8 Best Microphone Boom Arm Picks: Prices, Reviews + Setup Guide 2025

You’ve got a mic on your desk, maybe a Blue Yeti or something heavier, and it’s… fine. 

But something’s off. The angles feel awkward, the microphone cable keeps tripping you up, you keep bumping your desk, or the sound isn’t as clean as it could be. 

Then a podcaster mentions a boom arm to hold the microphone.

It’s one of those setups you didn’t know existed until you see it in action, but suddenly it all clicks.

More workspace, easier microphone positioning, and a cleaner recording.

This guide will walk you through the best microphone boom arm for every situation from heavy-duty build quality options all the way to budget-friendly setups, plus tips to get your recording as high-quality as possible.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly which is the best microphone boom arm for your recording setup and how to get your microphone placement just right.

Best Microphone Boom Arm (Top 8 Picks)

Looking for the best microphone boom arm but short on time? 

This table breaks down your top options, what mics they work best with, and the key specs you need to know so you can see all your quality boom arm options at a glance.

Best mic boom arm

Best for: USB mics like Blue Yeti and Logitech Sona

If your desk is your command center for recording, streaming, or podcasting, the Blue Compass makes it feel intentional. 

This Blue Yeti mic boom arm is sleek, solid, and smooth. It lets you swivel your mic exactly where you need it, disappears when it needs to, and won’t get in the way of your setup. At this price, it’s one of the most reliable mounting options you can grab.

• Price: $129.99
• Connection: 3/8″ or 5/8″ threading
• Compatible with: Blue Yeti, Logitech Sona, other mics up to 2.4 lbs

Pros:

• Built tough, won’t wobble during recording
• 360-degree rotation for versatile positioning
• Long reach for bigger setups

Cons:

• Not ideal for a really heavy microphone
• Minor tension adjustments might be needed

Best mic with boom arm

Best for: AT2020 cardioid condenser mic and similar side-address studio mics

If you want a full desk setup to lessen unwanted noise, the AT2020-BDL3 bundle nails it. 

You get the AT2020 condenser mic, an AT8700 boom scissor arm, a compact USB mixer, headphones, and a 10-foot XLR cable. 

Everything is ready to go out of the box, so you can record, stream, or podcast without hunting for gear or dealing with clutter.

• Price: $429
• Connection: XLR
• Compatible with: AT2020, other mics up to 2.2 lbs

Pros:

• Complete bundle (mic, boom arm, mixer, headphones, cable)
• Boom arm holds mic firmly and positions smoothly
• Mixer and headphones let you monitor and mix straight away

Cons:

• Not built for travel, meant for a desk setup
• Boom arm maxes out at 2.2 lbs

Best microphone boom arms for podcasting

Best for: PodMic, Procaster, Broadcaster, and similar high-quality microphones

The RODE PSA1+ is designed to hold your microphone exactly where you want it. Spring-loaded and fully damped, it moves quietly and stays put. Cable management system keeps your setup clean, and it handles most midweight mics with ease.

• Price: $139
• Connection: Standard 3/8″ or 5/8″ mounts
• Compatible with: PodMic, Procaster, Broadcaster, other mics 0.2–2.65 lbs

Pros:

• Smooth, quiet, and precise movement
• Flexible 360-degree positioning
• Keeps cables tidy like the RODE PSA1

Cons:

• Desk clamp fits up to 2.75″ thick
• Max mic weight capacity is 2.65 lbs

Still shopping around? Check out my guide on the best USB microphone for every budget.

Best microphone boom arm for streaming

Best for: Wave microphones, Elgato mics, and other premium voice-over or streaming mics

The Elgato Wave Mic Arm LP stays out of your way without giving up control. Low-profile, solid, and precise, it swings back for live sessions and stays invisible on camera for content creators with limited desk space.

• Price: $99.99
• Connection: 1/4″, 3/8″, 5/8″ mounts
• Compatible with: Mics up to 4.4 lbs, including Wave microphones

Pros:

• Smooth 360-degree rotation
• Padded clamp grips most desk types and holds your microphone securely
• Integrated cable management

Cons:

• Limited to mics under 4.4 lbs
• Only comes in black or white

Best boom arm for Shure SM7B

Best for: Shure SM7B, SM7DB, MV7 series

The Gator Articulating Desktop Boom Arm handles heavy mics without droop. Clamps solidly, swings freely allowing for easy adjustments, and keeps cables tidy. Reliable for serious desk setups under $150.

