Top 10 Best Microphones For Streaming and Gaming

Counter-Strike has evolved from a simple shooter to a tactical game where every minor detail and timely piece of info significantly impacts the match result. Therefore, if you plan to play professionally or, even more, start your streaming career, you can’t go without a quality microphone.

But how do you choose the one you need in a sea of options? Don’t worry. In this article, we’ll explain all the parameters you need to look out for and help you pick the best streaming mic and gaming.

Please note that the prices are current as of May 2024 and may change over time!

Why Is a Microphone Important For Gaming And Streaming?

It must be pretty obvious how important it is to have a good microphone for streaming. It’s already challenging to make it in streaming, even with all the top equipment. But you can forget about success if you use a shrieky, squawky mic. No sane person would watch you. But what about ordinary players?

In the world of gaming, especially team multiplayer, communicating with your teammates is vital. Proper coordination is key to dominating the game and climbing the ranks. A shoddy microphone will make this extremely difficult, as your microphone might cut out, and your teammates may not be able to hear you. Because of this, players on your team may even mute you, leaving you isolated, talking to yourself. Therefore, it’s imperative to have a decent microphone at your disposal.

Got that right? Now, let’s dive straight into our amazing list of best mics for streaming and gaming!

Monitoring your pro gaming gear stats can give you insights into your performance and areas to improve.

What Should a Microphone Be Like for Streaming?

When picking out the best mic for streaming, there are several key factors to keep in mind that will impact your audio quality and overall streaming experience.

Voltage: Microphones usually need a specific voltage to work. XLR (eXternal Line Return) microphones use phantom power (48V), which is provided by certain audio mixers or interfaces. On the other hand, USB microphones get their power directly from your computer's USB port, so you don’t need to worry about voltage for them.

Pop Filter: A pop filter is a must-have accessory for streamers. It cuts down on plosive sounds like "p" and "b" that cause unwanted bursts of air pressure.

Polar Patterns: Microphones pick up sound from various directions based on their polar patterns:

1. Cardioid: The go-to pattern for streamers. It zeroes in on sound coming directly in front of the microphone, cutting out noise from the sides and back.
2. Omnidirectional: Picks up sound equally from all directions. Great for capturing the entire room's sound, but not ideal for streaming since it catches background noise too.
3. Bidirectional: Picks up sound from the front and back of the microphone. Handy for interviews with two people facing the mic.

Connectivity: Microphones connect to your computer in two main ways:

1. USB: The most common and user-friendly option. USB microphones are plug-and-play, with no extra gear needed.
2. XLR: These pro-level mics require an audio interface to hook up to your computer. XLR mics offer more control and potentially higher audio quality but are a bit more complex to set up.

Frequency Response: This is about the range of frequencies a microphone can capture accurately. The human ear hears roughly between 20 Hz and 20,000 Hz. Most streaming mics will cover this range.

Sensitivity: A microphone's sensitivity reflects how well it converts sound waves into electrical signals. More sensitive mics pick up quieter sounds but are also more prone to capturing background noise. On the other hand, less sensitive mics need louder sounds to pick up but are better in noisy environments.

In the end, the best mic for you depends on your setup, the audio quality you want, and how comfortable you are with tech. Check out our list to find your best live streaming microphone that fits your needs!

HyperX QuadCast S USB Condenser Microphone RGB Lighting

Calling all gamers who love RGB flair! The HyperX QuadCast S is your go-to microphone with stunning, customizable RGB lighting that amps up your setup's aesthetics. This USB microphone features a built-in pop filter for clear audio and comes permanently attached to a shock mount, effectively reducing background noise and vibrations. While this enhances sound quality, it limits portability compared to other best streaming microphones with detachable shock mounts.

Voltage: N/A

Pop filter: Yes

Polar patterns: Stereo, Omnidirectional, Cardioid, Bidirectional

Connectivity: USB-C, 3.5mm headphone output

Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz

Sensitivity: -36dB

Pros:

1. Compatible with most boom arms and microphone stands;
2. Easy sensitivity and polar patterns control with external dials;
3. Tap-to-mute sensor.

