In this blog, I have covered my top 7 favorite PC microphones, which are the best. As you know, when it comes to choosing microphones, we all get confused, and literally anyone can get confused because the availability of microphones in the market is overwhelming.
To choose the best out of them is like finding a needle in a haystack, but don’t worry, I have found that needle in the haystack.
The PC microphones that I have chosen are best for your PC, whether you are streaming, podcasting, gaming, or simply attending online meetings. This list is perfect for anyone who wants clear and crisp audio.
Are you ready? If you are, then let’s go…
Table Of Contents
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My Top PC Microphones
1. Blue Yeti
Why I Chose This
The Blue Yeti’s multiple pickup patterns provide flexibility for different recording environments, from solo recordings to group discussions. It also provides clear and detailed audio across various applications, making it one of the best PC microphones for content creators and professionals.
Its built-in gain control and mute button offer quick adjustments, which enhance the overall user experience. However, due to its sensitivity, it can pick up background noise, so it’s best to use it in a quiet room and environment.
Key Features
- Multiple Pickup Patterns: This microphone has four different recording modes, which are: cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, and stereo. These modes allow you to adjust how the microphone picks up sound, so it works well in various situations.
- Onboard Controls: It has easy-to-use buttons to control volume, mute, and adjust the sound, all right on the mic itself.
- Built-in Headphone Output: With the help of this feature you can listen to your recordings instantly to make sure the sound is captured correctly.
- Adjustable Stand: It comes with an adjustable stand which helps you easily position the microphone and keeps it steady while you use it.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕Versatile recording options with multiple polar patterns. | ➖ May capture unwanted background noise in less controlled environments. |
| ➕ User-friendly with plug-and-play setup. | ➖ Larger size may not be ideal for all desk setups. |
| ➕ Solid build quality and professional design. | |
| ➕ Onboard controls for easy adjustments. |
Specifications
| Microphone Type: Condenser |
| Polar Patterns: Cardioid, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional, Stereo |
| Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Bit Depth/Sample Rate: 16-bit/48 kHz |
| Maximum SPL: 120 dB |
| Connectivity: USB |
| Dimensions: 4.7 x 4.9 x 11.6 inches |
| Weight: 3.4 pounds |
2. Shure MV7+
Why I Choose This
The Shure MV7+ is a popular choice among PC microphones for podcasters, streamers, and content creators because of its great sound quality and flexible connection options. This microphone works with both USB and XLR, which makes it easy to use in different setups.
It gives clear and natural sound and blocks background noise. With the help of the ShurePlus MOTIV app, you can easily adjust the sound.
Key Features
- Dual Connectivity: This microphone has two options: USB and XLR. You can plug it into a computer or a professional audio setup
- Built-in Touch Controls: It has touch buttons which allow you to quickly adjust the headphone volume, microphone level, or you can mute the mic easily.
- Real-Time Monitoring: It has a 3.5mm headphone jack that helps you listen to your recordings instantly, without taking time.
- ShurePlus MOTIV App Integration: When you connect the MV7 via USB, you can use the ShurePlus MOTIV app. This app gives you extra controls like adjusting the sound level, changing the tone, and setting the distance, which helps you improve sound quality.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕Versatile connectivity with both USB-C and XLR outputs. | ➖You need the ShurePlus MOTIV app for advanced features, and it works only with USB. |
| ➕High-quality sound tailored for vocal recordings. | |
| ➕Real-time monitoring through the headphone jack. | |
| ➕Strong and professional design. |
Specifications
| Microphone Type: Dynamic |
| Polar Pattern: Cardioid |
| Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 16 kHz |
| Connectivity: USB-C and XLR |
| Headphone Output: 3.5mm jack |
| Dimensions: 4.3 x 5.9 x 10 inches |
| Weight: 1.21 pounds |
3. HyperX QuadCast S
Why I Choose This
The HyperX QuadCast S is a USB microphone that is made for gamers, streamers, and creators. As one of the top PC microphones, it features a customizable RGB lighting option, adding which looks cool, and it gives great sound quality.
This microphone is perfect for streaming, podcasts, and voiceovers. It has four sound modes, so you can pick which suits your needs.
Key Features
- Customizable RGB Lighting: The QuadCast S has colorful lights that you can change using HyperX NGENUITY software, which allows you to make the microphone match your setup.
- Four Polar Patterns: It has four sound modes: stereo, omnidirectional, cardioid, and bidirectional, so you can choose according to your recording needs.
- Built-in Anti-Vibration Shock Mount: It has a shock mount feature that reduces noise from movements or vibrations to make your recordings sound clearer.
