Do you want to be the next YouTube sensation?
Do you have a great voice and an idea for a video series?
If so, what are you waiting for? Start making videos with the Best Microphone for YouTube.
Since many people use their smartphones as cameras, getting the best quality sound possible is essential to make your content stand out above other videos with low-quality sound.
This post will cover some of the best microphones for YouTube and how they can help your channel grow. The world has changed drastically since social media became popularized by Facebook in 2004.
For a while now, marketers have been using YouTube as an advertising platform because of its large number of viewers and vast information.
What is a microphone, and what are its uses?
A microphone is typically a device that captures sound waves and converts them into electric signals. Microphones can amplify and record sound and play sounds through speakers or other sound-emitting devices so humans can hear the sound more clearly.
Most high-quality microphones in this day of age are great for recording videos on YouTube.
Also, some of these options come with an external microphone mount, which connects to your camera’s 3.5mm input jack for connecting a mic mounted onto one’s body or equipment via cable).
They also have a windscreen feature (which helps dampen unwanted low-frequency sounds introduced by turbulence as air molecules move past the mic diaphragm) and inbuilt shock mounts (to isolate the mic.
How to choose the best microphone for you?
The Best Microphone for YouTube videos depends on the person. For many people, it’s better to invest in a high-end condenser mic at around $ 900-USD $1500. In general, higher-quality microphones pick up sound more clearly. They can also be “tuned” more accurately to account for their surroundings – which is essential for recordings they will rely on.
If you would like something much cheaper or need an audio setup quickly, I recommend looking at dynamic microphones instead.
Dynamic mics can also sometimes produce noticeable sound but might not have as high fidelity depending on what professional setups are available where you live. A cheaper alternative is the radio shack project boom arm which will typically cost.
Different types of microphones, their pros and cons, and which ones are the best in those categories?
There are all sorts of microphones, but it’s essential to understand their intended uses. Large-diaphragm condensers would be best for vocals and instruments, while ribbon mics are perfect for capturing a warmer texture.
Some sources say the Rode NT-1000 is the mic for everyone from The Beatles to Lindsey Stirling and is recommended by Taylor Swift.
Suppose you’re looking at the best live sound recording microphone. In that case, we recommend the Electro-Voice RE20SE, considered one of the most versatile and popular large-diaphragm professional dynamic microphones explicitly designed for vocal applications. Engineers respect it because it provides accurate reproduction independent of proximity effect or off-axis coloration.
Top 10 Microphones in the Market.
The Ads for Microphones for YouTube in the market are as follows:
1. Shure SM7B (overall best microphone for YouTube)
We always recommend the Shure SM7B Microphone for YouTube. The reason is that it’s hard to find a better-sounding, less expensive option than this one! It features an all-inclusive sound reproduction with clean tones and warm mids – perfect for presenting your voice naturally without interference from outside noise or distortion at high volume levels.
Furthermore, the Shure SM7B mic is excellent for any recording and perfect if you want to record vocals. The microphone’s cardioid pattern will only capture audio directly in front of it, meaning no more unwanted noise!
This also comes with an air suspension shock isolation which eliminates ambient sound like machine noises or heavy breathing–all the while, a pop filter clears out plosives from your recordings (those harsh P-sounds).
As well as this electromagnetic shielding so, now fewer pesky hums are coming through when using other devices near your computer or router
Specifications:
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
- Item Weight: 2.65 Pounds
- Hardware Platform: PC
- Impedance: 150 Ohm
- Number of Channels: 1
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Effective on-board frequency response filters | Heavy |
| Excellent vocal reproduction | Expensive |
| Off-axis and internal noise rejection | — |
| Off-axis and internal noise rejection | — |
| Build quality | — |
2. Audio Technica AT2020 Best Runner Up
The Audio Technica AT2020 is the best value for your money in terms of quality and price. Suppose you’re looking to start a YouTube channel or need an upgrade from what you currently have. In that case, this microphone will take care of both needs with its incredible sound quality that compares only to much more expensive models such as Neumann microphones.
