Podcasting on a Budget: The Top Five USB Microphones Under $100
We all recognize the Shure MV7 as the undeniable GOAT (Greatest of All Tech) among podcasting microphones, as we established in our comprehensive “Greatest of All Podcast Microphone” article (you can access it here). Nonetheless, not everyone can accommodate the budget required for such a choice. So, which USB microphones under $100 offer the best value?
What to Look for in a $100 Microphone:
- Sound Quality: Even on a budget, you should aim for clear, rich sound quality that enhances your voice or recordings.
- Versatility: Look for microphones that offer multiple polar patterns, allowing you to adapt to various recording situations.
- Ease of Use: Plug-and-play simplicity can save you time and frustration, especially if you’re new to podcasting or recording.
- Build Quality: While budget microphones may not match the build of high-end options, a sturdy construction still matters for longevity and reliability.
Why Go with USB:
- Affordability: USB microphones are often more budget-friendly than their XLR counterparts, making them an ideal choice for beginners.
- Ease of Setup: USB microphones typically require no additional equipment or complex setups. Plug them in, and you’re ready to record.
- Compatibility: They work seamlessly with most computers, making them accessible to a wide range of users.
Top 5 Under $100 USB Podcasting Microphones – Rankings
- Jump to JLAB TALK USB MICROPHONE Review
- Jump to MOVO UM700 USB MICROPHONE Review
- Jump to AMAZON BASICS DESKTOP MINI CONDENSER MICROPHONE Review
- Jump to SHURE MV5 USB MICROPHONE Review
- Jump to SAMSON Q2U DYNAMIC MICROPHONE Review
1. JLab Talk USB Microphone:
Tech Specs:
- Transducer Type: Condenser, Pressure Gradient with USB digital output
- Polar Patterns: Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Stereo, and Bidirectional
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
- Max SPL: 120dB
- Sample Rate: 96k
- Bit Depth: 24
- Capsules: 3 x 14mm condenser capsules
- Weight (Microphone Body): 215g
- Latency: 0
Review:
The JLab Talk USB microphone is not just about budget-friendliness; it’s about delivering professional-quality audio to podcasters, streamers, and content creators.Build and Design:
With its sleek, modern design and compact, lightweight body, the JLab Talk adds an elegant touch to your setup. Its included stand ensures stability during recordings.Sound Quality in Real-world Usage:
Beyond the technical specs, the JLab Talk consistently delivers professional studio-quality audio. Its frequency response spanning 20Hz to 20kHz and a maximum SPL of 120dB capture a broad range of vocal tones with clarity and richness.Versatility:
What sets the JLab Talk apart is its versatility, thanks to its four polar patterns—Cardioid, Stereo, Omnidirectional, and Bidirectional. Whether you’re recording solo content, interviews, or immersive soundscapes, this microphone can adapt to your needs.Ease of Use:
Plug-and-play simplicity reigns supreme here. No need for additional drivers; simply connect via the included USB/USB-C braided cable. Convenient controls for volume, gain, and mute are right on the microphone for easy adjustments.Performance:
In terms of performance, the JLab Talk delivers professional studio-quality audio with a sample rate of 96k and a bit depth of 24, ensuring high-resolution audio capture. In summary, the JLab Talk is an excellent choice for podcasters seeking a versatile, user-friendly, and reasonably priced USB microphone.Strengths:
- Versatility: The JLab Talk offers four different polar patterns, making it suitable for a variety of recording situations.
- Sound Quality: It captures clear, rich sound ideal for vocals, podcasting, voiceovers, interviews, gaming, and more.
- Ease of Use: The JLab Talk is plug-and-play, requiring no additional drivers. Simply connect it via the included USB/USB-C braided cable.
- User-Friendly Controls: Volume, gain control, and a quick mute button are located directly on the microphone for easy adjustments.
Weaknesses:
- Lack of XLR Output: Unlike some other microphones in its category, the JLab Talk does not have an XLR output, limiting its versatility for professional recording setups.
