USB microphones have become popular for recording high-quality audio at home. These devices plug straight into a computer’s USB port. They’re easy to use and don’t need extra equipment. USB mics work well for podcasts, video calls, and music recording.
Many USB microphones can match the sound of more expensive studio gear. They come in different shapes and sizes. Some are made for specific uses like singing or speaking. USB mics often have built-in features such as volume control and mute buttons.
When buying a USB mic, it’s important to think about what you’ll use it for. Consider the mic’s pickup pattern, which affects how it captures sound from different directions. The frequency response is also key. It tells you what pitches the mic can record well. We tested many USB microphones to find the best ones for different needs.
Best USB Microphones – Overall Ranking (2024)
Here is the ranking of the best USB microphones:
| Ranking | Microphone | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Blue Yeti USB Mic | Clear, broadcast-quality sound; Four pickup patterns; Easy-to-use controls | Large size takes up desk space; Picks up background noise; Pricey for casual users |
| 2 | Rode PodMic USB | Dual XLR and USB-C outputs; Built-in pop filter and shock mount; Customizable sound with app | Heavier than some USB mics; Needs separate stand or boom arm; High price point for beginners |
| 3 | FIFINE USB Mic | Easy plug-and-play setup; Sturdy metal build; Built-in volume control | Picks up background noise; Not for pro-level recording; No mute button |
| 4 | JOUNIVO Gooseneck USB Mic | Easy to set up and use; Adjustable gooseneck design; Mute button with LED indicator | Not for pro-level audio; Picks up some background noise; No volume control on mic |
| 5 | HyperX SoloCast Mic | Easy plug-and-play setup; Tap-to-mute feature; Works with most boom arms | Only one pickup pattern; Stand could be sturdier; May pick up background noise |
| 6 | Shure MV7 Pro Mic | Dual USB/XLR outputs; Easy-to-use touch controls; Sturdy metal build | Pricier than some USB mics; Needs a stand or boom arm; Software required for best results |
| 7 | HyperX QuadCast S Mic | Eye-catching RGB lighting; Four polar patterns; Built-in shock mount and pop filter | Pricier than some other USB mics; Software needed for full lighting control; May be overkill for basic recording |
| 8 | COCONISE RGB Gaming Mic | Eye-catching RGB lighting effects; Easy-to-use mute button and volume control; Sturdy build | Light stays on when plugged in; May pick up some background noise; USB cable could be longer |
| 9 | TONOR G11 USB Mic | Easy plug-and-play setup; Picks up sound from all directions; Has a mute button with light | Not ideal for music recording; Cable can’t be replaced; Mute button sometimes unresponsive |
| 10 | MAONO USB Mic | Clear audio pickup; Easy setup; Comes with useful accessories | Arm clamp could be sturdier; No mute button; May pick up background noise |
Best USB Microphones by Category
Here are the winners assigned to different categories based on their strengths and features:
| Category | Winner | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Best for Streaming | Blue Yeti USB Mic | Offers versatile pickup patterns, clear broadcast-quality sound, and easy controls. |
| Best for Gaming | HyperX QuadCast S Mic | RGB lighting, built-in shock mount, and multiple polar patterns for a dynamic gaming setup. |
| Best for Podcasting | Shure MV7 Pro Mic | Dual USB/XLR outputs, touch controls, and high-quality sound tailored for voice recording. |
| Best for Singing | Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ | Excellent clarity and detail capture, ideal for vocal performances. |
| Best for Capturing Instruments | Rode PodMic USB | Dual output options and clear, rich sound quality for recording musical instruments. |
| Best for Beginners | FIFINE USB Mic | Affordable, plug-and-play setup, and good sound quality for entry-level users. |
| Best for Budget Users | Blue Snowball iCE | Low cost, solid performance, and easy setup for casual use. |
| Best for Portability | JOUNIVO Gooseneck USB Mic | Compact design with flexible positioning, ideal for travel and on-the-go use. |
| Best for Group Calls | TONOR G11 USB Mic | Picks up sound from all directions, perfect for group meetings and conference calls. |
| Best for Gamers on a Budget | COCONISE RGB Gaming Mic | Affordable with fun RGB lighting and solid sound for gaming chats. |
| Best for Home Studios | HyperX SoloCast Mic | Simple setup, clear audio, and compatible with boom arms for flexible positioning. |
| Best for Content Creators | HyperX QuadCast S Mic | Multiple patterns, cool lighting, and built-in features make it perfect for streaming and videos. |
| Best for Flexibility | Shure MV7 Pro Mic | Offers both USB and XLR outputs, adaptable to both beginner and professional setups. |
Best USB Microphones
We’ve put together a list of top USB microphones. These mics plug right into your computer. They’re great for recording music, podcasts, and video calls.
