If you’re looking to get into streaming or podcasting, gaining an audience is key to your success, and nothing will turn them away quicker than poor audio. Arming your setup with a top-notch microphone for streaming, like the Blue Yeti X or one of our other favorites, will ensure you come across clean and clear to listeners, whether you’re broadcasting live over Twitch or bringing a point home on your latest podcast episode.
TL;DR – These are the Best Microphones for Streaming:
- Blue Yeti X – Best overall
- NZXT Capsule Mini – Best budget
- SteelSeries Alias Pro – Best high-end
- HyperX SoloCast – Best ultra-cheap
- Shure MV7+ – Best hybrid
- HyperX QuadCast S – Best for gaming
- Rode NT-USB+ – Best for podcasting
- Elgato Wave 3 – Best plug-in-play
- Razer Seiren V3 Mini – Best for beginners
- PowerDeWise Lavalier Microphone – Best wearable
You might get by using one of the best gaming headsets when chatting with teammates on Discord, but those tiny built-in or boom mics don’t come close to the sound quality of a standalone microphone. There’s no reason to be intimidated by these devices either, as even novices will figure out how to work the USB microphones we’ve selected in no time. Want to kick your stream up a notch? Maybe an XLR mic is worth the investment for next-level audio.
Many of the best microphones for streaming offer additional software, onboard buttons, and indicators to make your life easier and give you more control over how you sound. However, the range of microphones available is overwhelming, so we’ve narrowed your search to our top ten streaming options, from budget and beginner-friendly to high-end and game-ready – and click here to find them in the UK.
1. Blue Yeti X
Best Microphone for Streaming
Blue has been synonymous with high-quality, affordable streaming microphones for years, and with the Yeti X, the tradition continues. This USB condenser mic has everything you loved in the original Yeti but adds additional features like an onboard vocal meter, Smart Knob, and a fourth condenser capsule. So, if you're streaming while gaming, you can ensure you're not blowing out the ears of your teammates, while the new knob offers controls for gain, mute, headphone volume, and blend. That extra capsule also helps improve your overall sound.
The Blue Yeti X is insanely versatile, thanks to the ample ways it helps you capture quality vocals. There are four polar patterns to choose from, so it’s perfect for recording live streams, one-on-one interviews, group conference calls, and even instruments. Its build quality is impeccable, with a durable metal body and stand accommodating a wide tilt range, making finding the perfect angle a breeze. And once you start recording, if you want to tune the mic in any way or make customizations, you don’t need to invest in any additional software, as the Blue Voice platform is robust but simple enough for anyone to figure out.
2. NZXT Capsule Mini
Best Budget Microphone for Streaming
You don’t need to spend a fortune to get into the streaming game. Just look at the NZXT Capsule Mini. It’s a smaller, cheaper version of the NZXT Capsule but still delivers crisp, clear vocal and sound recording. With only a cardioid pattern, this mic is best for solo users. However, that also means it picks up less noise from behind, so you won’t hear your gaming PC humming or other distracting noises in your stream.
The NZXT Capsule Mini’s looks are sleek and simple, while a good deal of plastic is used in the design, making it slightly less durable than other mics on this list. On board is a USB-C mic for connecting to your computer and an aux jack to plug in headphones. Unfortunately, there are no advanced audio controls, only a volume on the mic, so if you want to make adjustments sound, you’ll need to do that using NZXT’s CAM software. Even then, you’re still limited to changing gain, volume, and some tone settings.
3. SteelSeries Alias Pro
Best High-End Microphone for Streaming
Want next-level audio at home? SteelSeries brings it with the Alias Pro. Rather than going for your more typical USB mic, it’s an XLR option and even includes a special interface called the Stream Mixer, so you don’t need to worry about grabbing any extra equipment to get the mic working. Sure, there’s more of a learning curve with XLR microphones, but SteelSeries uncomplicates things with the Stream Mixer, making it an almost plug-and-play option ideal for those looking to dive a little deeper into the world of microphones.
