There are certain things any streamer needs to make sure to own before getting started. One of these is, of course, a good microphone.
If you are just getting started, you might be shocked by the price on some of the higher-end microphones for streaming. However, getting a decent microphone does not necessarily mean you will have to max out your credit card.
There are some excellent budget microphone choices well below the $100 mark. And although a number of them lack some of the features of their higher-end counterparts, the best budget microphones for streaming make up for it by sounding just as good as them.
What Makes a Good Microphone?
When choosing a new microphone the first thing you will always look for is sound quality. After all, you want a microphone that makes your voice sound good and clear.
The second factor you’ll want to go over is adaptability. A good microphone should offer a bit of versatility and perform well under at least a couple of different scenarios. While as a streamer you won’t need your mic for recording outside, a good mic should sound just as well when you place it on one or the other side of your desk.
The final factor you want to consider is looks. While looks doesn’t really affect a microphone’s performance, as a streamer, you will want to aim for a mic that looks good on camera.
The Best Budget Microphones for Streaming
1. Blue Snowball: $55.30
Polar patterns: Omnidirectional; Cardioid | Output: USB | Frequency Response: 40Hz-18kHz | Recording Sample Rate: 48kHz | Features: Tripod stand
This mic offers a solid recording quality coupled with a stylish retro look that you won’t want to hide away from the camera. It allows you to change between omnidirectional and cardioid polar pattern and choose what suits you best.
The Blue Snowball setup process is quick and simple, you just need to connect it through an USB port and you are good to go. Its tripod stand also allows you to adjust the mic’s height to the optimal position.
+ You can choose between omnidirectional or cardioid polar patterns.
+ USB output and quick and easy setup.
– No mute button.
2. Blue Yeti Nano: $89.99
Polar patterns: Cardioid; Omnidirectional | Output: USB | Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz | Recording Sample Rate: 48kHz | Features: Zero-latency monitoring, mute and headphone controls
As its name implies, this is the smaller version of the classic Blue Yeti. Its great sound quality is comparable to that of its full size version, while its small size and hardy metal built means it is easy and safe to carry along.
The Blue Yeti Nano is very easy to setup and use, you just need to connect it through an USB port. Aside from its recording quality this microphone features zero-latency monitoring, mute, and headphone controls.
+ Small, lightweight, and sturdy
+ Easy to use
+ Great sound quality
3. Razer Seiren Mini: $49.99
Polar patterns: Supercardioid | Output: USB | Frequency Response: 20Hz-20,000Hz | Recording Sample Rate: 48kHz | Features:
You will just love how this little thing looks on your desktop. It comes in a lovely pill-shaped design and a variety of colors to choose from.
When it comes to features, well, the Razer Seiren Mini gives up on pretty much everything in favor of amazing sound quality and stylish looks. However, given its price, almost no one cares since they’re still getting a high-quality mic for $50.
+ Lovely pill-shaped design
+ Great sound quality
– No mute button
4. HyperX SoloCast: $59.99
Polar patterns: Unidirectional cardioid | Output: USB | Frequency Response: 20Hz-20,000Hz | Recording Sample Rate: 48kHz | Features: Tap-to-mute sensor
This is probably the best cheap condenser microphone on the market. The HyperX SoloCast is a budget mic that sounds just as good as any other doubling its price.
This microphone’s sound quality is fantastic for its price, and really makes up for not having the features of other HyperX mics. Its sound quality is actually comparable to that of the QuadCast S.
+ Incredible sound quality
+ Great price
+ Portable design
– Limited features
Conclusion
These are just some of the best budget microphones for streaming. As we said even though some of them do lack some features they more than make up for it with an outstanding sound quality. Plus, their price below the $100 mark comes in handy for those looking to venture into streaming.
