Best USB Microphones for Gaming
Similarly to podcasters, Twitch streamers and gamers need a USB microphone with a cardioid pickup pattern, to keep their voice as the main focus. There are many models now with built-in pop filters, which give even more security and control over your recording.
Best USB Microphone for Vocals and Instruments
If you’ve bought a condenser mic for podcasting and gaming, that’s also going to be a good option for your vocals and instrument recordings. There are plenty of options with an integrated stand so they can comfortably sit on your studio desk while you’re recording!
The 5 best USB microphones (2021)
5. Marantz MPM1000U
This is probably the best option for those who are approaching podcasting and live streaming and want a good mic at an affordable price point. The Marantz MPM1000U is a condenser microphone delivering high-quality recordings with extended frequency response and low noise. Plug it straight into your laptop or phone and start recording your next episode!
4. Audio-Technica AT2020USB+
Audio Technica have developed a USB version of the AT2020, delivering the same incredible quality in a compact and standalone mic. The AT2020USB+ is ideal for podcasters, YouTubers and anyone who wants to record on the go. It features a built-in headphone jack with volume control that allows you to directly monitor your microphone signal with no delay. It also offers mix control that blends microphone and pre-recorded audio.
3. Shure MV7-K
If you’re looking for a professional solution for your live streams and podcasts, the Shure MV7-K is the right one for you. It’s the brand’s first hybrid USB/XLR microphone, meaning that you’ll be able to connect it both directly into your laptop and into your audio interface!
It incorporates a highly directional dynamic design and voice isolation tech to provide the best rendition of your voice possible. What’s more, the built-in touch panel allows you to quickly tweak and adjust the sound to your likings.
2. RØDE NT-USB
The NT-USB is the USB microphone in the RØDE NT line, that offers high-quality condenser mics for any application. The NT-USB plugs directly into your laptop, mobile phone and tablet and also features a headphone output for monitoring. The cherry on top is that it also comes with an all-metal pop shield, a handy desktop stand and a 6 meter USB cable, allowing you to have your recording studio anywhere you go!
1. RØDE NT-USB MINI
The best USB microphone in our chart is the RØDE NT-USB MINI compact desk mount microphone. It packs excellent audio quality in a small footprint, making it the best option for podcasters, live streamers or music producers always on the go, who don’t want to sacrifice quality. The condenser capsule is designed to isolate your voice, keeping it crisp and clear, moreover, the NT-USB MINI has a built-in pop filter that eliminates ambient noise and distortion. The integrated free software RØDE Connect also makes podcasting more fun, allowing you to use up to 64 custom sounds.