Content creators strive to engage their audiences with high-quality audiovisual experiences, making the role of a good microphone for streaming a top priority.
In fact, Statista shows that the revenue in over-the-top (OTT) video streaming is projected to increase continuously from the year 2024 onwards, reaching a total of 113 billion U.S. dollars by 2024. This is once good reason why content creators should take streaming seriously and produce high quality videos with superb audio when trying to capture the attention of their audiences.
No matter if you're into gaming, music, vlogging, or professional broadcasting, the microphone you pick can make a big difference in how clear and engaging your live streams sound.
In this article, we will explore the best microphone for streaming in 2024. Let's check out these top-notch USB/XLR mics and see how they earned their reviews for great audio quality, compatibility, durability, and overall value for live streaming.
If you'd like to learn more about the factors to consider before buying a microphone for streaming, you might want to read more details here:
14 Things to Consider Before Buying a Gaming Microphone
Top 4 Best Streaming Microphones USB/XLR in 2024
1. Audio-Technica AT2020
Type: Condenser
Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Connectivity: XLR
Output Impedance: 100 ohms
Sensitivity: -37 dB
Pros: Affordable, durable build, versatile use
Cons: Requires an audio interface, no built-in controls
Price: Approx. $99
Notable Features: High SPL handling, low self-noise
A popular choice for home studios, the AT2020 is a cardioid condenser microphone known for its clear, natural sound and versatility in recording vocals and instruments.
2. Blue Yeti
Type: Condenser
Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
Polar Patterns: Cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, stereo
Connectivity: USB
Pros: Versatile polar patterns, plug-and-play, built-in controls
Cons: Bulky, some find it picks up too much background noise
Price: Approx. $129
Notable Features: Multiple polar patterns, built-in headphone jack with volume control
Renowned for its ease of use and versatility, the Blue Yeti is a USB condenser microphone offering multiple polar patterns, ideal for podcasting, streaming, and voiceovers with excellent sound quality.
3. Rode NT-USB
Type: Condenser
Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Connectivity: USB
Sensitivity: -32 dB
Pros: Excellent sound quality, built-in pop filter
Cons: Limited polar pattern, slightly higher price
Price: Approx. $169
Notable Features: Zero-latency monitoring, direct mix control
A versatile USB condenser microphone known for its crisp sound and sturdy build, suitable for recording vocals and instruments directly to a computer, making it a favorite among home studio enthusiasts.
4. Shure MV5
Type: Condenser
Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Connectivity: USB
Pros: Compact and portable, easy setup, built-in DSP modes
Cons: Limited polar pattern, basic features
Price: Approx. $99
Notable Features: Three DSP preset modes, iOS compatibility
A compact USB condenser microphone with multiple DSP presets, ideal for podcasting and mobile recording, known for its portability and user-friendly features tailored for various audio applications.
Best Microphones for Game Streaming 2024
Best XLR Microphone for streaming Comparison Table:
The PD200XS and PD100X are top choices for the best XLR microphone for streaming due to their versatility, offering both USB and XLR connectivity. The PD200XS features a cardioid pickup pattern, a sturdy boom arm, real-time monitoring, and user-friendly controls, making it perfect for diverse streaming needs. The PD100X delivers high-quality sound with easy setup, also supporting real-time monitoring and RGB lighting control. Both models are affordable, durable, and compatible with popular software, making them ideal for gamers, streamers, and podcasters.
PD200XS -
SPECIFICATIONS
Polar Patterns: Cardioid Connectivity: Dual USB/XLR
Frequency response: 40Hz-16kHz
REASONS TO BUY:
✅ It comes with a boom arm
✅ Sturdy construction and durable materials, including the boom arm.
✅ Convenient headphone output for real-time monitoring.
✅ One tap click mute, controllable RGB function
✅ Compatible with Maono Link and Maono Arena software
✅ Compatibility with PC and Mac
✅ Perfect for gaming. streaming, recording, podcasting
✅ Affordable: Value for money
REASONS TO AVOID
❌ No noise reduction
❌ Microphone's sensitivity could be improved, for quieter sound sources.
❌Some had difficulties with the shock mount, citing issues with stability.
Price: $84.99
The PD200XS is a USB/XLR dynamic microphone designed for versatile use. It features a cardioid pickup pattern for clear sound capture and minimal background noise. The microphone includes a built-in headphone output for real-time monitoring and adjustable volume control. Its plug-and-play functionality makes it easy to use with both Windows and Mac computers. The package comes with a sturdy boom arm for convenient positioning and a windscreen to reduce unwanted noise. Additionally, the microphone boasts a durable all-metal construction, ensuring longevity and reliability.
