TOP 15 best microphones for a computer with clear sound: rating 2021-2022 and which budget one to choose for recording vocals

When purchasing a microphone for a computer, you need to clearly define its purpose. First of all, this is a sound recording. Then you need to think about the convenience of the design, sensitivity, and frequency.

We analyzed data on purchases of PC microphones in Russia in 2021-2022 and selected the best models for you according to reviews from experts and ordinary consumers.

When choosing, we took into account both the results of specialist research and customer opinions about the quality and reliability of microphones. Let's look at the rating of the best models in our article.

Rating of the TOP 15 best microphones for PC 2021-2022

Conclusion: which microphone to buy for PC

These were the best computer microphones in 2022. Among professional models, HyperX QuadCast stands out. This microphone produces high-quality sound, suitable for gaming, recording streams and podcasts.

If you need an inexpensive microphone with good sound quality, you should choose between the Sven MK-200 or Defender MIC-117. Both models will cost less than 300 rubles. At the same time, they are quite suitable for communication.

Beginning bloggers will love the Razer Seiren X or AKG C44 USB. Both microphones are relatively inexpensive and produce high-quality sound.

How to choose a microphone for a PC in terms of price/quality ratio?

When buying a microphone for a computer, you need to pay attention to the following characteristics:

1. Mounting type . There are desktop, attached to clothing, condenser, and wireless headsets. The choice depends on individual preferences.
2. Suppression of external noise. The microphone must pick up the voice and not react to extraneous sounds - car noise, wind, etc.
3. Reliability of the design and cord . A microphone is a mobile device. It is often moved from place to place, so its durability depends on its durability.
4. Sensitivity . The higher it is, the better. Then you won't have to bring the device close to your mouth.
5. Compactness . This parameter is important if you have limited space on your desktop and need to take the microphone with you.
6. Sound pressure . The device can receive a good signal, but process and transmit sound in low quality. This setting determines how clear the sound will be reproduced.

No. 4 – Trust GXT 252 Emita

Price: 9,600 rubles

The best microphone for streaming in the manufacturer’s lineup. The model is popular in Russia and is presented in many retail stores - you don’t have to order it from the Internet. As with the previous representative of the top, the kit includes all the parts necessary for a professional. The device is ready for use immediately after connection; the cable length is 1.6 meters, which is enough for all users.

The microphone is a condenser and therefore has high sensitivity. Due to this, you do not have to place it in close proximity; it perfectly captures speech at a distance of up to 70-80 cm. If you often invite friends to your streams, pay attention to the GXT 252 Emita.

Trust GXT 252 Emita

TOP 3 best microphones for PC by price/quality for 2021-2022

Let's look at the best microphone models for laptops and computers with a good price-quality ratio.

Maono AU-A04

A high quality stationary device from a very reliable manufacturer . Technical

the parameters make it possible to use it in professional fields, such as presentations, interviews, studio recording, games, public speaking, voiceovers.

The microphone is equipped with a convenient design that is highly reliable.

For maximum comfort, the model has a tripod stand, anti-vibration mounting, and wind protection, which allows it to be used outdoors. The metal body is durable and wear-resistant, so the microphone will last a long time.

It connects to gadgets using a USB connector, which allows you to install the microphone on all modern computers, laptops, and sound recording devices.

In the manufacture of this model, modern technologies and materials are used, which makes it possible to record high-quality audio.

Specifications:

• purpose - podcasts, television, radio, streaming, studio;
• variety - capacitor;
• design - stationary;
• frequency - 30-16000 Hz;
• sound pressure - 120 dB.

pros

• good sound with minimal extraneous noise;
• convenient design;
• excellent sensitivity;
• perfect set;
• long cord.

Minuses

• Sometimes there are difficulties with the settings.

Redragon Seyfert GM100

Heavy-duty microphone, ideal for studio and streaming recording.

Perfect for playing sound in videos on YouTube and other platforms.

Equipped with a tripod for more comfortable use. The set also includes a pop filter, which eliminates background and extraneous noise. Compact design does not take up much space, easy to transport.

Easy to connect, even a non-technical person can handle the settings . Compatible with any computers.

The omnidirectional microphone allows you to pick up sound from any position. All characteristics and structure provide the most comfortable use.

