28 Best USB Microphone Picks 2025: Costs, Reviews & Buying Guide

Ever hit record and cringe at the playback?

Muffled voice. Background hum. Cheap mic energy.

If you’re using your voice to grow your audience, your mic needs to pull its weight. If you’re a coach, speaker or expert, this is the easiest and best upgrade you can make.

I’ve tested more setups than I’d like to admit. Some sound great in theory, then flop on a Zoom call. Others promise studio quality, then fall apart on the road.

This guide covers the best USB microphone options actually worth your time. You’ll find solid picks for different setups, budgets, and use cases, with clear examples and comparisons to help you choose.

Let’s find your mic.

What Is the Best USB Microphone?

Best for: Creators who want studio sound with easy setup

The RØDE NT1 5th Gen gives you everything you’re looking for in one mic. It’s quiet, clean, and makes your voice sound like it’s been professionally mixed. Ideal mic for podcasting, voiceover work, or coaches recording training sessions.

• Price: $249
• Compatible with: Mac, PC, audio interfaces

Pros:

• Records voices that are loud in front of the microphone without distortion
• Comes with pop filter, shock mount, USB cables
• Has built-in DSP

Cons:

• No headphone jack
• Sensitive to noisy recording environment

Best quality USB microphone

Best for: Podcasters and voice coaches wanting warm, clear sound

The Shure MV7 borrows from the classic SM7B, with options for USB or XLR mics. Comes with an app to adjust tone if you want.

• Price: $299
• Compatible with: Mac, PC, audio interfaces

Pros:

• Warm, broadcast-style sound
• Built-in noise reduction

Cons:

• App can add complexity

Best USB mic condenser

Best for: Coaches and podcasters recording in quiet spaces

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ gives crisp, clear sound but picks up room noise, so best in a controlled space.

• Price: $242.96
• Compatible with: Mac, PC

Pros:

• Clear, accurate sound
• Headphone jack with volume control

Cons:

• Picks up more room noise

Best USB dynamic mic

Best for: Beginners who want good sound without a whole podcast equipment bundle

The Samson Q2U handles background noise well and offers USB and XLR. Comes with everything needed to get started.

• Price: $79.99
• Compatible with: Mac, PC, interfaces

Pros:

• Great value
• Easy to use

Cons:

• Build feels basic

Best USB microphone for podcasts

Best for: Podcasters wanting warm sound and tough build

The RODE PodMic USB delivers that close-up, warm tone that makes podcasts sound polished. It’s also one of the best podcast mics that feels rugged and looks good on camera.

• Price: $209
• Compatible with: Mac, PC, USB audio interfaces

Pros:

• Solid sound
• Built-in DSP filters

Cons:

• No headphone jack

Best USB microphone for laptops

Best for: Coaches or remote workers who need compact, reliable audio

The Logitech Blue Yeti Nano packs the classic Yeti quality into a smaller, sturdy design. It offers adjustable pickup patterns and clear and full sound, perfect for tight workspaces and remote calls.

• Price: $99.99
• Compatible with: Mac, PC

Pros:

• Small and sturdy
• Multiple pickup options

Cons:

• Not as full-sounding as larger mics

Best USB microphone for iPhone

Best for: Creators recording on the move

The Shure MV88+ plugs straight into your iPhone and comes with a tripod, cables, and app control. It’s light, reliable, and records clean audio in pretty much any setting.

• Price: $279
• Compatible with: iOS, Android, laptops

Pros:

• Light, built to last
• Good mobile audio

Cons:

• MOTIV app required for full control

Best USB microphone with noise cancelling

Best for: Streamers and gamers blocking background noise

The Maono DGM20S has cardioid polar pattern pickup and noise reduction with one button. Includes mic stand and pop filter.

• Price: $69.99
• Compatible with: Mac, PC, PS4/5

Pros:

• Simple setup
• Noise control works well

Cons:

• RGB lighting might not fit all spaces

Best USB Microphone by Budget

If you’re wondering how much podcast equipments costs, here’s what I’ll tell you: finding the right mic doesn’t mean spending big. 

Whether you’re just starting out or testing the waters before going all in, here are solid USB mic options at different price points (from cheap podcast setups to the more luxurious options). 

Each one chosen for clarity, ease of use, and real-world performance.

Best USB microphone under $50

Best for: Creators ready to upgrade their podcast equipment for beginners 

The Fifine K669B is one of the best entry-level USB mics out there. It’s compact, all metal, and records clear audio for the price. Ideal if you’re just starting and want a real upgrade over your built-in mic.

• Price: $29.99
• Compatible with: Mac, PC

Pros:

• Better sound than most built-in mics
• Durable metal case

Cons:

• Picks up background noise

Best USB microphone under $100

Best for: Coaches and creators who want a clean voice sound

The Maono HD300T is a broadcast-style dynamic mic with USB and XLR. Comes with basic accessories.