The SteelSeries Alias Pro’s Stream Mixer interface offers large buttons and controls, giving you easy access to adjust gain, volume, and mute, which is especially handy for gamers and streamers. There are even two USB ports to connect multiple PCs. If you want to take your stream even further and make more customizations, SteelSeries’ excellent Sonar software is a tool that can get you there, though the mic does sound great straight out of the box.
4. HyperX SoloCast
Best Ultra Cheap Microphone for Streaming
Are you just starting the streaming game and not ready to invest in a super pricey microphone? We’ve got you covered. The HyperX SoloCast is an excellent, beginner-friendly option for around $40. Sometimes you sacrifice sound quality for a lower price, but with this option, there’s no need to worry. The sound is on par with its bigger, more expensive brother, the HyperX Quadcast S.
The HyperX SoloCast might not have all the fancy features of a more expensive model, but it gets the job done. There is only a single cardioid polar pattern, hence the “solo” in the name. It works best with a single voice, so the mic is ideal if you're looking to use it for streaming while gaming or creating content. You may occasionally want to set up at a friend's house or take the mic with you on vacation, and with its compact size and simple plug-in-play USB-C setup, that’s easy to do. However, if you're hoping for more advanced audio controls, you may be better off uping your budget for a mic with a bigger feature set. With the SoloCast, you aren’t getting any dials or buttons, only a tap-to-mute feature. But, if you want high-fidelity and all the basics, the HyperX SoloCast is your best option.
5. Shure MV7+
Best Hybrid XLR/USB Microphone for Streaming
Some microphones rise above the rest, and the versatile Shure MV7+ is proof of this. This updated model of the MV7 costs about $35 more than its predecessor, and the improvements made make it worth the splurge. We welcome Shure’s swapping out of the dated micro USB in favor of a USB-C, and the XLR output is still intact. So in addition to being an easy plug-in-play option for recording just about anywhere, the microphone works seamlessly with different DAWs for a professional, higher-quality sound. It’s even possible to do both simultaneously – a real best-of-both-worlds situation.
Shure keeps a similar sturdy aluminum frame and still makes you pay extra for a stand with this new microphone, but it has opted for a thicker pop filter along with a popper stopper and denoiser, helping to eliminate plosive sounds and ambient noise better than before. However, the MV7+ sees most on-mic controls taken away. Instead, it has a flashy little LED panel that can be used as a level meter and just a single-touch control to mute/unmute. At least Shure’s MOTIV app is pretty solid and easy to use, so making real-time adjustments to sound levels and tone won’t be overly complicated.
Inside the Shure MV7+, much remains the same. The dynamic capsule captures only a cardioid polar pattern, which is great for solo podcasting, game streaming, or music recording, while the high-resolution 48kHz sample rate and a 24-bit depth offer superior sound compared to other mics. So, you’re all but guaranteed to record warm, crisp audio.
6. HyperX QuadCast S
Best Microphone for Gaming
If you’re streaming your game to fans or even just interacting with teammates, a better quality mic, something you won’t find in even a high-end gaming headset, can make all the difference. One of the best microphones made specifically for gaming is the HyperX Quadcast S, and it stands out from all the rest, quite literally, with the customizable RGB lighting. But it’s packing plenty more like a superb, sturdy build and top-notch features you’ll be excited to show off as you stream while playing some of the latest PC games like Starfield and Baldur's Gate 3.
Though the HyperX Quadcast S may have all the gaming peripherals you’d want, it’s not exclusively for gaming — all the bells and whistles are there for anyone getting into the recording game. There are a total of four different pickup patterns, each one delivering impressive results. You can use it for streaming on Twitch, but it’ll also work for interviews, group meetings, or live music. You can swap between those polar patterns using an on-mic selector while also being able to adjust the gain. As a word of warning, it’s pretty easy to nudge the levels, so be careful after you’ve found the ideal gain settings. The 48kHz sample rate at a 16-bit depth and 20Hz-20kHz frequency response range also ensure accurate recording by covering the full range of human hearing.