Specifications:

• purpose - studio, streaming;
• variety - capacitor;
• design - tabletop;
• frequency - 30-16000 Hz;
• sound pressure - 120 dB.

pros

• long wire;
• high-quality sound recording;
• good equipment;
• low cost;
• presence of a pop filter;
• perfectly picks up sound even from a distance.

Minuses

• unstable tripod stand.

BEHRINGER C-1

A simple and convenient condenser microphone . The body is made of metal

material, which provides high wear resistance, despite the budget cost.

The technical capabilities of the device are also encouraging. Thanks to good sound pressure, it is possible to use it in film production, concerts, and studio conditions.

The light weight of the design allows you to work with the microphone for a long time - your hand will not get tired for a long time.

The model is versatile due to its parameters, so it is suitable for use in all recording fields.

It is connected and configured as simply as possible, there are no installation problems.

The only drawback is the rather weak equipment, but it is worth noting that all resources in this case were spent on recording quality.

Specifications:

• purpose - concert, studio, universal;
• variety - capacitor;
• design - stationary;
• frequency - 40-20000 Hz;
• sound pressure - 136 dB.

pros

• budget price;
• good recording quality;
• excellent sensitivity;
• resistance to reboots;
• reliable metal construction.

Minuses

• There are no sound settings.

Main technical characteristics

Each microphone, like other devices, has different technical characteristics that are important to consider when choosing. They seriously affect the sound quality of the device.

First of all, we need to talk about the frequency range. The larger it is, the better, of course. But it is important to remember that speech frequency varies from 0.1 to 10 kHz. That is, if you need to record a voice, then you can choose a microphone that has such a frequency range. In general, a device with a frequency of 65-1300 Hz (hertz) will be sufficient.

Important! Too much frequency range is not needed to perform common tasks. They can only cause serious interference and deterioration in sound quality during a conversation.

The next parameter is the so-called sound pressure. It will allow you to understand what the maximum sound will be from the microphone. It is measured in dB, that is, decibels. With the right sound pressure, the sound will come out without unnecessary interference, and the interlocutor will hear you well.

Sound directionality is a parameter that will show how sensitive the model is to various noises and other sounds coming from everywhere. After all, we don’t carry on conversations in complete silence - there may be a TV on nearby, music playing, neighbors starting renovations, and so on.

Podcast Studio microphone

In most cases, microphones are not directional. That is, they pick up speech and all the noise around equally well. In general, they are perfect for standard computer work, that is, for conferences, regular conversations, and games. However, if you need to record a specific sound, you will have to look for a specialized one-way microphone.

Sensitivity is also an important indicator on which the sound quality of the device will depend. It denotes the lowest sound level that this model can pick up. Devices with significant sensitivity often pick up all the sounds around well. So we can’t say that such microphones are an ideal option. It's better to choose something in between.

TOP 3 best PC microphones for streaming

Streaming is a fairly popular field of activity for modern people. Therefore, streamers should get a high-quality microphone for their computer. Let's look at the best models for streaming in 2021-2022.

Ritmix RDM-169

One of the best desktop models for connecting to a PC . With this microphone

You will be able to seamlessly conduct streams, presentations, and video chat.

The device is made in a simple style, the body is made of high quality plastic.

The sound quality is on par with studio microphones. Conveniently installed on a table using a tripod. Thanks to its compact dimensions, it does not take up much space.

It perfectly reproduces spoken language, and this is exactly what a real streamer needs.

Ideal for home use. Does not require special technical skills to connect or configure. Great budget microphone.

Specifications:

• purpose - vocal, streaming, studio;
• variety - capacitor;
• design - tabletop;
• frequency - 30-20000 Hz;
• sound pressure - 120 dB.

pros

• rich equipment;
• good sound transmission;
• affordable price;
• reliable design;
• not quiet.

Minuses

• The cable is too short to connect to the PC;
• flimsy bracket.

Maono AU-A04T

High quality stationary microphone with a very comfortable design . Makes it easier

professional activities when conducting streams, presentations, public speaking, voice-over recordings.

The device is equipped with a tripod stand for more comfortable use.

The model has a metal body, which ensures high wear resistance of the structure.

