Mics for gaming: Best Gaming Microphones for 2022 — Tom’s Hardware

Best Microphone for Streaming 2022

Even the best phones and gaming headsets can’t compete with the sound quality of a stand-alone microphone. Sure, the little built-in mics in your devices will get the job done when chatting with your mom over FaceTime and strategizing with your teammates during a game, but these microphones are often an afterthought compared to the device’s other features. And they aren’t going to cut it if you’re looking to start game streaming, podcasting, or even recording music. Listeners don’t want to hear choppy, distorted vocals, and a quality microphone could be the difference between seeing your subscriber numbers sink or swim.

Stand-alone microphones give your audience the ability to hear your voice in all the rich-sounding, nuanced glory you intended. It’s in part thanks to the wider frequency response, higher sample rate, and bit-depth of these mics. Some offer additional software, onboard buttons, and indicators to help make you sound even better. It’s virtually impossible to escape all the noises from this chaotic world, whether it’s the hum of your gaming PC, tapping on your gaming keyboard, or the garbage truck making a racket outside, but a quality microphone will offer different pickup patterns to help eliminate the unwanted clamor. Cardioid is your best option for streaming and podcasting, but other pattern options might come in handy.

There is a huge range of microphones available these days, and we’ve picked some of our favorites to help you narrow down the search. So, whether you’re looking to up the quality of your game streams or start a murder podcast, you can find the mic that works best for you – click here to find them in the UK.– click here to find them in the UK.

TL;DR – These are the Best Microphones for Streaming:

  • Blue Yeti X
  • HyperX SoloCast
  • Shure MV7
  • HyperX QuadCast S
  • Rode PodMic
  • Elgato Wave 3
  • PowerDeWise Lavalier Microphone

1.

Blue Yeti X

Best Microphone for Streaming

Blue Yeti X

Type: 4 x Blue 14mm condenser capsules | Output: USB | Polar Pattern: Cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, stereo | Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz | Sample rate: 48kHz | Bit Depth: 24-bit | Sensitivity: -47db | Max SPL: 122dB | Headphone Amplifier: 72mW @ 13ohms

Blue has been synonymous with high-quality, affordable streaming microphones for years, and with the Yeti X, the tradition continues. This USB condenser mic has everything you loved in the original Yeti but adds additional features like an onboard vocal meter, Smart Knob, and a fourth condenser capsule. So, if you’re streaming while gaming, you can ensure you’re not blowing out the ears of your teammates, while the new knob offers controls for gain, mute, headphone volume, and blend. That extra capsule also helps improve your overall sound.

The Blue Yeti X is insanely versatile, thanks to the ample ways it helps you capture quality vocals. There are four polar patterns to choose from, so it’s perfect for recording live streams, one-on-one interviews, group conference calls, and even instruments. Its build quality is impeccable, with a durable metal body and stand accommodating a wide tilt range, making finding the perfect angle a breeze. And once you start recording, if you want to tune the mic in any way or make customizations, you don’t need to invest in any additional software, as the Blue Voice platform is robust but simple enough for anyone to figure out.

2. HyperX SoloCast

Best Budget Microphone for Streaming

HyperX SoloCast

Type: 1 x condenser capsules | Output: USB | Polar Pattern: Cardioid | Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz | Sample rate: 48kHz | Bit Depth: 16-bit | Sensitivity: -6db

Are you just starting the streaming game and not ready to invest in a super pricey microphone? We’ve got you covered. The HyperX SoloCast is an excellent, beginner-friendly option coming in under $40. Sometimes you sacrifice sound quality for a lower price, but with this option, there’s no need to worry. The sound is on par with its bigger, more expensive brother, the HyperX Quadcast S.

The HyperX SoloCast might not have all the fancy features of a more expensive model, but it gets the job done. There is only a single cardioid polar pattern, hence the “solo” in the name. It works best with a single voice, so the mic is ideal if you’re looking to use it for streaming while gaming or creating content. You may occasionally want to set up at a friend’s house or take the mic with you on vacation, and with its compact size and simple plug-in-play USB-C setup, that’s easy to do. However, if you’re hoping for more advanced audio controls, you may be better off uping your budget for a mic with a bigger feature set. With the SoloCast, you aren’t getting any dials or buttons, only a tap-to-mute feature. But, if you want high-fidelity and all the basics, the HyperX SoloCast is your best option.

3. Shure MV7

Best Higher-End Microphone for Streaming

Shure MV7

Type: 1 x Dynamic cartridge | Output: USB/XLR | Polar Pattern: Cardioid | Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz | Sample rate: 48kHz | Bit Depth: 24-bit | Sensitivity: -55db | Max SPL: 132dB

Not all microphones are built alike, and the Shure MV7 is proof of this. Though it’s pricier than the others on our list, it might just be worth a little splurge. The design is second to none, as the mic totes a sturdy, reliable metal form factor paired with both XLR and USB connections. Making it perfect to use with your favorite DAW for a more professional, higher quality sound, or via USB, you can just plug it into your laptop for use on the go. Heck, you can even do both simultaneously if that’s your jam. You’re getting the best of both worlds with this option.

