Most gamers do not think about a dedicated microphone when building a gaming PC.
Instead, they look for a gaming headset with a high-quality mic. Usually, that would be smooth for in-game communication and voice chats, if any.
AT A GLANCE: Our Top 5 Picks for RGB Fans
- Winner: Corsair Elgato Wave 3 USB Condenser Microphone
- Shure MV7 USB Podcast Microphone
- HyperX QuadCast S USB Condenser Microphone
- Blue Yeti Nano Condenser USB Microphone
- Blue Yeti Slate USB Microphone
However, when you start streaming, the whole story changes a bit. Contrary to what we may think, your stream audience is not just there to watch you play the game. They are there for some entertainment.
And it is essential that your stream audience can listen to your reactions and comments with high quality. It is also why you need a standalone microphone for streaming.
As you may already know, the best microphone for streaming is unique from the standard microphones you can find in the market. You have to consider a few factors while choosing a microphone for your needs.
For instance, you should see if the mic comes with a compatible connector, uses a suitable polar pattern, and a few advanced features like noise-canceling and padded comfort. You may also want to look for some niche features like a one-click mute button and multiple polar patterns.
If you are into other entertainment forms than streaming, these features will come in handy. For instance, if you have a podcast or an ASMR channel, a powerful microphone adds insane value. Therefore, when you get the best microphone for streaming, you make a long-term investment.
Of course, a dedicated microphone does not make you a Pro streamer overnight. Nevertheless, if you can develop quality-rich content, a superior audio quality will make your audience stick around.
To make it easy for you to select the best, we have prepared a list of the best five microphones for streaming. You can pick from one of these five based on the features you need.
Best Microphone for Streaming For 2021
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | Â |
|---|---|---|---|
Overall Best |
Corsair Elgato Wave 3 USB Condenser Microphone |
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VIEW ON AMAZON → |
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Shure MV7 USB Podcast Microphone |
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VIEW ON AMAZON → |
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HyperX QuadCast S USB Condenser Microphone |
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VIEW ON AMAZON → |
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Blue Yeti Nano Condenser USB Microphone |
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VIEW ON AMAZON → |
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Blue Yeti Slate USB Microphone |
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VIEW ON AMAZON → |
Winner: Corsair Elgato Wave 3 USB Condenser Microphone
- Connector: USB
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
- Power Source: USB
- Hardware Platform: PC and Mac
The Elgato Wave 3 USB Condenser Microphone from Corsair is undoubtedly one of the best mics for content creators. You can count on this product for streaming, podcasts, and original audio production.
On top of its durable build and sound quality, this streaming microphone packs many features that streamers would love. We picked the Wave 3 Microphone as the winner because of the comprehensive package it offers to almost every streamer, podcaster, and content creator out there. It thus becomes a valuable addition to your desk.
Benefits
- The Elgato Wave 3 USB Condenser Microphone comes with a classy design to ensure maximum sound quality and durability. Its steel grille brings smooth sound diffusion while the U-mount with padded base increases protection. Under the hood, a multilayered noise shield and the cardioid polar pattern will reduce plosive noises and pick up high-quality speech, respectively.
- This premium-quality microphone does not compromise the overall quality of audio exports, either. Thanks to high-end circuitry in use, the mic can pull off 24-bit/96kHz analog to digital conversion and ensure you the best-quality broadcast audio with ease. Combined with the Wave Link processing tool from the company, you can offer the best audio to your audience.
- Despite the advanced hardware inside, the Elgato Wave 3 USB Condenser Microphone is streaming-friendly to the core. The multifunctional dial lets you control input gain, control headphone volume, and toggle crossfade between mic and PC mix. Similarly, you can easily connect the Wave Link tools as an audio source in OBS or other software you use. We must also praise the capacitive mute button.
- It feels fantastic to use the microphone with the Wave Link processing suite. The makers have built Wave Link for streamers and podcasters. Once you have connected the microphone to your PC/Mac via USB, you can use Wave Link to control even the minute aspects of the sound input. Its real-time editing options come in handy more often than you think.