- Tap-to-Mute Sensor with LED Indicator: It has a tap-to-mute button on top, so you can easily mute it. It also has an LED light which shows if the microphone is muted or active.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕Compatible with PC, PS4, PS5, and Mac, catering to a wide range of users. | ➖The internal pop filter might need extra accessories for best performance. |
| ➕Eye-catching customizable RGB lighting adds a unique aesthetic to setups. | ➖Its size and design make it less portable, not ideal for on-the-go recording. |
| ➕Multiple polar pattern options offer flexibility for different recording situations. | |
| ➕Easy features like the tap-to-mute sensor and shock mount improve usability. |
Specifications
| Microphone Type: Condenser |
| Polar Patterns: Stereo, Omnidirectional, Cardioid, Bidirectional |
| Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Bit Depth: 16-bit |
| Sampling Rate: 48 kHz |
| Sensitivity: -36 dB (1V/Pa at 1 kHz) |
| Cable Length: 3 meters |
| Weight: Microphone: 254g, Shock mount and stand: 360g |
4. Audio-Technica AT2020
Why I Choose This
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is made for home recording, podcasting, and studio use. It is known as an affordable and well-performing microphone, which makes it a good choice for beginners.
It gives clear and natural sound, and captures both low and high frequencies clearly. According to its design, this microphone picks up sound from the front and reduces background noise.
Key Features
- Cardioid Polar Pattern: This microphone picks up sound mainly from the front, which reduces the noise from back and sides.
- Wide Frequency Response: It covers a wide range of frequencies, which provides clear and detailed sound.
- Durable Build: The AT2020 is made with strong materials, which makes it durable for regular use.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕It’s affordable, costing around $99 only, and offers great value for its performance. | ➖You’ll need an audio interface or mixer with phantom power. |
| ➕Durable Construction, perfect for both studio and live use. | ➖Doesn’t have built-in volume or filter settings. |
| ➕Delivers clear and detailed sound. |
Specifications
| Microphone Type: Condenser |
| Polar Pattern: Cardioid |
| Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Sensitivity: -37 dBV/Pa |
| Impedance: 100 ohms |
| Maximum SPL: 144 dB |
| Weight: 345 grams |
| Dimensions: 162 mm (length) x 52 mm (diameter) |
5. Razer Seiren Mini
Why I Choose This
The Razer Seiren Mini is a small USB microphone that is specially made for streaming, podcasting, and video calls. As one of the most affordable PC microphones, It’s affordable and portable, but when it comes to performance, it is super duper.
It provides clear sound. Its supercardioid pattern helps it pick up sound mainly from the front and cut out noise from the sides and back.
Key Features
- Compact Design: It’s small and lightweight, which makes it easy to carry and makes it perfect for tight spaces.
- Plug-and-Play Functionality: It’s very easy to connect; you can connect it through USB, which works right away and doesn’t need any extra drivers or software.
- Supercardioid Polar Pattern: This pattern allows it to pick up sound from the front, and cut out noise from the sides and back.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕Affordable and priced around $50, offers excellent value. | ➖Limited features, lacks onboard controls like gain or mute buttons. |
| ➕Its compact size makes it easy to carry and perfect for small spaces. | ➖The stand is short, so you may need to place your mouth closer to it. |
| ➕Easy to use, Plug in and go—no extra software needed. |
Specifications
| Microphone Type: Condenser |
| Polar Pattern: Supercardioid |
| Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Sample Rate: 44.1 kHz / 48 kHz |
| Bit Depth: 16-bit |
| Weight: 282 grams |
| Dimensions: 57.2 x 163 x 90 mm |
6. Elgato Wave:3
Why I Choose This
The Elgato Wave:3 is a USB microphone, and it gives high-quality sound, making it a top choice among PC microphones for content creators, streamers, and podcasters.
It offers clear and detailed audio, which makes it perfect for different uses. When it comes to pricing, its performance and capabilities justify its investment.
Key Features
- Cardioid Polar Pattern: It captures sound from front and effectively reduces background noise from the sides and rear.
- High-Resolution Audio: It supports 24-bit/96 kHz audio, which means it provides very detailed and accurate sound quality for a better listening and recording experience.
- Clipguard Technology: this technology automatically controls sudden loud sounds to prevent distortion, and ensures the audio quality stays clear and consistent.
- Wave Link Software: This software offers advanced features which allows you to mix and manage multiple audio sources for smooth control.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕Clear and Full Audio | ➖Limited to Cardioid Pattern |
| ➕Advanced Audio Mixing | ➖Higher Price Point |
| ➕Automatic Distortion Prevention |
Specifications
| Microphone Type: Condenser |
| Polar Pattern: Cardioid |
| Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Sample Rate: 24-bit / 96 kHz |
| Connection: USB-C to USB-A |
| Weight: 305 grams |
| Dimensions: 163 x 57 x 90 mm |
7. Samson G-Track Pro
Why I Choose This
The Samson G-Track Pro is a flexible USB microphone, it is designed for musicians, podcasters, and content creators.
It’s a high-quality microphone with a built-in audio interface and mixer, so you can record vocals and instruments at the same time. It provides excellent audio quality and multiple pickup patterns which meet all the recording needs and earns its spot amongst the top PC microphones.
