After getting the adequate laptop, green screen, and other parts of your streaming equipment, it’s time to look for the right microphone.
As my personal favorite, I picked Rode NT-USB Microphone because of the price-quality ratio it offers, its simplicity, and overall performance.
In this article, I am going to show you a list of the best budget streaming mics that I have found based on profound research.
QUICK OVERVIEW: Best Budget Microphone for Streaming
 | Best Choice Rode NT-USB
| |
 | Blue Yeti Nano
| |
 | Razer Seiren X
|
Table of Contents
Best Budget Microphone for Streaming
Reviews
Budget mics usually go around the price of under 150$, while the higher-end ones could cost up to 300$.
If you are a beginner at streaming, you are probably looking for one that isn’t so expensive but can get the job done. That’s exactly what the models on my list below will provide you with.
1. Rode NT-USB Microphone
Overall Best Cheap Microphone
Stefan’s Take:
I personally use this mic and I love it! It’s a simple plug-and-play mic, the quality is amazing, the sensitivity is fairly decent, and it’s basically not only great for streaming, but for podcasting and shooting Youtube videos. We use the same mic for shooting our videos! So, undoubtedly it’s my favorite.
| Quality | 10 |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity | 9 |
| Easy to Use | 9 |
| For Streaming? | 10 |
The Rode NT-USB mic for streaming is on the higher end of the budget price range, but it’s also one of the best and most efficient ones for streaming.
It’s very professional and a lot of popular streamers use it as well. It looks like a high-end studio microphone while having more than a reasonable price tag.
The sound quality is outstanding and your Twitch stream viewers will be able to hear you loud and clear. The free pop shield that goes with it doesn’t harm either.
Who is it good for
Even a huge number of professional streamers find this mic very suitable for their needs to the outstanding price-quality ratio.
Also, if you are planning on furthering your hobbies outside of streaming, then, I think, you won’t make a mistake with this model.
If you have a side gig such as Youtube streaming or making podcasts, this mic can do it all, in fact, it’s considered a superstar product among popular podcasters.
This model includes a free pop-filter that works great if you use rough sounds and need to soothe them out, like a harsh p, t, or b.
Key features
It’s fairly simple to operate, just find the USB port where you will plug it in and begin recording immediately.
The mic is armed with a mix control that develops a clear distinction between one’s voice and the sounds coming out of the game you are playing.
It has only the cardioid polar pattern and a couple of different design choices such as smooth dials. The frequency response rate is also very respectable.
Overall, it’s a Twitch streaming microphone for streamers on any level who are looking to satisfy their audience with clear audio.
Pros
- Professional look
- Great sound quality
- Free pop filter
Cons
- Very sensitive
2. Blue Yeti Nano
Best Blue Yeti Alternative
Stefan’s Take:
What I liked about this mic is the fact that it practically offers similar features to Blue Yeti. Using it feels like you have a Blue Yeti in a mini version, which is great because I don’t really have the large desk.
Blue Sherpa software is also relatively simple to set up and use, which is another plus.
I would say go for this one if you really want a Blue Yeti mic but can’t afford it right now, since Nano is a bit cheaper option.
| Quality | 9 |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity | 9 |
| Easy to Use | 9 |
| For Streaming? | 10 |
One of the best microphones for streaming on my list and one of the most popular budget microphones among streamers is the Blue Yeti Nano model.
For a product that costs under 100$ the sound quality is truly remarkable. The Blue Yeti Nano covers almost all of the great features that Blue Yeti offers and packs it in a small and lightweight design.
Who is it good for
A major part of the Twitch streaming community uses this model and has very positive feedback.
This Twitch microphone can be inserted into almost any mic stand so you won’t have to worry about that adding up.
Another reason it’s so popular is that most new streamers tend to look for a low-end to mid-end quality kind of mic, and all roads lead to this baby.
Key features
The small size and lightweight metal build of this microphone make it ideal for streamers who have to transport their equipment more frequently.
The cardioid and omnidirectional pattern ensures great recording quality, it’s so outstanding that it has surpassed people’s expectations once it came out.
This mic also gives out a very elegant and professional look to your streaming studio.
The Blue Sherpa software controls on this device are also pretty handy, and you should be able to get the hang of it rather quickly.
The form factor is also huge and it’s a lot less obtrusive and much easier to store.