• Price: $79.99
• Compatible with: Mac, PC, audio interfaces

Pros:

• Comes with stand, pop filter, and cables

Cons:

• Basic stand

Best USB mic under $150

Best for: Podcasters and guests wanting straightforward sound

The Beyerdynamic FOX offers natural, detailed sound and feels like it belongs in a studio. It’s great for voice and vocals, has real-time monitoring, and doesn’t need any extras to sound polished.

• Price: $89.99
• Compatible with: Mac, PC

Pros:

• Zero-latency headphone monitoring
• Sturdy build

Cons:

• Minimal controls

Best USB microphone under $200

Best for: Podcasters upgrading their setup

The Elgato Wave:3 is built for creators. It has a sleek look, intuitive software, and crisp audio, especially for talking straight to the camera. It also includes Clipguard tech to stop your voice from distorting when things get loud.

• Price: $149.99
• Compatible with: Mac, PC

Pros:

• Clean, broadcast-ready voice tone
• Wave Link app gives great control

Cons:

• Software takes time to learn
• No pop filter

What Is the Best USB Microphone for Singing?

Best for: Singers wanting built-in compression

The Apogee HypeMiC stands out for one reason: it has a built-in analog compressor. That means your vocals get that smooth, controlled sound without clipping or peaking even when you belt. It’s tiny, powerful, and ready to record anywhere.

• Price: $399
• Compatible with: Mac, PC, iOS

Pros:

• Clean, high-resolution audio
• Includes tripod, pop filter, and cables

Cons:

• Pricier than most USB mics
• Compressor settings are fixed

Best USB microphone for music

Best for: Artists recording music, vocals, and instruments

The iRig Stream Mic Pro supports multiple pickup patterns and has a built-in interface.

• Price: $169.99
• Compatible with: Mac, PC, iOS, Android

Pros:

• Works for voice and instruments
• Gain and mix controls onboard

Cons:

• Plastic build
• App required for full features

Best budget USB microphone for vocals

Best for: Beginners or hobbyists need to buy a mic on a small budget

The JOBY Wavo POD is one of the best budget mics that offers selectable cardioid or omnidirectional microphone polar patterns, and includes a pop filter and headphone jack for real-time monitoring.

• Price: $19
• Compatible with: Mac, PC

Pros:

• Warm sound for vocals
• Easy to switch multiple polar patterns

Cons:

• No windscreen included

Best USB microphone for music recording

Best for: Multi-instrumentalists and vocalists recording at home

The Zoom ZUM-2 Podcast Mic Pack is more than just a mic; it’s a reliable podcast starter kit. It’s a strong all-in-one choice for musicians building a simple, effective home setup.

• Price: $99.99
• Compatible with: Mac, PC

Pros:

• Includes studio headphones
• Plug and play

Cons:

• Not ideal for live vocals

Best USB microphone for studio recording

Best for: Musicians and vocalists recording in a quiet space

The Earthworks ICON sounds crisp and natural. It’s a higher-end option but super simple: no buttons, no knobs. Just clean audio if your room’s quiet enough. Looks great on camera too, if that matters to you.

• Price: $349
• Compatible with: Mac, PC

Pros:

• Clear, accurate sound
• Sleek, minimal design

Cons:

• No gain or mute controls
• Not great in noisy rooms

Best USB Desktop Microphone

Best for: Coaches, streamers, and remote workers using a clean desk setup

The Razer Seiren V2 X is small, sharp, and sounds great. It handles background noise well making it great for virtual training, client calls, or YouTube recordings from your workspace.

• Price: $59.95
• Compatible with: Mac, PC

Pros:

• Audio mixing via Razer Synapse
• Built-in shock absorption

Cons:

• No headphone jack

Best USB microphone for PC

Best for: Windows users who want easy setup and clear voice

The SteelSeries Alias is a USB-C condenser mic with a large capsule for detailed sound. Comes with Sonar software for mixing and AI noise cancellation (Windows only).

• Price: $179
• Compatible with: PC

Pros:

• LED meters and mute indicator
• Shock mount included
• RGB lighting

Cons:

• Software is Windows-only
• Not travel-friendly

Best USB microphone for Mac

Best for: Mac users who want flexible sound and simple setup

Maybe I’m biased, maybe I’m not. But the Blue Yeti Multi-Pattern USB mic is a classic for a reason. I’ve had mine since 2015 and it’s one of the best USB microphones for podcasting and live streaming in my books.

It’s a great and reliable microphone with USB, sounds solid, and just works no matter what you’re recording. You get four pickup patterns, a built-in mute button, gain control, and a headphone jack.

• Price: $139.99
• Compatible with: Mac, PC

Pros:

• Easy onboard controls
• Works with most setups out of the box

Cons:

• Bulky design
• No XLR option

Best USB Microphone for Video Conferencing

Best for: Professionals and remote teams who need to sound clear and confident on every call

The Sennheiser Profile is clean, quiet, and built to last. It’s got just the basics (gain, mix, mute, and headphone volume) and they’re all easy to use. No software needed. Just plug in and go.