Blue Yeti USB Mic
We think the Blue Yeti USB Mic is a top choice for most people who want clear sound for streaming and podcasting.
Pros
- Clear, broadcast-quality sound
- Four pickup patterns for flexibility
- Easy-to-use controls
Cons
- Large size takes up desk space
- Picks up background noise
- Pricey for casual users
The Blue Yeti USB Mic gives us pro-level sound without the fuss. We love how it plugs right into our computer and starts working. No extra gear needed. The sound is crisp and full, perfect for YouTube videos or podcast recording.
We found the four pickup patterns super handy. We can use just one mic for different jobs. The cardioid mode is great for streaming. Omnidirectional works well for group chats. We even recorded some music with the stereo mode.
The on-board controls are a nice touch. We can adjust the volume, mute the mic, or change the gain right on the unit. No need to fiddle with software settings. The stand lets us point the mic where we need it. But it’s big, so it might crowd a small desk.
Rode PodMic USB
We think the Rode PodMic USB is a top pick for podcasters and streamers who want great sound quality and flexibility.
Pros
- Dual XLR and USB-C outputs
- Built-in pop filter and shock mount
- Customizable sound with RODE Central app
Cons
- Heavier than some USB mics
- Needs separate stand or boom arm
- High price point for beginners
The Rode PodMic USB packs a punch for its size. We found the sound quality rich and clear when testing it for podcasts and voice chats. The built-in pop filter works well to cut down on those pesky “p” and “b” sounds.
We love how easy it is to switch between USB and XLR. For home recording, we just plugged it into our computer with USB. At a studio, we used the XLR output with a mixer. The zero-latency headphone jack lets us hear ourselves without delay.
The RODE Central app lets us tweak the sound. We played with the settings to get our voices sounding just right. The mic feels solid and well-built. It should last a long time with proper care. While it’s on the pricier side, we think the quality and features make it worth it for serious content creators.
FIFINE USB Mic
We think this mic is a solid choice for most people who need good sound on a budget.
Pros
- Easy plug-and-play setup
- Sturdy metal build
- Built-in volume control
Cons
- Picks up background noise
- Not for pro-level recording
- No mute button
We tested the FIFINE USB mic and found it works great for basic recording needs. It’s super simple to use – just plug it in and you’re ready to go. No extra software or drivers needed.
The metal body feels tough. We don’t worry about it breaking if we bump it. The stand keeps it steady on our desk. We like that we can adjust the volume right on the mic. It’s handy when we need to make quick changes.
Sound quality is good for the price. Our voice comes through clear in calls and recordings. It’s much better than a built-in laptop mic. But it’s not studio quality. We notice it picks up some room noise too.
For most people doing casual recording, streaming, or video calls, this mic will do the job well. It’s a big step up from basic mics without spending too much. If you need pro-level audio, you’ll want to look at pricier options. But for everyday use, the FIFINE USB mic is a solid pick.
JOUNIVO Gooseneck USB Mic
We think this mic is a good pick for clear sound at a low price.
Pros
- Easy to set up and use
- Adjustable gooseneck design
- Mute button with LED indicator
Cons
- Not for pro-level audio
- Picks up some background noise
- No volume control on mic
This mic plugs right into a USB port. We found it worked fast with no extra steps. The long neck bends to get close to your mouth. This helps it catch your voice well.
The sound is clear for calls and basic recording. It’s not studio quality, but it’s much better than built-in laptop mics. We like the mute button on top. A green light shows when it’s on.
It works for Windows and Mac computers. The cord is long enough to place it where you need. While it cuts some noise, it still picks up loud sounds nearby. For the price, it’s a solid choice for everyday use.
HyperX SoloCast Mic
We think the HyperX SoloCast is a great buy for streamers and gamers who want good sound without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Easy plug-and-play setup
- Tap-to-mute feature
- Works with most boom arms
Cons
- Only one pickup pattern
- Stand could be sturdier
- May pick up background noise
The HyperX SoloCast is a USB mic that’s super easy to use. We plugged it in and it worked right away. No fuss, no extra software needed. This is perfect for people who don’t want to spend hours setting up their gear.