For maximum convenience, the manufacturer has taken care of the presence of wind protection and a pop filter.

The device can be connected to most computers, laptops, and sound recording devices.

In the manufacture of this model, modern technologies and materials are introduced, which ensures high sound quality during operation.

Specifications:

• purpose - streaming, studio, podcast, for recording on radio, television;
• variety - capacitor;
• design - tabletop;
• frequency - 30-16000 Hz;
• sound pressure - 120 dB.

pros

• low price;
• convenient connection;
• good sound reproduction;
• rich equipment;
• comfortable design.

Minuses

• There is a bit of background hum.

BOYA BY-M1

A universal lavalier microphone that is ideal not only for streaming, but also for podcasts, broadcasting on television, radio, and just for everyday use.

Therefore, this model attracts potential users with its versatility.

A four-pin connector and an integrated preamplifier make it possible to connect the device to a computer, laptop, smartphone, tablet, or video camera.

When working with gadgets that are designed to interact with condenser-type microphones, the preamplifier is turned off.

An excellent option for streaming at a low cost. Interacts perfectly with all gadgets.

Specifications:

• purpose - streaming, podcast, radio, television;
• variety - capacitor;
• design - lavalier;
• frequency - 65-18000 Hz;
• sound pressure - 120 dB.

pros

• budget cost;
• excellent sound quality;
• high-quality assembly;
• rich equipment;
• long cord.

Minuses

• There is no battery charging indicator.

Criterias of choice

Price. People have different taste preferences, as well as financial capabilities, and some may find the sound quality of an inexpensive microphone to be better than a product that will cost the buyer much more.

Characteristics. They are important and should be listened to. For example, the sensitivity of the microphone deserves special attention.

Brand. If we consider the products of any one manufacturer, we can identify a number of common characteristics that will be inherent in almost every product. These include signature sound, timbre and color.

Product category. You should not shell out a tidy sum for a product that belongs to the category of professional equipment if we are talking about amateur recordings at home. You should also not save money when setting up a full-fledged studio. There is a category of products on the market that is recommended for use for recording instruments, voice, video blogging, radio broadcasting, voice acting or streaming.

Listening to TV shows or YouTube channels. In most cases, little or no attention is paid to this point. Gaming headsets can also be used for surfing the Internet and watching videos on the Internet. Sound quality is important, so you shouldn’t be lazy and try.

Sound. You should not give preference to popular models that help smooth out the sound. Timbre coloring should also be absent. Whenever possible, such “smoothing” should be avoided when recording vocals.

Other factors. The case should be made of high-strength material - metal that can easily survive several drops.

Design. Appearance also matters. Preference should be given to neutral tones, ones that will not bother you.

Equipment. The functionality of the device may directly depend on this. The set may include branded pop filters, as well as holders (stands), but a high-quality set is rare, so you often have to buy everything yourself.

TOP 3 best PC microphones for vocals

Many people have amazing vocal abilities. To practice regularly, as well as to delight others with your voice, you need a good microphone. Let's consider the rating of the best models for vocals in 2021-2022.

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+

Microphone made using innovative technology . Equipped with cardioid

diaphragm, which is ideal for digital audio recording using a regular laptop or computer.

It has high intelligibility and studio-quality sound articulation.

The design is equipped with a headphone output, which ensures maximum comfortable use.

The model is also suitable for high-quality speech reproduction.

The result is clear sound without extraneous noise. The device is easy to install, connect, and the settings are easy to understand. An excellent option for those who practice vocals at a professional level.

Specifications:

• purpose - vocal, studio;
• variety - capacitor;
• design - tabletop;
• frequency - 20-20000 Hz;
• sound pressure - 136 dB.

pros

• excellent sound quality;
• perfect set;
• compact dimensions;
• high sensitivity;
• stable tripod stand;
• monolithic body.

Minuses

• there is no mute button;
• high price.

Maono AU-PM422

An ideal multi-functional microphone that is great for practicing vocalists.

You can also use it to record streams, podcasts, and conduct online conferences.

The design has a metal case, a headphone jack, sensitivity adjustment, microphone operation indicator, anti-vibration mounting with a threaded connection.

Also equipped with wind protection and a pop filter.

The connector makes it possible to connect the device to all modern computers, laptops, and recording gadgets.