Key Features
- Three Pickup Patterns: Cardioid, bidirectional, and omnidirectional patterns provide flexibility for different recording scenarios.
- Built-in Audio Interface: It Has a 1/4″ input to connect guitars or other devices, which allows you to record vocals and instruments at the same time.
- Onboard Mixer: It includes separate volume controls for the microphone and instrument inputs, along with a handy mute button.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕High-Quality Recording | ➖Limited Background Noise Rejection |
| ➕Flexible Pickup Patterns | |
| ➕Integrated Audio Interface | |
| ➕User-Friendly Controls |
Specifications
| Microphone Type: Condenser |
| Polar Patterns: Cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional |
| Frequency Response: 50Hz–20kHz |
| Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz |
| Connectivity: USB |
| Instrument Input: 1/4″ |
| Headphone Output: 1/8″ stereo with zero-latency monitoring |
Criteria For Selection
When choosing PC microphones, keep in mind these important factors:
Sound Quality and Clarity:
This is the most important factor for a microphone. When you are looking for PC microphones, choose a microphone with a flat frequency response, which means it captures sound without adding any unwanted tones
Build Quality and Durability:
The build quality of a microphone defines its age, and if you are a traveler and want to carry that microphone with you, then definitely go for its durability and build quality. A well-built microphone will definitely last longer.
Value for Money:
Higher prices don’t mean better quality; sometimes, an expensive product can’t provide the same quality that a less expensive one does. Consider your budget and then select a microphone that offers the best features within your price range.
Limitations of USB Mics
By the way, these PC microphones are easy to use and considered good for beginners, but, when it comes to sound quality, they fall short compared to XLR microphones. This happens because USB microphones combine the mic and digital converter in one device, which can reduce audio depth and detail.
They also have fewer features in comparison to XLR, lacking options like gain control, high-pass filters, or multiple polar patterns, which can limit their versatility.
Additionally, they are not ideal for expanding your setup later, as you can only use one USB microphone at a time, unlike XLR systems that support multiple mics.
Overall, USB microphones are great for basic use, but XLR microphones are better for serious recordings.
Conclusion
In the end, I just want to say that choosing PC microphones totally depends on your needs and how you plan to use it. Each microphone has its own strengths.
For example, the Blue Yeti is a favorite for its versatility and simplicity, while the Shure MV7+ offers professional-grade sound and works for both USB and XLR setups.
If you’re a streamer who values style and performance, the HyperX QuadCast S is a great choice. The Audio-Technica AT2020 delivers dependable sound clarity for creators, while the compact Razer Seiren Mini is perfect for portable setups.
For gamers and streamers who prefer easy controls, the Elgato Wave:3 is a standout. Lastly, multitaskers will appreciate the Samson G-Track Pro, which combines a microphone and audio interface in one.
So, it’s totally depends on you and what you need.
Have you enjoyed reading this blog? If yes, then which microphone are you going to buy? Let me know in the comments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. What is the difference between USB and XLR microphones?
A. USB microphones are beginner-friendly and offer easy plug-and-play use. XLR microphones provide superior sound quality, advanced control, and flexibility, making them the preferred choice for professionals.
No extra equipment is needed for USB microphones, so you can start recording without any hassle. They are great for casual use, podcasting, and streaming.
Whereas XLR microphones need an audio interface or mixer to connect to your computer. These mics offer better depth and clarity, and they allow for multiple microphones. They’re commonly used in studios and for high-quality recordings.
Q. What is a polar pattern, and which one should I choose?
A. A polar pattern describes the direction from which a microphone captures sound. These are the common polar patterns:
Cardioid: This pattern captures sound primarily from the front and reduces pickup from the sides and rear. It is ideal for solo recordings.
Omnidirectional: It captures sound equally from all directions. Suitable for recording group discussions or ambient sounds.
Bidirectional: This pattern captures sound from the front and rear and rejects sound from the sides. It is useful for interviews or duet recordings.
Q. Do I need a pop filter for my microphone?
A. A pop filter is a screen placed between your mouth and the microphone to reduce popping sounds from plosive consonants like “P” and “B.” It helps you achieve clearer recordings by minimizing air bursts that can distort audio quality.
Q. Can I use a gaming headset microphone for streaming or podcasting?
A. Gaming headset microphones work for in-game chats but usually lack the clarity needed for streaming or podcasting. A dedicated external microphone offers better sound quality and makes your content more professional and enjoyable for your audience.
These are designed primarily for in-game communication, not for high-quality recordings. They lack depth, clarity, and noise isolation.
Q. What is microphone sensitivity, and why is it important?
A. Microphone sensitivity measures how well a mic converts sound into an electrical signal. Higher sensitivity captures quieter sounds (like whispered vocals and acoustic instruments) with more detail, reducing the need for extra amplification. This is crucial for clear audio in quiet environments.