Cons:

1. Resolution capture is not the highest;
2. Ngenuity software only for PC;
3. Low mic input level.

Price: $117.79

BLUE YETI Multi-Pattern USB Microphone

Blue Yeti USB microphone might be the most popular computer mic on the market. It combines a very stylish design with three condenser capsules in a tri-capsule array, allowing this microphone to record audio in just about any situation and in multiple directions. There’s a handy mute button on the mic itself, and the headphone jack makes for a quick, zero-latency experience. This is also a plug-and-play device, so setting it up and using it is a cinch. All these factors add up to make it perhaps the best microphone for gaming and streaming available today.

Voltage: N/A

Pop filter: No

Polar patterns: Cardioid, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional, Stereo

Connectivity: USB-C, 3.5 mm aux out

Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz

Sensitivity: 120 dB

Pros:

1. Nice recording quality with multiple modes;
2. Reasonable price;
3. Great design;
4. Clear vocals;
5. Easy layout of controls.

Cons:

1. Sensitivity to pops and shocks;
2. No XLR output;
3. Outmatched by rivals for quality of sound;
4. No hi-res recording;
5. Crunchy audio specs.

Price: $109.99

Elgato Wave:3

Elgato, a leader in streaming equipment, delivers the Wave:3 microphone, perfect for live streamers. Its star feature is the Wave Link software, allowing effortless mixing of up to eight audio channels directly in your stream.

The Wave:3's compact design and USB-C connection make it ideal for desktops, offering excellent audio for live videos, remote interviews, or podcasts. However, for creators seeking wider versatility, it features only one polar pattern for sound pickup. But, if you aren’t interested in creating various content, this would be the best microphone for streamers. It picks up voice very clearly, allowing for effective communication.

Voltage: N/A

Pop filter: No

Polar patterns: Cardioid

Connectivity: USB TYPE-C, 3.5mm aux out

Frequency response: 70 Hz - 20,000 Hz

Sensitivity: -25 dB (min gain) | 15 dB (max gain)

Pros:

1. Simple design;
2. Light and small;
3. Crisp sound quality.

Cons:

1. Overpriced for the features it offers;
2. One recording pattern;
3. Underemphasized bass.

Price: $129.99

Shure SM7B

Shure SM7B isn't your average streamer mic. This microphone packs built-in recording studios, making it a favorite even among professional vocalists. Streamers, podcasters, and talk show hosts have also taken notice, with big names like Shroud and Tfue rocking the SM7B.

So what makes it special? The SM7B's secret weapon is its ability to capture smooth, rich audio even in less-than-ideal recording spaces. It doesn't flinch at background noise and even has a built-in pop filter to tame those pesky plosives. Plus, you can fine-tune your sound with three different frequency response settings.

However, to get it up and running, you'll need a microphone stand, XLR cable, and an audio interface. Think of it as investing in a pro-level audio toolkit.

Voltage: 48V (phantom power)

Pop filter: Yes

Polar patterns: Cardioid

Connectivity: XLR

Frequency response: 50 Hz - 20,000 Hz

Sensitivity: -59 dB

Pros:

1. Clear and detailed sound;
2. Blocks room noise;
3. Very durable;
4. High SPL.

Cons:

1. Expensive;
2. Clunky;
3. Lower output than some other mics.

Price: $359.00

BLUE SONA

Logitech’s Blue Sona takes streaming microphones to a whole new level, easily outstanding Yeti. What sets it apart? Well, the Blue Sona is a XLR mic, giving you crisper sound quality. It records at a higher bitrate and boasts a more professional build. At $350, it’s the priciest option, yet the best streaming microphone. It is suitable for everything, especially for broadcasting.

Voltage: 24V or 48V (phantom power)

Pop filter: Yes

Polar patterns: Supercardioid

Connectivity: XLR

Frequency response: 40 Hz – 18,000 Hz

Sensitivity: -34 dB

Pros

1. Sleek, minimalist design.
2. Waterproof;
3. Low self-noise;
4. Requires less input-gain;
5. Bass-cut and presence switches.

Cons:

1. Expensive;
2. Needs phantom power.

Price: $349.99

Audio-Technica Cardioid Condenser Microphone AT2020

Audio-Technica’s AT2020 Cardioid Condenser is a standout mic, and it might just be the best USB microphone for its price. This microphone features a side-address condenser with a USB output, so you can plug it straight into your PC without needing extra gear.

This microphone is reportedly perfect for environments where you can’t control background noise, making it perfect for beginners. Notable streamers like Ninja, Pokimane, Yassuo, and Dr. DisRespect use these mics, so we confidently rank it among the best microphones for streaming.

