If you create any sort of visual or audio content online, making sure your voice is crisp and clear is very important. Maybe you produce a podcast for your audience to listen too, or perhaps you stream on Twitch, or live broadcast on YouTube. With all these things, your audience can sometimes forgive if you miss focus with your camera, but audio is key to them sticking around.
I have been a long-time YouTube content creator and also created a few podcasts too. Here are my top picks for USB microphones that will deliver on the quality front. All links in this article are affiliate links, they do not cost you a penny extra, but do earn Geekanoids a small commission on purchases.
In top spot is the Rode NT-USB. I should mention that Rode to sponsor Geekanoids, but have not asked me to include their mic in this roundup. This particular mic is my top pick because I have used it for a couple of years now and it delivers great quality audio and is super simply to use. As with all the USB microphones mentioned here, there is no need for an audio interface, you just plug in and you’re ready to go.
The Rode NT-USB features a Large 1" capsule with gold-plated membrane and an internal rycote lyre capsule shock mounting system. It’s ultra-low noise too, so even in those quiet moments you don’t hear the hiss that’s sometimes associated with cheaper mics. There is an on-mic mix control and the NT-USB is also compatible with the Apple iPad. The package includes a tripod stand, pop shield and ring mount.
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Next up is the Blue Microphones Yeti. This is available in a range of colours and is a very popular choice. Not only does it look great, it sounds superb too. I have personally used one of these too and can definitely recommend this for being a very sturdy option with an excellent and very heavy stand. It features a tri-capsule array whereby the three condenser capsules can record almost any situation. There is a multiple pattern selection knob on the back of the mic, where you can choose cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional & stereo patterns. You also get gain control, mute button, zero-latency headphone output.
This is perfect for podcasting, voiceovers, interviews, game streaming, vocals, musical instruments, field recordings, conference calls, and more.
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Last but not least is the AmazonBasics Professional USB Condenser Microphone which I have not personally used, but heard good things about. It's a professional USB condenser microphone with excellent sound quality when recording and zero latency output for clear, instant audio. Ideal for recording vocals, instruments, podcasts, home movies, and more. It features 3 condenser capsules and 4 pick-up patterns: cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, and stereo. It also includes a 1.49-m USB cable and an adjustable stand. Sometimes this goes on a deep discount, so can be picked up for a very good price.
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