• Price: $129
• Compatible with: Mac, PC, iPadOS, Android

Pros:

• Built-in controls for mute, mix, and gain
• Solid metal body

Cons:

• No onboard EQ or presets
• Pickup pattern is fixed (cardioid only)

Best USB microphone for YouTube

Best for: Creators who want clean voiceovers, easy setup, and smart features

The SSL Connex punches above its weight. Four DSP modes, smart level control, and a quad mic array that delivers crisp, broadcast-quality sound. You can just plug it into anything.

• Price: $99.99
• Compatible with: Mac, PC, iOS, Android

Pros:

• Sharp, studio-level clarity
• 4 voice modes + auto-mixing
• Works with any device

Cons:

• No XLR
• A bit wide for tight setups

Best USB microphone for Discord

Best for: Gamers and community builders who want to sound clear and sharp

The HyperX QuadCast S nails the look and the sound. With rich voice pickup, tap-to-mute, and clean onboard controls, it’s ready for group calls, game streams, and late-night Discord debates.

• Price: $159.99
• Compatible with: Mac, PC, PS5, PS4

Pros:

• Built-in pop filter and shock mount
• Tap-to-mute with LED

Cons:

• Sensitive to desk bumps

Best USB microphone for Zoom

Best for: Coaches, remote leaders, or anyone who wants to sound professional on Zoom

The TONOR TC30 is a budget-friendly USB mic that delivers surprisingly polished sound. It’s dead simple to set up and use, using recording software or tuning isn’t required. Just plug in the audio equipment and go.

• Price: $36.99
• Compatible with: Mac, PC, Linux, PS4

Pros:

• Fast setup
• Comes with shock mount and stand

Cons:

• No onboard controls
• Picks up desk noise without padding

Best USB Microphone for Gaming

Best for: Gamers who want better sound without an audio interface

The Elgato Wave Neo is a plug-and-play mic that keeps your voice clean and your desk setup simple. It handles keyboard noise well, sounds sharp out of the box, and looks great on camera. Bonus: tap-to-mute keeps things quiet when you need it.

• Price: $89.99
• Compatible with: Mac, PC, iPad, PS5 (Lightning adapter required for iOS)

Pros:

• Clean, controlled voice tone
• Sleek design with built-in stand

Cons:

• No onboard gain control
• No software for deeper tuning

Best USB dynamic microphone for streaming

Best for: Streamers wanting warm voice and less background noise

The Mackie EM-USB Condenser mic cuts out keyboard clicks and background hum while keeping your voice warm and upfront. No interface or added gear required.

• Price: $149
• Compatible with: Mac, PC

Pros:

• Warm voice tone
• Durable

Cons:

• No companion software

Best USB microphone headset

Best for: Gamers wanting comfort and clear voice

The Yealink UH37 is one of the best headset microphones. It’s light and comfortable with dual noise-cancelling mics. Boom mutes when lifted.

• Price: $130 (approximate market price)
• Compatible with: PC, Mac

Pros:

• Dual noise-cancelling
• Comfortable for long use

Cons:

• No RGB or wireless

Best USB headset with a microphone

Best for: Gamers and remote workers who want reliable sound

The Audeze Maxwell (USB-C) offers a clear and natural sound plus a solid boom mic. USB-C or wireless, with 80+ hours battery for your recording session.

• Price: $299
• Compatible with: PC, Mac, PS5, Xbox (separate version)

Pros:

• Good noise reduction on mic
• Long battery life

Cons:

• Controls take some getting used to

Is a USB Microphone Better?

If you’re choosing between USB and XLR, USB mics are the easy winner for simplicity. They’re plug-and-play, affordable, and work great for podcasting, live streaming, and coaching. Ideal for content creators who don’t need a full studio setup.

Here’s a quick look at the advantages and drawbacks USB microphones offer:

Best USB microphone brands

Here are the top USB mic brands known worldwide for build quality, sound performance, and long-term reliability:

1. Shure: Known for clean, clear sound. The MV7 handles both USB and XLR.
2. Blue (Logitech): Popularized USB mics. The Yeti is easy to use with handy onboard controls.
3. RODE: Aussie brand with strong, broadcast-style sound. The NT-USB line is a podcast favourite.
4. Audio-Technica: Crisp and natural audio. The AT2020USB+ is a common pick for creators.
5. Elgato: Geared for streamers. The Wave:3 combines good sound with smart software control.
6. Samson: Great sound for the price. Simple gear that gets the job done.
7. Fifine: Low-cost mics with decent performance and mic technique. Good starting point.
8. HyperX: Started in gaming, now used by streamers and podcasters too.
9. Razer: Clean sound, sleek design, and RGB flair. Appeals to younger creators.
10. AKG: Known for studio gear, the AKG Lyra USB mic offers rich sound and sleek retro design.

You’ve Got Your Mic. Now Make It Count.

You’ve seen the options, sorted the brands, and picked the best USB microphone for your podcasting setup. Clean sound, easy setup, solid build and you’re good to go.

Now it’s not just about how you sound. It’s who you bring on. Because even the best mic can’t fix a boring guest.

If you’re a podcast host looking for real stories, sharp guests, and episodes that sound like more than small talk, create your free Talks profile today.

We’ll help match you with experts worth sharing the mic with.

Create Your Free Talks Creator Profile Here