2022-10-23
Nowadays, it is difficult for any computer user to do without a microphone. He may need it for remote work or study. But spending a lot of money on a device is not possible for everyone. The choice will be facilitated by our top budget microphones. By the way, many models are also suitable for streamers.
Main types of microphones
Devices can be dynamic or condenser. The first type is a small loudspeaker. It is reliable, inexpensive but the sound quality leaves much to be desired. In turn, microphones of the second type transform sound with special condensers. They transmit a voice better, but they are fastidious to environmental conditions, have higher price and require additional phantom power.
For streaming, games and online conferences it is most convenient to use USB-microphone, as it has all the necessary amplifiers and audio card, so you do not have to buy anything. The settings are very simple and can be managed even by an inexperienced user. In addition all controls and indicators are located on the device itself, which is also very convenient.
Upper budget segment
Defender MIC-111
- Purpose: PC
- Type: capacitor
- Pinector: mini jack 3.5 mm
- Emission diagram: circular
Price: from 250 rubles
The cheapest microphone for the computer in the selection - Defender MIC-111. Suitable undemanding users who communicate only in conferences in Skype or Zoom. The type of device is condenser. It catches the sound well from all directions due to the circular radiation pattern. The enclosure features a simple flexible leg design, which can be adjusted in direction and shape for your personal comfort.
The device weighs only 100 grams and is very compact, so it fits into those who have very little space on their desk. The sound, of course, is not very well transmitted: the price is still very low. However, for communication of this quality is enough. The sensitivity is -54 dB, and the frequency range is from 20 to 13000 Hz. The cable has a length of one and a half meters. According to the reviews, it is not too reliable due to its thinness, it wears out quickly. Moreover there is no possibility to mute the microphone itself if you need it.
Advantages:
- Very low price.
- Compact.
- Fit for messenger conversations.
- Adjustable leg.
- Easy connection.
Disadvantages:
- Long-lasting cable.
- You cannot mute the sound on the unit itself.
SVEN MK-490
- Purpose: to the computer
- Type: electronic
- Pinch: mini jack 3.5 mm
- Emission pattern: circular
Price: from 505 rubles
Inexpensive microphone for PC, which is popular among gamers. If your budget is limited, this is the best option. The device is made of strong and durable plastic, weighs a little more than 150 grams and is very compact.
Microphone resistance is 32 Ohm, the cable length reaches 2.4 meters and the frequency range is between 30-16000 Hz. A comfortable footpeg is included so that no discomfort is experienced during use. In addition, there is a power on and off button on the body.
The main drawback of the device is the lack of a normal noise reduction. During communication or recording extraneous noises are often noticeable. Nevertheless, this model in its price category is one of the best. It is quite suitable for instant messenger conferences or team chats.
Advantages:
- Comfortable stand.
- Compact and lightweight.
- Long cable.
- Inclusion button on the device.
- Low price.
Disadvantages:
- Best sensitivity.
- Lack of noise reduction.
Trust GXT 239 Nepa
- Purpose: to computer, for streaming
- Type: capacitor
- Socket: mini jack 3.5 mm
- Emission diagram: circular
Price: from 980 rubles
Third place - Trust GXT 239 Nepa. The model is more suitable for regular gamers who just need a connection in the games. The device has an interesting and thoughtful design, and in the center of the body is a button that can be used to turn on or off the power. The microphone itself is attached to the boom, which allows you to adjust its tilt. The weight of the device is not too heavy - it weighs about 165 grams. The device can be taken with you if necessary.
Connection is fast and no special drivers are needed. The sensitivity is -38 dB, frequency range is from 50 to 10000 Hz. The cable length is 1.7 meters. It's worth mentioning that the wire is very thin, so you should be careful with it as it is quite easy to damage it.
The sound quality of the device is acceptable, considering its price. For a perfect transmission one needs to achieve absolute silence and not to bring the microphone too close to the mouth.
Advantages:
- Interesting design.
- One of the most budget and quality options.
- The housing has an on/off key.
- Mic socket can be adjusted to the individual needs.
Disadvantages:
- The cable is thin and not reliable.
