In a hurry?

Here are our top 5 mics for YouTube:

Best Microphones for YouTube

1. SubZero SZC-500-USB

Great entry-level content-creation microphone

Key features:

• USB condenser microphone with easy plug-and-play setup
• Cardioid polar pattern reduces background noise for a focused sound
• Headphone output for direct monitoring
• Includes shock mount and USB cable

The SubZero SZC-500-USB is a very affordable USB microphone with a condenser capsule. Great for voiceover, voice calls, streaming, and podcasting, it’s very easy to set up, just plug in and start recording!

Thanks to its cardioid polar pattern, the SZC-500 rejects background noise, making it great for untreated rooms. Whether you’re podcasting or livestreaming, it’s ideal for live recording courtesy of its headphone output. The delay between your recording and monitoring without this feature can be distracting.

The SZC-500-USB comes with a shock mount to reduce handling noise and a USB cable for a fast and easy setup. If you need something quick and effective that still has high-quality sound to get you started on your YouTube journey, this USB mic is exactly what you’ve been looking for.

Shop now | SubZero SZC-500-USB Condenser Microphone

2. Shure MoveMic MV-ONE Wireless Lavalier System

Great for easy vlogging with a smartphone

Key features

• Compact wireless lavalier system
• Omnidirectional polar pattern
• Direct smartphone connectivity
• Compact, discreet design

The Shure MoveMic MV-ONE Wireless Lavalier System is a great ally for your audio recording needs, especially when it comes to YouTube. This compact, wireless lavalier microphone ensures that you’re equipped with professional-grade sound quality, whether you’re conducting interviews, creating videography, or covering live events.

If you are conducting interviews, however, you may find it more beneficial to use the MoveMic MV-TWO, a version with two channels, or the MoveMic Kit, which comes with a receiver for connecting to DSLR cameras and computers. The mic’s omnidirectional polar pattern is designed to pick up sound from all directions, guaranteeing that your recordings are crisp and clear, with every detail captured.

With wireless connectivity to smartphones, the mic is ideal for recording on the go without the hassle of wires. You can also delve into advanced control over the mic via the ShurePlus MOTIV apps. Additionally, the impressive battery life of up to 24 hours on a single charge means you can record for extended periods without worrying about power.

The build quality of the MoveMic MV-ONE is robust, ready to withstand the rigours of mobile journalism and outdoor shoots. Its IPX4 rating ensures it can handle rain, spills, and splashes, making it a reliable tool in a variety of conditions.

Shop now | Shure MoveMic MV-ONE Wireless Lavalier System

3. Lewitt RAY Microphone

Great for podcasting and livestreaming 

Key features:

• Innovative AURA voice focus technology
• Mute-by-distance functionality
• Dedicated on-mic mute button
• Studio-quality, record-ready sound

With its innovative features designed for the modern content creator, the Lewitt RAY Microphone is a great choice for YouTube professionals and enthusiasts alike. This microphone employs AURA technology, which adjusts audio levels and tone based on your distance, making it perfect for dynamic environments.

Whether you’re engaging with your audience up close or performing from a distance, the RAY ensures your voice remains the centre of attention without needing constant manual adjustments.

The ‘Mute by Distance’ feature is a game changer for seamless interaction during live sessions. Set your desired range, and the microphone manages your audio status, muting or unmuting as you move. This level of control is invaluable in live streaming or during interactive performances, where audio interruptions can distract viewers.

Better still, the Lewitt RAY simplifies the technical side of recording. A one-inch true condenser studio capsule ensures high-quality audio capture comparable to professional studios, ideal if you want great sound quality without the complex setups. This microphone not only enhances your recording capabilities but also fits seamlessly into any studio or home setup thanks to its straightforward, user-friendly design.

Shop now | Lewitt RAY Microphone

4. Audio Technica AT2020

Great for voiceover, streaming, and music

Key features:

• XLR condenser microphone provides a rich and full sound
• Low mass diaphragm design quickly responds to your voice for added detail
• Maximum SPL of 144 dB
• Includes stand adapter and soft carrying pouch for portability

The Audio Technica AT2020 is the first XLR microphone on our list. A highly popular entry point into XLR-based large diaphragm condensers, the AT2020 will need an audio interface to convert its signal into something your computer can receive and power it via phantom power.

This microphone is great for adding clarity to deep voices or body to your voice if it’s a little higher pitched.