This cheap streaming microphone under 100 dollars is considered a smaller sibling to the Blue Yeti mic.
The biggest difference is in the recording sample rates and a few more features, but for 30% less money it’s definitely worth considering this option.
Pros
- Very small and light
- Simple to use
- Nice sound quality
Cons
- Several software complaints
3. Razer Seiren X
Best Audio Quality
Stefan’s Take:
One of the biggest advantages of this mic is the wide frequency response range. It also comes with the Super Cardioid pickup pattern that can record any audio at a razor-sharp level.
There are a few downsides to this model, very similar to the Blue Yeti Nano model. Despite the shock mount, some background noise could still be heard.
This can be somewhat irritating, especially if you are used to smashing keys while playing, or your general play style includes a lot of key smashing, as I used in some Street Fighter iterations.
| Quality | 9 |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity | 9 |
| Easy to Use | 9 |
| For Streaming? | 9 |
This microphone is about half the size of the original Seiren mic design so it can fit on any small desk that streamers may use.
Despite its size, it offers just as much audio quality. It’s a cheap streaming mic that newbie streamers find very suitable.
Who is it good for
This cheap streaming microphone is good for any new Twitch streamer. It has an insanely high-frequency response range that can make any sound or noise from the game heard crystal clear.
The microphone is great when it comes to filtering unwanted background noises and it also includes a built-in shock mount to decrease vibrations.
It has a very sleek and non-obstructive design so you won’t have to worry about it fitting into your gaming setup. Your audience will even be able to see more of you.
Key features
This mic comes with a shock mount built into it that can successfully swallow any distracting noises.
There is both a single volume control button and a mute button. Both are on the front side of the device which contributes to the cool aesthetic of this model.
But with a little fidgeting and editing, you should be able to resolve this problem to a usable level.
Overall, this is one of the best microphones for Twitch because it can offer outstanding audio quality and numerous other features and all that for a more than reasonable price.
Pros
- Affordable
- Wide frequency response range
- Portable
Cons
- Complaints about loud background noises
4. Razer Seiren Mini
Best for Small Streamers
Stefan’s Take:
Razer Seiren Mini might be shorter on features compared to some other mics on the list, but it’s very cheap and easy to operate for newbie Twitch streamers, which is why I included it here.
On top of all that, it also has a very decent sound quality considering the price, so your viewers won’t have to deal with audio lags.
Overall, this isn’t the greatest mic you will ever see, but if you want a cheap model you can use during Twitch streams, then I assure you it will do the job.
| Quality | 8.5 |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity | 9 |
| Easy to Use | 9 |
| For Streaming? | 8.5 |
Below the 50$ price, there aren’t many quality mics you can pick out, and this one would probably take the lead in the competition.
The downside to this mic is that it doesn’t include DSP (digital signal processing), a gain knob, and a headphone jack.
Who is it good for
Gamers who are just starting their Twitch streaming careers and mid-end streamers who don’t have a lot of money to spend on their microphone should find this option very suitable.
If you are looking to bring some aesthetic to your work desk this mic is a very cool addition. The pill-shaped design and variety of colors give this mic a flare that not many models have.
Also, if you are looking for a more isolated sound, it could be ideal due to the higher warmth and fewer room sounds it can offer.
Key features
This mic is equipped with a built-in desktop stand that can you can tilt and angle up when speaking, and you can even angle it a bit to the side.
The top half of the mic is all speaker grille, and it has a holed micro USB port on the back panel. There is also a tiny LED lamp that lights up after the mic is connected.
On the backside of the grille, the model features a 14mm condenser capsule that includes a super-cardioid pattern and a frequency range from 20Hz to 20kHz.
The sample rate can reach up to 48kHz, and the bit depth is around 16 bits.
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Simple setup
Cons
- Software is for Windows only
- No headphone jack
5. UHURU USB Podcast Mic
Best for Podcasts
Stefan’s Take:
Unlike the other mics on my list, this one uses a very advanced chipset that isn’t characteristic of mics in this price range.
This is one of the main reasons I liked it. Not only it was useful to me as a content creator, but also to the rest of my team when we were creating audio podcasts for our channel.