The model is versatile - it can be used in all professional fields related to sound recording, and is also suitable for domestic use.

Specifications:

• purpose - vocal, instrumental, podcast, streaming, for radio, television, conferences;
• variety - capacitor;
• design - tabletop;
• frequency - 20-20000 Hz;
• sound pressure - 120 dB.

pros

• low price;
• excellent sound recording quality;
• no background noise is heard;
• rich equipment;
• presence of an operation indicator on the body.

Minuses

• Inconvenient tripod stand.

Fifine K678

Microphone made of high quality materials, which ensures a long service life.

Equipped with a cardioid diaphragm, which is ideal for digitized audio recording using a regular laptop or computer. It has high intelligibility and studio-quality sound articulation.

The design is equipped with a headphone output, which ensures maximum comfortable operation.

The model is also suitable for high-quality speech reproduction. The result is clear sound without extraneous noise.

The device is easy to install, connect, and even a non-technical person can figure out the settings.

An excellent option for those who practice vocals at a professional level.

Specifications:

• purpose - vocal, podcast, streaming, radio, television;
• variety - capacitor;
• design - tabletop;
• frequency - 40-20000 Hz;
• sound pressure - 85 dB.

pros

• presence of a microphone mute button;
• low cost;
• excellent sound;
• good build quality;
• It is possible to connect headphones.

Minuses

• No

Audio interface

We have looked at the existing types of microphones, now we need to understand their technical characteristics in more detail. First we'll talk about the audio interface. Simply put, it is the way the PC and microphone interact.

Note that the computer processes only digital signals. The microphone produces an analog version, which is then converted into a digital version in the PC audio card, that is, a discrete version. Unfortunately, in this case there is a loss of sound quality.

Lavalier microphone MP5 mini USB

To avoid severe loss of sound quality, it is recommended to choose a microphone that has a direct connection option via an XLR port. These are installed on dedicated audio cards. But, in order not to purchase them, you can buy a headset that has a USB connection method, which has its own built-in audio card (with the exception of cheap models).

The analog option is a connection via a standard mini-jack connector. Connecting through it is not a professional method, but it is excellent for performing standard tasks.

TOP 3 Best PC Microphones for Gaming

Let's take a look at the best microphones for PC that are ideal for gaming.

Audio-Technica AT2020

Microphone made using innovative technology . Equipped with cardioid

diaphragm, which is ideal for digital audio recording using a regular laptop or computer.

It has high intelligibility and studio-quality sound articulation . The kit includes a stand holder, adapter, and protective case.

The model is also suitable for high-quality speech reproduction. The result is clear sound without extraneous noise.

The device is easy to install, connect, and the settings are easy to understand.

An excellent option for those who play a lot of online games and need to communicate through a microphone.

Specifications:

• purpose - studio, universal;
• variety - capacitor;
• design - stationary;
• frequency -20-20000 Hz;
• sound pressure - 144 dB.

pros

• good equipment;
• high build quality;
• ideal sound recording quality;
• affordable price;
• ease of connection and settings.

Minuses

• No

Maono AU-PM461TR

Studio model that does not require an external audio card . Works great with any

modern gadgets. Ideal for streaming, voiceovers, vocals, and online conferencing.

Can be paired with all of today's popular applications.

The set includes a convenient stand that provides maximum comfort during operation.

For better voice reproduction, it is recommended to keep the microphone at a distance of 4-5 centimeters from the broadcast source.

The budget price completes the good impression of this model.

Specifications:

• purpose - gaming, podcast, vocal, streaming, for conferences, radio, television;
• variety - capacitor;
• design - tabletop;
• frequency - 20-20000 Hz;
• sound pressure - 60 dB.

pros

• interfaces with all types of gadgets;
• excellent sound quality;
• low price;
• good noise reduction;
• convenient design.

Minuses

• There is no way to completely turn off the sound transmission, just turn down the volume.

HAMA P35 Allround (00139905)

High quality stationary microphone with a very comfortable design . Makes it easier

professional activities when conducting streams, presentations, public speaking, voice-over recordings.

Also ideal for gaming. The device is equipped with a tripod stand for more comfortable use.

The model has a metal body, which ensures high wear resistance of the structure.