• Price: $119.99
• Connection: Standard XLR mounts
• Compatible with: Shure SM7B, SM7DB, MV7, MV7+, MV7X

Pros:

• Holds heavy mics with zero droop
• Full 360-degree rotation
• Integrated cable channel keeps setup clean

Cons:

• Joints can feel stiff at first
• Clamp only fits desks up to 2.17” thick

Best budget microphone with boom arm

Best for: Beginners, streamers, podcasters on a tight budget

The FIFINE T669 USB Microphone Bundle gives you mic, boom arm, and accessories in one box. Simple, sturdy, and ready to record

For anyone starting out who wants a full podcast equipment setup without spending hundreds, this is the podcast starter kit I’d grab first.

• Price: $49.99
• Connection: USB 2.0 (Windows, Mac, PS4/PS5)
• Compatible with: Streaming, podcasting, casual vocal recording

Pros:

• Complete starter kit
• Solid audio for voice and first podcasts
• Tough build for a budget bundle

Cons:

• Boom arm is light-duty

Best cheap microphone boom arm

Best for: Lightweight USB mics like the Blue Snowball, Samson Meteor, or Audio-Technica ATR2100x

The NEEWER NW-35 Suspension Boom Arm is affordable, solid, and does the basics. This cheap podcast setup holds mics steady, manages cables, and frees desk space under $25.For anyone who wants the basics covered, this is the cheapest arm worth buying.

• Price: $24.99
• Connection: 5/8″ mount (includes 3/8″ adapter)
• Compatible with: Mics up to 3.3 lbs

Pros:

• Solid steel build
• Wide clamp for stability
• Includes thread adapter and cable straps

Cons:

• Can’t handle heavy mics like Blue Yeti or SM7B
• Springs make noise if adjusted mid-recording
• Feels light compared to midrange/pro arms

I’ve got a full guide on the best budget microphone for podcasters if you’re still weighing your options.

Best microphone boom stand

Best for: Shure SM58, Audio-Technica AT2020, Rode NT1-A

The Samson MK10 is lightweight, portable, and durable. Collapsible tripod fits in bags, simple black finish blends in, and keeps mics steady.

• Price: $34.99
• Connection: Standard 5/8″ thread (includes 3/8″ adapter)
• Compatible with: Most dynamic and condenser mics under 5 lbs

Pros:

• Affordable entry-level option
• Folds quickly for easy storage or travel
• Stable tripod base

Cons:

• Not built for heavier mics like SM7B
• Height adjustment can loosen over time

For more on which mics are ideal for your setup, check out the Talks best podcast microphone guide.

Why Use a Boom Arm

A boom arm isn’t just about optimal microphone placement. The right boom arm gives you control, flexibility, and keeps your desk ready for anything.

Here are ten reasons to grab one:

1. Clear desk, clear mind: Free up space so you can close your laptop or put your coffee down without knocking your mic.
2. Keep your posture in check: Position the microphone at mouth level without hunching over for hours.
3. Block desk vibrations: No more rattles from your keyboard, mouse, or heavy mugs.
4. Perfect for multi-speaker setups: Slide and swing the mic between guests during roundtable recordings.
5. Quick angle swaps: Tilt or rotate for voiceovers, singing, or shouting into the mic without lifting it.
6. Hide it on camera: Push it out of frame during streams while keeping audio crisp.
7. Reduce plosives: Move the mic slightly off-axis to tame harsh “P” and “B” sounds.
8. Adapt to weird spaces: Corner desks, couches, or standing setups? Boom arms flex where rigid stands can’t.
9. Cable sanity: Clip and route cables along the arm to avoid spaghetti disasters.
10. Save time during live sessions: Swing, lock, and record without hunting for a stand or fiddling with mounts mid-stream.

For more beginner-friendly setup tips, see my podcast equipment for beginners guide with full details on microphones and boom arms.

How to Use a Boom Microphone

Using a boom mic isn’t just swinging it around. Here’s the hands-on approach:

1. Mount it: Clamp the arm securely to your desk or table. Make sure it’s tight enough to hold your mic weight.
2. Attach the mic: Screw in or clip your mic, double-checking the thread compatibility.
3. Position the mic: Hover it at mouth height, a few inches away. Angle slightly off-axis for clean vocals.
4. Route the cable: Use built-in clips to keep XLR or USB cords off the desk and out of your way.
5. Lock joints: Tighten all knobs so the mic stays in place during recording or live sessions.
6. Test your reach: Swing the arm in, out, or around to make sure it covers all your positions.
7. Adjust gain and levels: Check your audio input and tweak the mic preamp or interface.
8. Record or stream: Start your session knowing your mic is stable, clean, and out of the way.

For a full list of gear you’ll need to get started, see what equipment is needed for a podcast and learn more about how much podcast equipment costs.

