It only takes a few Zoom calls to realize that a standard laptop microphone simply can’t deliver high-quality audio. While some companies have provided employees with a stipend to improve their home office setup, including adding lighting for video calls, many weren’t so lucky.
Luckily, there's plenty of technology out there to improve the quality of these virtual conferences, and a replacement microphone is a smart way to give your audio a healthy boost right away. From high-end microphones for streaming to Lightning port audio accessories for on-the-go recording, there's certainly no shortage of models to choose from. Without further ado, here are some of the best microphones for the home studio.
Shure MV5 Digital Condenser Microphone: Best Overall
The Shure MV5 is a compact, solid microphone with a classic radio-master design. Three independent preset modes (Instrument, Flat, and Voice) provide optimal sound quality depending on the task at hand. The microphone easily detaches from the aluminum stand for a more discreet fit on the table. As with other MOTIV products, this microphone also comes with the ShurePlus MOTIV app, which allows users to more precisely adjust recording quality and share these files.
While the best microphone for you will depend on your budget, your setup, and your priorities during Zoom meetings, we found the Shure MV5 Digital Condenser Microphone to be the best overall for a combination of capabilities, price, and performance.
Highlighted Features
- Three modes: voice, flat, instrument.
- Since this is a condenser microphone, it is best to use a phantom power supply, which can be provided by a preamp or mixer.
- Apple MFi certified to work with iPhones/iPads.
Prices
List Price: $124
Blue Yeti USB Microphone: Best Entry-Level Microphone
When it comes to top-notch microphones, Blue is one of the heavyweights on the market. The Blue Yeti USB microphone is one of the manufacturer’s most versatile devices. This model comes with four different pattern modes for optimal sound quality in a variety of situations. For example, those who are recording music or simply tuning into a conference call may prefer the cardioid mode to capture audio occurring immediately in front of the unit. To better record conversations between two people in the same room, the bi-directional mode captures audio from both the front and back sides of the microphone.
Highlighted Features
- Complete and versatile.
- Optional pattern modes.
- It can stand on its own or be mounted.
Prices
$129.99
JOUNIVO USB Recording Microphone – Ideal for Small Offices
Not everyone looking for a high-quality USB microphone is looking for a personal home studio. This JUNIVO model acts as an excellent no-frills microphone with plenty of thoughtful design details. A central LED-equipped mute button along the base allows you to quickly turn off the microphone without having to search for the digital button in the Zoom room. This is the perfect feature for those who have pets roaming around the home office.
Highlighted Features
- It's only four inches in diameter, making it ideal for desks with limited space.
- Adjustable gooseneck microphone body.
- Noise-cancelling technology keeps audio crisp and clear.
Prices
$24.99
Elgato Wave 3: The Best for Podcast Editing
The Elgato Wave:3 is a versatile microphone for remote workers, gamers, and musicians. The microphone has a steel outer grille that protects the internal components and uses a cardioid polar pattern to capture audio. The back of the device features a USB Type-C port and a headphone output. The front dial adjusts headphone volume, input, and more. The stand features a U-bracket for easy adjustments, and the padded base keeps the unit firmly in place. A mute function lets you cut audio as needed, and Elgato offers a pop filter (sold separately) to further minimize audio disturbances.
Highlighted Features
- Control this microphone and up to eight other audio sources from the Wave Link app to edit podcasts, create mixes, or record meetings.
- Small form factor and elegant appearance.
Prices
$143.99
HyperX SoloCast: Best for streaming
The HyperX SoloCast USB microphone is a great choice for frequent Zoom conference attendees, especially those who enjoy gaming and live streaming after the workday. To prevent audio issues, the model features a dedicated mute button, as well as an LED indicator to ensure the microphone is muted or unmuted as intended. For added functionality, the model is compatible with PS4 and popular live streaming platforms.
Highlighted Features
- The cardioid (heart-shaped) polar pattern only picks up sound coming from the front, where you're speaking.
- Can be freely placed or mounted.
Prices
List Price: $59.99
HEiL Sound PR-40: Ideal for broadcast-style audio from multiple directions
With a steel body, matte chrome finish, and zinc die-cast elements, the HEiL Sound PR-40 certainly looks like a top-class microphone. Plus, the technology inside backs up the imaging. The cardioid pickup pattern is ideal for broadcast-style audio, capturing sound from directly in front of the microphone and to the immediate sides. A built-in Sorbothane shock mount reduces the risk of interference, and this design includes a pair of mesh screens to improve sound quality. For added peace of mind, this model comes with a three-year limited warranty.
Highlighted Features
- Shielded to prevent pickup of ambient noise from video monitors or lighting fixtures.
- Wide dynamic range when capturing loud sounds such as musical performances.
Prices
$349
FIFINE T669: The best offer in accessories
While a more rudimentary microphone with minimal audio accessories may work for some, others may want to go for a full home studio microphone setup. This FIFINE model includes a quality microphone as well as plenty of standard accessories for under $100. The home studio kit comes with an adjustable scissor arm for versatility and precise placement. The included dual pop filter is designed to reduce airflow immediately toward the instrument, minimizing audio “pops” while recording. The package comes with a microphone tripod for those who so desire.
Highlighted Features
- It comes with a stand, boom arm, pop filter and USB cable.
Prices
List Price: $59.99