7. Rode NT-USB+
Best Microphone for Podcasting
Everyone has a podcast these days, and maybe you’re ready to join in on the fun, so to be sure you don’t make a rookie mistake by recording subpar audio, grab the Rode NT-USB+. This professional condenser mic delivers crisp, sultry vocals while eliminating most other noise thanks to its cardioid polar pattern. A detachable pop filter also comes in handy to prevent the annoying popping sound from too much air hitting the mic—so feel free to get overly excited about a topic with no editing nightmare later.
If you’re new to microphones, you’ll especially appreciate the plug-and-play nature of Rode’s NT-USB+ USB-C connection, while a high-power headphone output offers zero-latency monitoring. Unfortunately, you don’t get on-mic gain control, though, with only dials for controlling mix and headphone volume. However, using one of Rode’s various apps, you can bring your recordings to the next level and take advantage of its internal DSP for advanced audio processing.
8. Elgato Wave 3
Best Plug-In-Play Microphone for Streaming
Sometimes all you want is a microphone that you just plug in and sound great on, and the Elgato Wave 3 is exactly that. Setting it up is as simple as it gets; you just plug it into your computer via USB-C, and you’re ready to run. There are no extra wires or programs you’ll have to figure out like you would with an XLR mic. To make life even easier, you get loads of control on-mic. In addition to a mute button, a dial can alternately control volume, gain, and adjust the balance between system level and side tone. There’s even a port on the back of the unit if you want to listen to your recording on headphones.
Since there is such ease of use, you may question whether the Elegato Wave 3 will sound great, and there is no need to worry. There is an impressively high audio resolution with a 96kHz sample rate and 24-bit depth. Sometimes, you might get a little loud or too close to the mic during an intense moment in a game, but thankfully the Clipguard cuts out any distortion. Unfortunately, there is only one cardioid polar pattern, but it’s all streamers and podcasters really need. There’s also an unexpected bonus in the Wavelink software, making audio mixing a breeze.
9. Razer Seiren V3 Mini
Best Microphone for Beginner Streamers
Just getting into streaming? An affordable, great-sounding, and easy-to-use microphone is the way to go, and the Razer Seiren V3 Mini is the best one for the job. This model improves upon Razer’s original Seiren Mini, which we reviewed and loved. It’s a plug-in-play little number. So, to begin using it is as simple as plugging the microphone into your computer via a USB port. From there, it should be automatically recognized, and you’ll be good to go.
With Razer’s updated model comes a better build quality and few handy extras. It still keeps a simple, subdued look with a built in shock absorber. But you get a USB-C connection over a micro USB and a tap-to-mute button this time around. The button is even multifunctional, allowing it to be used for volume control instead. Sound adjustments can be further customized using Razer’s Synapse software. However, the out of the box performance is pretty great.
The Seiren Mini V3 manages a solid frequency response range and bit rate, keeping its sonic quality on par with higher-end microphones. It features a 14mm condenser tuned to a supercardioid pickup pattern, focusing on sounds at the front of the microphone, and that’s usually all you need for streaming. So, expect your vocals to come out crisp and clear with minimal background noise.
10. PowerDeWise Lavalier Microphone
Best Wearable Microphone for Streaming
Is there really any advantage to using a small microphone over the one on your laptop or phone? We certainly think so. If you’re a content creator using short-form video platforms like TikTok and Reels, you’ll quickly find out that a smartphone picks up too much outside noise, or if you’re too far away, you can’t be heard. A wearable unit fixes this problem. The PowerDeWise Professional Grade Lavalier Lapel Microphone is a super cheap, compact option that’ll up your audio game. This mic clips directly on your clothes — think news anchor vibes — and plugs in directly to your device.
The PowerDeWise Professional Grade Lavalier Lapel Microphone offers a plenty long 13-foot aux cord with a 3.5mm jack. It should easily plug into most laptops and phones, but you’ll need a separate adapter for the best iPhones. Once you plug in, you should be good to go. There are no features or adjustments you can make to it like you can with the other options on our list, but it’s simple to use and will, without a doubt, make your voice sound better than whatever your device can record on its own.
