11 Best YouTube Microphones

Reading Time: 14 minutes

Have you ever been annoyed by the less-than-stellar audio quality in your YouTube videos? It’s a familiar struggle for creators aiming to leave a mark in the digital space.

The culprit? Often, it comes down to the microphone you’re using.

Given the multitude of choices available, you might be wondering, “Which microphone is the best for YouTube?”

Fear not, fellow content creators!

In this blog post, I’m sharing insights into my recent journey of purchasing a microphone, and we’re going to delve into the quest for the Best YouTube Microphone to step up your audio game.

What are some of our top choices?

To discover the reasons behind our selection of these microphones, continue reading

In the upcoming sections, we’ll dissect each microphone’s key features, benefits, and drawbacks, ensuring you can make an informed decision.

Let’s explore the best options and find the perfect fit for your unique style and content.

No more settling for audio that leaves your viewers straining to hear.

We’ve done the research, sifted through options, and narrowed down the top contenders.

Whether you’re on a budget or looking for something more advanced, there’s a microphone tailored just for you.

Bid farewell to muffled sounds and say hello to crystal-clear recordings that grab your audience’s attention.

Let’s get started!

Navigating the Maze: My Quest for the Perfect Microphone

Not too long ago, I found myself in a situation where I needed to purchase a microphone. Little did I know that this seemingly straightforward task would unveil a world of complexities and considerations I hadn’t anticipated. The sheer variety of microphones available on the market left me feeling overwhelmed and, quite frankly, clueless.

Unbeknownst to me, microphones come in different types, each tailored to specific needs and applications. This revelation was a game-changer. I soon discovered that understanding these distinctions is crucial when making a sound choice (pun intended) for your recording needs.

The abundance of factors to consider—types of microphones, polar patterns, connectivity options, and more—made my head spin. Then, I realized the importance of demystifying this seemingly intricate world. I created this article to spare you from the confusion I experienced.

Consider this your go-to guide, a beacon in the world of microphone options.

Whether you’re a seasoned content creator or just starting, this article aims to simplify the process and equip you with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision.

From dynamic to condenser, USB to XLR, we’ll break down the essentials, ensuring you’re well-prepared to choose the perfect microphone for your unique needs.

So, let’s dive in together, unravel the microphone mysteries, and turn your quest for the ideal recording companion into a breeze.

Key Factors to Keep in Mind When Choosing the Best Microphone for YouTube

Choosing the optimal microphone for your YouTube videos varies from creator to creator due to the distinct audio-capturing capabilities of each type of mic. It’s crucial to consider multiple factors when selecting your equipment.

Several key factors that will impact the choice of the best microphones for recording YouTube content on your channel include:

Type of Content

Planning the nature of your content is an important factor when determining the best microphone for YouTube videos.

Are there background elements such as music or ambient noise? Will multiple individuals be speaking simultaneously? Do you need to record voice-over audio?

Answers to these questions guide the selection of a microphone that suits your content’s requirements, ensuring high-quality audio recording.

Location

Similar to content type, the shooting location significantly influences the ideal microphones for YouTube videos.

Are you filming in a studio, on the go, indoors, or outdoors?

Each location factor points to different microphone types as the optimal choice.

Microphone Budget

Balancing the desire to produce top-notch content with cost considerations is crucial for creators aiming to maximize potential revenue. Your budget plays a pivotal role in selecting the best microphone for YouTube. Generally, higher price points correlate with better quality.

For budget-conscious creators, it’s essential to identify microphones that offer high-quality audio recording within budget constraints.

YouTube Microphone Polar Patterns

Understanding the microphone’s functionalities is vital in determining the best microphones for recording YouTube videos.

Features such as omnidirectional vs. unidirectional and cardioid vs. super-cardioid are pivotal considerations at various price points. These features dictate how the microphone captures sound and can significantly impact the quality of your audio recording.

Additional Considerations

Other creator tools like voice-over apps can enhance content creation by choosing the right microphone for your YouTube videos.

Many creators leverage powerful AI voice generator tools to streamline voice-over recording, eliminating the need for live voice actors or addressing sound issues like noise pollution.

Opting for different text-to-speech voices on these tools ensures a perfect voice-over recording without multiple takes.

As we delve deeper into this guide, we’ll explore specific microphone options, allowing you to decide based on your unique content creation needs.

Stay tuned for insights that will elevate the audio quality of your YouTube videos.

Types of YouTube Microphones

Before delving into our recommendations for the best microphones for YouTube content creation, let’s explore the various types of microphones available. There are three primary classes: dynamic, condenser, and ribbon microphones.

Dynamic Microphones

Think about the last concert or live performance you attended. The chances are high that the singer used a dynamic microphone. These mics excel at capturing louder sounds and eliminating background noise due to their sturdy coil and magnets.