Voltage: 48V (phantom power)

Pop filter: Yes

Polar patterns: Cardioid

Connectivity: XLR or USB

Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz

Sensitivity: -37 dB

Pros: 

1. Multiple connectivity options;
2. Very durable;
3. Great price.

Cons:

1. No XLR cable included;
2. XLR version requires a pre-amp.

Price: $99

Razer Seiren V2 Pro

Razer Seiren V2 Pro is another top contender in our list of the best gaming microphones. It brings professional-grade, high-fidelity audio to your streams, sitting securely on a stable desktop stand that minimizes vibrations. To unleash its full potential, you'll need Razer's Synapse software, which provides precise mic controls, though setting it up on a PC can be a bit tricky (unfortunately, it's not compatible with Mac). While the Seiren V2 Pro delivers outstanding performance, it does require some software setup compared to simpler USB microphones.

Voltage: N/A

Pop filter: No

Polar patterns: Cardioid

Connectivity: USB

Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz

Sensitivity: -34 dB

Pros:

1. Great Razer Synapse software;
2. Durable microphone stand with built-in swivel;
3. Low-latency monitoring.

Cons:

1. Razer Synapse doesn’t support macOS;
2. Requires a lot of setup to get the best sound.

Price: $175

RODE NT-USB+ CONDENSER MICROPHONE

Rode NT-USB+ Condenser Microphone delivers broadcast-sound quality, featuring low-noise circuitry and robust metal construction that minimizes handling noise. With various accessories included, it’s designed for easy portability. However, the mic may not be suitable for everyone due to its high sensitivity to external noises, necessitating either room treatment with sound-proof materials or the use of third-party software.

Voltage: N/A

Pop filter: Yes

Polar patterns: Cardioid

Connectivity: 3.5 mm headphone connection, USB-C connectivity

Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20000 Hz

Sensitivity: -34 dB

Pros:

1. Amazing sound quality;
2. Sturdy build and design.

Cons:

1. No gain control dial;
2. Extra sensitivity to external noises.

Price: $169.00

BLUE SNOWBALL ICE USB

Blue is another prominent player in the streaming microphone market, and their Snowball is their entry-level offering. Despite being relatively affordable, the Snowball stands out as the best streamer microphone. It boasts studio-quality audio for streaming, thanks to Blue’s renowned condenser capsule technology, ensuring natural sound reproduction. With its straightforward USB connection, the Snowball offers a hassle-free plug-and-play experience unmatched by many others. Plus, its stylish design perfectly complements its name.

Voltage: N/A

Pop filter: No

Polar patterns: Cardioid

Connectivity: USB

Frequency response: 40 Hz - 18,000 Hz

Sensitivity: -120 dB

Pros:

1. Interesting futuristic design;
2. Crisp and clear audio;
3. Multiple pickup patterns;
4. Affordability.

Cons:

1. Stand sits low on a desk.

Price: $49.99

SAMSON GO MIC COMPACT USB MICROPHONE

Samson Go Mic Compact USB Microphone packs quality audio into a very compact form, perfect for on-the-go streaming or podcasting. Despite its decade-old technology, it remains one of the top choices for portable microphones for streaming.

The mic lets you record directly into your preferred software, whether you’re using Mac or PC. The mic is also perfect for communicating online while gaming, as it brings a level of clarity unmatched at this price point. Plus, it is also a great mic for streaming outdoors.

Voltage: N/A

Pop filter: No

Polar patterns: Cardioid and Omni

Connectivity: USB

Frequency response: Cardioid 80 Hz – 18,000 Hz, Omni 20 Hz – 20000 Hz

Sensitivity: -47 dB

Pros:

1. Affordable;
2. Extremely portable;
3. Clear signal;
4. Customizable stand.

Cons:

1. Aging technology;
2. Lack of gain knob;
3. Limited digital signal processing.

Price: $29.99

CONCLUSION

There you have it—a diverse selection of the best headphones with mics. You can’t go wrong with any of them, but research will undoubtedly be required if you choose the one that fits your needs. Be sure to use a “test my microphone” application to ensure the mic you purchased is of high quality, and pay attention to the warranty for added peace of mind.

In today’s competitive streaming landscape, many streamers are battling for a limited number of viewers. Choosing the best microphone for streaming is paramount to stand out in this cutthroat environment, and the options provided in this list aim to assist you in making that crucial decision.