JBL Quantum 100
- Purpose: Computer, streaming, gaming
- Type: -
- Pinch: mini jack 3.5 mm combo
- Emission pattern: xidirectional (circular)
Price: from 1 499 rubles
Quantum 100 - budget full-size headphones with a microphone (removable) from a well-known brand JBL. Frequency range is standard for most devices of this type: from 20 to 20000 Hz. The manufacturer emphasizes that the headset is more suitable for gaming, so the sound is appropriate with minimal delays. The sensitivity is 96 dB and impedance is 32 ohms. On consoles, the sound will be very quiet and muffled.
Microphone is very good, with a sensitivity of -42dB and a circular directional pattern. According to user reviews, it transmits sound cleanly and loudly, and communicating in games with teammates is possible without problems. If necessary, it can be turned off with a special button on the headphones (or adjust the volume). The ear cushions have memory effect and do not squeeze the ears or cause other unpleasant feelings.
Advantages:
- The sound is not bad.
- The microphone is detachable.
- Convenient sound and microphone mute buttons.
- The ear cushions do not press on the ears.
Disadvantages:
- The cable is not very long (only 1.2 meters).
SVEN AP-G988MV
- Purpose: for PC, streaming, games
- Type: -
- Pinch: mini jack 3.5 mm (X2)
- Emission pattern: directional
Price: from 1 729 rubles
Even one gaming version, but to call it a complete accessory for gamers all the same impossible because of the microphone. The cord is not very long (1.2 meters), but you can easily connect it to a computer or even a phone/tablet, as well as use a special adapter (to "Mic" and "Headphones"), which is included. By the way, the wires are protected by a braid, which greatly extends their lifespan.
The headphones fit well on your head. The sensitivity is 108 dB, but there are problems with the frequencies: the low and high sounds are a little bit overdone and the middle part leaves much to be desired. However, the manufacturer has worked well on noise isolation: you will not hear even the construction sounds outside your window.
Frequency range is in the range from 30 to 16000 Hz and microphone sensitivity is -58 dB. If necessary, the microphone can be muted with the on/off button on the headphone. The sound is not too bad, considering the budget segment.
Advantages:
- Fit on your head.
- You have the volume adjustment and the power button.
- The microphone provides very good sound.
- The cord is braided.
Disadvantages:
- If your ears are big the earphones will press on them.
Ritmix RDM-169
- Purpose: for studio, vocal/streaming
- Type: condenser
- Socket: USB Type-B
- Radiode: cardioid
Price: from 2,060 rubles
RDM-169 is a good condenser model from Ritmix, pleasing with high sound quality. Despite the low cost, the device has a universal purpose, does not distort the voice of extraneous noises and croaks. The microphone allows you to communicate on the Internet and make sound recordings in a professional studio.
In order to attach the device uses the pantograph, which is included in the package. The user can adjust the position of the microphone both in height and tilt angle by using the pantograph. Additionally, the package contains a cable, pop-filter and wind protection. The sensitivity is -42 dB and the frequency range is between 30 Hz and 20,000 Hz.
The 1.5 meter long cable might be a little short for some. There are no problems with connection, even an inexperienced user can understand it. The build quality, fasteners are reliable. Considering the price this is the ideal budget microphone.
Advantages:
- High quality sound transmission.
- Comfortable stand.
- No connection problem.
Disadvantages:
- Short wire.
Average of available
Sennheiser PC 8 USB
- Purpose: to computer, streaming, games
- Type: -
- Socket: USB Type-B
- Emission pattern: circular
Price: from 2,499 rubles
In PC users, this manufacturer's products are very popular. The model from Sennheiser has a decent and democratic price tag and is compact. The weight is extremely low: only 84 grams. This is a surprising weight for such a design and therefore the headphones will not weigh on your head. The earhook is sliding and easily adjustable. The impedance is 32 ohms, the sensitivity is -40dB, and the frequency range is 90 to 15000 Hz. According to reviews, no extraneous sounds during communication are not heard by the interlocutors. Therefore, the noise modulation here works quite well.
Worth mentioning is that the shape of the headband is specific and some might not like it because of the strong pressure on the temples. Though, it can be argued, taking into account the weight of the device. The cable length is 2 meters, which is enough in most cases. If you would like to have good quality earphones with microphone and USB, you should definitely consider this model.
Features:
- Nice noise reduction.