PD100X -
SPECIFICATIONS
Polar Patterns: Cardioid Connectivity: Dual USB/XLR
Frequency response: –
REASONS TO BUY:
✅ Versatile: USB-C/XLR cable ready
✅ Delivers clear high-quality sound
✅ Headphone output with volume control
✅ One tap mute, controllable RGB function
✅ Compatible with Maono Link and Maono Arena software
✅ Easy to setup: plug-and-play functionality
✅ Suitable for gaming. streaming, recording, podcasting
✅ Affordable: Value for money
REASONS TO AVOID
❌No noise reduction
❌Limited adjustability for the shock mount
❌Some reported occasional issues with the background noise pickup.
Price: $59.99
Best USB Microphone for Streaming
The DM30RGB and DGM20S are the top choices for the best USB microphone for streaming in 2024 due to their combination of aesthetic and practical features. The DM30RGB offers stylish, customizable RGB lighting, clear sound quality, and an easy plug-and-play setup, making it ideal for gamers and streamers. The DGM20S also features RGB lighting, effective background noise cancellation, and compatibility with both PC and Mac. Both microphones are affordable, easy to install, and include a headphone output for real-time monitoring, ensuring high-quality audio for gaming, streaming, and podcasting.
DM30RGB -
SPECIFICATIONS
Polar Patterns: Cardioid Connectivity: USB/USB-C
Frequency response: 24bit/48kHz
REASONS TO BUY:
✅ Eye-catching, stylish RGB controllable lights
✅ USB cable ready
✅ Clear and focused sound quality
✅ Easy setup, plug and play, no additional drivers required
✅ Perfect for gaming and streaming
✅ Affordable: Value for money
REASONS TO AVOID
❌ No noise reduction
❌No Blowout Prevention
Price: $49.99
The DM30RGB is a gaming USB microphone designed to enhance streaming and online communication experiences. It features RGB lighting, allowing users to customize the microphone's appearance to match their setup. The microphone utilizes a cardioid pickup pattern for clear and focused sound capture, ideal for gaming and streaming. It offers plug-and-play functionality, making it easy to set up and use without the need for additional drivers. The microphone includes a headphone output with volume control for real-time monitoring. It offers a sturdy and adjustable tripod stand for flexible positioning on desks or other surfaces. Overall, the DM30RGB combines stylish design with practical features tailored for gaming and online content creation.
DGM20S -
SPECIFICATIONS
Polar Patterns: Cardioid Connectivity: USB/USB-C
Frequency response: 50Hz-20kH
REASONS TO BUY:
✅ Appearance and sound quality is good
✅ Easy to install
✅ Aesthetic, controllable RGB lights
✅ Compatibility with PC and Mac
✅ The background noise canceling works pretty good
✅ Perfect for gaming. streaming, recording, podcasting
✅ Affordable: Value for money
REASONS TO AVOID
❌Maono Link software is incompatible
❌Adjustment issue with noise canceling if it's set too high
Price: $59.99
The DGM20S is a condenser USB gaming microphone designed to elevate gaming experiences. It features RGB lighting for a visually dynamic setup. The microphone utilizes a cardioid pickup pattern to capture clear and precise sound, perfect for gaming communication. With plug-and-play functionality, it's easy to set up and use without additional drivers. The microphone includes a headphone output with volume control for real-time monitoring. Additionally, it comes with a sturdy tripod stand for flexible positioning on desks or other surfaces. Overall, the DGM20S combines stylish design with practical features tailored for gaming and online communication.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How to Choose the Best Streaming Microphone
When selecting the best microphone for streaming, consider the following key factors:
1. Connectivity
USB: Ideal for simplicity and ease of use, plug-and-play functionality.
XLR: Offers higher audio quality but requires an audio interface or mixer.
2. Polar Patterns
Cardioid: Captures sound primarily from the front, reducing background noise. Best for solo streaming.
Bidirectional: Picks up sound from the front and back. Useful for interviews.
Omnidirectional: Captures sound equally from all directions. Suitable for group discussions or ambient sounds.
3. Frequency Response
Frequency Response: A broad frequency response ensures high-fidelity audio, capturing the full spectrum of your voice.
Wide Range (20 Hz - 20 kHz): Ensures a full, rich sound capturing all nuances of your voice.
Tailored Response: Some microphones are optimized for voice, emphasizing clarity and presence.
Detailed Guide:
Connectivity: USB mics are user-friendly, while XLR mics offer professional quality but need additional equipment.
Polar Patterns: Choose based on your streaming setup and environment to minimize unwanted noise.
Selecting the right microphone involves balancing these factors to match your specific streaming needs and environment.
Conclusion
Picking the right microphone is key for creators who want top-notch audio for their videos. The best microphones for streaming in 2024 give great sound quality, work well with different devices, last long, and give you good value for your money. They're perfect whether you're gaming, making music, vlogging, or doing serious broadcasting. Newcomers might consider the best affordable microphone for streaming to get started smoothly. Each microphone, like the PD100X, is chosen because its features fit streamers' needs, making sure your live streams are clear and keep your audience hooked.