One thing we really like is the tap-to-mute feature. There’s a sensor on top of the mic. Just tap it, and you’re muted. A light shows if you’re live or not. It’s so handy when you need to cough or take a quick break during a stream.
The sound quality is good for the price. It picks up voices clearly. But it only has one pickup pattern. This means it might catch some unwanted noise from your room. If you have a quiet space, this won’t be a big issue.
We found the stand okay, but not great. It works, but it’s a bit wobbly. The good news is you can use this mic with most boom arms. This lets you position it just right for your setup.
For streamers and gamers on a budget, the SoloCast is a solid choice. It gives you clear audio without too many bells and whistles. Just remember, you might need to play around with your room setup to get the best sound.
Shure MV7 Pro Mic
We think the Shure MV7 is a top choice for podcasters and streamers who want great sound without a complex setup.
Pros
- Dual USB/XLR outputs
- Easy-to-use touch controls
- Sturdy metal build
Cons
- Pricier than some USB mics
- Needs a stand or boom arm
- Software required for best results
The Shure MV7 is a step up from basic USB mics. It gives clear, pro-level sound for podcasts, streams, and voice recordings. We like how it connects to computers and audio gear with both USB and XLR. This makes it work for home setups and pro studios.
We found the touch panel on the mic very handy. It lets us change volume and mute quickly while recording. The metal body feels solid and looks good on camera. It can handle bumps and travel without breaking.
The MV7 shines when used with Shure’s MOTIV app. The app has presets that make voices sound great with little effort. We can save our own settings too. This mic picks up voices well and cuts down on room noise. It’s not cheap, but the quality matches the price for serious content creators.
HyperX QuadCast S Mic
We think the HyperX QuadCast S is a top pick for streamers and podcasters who want great sound and cool RGB lighting.
Pros
- Eye-catching RGB lighting
- Four polar patterns for different uses
- Built-in shock mount and pop filter
Cons
- Pricier than some other USB mics
- Software needed for full lighting control
- May be overkill for basic recording
The QuadCast S looks amazing on any desk. Its RGB lighting adds a fun touch to streams or videos. We found the light easy to customize with the HyperX software.
Sound quality is where this mic shines. We tested all four polar patterns and each one worked well for different tasks. The cardioid mode was perfect for streaming, while the omnidirectional setting picked up a whole room for podcasts.
We love the built-in features. The shock mount kept desk bumps from ruining our audio. The pop filter helped smooth out harsh sounds. Tapping the top to mute was super handy during long recording sessions.
The mic plugs in via USB and works right away on PC, Mac, and PS4. We had no trouble setting it up on different systems. The stand feels sturdy, but you can also mount it on a boom arm for more placement options.
While it costs more than basic USB mics, we think the QuadCast S is worth it for serious content creators. Its mix of great sound and flashy looks makes it stand out from the crowd.
COCONISE RGB Gaming Mic
We think this mic is a solid choice for gamers and streamers who want good sound and cool RGB lights.
Pros
- Eye-catching RGB lighting effects
- Easy-to-use mute button and volume control
- Sturdy build with weighted base
Cons
- Light stays on when plugged in
- May pick up some background noise
- USB cable could be longer for some setups
We tested out the COCONISE Gaming Microphone and were quite happy with its performance. The sound quality is clear and crisp, which is great for gaming chats and streaming. We really liked the RGB lighting – it adds a fun touch to our setup and helps us know when the mic is on or muted.
The mic is easy to set up. We just plugged it in and it worked right away with our PC and PS4. The mute button on top is handy, and we found ourselves using it often during intense gaming moments. The volume knob at the bottom lets us adjust levels quickly without fiddling with software.
One thing to note is that the mic picks up sound mostly from the front, which is good for reducing side noise. But it might still catch some keyboard clicks if you’re a heavy typer. The metal stand feels solid and keeps the mic steady, even when we got a bit rowdy during gameplay.
We think this COCONISE mic is a good value for its price. It’s not top-of-the-line, but it does the job well for casual streamers and gamers. The build quality impressed us, and the extra features like the headphone jack for monitoring are nice touches. If you want a step up from a basic headset mic without breaking the bank, this could be a good fit for your setup.