While XLR microphones often come with fewer features and software than USB mics, they usually have more intricately designed capsules, like the AT2020’s low-mass diaphragm that ensures it sounds clear.

The low-mass diaphragm also really improves noise floor and the volumes the mic can handle before clipping, meaning you can shout, record closer to your mouth, or record instruments like guitars, drums, and amplifiers. Anything up to 144 dB will be picked up clearly if you set your gain right.

Its cardioid polar pattern helps reject background noise too, so the focus is on your voice.

The AT2020 comes with an adapter that provides compatibility with any stand you like, from boom or upright stands to studio arms for flexibility. Plus, there’s a soft carrying pouch if you need to travel with your mic.

Overall, the Audio Technica AT2020 is a great choice for voiceover, podcasting, and musical recording.

Shop now | Audio Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

5. SubZero DB30

Great for podcasting and voiceover

Key features:

• Dynamic XLR microphone for podcasting
• High-pass filter for cutting low-frequency rumble
• Presence boost switch boosts mids for extra clarity
• Hypercardioid polar pattern for excellent rejection of background noise

The SubZero DB30 is a dynamic XLR microphone designed for podcasting, offering a great, clear sound with controls to tailor it to the results you want. It starts with a flat frequency response but features a switchable high-pass filter and a mid boost to cut low-frequency mud and add presence.

A unique hypercardioid polar pattern provides an intimate, upfront quality that eliminates background noise significantly.

There’s an included shock mount which has a unique design that not only reduces handling noise and rumble but also screws on tightly to the microphone’s body for protection.

The DB30 also comes with a windshield and leatherette carrying bag.

Shop now | SubZero DB30 Dynamic Podcast Studio Microphone

6. Rode Podmic

Great for podcasting, streaming, and voiceover

Key features:

• Dynamic XLR microphone for podcasting
• Built-in pop filter reduces sibilance and plosives
• High sound pressure handling prevents distortion at high volumes
• Custom-tuned frequency response for classic broadcast sound

The Rode Podmic is an XLR microphone that provides the ideal sound for podcasting.

Clear, loud, and smooth, the Podmic features a built-in pop filter to reduce harsh plosive sounds and sudden noises. As it’s a dynamic microphone, it can handle huge sound pressures incredibly naturally, without the need for phantom power.

The Podmic boasts another large benefit of XLR microphones: a custom-tuned frequency response. This makes these kinds of microphones more characterful and unique, with a sound all of their own. Its cardioid polar pattern helps reduce background noise and put your voice up front and in focus.

This microphone features a robust metal design that makes it well-suited to handle the challenges of constant use. Designed to work with Rode’s Rodecaster Pro podcasting mixer, this setup will let you run a podcast, stream, or voiceover work when needed.

Shop now | Rode Podmic Dynamic Podcasting Microphone

7. Rode VideoMic-R

Great for interviews, vlogging, and videography

Key features:

• Portable shotgun condenser microphone ideal for vlogging and location recording
• Easily attaches to DSLR cameras or microphone stands with included shock mount
• Supercardioid polar pattern rejects unwanted background noise in challenging conditions
• High-pass filter and adjustable pad to tweak your sound

The Rode VideoMic-R is a shotgun microphone, the first – but not the last – that we’ll be covering here. Shotgun microphones are extremely common in videography and are often used in film and TV since they can be mounted onto a DSLR camera to record audio that syncs directly with the footage you capture.

The VideoMic-R is a condenser capsule, meaning it produces a detailed sound with an intentionally flat response for an accurate, naturalistic quality that puts your viewers in the moment with you.

Its supercardioid polar pattern adds more focus and directivity, only capturing what’s directly in front of it. This is a big reason why these kinds of microphones are so popular for location recording.

The VideoMic has a high-pass filter to cut low-end mud with two settings as well as a Pad with three steps to prevent distortion in louder environments.

An included shock mount then reduces handling noise from camera movement and can even be connected to a boom pole or microphone stand.

The VideoMic-R is great for vlogging, travel content, interviews, sketches, and any other location recording.

Shop now | Rode VideoMic-R Shotgun Condenser Microphone with Rycote Suspension

8. Focusrite Vocaster DM14v

Great for podcasting and voiceover

Key features:

• Dynamic XLR microphone for podcasting
• Swivel joint for easy setup and positioning on microphone stands or studio arms
• Built-in pop filter for smooth, natural sound
• Attached shock mount always reduces handling noise and rumble through stands or desks

The Focusrite Vocaster DM14v is a dynamic XLR microphone designed specifically for podcasting. Recreating the classic broadcast sound with a thick low end and upfront mids, the Vocaster offers a warm, clear sound that translates well to all kinds of spoken word applications.

