We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Streaming Mics 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording and Streaming on PC and Mac with Blue VOCE Effects, 4 Pickup Patterns, Headphone Output and Volume Control, Mic Gain Control, Adjustable Stand, Plug & Play – Blackout

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,279
Polar Pattern
Connectivity
Build Quality

Most important from
34674 reviews

Polar Pattern
The ability to choose from four polar patterns is a marvelous feature, making it versatile for various scenarios like conference calls and round-table discussions.
Connectivity
Setup was an absolute breeze; it's a true plug-and-play mic that works right away with no compatibility issues, making it user-friendly for both Mac and PC.
Build Quality
The sleek blackout finish not only looks stylish but also complements various setups perfectly, adding a professional touch to any desk.
Additional Features
The headphone pass-through feature is incredibly useful for real-time feedback, allowing users to monitor and adjust mic levels easily.

The Logitech for Creators Blue Yeti USB Microphone is a standout option for anyone involved in streaming, gaming, or podcasting. It boasts a custom three-capsule array that delivers impressive, broadcast-quality sound, making it perfect for YouTube videos and Twitch streams. One of its key strengths is its versatility with four polar patterns: cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo. This flexibility means you can adjust the mic to best capture your voice or other sounds, eliminating the need for multiple microphones.

Another plus is the Blue VOICE software, which enhances your recordings with features like advanced modulation and audio samples, helping you create a more engaging experience for your audience. The onboard audio controls allow for quick adjustments to headphone volume and mic gain, and the instant mute button is handy for quick interruptions during streams.

In terms of build quality, the Blue Yeti feels sturdy and is designed for easy positioning with its adjustable stand, which is great for optimizing sound quality based on your setup. Plus, the plug-and-play feature makes it incredibly user-friendly, allowing you to start streaming or recording almost instantly on both Mac and PC.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,279
Polar Pattern
Connectivity
Build Quality

Most important from
34674 reviews

Polar Pattern
The ability to choose from four polar patterns is a marvelous feature, making it versatile for various scenarios like conference calls and round-table discussions.
Connectivity
Setup was an absolute breeze; it's a true plug-and-play mic that works right away with no compatibility issues, making it user-friendly for both Mac and PC.
Build Quality
The sleek blackout finish not only looks stylish but also complements various setups perfectly, adding a professional touch to any desk.
Additional Features
The headphone pass-through feature is incredibly useful for real-time feedback, allowing users to monitor and adjust mic levels easily.
#2

Shure MV7+ Podcast Dynamic Microphone. OBS Certified, Enhanced Audio, LED Touch Panel, USB-C & XLR Outputs, Auto Level Mode, Digital Pop Filter, Reverb Effects, Podcasting, Streaming, Recording -Black

Rating
9.8
Microphone Type
Polar Pattern
Frequency Response

Most important from
3222 reviews

Microphone Type
The Shure MV7+ offers exceptional vocal clarity and significantly better audio output compared to average laptop mics.
Polar Pattern
The cardioid polar pattern and built-in shock mount effectively reduce background noise and handling noise.
Frequency Response
The microphone has a frequency response tailored for speech, making voices sound clear and natural.
Connectivity
The dual USB/XLR output provides flexibility for different recording environments, making it versatile and easy to use.
Build Quality
Perfect for podcasting, streaming, and voiceovers, with top-notch build quality and outstanding sound.
Additional Features
Crystal-clear voice recording with excellent isolation from background noise, even in noisy environments.

The Shure MV7+ is a dynamic microphone designed for podcasting, streaming, and recording, delivering solid performance for these uses. One of its standout features is its OBS certification, ensuring excellent audio quality and easy integration with popular streaming software. This makes it a great choice for content creators looking to enhance their audio without a steep learning curve.

It has a unidirectional polar pattern, which helps in isolating your voice from background noise—ideal for those in less-than-perfect recording environments. The real-time denoiser and digital pop filter further enhance audio clarity, reducing unwanted sounds and plosives that can disrupt recordings.

The LED touch panel adds a fun and functional element, allowing users to choose from a wide range of colors and providing an intuitive way to monitor audio levels. Features like the quick mute function are also handy during live sessions, offering more control over your audio output. On the connectivity side, the dual USB-C and XLR outputs provide versatility, making it easy to connect to different setups. The onboard reverb effects are an interesting addition, allowing musicians or podcasters to add depth to their recordings. The Motiv Mix app integration is a nice touch for users wanting to customize and optimize settings further.

While the MV7+ is great for streaming, some users may find it a bit on the heavier side, which could affect portability if you're on the go. Beginners might also find the range of features overwhelming at first, potentially requiring some initial setup time to get everything dialed in properly.

The Shure MV7+ is a well-rounded microphone that meets the demands of podcasters and streamers, providing a mix of advanced features and user-friendly design. It’s suitable for both new and experienced users, with a few considerations around weight and complexity for complete novices.

