Top rated Microphones
Here's a ranking of the top rated products in this category. To give you a quick overview, we've also added some key information about the products.
1. HyperX QuadCast S
The HyperX QuadCast is the perfect standalone microphone for ambitious streamers and podcasters who are looking for a condenser microphone with top sound. The QuadCast has its own vibration and shock resistant mount to protect against annoying background noise. The integrated pop protection prevents unwanted pop sounds. The LED shows the microphone status at a glance. To avoid unpleasant disturbances during transmission, the microphone can be muted by simply tapping it. With a choice of four directional patterns, the microphone is ready for almost any recording situation and also offers a practical volume control for quickly changing the microphone input volume. The dedicated mounting adapter fits both 3/8" and 5/8" sizes and is compatible with most mounts. The QuadCast S model offers RGB lighting and the dynamic effects can be adjusted using the HyperX NGENUITY software.
The QuadCast family is Discord and TeamSpeak qualified, ensuring that the microphone sounds clear and crisp and can be easily controlled via the convenient headphone jack on the back of the microphone. Its compatibility with PC, PS4 and Mac and all major streaming platforms such as Streamlabs OBS, OBS Studio and XSplit ensures that you can offer high-quality sound to everyone.
2. HyperX QuadCast
The HyperX Quadcast is a standalone microphone designed to meet the demanding requirements of PC, PlayStation 4 and Mac professional or aspiring streamers. The QuadCast features a vibration-damping mount, easily accessible gain control, four selectable polar patterns, and a tap-to-mute function with convenient LED illumination to indicate transmit status. With crystal clear voice recording, Quadcast Streamer connects with its viewers like never before.
3. RØDE NT-USB Mini
The NT-USB Mini brings the pristine sound quality of RØDE's world-class studio mics to a compact, easy-to-use desktop USB microphone. Designed to deliver crystal-clear, professional-sounding audio directly to a computer or tablet, it's the perfect microphone for gamers, podcasters, musicians, streamers, business professionals, and content creators who want to be heard in full definition.
The NT-USB Mini features a studio-grade headphone amplifier and a high-quality 3.5mm headphone output, complete with precision volume control, allowing you to easily monitor your audio. There is also a switchable zero-latency monitoring mode for eliminating distracting echo when tracking vocals or recording instruments. It is incredibly easy to set up and use, with simple controls, an in-built pop filter, and a class-compliant USB output that works seamlessly with computers or tablets, no drivers or software needed. Just plug into your Mac, PC, or tablet with the included USB cable and hit record.
The NT-USB Mini features a unique detachable magnetic desk stand - not only does this provide a sturdy base on any desktop, but it also makes it easy to remove and attach to a mic stand or studio arm. This, along with the unique 360-degree swing mount, means you can position the mic wherever it needs to be to get the best recording.
The NT-USB Mini is the perfect addition to any desktop or home studio setup. At just 89mm wide and 141mm tall, it's very compact, taking up only a fraction of precious desktop real estate. It also looks fantastic - sleek and stylish, with clean lines and a modern aesthetic. Hard-wearing steel and reinforced nylon resin construction ensure the NT-USB Mini is ready to take on the rigors of recording anywhere and everywhere.
4. RØDE NT-USB Mini set of 4 with Colors colour tags
The NT-USB Mini 4-pack with Colors color tags is a high-quality studio microphone that is ideal for live applications and podcasting. With its compact design and USB power supply, it offers a user-friendly solution for creative projects. Each microphone in the set is equipped with a volume control, allowing for precise adjustment of the audio output. The condenser technology ensures excellent sound quality, while the frequency range of 20 to 20,000 Hz covers a wide array of audio frequencies. The included color-coded clips and caps facilitate easy identification and organization of the microphones, which is particularly beneficial in professional environments. This set is not only functional but also practical for anyone who values clear and precise audio recording.
- Condenser microphone for high-quality audio recordings
- Includes 8 color-coded USB-C clips for easy identification
- Volume control for precise audio adjustment
- Package includes 4 microphones for versatile applications.
5. RØDE NT-USB mini microphone with PSA1+ articulated boom stand
The NT-USB Mini microphone with PSA1+ articulated arm stand is a high-quality solution for anyone involved in podcasting or streaming. This studio microphone offers excellent sound quality and is ideal for use in various environments, whether in the office or live settings. With its USB power supply, it is easy to use and allows for quick setup. The omnidirectional pickup pattern ensures that sound is captured from all directions, making it a flexible choice for different applications. The microphone comes with a sturdy articulated arm stand that allows for precise positioning, thereby enhancing usability. The combination of modern design and practical features makes this microphone an excellent choice for creative projects.