The Vocaster has built-in features that typically come as included accessories with microphones of its type. Its built-in windshield reduces plosives and sibilance, and similarly, a built-in shock mount prevents rumble and handling noise.

There’s also a swivel joint that makes positioning the mic comfortable and easy, especially when attaching to boom stands and studio arms.

Great for podcasting and voiceover recording, the DM14v can handle even the most animated of speakers.

Shop now | Focusrite Vocaster DM14v Dynamic Microphone

9. Sennheiser MKE 400

Great for interviews, vlogging, and filmography

Key features:

• Compact shotgun condenser microphone ideal for vlogging and filmmaking
• Shock mount reduces handling noise and attaches to stands, cameras, and smartphones
• Three-stage gain sensitivity switch lets you adjust your volume for any source or setting
• Headphone monitoring output for listening while recording

The Sennheiser MKE 400 is a compact shotgun microphone. Owing to its small size, supercardioid directivity, and easy mounting, this microphone is great for fixing onto cameras. Whether you use your phone or a DSLR camera to record, the MKE 400 is great for all kinds of location recording.

The MKE 400 has an integrated windscreen and shock absorption to reduce weather noise, handling noise, and plosives, offering clarity while recording outdoors or in other challenging conditions. The MKE 400 also provides a three-stage gain sensitivity switch to adjust your volume for whatever and wherever you’re recording.

There’s also an onboard headphone monitoring output and a low-cut filter to reduce low-frequency mud. This makes it ideal for a focused and clear vocal sound in uncontrolled spaces.

Ideal for vlogging, filmmaking, and streaming outdoors, the MKE 400 is a very versatile and portable mic for facing some unique challenges. And it can be used indoors, mounted above your computer monitor or TV for more standard voiceover and indoor streaming applications too.

Shop now | Sennheiser MKE 400 Camera Microphone

10. Shure MV7+

Great for podcasting, interviews, and streaming

Key features:

• Dynamic USB and XLR microphone for podcasting and streaming
• Voice Isolation Technology ensures that only vocals are heard in absolute clarity
• App control via Shure MOTIV app provides access to the Digital Popper Stopper plosive removal effect
• Record via USB and XLR outputs simultaneously

The Shure MV7+ is a combination USB and XLR microphone that’s optimised for podcasting and voiceover.

Shure designed the MV7+ with untreated rooms in mind, providing Voice Isolation Technology to reduce background noise and increase clarity. The MV7+ also has an automatic gain mode that adjusts its levels to your distance from the mic, so your voice remains consistent.

Taking heritage from the legendary SM7B, the MV7+ is a step up from the MV7, a modern standard in vocal microphones with the convenience of USB and additional features. It has a frequency response of 50 Hz to 16,000 Hz, with a sound that’s warm, clear, and attention-grabbing. And not only does it have both USB and XLR connectivity, but the MV7+ lets you record both simultaneously!

Control via the Shure MOTIV app. You can adjust the processing on the USB output and add effects like compression to get that upfront radio presenter sound for podcasts, limiting to prevent distortion no matter how loud you get, and EQ to bring out all the character in your voice. You also get access to the Digital Popper Stopper plosive removal effect, a real-time Denoiser, and three types of reverb via this app.

Plus, a headphone output for direct monitoring, mute button, gain, and monitor mix controls let you really tweak how you use this microphone.

Shop now | Shure MV7+ USB/XLR Podcast Microphone

11. Rode NT1 5th Gen

Great for voiceover, podcasting, and music

Key features:

• Combination XLR and USB microphone
• High-quality 32-bit recording on USB output helps prevent clipping, even with gain set too high
• High-grade 192 kHz AD/DA converters and Revolution preamp for great sound fidelity
• DSP effects like compression, high-pass filtering, noise gate, and exciter add character

A recent edition of a modern standard, the Rode NT1 5th Gen builds on the success of Rode’s previous offerings.

The NT1 and NT1-A have found themselves in home studios and content creation setups for people on a budget ever since their release. In particular, the NT1 5th Gen provides pretty much the same character as the previous NT1, but with a few extra modern benefits.