There is a whole lot more to love about the Shure MV7. First, on-mic controls allow you to dial in the gain, monitor mixing and adjust the volume. As a bonus, it comes with access to Shure’s MOTIV app to make real-time adjustments to sound levels and tone without things getting overly complicating. You’ll be able to figure it out even as a newbie. Plus, this should help limit your time stuck in post-production. And, with a high audio resolution of 48kHz sample rate and a 24-bit depth, you get a superior sound to other mics. Whether you’re newly into podcasting, have been game streaming for a bit, or are aiming to record music, the mic’s versatility makes it perfect for anyone.

4. HyperX QuadCast S

Best Microphone for Gaming

HyperX QuadCast S USB Microphone

Type: 3 x 14mm condenser capsules | Output: USB | Polar Pattern: Cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, stereo | Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz | Sample rate: 48kHz | Bit Depth: 16-bit | Sensitivity: -36db | Headphone Amplifier: 7mW @ 32ohms

If you’re streaming your game to fans or even just interacting with teammates, a better quality mic, something you won’t find in a gaming headset, can make all the difference. One of the best microphones made specifically for gaming is the HyperX Quadcast S, and it stands out from all the rest, quite literally, with the customizable RGB lighting. But, it’s packing plenty more like a superb, sturdy build and top-notch features you’ll be excited to show off as you stream.

Though the HyperX Quadcast S may have all the gaming peripherals you’d want, it’s not exclusively for gaming — all the bells and whistles are there for anyone getting into the recording game. There are a total of four different pickup patterns, each one delivering impressive results. You can use it for streaming on Twitch, but it’ll also work for interviews, group meetings, or live music. You can swap between those polar patterns using an on-mic selector while also being able to adjust the gain. As a word of warning, it’s pretty easy to nudge the levels, so be careful after you’ve found the ideal gain settings. The 48kHz sample rate at a 16-bit depth and 20Hz-20kHz frequency response range also ensure accurate recording by covering the full range of human hearing.

5. Rode PodMic

Best Microphone for Podcasting

Rode PodMic

Type: Dynamic | Output: XLR | Polar Pattern: Cardioid | Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz | Sample rate: 48kHz | Bit Depth: 16-bit | Sensitivity: -57db

It seems like everyone has a podcast these days, and maybe you’re looking to join in on the fun. But be sure you’re not making a rookie mistake by recording audio of subpar quality — nothing will turn listeners away quicker. Luckily, there are plenty of decently priced options available, ensuring this never happens. Our favorite is the Rode PodMic, which is optimized specifically for podcasters. This broadcast-level dynamic XLR mic might be a bit more complicated for beginners, but the smooth, sultry vocals it exudes will be worth the extra effort to figure out.

The Rode PodMic totes the look and build quality of a much more expensive mic, but it comes in at under $100. Inside is an integrated pop filter that helps eliminate the annoying popping sound that happens when too much air hits a microphone — you can get overly excited about a topic with little worry of an editing nightmare later. If you plan on adjusting any EQ settings, the mic responds well and consistently produces an accurate sound. As it’s an XLR mic, you lose the simple plug-and-play nature that a USB mic offers, but you just need an audio interface, and you’ll be off. Beginners, once they get the hang of it, and professionals alike will love it.

6. Elgato Wave 3

Best Plug-In-Play Microphone for Streaming

Elgato Wave 3

Type: 1 x 17 mm Electret condenser capsule | Output: USB | Polar Pattern: Cardioid | Frequency Response: 70Hz-20kHz | Sample rate: 48/96kHz | Bit Depth: 24-bit | Sensitivity: -15db | Max SPL: 120dB (140dB with ClipGuard)

Sometimes all you want is a microphone that you just plug in and sound great on, and the Elgato Wave 3 is exactly that. Setting it up is as simple as it gets; you just plug it into your computer via USB-C, and you’re ready to run. There are no extra wires or programs you’ll have to figure out like you would with an XLR mic. To make life even easier, you get loads of control on-mic. In addition to a mute button, a dial can alternately control volume, gain, and adjust the balance between system level and side tone. There’s even a port on the back of the unit if you want to listen to your recording on headphones.

Since there is such ease of use, you may question whether the Elegato Wave 3 will sound great, and there is no need to worry. There is an impressively high audio resolution with a 96kHz sample rate and 24-bit depth. Sometimes, you might get a little loud or too close to the mic during an intense moment in a game, but thankfully the Clipguard cuts out any distortion. Unfortunately, there is only one cardioid polar pattern, but it’s all streamers and podcasters really need. There’s also an unexpected bonus in the Wavelink software, making audio mixing a breeze.

7. PowerDeWise Lavalier Microphone

Best Wearable Microphone for Streaming

PowerDeWise Lavalier Microphone

Type: Lavalier | Output: 3.5mm Aux jack | Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional | Frequency Response: 50Hz-16kHz | Sensitivity: -46db

Is there really any advantage to using a small microphone over the one on your laptop or phone? We certainly think so. If you’re a content creator using short-form video platforms like TikTok and Reels, you’ll quickly find out that a phone picks up too much outside noise, or if you’re too far away, you can’t be heard. A wearable unit fixes this problem. The PowerDeWise Professional Grade Lavalier Lapel Microphone is a super cheap, compact option that’ll up your audio game. This mic clips directly on your clothes — think news anchor vibes — and plugs in directly to your device.