When it comes time to buy one microphone for all your recording needs—from video conferencing on Skype (with audio) through podcasts to high-quality voice recordings at home while working on music projects—the Audio Technica 2020 should be a top contender because it doesn’t break the bank compared with other brands which often cost three times as much!
Moreover, the AT2020 offers a high-quality sound for the price. The extended frequency range is perfect for those who want to record vocals or instruments, and it has a rapid transient response that makes it easy to capture both quick and slow sounds accurately without distortion. This is a rugged design with an impressive SPL rating, so you can use your microphone on any instrument – from guitar amps to symphonies!
Specifications:
- Brand: Audio Technica
- Connector Type: USB
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
- Item Weight: 0.39 Kilograms
- Number of Channels: 1
- Frequency Range: 20 – 20000 Hz
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Clear, defined sound. | It only features a cardioid polar pattern. |
| Extraordinarily versatile and can be used for just about anything. | Better for studio use than live, but that was intended. |
| Excellent Transient Response. | It needs a pop filter, but what studio microphone doesn’t |
| Low Mass Diaphragm. | — |
| Affordable. | — |
3. Blue Yeti Best USB
The next option we have available here is the blue yeti – which many consider one of today’s Microphones for YouTube on any budget in terms of recording audio into video formats like YouTube or similar platforms due to its low cost and solid sound quality.
USB microphones can be convenient because you plug them in and go. One of the best features of Blue Yeti is gaining control, which allows for a quieter solo performance or louder group recording sessions with no interference from background noise.
The headphone jack on this microphone lets you monitor latency-free while also monitoring your sound quality without any delay between what’s happening inside and outside of the mic, so there will never be an awkward pause when trying to fix something wrong post-production.
With four modes available (cardioid mode), whether it’s yourself performing live at home or conducting interviews one on one, these versatile settings give everyone options for their own unique needs!
Specifications:
- Brand: Blue Microphones
- Connector Type: USB
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Audio Sensitivity: 120 dB
- Several Batteries: 1 Lithium-ion battery is required.
- Polar Pattern: Multi-pattern
- Item Weight:1670 Grams
- Material: Metal
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Great sound | Price |
| Several pickup patterns | Size |
| Flexible recording | — |
| On-mic levels display | — |
| Gain knob | — |
4. Audio Technica AT2005USB+
A low-mass diaphragm is a key to Audio Technica’s AT2005USB+ incredible sound quality. The wide frequency pickup means you can hear every detail, no matter how high or low-pitched. And if that weren’t enough for your vocal presence, there are plenty of mid-range emphasis features on this mic!
The bottom of the mic has a Micro USB connection, an XLR input, and a 3.5mm headphone output. You’ll also find features that only come into play if you use this device solely for USB purposes, such as sending volume data out through your speakers or headphones during recording sessions with other devices instead because it doesn’t have its built-in amplifier. Like some models do!
The dynamic capsule makes this microphone great for people who live in a noisier environment. It just doesn’t pick up as many extra sounds, and the tablets are more durable, making it last longer than any other type of mic on the market.
Specifications:
- Brand: Audio Technica
- Color: Black
- Connector type: USB
- Power Source: USB\, AC
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
- Item Weight: 454 Grams
- Hardware Platform: PC
- Number of Channels: 1
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Price | We’re not fans of the on/off slider |
| Versatility | — |
| Simple operation | — |
5. Rode Pod Mic Best Budget XLR
With the Rode Pod Mic, you do not need to worry about annoying background noise. The microphone’s sleek and modern design will complement any stage or recording.
The quality of this XLR microphone is incredible and explicitly optimized for voice-based applications. Despite being dynamic, it uses a wide range of frequency responses which ensures more detail.
The sound of the Electric Voice Broadcast Mic is instantly recognizable as if you were listening to talk radio. The tone has an entire presence with present lows that will give your voice more impact but compared to our Podcaster headphones, it sounds slightly compressed in its frequency response and requires speakers straight on (versus at an angle) for best results.