Dynamic microphones are your go-to for minimizing distractions if you’re recording in noisy environments, like public performances, street interviews, or bustling areas.

Condenser Microphones

In contrast to dynamic microphones, condenser microphones utilize capacitor plates, making them more sensitive to smaller vibrations.

This sensitivity allows condenser microphones to capture clear, nuanced sound—ideal for podcasting, voiceovers, vlogs, or recording vocals in a booth.

Ribbon Microphones

Consider ribbon microphones as the VIPs of the microphone world.

Ribbon microphones are less common than dynamic and condenser mics and boast superior quality and versatility.

They’re suitable for recording various instruments and even room ambiance. The bidirectional nature of ribbon mics, capturing sound from the front and back while rejecting sounds from other directions, adds warmth to recordings, providing a natural sound.

Additional Microphone Varieties

• USB Microphones: Ideal for beginners, USB microphones are affordable, convenient, and easy to use. They connect universally to different devices and are plug-and-play, requiring no additional setup.
• XLR Microphones: Analog and commonly used by podcasters, interviewers, singers, and radio stations, XLR microphones offer lower noise and superior sound quality compared to USB counterparts. However, they require an audio interface to connect to a computer.
• Shotgun Microphones: As a type of condenser microphone, shotgun mics are excellent for recording people on camera, especially when attached to a DSLR. Versatile and available in different polar patterns, proper positioning is crucial for optimal sound capture.
• Lavalier Microphones: Small and discreet, lavalier microphones offer high-quality audio without positioning concerns. With an omnidirectional polar pattern, they pick up sounds from any direction, making them suitable for interviews, documentaries, and live broadcasts where visibility in the shot is not an issue.

Understanding each microphone type will enable you to choose the one that fits your specific YouTube content creation needs.

11 Best Microphones for YouTube

And now, the moment you’ve eagerly anticipated has arrived. Here’s the segment you’ve been waiting for.

Below, we present the finest microphones tailored for YouTube, carefully chosen to align with the specific nature of the content you produce.

Whether you’re into vlogging, podcasting, or musical performances, we’ve got the perfect microphone recommendations to elevate your audio game and make your content shine. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the top microphone choices for your unique YouTube endeavors.

Top Microphones for Recording YouTube Videos Inside

Certain microphones excel in studio recording environments, while others offer features more tailored for on-the-go recording.

Here are our recommended microphones for capturing YouTube videos inside.

Shure SM7B

Ideal for studio recording, this microphone boasts internal features that shield it from interference, making it a standout choice among YouTubers, particularly for vlogs or interview-based podcasts. The cardioid XLR microphone offers a broad frequency range, ensuring exceptional audio production for music and speech.

With a pre-installed pop filter and a detachable windscreen (A7WS), it effectively minimizes fricatives and plosives, allowing you to speak freely without worrying about proximity to the recording capsule.

Notably, the Shure SM7B goes the extra mile by auto-correcting itself to deliver optimal audio quality. This means you can move around the room, and the microphone will make subtle adjustments to maintain sound consistency.

While it may come with a slightly higher price tag, the built-in features of this microphone successfully eliminate both background noise and electrical noise transmission, making it a worthwhile investment for those prioritizing top-notch audio recording.

Blue Yeti X

The Blue Yeti X records audio at 24-bit/48kHz, making it advantageous for extensive post-production tasks with expanded editing options.

It includes a convenient mute button, ideal for streaming podcasts or other content.

With its USB connection, this microphone facilitates easy connectivity to various devices, eliminating the need for additional complementary equipment like an audio interface.

The Blue Yeti X also offers versatility in recording with four modes: Omni, cardioid, stereo, and bi-directional. These features collectively make it an excellent and adaptable choice for YouTubers across different skill levels.

HyperX QuadCast

For those YouTubing from the comfort of home, the HyperX QuadCast is an aesthetically pleasing and stationary addition to your setup.

As a USB condenser microphone, it provides three pickup patterns—cardioid, hyper-cardioid, and bidirectional. Tailored for gamers, streamers, and podcasters, this mic ensures clear and rich audio quality for your Twitch and YouTube videos.

As a true condenser microphone, the QuadCast exhibits high sensitivity to sounds, particularly from the mic’s back and front. However, it features a pop filter that effectively disperses pressure spikes accompanying plosive sounds.

The built-in anti-vibration shock mount shields audio from disturbances like banging, rattling, or shifting noises, common during gameplay or video streaming.

Compatible with PlayStation, PC, and MacOS, this microphone is user-friendly, operating as seamlessly as any other USB microphone on the market.