The PowerDeWise Professional Grade Lavalier Lapel Microphone offers a plenty long 13-foot aux cord with a 3. 5mm jack. It should easily plug into most laptops and phones, but you’ll need a separate adapter for iPhones. Once you plug in, you should be good to go. There are no features or adjustments you can make to it like you can with the other options on our list, but it’s simple to use and will, without a doubt, make your voice sound better than whatever your device can record on its own.

Where to Get the Best Microphone for Streaming and Podcasting in the UK

Reaching a worldwide audience from the comfort of your home is just as easy in the UK as it is in the US. We’ve managed to find a great selection of microphones from our list that are also available to pick up on the other side of the pond, the vast majority in fact. Don’t see the microphones below? Click here.

Samson

G-Track Pro

Best Microphone for Streaming and Podcasting

Roccat

Torch

Best Budget Microphone

Blue

Yeti Snowball

Set it and Forget it

Blue

Yeti Pro USB

Best Plug-and-Play Mic for Streaming and Podcasting

HyperX

QuadCast USB

Best Broadcast Mic for Streaming and Podcasting

Razer

Siren Elite

The Broadcast Microphone you Want on a Boom Arm

Blue

Yeti Nano

Best Portable Mic for Streaming and Podcasting

Audio-Technica

AT2040

Best XLR Mic for Streaming and Podcasting

Shure

SM58 Vocal Mic

Best Handheld Microphone for Streaming and Podcasting

Elgato

Wave 3

Best Customizable Microphone for Streaming and Podcasting

What to Look for in a Microphone for Streaming and Podcasting

There is such a wide array of microphones available. It’s easy to get carried away or totally lost on the quest for a perfect recording. So, we’ve narrowed down what to look for in a microphone to find the best one to suit your needs.

First off, polar patterns are important to make note of. Cardioid is going to be essential if you’re using this microphone in any streaming or podcasting capacity. It focuses on sounds from the front and sides, ignoring the rear. But, say you also want to use it for one-on-one interviews or a group conference call, a microphone that offer bidirectional or omnidirectional patterns are much better suited. Microphones like the Blue Yeti X and HyperX Quadcast S conveniently offer multiple polar patterns that you can easily switch between.

Another important factor to keep in mind is the type of microphone you purchase: condenser or dynamic. The majority of our picks are condenser mics, and that means the mic is better at picking up a more crisp, detailed sound. That also makes them a bit more sensitive and prone to record unwanted sounds. Condenser mics can also offer multiple polar patterns, which a dynamic does not.

Dynamic mics, however, are more durable and can handle higher sound volumes without distortion. Plus, with a cardioid pattern, dynamic mics are ideal for podcasting because they are better at eliminating background noise to focus just on your voice. These are the type of microphones you’ll usually find in a recording studio. But, either microphone type should work great if you’re just looking to use it for streaming.

Now, the output of a microphone might not be something you’ve given much thought to, but it’s essential to make note of the differences. Most of the mics on our list are USB microphones, which means you won’t need an audio interface for use. You can simply plug it in and get recording. You will sacrifice the ability to change components or use it with a mixing board though.

An XLR output is a bit trickier to use as you need an additional audio interface to plug in to. But say you want to look into special effects, like a compressor, equalizer, or noise gate to make your stream sound even better, an XLR option makes that upgrade easier.

Danielle Abraham is a freelance writer and unpaid music historian.

Best Gaming Microphones in 2022

Gaming microphones are an essential tool for your rise to Twitch stardom. Whether you’re as big as Ninja or just starting out, capturing your unique voice is paramount if you plan on growing an audience. Aside from Twitch, gaming microphones are perfect for all manners of content creation, whether you’re recording a voice-over for a YouTube video, or the next big podcast. 

Even if e-stardom isn’t in your future, nothing beats a great gaming microphone for smack talking in an MMO game or conversely, connecting with co-workers over Zoom. Here’s a selection of the best gaming microphones available right now. 

— Best Overall: HyperX QuadCast S
— Best Wireless: Razer Seiren BT
— Best for Podcasting: Blue Yeti USB Mic
— Best High-End: BEACN Mic Light
— Best for Beginners: HyperX DuoCast

How We Picked the Best Gaming Microphones

Just what is a “gaming microphone”? In many instances, it’s just a regular microphone aimed at gamers. Yes, you can add “gaming microphones” to the long list of things that are marketed to folks who pick up a gamepad on a regular basis, like chairs and energy drinks. Granted, there are a few features that gamers may just appreciate a little more than the average bear. Here are a few things we considered when picking out the best gaming microphones. 

Audio Capture: At this point, a lot of everyday electronic devices such as webcams are designed with microphones. Your smartphone, your laptop, and maybe even your home gaming console have the ability to record your voice. But as anyone who’s ever been in a Zoom meeting can attest to, the clarity that comes with these mics is less than ideal. A good gaming microphone, even one on the lower end of the price spectrum, is going to do a far better job. A great gaming microphone will not only capture voice and action with crystal clarity, but may equally capture music as well.

Noise-Cancellation: We live in a noisy world. Even if you don’t live close to a railyard, there are still plenty of everyday noises, from meowing cats to the “brrr” of an air conditioner. When recording, you still want to optimize your surroundings, but good gaming microphones should still be able to filter out some cumbersome noises. 