Combining USB-C and XLR connectivity, the NT1 5th Gen features high-quality 32-bit recording on its USB output, which allows you to utterly circumvent distortion.

With extremely low self-noise thanks to gold sputtering within its condenser capsule, this cardioid mic provides detail and clarity. Also within the guts of the NT1 5th Gen are high-resolution 192 kHz analogue-to-digital converters and a Revolution preamp, giving you incredible sound quality.

Built-in DSP effects let you tweak your voice recording with compression, high-pass filtering, a noise gate, and some extra enhancement effects.

An excellent choice for all kinds of studio recording, the NT1 5th Gen’s 32-bit recording gives you assurance on distortion-free recording, effects to tweak and refine your sound, and dual connectivity to get you set up and recording however you prefer.

Shop now | Rode NT1 5th Gen XLR and USB-C Studio Microphone

12. Sennheiser EW-DP Wireless Systems

Great for videography and location recording

Key features:

• Digital UHF wireless system for running audio on-camera
• Great for broadcasting, content, interviews, film, and TV
• Rechargeable lithium-ion battery with 12 hours of battery life
• Range of sets offering different microphones for your needs

The Sennheiser EW-DP series wireless systems are a brand-new series of wireless audio systems designed especially for content creation and interviews. This range offers four different sets with largely the same features, which are perfect for adapting to what you want out of your content and recordings. These systems are minimal, compact, and easy to operate.

Sennheiser have built a Smart Notifications feature into these systems that will notify you when things go wrong, allowing you to manage clipping, interference, and connection between the transmitter and receiver. Charging via USB-C makes running these systems extremely convenient and easy to use while on the go, and Bluetooth app control allows you to control, set up, and monitor your audio on any iOS or Android-equipped smartphones and tablets.

The other major development in these wireless systems is an automatic frequency management system that avoids interference and helps you find a clear channel. The EW-DP systems offer four different sets, using either the e835 handheld microphone, the ME2 omnidirectional lavalier microphone, or the ME4 cardioid lavalier microphone, letting you get the wireless audio you want for your content.

Shop now | Sennheiser EW-DP Wireless Systems

13. Shure SM7B

Great for voiceover, streaming, podcasting, and music

Key features:

• Studio-grade dynamic XLR microphone for all kinds of vocals
• Sounds excellent even in untreated spaces
• Switchable high-pass filter and presence boost to adjust your sound
• Humbucking coil reduces electrical noise for total clarity

The Shure SM7B is a verifiable legend of not just podcasting (it’s used by likes of Marc Maron, Anna Faris, and Dax Shepard) but also professional musical recording, used by Arctic Monkeys, Bob Dylan, Metallica, and Green Day. In fact, it’s a common standard for metal vocalists.

This dynamic XLR microphone is an evolution of Shure’s sound for the modern day, taking the defined sound of the SM58 and adding crisper highs and a warmer low-end.

So, what makes the SM7B so popular? Its sound plays a huge part. It’s able to get that broadcast sound in an instant and handle extremely high sound pressures, so it’s easy to prevent distorted recordings.

It’s also great at rejecting unwanted background noise between its large, thick foam pop filter, cardioid polar pattern, and capsule design. If you’re recording in an untreated room, it’ll sound just as good as in a fully treated vocal booth in a high-end studio.

The SM7B also offers a few controls to help clean up your sound, like a high-pass filter, presence boost, and humbucking coil to reduce all other kinds of noise. A built-in shock mount reduces rumble throughout your microphone arm or desk too. There’s a reason the SM7B has become one of the most popular vocal microphones going for all applications.

For an easier and quicker video setup, we would recommend the Shure SM7dB.

This mic has the same iconic SM7B sound but with a built-in preamp, which is powered by the phantom power from your audio interface. The Shure SM7dB is great if you want to focus more on your video and less on your set up.

Shop now | Shure SM7B Dynamic Studio Microphone

Shop now | Shure SM7dB Active Dynamic Microphone

14. Electro-Voice RE20

Great for voiceover, podcasting, streaming, and music

Key features:

• Dynamic XLR microphone seen in studio recordings all over the world
• Variable-D capsule design reduces proximity effect
• Acoustalloy diaphragm design provides high-quality sound with minimal distortion
• Switchable high-pass filter and humbucking coil to prevent noise

The Electro-Voice RE20 is a dynamic XLR microphone with a similar reputation to the SM7B, a recording studio workhorse that shines on drums, bass amps, and vocals. From these popular uses, we can gather that the RE20 has a very deep, warm sound with a very clear low end.