Still, these are minor differences when considering how much money remains after purchasing just one set!
The quality recorded by this XLR microphone is incredible and explicitly optimized for voice-based applications. Despite being dynamic, it uses a wide-range frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz. Consequently, rich, warm lows and crisp high frequencies without sacrificing detail in the process!
Specifications:
- Brand: Rode
- Connector Type: XLR Connector
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
- Item Weight: 937 Grams
- Number of Channels: 1
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Outstanding broadcast sound | Requires an audio interface and boom arm |
| Excellent price and value | — |
| Sturdy build that feels solid and durable | — |
| Good plosive rejection | — |
| Internal shock mount | — |
6. RODE NT USB Microphone
The NT USB is a versatile side-address microphone that can be used for recording singing or musical performances and speaking applications such as podcasting and voice-over.
The USB mic works with Windows and Mac OS computers and the Apple iPad using RODE Reporter App, GarageBand, or any other app that accepts an external microphone.
Use on the Apple iPad requires a suitable adaptor like Camera Connection Kit from apple to connect it via a USB port to use correctly while recording apps are running.
Now you can experiment by changing your tone of voice when adding different character voices during storytelling projects – perfect for audio drama podcasts!
The NT-USB’s tripod stand eliminates handling noise, so only a clean sound reaches the mic.
This side-address cardioid condenser microphone offers a 24-bit resolution with a 48 kHz sampling rate and features an integrated headphone amplifier for zero-latency monitoring.
The RODE NT USB’s custom-designed large-diaphragm capsule provides a smooth frequency response and superior transient response, allowing you to record vocals, musical instruments, or any acoustic sound source with exceptional clarity and detail. The NT USB also features a 3-meter (9.8 ft.) cable.
Specifications:
- Brand: Rode
- Connector Type: USB, 3.5 mm Jack
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
- Item Weight: 1.15 Pounds
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 82 dB
- Hardware Platform: PC, Tablet, Camera
- Number of Channels: 1
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Excellent sound quality | The boom bracket is made of plastic, a known weak point. |
| Extended response, crispiness | — |
| Low noise | — |
| Thoughtful design | — |
| Free pop-shield, decent stand | — |
7. Samson Sagomic Go Mic
The Go Mic is a multi-pattern, portable USB microphone that will ensure your words create the impact you want.
Running on Windows or Mac OS X from any modern browser and compatible with Skype™, Hangouts™ & other popular apps – use it as an extra mic in music production applications such as Ableton Live®, Logic® ProXTM, etc., Plug into video cameras to capture high-quality audio – great for YouTube!
The NT USB is a side-address microphone for recording studios and live performances. The Rode NT USB features an internal pop filter, which helps to reduce plosive sounds when using the microphone at close range.
The microphone has a cardioid pickup pattern, which provides high gain before feedback in live applications. It also has a wide dynamic range, handling loud sounds without distortion. And, there is no need for phantom power as the mic works with any device with an audio input jack.
Specifications:
- Brand: Samson
- Color: White
- Connector Type: USB
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Number of Batteries: 1 Lithium-ion battery required
- Polar Pattern: Multi-pattern
- Item Weight: 0.5 Pounds
- Hardware Platform: Laptop, PC, Camera
- Number of Channels: 1
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Cardioid and omnidirectional patterns | Ball-joint seems fragile |
| Lightweight, portable | Pop filter needed |
| Value | It picks up ambient noise |
| Plug and play | — |
8. Quad Cast USB Condenser
The Hyper X Quad Cast is ready for all your recording needs, no matter your skill level. It has an anti-vibration shock mount to help reduce rumbles and a built-in pop filter to muffle plosive sounds. With this mic, you can instantly know its status by checking the LED indicator, allowing you to mute it on demand without any awkward broadcasting accidents!
If you’re a streamer, you know that good audio is essential. Not only but also, The Quad Cast USB Condenser microphone delivers high-quality sound to capture your voice and bring it out in the best possible way. It’s easy to use, offers four selectable polar patterns for various recording applications, and has an internal pop filter for clear vocals.