Usability: Since just about every gaming microphone under the sun works with Mac and Windows, connecting it to your PC or laptop shouldn’t be a hassle. Once it’s connected, it shouldn’t disconnect easily, especially if it connects via Bluetooth. Aside from connectivity, you want a device that lets you adjust everything from sound to polar patterns on the fly.

Customization: Many gaming microphones come with their own stands and are low profile enough to work into your rig, however, even big desks can eventually get bogged down with other accessories. The best mics work with secondary stands that you can mount to your desk or your wall, much in the way that Vesa mounts work. Other customization options, including RGB lighting, are great too, even if cool aesthetics don’t always make for better sounds. 

Best Gaming Microphones: Reviews and Recommendations 

Best Overall: HyperX QuadCast S

Practically Perfect. Jaime Carrillo/Futurism

Why It Made The Cut: HyperX QuadCast S combines great customizable aesthetics with fantastic audio capture capabilities. 

Specs: 

— Dimensions: 5.08 inches L x 4.06 inches W x 9.84 inches H
— Weight: 1.32 pounds
— Compatible Devices: PC, Mac, PS4, PS5
— Polar Patterns: Stereo, Omnidirectional, Cardioid, Bidirectional 

Pros:

— Great on-device control including tap to mute
— Anti-vibration shock mount
— Customizable lighting and effects

Cons:

— On the pricier side

HyperX makes everything from headsets, to keyboards, and even mice, but its QuadCast S is a near perfect gaming microphone, and our pick for the overall best. It’s one of the best condenser microphones available, and while it’s made for gamers, it’s a solid audio capture device for all manner of content creation. The QuadCast is seemingly suspended in midair on its dock with an anti-vibration shock mount, which absorbs unwanted rumbles and bumps when you’re recording. 

There are plenty of on-screen controls that let you customize the way you record on the fly. A knob on the front of the device lets you select from four polar patterns which help optimize not just what you record, but how you record. The bottom of the mic quickly allows you to change up the gain control, to help make up for voices that are too loud or too mousey. And in the event that you need to go off-mic, pressing the top of the QuadCast S instantly mutes you. Better yet, many of these controls respond in kind with the customizable RGB lighting, making it one of the best-looking gaming microphones. HyperX NGENUITY software is only available on Windows, but you can still enjoy these effects on Mac and PlayStation systems after configuring them. That said, this gaming microphone is one of the pricier offerings on the market, but there’s a good chance that it will cover all of your recording needs for years to come. 

Best Wireless: Razer Seiren BT

Portable and Powerful. Razer

Why It Made The Cut: This microphone comes with a few compromises, but there’s no denying its portability and versatility.

Specs: 

— Dimensions: 0.7 inches L x 2.4 inches W x 0.62 inches H
— Weight: 4.2 ounces
— Compatible Devices: PC, Android, iOS, Mac
— Polar Patterns: Omnidirectional 

Pros: 

— Great for on-the-go recording
— Syncs easily to smartphones
— Streaming-ready 

Cons:

— Good sound recording, not great

Many gaming content creators dance between Let’s Plays and vlogs, and even occasionally leave their hovels to brave the outside world. The Razer Seiren is perfect for live-streaming on the go. 

The way Razer Seiren works is fairly simple. It’s smaller than most vape pens and fits in just about any pocket. When you’re ready to stream, simply clip it near your face, and let the omnidirectional mic do its work. Seiren syncs up to the Razer Streaming App (Available on App Store and Google Play) where you can customize your recording style and enable noise suppression, get a peek at your battery life, adjust gain levels, and more. It even comes with a windsock to block out cumbersome noise. 

Like many great pieces of Razer hardware, the guts inside this device are getting constant updates to make this portable wireless gaming microphone better and better. Despite how user-friendly and portable it is, it’s not without its faults. The audio capture quality simply won’t compare to any other gaming microphone on this list. That’s not to say it’s bad; it’s definitely better than “good enough.” After charging to full power, it can record for up to six hours which is mighty impressive. And considering the Seiren is portable, it’s a good bit more versatile than any other gaming microphone on the market.  

Best for Podcasting: Blue Yeti USB Mic

Solid and Stable. Jaime Carrillo/Futurism

Why It Made The Cut: This microphone isn’t much of a looker, but it’s a recording workhorse. 

Specs: 

— Dimensions: 4.9 inches L x 4.7 inches W x 11.6 inches H
— Weight: 3.2 pounds
— Compatible Devices: PC, Mac, Chromebook
— Polar Patterns: Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8, Stereo

Pros:

— Clear, broadcast-quality sound
— Climate Pledge friendly
— Four recording patterns, easy control

Cons:

— On the heavier side
— Muted aesthetics

The Blue Yeti USB Mic isn’t nearly as sexy as the other offerings in this list. There’s no RGB lighting customization, it looks older than it is, and it’s almost twice as heavy as many other gaming microphones. However, it’s still incredibly great at doing what it does: recording quality sound.

Voices and sounds come in incredibly crisp, with a recording quality that is more than broadcast-ready. That’s because within the guts of this microphone is a custom three capsule array. You could easily use the Blue Yeti USB mic to record music when you’re not using it to provide commentary for a Let’s Play or recording a podcast. In fact, the four polar patterns will optimize your recording capabilities whether you’re recording a podcast on your own, with a friend, or even with a group. No need for a complicated array of microphones, one Blue Yeti will be more than enough. The stand doesn’t have a shock mount, but it’s incredibly sturdy, and even the most mischievous cat won’t be able to tip it over. You can even adjust where the mic is pointed so it can be positioned exactly where you want to record. There are a few frills here, but you can decide for yourself whether or not that’s a tick in the pro or con column. There’s no underselling a device that you can simply plug into a Mac, PC, or even Chromebook and start recording in seconds. That’s why it’s still one of the most popular and reliable USB microphones on the market.  

