Without a doubt, one of the biggest upgrades you can make to the quality of your stream is the audio.
Having a microphone that produces crisp and clear voice audio is something that’s often overlooked by many streamers, but if you’ve been streaming for a while and you’re thinking about upgrading your setup then definitely consider this.
There are quite a lot of different options to choose from and loads of questions that can often leave you even more confused than when you started looking.
Like whether to choose a USB Microphone or an XLR Microphone? What’s the difference between them?
We’ve pulled together a round-up of the best picks in both the USB and the XLR categories to help you pick the best one to suit both your needs and your budget and get the best improvements possible without hurting your pocket.
Know all about Microphones and just want our recommendations? Click here to skip to the goods
What to look for in a Microphone
We get it microphones can be very confusing, especially when you start digging deeper, but in reality there’s four key components that you want to look at when choosing a microphone for improving your stream.
The Frequency Response
Like the human ear, the frquency response of a microphone is the range of sound frequencies that the microphone can pick up and this is measured in Hertz (Hz for short).
Ideally as this is going to be used for voice, you’ll be looking for one that operates in the range of 20 to 20,000Hz as anything above or below this range cannot be produced by the human voice so would be unnecessary.
This probably isn’t too important to focus on unless you are a streamer who produces singing content, but if like us you’re mostly rage screaming at you’re game it’s not that big a deal.
Stick between those ranges and you’ll be off to a good start.
Polar Pattern
A microphones polar pattern is ultimately the direction that the sound is picked up when in use. This is probably one of the more important aspects of what makes a microphone a good or a bad choice.
There are several different types of microphone polar patterns, each with its own unique characteristics and applications, some of which will be perfect for streaming whilst others perhaps not. It really depends on how you intend to use it.
Here are the most common types of microphone polar patterns:
Omnidirectional
An omnidirectional microphone picks up sound equally from all directions. It is ideal for recording ambient sound or capturing the sound of a large group of people.
Cardioid
A cardioid microphone picks up sound primarily from the front and sides and rejects sound from the rear. This pattern is commonly used for solo instrument recording or for capturing a single voice in a noisy environment.
Bidirectional (figure-8)
A bidirectional microphone picks up sound from the front and rear, but not from the sides. It is often used for stereo recording, or for capturing sound from two sources in opposite directions.
With that covered, your best choices are probably going to fall into the Cardioid or Bidirectional categories as when using an Omnidirectional mic, you’ll be capturing other sounds in your stream room like keyboard clicking and computer fans which is not often the sound that you want to be capturing.
Connection Method
There are two major types of gaming microphones: USB and XLR. Each type of microphone has its own set of characteristics best suited to specific jobs.
This is where there may start to become a standout choice for you in picking a microphone as depending on the route you go, will depend a lot on the budget you’ve got to play with.
USB Microphones
Going with a USB microphone gives you the convenience of simply plugging it in to your PC and away you go. There’s very little setup required and it will work straight out of the box.
Depending on the model you go for, it may simply sit on your desk or if it’s arm mounted then just stick it to your desk and find your ideal position setup.
Advantages of USB microphones:
- Cost-effective:Usually more cost effective due to being all that you require.
- User-friendly: They are easy to use and don’t require technical expertise to set up. Just plug them in and away you go.
- No need for a digital audio interface: USB microphones can be plugged directly into a computer without the need for additional hardware.
Disadvantages of USB microphones:
- Limited functionality: They may not offer the same level of functionality as other recording setups, such as recording multiple sources simultaneously.
- Latency issues: Most USB microphones suffer from latency issues, causing a delay between the sound and the recording.
- Reduced sound quality: USB microphones often produce lower sound quality than more advanced recording equipment.
- Lack of control: They may not offer the same level of customization and control as more complex setups.
This makes them usually better for those sitting in the beginner to hobby streamer or those on a lower budget.
XLR Microphones
While XLR microphones are more powerful than USB mics, they require additional setup equipment. To use an XLR microphone with a computer, a recording audio interface is needed. This means more equipment, more space required on your desk and ultimately, more money.
Advantages of XLR microphones:
- High-quality audio: XLR microphones produce crisp and vibrant sound quality that is superior to USB microphones.
- Customization options: XLR microphones offer a lot of customization options that allow for greater control over the recording process.
Disadvantages of XLR microphones:
- Expensive: XLR microphones are generally more expensive than USB microphones, which can be a significant consideration for those on a budget. Don’t forget that you’ll also need to factor in the extra equipment to make it work.
- Complex setup: Setting up an XLR microphone requires additional equipment and technical expertise, which can be challenging for some users.
- Audio interface required: An audio interface is necessary to connect an XLR microphone to a computer, adding to the overall cost.
So if you’re looking to really take your stream up to the next level and you’re aiming to seriously invest in this, then definitely consider the XLR.
Much more suited for those who have been streaming for a while and looking to futureproof.
So now that you’re a bit more clued up on Microphones and the different types out there, it’s probably time that we give you a run down of the microphones we believe you should be looking at when it comes to upgrading.
We’ve chosen each of these because of their capabilities, user reviews and afforability.
There will always be better microphones out there unless you’ve got an unlimited budget, so we’ve tried to keep these within a reasonable limit of costs.