TONOR G11 USB Mic
We think the TONOR G11 is a solid choice for anyone needing a simple USB mic for video calls or recordings.
Pros
- Easy plug-and-play setup
- Picks up sound from all directions
- Has a mute button with light
Cons
- Not ideal for music recording
- Cable can’t be replaced
- Mute button sometimes unresponsive
We tried out the TONOR G11 USB mic for our video meetings. It was super easy to set up – we just plugged it in and it worked right away. No need to mess with drivers or settings.
The mic picked up voices well from all around the table. We could sit about 10 feet away and still be heard clearly. This made it great for small group calls where we didn’t all have to huddle close to the mic.
We liked the mute button on top. It lit up blue when the mic was on, which was handy. But a few times we had to press it more than once to mute. A physical switch might work better.
For basic use in calls or recordings, the TONOR G11 does the job. The sound quality is good enough for voices. But it’s not meant for music or pro audio. Still, for the price, we think it’s a good value for most people who need a simple USB mic for their computer.
MAONO USB Mic
We think this mic is a great choice for beginners looking for good sound quality at a fair price.
Pros
- Clear audio pickup
- Easy setup
- Comes with useful accessories
Cons
- Arm clamp could be sturdier
- No mute button
- May pick up background noise
The MAONO USB microphone gave us crisp, clean audio when we tested it out. We were happy with how our voice sounded for podcasts and video calls. The 192kHz/24-bit sampling rate helps capture a wide range of tones.
Setup was a breeze. We just plugged it into our computer’s USB port and it worked right away. No extra software or drivers needed. The included boom arm let us position the mic easily. We liked having the pop filter and foam cover to reduce pops and hisses.
While the sound quality is good for the price, we did notice it picked up some room noise. The mic arm works fine but feels a bit wobbly at times. A mute button would have been nice for quick silencing. Still, for the money, we think it’s a solid starter mic for most users.
Buying Guide
When picking a USB microphone, we need to look at a few key things. First, think about what you’ll use it for. Different mics work better for different tasks.
Sound quality is very important. Look for mics that capture clear, crisp audio without background noise. The frequency response tells you what sounds the mic picks up best.
Here’s a quick guide to mic types:
| Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Condenser | Vocals, acoustic instruments |
| Dynamic | Loud sources, live settings |
| Ribbon | Warm, vintage sound |
Pickup pattern matters too. It affects how the mic catches sound from different directions:
- Cardioid: Good for one speaker
- Omnidirectional: Picks up sound all around
- Bidirectional: Front and back only
- Stereo: Wide sound field
We also suggest checking for extras like a headphone jack, volume control, and mute button. These can make the mic easier to use.
Don’t forget about build quality. A sturdy mic will last longer. Look for metal bodies and strong stands.
Lastly, think about your budget. More expensive doesn’t always mean better. Many mid-range mics offer great sound for most users.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to common questions about USB microphones. These cover top options for different uses, budget choices, and some key limitations to keep in mind.
What are the top-rated USB microphones for gaming streamers?
The Blue Yeti and HyperX QuadCast are popular for gaming streams. They have good sound quality and easy setup. The Blue Yeti has multiple pickup patterns. The QuadCast has a tap-to-mute sensor and built-in pop filter.
Which USB microphone is recommended for professional podcasting?
We like the Rode Podcaster for pro podcasting. It has broadcast-quality sound and a built-in pop filter. The Shure MV7 is another great choice. It works with USB or XLR and has both app and manual controls.
How do the best USB microphones compare for music recording purposes?
For music, the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ stands out. It captures clear vocals and instruments. The Blue Yeti X is also good for music. It has high-res LED metering and Blue VO!CE effects.
What are the most cost-effective USB microphones for budget-conscious consumers?
The Blue Snowball iCE is a solid budget pick. It’s under $50 and has good sound for the price. The Samson Q2U is another wallet-friendly option. It works with both USB and XLR.
Are USB microphones suitable for high-quality vocal recording?
USB mics can work well for vocals. The Apogee HypeMiC has a built-in analog compressor for pro-level vocals. The Rode NT-USB Mini also captures clear, detailed vocal recordings.
What are the common limitations of using a USB microphone for audio production?
USB mics have some drawbacks. They often lack XLR connections used in pro setups. Many have fixed pickup patterns. Some have latency issues during recording. USB mics may not match the sound quality of high-end XLR mics.