The QUAD CAST also features a convenient gain control adjustment to set the incoming audio level – perfect when used with various devices. And because we know that sometimes life gets loud.
Specifications:
- Brand: Hyper X
- Color: Red
- Connector type: USB
- Connectivity Technology: USB power
- Source: Corded Electric
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional, and Stereo
- Item Weight: 1.6 Pounds
- Signal-to-Noise: Ratio90 dB
- Hardware Platform: PC, PS4, PS5, Mac
- Number of Channels: 1
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Excellent sound quality | Only records at 48kHz/16-bit |
| Multiple recording patterns | The shock mount is plastic |
| Programmable lighting | — |
| Includes shock mount and built-in pop filter | — |
9. Elgato Wave:3 Premium USB
The Elgato Wave:3 is a USB microphone that delivers studio-quality sound to your desktop. It features a condenser capsule with a tight cardioid polar pattern that precisely captures speech.
The integrated headphone amplifier allows you to monitor the source levels directly from the microphone, and its gain control lets you adjust the volume as needed. Use the Wave Link app to control Wave: 3 and up to seven other audio sources, plus create two independent mixes.
Use your favorite software for editing audio files for even more customization options.
Elgato Wave:3 Premium USB Audio Interface is a premium audio interface for Mac and PC. It features the highest quality analog to digital-conversion available, with a 24-bit / 96kHz sampling rate.
The Elgato Wave:3 also has proprietary Clip guard technology, making distortion virtually impossible, even at complete volume levels. The high-performance circuitry ensures seamless data transmission, resulting in pristine sound quality.
Last, the Elgato Wave:3 interfaces directly with your computer via a USB cable, making it easy to set up and use right out of the box.
Specifications:
- Brand: Elgato
- Connector Type: USB-C
- Connectivity Technology: Auxiliary, USB
- Audio Sensitivity: 15 dB
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
- Item Weight: 20.64 Ounces
- Material: Plastic, Metal
- Hardware Platform: PC
- Number of Channels: 1
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Sound quality | One recording pattern |
| Wave Link software | De-emphasized bass |
| Build quality | — |
| Audio Clip guard | — |
10. Razer Seiren X USB Streaming Microphone
The Razer Seiren X is a premium USB microphone designed for streamers requiring the highest quality audio output.
The Razer Seiren X is one of the Best Microphones for YouTube and features an omnidirectional polar pattern that captures more detail than any other type of microphone, perfect for streaming and voice-over applications.
The Razer Seiren X ensures that your audience always hears you clearly with its professional sound-level capabilities.
The newly developed pop filter sits on top of the microphone to reduce breath noise and plosives (hard consonants like “P” or “B”).
Also, the Razer Seiren X USB Recording Microphone is a premium microphone with the highest quality recording and streaming capabilities.
Its built-in shock mount can be placed on your desktop or mounted on a boom arm for more versatility.
The mic also has zero-latency monitoring to allow you to hear yourself as you stream. This makes it easier to adjust your audio without waiting for the recording to finish first. It is compatible with all major platforms, including Mac OS, Windows 10, and Xbox One (with an adapter).
Specifications:
- Brand: Razer
- Connector Type: USB
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Power Source: USB
- Audio Sensitivity: 17.8 mV/Pa
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
- Item Weight: 383 Grams
- Material: Aluminum
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Great high-end reproduction | Bass and low mid-range, not the best we’ve heard |
| Competitively priced | Only one polar pattern |
| Easy to setup | Picks up keyboard clicks |
| Portable | — |
Conclusion:
The best microphone for YouTube may not be the one your favorite YouTuber uses. If you want to do a voice-over, have an interview, or need crisp, clear audio in general, then some other considerations will help guide your decision on what mic is suitable for you.
To know more about picking out the perfect microphone and which microphones for YouTube work best with specific tasks, read our blog here!
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