Achieving crystal-clear audio is essential for keeping your podcast audience interested. Mercifully, getting professional sound doesn’t have to cost a fortune. The best podcast microphones under $100 include a number of great choices that perform well without breaking the bank. For producing content that stands out, whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, you need to buy a microphone that you can count on.
Many affordable options are available that offer great sound quality, durability, and flexibility. Check out the microphone type (condenser or dynamic), connectivity options (USB or XLR), and extra features like built-in pop filters or shock mounts when looking for the best microphone under $100. Below, we have mentioned the best podcast microphones under $100.
Importance of Quality Microphones for Podcasting
Good microphones are very important for podcasting because they have a big effect on how clear the sound is and how well the whole production sounds. A good microphone picks up clear sound, which makes it better for the audience to listen. It cuts down on background noise, makes it easier to understand what people are saying, and makes sure that recordings sound professional. High-quality audio adds to the podcast’s credibility, which helps it get and keep listeners. You need to buy a good microphone if you want to make a polished and interesting podcast that stands out in the crowd of other podcasts.
Best Podcast Microphones Under $100 Comparison Table
Under $100 podcast microphones like the Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB and Samson Q2U produce high-quality audio. Budget podcasters looking for professional-sounding recordings without sacrificing performance should consider these dynamic microphones, which are USB-connected and easy to set up.
| Feature | Pyle USB Microphone | Amcrest USB Microphone | CMTECK USB Microphone | Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB | Razer Seiren X |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connection Type | USB | USB | USB | USB/XLR | USB |
| Frequency Response | Not specified | 30Hz – 20kHz | 50Hz – 16kHz | 50Hz – 15kHz | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Sample Rate | 48kHz | 16-bit/48kHz | Not specified | 24-bit/192kHz | 48kHz |
| Headphone Jack | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Monitoring Controls | No | Volume Control | No | Volume Control, Mix Control | Volume Control, Mute Button |
Pyle USB Microphone
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 7 x 5.9 x 12.2 inches |
| Connector Type | USB |
| Special Feature | Manual |
| Item Weight | 2 pounds |
| Check Price |
Pyle PDMIKT200 is your audio ticket! This kit includes a professional condenser mic, shock mount, and pop filter for clear recordings. No complicated drivers just plug into your PC or Mac and create. Cardioid reduces background noise by focusing on your voice. This mic lets you stream, game, podcast, or sing, while the adjustable stand and pop filter polish your audio. Still, it is one of the best podcast microphones under $100 that you can consider.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Plug-and-play setup
- Suitable for basic recording needs
Cons
- Build quality may be less robust
- Limited advanced features compared to higher-end models
Amcrest USB Microphone
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 16.22 x 9.45 x 3.03 inches |
| Connector Type | USB |
| Special Feature | USB, Gaming |
| Item Weight | 3.19 pounds |
| Check Price |
This Amcrest AM430-BPS is meant to be your only device you need to record high-quality sound. This microphone can handle vocals for podcasts, live streams, and games, and it also works great for professional events like online meetings. Its cardioid pickup pattern picks up your voice and blocks out background noise. Overall, it is one of the best podcast microphones under $100 that you can consider.
Pros
- Good audio quality for its price
- Plug-and-play functionality
- Compact and portable design
Cons
- May lack advanced features
- Durability of construction might be a concern
CMTECK USB Microphone
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 8.15 x 7.09 x 3.11 inches |
| Connector Type | USB |
| Special Feature | Mute Function, noise-cancelling |
| Item Weight | 14.8 ounces |
| Check Price |
The CMTECK USB Podcast Microphone lets you create professional-sounding audio for all your digital needs. Built-in noise-cancelling technology in this versatile mic blocks out annoying background noise, making the sound quality great. Record your voice in absolutely perfect detail, whether you’re running clear online meetings, hosting interesting podcasts, or streaming live to an audience. This is the best podcast microphones under $100 that you can consider.