This mic features a cardioid pickup pattern to add the presence and clarity you almost always want for speech, with an internal pop shield to deal with plosives.

The RE20 is an extremely rugged microphone with reliable build quality. It also features a unique Variable-D capsule, which reduces proximity effect, meaning you can get as close to the microphone as you want without creating a distorted low-frequency boom.

The mic’s capsule design also features an Acoustalloy diaphragm, making for an extremely lightweight and responsive pickup that won’t distort or vary with loudness.

The RE20 also has a switchable high-pass filter and humbucking coil to reduce low-frequency rumble and electrical noise.

Used by vocalists like Thom Yorke, Amy Winehouse, and Paul McCartney, and all kinds of popular podcasters, YouTubers, streamers, and radio presenters, it’s easy to see why the Electro-Voice RE20 is one of the best options out there for content creation and music alike.

Shop now | Electro-Voice RE20 Dynamic Cardioid Microphone

What makes a good microphone for YouTube?

When shopping for a YouTube mic, first consider what content you want to create with the microphone and where and how you’ll use it.

Do you want to record outdoors under potentially noisy or ever-changing conditions? How are the acoustics in the place you’re recording? Are you going to be in your acoustically treated content studio or an untreated bedroom?

Polar patterns are an extremely important element.

Cardioid is great for single-source use, which makes it great for voiceover, podcasting, and streaming.

Omnidirectional is good for capturing a space or multiple people at once, so if you’re running a roundtable format, have a few guests on your stream, or are conducting interviews – especially with more than two people – this might be what you want.

Figure eight picks up evenly from the front and side, great for interviews or streaming with a friend. Stronger patterns like supercardioid or hypercardioid are very focused, which makes them better at handling challenging conditions.

Dynamic mics are great for picking up high sound pressures. Given how much the human voice can vary in volume, this makes them great for podcasting and streaming in particular as it’s harder for them to distort if you don’t set your levels right. They also perform well in untreated spaces since they have a lower sensitivity and won’t pick up unwanted reflections as much.

Condensers have a sparkle and detail that dynamic mics can’t always match. So, for voiceover, interviews, and less animated podcasting, these might be your choice if you’re after a professional high-frequency sheen.

You should also consider the proximity effect, which creates more low-frequency build-up as you get close to the mic. If you want something close, it’s best to go with a mic that includes a pop filter and maybe a pad switch to help prevent distortion or harshness.

FAQs

What microphone is best for YouTube voiceover?

The best microphones for voiceover in YouTube videos are condenser microphones. Options like the Rode NT1 5th Gen and HyperX ProCast will give you a full, detailed voiceover quality with deep lows and smooth high frequencies. Condensers like these are best due to their increased sensitivity.

Should I get a microphone for YouTube content?

If you’re looking to create professional, high-quality content to compete on platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and podcast platforms like Spotify, it’s absolutely worth investing in the best quality microphone you can afford. There are many great options depending on the content you want to make such as USB microphones like the Rode NT1 5th Gen, XLR microphones like the Electro-Voice RE20, and shotgun microphones like the Sennheiser MKE 400. USB microphones are convenient, XLR microphones have a premium sound quality, and shotgun microphones are great for recording on-the-go vlogs.

What is the best budget mic for YouTube?

Top YouTube microphones under £120:

• SubZero SZC-500-USB
• Lewitt RAY
• Audio Technica AT2020
• Rode VideoMic-R

What microphone do YouTube gamers use?

The Shure SM7B is an extremely popular microphone for gamers streaming to YouTube. It’s a popular choice for streaming, podcasts, and even professional music recording and its sound is instantly recogniseable. For those on a tighter budget, the Shure MV7+ takes a lot of the same sound characteristics and adds a USB output to let you connect directly to your computer.

Final thoughts

There are a lot of different elements that go into a good microphone, but as our picks of the best microphones for YouTube show, there’s no beating sound quality and consistency above anything else.

Whilst you can have microphones with plenty of handy features like USB connectivity, built-in effects, and app control, something with tried-and-tested sound quality is always the best way to get you there. If you like the sound of it and it fits the kind of content you want to make and where you want to make it, it’s the right microphone for you.