- A very lightweight design.
- High quality sound transmission - applies to both earphones and microphone.
- No pressure on ears.
Disadvantages:
- Big USB connector - not always suitable for notebooks.
BEHRINGER C-1U
- Purpose: concerts, streaming (universal)
- Type: capacitor
- Socket: USB Type-B
- Radiode: cardioid
Price: from 2,909 rubles
Behringer C-1U is a popular semi-professional model that attracts attention with the highest sound recording quality. Especially popular among musicians who use it as an auxiliary or supplementary microphone. The gold-plated XLR connector provides a stable, clean signal and a die-cast chassis for a long service life of 5 years or more.
Frequency range: 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. It is worth noting that it is impossible to call this device perfect because it is rather quiet. You will have to install special software and pay more attention to sound processing. There is also a problem with noise suppression. The microphone will be suitable for both streaming and recording music. Alternatively you may use it to communicate in games.
Advantages:
- Nice quality sound.
- No connectivity problems.
- Durable metal housing.
- Full signal transmission.
Disadvantages:
- You have to fiddle with the sound processing in the recording.
- Difficult to find a suitable holder.
Trust GXT 232 Mantis
- Purpose: streaming, podcasts, TV
- Type: capacitor
- Socket: USB Type-B
- Emission pattern: circular
Price: from 2,950 rubles
A universal purpose model: suitable for podcasts, radio, TV. Popular also among streamers. You can voice cartoons or movies, as the sound quality is excellent. The connection is made via USB and the device detects the device instantly. No additional installation is required.
According to the reviews the microphone suppresses extraneous noises - a pop filter is used for this. In addition, the damping suspension enhances the recording quality. The frequency range is from 50 to 16000 Hz. The cable length is 1.5 meters.
The device comes with a tripod stand with which you can securely fix the device on the table. Additionally the manufacturer has put a "spider" hanger, a sticker and a manual in the box. For this price category this is not bad.
Features:
- Compactness.
- Cost/ quality ratio.
- Cable in the braid.
- High quality sound.
- Completeness.
- No connectivity problems.
Disadvantages:
- No microphone mute button.
Maono AU-A04T
- Purpose: studio/for computer (streaming, podcasts, TV)
- Type: capacitor
- Pinch: USB Type-B
- Emission pattern: cardioid
Price: from 3,660 rubles
Maono AU-A04T is a popular model suitable for novice musicians or bloggers. Also, it is often used by streamers and broadcasters. In the studio work she also demanded, because it allows you to work professionally with the voice (for this microphone must be connected to additional power). It comes with a tripod, pop filter, wind protection, shock mount and a cable to connect it to your PC.
Sensitivity is -38 dB. The frequency range is from 30 to 160,000 Hz. The cable is quite long: 2.5 meters. From the minuses users allocate too high sensitivity, from which you can get rid of with special programs, as well as a very fragile construction. But these can be forgotten since the equipment and the price are impressive: Simply buy, plug and play.
Advantages:
- Qualitative sound.
- Assembly.
- Good value for money.
- Assembly quality.
Disadvantages:
- No off button and volume control.
- Increased sensitivity.
- Very "soft" design.
Trust GXT 242 Lance
- Purpose: Universal
- Type: capacitor
- Socket: USB Type-B
- Radio diagram: cardioid
Price: from 3,990 rubles
A great gaming microphone that has a very impressive package. In the package you can find not only a pop filter, but also a quality stand, suspension HM31, a cable to connect to a computer, a sticker, as well as detailed instructions. A tripod can be used to easily secure the device to a table so that it does not cause discomfort during use. A "spider-type" shockmount prevents unnecessary vibrations.
The base is made of plastic but metal inserts are available. For its price category the microphone has good characteristics: the frequency range is between 20-20000 Hz, the sensitivity is -45 dB. There is a function of damping of unnecessary noise, so the voice is transmitted clearly. The model is best suited for streaming or podcasts with one person. The cable length is 1.8 meters.
Advantages:
- Excellent configuration.
- Interesting design.
- High quality voice transmission.
- Good noise reduction.
- Acceptable price.
Disadvantages:
- You need to bring the unit as close as possible to the sound source for recording.
