Streaming is growing in popularity year after year, and it seems like everyone is jostling for fun. If you have strong gaming skills or just want to hang out and chat, there is a streaming community for you.
If you want to start your own stream, one of the most important things you can get is a quality microphone. A decent mic will sound better than any built-in microphones on your computer, and decent sound is pretty much a must-have for everyone to watch. However, not all mics are built the same and some are better for the casual streaming environment than others.
For the best experience, we recommend the Elgato Wave 3 because of its ease of use and streamer-first design.
To learn more about streaming setups, be sure to learn about the best webcams, gaming chairs, and gaming desks.
Best overall ranking: Elgato Wave 3
Why should you buy this: The Elgato Wave 3 is specially designed for podcasters and streamers looking to plug in and play.
Who it is for: Streamers who need a mic with a clear signal without too much setup time.
Why we chose Elgato Wave 3:There is a lot to love about the Elgato Wave 3, especially if you are not an audio expert. The Elgato Wave 3 was designed for podcasters and streamers, and it delivers a simplified cardioid mic experience. It doesn't have other pickup models, which might not be the best for people who want to play around with settings. But for someone looking for a mic that works, the Elgato Wave 3 is hard to beat. The Wave 3 also includes free software to mix audio while you stream.
The Elgato Wave 3 doesn't come with a pop filter, but you can choose a fairly inexpensive one. It doesn't have digital signal processing (DPS), but the Clipguard function does essentially the same thing by limiting the peaks of the signal. You can always turn this off if you want a clean signal.
For a simple and convenient mic that's been designed from the ground up for streamers, the Elgato Wave 3 is our top recommendation.
Finalist: Blue Yeti X
Why should you buy this: A great update to one of the best USB mics on the market.
Who it is for: Beginners looking for great sound and flexibility.
Why we chose the Blue Yeti X:If you close your eyes and imagine a streaming or podcasting mic, the Blue Yeti probably comes to mind. That's because this mic was everywhere and the Blue Yeti X is a worthy upgrade to one of the most popular mics out there.
The new model comes with a four-capacitor capsule array and four mic models, making it ideal for streamers recording in different environments or with other people. The Yeti X also doesn't have DSP, which is a plus if you're looking for an uncompressed signal.
Like its predecessor, the Yeti X is robust and functional. It also includes BlueVoice, recording software that allows users to apply DSP-like presets to audio. It's okay if you're new to it, but users will likely migrate to their own software.
As a mic, however, the Blue Yeti X is another great option for streamers looking for a bit of flexibility and clear sound without processing.
Best dynamic microphone: Rode Podcaster
Why should you buy this: The Podcaster is a high-end microphone with an excellent signal and without DPS.
Who it is for: Anyone looking for premium sound with some built-in quality control features.
Why we chose the Rode Podcaster:If you have a booming voice, a dynamic mic may be a better option for you. Dynamic mics are typically used for capturing loud instruments, but they're also better than condenser mics for broadcast or if you're planning on doing a lot of screaming. This is where the Rode Podcaster makes its place. This streaming mic captures superb highs, lows and mids for crisp, detailed sound.
The podcaster has a built-in pop filter, and while it's definitely best not to have one, you might want something more substantial to go with it. The Podcaster also doesn't come with a stand or stand, so you'll want to take that into account.
However, for those who need a dynamic mic rather than a condenser mic, it's hard to beat the Rode Podcaster.
Best for Features: HyperX Quadcast S
Why should you buy this: The HyperX Quadcast S has many additional features that will appeal to gamers and streamers.
Who it is for: Anyone wishing to show off their RGB microphone in streaming.
Why we chose the HyperX Quadcast S:The HyperX Quadcast S is designed for gamers first, which should come as no surprise from HyperX. It's most noticeable in programmable RGB, but it's also a high-quality mic that will appeal to streamers whether it's gaming or just talking. It has four recording models, a gain wheel, and support for USB-C charging.
The shock mount is only plastic which is a bit cheap compared to the rest of the package. But aside from the aesthetics, the Quadcast S is one of the best streaming mics you can get. It doesn't offer any flexibility for bitrates or sampling, so it's another option that is best suited for those looking for simple features.
However, the set is one of the most feature-rich mics available, and its simplicity and eye-catching RGB make it perfect for streamers.
Best compact option: Razer Seiren X
Why should you buy this: It's a solid, easy-to-use mic that doesn't take up much space.
Who it is for: Streamers who want solid sound without a giant mic in their face.
Why we picked the Razer Seiren X:If you want to start streaming but don't like the idea of a giant mic stuck to your face, the Razer Seiren X may be a good option for you. It's pretty tiny compared to the competition, but that doesn't sacrifice sound quality in the process. It's a great plug-and-play option, and its compact size makes it portable for streamers on the go.
The Razer Seiren X is particularly understated compared to other Razer products. It has a single LED button to mute the mic and a gain dial, and that's about it. The mic is also super cardioid, which basically means it has a smaller pickup range. This means that the Seiren X will only pick up what you want (your voice), without picking up background noise.
If you're on the go and might have some background noise, the Razer Seiren X is hands down the streaming mic for you.
Best premium option: Shure SM7B
Why should you buy this: You get what you pay for with the high-end SM7B from Shure, which offers one of the best vocal captures on the market.
Who it is for: Streamers with large budgets or experienced streamers looking to upgrade their sets.
Why we chose Shure SM7B:If you're starting to gain traction on your stream and need to take your streaming setup to the next level, the Shure SM7B is a mic you should consider. This is an XLR mic, so you'll also need to choose an audio interface if you don't already have one. It gives you a greatly improved sound profile compared to USB mics.
You might be spending a lot, but you get a lot with the Shure SM7B. It has a built-in pop filter to eliminate plosives, so you can speak freely no matter how close to the mic, and it has high quality internal components. The Shure SM7B is durable and built to last.
If you're ready to take your stream to the pro level, there's no better way to do it than with the Shure SM7B.
Best inexpensive option: Blue Snowball Ice
Why should you buy this: The Blue Snowball Ice is a simple and affordable option for anyone looking to get started.
Who it is for: Anyone who wants to start streaming on a budget.
Why we chose the Blue Snowball Ice:If you want to start your own stream but don't have the budget for other mics, you can start for as little as $ 50 with the Blue Snowball Ice. This mic has a unique shape, simple plug-and-play functionality, and no DSP to avoid compression. It also has an impressive pickup range, so you don't have to worry about getting lost if you stray a bit from it.
The Snowball Ice only has one cardioid sensor, but that's about all you need to get started. It also has a limited fishing range, so you should consider the height and positioning of the desk if and when you buy it.
However, the Snowball Ice delivers decent quality sound right out of the box. It's perfect for beginners, and it's relatively compact and easy to store.
All in all, this is enough experience to get you started and keep you going until you're ready to upgrade.