- Additional Equipment: To optimize sound quality, the JLab Talk may require extra equipment like a pop filter or shock mount.
2. Movo UM700 USB Microphone:
Tech Specs:
- Transducer Type: Condenser
- Polar Patterns: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
- Max SPL: 130dB
- Sample Rate: 48kHz
- Bit Depth: 16
- Capsules: Single 16mm
- Weight (Microphone Body): 345g
- Latency: < 7ms
Review:
The Movo UM700 USB microphone is an impressive addition to the under $100 category, offering reliable performance for podcasters, gamers, and content creators.Build and Design:
The UM700 boasts a robust and professional-looking design with an all-metal construction. It features a stable desk stand for secure placement during recording sessions.Sound Quality in Real-world Usage:
This microphone provides clear and detailed audio, thanks to its cardioid polar pattern and a frequency response from 20Hz to 20kHz. It effectively captures vocals and instruments with minimal background noise.Ease of Use:
The UM700 is simple to set up with plug-and-play functionality. Its onboard controls for volume and gain adjustments make it user-friendly, and it works seamlessly with various recording software.Performance:
With a maximum SPL of 130dB and low latency (<7ms), the UM700 excels in capturing a wide dynamic range of audio. It’s suitable for recording vocals, podcasts, gaming commentary, and more. In summary, the Movo UM700 is a solid choice for those seeking a high-quality USB microphone under $100 with professional-grade sound and build.Strengths:
- Sound Quality: The UM700 captures clear and detailed audio with its cardioid polar pattern.
- Build Quality: Its all-metal construction ensures durability and stability during recordings.
- Ease of Use: Plug-and-play setup and onboard controls make it accessible for all users.
- Low Latency: The microphone offers low-latency performance, suitable for real-time applications.
Weaknesses:
- Polar Pattern: The UM700 has a cardioid polar pattern, which may not be as versatile for certain recording scenarios compared to microphones with multiple patterns.
- Bit Depth and Sample Rate: While suitable for most applications, it has a 16-bit depth and a 48kHz sample rate, which may not satisfy audiophiles.
3. Amazon Basics Desktop Mini Condenser Microphone:
Tech Specs:
- Transducer Type: Condenser
- Polar Patterns: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
- Max SPL: Not specified
- Sample Rate: 16-bit/48kHz
- Bit Depth: Not specified
- Capsules: Single condenser capsule
- Weight (Microphone Body): Not specified
- Latency: Not specified
Review:
The Amazon Basics Desktop Mini Condenser Microphone is an affordable and compact solution for users looking to improve their audio quality during virtual meetings, podcasts, and voiceovers.Build and Design:
This microphone features a sleek and minimalist design that easily fits into any workspace. Its compact size makes it suitable for travel or smaller recording setups.Sound Quality in Real-world Usage:
While not the most feature-rich microphone, it offers a significant improvement over built-in computer microphones. With a cardioid polar pattern and a frequency response from 20Hz to 20kHz, it captures clear and intelligible audio.Ease of Use:
The Amazon Basics microphone is incredibly easy to use—simply plug it into a USB port, and you’re ready to go. It’s compatible with various operating systems and recording software.Performance:
For basic recording needs and online communication, this microphone performs admirably. It’s an excellent choice for users on a tight budget looking to upgrade their audio setup. In summary, the Amazon Basics Desktop Mini Condenser Microphone is a no-frills, budget-friendly option for those seeking an improvement in audio quality.Strengths:
- Affordability: It’s one of the most budget-friendly options available.
- Compact Design: The small size is ideal for portable setups or limited desk space.
- Ease of Use: Plug-and-play setup makes it accessible to all users.
Weaknesses:
- Limited Features: It lacks advanced features found in higher-end microphones.
- Max SPL and Bit Depth: Detailed specifications such as max SPL and bit depth are not provided.