Rode NT-USB Microphone

Great for voiceover, podcasting, and music

If you’re looking for an excellent option in studio recording, the Rode NT-USB emerges as a stellar choice. Its USB functionality brings convenience to the forefront, allowing you to seamlessly plug directly into your computer, eliminating the need for intricate setups before diving into recording.

But the perks don’t end there. The Rode NT-USB boasts a built-in headphone jack, providing effortless monitoring during recording and enabling precise playback listening during post-production. This feature ensures you have optimal control over your audio quality from start to finish.

This cardioid condenser microphone goes the extra mile by incorporating volume control and a mix control dial. These elements allow you to fine-tune your recording settings, allowing for a customized and refined studio recording experience.

The Rode NT-USB isn’t just a microphone; it’s a comprehensive tool designed to elevate your studio recording endeavors. From its user-friendly USB connectivity to the nuanced controls, this microphone is poised to be your reliable companion in pursuing top-notch audio production.

Top Picks for Recording YouTube Videos On the Move

Exploring microphones crafted specifically for such scenarios is essential if you record some or all of your YouTube video recordings while on the move.

Discover the leading choices for on-the-go recording:

Rode VideoMic Go II

The Rode VideoMic GO II stands as a portable shotgun microphone crafted to facilitate high-quality audio recording on the move. Ideal for vloggers capturing their day-to-day experiences, this microphone proves to be a valuable asset.

Featuring a super-cardioid polar pattern, the mic excels in sensitivity to on-axis sounds (in the direction it points) while effectively minimizing sounds from the sides.

Additionally, an integrated shock mount absorbs vibrations, granting you enhanced control over your recordings.

Conveniently mounting onto a boom pole or DSLR for instant recording, the Rode VideoMic GO II has a 3.5mm input, simplifying connections to other cameras and mobile devices.

Whether documenting your adventures or conducting on-the-go interviews, this microphone is a versatile companion for your recording needs.

Rode VideoMic Shotgun

Crafted for maximum portability, the Rode VideoMic Pro stands out as a shotgun microphone with a lightweight and compact design.

Featuring a 3.5mm input, it seamlessly integrates with various cameras and mobile devices, ensuring versatility in your recording setup.

Its enhanced portability sets this microphone apart, thanks to a compact shock mount that provides better control over your recordings and contributes to superior overall audio quality.

Delving into gain control, the Rode VideoMic Pro offers settings of -10dB, 0dB, and +20 dB. This means you can adjust the microphone’s sensitivity to suit different recording scenarios, ensuring optimal audio capture in various environments.

Whether documenting your adventures or conducting on-the-spot interviews, the Rode VideoMic Pro is engineered to be your trusty companion, delivering both convenience and top-notch audio performance.

Rode SmartLav+

The Rode SmartLav+ stands as a portable lavalier microphone, offering a broad frequency response from 20Hz to 20kHz, covering the entire range of the human ear for a deep and rich audio experience.

Equipped with an omnidirectional condenser capsule, this microphone captures sound from all directions, making it ideal for outdoor recordings.

It features a Kevlar-reinforced cable and a pop filter that absorbs vibrations, ensuring clear and crisp speech. However, note that the cable is 1.2m long, requiring proximity to the recording device.

With a 3.5mm jack, the Rode SmartLav+ is compatible with Android and iOS devices, facilitating easy setup. It also seamlessly integrates with any audio recording app utilizing the headphone jack, including the Rode Reporter app.

Whether you’re a YouTube beginner or an experienced content creator, the Rode SmartLav+ is an excellent choice for capturing high-quality audio in various recording scenarios.

Samson Go Mic

The Samson Go Mic, known for its compact design, opens up the realm of high-quality audio recording on the move with its ability to record at 16-bit/44.1kHz resolution.

Versatility is at your fingertips as you can adjust the recording modes, choosing between cardioid or omnidirectional pickup patterns to suit your recording needs.

Designed with portability in mind, this lightweight microphone is easy to transport, making it a convenient companion for content creators on the move.

The USB connectivity further enhances its versatility, allowing seamless integration with various devices for your recording convenience.

Not just about convenience, the Samson Go Mic incorporates a shock-absorbent pad that minimizes vibrations, safeguarding your audio quality from potential harm.

Elevate your on-the-go recording experience with the best-in-class Samson Go Mic, ensuring top-notch audio quality wherever your creative journey takes you.

Best Microphones for Beginner YouTubers

Are you just dipping your toes into YouTube content creation?

In the beginning stages, there’s no need for high-end, costly equipment. Remember, you can upgrade your microphone later and repurpose your old one to record guests or tackle technical glitches.

Here are our recommendations for novice YouTube content creators.

HyperX SoloCast

Ranked among the top microphones for YouTube gaming, the HyperX SoloCast stands out as an excellent choice for content creators of various genres.