Where to put mic boom arm

Room setup changes everything. Here are ten practical ways to position your mic boom arm:

1. Standard desk corner: Clamp your Blue Yeti microphone stand to the left corner if you’re right-handed and your monitor dominates the right.
2. Standing desk: Arm hovers above the desk, letting you pivot while standing or leaning.
3. Roundtable interview: Center it between two or three speakers for shared audio capture.
4. Small home studio: Against a wall, leaving room for keyboard, mixer, and lighting.
5. Bedroom streaming setup: Clamp to nightstand or side desk to keep the mic off your bed.
6. Tight office nook: Attach to side panel so it swings over your laptop without bumping monitors.
7. Couch podcast: Arm mounted to end table, mic positioned at mouth level for casual conversation.
8. Multi-cam video shoot: Mic behind cameras, arm extended forward, out of sight of all lenses.
9. Live music recording: Arm above instruments, angled toward vocal mic, avoiding strings or keys.
10. Mobile setup: Small clamp on portable table or rig, allowing travel recording without a full stand.

How to set up mic boom arm

Setting up the boom arm is all about stability and positioning before you even hit record:

1. Unbox and inspect: Check screws, springs, and clamps before assembly.
2. Desk clamp first: Ensure your microphone boom arm sits securely on the surface. Desk thickness matters, so don’t over-tighten thin boards.
3. Assemble arm sections: Screw or snap them together according to the instructions.
4. Attach microphone: Use the correct thread or adapter. Make sure the mic sits tight in the clip.
5. Adjust tension: Springs or knobs need fine-tuning so the arm moves smoothly without drooping.
6. Route cables: Thread XLR or USB through clips to prevent snagging.
7. Test range of motion: Swing, lift, and tilt the arm to cover all positions you’ll need.
8. Lock it in place: Tighten all joints to maintain stability during your recording sessions.
9. Final check: Hover a hand near the mic to make sure nothing wobbles or drags.
10. Record a quick test: Confirm audio capture is clean before going full session.

Is a Mic Arm Worth It?

I get it. Selecting a microphone boom arm can feel like just another “you should have this” piece of gear. But the truth is, it depends on how you work. 

Like anything else, it’s got its strengths and its limits, and knowing both helps you decide if it’s worth the space on your desk.

Pros:

1. Keeps your workflow smooth: No more readjusting mics mid-session.
2. Protects expensive gear: Stable hold prevents drops or accidental bumps.
3. Saves time and hassle: Swing, lock, and go without interrupting your flow.

Cons:

1. Can be overkill for tiny setups: If you barely move your mic, a basic stand might suffice.
2. Some models need fine-tuning: Springs and clamps sometimes require adjustments.
3. Budget arms have limits: Heavy mics may need a premium arm for full support.

Microphone boom arm review

Still debating if a mic arm is worth it? Here’s what actual users are saying:

• AT2020-BDL3 bundle: “I’ve had the mic for a while now… I use it for everything from Discord voice calls to recording acoustic guitar, and it does exactly what I need it to do. If used correctly, this mic sounds fantastic.” – Calvin
• RODE PSA1+: “After watching many YouTube videos, I invested in this arm… the ease of this setup simplified the learning curve. I’m happy with the purchase and do recommend it.” – Joan H., Missoula, MT
• Elgato Wave Mic Arm LP: “So I use a Shure SM7B which weighs a TONNE! I used to use a floor standing studio boom that would fall over… this is rock solid. The cable managing/concealer is amazing.” – Behaving Beardly, Twitch Streamer
• FIFINE T669 bundle: “It works exactly as advertised, works with multiple devices with easy set up. My only difficulty was attaching it to my desk but that’s just because my desk has a weird shape. I added a layer between the desk and mic and it worked perfectly.”
• Samson MK10 stand: “We’re a local band that likes to run Fests with other artists and I am the guy with the gear! I love these mic stands for three reasons: 1) they collapse down to make carrying EASY 2) they are lightweight and 3) they are economical. Very happy to be not be lugging around the others! I use 4 (four) of these in my setup (2 stands in back row in picture are MK10s).” – Eugene

Mic Placement So Good You’ll Forget It’s There

A tidy desk and a mic that stays exactly where you want it make all the difference. 

The best microphone boom arm doesn’t just hold your mic. It gives you room to move, keeps your audio consistent, and makes your setup feel professional without a second thought.

The real win comes when your setup just works. You can focus on recording, streaming, or hosting without constantly adjusting gear, and that’s when a strong boom arm earns its keep.

If you’re ready to make your podcast setup work harder and smarter, stop hunting for guests the hard way. 

Create your free Talks profile today and start booking the right voices who’ll make your show impossible to ignore.