Pros
- Budget-friendly option
- Compact and portable
- Easy setup and compatibility
Cons
- May have limitations in terms of audio quality
- Not ideal for professional or studio-grade recordings
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 10 x 7 x 3 inches |
| Connector Type | USB Type-C |
| Special Feature | Stand |
| Item Weight | 9.5 ounces |
| Check Price |
High-quality audio and versatility make the Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB a great microphone. This dynamic microphone is ideal for live and recorded performances. The ATR2100x-USB’s built-in USB interface lets you record or stream directly to a computer. This makes it convenient for home studio use or Twitch or YouTube streaming. Overall, this is one of the best podcast microphones under $100.
Pros
- Versatile with both USB and XLR connectivity
- Good audio quality for its price range
- Durable build and suitable for various recording scenarios
Cons
- Higher price compared to basic USB microphones
- May not have advanced features found in more expensive models
Razer Seiren X
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 3.54 x 3.54 x 7.28 inches |
| Connector Type | USB |
| Special Feature | Mute Function |
| Item Weight | 13.5 ounces |
| Check Price |
The Razer Seiren X USB microphone is popular for many reasons. Popular USB microphones include the Seiren X due to its good sound quality. Designed for streaming and recording in a home studio, its cardioid pickup pattern reduces background noise. Its shock mount reduces handling noise, a common issue with USB microphones. Currently, this is one of the best podcast microphones under $100.
Pros
- Sleek design and compact form factor
- Good audio quality for streaming and gaming
- Built-in shock mount for reducing vibrations
Cons
- Pricier compared to some competitors
- Limited to cardioid pickup pattern, limiting versatility in recording setups
Benefits of Podcast Microphones
If you want to make your podcast much better, you should buy a good podcast microphone. If you use good podcast microphones, here are some benefits:
Better sound quality: Good podcast microphones record sound that is clear and crisp, cutting down on background noise and giving the podcast a professional sound. This is very important for giving listeners a good experience and keeping them coming back.
Professionalism: Using a microphone just for podcasting shows that you are serious about being professional. It makes your brand and content look better, which makes your podcast more appealing to both listeners and people who might want to be on it.
Clear Articulation: Good microphones pick up on the subtleties of your voice, which makes sure that your words are understood clearly. This is very important for podcasts, where talking and telling stories are very important.
Less background noise: Good podcast microphones often have noise cancellation or higher sensitivity, which cuts down on background noise and makes sure your podcast recordings are clear and free of distractions.
Versatility: Many podcast microphones are flexible and can be used for different types of recording, like at home, in a studio, or while you’re out and about. This adaptability can help content creators who need to be able to change things quickly.
Finding the Perfect Microphone for Your Podcasting Needs
For high-quality audio in your podcast, it’s important to choose the right microphone. When picking out a microphone for podcasting, here are some important things to keep in mind:
Type of Microphone: Dynamic, condenser, and ribbon microphones are some of the different kinds. Most of the time, dynamic and condenser microphones are used for podcasting. Dynamic microphones last longer and pick up less background noise. Condenser microphones, on the other hand, are more sensitive and pick up a wider range of frequencies.
Polar Shape: Think about which polar pattern will work best in your recording space. For podcasting, cardioid microphones are often suggested because they pick up sound from the front and block out noise from the sides and back. This helps cut down on room reflections and background noise.
Type of Connection: Pick a microphone that can connect to the type of equipment you are using for recording. For beginners, USB microphones are easier to use because they connect directly to your computer. XLR microphones, on the other hand, need an audio interface but provide better sound quality and more options.
Spending plan: Figure out how much you can spend on a microphone. Quality microphones can be bought at a range of prices. When it comes to price, USB microphones are usually more affordable than XLR microphones and the audio interfaces that go with them.
Response to frequency: Take a look at the microphone’s frequency response to see what range of frequencies it can pick up. To get a natural and accurate recording of your voice, you should use a flat and wide frequency response.
FAQs
Diaphragm moisture can cause problems. Moisture on the diaphragm will reduce sound quality. A subtle degradation would not occur. The microphone usually recovers after air drying.
If you’re not one of them, using a mic properly will help you sound good, save your voice, and allow you to add reverb, delay, autotune, etc. Poor mic technique can ruin a great vocal performance.