Best High-End: BEACN Mic Light

Studio-Quality Sound Capture. BEACN

Why It Made The Cut: For professionals or amateurs on a professional track, the BEACN Mic Light is one of the best gaming microphones on the market. 

Specs: 

— Dimensions: 2.1 inches L x 2.1 inches W x 8 inches H
— Weight: 8.48 ounces
— Compatible Devices: PC, Mac, PS4, PS5
— Polar Patterns: Cardioid

Pros:

— Potential for studio-quality recording
— Fantastic compressor
— Absolutely gorgeous 

Cons:

— Pricey
— Doesn’t come with stand

Is there such a thing as a “forever gaming microphone?” You know, a device that you buy once and use until the sun goes supernova? This idea may be untenable, and even if a “forever gaming microphone” is an impossible idea, the BEACN Mic sure comes close. 

The sleek build and the customizable RGB lighting, common in gaming microphones, are here. But where BEACN Mic stands out is its incredibly solid, professional-grade guts. Yes, you can use this microphone for live streams and everyday voiceover recording, but that’s just the beginning of what’s possible here. Within this microphone are the same pieces asan entire recording studio. The free Windows app that works with your BEACN Mic routes the sound you record and allows you to adjust just about everything for the best in optimization. Beginners may have to spend a little time tweaking before recording, but professionals will be more than at home with all the options available. Of course, because it’s a professional-grade microphone, you will need to bring your own stand. And sadly, the application that does all that professional-level optimization is only available on Windows, which is tragic for Mac-based content creators. And finally, it is incredibly pricey (almost twice the price as our overall favorite), but if you’re truly in the market for an almost future-proof gaming microphone, BEACN Mic comes highly recommended.  

Best for Beginners: HyperX QDuoCast

Great Value. Jaime Carrillo/Futurism

Why It Made The Cut: While it offers fewer options than QuadCast S, HyperX DuoCast is an impressive and affordable gaming microphone. 

Specs: 

— Dimensions: 4.4 inches L x 3.8 inches W x 7.8 inches H
— Weight: 8.48 ounces
— Compatible Devices: PC, Mac, PS4, PS5
— Polar Patterns: Cardioid, Omnidirectional

Pros:

— Hi-res recording capabilities
— Easy controls
— Customizable RG lights 

Cons:

— Only two polar patterns

The latest addition to the HyperX QuadCast family, Duo, isn’t as powerful or versatile as QuadCast S, but it’s still full of some fairly stellar surprises. 

In many ways, it’s a lighter, slightly scaled-down version of the glitzy QuadCast S, and even at first glance, you can tell these mics are related. Just like the S, DuoCast has a tap-to-mute sensor, a shock mount, and even customizable RGB lighting. Sort of. The shock mount on the DuoCast is much smaller, and the RGB customization only affects a very thin strip. 

DuoCast is an apt name, considering it can only record two polar patterns compared to the QuadCast S’s four. But the capabilities under its belt are still fairly impressive, and it can go toe-to-toe with QuadCast S when it comes to recording, using cardioid and omnidirectional polar patterns. If you’re a beginner that’s just starting out, it’s a great way to record yourself for voiceovers and live streams. It is less expensive than QuadCast S, so if you’re looking to save a buck it may be more than you need. And while it’s an incredibly capable gaming microphone in its own right, we feel it will live in the shadow of Quadcast S, and the cost savings may not be terribly prudent in the long run, considering just how great our overall favorite pick is. 

Things to Consider Before Buying a Gaming Microphone

Gaming Microphone vs. Gaming Headsets: There’s a significant chance that you already own a gaming headset that comes with both cozy in-ear speakers and a microphone in one convenient package, and they do a fantastic job of capturing your voice when you’re gaming online with friends and enemies alike. Higher-end gaming microphones pack surprisingly solid mics in them. To be honest, they may be all you need, especially if you’re just starting out your Twitch takeover. But would we recommend you record a podcast or a catchy theme song for yourself on them? Absolutely not. There’s just no comparing the sound quality.

Standalone gaming microphones are typically condenser mics, which handle both highs and lows with ease, and more importantly, are perfect for catching detailed audio. Recording even simple voice-overs using a gaming headset mic may have you spending more hours in the editing bay than you want. Luckily, good gaming microphones can be had for even modest investment these days, including the HyperX QuadCast S, our overall favorite.

Accessories to Upgrade Your Gaming Microphone: Many of the best gaming microphones will be ready to use right out of the box. All you’ve got to do is plug them into your PC or laptop, and start recording or streaming. Of course, your audio quality could always be improved with a few optional add-ons. Here are a couple that we recommend.

Pop Filter: Do you over pronounce your Ps and Bs? Nothing makes a faithful viewer or listener cringe quicker than annoying popping, or even the whirr of a nearby fan or air conditioner. While many gaming microphones pack noise-removal capabilities, this inexpensive accessory only amplifies them. It’s compatible with many gaming mics except for the Blue Yeti USB Mic.