Whether you’re conducting interviews, immersed in gaming sessions, or delving into voiceover work, the SoloCast proves its versatility.

Operating as a condenser microphone with a cardioid polar pattern, it exhibits exceptional sensitivity to sounds directly in front of it—making it the perfect companion for gamers, podcasters, and voiceover artists.

Despite its affordability, this microphone has a flexible and adjustable stand, contributing to an enhanced audio experience. Noteworthy features include a convenient tap-to-mute capability and the utilization of a cardioid polar pattern for recording. The HyperX SoloCast easily connects through a USB input, ensuring compatibility with Mac and Windows operating systems.

Shure MV5C

Perfect for those starting their YouTube journey, the Shure MV5C offers a hassle-free experience with USB connectivity—plug in and start recording. This user-friendly mic is compatible with both Windows and Mac systems, and it even seamlessly connects to iOS devices like the iPhone.

With a frequency range from 20Hz to 20kHz and recording quality set at 16 – 24-bit and 44.1 – 48kHz, the Shure MV5C ensures crystal-clear audio capture for your content.

Its lightweight and portable design makes it versatile for studio and on-the-go recording, allowing you to switch between different recording environments effortlessly.

Upgrade your recording setup with this reliable USB mic designed to cater to the needs of new YouTubers.

Audio-Technica AT2020

Ideal for YouTube beginners, the Audio-Technica AT2020 strikes a balance between affordability and exceptional quality.

As a cardioid microphone, it ensures efficient sound capture with a frequency response ranging from 20Hz to 20kHz, utilizing a permanently polarized condenser for top-notch performance.

What makes this microphone even more versatile is its compatibility with various mic stands, allowing you to seamlessly integrate it with additional studio equipment to enhance your overall audio quality.

Elevate your content creation experience without breaking the bank with the Audio-Technica AT2020, a reliable choice for those stepping into the world of YouTube.

Exploring Microphone Options: Beyond Brands

After delving into various microphone options from renowned brands, it’s essential to consider specific features that align with the needs of your YouTube channel. The success of your content greatly hinges on the quality of your audio, and choosing the right microphone features can play a pivotal role in achieving optimal sound.

1. YouTube Channel Requirements:
   • Content Style: Consider the nature of your YouTube channel. Are you creating vlogs, tutorials, gaming content, or interviews? Different content styles may benefit from specific microphone features. For example, vloggers might prioritize portability, while gamers may lean towards microphones with directional pickup patterns to capture their commentary clearly.
   • Recording Environment: Assess your primary recording environment. A compact and portable microphone may be essential if you’re frequently on the move. Microphones with advanced features like shock mounts and directional controls can enhance the recording experience for those with dedicated studio spaces.
2. Microphone Features to Look For:
   • Pickup Patterns: Understand the various pickup patterns, such as cardioid, omnidirectional, and super-cardioid. The right pattern depends on whether you’re recording solo or with multiple participants and the ambient noise in your recording space.
   • Connectivity: Consider the connectivity options. USB microphones offer simplicity, while XLR microphones are favored for their compatibility with professional audio interfaces. Choose based on your current setup and potential for future expansions.
   • Frequency Response: The frequency response of a microphone influences the range of audio frequencies it can capture. Ensure the microphone’s response aligns with the tonal qualities you want to emphasize in your content.
3. Prioritizing Quality:
   • Audio Resolution: Look for microphones that offer high-bit depth and sampling rates. Higher resolution allows for more detailed and nuanced audio recordings, enhancing the overall quality of your content.
   • Durability: Consider the build quality and durability of the microphone. This is especially crucial if you’re frequently on the move or using the microphone in dynamic settings.
   • User Reviews: Explore user reviews and testimonials to gain insights into real-world experiences with the microphone models you’re considering. Pay attention to feedback regarding durability, ease of use, and overall satisfaction.

By evaluating your YouTube channel’s specific requirements, understanding essential microphone features, and prioritizing audio quality, you can make an informed decision that aligns perfectly with your content creation goals.

Remember, the right microphone is not just a tool; it’s an investment in the professional and engaging audio experience your audience deserves.

For more information, check out this YouTube video.

Final Thoughts

Embarking on your YouTube journey is an exciting venture, and choosing the right microphone is crucial for standout content.

This guide explored various YouTube quality microphone options catering to diverse needs, skill levels, and recording environments.

The best microphone hinges on your needs, preferences, and recording environment.

Consider your budget, recording location, and content type. Whether a beginner or experienced creator, the right microphone is a valuable tool for enhancing overall YouTube video quality.

Choose wisely, experiment with options, and let your creativity shine through impeccable audio quality.

Frequently Asked Questions