Rating
9.8
Microphone Type
Polar Pattern
Frequency Response

Most important from
3222 reviews

Microphone Type
The Shure MV7+ offers exceptional vocal clarity and significantly better audio output compared to average laptop mics.
Polar Pattern
The cardioid polar pattern and built-in shock mount effectively reduce background noise and handling noise.
Frequency Response
The microphone has a frequency response tailored for speech, making voices sound clear and natural.
Connectivity
The dual USB/XLR output provides flexibility for different recording environments, making it versatile and easy to use.
Build Quality
Perfect for podcasting, streaming, and voiceovers, with top-notch build quality and outstanding sound.
Additional Features
Crystal-clear voice recording with excellent isolation from background noise, even in noisy environments.
#3

Shure SM7dB Dynamic Vocal Microphone w/Built-in Preamp for Streaming, Podcast, & Recording, Wide-Range Frequency, Warm & Smooth Sound, Rugged Construction, Detachable Windscreen - Black

Rating
9.7
Frequency Response
Build Quality
Additional Features

Most important from
560 reviews

Frequency Response
Even in a properly treated studio, the SM7dB is a great choice; the low boost and tapered high end are flattering.
Build Quality
Build quality is state of the art. It's a hefty microphone, but every bit of the weight is intentional.
Additional Features
The on-mic air suspension functions as a massive buffer from desk bumps and movement.

The Shure SM7dB is a dynamic vocal microphone designed with streaming, podcasting, and recording in mind. One of its standout features is the legendary warm sound, which many users love for its rich audio quality. Thanks to its built-in preamp that provides up to 28 dB of transparent gain, it captures both quiet and loud sound sources effectively. The cardioid polar pattern is great for isolating your voice from background noise, making it ideal for less-than-perfect recording environments. You also have the option to bypass the preamp for a more traditional signal, which adds versatility depending on your needs.

Its wide frequency response of 50Hz to 20,000Hz ensures that both highs and lows are well captured, enhancing the sound quality. The ability to adjust the sound signature with switches on the back makes it easy to find the right tone for different voices and instruments. The rugged build quality is another plus, making it durable for travel or regular use.

It does require an interface or mixer that offers 48V phantom power, which could be a limitation if you're not equipped with such gear. Additionally, while it’s great for various audio applications, it may be more than what casual streamers or podcasters need, given its professional-grade features. Its weight of 2.7 pounds may not be the most portable option for everyone. The Shure SM7dB is a solid choice for serious content creators and professionals seeking high-quality audio and reliable performance, but it may not be necessary for those just starting out or with simpler setups.

Rating
9.7
Frequency Response
Build Quality
Additional Features

Most important from
560 reviews

Frequency Response
Even in a properly treated studio, the SM7dB is a great choice; the low boost and tapered high end are flattering.
Build Quality
Build quality is state of the art. It's a hefty microphone, but every bit of the weight is intentional.
Additional Features
The on-mic air suspension functions as a massive buffer from desk bumps and movement.

Buying Guide for the Best Streaming Mics

Choosing the right streaming microphone can significantly enhance the quality of your content, whether you're a podcaster, gamer, or live streamer. The right microphone will capture your voice clearly and reduce background noise, making your streams more professional and enjoyable for your audience. To find the best fit for you, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your specific needs.
Microphone TypeThere are two main types of microphones: dynamic and condenser. Dynamic microphones are durable and handle high sound pressure levels well, making them ideal for loud environments. Condenser microphones are more sensitive and provide a higher quality sound, which is great for controlled environments like a home studio. If you stream in a noisy environment, a dynamic microphone might be better. If you have a quiet, controlled space, a condenser microphone could be the right choice.
Polar PatternThe polar pattern of a microphone determines how it picks up sound from different directions. Common patterns include cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional. Cardioid microphones pick up sound primarily from the front, making them great for solo streamers. Omnidirectional microphones capture sound from all directions, which can be useful for group discussions. Bidirectional microphones pick up sound from the front and back, ideal for interviews. Choose a polar pattern based on how you plan to use the microphone.
Frequency ResponseFrequency response refers to the range of frequencies a microphone can pick up. A wider frequency response captures more detail in your voice, while a narrower range might miss some nuances. For most streamers, a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz is sufficient, as it covers the full range of human hearing. If you have a deep voice, look for a microphone with good low-frequency response. For higher-pitched voices, ensure the microphone captures higher frequencies well.
ConnectivityMicrophones can connect to your computer via USB or XLR. USB microphones are easy to set up and use, making them ideal for beginners. XLR microphones require an audio interface or mixer, offering more control over sound quality and are preferred by professionals. If you're just starting out, a USB microphone is a convenient choice. If you're looking for higher audio quality and more control, consider an XLR microphone.
Build QualityThe build quality of a microphone affects its durability and longevity. Look for microphones made from sturdy materials like metal, which can withstand regular use and accidental drops. A well-built microphone will last longer and provide consistent performance. If you plan to travel with your microphone or use it frequently, investing in a durable model is important.
Additional FeaturesSome microphones come with additional features like built-in headphone jacks for real-time monitoring, mute buttons, and gain controls. These features can enhance your streaming experience by giving you more control over your audio. Consider what additional features might be useful for your specific needs. For example, real-time monitoring can help you catch audio issues during a live stream, while a mute button can be handy for quickly silencing your mic.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now