What is needed to start streaming?
You could start game streaming with the help of any modern digital device but it is the quality of the video and sound for your audience that matters the most. A bunch of technical aids such as cameras, hardware encoders, notebooks, microphones play a vital role in achieving the desired level of quality streaming.
Gaming microphones make for the most sought for products by live streamers in the market, and this is because it is critically important that quality voice reaches the audience while streaming.
Do I need a mic to stream on Twitch?
Yes! Words and voice have huge credibility while live streaming. If your audience does not receive quality audio, it fails the whole purpose of livestreaming. It is because of this compulsion that every streamer must own the best microphones for livestreaming on Twitch or YouTube. People often keep asking to suggest a budget/starter microphone for streaming. We are here with the answers.
In this article, we will try to see some of the best gaming microphones for live streaming on Twitch & YouTube.
So, let's get started.
- Part 1: Top 8 Microphones for Twitch Gaming Streaming You Should Know
- Part 2: The 7 Best Micros for Live Streaming on YouTube You Can't Miss
Top 8 Microphones for Twitch Gaming Streaming You Should Know
Here we shall discuss details about the top 8 microphones for live Twitch streaming on available in the market. We shall inform you about the prices and features that all these microphones offer to the users so that you can make a smart purchase.
#1. Blue Yeti X
If budget is not a problem with you Blue Yeti X is the pure joy to streamers. The blue yeti X is a hybrid model of the nano and the original Yeti and is among the best microphones for twitch streaming. The microphone comes with an LED-lit panel at the front which helps in monitoring your volume level while operating. The high-end sound quality is the reason Blue Yeti X is the first preference for most of the professional streamers.
Price: $200
Pros:
- Top-notch sound quality
- Smart knob control and LED front panel
- Bidirectional, omnidirectional, cardioid and stereotype polar pattern
- Voice software for flexible use
Cons:
- Micro USB
- Expensive
#2. SAMSON G TRACK Pro
A double-track audio mixing and the option to choose from different recording patterns are the reasons that we have this microphone in the top ten devices on the list. Compatible with MAC and Windows computers, the SAMSON G TRACK Pro is an easy to use USB mic which does not rely on any extra software to function.
Top dollar audio quality and with a sturdiness that ensures long product life, it is certainly a device that has gained a huge user base in the market.
Price: $129.99
Pros:
- Multiple polar patterns
- Mixing control
- Compatible with Mac and Windows computers
Cons:
- Weak support
#3. Blue Yeti Nano
Blue Yeti Nano is preferred by both the YouTube streamers and the Twitch users. It has all the options to choose from recording options such as omnidirectional, stereo recording patterns, omnidirectional, cardioid, bidirectional, or stereo recording patterns.
It can be easily connected with both Mac and Windows computers. The device also supports quick control over the sound. Moreover, options such as a headphone output, zero-latency make it the ultimate device for live streaming for one and all.
Price: $116.49
Pros:
- Good sound quality
- Quite convenient to use
- Lightweight and flexible design
Cons:
- Only Cardioid and omnidirectional polar pattern
#4. Blue Snowball
The option of Blue Snowball to connect to a computer via a USB port makes the setup process quick and easy. Another specialty of this device is the option to choose the omnidirectional pattern or the cardioid pattern as per your requirement. The cardioid pattern only captures the sound that comes straight into the mic while the other option captures sound from every possible background direction. Such a feature sets this microphone apart from other variables in the market.
Price: $55.30
Pros:
- Plug and play feature
- Affordable price
Cons:
- No control button.
- Lack a few features compared to other competitor mics
#5. Elgato wave 3
The Elgato wave 3 microphones are designed for the streamer and gamers who need to have a noise-free voice while streaming. This tool can be imported into OBS and X split allowing you to have more command over your streaming voice. The features like capacitive Mute, volume control, cardioids polar patterns are a few features that make the Elgato waves standout.
Price: $160
Pros:
- Volume and gain control
- Easy to access the mute button
Cons:
- Only cardioid pattern
#6. Turtle beach USB stream MIC
Looking for an alternative to Razer microphone? Try using Turtle beach USB stream MIC. The universal digital USB Stream Mic offers the gamer a perfect voice quality. The features like ear focused software, inbuilt headphone amplifier, and voice level mixing makes the turtle beach USB stream MIC a must have device for streamers.
The tool lets you preset and customizes the voice level with the Ear forced Audio Hub. The digital processor and universal USB - based system make the mic one of the most attractive MIC available.