TLDR; Top Picks in USB Microphones
- Super-Cardioid only
- 16-bit
- Condenser Capsule
- Shock-resistent
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating on Amazon
- Four-Capsule Array – Better Clarity
- Multiple Polar Pattern Options
- 24-bit
- On-mic LED Metering
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating on Amazon
- Multiple Polar Pattern Options
- 24-bit
- On-mic LED Feedback
- Quick Mute Button
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating on Amazon
USB Microphones
Blue Yeti X
The Blue Yeti is a popular choice for streamers, thanks to its ease of use and high-quality sound. It features four different polar patterns, allowing you to adjust the directionality of the microphone to suit your needs.
Additionally, the Blue Yeti has a built-in headphone jack for real-time monitoring, as well as a mute button and volume control.
With this level of ease and the affordable price, we’ve put the Blue Yeti X at the top of our list of Microphones worth looking into if you’re a streamer.
It’s important to not get this model confused with the similarly named Blue Yeti, which is cheaper and not as crisp when it comes to audio quality.
You can check the latest prices for the Blue Yeti X on Amazon here.
Razer Seiren X
There seems to be a trend here with microphone companies adding an “X” at the end of the product name.
The Razer Seiren X is a sleek and compact USB microphone that delivers clear and crisp audio. It features a built-in shock mount to reduce vibrations and noise, and its super cardioid pickup pattern ensures that your voice is captured with precision.
The Seiren X also has a mute button and volume control, as well as zero-latency monitoring.
The reason it doesn’t make it to the top of our list, is mostly due to the build quality. The Razer is a predominently plastic body apart from the metal grill.
There’s also no other dials on the microphone to allow on-mic tweaking.
You can check the latest prices for the Razer Seiren X on Amazon here.
Samson G-Track Pro
The Samson G-Track Pro is a versatile USB microphone that offers both cardioid and figure-8 polar patterns, making it suitable for a variety of streaming setups.
It also features a built-in audio interface, which allows you to connect other instruments or audio sources directly to the microphone.
The G-Track Pro has a headphone output with level control, as well as a mute button and volume control.
You can check the latest prices for the Samson G-Track Pro on Amazon here.
XLR Microphones
TLDR; Top Picks in XLR Microphones
- Cardioid Polar Pattern
- Internal “air suspension” shock isolation
- Highly effective pop filter
- Sturdy Build
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating on Amazon
- Built in Pre-amp
- Internal Shock Mount
- 24-bit
- On-mic EQ Presets
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating on Amazon
- Internal Pop Filter
- Robust all-metal construction
- Cardioid Polar Pattern
- 10-year Warranty
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating on Amazon
Logitech Blue Sona
They say it’s the microphone to finally dethrone the Shure SM7B at the top of the picks and my goodness does this one do a good job.
First off, let’s talk about the build quality of this microphone. The Logitech Blue Sona XLR has a sturdy metal body that feels really durable in your hand. It’s also on the heavier side, which gives it a reassuring heft. The microphone is designed with a standard XLR connection, which is great for anyone who wants to use it with a mixer or other professional audio equipment.
Now, let’s get into the sound quality. The Logitech Blue Sona XLR features a large diaphragm condenser capsule that does an excellent job of capturing sound. The microphone has a frequency response range of 20Hz to 20kHz, which means it can pick up a wide range of frequencies. The sound is clear and crisp, with plenty of detail and nuance.
One of the standout features of the Logitech Blue Sona XLR is its versatility. It has four different polar patterns to choose from, including cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo. This means you can use it for a variety of recording situations, whether you’re recording a solo podcast or conducting an interview with a guest.
In addition to the different polar patterns, the Logitech Blue Sona XLR also has a built-in headphone jack for real-time monitoring. This is a really useful feature for anyone who wants to monitor their sound as they record. It also has a mute button on the front, which is handy if you need to quickly pause your recording.
You can check the latest price on Amazon for the Logitech Blue Sona here.
Shure SM7B
The Shure SM7B is a professional-grade microphone that has been used by musicians and broadcasters for decades.
Its dynamic element and cardioid polar pattern make it ideal for capturing vocals, and its internal shock isolation reduces handling noise.
The SM7B also features bass roll-off and mid-range boost controls, as well as a pop filter and windscreen to reduce plosives and breath sounds.
You can check the latest price of the Shure SM7B on Amazon here.
Electro-Voice RE20
The Electro-Voice RE20 is another classic microphone that has been a favorite among broadcasters and voiceover artists for years.
It features a variable-D design that minimizes proximity effect and an internal pop filter that reduces plosives.
The RE20 also has a bass roll-off switch and a mid-range boost control, as well as a humbucking coil that reduces electromagnetic interference.
You can check the latest price of the Electro-Voice RE20 on Amazon here.
Rode Procaster
The Rode Procaster is a high-quality dynamic microphone that offers excellent sound quality and minimal background noise.
Its cardioid polar pattern ensures that your voice is captured with precision, and its internal shock mounting reduces handling noise.
The Procaster also features a pop shield to reduce plosives and a frequency response tailored for speech.
You can check the latest price of the Rode Procaster on Amazon here.
Having a good microphone is essential for producing high-quality streams, and there are many great options available for both USB and XLR setups.
Whether you’re looking for a versatile USB microphone or a professional-grade XLR microphone, the products listed above are sure to deliver excellent results.
So why wait?
Start streaming like a pro today!