Mic Stand: No matter how streamlined your gaming rig is, things may get out of hand when it comes to your microphone. Desktop real estate is precious, after all. The best way to free up space is to use a mic stand that folds away when it’s not in use. This one works with our best overall pick, the HyperX QuadCast S, but there’s a good chance there’s a stand made for whatever gaming microphone you end up buying. 

FAQs

Q: How much do gaming microphones cost?

Good, quality gaming microphones run anywhere from $40 to several hundred. The HyperX Quadcast S, our overall best pick costs $159. 

Q: Why would I want a standalone mic instead of just a headset?

The microphones in gaming headsets are good enough for competitive online gaming and FaceTime calls, but the sound capture quality can’t come close compared to a standalone gaming microphone. 

Q: What are the types of gaming microphones?

Gaming microphones distinguish themselves from one another by offering different polar patterns and occasionally aesthetic features like customizable RGB lighting. 

Q: How do I clean my gaming microphone?

In short, very carefully. To clean your gaming microphone, remove the grid from the device and clean the foam with lukewarm water. Allow it to dry for at least three days. Of course, always consult your gaming microphone manufacturer before cleaning your device. 

Q: Are USB gaming mics better?

For recording voice-overs and podcasts, gaming mics are much better when compared to gaming headsets.  

Q: Should I buy a dynamic or condenser gaming mic?

It depends on what you’re intending to use your mic for. Dynamic gaming microphones are great for minimizing distortion and bigger, boomier sounds. Condenser mics capture much more detail, and can even capture sounds as low as a whisper. However, this also makes them more prone to capture background noise. 

Final Thoughts on Gaming Microphones

The first step in making it big in the world of streaming starts with finding your voice. The second step is finding the right gaming microphone to capture that voice. HyperX QuadCast S is our overall favorite because you don’t need to be an audiophile to make the most out of it. If you are an audiophile and have plenty of cash to spare, BEACN Mic is one powerful number. For recording on the go, Razer Seiren BT is a fantastic option and runs for up to six hours on one charge. 

This post was created by a non-news editorial team at Recurrent Media, Futurism’s owner. Futurism may receive a portion of sales on products linked within this post.

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The 7 Best Gaming Microphones in 2021

Our shortlist of the best gaming microphones, whatever your requirement.

If you’ve been looking for the best microphone for gaming, look no further. With a variety of great options in every price range, you’re sure to find the best standalone gaming microphone that suits your needs.

We’ve put together a list of great mics across price ranges all vying for the same goal: being the best mic for gaming. Depending on your needs, all of these microphones can meet your requirements, but together we will find out which one is best for you.

There are seven microphones to choose from in this article. Of these seven, approximately four are considered overkill for gaming purposes and are only recommended if you have non-gaming needs such as voice and sound recording.

However, the first three microphones in this article are powerful and versatile solutions for gamers around the world. In fact, some of them can be used for other purposes as well!

In the end, what you choose depends entirely on your budget and whether your needs go beyond gaming. Stay tuned and we’ll take care of all these microphones for your reading and gaming pleasure.

Contents

  1. Best Microphone for Gaming at a Glance
  2. Best Microphone, Beyond the Needs of the Average Gamer
  3. Alternative Pro Level Microphone
  4. High Quality Microphone Suitable for Streamers
  5. Best Microphone for Intermediate Gamers Good for 9002 Good for 9002 9002 also for streamers on a budget
  6. Best all-round budget microphone
  7. Budget microphone that can be attached to headphones
  8. What do I need for gaming purposes?
  9. Some extras you should get
  10. 7 best mics for gaming
  11. Best mic beyond the needs of the average gamer
  12. Professional grade alternative mic
  13. High quality mic suitable for streamers
  14. Best mic for mid-range 9002 Good for 9002 9002 gamers and streamers on a budget
  15. Best All-Round Budget Microphone
  16. Budget microphone, which can be attached to headphones
  17. Conclusion

The best microphone for games: First glance

The best microphone, superior to the needs of the usual gamer

Blue Microphones — Yeti Pro

editors’ rating — 5, 50002 rating. 0 / 5

Sensational professional microphone for streamers and audiophiles.

This microphone is primarily intended for game streamers, broadcasters and audio professionals.

If you’re planning on doing any of these with games, you should definitely consider Yeti Pro. However, for purely gaming purposes, the cost of this beautiful kit is somewhat prohibitive.

Alternative Pro Mic

Razer Seiren Elite

Editor Rating — 5.0 / 5

Another high-end microphone designed for streamers and audio pros who also love to play!

Gaming-branded microphone, but another one aimed at streamers, not just casual gamers.

This microphone offers professional sound quality at a price to match.

High Quality Microphone Suitable for Streamers

Blue Microphones — Yeti

Editor Rating — 4.9 / 5

Excellent high quality microphone suitable for streamers.

Another Yeti mic from Blue, it’s still good for streamers and above the level required by the average gamer, but doesn’t quite match the performance and price of the professional grade mics listed here.

Quality microphone with good construction.

Best Mid-Range Mic

Audio-Technica — AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio Microphone

Editor Rating — 4.9 / 5 framework for gaming use only and can be used for streaming or other audio recording requirements.