Fifine K670
- Purpose: universal
- Type: capacitor
- Socket: USB Type-B, headphone output
- Radiode: cardioid
Price: from 4,350 rubles
On the 12th line sits an inexpensive microphone from Fifine, which is suitable for streaming or recording yearsplaying. The model is unidirectional type, quality sound transmits and neutralizes unnecessary noise. Comes with a handy stand with mounts. You can adjust the height for more convenient use of the device. Earphone jack 3.5mm.
The microphone is well constructed: The base is made of metal and the cover is rubberized for extra durability. The device will not "ride" on your desk or scratch it. A nice bonus is the bright backlight, which looks gorgeous in the dark. Microphone sensitivity -46 dB, frequency range - from 50 to 15000 Hz. Weight about 700 grams.
Advantages:
- Fast connection.
- He has headphone jack.
- Metal housing.
- Convenient stand that can be adjusted in height.
- Nice backlighting.
- Built-in audio card.
Disadvantages:
- The packaging leaves much to be desired.
Inexpensive premium microphones
Maono AU-PM422
- Application: any kind (vocals, streaming, podcasts, conferences, etc.)
- Type: condenser
- Socket: USB Type-B, headphone output
- Earphone output: Cardioid
Price: from 7 890 rubles
The last three are the Chinese condenser microphone AU-PM422 from Maono. Appointment it is universal: suitable for communication in Skype, the sound of the video, podcasts or games. The frequency range is from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz and the wire is rather long at 2.5 meters. If you need to urgently disconnect the device, it is enough to press the special touch button on the housing. The package is impressive: in the box you can find pantograph, pop-filter and wind protection.
Otherwise, the device looks very budgetary. The mounts are not the most reliable and according to reviews they deteriorate quickly. But they can be easily replaced by other ones. There are no other significant drawbacks in the technique. Sensitivity can be adjusted if necessary, and if there are noises on the recording, they can be easily removed with extraneous programs. It is enough to adjust the settings before the first use, then no problems occur.
Advantages :
- Good sound transmission.
- High sensitivity.
- Microphone can be muted by the button on the housing.
- Long cable.
Disadvantages:
- Not the best quality holder.
Samson C01U Pro
- Purpose: universal
- Type: capacitor
- Socket: USB Type-B, headphone output
- Radiogram: supercardioid
Price: from 8,290 rubles
One of the best condenser options for streamers or letsplayers. Suitable for both computer and laptop. Universal model shows good price/quality ratio. The price starts from 8300 thousand rubles, but you can find a cheaper model on AliExpress. If necessary, the user will be able to connect headphones for direct monitoring. Detected by any system.
The reviews indicate that the voice of the device transmits cleanly, extraneous noise and rattling is not available. The microphone is also suitable for music beginners. Due to the non-standard directional diagram a strong noise isolation and low sensitivity to acoustics in the room can be noted here.
The sensitivity of the device -40 dB, frequency range - from 20 to 18000 Hz. The cable is 1.5m long and the housing is made of durable and quality materials, therefore the device will last long.
Advantages:
- High quality sound transmission.
- Universal.
- Capable of connection to any device (including Apple).
- Complete.
- Long life.
Disadvantages:
- No off button on case.
- Windows 10 bugs may occur.
AKG Lyra (C44-USB)
- Purpose: universal
- Type: capacitor
- Socket: USB Type-B, headphone output
- Radiating diagram: switchable
Price: from 8,490 rubles
The Lyra C44, a condenser microphone produced by the Austrian firm AKG, completes the selection. In the delivery set not only the USB cable, but also the instructions for use and the muff for fixing the device on stands.
The appearance of the device is unusual, in the style of retro. The metallic mesh looks impressive, which is important for those who put the microphone in the frame while recording vlogs. Its base is made of aluminum. The device weighs a lot, about one kilogram, so it won't slide on the table. If necessary, it can be removed from the stand and mounted on a pantograph or a "crane". The cable length is 2 meters.
The device connects easily to devices with various operating systems including Android and iOS. Due to Plug and Play function there is no need to worry about extra software as it uses the built in computer drivers.
Advantages:
- Interesting design.
- Multiple colors to choose from.
- It is possible to clip the microphone to the stands.
- It provides high quality sound recording.
Disadvantages:
- None. <12
