Being a game is like a dream come true. If you have quick reflexes and the thirst to prove yourself in the online world, then you can make it happen.
But you will need a voice to make yourself heard. Unfortunately, if you don’t have the best microphone for gaming, you can’t really achieve the dream of being an icon in the gaming realm.
So, we took it upon ourselves to help you with your endeavor of becoming a decent gamer and streamer. Upon doing some extensive research, we came up with some of the best microphone choices for a gamer.
Although the list doesn’t have all the big players, it has all the right choices. As a matter of fact, as we present this list to you, we will say one thing:
You will not regret if you choose one of our offerings.
Speaking of offerings, let’s have a quick look at the options we have for you.
Comparison of the Best Microphones for Gaming
| Product | Polar Pattern | Product Dimensions |
| Blue Yeti USB Mic | Cardioid/Omni/Figure-8/Stereo | 4.9 x 4.7 x 11.6 inches |
| Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ USB Microphone | Cardioid | 6.4 x 2 x 2 inches |
| Blue Snowball iCE USB Mic | Cardioid | 10.6 x 5.5 x 9.1 inches |
| Rode NT1-A Anniversary Vocal Microphone Package | Cardioid | 15.2 x 4.5 x 11 inches |
| Razer Seiren Elite USB Streaming Microphone | Super-Cardioid | 8.9 x 3.5 x 2.7 inches |
| Samson G-Track Pro Professional USB Microphone | Cardioid, Omni Directional, and Bi-directional | 11 x 6 x 6 inches |
| MXL Mics 770 | Cardioid | 12 x 4 x 8 inches |
Now that you’ve had a glimpse of our choices, it is now time to dive into the review and see if the products are really worth it.
Best Microphones for Gaming: Our Top 7 Picks for 2021
Blue Yeti USB Mic
Product Overview
If you’re not familiar with ‘Blue’, then we must say you are lacking behind. Still, the purpose of this review of the best microphone is to let you know of the Blue Yeti USB Mic. Although it’s not the best mic in the world, we would keep it at the very top when it comes to a gaming mic.
The design of the Blue Yeti Mic isn’t anything over the top. It’s sleek and simple, there’s really nothing unnecessary going on with the overall aesthetics. So, the abstract nature shouldn’t mess with your OCD.
But the performance is really top-notch. The manufacturers haven’t made any compromises here. They want you to have the best possible experience at a fair price, which is why you are getting a 3-condenser capsule design and 4-types of pattern recognition.
Also, the 48Khz sample rate is also one of the key features, which allows the user to listen and feel the output. Pair that with the intuitive control array, and the overall experience becomes a lot more enjoyable.
So, if you are someone who likes simple but powerful microphones for his gaming setup, then the Blue Yeti USB mic is probably the option you’d want to choose. If you want to compare its quality to some of the big players, then you will know what we’re talking about.
So, we would certainly welcome your research if you really want to have the best gaming audio quality.
Pros
- The overall design feels premium.
- It’s fairly portable and doesn’t take up much space.
- The recording capabilities are spot on thanks to the triple-capsule design.
- It’s good for both voice and instrument recording.
- You have all the essential controls like mute and gain control.
- Picks up noise patterns like a champ.
- The headphone jack allows better monitoring capabilities.
Cons
- The buttons may feel cheap to some users.
Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ USB Microphone
Product Overview
Audio Technica is another big player in the media industry. It’s because of their very intuitive and creative line-up of products that’s made them come this far. And the AT2020USB+ is proof of that claim.
Let’s start off with the design first. Just like the previous option, it features a very simple and minimalistic look. So, if you want something that sits on your desk and doesn’t flash out too much, then you will be happy with this option without a doubt.
As for the performance, then you are getting a solid overall performance. Despite being a USB mic, you have a 48Khz sampling rate, which is responsible for crystal clear audio. Pair that with a robust high-quality internal headphone and you should see a very noticeable jump in the quality of your recordings.
You also have all the necessary controls you’d need for a decent quality sound output. In short, this 16-bit Analog-to-digital converter microphone maintains a proper balance between style and performance as a whole.
So, if you’re thinking of moving on from your old USB mic for gaming, then you should certainly take a look at the AT2020USB+ from Audio Technica. You will not regret it.
Pros
- A 16-bit condenser mic that’s very portable.
- You do get all the necessary controls you need.
- The headphone jack allows proper monitoring capabilities.
- Features a solid headphone amplifier that keeps the musical details intact.