9The 0002 Audio-Technica AT2020 offers greater sensitivity and directivity to the point that it is suitable for non-gaming audio use and streamers.

Although suitable for gamers, many may find it a bit out of their price range.

Good for gamers as well as streamers on a budget

Blue Microphones — Snowball

Editor Rating — 4.9 / 5 streamer or gamer who wants to immerse themselves in sound.

Another blue microphone on this list, the Snowball is what we recommend for the gamer who wants to spend a little more money or the streamer who is just starting out.

It has good sensitivity, range and build quality as it can be used to record sound not only in games.

Best All-Round Budget Microphone

Fifine — Plug & Play Condenser Microphone

Editor Rating — 4.7 / 5 9The 0003

Fifine Plug & Play is a freestanding microphone in gold and black that can serve either as a budget gaming mic or for more general purposes.

A good budget choice for those who want more than just a gaming mic; Fifine isn’t really suited for serious streaming, but it does give some low-level capabilities for general recordings beyond the headset mic.

Budget microphone that can be attached to headphones

Antlion Audio — ModMic

Editor Rating — 4.7 / 5

Antlion Audio’s ModMic is the best budget option for those who are only interested in gaming.

ModMic is a detachable microphone that can be attached to existing headphones.

This is a purely gaming device and is not suitable for streaming or anything other than basic use. However, it offers great value and comes with its own pop filter.

What do I need for gaming purposes?

As you may have gathered from our review, some of these microphones are impractical for gaming due to their price compared to in-game sound quality.

In our opinion everything, including the Blue Snowball, is practical for playing sound only in games. Snowball is also versatile enough to be used in other apps, making it popular with Twitch streamers around the world.

However, from AT2020 onwards, you are out of redundancy territory. At this point, you should only buy a microphone if you plan to use it for other purposes or if you want the flexibility to one day use it for these other things.

In-game voice codecs are usually not that good and get significantly worse in older games. A $250 microphone and a $100 microphone will sound pretty much the same as your teammates in the game, so you really shouldn’t blow your wallet if you don’t have to.

We decided to include these other options in case gaming isn’t your only concern. If you’re serious about streaming Twitch, creating videos on YouTube, or even recording music, these other microphones are made for you.

Some Extras You Should Get

First, get a pop filter. Other than the ModMic, none of the mics on this list have a pop filter, and without it, your Ps and Bs will be noticeably loud in voice communications.

Secondly, if your microphone requires it, or if you just want more flexibility, a scissor microphone stand is worth buying. These are large designs that will be somewhat inconvenient to install, but in the end they will save you space on your desk and save you headaches when setting up in the future.

7 Best microphones for games

The best microphone that exceeds the needs of a conventional gamer

Blue Microphones — Yeti Pro

Technical characteristics

  • Frequency ranges — 15 Hz — 22 Hz — 22 Hz — 22 KGC not available)
  • Directional — Cardioid, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional, Stereo
  • Dynamic or Condenser — Condenser

pluses

  • Excess for games, amazing for other purposes
  • many directions of direction
  • The best focus of
  • Better sensitivity
  • more authoritative manufacturer, higher assembly quality

vengeys expensive for a gaming mic

  • No pop filter included
  • The Yeti Pro is the go-to mic for most people and comes with a corresponding $250 price tag. This mic beast will handle whatever you throw at it with ease and deliver the best sound quality for gaming, streaming, voice recording and more.

    Alternative microphone Professional level

    Razer Seiren Elite

    Technical characteristics

    • frequency range — 20 Hz
    • Sensitivity — 12.5 MV/ PA (1 KGC)
    • Cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional stereo

    • Dynamic or Condenser — Capacitor

    PLUS

    • Excess for gaming, amazing for other uses
    • many directions of direction
    • The best orientation range
    • Best sensitivity
    • more authoritative manufacturer, higher assembly quality

    Minutes

    • is extremely expensive for the game microphone
    • , there is no included pop filler
    • as and in the case of the Yeti-Pro, the same applies here — the Razer Seiren Elite offers amazing audio and recording quality, but far exceeds what’s practically needed for any gaming scenario. This may come as a surprise to those used to Razer as a gaming brand.

      If you are seriously considering purchasing one of the Pro microphones, only do so if you are serious about non-gaming applications. Otherwise, choose one of our cheaper options.

      High -quality microphone suitable for streamers

      Blue Microphones — Yeti

      Technical characteristics

      • frequency range — 20 Hz — 20 KHC
      • Sensitivity — (Specification is unacceptable)0020
      • Directed — cardiode, double -controlled, assigned, stereo
      • Dynamic or condenser — capacitor

      Plus

      • Overkill for other purposes
      • many directions of
      • .
      • More reputable manufacturer, better build quality

      9 CONS0003

      • Expensive for a gaming mic
      • No pop filter included

      The Yeti is slightly more expensive than the AT2020 (listed below), but also boasts higher sound quality and more playability.

      While its stand may be comparable to Fifine’s Plug & Play, this mic’s increased range and sensitivity means it doesn’t need to be placed between you and your keyboard to record well. Unlike Snowball, it is much smaller and does not stick out on the table at all.

      When it comes to gaming mics, that’s where the practicality ends, as your gaming applications will no longer benefit from the sound quality boost.

      However, by purchasing this microphone, you will also be pretty much set up for any other use that comes to mind, including streaming and recording.