4. Shure MV5 USB Microphone:
4. Shure MV5 USB Microphone:Tech Specs:
- Transducer Type: Condenser
- Polar Patterns: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
- Max SPL: 130dB
- Sample Rate: 24-bit/48kHz
- Bit Depth: 24
- Capsules: Single 16mm
- Weight (Microphone Body): 90g
- Latency: Not specified
Review:
The Shure MV5 USB microphone offers an excellent balance of portability, sound quality, and affordability, making it a strong choice for podcasters and content creators on the go.Build and Design:
With its compact and sleek design, the MV5 is highly portable. It features a durable metal construction and an integrated stand for stable positioning.Sound Quality in Real-world Usage:
This microphone delivers impressive audio quality, particularly for its size and price range. Its cardioid polar pattern and wide frequency response capture clear and detailed sound with minimal background noise.Ease of Use:
Setting up the MV5 is straightforward—just plug it into a USB port. It’s compatible with various recording and streaming applications, and Shure offers a dedicated app for additional control.Performance:
With a maximum SPL of 130dB and a 24-bit/48kHz sample rate, the MV5 performs exceptionally well for its class. It’s suitable for recording vocals, instruments, podcasts, and more. In summary, the Shure MV5 USB microphone is a versatile and compact option for creators who need high-quality audio on the move.Strengths:
- Portability: Its compact size and design make it ideal for travel and portable setups.
- Sound Quality: The MV5 offers impressive audio quality with its cardioid pattern and wide frequency response.
- Compatibility: It’s compatible with various recording and streaming applications, with an additional app for control.
Weaknesses:
- Price: While affordable, it’s priced slightly higher than some other microphones in this category.
- Latency: Detailed latency specifications are not provided.
5. Samson Q2U Dynamic Microphone:
Tech Specs:
- Transducer Type: Dynamic
- Polar Patterns: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 50Hz – 15kHz
- Max SPL: Not specified
- Sample Rate: 16-bit/48kHz
- Bit Depth: 16
- Capsules: Single dynamic capsule
- Weight (Microphone Body): 370g
- Latency: Not specified
Review:
The Samson Q2U Dynamic Microphone is a versatile and affordable choice for those seeking a durable and reliable USB microphone for podcasting and recording applications.Build and Design:
Designed for durability, the Q2U features a rugged construction with a solid build. It includes both a handheld and desktop stand, providing flexibility for various recording setups.Sound Quality in Real-world Usage:
While it may not have the extended frequency response of some condenser microphones, the Q2U excels in capturing clear and warm audio. Its cardioid polar pattern minimizes background noise, making it suitable for vocals and spoken word.Ease of Use:
The Q2U is a plug-and-play microphone, requiring no additional drivers. Its dual output options (USB and XLR) offer versatility, allowing you to use it with a wide range of devices.Performance:
With a wide frequency response from 50Hz to 15kHz, the Q2U provides reliable sound capture for podcasts, vocals, and instruments. Its dynamic capsule handles high sound pressure levels effectively. In summary, the Samson Q2U Dynamic Microphone is a dependable and versatile USB microphone that offers excellent value for its price.Strengths:
- Durability: The Q2U’s rugged build ensures longevity.
- Sound Quality: It captures clear and warm audio suitable for podcasts and vocals.
- Dual Output: The microphone offers both USB and XLR outputs for versatile connectivity.
Weaknesses:
- Frequency Response: The limited frequency response may not capture the full spectrum of some audio sources.
- Max SPL and Bit Depth: Detailed specifications for max SPL and bit depth are not provided.
Conclusion:
In the realm of budget podcasting microphones, the options available in 2023 are more promising than ever. Each of the top five microphones we’ve explored offers unique strengths and caters to different preferences and needs. Whether you prioritize versatility, sound quality, or affordability, there’s a microphone on this list that suits your requirements. So, whether you’re just getting started on your podcasting journey or looking to upgrade your current setup, these under-$100 microphones prove that greatness doesn’t always come with a hefty price tag. Happy podcasting! 🎙️🐐
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