- You can connect the Elgato Wave 3 USB Condenser Microphone to an impressive variety of accessories out there. For instance, you can use a Stream Desk to control the multiple mic and volume options with the device. And, when you have the right accessories available to you, the device can work fine without heavy-duty audio processing hardware.
Drawbacks
- Based on the high price we pay, it must be nice to see multiple recording patterns in this mic. But it only comes with a unidirectional polar pattern. It means you may not have the best experience using the mic for podcasts or streams with multiple people. Some reviews also mention that the audio from the mic does not have much bass.
- Some users also find it annoying that the product does not come with a pop filter. On the bright side, you have an option to get an accessory that suits your streaming/recording environment the best. It could be one of those additional filters or the mounting devices for the Elgato Wave 3 USB Condenser Microphone.
Extra Features
The best feature in the Elgato Wave 3 USB Condenser Microphone package is the Wave Link audio processing suite. Even if you have zero prior experience in audio management, this suite will help you bring the best audio to your stream/podcast audience. We also love the plug-and-play system, where you plug in the USB Type-C cable and start working.
We also loved the incredible tech support and community options from Elgato. Even if you encounter some trouble or have some doubts, getting rid of them would not be a problem. Given that thousands of streamers use this microphone regularly, tutorials are easy to find.
Buying Advice
We believe the Elgato Wave 3 USB Condenser Microphone comes with every feature an entry-level or a mid-level streamer needs. The microphone is easy to set up, and the Wave Link audio suite makes things easier.
Thanks to the premium hardware inside, you do not have to worry about noise or distortion. The intuitive set of controls available on the dial adds incredible value. Overall, if you do not mind paying a bit high for a superior microphone, you can buy this mic.
Runner-Up: Shure MV7 USB Podcast Microphone
- Connector: USB/XLR
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Hardware Platform: PC and Smartphone
Here is our runner-up pick among the best microphones for streaming. Contrary to our best pick, the Shure MV7 USB Podcast Microphone is an ultra-premium microphone. It has been designed for podcasts, but you can smoothly use it for streaming as well.
However, the premium amount you pay with this product brings you exceptional sound quality and customization options. Therefore, if you need maximum control over the output, you can consider this option.
Benefits
- Because of the premium design, the Shure MV7 USB Podcast Microphone provides you the best level of control over the recording options. First, you can choose between USB and XLR connections. While the USB connection is great for quick and easy audio recording, analog recording via XLR may offer you certain benefits.
- It is worth noting that we are dealing with a dynamic microphone. Compared to a standard condenser microphone, this product performs better in noise cancellation and intelligent noise pickup. So, even if you are in a noisy room, the microphone will make recording an easy task. Of course, you can count on the built-in headphone jack for real-time monitoring.
- As a streamer, you must quickly alter the settings. Therefore, the intuitive touch panel controls will surely help you. You can use the touch panel controls to adjust the gain, headphone volume, various mix options, and instant mic mute. Once you get the hang of the buttons, controlling the audio will be an easy task.
- The ShurePlus MOTIV desktop app is a better audio processing suite than Wave Link. The suite allows you to make the best out of the Voice Isolation technology and mic position presets. You can also choose a suitable sound and tone from dark, natural, or bright options. Even though the app packs so many features, the User Interface is straightforward.
- Finally, the Shure MV7 USB Podcast Microphone comes with incredible build quality. Its all-metal construction ensures that the product can stay working even in rough conditions. It also means you will face minimal distortion and disturbance from the components. Therefore, it delivers the best-quality vocals.
Drawbacks
- Even though it charges a considerable amount, the Shure MV7 USB Podcast Microphone offers only a single polar pattern. Provided that it advertises to be a microphone for streaming and podcasting alike, we expected to see some advanced options. It is also a little inconvenient that the mic requires a dedicated power supply.