      Best Midrange Microphone

      Audio-Technica — AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio Microphone

      Technical characteristics

      • frequency range — 40 Hz — 20 kHz
      • Sensitivity — 48 dB (3.9 MV) relatively 1 V at 1 PA
      • Directed — cardiode
      • Dynamic or condenser — capacitor — capacitor — capacitor — capacitor — capacitor — capacitor — capacitor — capacitor — capacitor

      PLUS

      • Slight excess for gaming, good for other purposes
      • Lots of heading options
      • Good directivity range
      • Good sensitivity
      • more authoritative manufacturer, higher assembly quality

      Cons

      • DOOLD for game microphone
      • there is no included pop movie
      • Buying for a microphone

      At2020 AT2020 AT2020 is cost in most cases and also offers excellent range and snowball sensitivity. The

      AT2020 is one of the most popular budget options for people who are serious about audio recording. It’s popular with home studio musicians and is more than enough for amazing gaming sound.

      Sorry, no stand or bracket included. To use this for gaming, you’ll have to buy something extra to use it: unfortunately, there’s no real way around this.

      Purely for gaming purposes, this is still a little overkill. But if you want to create high quality audio on the side, the AT2020 is a viable choice. Just don’t forget to buy a stand and a pop filter with it.

      Good for gamers and streamers on a budget

      Blue Microphones — Snowball

      Technical characteristics

      • frequency range — 18 kHz
      • Sensitivity — Specifications are not available or Cardiode
      • , Vermand (input), Vermened

        Condenser mode

      PLUS

      • Great for gaming, great for other uses
      • Tripod included means no need to purchase a stand
      • Can be used at a considerable distance for gaming chat
      • Lots of heading options
      • Good directional range
      • Good (estimated) sensitivity
      • More reputable manufacturer, better build quality
      • 1 CONS

        • Expensive for gaming purposes
        • No pop filter included
        • 9The 0211

          Snowball has excellent, versatile sound quality, making it ideal for gaming as well as other use cases.

          However, one of the biggest advances is the included adjustable tripod and high range/sensitivity. Thanks to these combined elements, you can place the microphone at a considerable distance from yourself on your desktop.

          You just need to point it in the right direction for the best result.

          In addition to the ideal form factor and sound quality, there are many directional options for different usage scenarios. It’s also the first microphone on this list to be released by a high-end audio company, so it’s much better built than previous ones.

          If you’re trying to find the sweet spot between a gaming utility and other uses, Snowball is highly recommended. But it will cost you $70.

          Best All-Round Budget Microphone

          Fifine — Plug & Play Condenser Microphone

          Technical characteristics

          • frequency range — 20 Hz — 20 kHz sensitivity — 34 dB ± 30% (at 1 kg) unidirectional
          • Dynamic or Condenser — Condenser

          PROS

          • Good for gaming, good for other purposes
          • Great budget desktop microphone

          Lessine

          • There is no included pop filter
          • Low-frequency range
          • Low sensitivity
          • The included stand requires you to place the microphone

          Microphone Plug & Ply for games under $50. It also claims to be the best desktop microphone for gaming, but falls short of that territory.

          It’s also surprisingly great considering its price range. Its bright gold design will surely stand out on your table.

          The main drawback of this microphone is shared by many others: the included stand pretty much requires you to place the microphone directly in front of you for best results. This can be inconvenient when you are trying to free up space on the table and choose the right angle.

          However, it is unrivaled among entry-level microphones. You won’t find anything better than this for less than $50, and it will prove to be quite suitable for gaming purposes.

          This is also fine for other purposes such as vocal recording, but will require additional sound editing and the like on your part to make it sound good. But who can complain for only $30?

          Budget microphone, which can be attached to headphones

          Antlion Audio — Modmic

          Technical characteristics

          • frequency range — 10 KHC
          • Sensitivity — 38 + 3 dB 9 dB 9 dB 9. 0020
          • Directed-Cardiode, single-directional
          • Dynamic or condenser-capacitor

          Plus

          • Excellent budget microphone
          • is good for games, but not more than
          • Form Forms are very convenient in the Pop-Filter
          • kit
          • Can be attached to existing headphones

          CONS

          • Lowest frequency range
          • Lowest sensitivity
          • Multiple directional options
          • Not great outside of gaming scenarios

          The ModMic is often called the best budget mic for gaming considering it’s very cheap, better than your regular headset mic, and can be attached to existing headphones. This is by far the best microphone clip for gaming.

          Also, unlike the other options on this list, it includes a pop filter! This means your installation and additional investment is minimal.

          All you have to do is plug it in, clip it onto your headset, and you’re good to go.

          Although this microphone is not suitable for non-gaming purposes, it is only quite effective for gaming purposes. Most gaming audio codecs won’t support great audio quality, and you don’t need high sensitivity or frequency range if you’re speaking directly into a microphone.

          ModMic is a budget gaming microphone. But, if you buy it, please note that it is generally good for nothing.

          Conclusion

          I hope reading this article has helped you find the best microphone for gaming and for you.

          If gaming is your only concern, ModMic or Fifine Plug & Play should serve you well.

          If you need a place for professional-grade audio recording and streaming, Snowball is a great option for the middle of the road. And also, if you’re serious about professional applications in addition to gaming, you can also choose from one of the $100+ mics.

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