with preamps and professional studio mixers as well. This makes it perfect to use for pretty much any application, from music projects to game streaming to voice overs.
The built-in headphone amplifier allows for zero-latency monitoring, and there are also direct controls for you to customize your pattern selection, headphone volume, microphone gain, and even mute. It has a frequency response of 15Hz to 22kHz.
It also comes with a small stand that you can use as a desktop stand or to connect the microphone to a traditional microphone stand.
If you're looking for a microphone that you can use for anything you need, the Blue Yeti Pro may be the best mic for streaming for you
Warranty
This microphone is backed by a two-year warranty.
Pros
Cons
Blue Yeti USB Microphone
- Custom three-capsule array: Produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for YouTube, game streaming, podcasting, Skype calls and music
- Four pickup patterns: cardioid, Omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns offer incredible flexibility, allowing you to record in ways that would normally require multiple microphones
- Onboard audio controls: Studio controls for headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and microphone gain put you in charge of every level of the recording and streaming process
Features
Yeti has another excellent and universal microphone in the Blue Yeti Blackout Version, which also has three condenser capsules and allows you to select cardioid, bidirectional, stereo, or omnidirectional polar patterns.
Just like the Blue Yeti Pro, this microphone is zero-latency with a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20kHz.
It also has a mute button and gain control and is compatible with Mac OS X and Windows 7, 8, 10, Vista, and XP. It also comes in ten different colors and comes in different bundles, such as one with a Pop Filter.
Warranty
This microphone is backed by a two-year warranty.
Pros
Cons
USB Microphone, Fifine Metal Condenser Recording Microphone for Laptop MAC or Windows
- Plug and play Usb recording microphone with 5.9-Foot USB Cable included for computer PC laptop that connects directly to USB port for record music,computer singing or podcast. Easy to use and install on Mac or PC. (◆◆Not compatible with Xbox and Phones◆◆)
- Solid sturdy metal construction design computer microphone with stable tripod stand is convenient when you are doing voice overs or livestreams on YouTube.
- Recording microphone with additional volume knob itself has a louder output and is more sensitive,your voice would be heard well enough when gaming ,skyping or voice recording.
Features
If portability and ease of use are some of the most important factors, then the Fifine Metal Condenser Microphone may be the best mic for streaming for you. This USB microphone has a cardioid polar pattern, allowing it to cut down on background noise.
There is no need for drivers, so it can be used with a variety of devices. It comes with a stand with wide-angle adjustment and a volume adjusting knob. It can be attached to a traditional microphone stand or a boom mic.
Warranty
This microphone is backed by a two-year warranty.
Pros
Cons
Razer Seiren Elite USB Streaming Microphone
- Professional Grade Single dynamic capsule ensures minimal electronic interference for a richer, warmer and true to life broadcasting experience
- Built in High Pass Filter Cuts out unwanted low frequency vibrations (footsteps or the rumbles of an air conditioner) to provide only the cleanest recording signals
- Digital/Analog Vocal Limiter
Features
The Razer Seiren Elite is a USB microphone that features a pro-grade single dynamic capsule and a built-in, high-pass filter that cuts out low-frequency vibrations, providing a warm, rich, and clean sound quality.
It has zero-latency monitoring and a digital and analog vocal limiter that eliminates distortion.
It also has a 16-bit/48kHz resolution and durable metal construction. If you're looking for a mic for gaming broadcasts, this may be the best mic for streaming for you.
Warranty
This microphone is backed by a 2-year warranty.
Pros
Cons
- The price/performance standard in side address studio condenser microphone technology
- Ideal for project/home studio applications; The noise level is 20 dB SPL
- High SPL handling and wide dynamic range provide unmatched versatility
Features
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is another great budget microphone that doesn't skimp on quality and features a low mass diaphragm and a ruggedly designed construction.
This cardioid microphone can handle high sound pressures up to 144dB easily, with a frequency response range of 20Hz to 20kHz and a sensitivity of -37 dB.
It has an Integral 3-pin XLRM output connector and features black speckles on the finish. It comes with a threaded, pivoting, stand mount for 5/8"-27 threaded stands, a 3/8"-16 threaded adapter, and a soft protective pouch.
Warranty
This microphone is backed by a 1-year warranty.
Pros
Cons
- Large (25mm) diaphragm condenser for rich audio recording
- Cardioid pickup pattern
- Smooth, flat frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz
Features
If you're looking for an adaptable microphone for voice recording and podcasts that is affordable and portable, the Samson Meteor Mic may be the best mic for streaming you can find.
This cardioid microphone has a compact design with foldable tripod legs and an integrated mic stand adapter on the bottom. It has a 1/8-inch headphone output for no latency monitoring as well as a headphone volume knob and a mute button.
This microphone can connect to any device via USB, with no need for drivers, and has a standard 3.5mm jack on the back.