- The clarity of the audio is very nice for gaming as a whole.
Cons
- There is some distortion at low volumes.
Blue Snowball iCE USB Mic
Product Overview
We don’t have to tell you anything more about “Blue”. The products and their reliability are what keeps them alive as a brand in the audio industry. That’s just how it is.
It’s one of the reasons why we have the Blue Snowball iCE USB microphone in our list for the best microphone for gaming. The features are pretty well-rounded if you’re looking for something that offers clean and clear audio.
The design features a ‘Snowball’-like attire, which explains the naming scheme. And it’s one of the noteworthy features of the iCE, which sits on your gaming desk quietly, with a slight touch of flair.
Youtubers and streamers love the quality of this USB mic. The custom condenser along with a super convenient plug-and-play option is one of the reasons for its popularity. In short, it’s the custom design that makes all the difference, and that’s also by being just a computer mic.
So, if you’re someone who wants to have a taste of custom quality and all that accompanies it, then the iCE USB mic should be a no brainer. Do check it out if you’re interested.
Pros
- It features a solid overall design that also has good portability.
- It comes with a custom condenser design that delivers decent audio.
- You have a 44-kHz sampling rate that offers clean and clear audio.
- The plug-and-play feature makes the overall user experience very enjoyable.
Cons
- The lack of controls is a bummer.
Rode NT1-A Anniversary Vocal Microphone Package
Product Overview
If you are looking for something that can easily be the best microphone for vocals on your gaming desk, then the Rode NT1-A is clearly the mic you should pick up.
So, let’s have a look at the features that make it so lucrative.
First of all, it’s an overall package that comes with all the necessary perks and features you could need. The design is very studio-like; no problems there.
But the smooth and warm audio is what you’d want if you are thinking of voice recording. If that’s the only purpose you’ll be using a microphone for, then the NT1-A is the way to go.
You are getting a solid dynamic range and a high SPL (Sound Pressure Level) sensitivity, which you may not find with some high-end options out there. Pair that with a proper self-noise level management system, and you have a very quiet and capable microphone at hand.
So, if you’re looking for a gaming microphone that will deliver crystal clear audio while you’re busy with your stream, then you can go with the NT1-A with your eyes closed.
Pros
- It features a 1-inch capsule that features a diaphragm with gold plating.
- The self-noise signature of 5dB is very satisfactory.
- Features a wide dynamic range with a low-noise precision circuitry.
- The internal shock-mount deserves kudos.
- The instrument recording performance is decent as well.
Cons
- It does need some tweaking for optimal performance.
Razer Seiren Elite USB Streaming Microphone
Product Overview
Razer, one of the potent leaders in the gaming industry, has a lot of offerings in the consumer PC space. The Razer Seiren is amongst these offerings, which is purpose-built for game streaming.
When it comes to the features of the Seiren Elite, then you have a pretty subtle design overall. There’s nothing off-putting, and it doesn’t scream out at you when you’re entering your room and sitting at your desk. In short, it’s a nice, portable-looking design.
The audio signature is what sets the Seiren apart from the competition. Not only do you have a dynamic capsule design for rich and crisp audio, but the zero-latency monitoring makes it stand out from other potential players in the industry.
Then you have the in-built high-pass filter that detains any low noise and keeps them away for good measure. You get a 48Khz sampling rate as well, which revamps the entire sound signature.
So, if gaming and streaming are the two things you want in your life, then you could certainly take a closer look at it.
Pros
- It features a good overall build quality.
- Low vibration noises can’t get in due to high-quality filtering.
- It features solid monitoring capabilities.
- The monitoring latency is commendable.
- It offers a very rich sound signature, which deserves kudos.
Cons
- Some parts of the microphone don’t justify the pricing.
Samson G-Track Pro Professional USB Microphone
Product Overview
For those of you who are on a budget, the Samson G-track Pro can be a very decent USB microphone. It’s a really nice option for newbies who want to start streaming and recording while playing their favorite games.
We won’t spend too much time on the design. It’s simple and isn’t too overwhelming. Also, the build quality complements the design as well, making it stand out from all the cheap options out there.
The performance is also satisfactory as a whole. You have all the necessary controls you need for the right amount of flexibility. Also, you have 3-pickup patterns, offering a good bit of versatility and control. Furthermore, the plug-and-play feature is a huge plus, making your experience with it hassle-free overall.
So, if you’re someone who is on a budget but wants something that offers a seamless experience, then the G-Track is certainly a good option to start with. If you’re just starting out, then do give it a try.
