The microphones category covers USB and XLR microphones, lavalier clip-on mics, on-camera microphones and wireless sets for streamers, podcasters, musicians and remote workers.
There are over 400 models to choose from, including RØDE, Sennheiser, Shure, Maono and Thronmax.
How to choose a microphone
Connection. A USB microphone plugs straight into your computer and needs no extra equipment, which makes it the simplest route for streaming, calls and podcasts. An XLR microphone needs an audio interface or a mixer, but it lets you upgrade parts of your setup one at a time.
Microphone type. Dynamic microphones pick up less background noise, so they suit untreated rooms and live use. Condenser microphones capture more nuance and work well for vocals and voice recording in a quiet room, but they react to every sound around them, and XLR models often need phantom power.
Polar pattern. A cardioid pattern picks up sound mainly from the front, which suits one person sitting at a desk. If several people share one microphone or you want to capture the sound of the room, look for omnidirectional or bidirectional patterns. Some USB microphones let you switch between patterns.
Where you will use it. At a desk, a microphone with a stand or a boom arm is usually enough. For filming, a directional on-camera microphone is the better fit, while a clip-on or wireless set helps when you are moving around or speaking to an audience.
Accessories. A pop filter reduces plosives and hissing sounds, and a shock mount dampens desk vibrations. With a USB model, check whether it has a headphone output, since that lets you hear yourself without delay.
Brands in our range
- RØDE: an Australian manufacturer known for studio USB microphones, on-camera shotgun microphones and wireless sets for content creators.
- Sennheiser: a German company whose microphones are used in studios, broadcasting, conference rooms and on stage.
- Shure: an American manufacturer famous for dynamic vocal and instrument microphones such as the SM58 and SM57.
- Maono and Thronmax: USB microphones aimed at streaming, podcasts and online chat, usually with a headphone output and simple setup.
- Razer and Logitech: makers of gaming and office peripherals whose microphones are aimed at streamers and everyday desk work.
Also in our range: Endorfy, Genesis, Delock.
Microphone FAQ
Which microphone is best for streaming and podcasts?
Most beginners choose a USB microphone with a cardioid pattern, as it connects directly to the computer and needs no extra gear. If your room has a lot of echo or keyboard noise, a dynamic model often sounds cleaner than a condenser. Later, you can move to an XLR microphone and an audio interface for better quality.
Does an XLR microphone need an audio interface?
Yes, an XLR microphone cannot be plugged straight into a computer's USB port. You need an audio interface, a mixer or a dedicated XLR to USB adapter. Condenser XLR microphones also need 48 V phantom power, which the interface or mixer must supply.
What is the difference between dynamic and condenser microphones?
A dynamic microphone is more robust, picks up less background noise and does not need phantom power. A condenser microphone is more sensitive, so it captures more voice detail but also more room sound. Dynamic models are more common on stage and in untreated rooms, condensers in studios.
Which microphone should I use for filming video?
For a camera, most people choose a directional on-camera microphone, because it picks up sound from in front of the lens. For interviews or when you are moving, a clip-on microphone or wireless set works better since it can sit close to the speaker. Before buying, check that your camera has a 3.5 mm microphone input.