- Similarly, the package does not contain many things we need to get started. For instance, you do not get a mic stand or mount. You can choose from various compatible hardware from the market on the bright side. On a related note, we must mention that you should be ready to shell out a massive amount for this product.
Extra Features
The Noise Isolation technology on the Shure MV7 USB Podcast Microphone works seamlessly. It gives you high-quality sound even when surrounded by a lot of noise. If you are a budding streamer who cannot afford a dedicated studio yet, spending extra on this dynamic microphone will be a worthwhile investment. You can also count on the broadcast-quality standards from Shure.
Even though there are customization options, you can use the mic in a plug-and-play manner. If you plan to do so, the smartphone connectivity support will be a great feature. You can use various cables to connect to your iPhone or Android smartphone. The product does not ship with any, though.
Buying Advice
Though there are some caveats, the Shure MV7 USB Podcast Microphone appeals to most streamers as an incredible investment. Its high-quality construction and versatile customization options add so much value to the streaming process.
The Voice Isolation technology allows you to use the microphone in various environments. All this time, you can count on the intuitive touch control panel and slider to take control of the audio input and output.
Alternative: HyperX QuadCast S USB Condenser Microphone
- Connector: USB
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional, and Stereo
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Hardware platform: PC, PS5, PS4, Mac
If you are looking for specific features like multiple polar patterns and RGB lighting, you should consider the QuadCast S USB Condenser Microphone from HyperX. A product from a company known for gaming-centric hardware, the mic is no exception in terms of quality. Even better, you do not have to spend so much to get the product.
Benefits
- Unlike our winner and runner-up picks, the HyperX QuadCast S – RGB USB Condenser Microphone supports four different polar patterns. You can pick between Cardioid, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional, and Stereo patterns depending on what you want to record.
- You can use the mic with various platforms, including PC, Mac, and PS5. The best part is that you can use a single USB cable to connect to the system. Because the microphone draws power from another corded electric cord, you would not have performance issues, either.
- As we mentioned earlier, the product comes with a built-in RGB lighting system. You can adjust the light using the HyperX Ngenuity software. The tap-to-mute sensor also works flawlessly, and the LED indicator is a worthwhile addition.
Drawbacks
- We noticed that the HyperX QuadCast S – RGB USB Condenser Microphone does not have a portable design. Because it requires external power and a few cables, you would need more space to place the microphone setup.
- In terms of design, the product is not flexible. We also noticed that the Ngenuity software is available only on PC. It does not sync in with the compatibility standards of the product. On the bright side, its USB connectivity is an enjoyable aspect.
External Features
The highly customizable RGB lighting features and the intuitive control panels are some of the extra features we loved in the HyperX QuadCast S – RGB USB Condenser Microphone package. You can also get an excellent experience from the multiple polar patterns.
Buying Advice
If you are into game streaming, the HyperX QuadCast S – RGB USB Condenser Microphone is one of the best options indeed. The product checks all the boxes when it comes to quality. You can customize the sound to a great extent as well.
Alternative: Blue Yeti Nano Condenser USB Microphone
- Connector: USB
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
- Power Source: USB
- Hardware Platform: PC and Mac.
The Blue Yeti Nano Condenser USB Microphone is an excellent alternative if affordability is your fundamental concern. The product comes with multiple pickup patterns and no-latency recording, providing an effortless streaming experience for most people. You can use the product for other needs like podcasts and vocals.
Benefits
- Compared to the other microphones on this list, the Blue Yeti Nano Condenser USB Microphone has a straightforward interface. You can connect the mic to your PC via USB and start recording instantly. It is thus an impressive choice for beginner streamers and podcast artists.
- As a streamer or podcaster, you would love the ergonomic design of the product. Because the mic comes with a desktop stand, you do not have to worry about placement. Since all the required cables are routed through the bottom, your desk will stay less messy.
- Even though it has only a Unidirectional polar pattern, it can adjust itself for several situations. When combined with the two custom capsules and the real-time monitoring options, it is an excellent solution for streamers.