- Condenser transducer principle for high sound quality
- USB power supply for easy use
- Omnidirectional pickup pattern for versatile applications
- Includes PSA1+ articulated arm stand for optimal positioning.
6. RØDE NT-USB Mini with NTH-100 headphones with cloth
The NT-USB Mini studio microphone, combined with the NTH-100 headphones, offers a comprehensive solution for high-quality audio recording and playback. This microphone is ideal for various applications, including home studio productions, podcasting, karaoke, as well as interviews and presentations. It is powered via USB, allowing for easy and flexible use. With a frequency range of 20 to 20,000 Hz, the microphone delivers clear and precise sounds, while the NTH-100 headphones ensure a comfortable fit and excellent sound quality. The set also includes useful accessories such as a desktop stand, a USB-C to USB-A cable, a detachable connection cable, a screw adapter, and a microfiber cloth to keep the devices clean. This combination is particularly suitable for creative individuals who value quality and user-friendliness.
- USB power supply for easy use
- Wired signal transmission for a stable connection
- Includes desktop stand and detachable connection cables
- Frequency range of 20 - 20,000 Hz for clear audio quality
- Comfortable NTH-100 headphones for excellent sound reproduction.
7. RØDE NT-USB MINI USB microphone with NB35 BK articulated boom arm
The NT-USB Mini is a compact desktop microphone that is ideal for various applications such as karaoke, home studio productions, and podcasting. With a robust design and practical dimensions of 43.9 mm in length, 108.1 mm in height, and 54.5 mm in width, it can be easily used in different environments. The microphone utilizes a condenser transducer principle and offers a cardioid polar pattern, allowing for targeted sound capture while minimizing background noise. It is conveniently powered via USB, ensuring easy integration into existing setups. The included NB35 BK swivel arm allows for flexible positioning of the microphone, enabling users to find the optimal recording position. This microphone is an excellent choice for anyone who values high audio quality while seeking a user-friendly solution.
8. RØDE NT-USB Mini with K&M microphone boom with cloth
The Rode NT-USB Mini is a compact desktop microphone that is ideal for a variety of applications, including vocals, instruments, streaming, podcasts, and gaming. With its sleek, matte black steel housing and integrated pop filter, it not only offers an appealing look but also excellent sound quality. The microphone features a 24-bit/48kHz audio interface and allows for easy plug-and-play use via USB-C, with no drivers required. The built-in headphone output with volume control and switchable direct monitoring provides latency-free listening to the microphone signal. The included K&M microphone arm allows for flexible positioning, while the detachable magnetic desk mount makes it easy to attach to microphone stands or boom arms. The NT-USB Mini is therefore a versatile solution for anyone who values quality and user-friendliness.
- Integrated 24-bit/48kHz audio interface for high sound quality
- Plug-and-play functionality without driver installation
- Swiveling steel housing for optimal positioning
- Integrated pop filter to reduce unwanted noise
- Headphone output with volume control for latency-free monitoring.
9. RØDE smartLav+
The smartLav+ lapel microphone meets broadcast standards and is suitable for film, television, and similar applications, as well as for other areas that require a discreet recording system capable of capturing multiple people convincingly. The smartLav+ can be attached like a traditional lapel microphone and connected to a smartphone. For recording, RODE recommends the “RØDE Rec” app for iOS devices. With its omnidirectional pickup pattern, the smartLav+ delivers professional results even if it shifts during use. A windscreen to reduce wind noise and plosive sounds, as well as a sturdy clip with cable management, are included. The Kevlar-reinforced cable prevents damage that can occur from pinching or bending the cable. The smartLav+ can be used with any audio app that can record signals from the headphone jack. However, for maximum convenience, RODE recommends the “RØDE Rec” app for Apple iOS devices. “RØDE Rec” turns an iOS device into a versatile field recorder, offering numerous sound control settings, professional editing features, and the ability to publish directly.
10. RØDE VideoMicro
The VideoMicro by Rode is a compact condenser microphone designed for use with cameras. It requires no batteries and connects easily via the SC2 connection cable. Its compact and lightweight design, along with the simple attachment using the integrated standard hot shoe adapter, ensures user-friendly handling. The microphone features a cardioid pickup pattern, capturing sound from the front while minimizing unwanted background noise. It is excellent for recording live concerts and performances of all kinds. The Rycote Lyre shock mount provides effective decoupling from handling noise, ensuring clear audio recordings. For outdoor recordings, the sound quality can be further enhanced with the optional Deluxe Fur Windshield WS9.