The large 25mm diaphragm condenser provides a rich, mellow sound, and it has a 16-bit, 44.1/48kHz resolution. You have three different finishes to choose from, and it comes with the USB cable and a carry pouch.
Warranty
This microphone is backed by a 1-year warranty.
Pros
Cons
Rode NT1-A Anniversary Vocal Cardioid Condenser Microphone Package
- Large diaphragm 1” gold-sputtered capsule
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Ultra-low noise, self-noise of only 5dB (A)
Features
Rode provides another best mic for streaming with the Rode NT1-A, a cardioid microphone that features a large 1" capsule with a gold plated condenser diaphragm to provide a warm, extended, dynamic range.
This microphone has a self-noise level of only 5dBA, making it one of the world's quietest studio microphones.
It has a frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz, a high maximum SPL of 137db, and a sensitivity of -31dB. It comes with a shock mount, a studio-grade pop filter, 20-foot microphone cable, a dust cover, and an instructional video.
Warranty
This microphone is backed by a 10-year extended warranty once registered on the Rode website.
Pros
Cons
Shure MV5 Digital Condenser Microphone (Gray) + USB & Lightning Cable
- Custom-tuned microphone capsule provides superior audio
- iOS and USB connectivity offers instant setup at home or on the go - no need for additional adapters or connection kits (Apple MFi certified)
- Record, edit, and share recordings from the free ShurePlus MOTIV iOS app
Features
The Shure MV5 is an excellent USB condenser microphone that makes recording a breeze.
It features a built-in headphone output for no-latency transmission and is fitted with 3 DSP preset modes (flat, vocals, and instrument) with a 24-bit/48kHz resolution.
It automatically applies EQ, gain, limiting, and compression to your audio to provide the best results possible.
This cardioid microphone is designed to work with Apple mobile devices without having to use any adapters, and it also can be connected using the included 3-foot MicroB-to-USB cable and MicroB-to-Lightning cable.
It also comes with an anodized aluminum desktop stand and a 1/4" integrated thread mount. It is small and portable, measuring 2.5" x 7cm without the stand and 5.4" x 14cm on the stand, and available in two different colors.
Warranty
This microphone is backed by a 2-year warranty.
Pros
Cons
- Extended upper clarity with smooth mid frequencies for any voice or instrument
- Hand-built proprietary large-diaphragm cardioid capsule for full, open sound
- High-pass filter and -20dB pad for ultimate versatility
Features
The Blue Microphones Bluebird SL is another excellent, high-end microphone created by the same manufacturers of the Yeti.
It has a switchable 100Hz high-pass filter, -20dB pad, large gold-sputter Mylar diaphragm, and a sculpted rear backplate that all combine to deliver crystal clear, resonant, full, and balanced sound that captures the true tones of voices and instruments.
This cardioid microphone has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz and a high maximum SPL of 138dB. It comes with a custom shock mount and a wooden storage box.
Warranty
This microphone is backed by a 2-year warranty.
Pros
Cons
- Custom condenser capsule offers crystal clear audio for Skype, Messages and FaceTime
- Record vocals, create podcasts, and add narration to your home movies
- Add crystal clear audio to recordings for YouTube. Frequency Response: 40 –18 kHz
Features
Simplicity, affordability, and quality are common words that describe the Blue Snowball iCE, which is a cardioid condenser microphone that is perfect for podcasts and narration.
This plug-and-play microphone easily connects to computers with Mac OSX or Windows 7,8, and 10 operating systems without the need for drivers.
It has a frequency range of 40Hz to 18kHz and a 16-bit/44.1kHz resolution. It comes with a 6-foot USB cable and adjustable desktop stand with an optional ringer shock mount.
Warranty
This microphone is backed by a 2-year warranty.
Pros
Cons
The Verdict: The Best Mic for Streaming
After comparing these eleven great microphones, we chose the Blue 1967 Yeti Pro as the best mic for streaming.
One of the most outstanding features of this microphone is the three custom condenser capsules, four different polar pattern settings, A-D converter chip, and analog circuit path that let you use it for any streaming use you need, whether it's for professional studio use with vocals and instruments or for gaming, podcasts, voiceovers, and more.
We also love the zero-latency monitoring that gives real-time monitoring and the amount of control you have over the mic's settings.
Add in the wide frequency range, included stand, and two-year warranty, and this is the perfect mic for anyone who wants to stream.
If you're just starting and have a lower budget, then we highly recommend the Fifine Metal Condenser Microphone. Whichever you chose, you'll definitely be getting the best mic for streaming for your next project.
We also love the zero-latency monitoring that gives real-time monitoring and the amount of control you have over the mic's settings.
Add in the wide frequency range, included stand, and two-year warranty, and this is the perfect mic for anyone who wants to stream.
If you're just starting and have a lower budget, then we highly recommend the Fifine Metal Condenser Microphone. Whichever you chose, you'll definitely be getting the best mic for streaming for your next project.
Featured Image from Pixabay
Last update on 2021-02-25 at 21:37 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