Pros
- The die-cast zinc shell with heavy-gauge offers a premium feel.
- You have all the mixing controls at the right locations.
- There’s no additional driver installation.
- A solid choice for both vocals and instrument audio recording.
Cons
- It is a bit heavy due to the robust build quality.
MXL Mics 770
Product Overview
There are plenty of budget options out there when it comes to gaming microphones. Still, there are very few options that can live up to the expectations of the user.
With a price point like this, you can’t really expect anything too high-end. Still, it checks all the boxes in terms of the design.
As for the performance, then you have a very capable microphone that does a really good job of recording and delivering audio. You have a multipurpose condenser design with low-frequency roll-off. Also, the internal FET’s are very capable of keeping the low noise artifacts out.
And the audio output balance is on point as well. Overall, in terms of clarity and control, you are getting a decent value.
So, if you are interested in getting started with something that has all the bells and whistles, then going with the MXL 770 will certainly not hurt your chances.
Pros
- The design is acceptable that features transformerless innards.
- The sound signature is very clear and precise.
- Features good overall bass response.
- There are no noticeable artifact issues.
- The pricing is very competitive.
Cons
- The case design isn’t up to the mark.
How to Buy the Best Microphone for Gaming: What you should know
If you want to go with our choices then we can guarantee that you will not regret your choice.
However, if you want to go with something different, then we wouldn’t hold anything against you. But we want you to be prepared for what comes next.
So, here are a few important tips you should consider before you go and get a gaming microphone.
The Portability and Dimensions
Although it is a common assumption that you will not move your microphone around too much, it doesn’t hurt to have some form of portability. So, just take a look at the design and dimensions. It’s the very first thing you should do.
Sample Rate and Dynamic Range
In terms of the sample rate and the dynamic range, the higher the number the better. Usually, 48-kHz is the standard when it comes to the sampling rate.
We would urge you to get a second opinion from your fellow gamers. Also, checking the website of the respected brand is also an option.
Directional Pickup
You basically have 3-types of pickup: omnidirectional, bidirectional and unidirectional. In general, the price point decides which and how many options you can get. We would recommend that you go for an option that has support for all three.
Custom Design and Pricing
The mics with a custom capsule design will sound different. But there’s a very high possibility that it offers superior quality than all the other brands out there.
And the pricing may vary with the design as well. So, you may want to keep an eye out for that as well.
Controls and Functionality
If you need proper controlling capabilities, then you may want to check what options you have with a particular microphone.
In 2021, you will find both hardware and software-based functionalities. Both have their highs and lows. But you have the choice of saying ‘no’ here. So, you should get your priorities right if you want the best possible experience.
The functionality will go up with the controlling capabilities. So, if the controls are good, you have proper functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Which mic provides the best collection of polar patterns for gaming mics?
Answer: So far, we’ve got a couple of them on board, each providing four polar pattern variations. The models are the Blue Yeti USB mic and the Samson G-track Pro.
Question: About the sampling rate, what’s the best score there in the gaming mic regime?
Answer: For gaming mics, 48khz is the most usual and probably the best performing sampling rate. Gamers seem to be quite happy with that so far.
Question: Will a gaming mic do the same kind of service for YouTubers and other streamers?
Answer: As long as the technical specs are quite the same for all of them, a gaming mic would be more than okay for any professional YouTuber or streamer.
Question: Is USB mic a good option for a gamer?
Answer: When it comes to budget-friendly deals for gamers, they often go with USB mics. They might not be as top-notch as the full-fletched ones, but we’d rate them okay.
Question: Is there any custom condenser design available?
Answer: Yeah, there are a few custom condenser designs available in this list. We’d go with the Blue Snowball iCE USB mic for that.
Question: How would I ensure the audio sensitivity of my gaming mic before buying?
Answer: Before you put your hand on ‘the one’ you can sort them up by the SPL (Sound Pressure Level) to check the best available audio sensitivity.
Final Thoughts
We’ve shared a lot of information on these best microphones for gaming reviews.
Although it’s hard to take in all the information, we would urge you to at least try. The information we have here is highly crucial to your success.
One last piece of advice we would like to offer is to stick with a proper brand. Because you’re not just getting the brand value, you’re also getting reliability as well, which has no face value upfront. But you will understand once you get a full taste of the after-market service.
With that said, it’s time for us to take your leave. See you soon.
Have fun!