For maximum convenience, the manufacturer has taken care of the presence of wind protection and a pop filter. The device can be connected to most computers, laptops, and sound recording devices.

In the manufacture of this model, modern technologies and materials are introduced, which ensures high sound quality during operation.

Specifications:

• purpose - gaming, streaming;
• variety - capacitor;
• design - tabletop;
• frequency - 50-16000 Hz;
• sound pressure - 120 dB.

pros

• high build quality;
• excellent level of noise reduction;
• budget cost;
• good volume reserve.

Minuses

• inconvenient, non-demountable design.

#3 – Thronmax MDrill One Pro

Price: 4,990 rubles

One of the best solutions for its price on the market in 2020. The model has a stylish design and will perfectly complement your work area. The microphone can operate in several modes - cardioid, stereo, bidirectional and omnidirectional. It is convenient to switch between them using one button.

Thus, the solution will become a universal option, suitable for single, group broadcasts and music broadcasts with guitar or other instruments. The device will equally clearly capture both your voice and the sounds of the guitar. The downside is that it is difficult to find a model in domestic retail stores, so you will almost certainly have to order it from the Internet. In the reviews, the owners do not complain about the microphone.

Thronmax MDrill One Pro

TOP 3 best budget microphones for PC

Let's look at the best microphone models for computers in the budget price segment.

BLAST BAM-120

Microphone with tabletop design, ideal for home use.

Equipped with a button to mute sound playback, which is very convenient during online conferences, chats, and game dialogues.

The device does not take up much space due to its compact dimensions and ergonomics.

The length of the cable allows you to easily connect the microphone to your computer. It does not have high sensitivity parameters, but its functionality is quite limited.

This model is an assistant for those gadgets that do not have built-in devices for sound playback.

Specifications:

• purpose - for computer;
• variety - dynamic;
• design - tabletop;
• frequency - 16-20000 Hz;
• sound pressure - 60 dB.

pros

• convenient design;
• high build quality;
• low cost;
• ergonomics.

Minuses

• very low sensitivity.

SVEN MK-390

This model is designed for comfortable online communication in various chats.

Equipped with a stable stand that eliminates discomfort during operation.

The design also includes a special leg. With its help, you can adjust the angle of the microphone for additional convenience.

The device is also equipped with an on/off key, so you can stop sound playback at any time.

The main feature of this model is that it guarantees truly high-quality sound. At every frequency level, the microphone demonstrates perfect reproduction.

The long cable is wrapped in fabric braiding, which provides additional strength and prevents tangling in wires.

Specifications:

• purpose - for computer;
• variety - electret;
• design - tabletop;
• frequency - 20-16000 Hz;
• sound pressure - 58 dB.

pros

• low price;
• ease of connection;
• you can adjust the angle of the device;
• long cable with high strength;
• good sound for this price segment.

Minuses

• tight sound on/off button;
• Background noise is very audible, only suitable for use in perfect silence.

Fifine K053

Microphone with lavalier design, ideal for home use.

Equipped with a button to mute sound playback, which is very convenient during online conferences, chats, and game dialogues.

The device does not take up much space due to its compact dimensions and ergonomics.

The length of the cable allows you to easily connect the microphone to your computer.

It does not have high sensitivity parameters, but its functionality is quite limited.

This model is an assistant for those gadgets that do not have built-in devices for sound playback.

Specifications:

• purpose - for computer;
• variety - capacitor;
• design - lavalier;
• frequency - 50-16000 Hz;
• sound pressure - 38 dB.

pros

• good quality of recorded sound with minimal extraneous noise;
• easy connection and setup;
• long cable for connecting to a PC;
• budget cost.

Minuses

• USB module is too wide.

Saramonic SmartMic

Compact inexpensive microphone for phone from Aliexpress.

Sixth place in the ranking of the most budget microphones goes to a small microphone for a phone with a 3.5 mm mini-jack connection - Saramonic SmartMic ($25). The microphone works great on both iPhone and Android. You just need to install an application that allows you to record sound from an external microphone. The model is compact: there are no wires, only a plug and the microphone itself, which can be rotated 180 degrees.

This small microphone is for a phone from Aliexpress. It picks up less noise than built-in microphones and accentuates your voice better.