Microphones are in demand accessories these days and for all the right reasons. These days, everyone has started creating content and recording themselves. There are many different types of content available, including micro-content and mini blogs, as well as daily life, talent showcases, podcasts, and much more. The quality of the content should come first in order for it to communicate with a larger audience and with lesser barriers. A clear camera with good audio is the foundation for good content that is appreciated by the audience. Therefore, ensure that you have the necessary equipment before you begin vlogging so that the caliber of the content is never compromised. If you are a beginner who¡¯s confused with too many options available in the market - we are here to help you out with the features to consider before buying a microphone to keep you sorted and you buy the microphone as per your needs.
Features to consider before buying a microphone
- Purpose: What will you be using the microphone for? Streaming games, recording podcasts, video calls, or capturing instruments all have different requirements.
- Polar Pattern: Microphones pick up sound from various directions. Understanding polar patterns like omnidirectional, unidirectional, etc. will ensure you capture the desired audio.
- Connectivity: USB microphones offer plug-and-play simplicity, while XLR microphones require an audio interface for connection.
- Budget: Microphones range from affordable options to high-end studio gear. Determine your budget and prioritize features within that range.
- Additional Features: Some microphones come with built-in headphone jacks for monitoring audio, mute buttons, or even RGB lighting. Consider these based on your needs and preferences.
Best microphone picks:
Microphones | Ratings | Special Features |
Rode Videomicro Compact On-Camera Unidirectional Microphone | 4.1 | Lightweight and Compact |
MAONO AU-PM421 Unidirectional Microphone | 4.2 | Stand, Adjustable Arm, LED Indicator |
TONOR USB Microphone, Condenser Computer PC Mic | 4.2 | Gaming, Conference |
Boya ByM1 Auxiliary Omnidirectional Microphone | 4 | Built in microphone |
GRENARO J11 Wireless Mic with Charging Case | 4 | Noise Reduction, Omnidirectional |
FIFINE Gaming USB Microphone | 4.3 | Changing RGB, Tap-to-Mute, Gain Knob, 6.5ft Detachable USB-C Cable. Play and Plug, Desktop Mic |
HUMBLE Dynamic Lapel Collar Mic | 3.2 |
Wireless, Clip
|
Portronics Dash 7 Omnidirectional Microphone | 4.3 | Noise Cancellation, 360¡ã Omnidirectional Microphone, 20M Long Distance Receiver, 2.4GHZ Wireless Transmission |
Rode Videomicro Compact On-Camera Unidirectional Microphone
This microphone from Rode is a super compact and lightweight. The Rode VideoMicro clips onto your camera to improve the sound quality of your videos. It focuses on the sound in front of the camera and reduces background noise. It's made of metal and comes with a shock mount to minimize unwanted noise from handling or cables. It also includes a furry wind shield for outdoor use. You can optionally buy an extra cable to use the microphone with your smartphone.- Connector Type: Plugin
- Microphone form factor: Mini
- Recommended uses: Recording
MAONO AU-PM421 Unidirectional Microphone
This microphone has a professional sound quality with high recording resolution and connects easily to your computer via USB. It focuses on capturing the sound directly in front of it, reducing background noise. It has a built-in mute button with a light to show mute status and a knob to adjust microphone sensitivity for optimal sound. The microphone is made of high-quality materials, including a metal stand and shock mount to minimize unwanted noise. It also comes with a pop filter and windscreen to further improve audio quality. This microphone is easy to use with computers and is perfect for podcasting, streaming, calls, and recording vocals or instruments.- Connector Type: Plugin
- Microphone form factor: ?Condenser
- Recommended uses: Singing, Podcasting, Recording, Gaming
TONOR USB Microphone Condenser PC Mic
The TC30 microphone from TONOR is easy to use by simply plugging it into your computer with the included USB cable; no extra drivers are needed. It focuses on capturing your voice clearly and reducing background noise. This microphone is great for many uses like gaming, podcasting, video calls, and streaming. It also comes with a shock mount to minimize unwanted noise from bumps or vibrations.- Connector Type: USB
- Microphone form factor: ?Condenser
- Recommended uses: Indoor/Outdoor
Boya ByM1 Auxiliary Omnidirectional Microphone
The BOYA BY-M1 is a small microphone that clips on to your clothes and picks up sound from all around it. It can be used with smartphones, cameras, computers, and other recording devices. There's a simple switch to turn it on for cameras or off for smartphones . If you want to use it with an action camera, you'll need a separate adapter.- Connector Type: 3.5 mm Jack, 6.35 mm Jack
- Microphone form factor: ?Lavalier
- Recommended uses: Video Conference
GRENARO J11 Wireless Mic with Charging Case
The Grenaro wireless microphone is beginner friendly and offers adjustable noise cancellation with three levels. This allows you to get clear, professional audio recordings indoors or outdoors, depending on the background noise. It works with iPhones, iPads, and most Android devices with either a Type-C port or Lightning port. The microphones themselves have built-in batteries that last up to 8 hours on a charge, and they can pick up sound from any direction. They are easy to use; no need for Bluetooth, just plug the transmitter into your device and it will automatically connect. The microphones have a good range of up to 65 feet.- Connector Type: 3.5 mm Jack, 6.35 mm Jack
- Microphone form factor: ?Lavalier
- Recommended uses: Streaming
FIFINE Gaming USB Microphone
The Fifine Gaming microphone lights up in different colors, creating a fun atmosphere for your setup. You can even mute the mic with a quick button touch, and the light will turn off to avoid accidental voice leaks. The mic picks up your voice clearly and focuses on the sounds in front of you. A handy knob lets you adjust the microphone volume independently of your game sound. You can easily tilt the mic to find the perfect position for comfortable streaming. The microphone works with PS4/PS5, desktops, and laptops, and connects with a simple USB cable. The long cable lets you position the mic wherever you need it. It also has a shock mount to minimize vibrations from keyboard and mouse clicks. - Connector Type: USB
- Microphone form factor: ?Built In
- Recommended uses: Gaming, Streaming, Recording, Video Creation, Podcasting
Portronics Dash 7 Omnidirectional Microphone
The Portronics Dash 7 is a super portable wireless microphone that delivers clear audio recording with features like noise cancellation and 360-degree pickup. It uses a 2.4G transmission for stable connection and connects automatically to your device (Android phone with Type-C port, iPhone 15 and above, camera, etc.) with a receiver that plugs into the device. The microphone is rechargeable and can be charged while you record. For some Android phones, you might need to enable OTG in settings or use the "Open Camera" app.- Connector Type: Bluetooth
- Microphone form factor: ?Plugin
- Recommended uses: Video Recording, Live Streaming, Interviewing
HUMBLE Dynamic Lapel Collar Mic
This microphone is a small microphone that you can easily clip on your shirt to record high-quality audio and video on your smartphone or tablet. It works with various devices and is very easy to use. No batteries or extra plugs are required, making it perfect for recording on the go for YouTube, interviews, podcasts, and conference calls.- Connector Type: 3.5 mm Jack
- Microphone form factor: Lavalier
- Recommended uses: Video Recording, Live Streaming, Interviewing
A good microphone is no longer reserved for professional studios in the digital age we live in. Whether you're a streamer, a budding podcaster, a video conferencing pro, or simply looking to elevate your voice calls, having the right microphone can make all the difference. Additionally, ensure that your content is adding value to consumers life and helping people grow!