Drawbacks
- Although the Blue Yeti Nano Condenser USB Microphone claims to have multiple pickup options, the real-world impact is slightly different. You cannot control the directions from which the mic will pick up the sound.
- Modifying the gain levels and other sound elements requires a third-party desktop app. It may be a caveat if you are looking for advanced output control from the package.
External Features
The Blue Yeti Nano Condenser USB Microphone does not have any noticeable extra features.
Buying Advice
If you are looking for a decent condenser microphone, the Blue Yeti Nano Condenser USB Microphone is an impressive choice. Without spending too much, you get several streaming-friendly features. Finally, you can count on the build quality as well.
Alternative: Blue Yeti Slate USB Microphone
- Connector: USB
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Hardware Platform: PC
The Blue Yeti Slate USB Microphone is another excellent choice when you need a complete microphone kit to get started with. The package contains the Blue Yeti Slate Microphone and the studio monitor headphones, and Knox Gear Pop Filter for the mic. Therefore, the extra amount you pay for the device seems reasonable enough.
Benefits
- Because the Blue Yeti Slate USB Microphone comes as a ready-to-use package, it is a relief for most streamers and podcasters. You can start using the mic out of the box. Thanks to the high-quality set of headphones, real-time monitoring works as a piece of cake.
- On its own, the Blue Yeti Slate USB Microphone is an excellent solution for audio capture. You can record your favorite content in 16-bit quality and use the Gain Control options for the best results. You can also count on the tactile buttons on the device.
- Like some of the premium microphones on this list, the Blue Yeti Slate USB Microphone supports multiple pickup modes. You can choose between Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Stereo, and Bidirectional Polar patterns.
Drawbacks
- Experts do not recommend the Blue Yeti Slate USB Microphone for a multi-head setup. However, if you can give up this feature, it would be nice to use it. After all, the device checks all those essential boxes.
Extra Features
We could not find any useful extra features in the Blue Yeti Slate USB Microphone package.
Buying Advice
You do not have to think twice before getting the Blue Yeti Slate USB Microphone for your streaming/content creation needs. In the end, this portable device works in sync with the pop filter and the headphone you get along with it. Therefore, monitoring the audio quality would not be a tiresome affair.
Microphone for Streaming FAQ
What type of mic is best for streaming?
The best type of microphone will depend on the content you stream. If you have a simple streaming setup where you need a mic to add in-game comments, you are good with an entry-level condenser mic. On the other hand, if you want to control the audio output, you would be better with a dynamic mic in the market.
You should check for some additional features like one-click mute, gain control, and mix toggle options in both these categories. These features will add value while working closely with the streaming or podcasting setup.
Is a headset mic good enough for streaming?
There are times when a headset mic does the job for standard streaming. However, we cannot say if they are good enough. As you probably know, streaming is becoming competitive every single minute.
Therefore, you must provide the best experience to the audience to stay and come back. However, looking from that point of view, a headset mic does not cut it. You will have a better streaming experience with a dedicated microphone.
Can you stream without a mic?
Of course, you can stream without a mic. But you would not want to. Streaming without a mic is more like watching a movie without the soundtrack. It would be best to understand that you have to entertain the stream audience.
And, your gameplay would not be enough, especially when it comes to co-op games and the super-popular ones like Among Us. It is better to have a streaming setup that gets the job done through a dedicated mic in these situations.
How do streamers talk to the viewers on mute?
Most dedicated microphones come with a standalone button to mute and unmute the microphone. Using the switch is the best way to talk to the stream viewers when playing a game.
The best part is that you can do this using a minimal setup. Even if you have the most budget-friendly microphone for streaming, you can find this mute button.
Conclusion
We believe the options we have recommended lead you to the best microphone for streaming for you.
We have ensured that all the products on the list check some essential quality boxes. Choosing one of the five options with your eyes closed will give you a microphone setup that you can rely on for streaming and content creation.
And as far as we understand the ongoing demands of streamers, this can help you get maximum value for the money you spend.