During my testing, I also didn’t notice any background noise, sound distortions, or sudden volume changes. Overall, I am satisfied with this mic.
| Quality | 8 |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity | 8 |
| Easy to Use | 8 |
| For Streaming? | 9 |
Another model that deserves a place on my best cheap microphones for streaming list is the UHURU Professional PC mic.
The sampling rate is four times bigger than any other model here uses. It may not be as popular for streaming as the Blue Yeti Nano or Razer Seiren Mini, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth considering.
It’s considered to be more popular with professional podcasters, and if that’s your side-gig, then great.
Who is it good for
Twitch streamers who are also generating revenue through podcasting will enjoy this studio-quality USB microphone that can make the best out of both worlds.
With a price tag of only 50$, it can offer you very clear recordings that are faithful to the original sources.
You can also be sure there won’t be any unwanted coloration of the sounds and distortion.
Also, if you stream in an environment that has a lot going on in the background, this mic will be able to reduce the pickup of unwanted sounds from the sides.
Key features
A high-end chipset is the biggest advantage with this mic. The sample rate goes up to 192KHZ/24-Bit providing you with smooth audio, and not many mics on this list can provide you with that.
The cardioid polar pattern’s job is to remove noise in the background so you can record easily.
A pop-filter-in is also included in the kit that can help you produce a better sound when using rough words that include p, b, and f.
It’s also fairly easy to set up because you don’t need additional driver software. Macs, Windows, and other laptops are all compatible with the software.
The scissor arm can be adjusted however you like due to its durability and steady metal. You can also fold the mic in case you need to transport it somewhere.
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Advanced chipset
- Portable
Cons
- No onboard gain control
6. Samson G-Track Pro
Best for Audio Adaptability
Stefan’s Take:
What I liked the most about the Samson G-Track Pro is the adaptability that it offers. You can choose one of the few recording patterns that are included and there is also the addition of a two-track audio mixer.
Overall, this model is extremely detailed, brings various features to the table, and can produce high-resolution audio, all for a fair bargain.
| Quality | 6 |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity | 9 |
| Easy to Use | 8 |
| For Streaming? | 7 |
This mic uses a USB connector and you won’t need an extra audio recording software since it’s compatible with Mac and Windows.
Who is it good for
This USB microphone is specifically designed to provide high audio quality to podcasters, content creators, and especially Twitch streamers.
Twitch streamers of all levels seem to enjoy this microphone, and even though it’s considered budget-friendly, with 130$ it’s a tad more expensive than most of the other products on my list.
Key features
This mic has a solid-built, multi-pattern USB which makes it ideal for Twitch streaming.
One of the greatest assets of the Samson G-Track Pro is the 1/4-inch audio input, which makes it essentially a 2-track audio mixer.
Thanks to this, you can plug in an extra mic, second audio source, or even a keytar without having to spend money on a separate mixer.
Also, it comes with three sound modes. The cardioid mode is there to record your voice when speaking directly in front of the mic.
It can also record in a bidirectional figure-8 mode that can pick up sound in front of and behind, which can come in hand if you plan on streaming with a partner.
Lastly, the omnidirectional mode picks up all the ambient noise of an area. Having three sound modes is very unusual for budget mics, making this model all that better.
Pros
- 3 sound modes
- Solid built
- Convenient for Twitch streaming
- Variety of features
Cons
- Heavy
7. JLab Audio Talk Go
Great Starter Microphone
Stefan’s Take:
In my opinion, this microphone is great for new streamers and content creators. It offers decent audio quality, easy setup, and, most importantly, it is quite cheap for the features it offers.
It was a surprise to see an omnidirectional setup because it is rare in this price range. The design JLab went for is another plus for me. The mic looks modern and elegant.
The only downside, in my opinion, is the fact that this mic is not so easy to mount since it is quite small.
| Quality | 7 |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity | 7 |
| Easy to Use | 8 |
| For Streaming? | 7 |
One of the last cheap Twitch streaming mics on my list is the JLab Audio Talk Go. This microphone is highly regarded in the streaming community.
Apart from being one of the most budget-friendly options, it’s also one of the most versatile. It does an excellent job in providing decent-sounding for Twitch streamers who are on a budget.
It’s rather small in size so it can easily be transported somewhere if need be.
Who is it good for
Anyone who is looking for a mic that is portable and doesn’t take up a lot of desk space should find this model pretty suitable.