Where to Get the Best Microphone for Streaming and Podcasting in the UK
Reaching a worldwide audience from the comfort of your home is just as easy in the UK as it is in the US. We've managed to find a great selection of microphones from our list that are also available to pick up on the other side of the pond, the vast majority in fact. Don't see the microphones below? Click here.
How to Choose a Microphone for Streaming and Podcasting
There is such a wide array of microphones available. It’s easy to get carried away or totally lost on the quest for a perfect recording. So, we’ve narrowed down what to look for in a microphone to find the best one to suit your needs.
First off, polar patterns are important to make note of. Cardioid is going to be essential if you’re using this microphone in any streaming or podcasting capacity. It focuses on sounds from the front and sides, ignoring the rear. But, say you also want to use it for one-on-one interviews or a group conference call, a microphone that offer bidirectional or omnidirectional patterns are much better suited. Microphones like the Blue Yeti X and HyperX Quadcast S conveniently offer multiple polar patterns that you can easily switch between.
Another important factor to keep in mind is the type of microphone you purchase: condenser or dynamic. The majority of our picks are condenser mics, and that means the mic is better at picking up a more crisp, detailed sound. That also makes them a bit more sensitive and prone to record unwanted sounds. Condenser mics can also offer multiple polar patterns, which a dynamic does not.
Dynamic mics, however, are more durable and can handle higher sound volumes without distortion. Plus, with a cardioid pattern, dynamic mics are ideal for podcasting because they are better at eliminating background noise to focus just on your voice. These are the type of microphones you’ll usually find in a recording studio. But, either microphone type should work great if you’re just looking to use it for streaming.
Now, the output of a microphone might not be something you’ve given much thought to, but it’s essential to make note of the differences. Most of the mics on our list are USB microphones, which means you won’t need an audio interface for use. You can simply plug it in and get recording. You will sacrifice the ability to change components or use it with a mixing board though.
An XLR output is a bit trickier to use as you need an additional audio interface to plug in to. But say you want to look into special effects, like a compressor, equalizer, or noise gate to make your stream sound even better, an XLR option makes that upgrade easier.
Of course, you can't forget the price, and luckily, there are plenty of great mics from high-end to budget. If you're after more polar patterns and higher resolution, it'll add to the price. You also need to consider the extra cost of an audio interface with XLR microphones.
Streaming Microphone FAQ
Do You Need a Good Microphone to Stream?
The short answer is no. You can stream on Twitch or YouTube with nothing but your laptop speakers if you want to. Microphones are a great way to stand out, however. Having excellent sound quality is a good way to appear like a professional streamer, bringing more potential to gain an audience.
What Type of Mic Is Best for Streaming?
Both condenser and dynamic mics can work great for streaming. The one you choose depends on your environment and preferences.
Condenser mics are prone to picking up more unwanted noise, be it a gaming keyboard, fan, or air conditioner. However, they deliver a more crisp, detailed sound and are more forgiving if you’re moving around a lot. That means you won’t need to worry as much about maintaining the same position during a stream. Condenser mics also struggle more with louder, more explosive sounds, though pop filters can help combat that issue.
Dynamic mics are better at isolating environmental sounds and handling louder noises without distortion but require you to be right in front of the microphone for the best performance. Any time you change the direction or distance from which you’re speaking, you’ll usually be able to hear the difference in sound. That poses an issue for those who move around as they stream.
What is the Best Polar Pattern for Streaming?
Though it’s handy to have a microphone with various polar patterns, cardioid is what you’ll need for streaming. Luckily, all of our picks offer this polar pattern, as it’s the most common of the bunch. A cardioid pattern focuses on the sound directly in front of the microphone, helping eliminate unwanted environmental noise around the back and sides of your mic. That also means its best for solo users.
Danielle Abraham is a freelance writer and unpaid music historian.