The GO only comes with a pair of Condensers, but surprisingly enough, the sound quality is pretty decent. Beginner streamers don’t need a high-end microphone at the start, so that’s why this one is so popular.
Key features
There are two directional patterns that this microphone featuers (cardioid and omnidirectional).
Cardioid is standard practice in budget mics, but omnidirectional is a very pleasant surprise to me, considering the model’s price.
The small size makes it great for saving space on your desk, and the lightweight of the model makes it very portable.
The design on JLab is also very modern and elegant, having blue powder flairs along with a shiny light wheel.
Aside from giving it a cool look, the wheel’s purpose is to let you know which directional pattern mode you are currently using.
The blue color represents cardioid, green represents omnidirectional, and red represents the mute button. If you want to switch patterns, you just have to hold down the mute button.
Pros
- Good starter mic
- Portable
- Lightweight
- Two polar patterns
Cons
- Might be hard to mount
8. HyperX SoloCast
Great Price-Value Ratio
Stefan’s Take:
What got me when using this mic was the audio quality it offered despite being one of the cheaper models. It’s also quite easy to set up.
Its main flaw is that it only has one cardioid polar pattern, but it still gives decent sound quality.
From the results I got when testing this mic, I concluded that this model is a great choice and worth considering when choosing the right Twitch streaming microphone.
| Quality | 7 |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity | 6 |
| Easy to Use | 8 |
| For Streaming? | 7 |
The HyperX SoloCast is the last budget Twitch streaming mic on my list. This mic sounds almost as good as the microphones that are much more expensive.
The sound quality is unbelievably good considering the mic costs only 60$.
Who is it good for
If you are a Twitch streamer on a budget who is looking for a mic that can deliver a higher-fidelity voice recording, then you found it.
When it comes to sound quality, people are usually concerned about what they will get with a cheaper model, and this one is proof that a low price doesn’t mean low quality.
Key features
When comparing the HyperX SoloCast model with the pricier QuadCast S, it’s quite remarkable how the sound quality is so similar taking into consideration the price difference.
This mic has a 20Hz-20kHz frequency response and a 16-bit sample rate. This means that sound quality is the one thing you don’t have to worry about at all if you purchase this model.
The microphone unfortunately has just the single cardioid polar pattern.
This mic is also pretty easy to set up, so if you don’t have any prior experience with microphones, you can just plug it in and start streaming immediately.
Pros
- Remarkable sound quality
- Affordable
- Portable
- Durable
Cons
- Limited feature set
Things to Consider When Buying a Budget Microphone for Streaming
1. Audio Quality
Although sound quality isn’t determined only by numbers, better budget mics usually boast 16-bit recordings at 44.1kHz or more.
With these numbers, more information can be recorded and stored giving you more flexibility in your streaming and editing.
2. Polar Pattern
The polar pattern is essentially the immanent sensitivity to pick up audio waves and recognize where they will be directed.
In a nutshell, it’s the ability to pick up your voice no matter the angle where it’s coming from. There are three polar patterns in mics; cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional.
3. Connection Method
XLR and USB are the two most common connection methods when it comes to microphones. These two are considerably different.
XLR can’t be connected straight to your laptop. Instead, you need to purchase a mixer or audio interface for streaming where XLR microphone can be plugged in.
That way, more control over the sound could be gained which can result in better general sound quality. However, it’s an investment that you won’t have to make with a USB mic.
Conclusion
I understand how choosing an adequate mic can be complicated, especially if you don’t know what to look for. To summarize, these are my top 3 choices when it comes to budget mics:
- Rode NT-USB Mic as best overall
- Blue Yeti Nano for top price-quality ratio
- Razer Seiren X if you’re looking for razor-sharp audio quality
I hope that after reading my list, you will have a better idea of what to look for and even choose one of the options I recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which polar pattern is best for Twitch streaming?
For gaming and streaming, you should find a mic that can pick up audio in front of the microphone and ignore sounds on the side. Since cardioid records are in front of the microphone, I find it best for streamers.
Should I even get a microphone for streaming if I have an internal mic on the laptop?
The answer is definitely yes!
Although the internal mic in the laptop may be enough for occasional zoom or Skype conferences, if you plan on becoming a serious Twitch streamer, it just won’t cut it.
Even crazy cheap microphones are considered much better than internal laptop mics.