Price: $275
Pros:
- Ear force software for great user experience
- Zero latency with plug and play compatibility feature
Cons:
- Voice recording feature needs improvement
#7. HyperX Quadcast
The HyperX Quadcast being a renowned name in the gamer’s world for best gaming devices has come up with its wonderful microphone HyperX Quadcast. With built-in red pop filter and quick access to the mute button at the capping top, a LED light to indicate the mute and live status all these features make HyperX Quadcast a perfect accessory.
With 4 separate cardioid polar pattern selections, anti-vibration shock mount, easy gain control adjustment, and mount adapter, the device is a perfect option for quality twitch gaming or streaming sound experience.
Price: $269.90
Pros:
- Built-in Shock mount
- Convenient to use
- Quick access touch mute button
Cons:
- Needs experience with device to set best sound adjustment
#8. Rode NT USB
The Rode NT USB comes from the brand that has always been the favorite in the market. A pop filter for softening the hard b, t, or p sounds is a great addition to the device. It also gives you the power to begin recording instantly by simply connecting it with a USB, thus sparing you the horror of an exhausting setup. The mix control option in the mic enables you to smoothly balance between your voice and the game sound.
Price: $169.00
Pros:
- Great audio support
- On mic mix control and Pop filter
Cons:
- Tripod feature is not much stable
The 7 Best Micros for Live Streaming on YouTube You Can't Miss
Live streaming on YouTube has a huge fan base. We shall now discuss top microphones in the market for live streaming on YouTube and shall consider their pros and cons.
#1. Razer serin X
An unmatched frequency range starting from 20 HZ extending up to 20 kHz singles out this piece of technology from all the other options available in the market. Another major factor that makes Razer serin X unique is a brilliant sharp angle audio recording quality with the Cardioid pickup pattern.
A mere shortcoming might be the fact that the microphone does record interference (background noises), especially if you are working on the keyboard while the broadcasting is on.
Price: 99.00
Pros:
- Clear audio quality
- Built-in shock mount
- No echo let you hear your sound pretty much clear
Cons:
- Poor noise filter
#2. Antlion Mod Mic 5
If gaming is your prior console then modular microphone like Antlion Mod Mic 5 is the best pick for you. The tools are quite easy to attach with a pair of headphones. The y and USB adapters allow you to use a 3.5mm headphone jack and a microphone jack for the fair quality streaming experience. One of the attractive features of the mic is its ability to choose between noise-canceling and studio recording switch.
Price: $69.95
Pros:
- Mute switches for Modular and toggle
- Easy to use
- Affordable price range
Cons:
- Need headphones
#3. Samson Meteor Mic
Samson Meteor Mic is the best option if you are looking for a microphone that is affordable and supports cardioid microphone. The Samson meteor mic tops the list when it comes to the level of portability that it lends to all and one.
With a size of 3” x 5” x 6”, the device hardly takes any extra space on the desktop. Ability to capture high-quality audio and headphone volume controls are handy options for all live streamers.
Price: $69.99
Pros:
- Portable and small in size
- Folding leg stand
- Mic mute and volume control features
Cons:
- Thin control
#4. Shure MV5 Digital Condenser Microphone
Shure MV5 Digital Condenser Microphone is the perfect tool for ensuring that every live streamer's voice and music reached the listeners in the best possible quality. 3 DSP preset and headphone output gives you a clear idea of your voice sounds to the listeners. It is a major factor that can help you adjust your vocals for better quality for the listeners. Automatic application of EQ and compression yields a better quality of audio.
Price: $99
Pros:
- Automatic control features
- It can work with all Apple devices without the need for any additional adapters
Cons:
- USB cable is short in length
#5. Sony ECM-CS3
Available at a considerably lower price of mere $22.99, Sony ECM-CS3 makes up for the best value for money products when it comes to gaming microphones for live streaming on twitch or YouTube. Just like any other lavalier microphone, it comes with a clip that allows you to easily attach it to your clothing while recording. It also supports computer port connection. 360 degrees clip rotation further gives you access and flexibility to adjust angles for gaining optimum voice loudness and clarity.
Price: $22.99
Pros:
- The attachable clip can be rotated to 360 degree
- Top-notch audio quality
- Low price
Cons:
- Catch noise
#6. Fifine K670 Podcast Microphone
The low budget Fifine K670 Podcast Microphone is best for solo steamers. The clear and flat frequency response ranging from 50Hz to 15 kHz, large-diaphragm condenser, easy to plug in USB connectivity, 3.5mm Jack for zero-latency, and flexible stand all these features contribute to make Fifine K670 podcast USB microphone the best pick for beginners.
Price: $55.99
Pros:
- Detachable metal desktop stand
- Volume control
Cons:
- The stand is short in size
#7. Audio-Technica 2020
Audio-Technica 2020 requires XLR and not require a plug and play. You have to attach it with a mixing board with an XLR cable. Yet despite all the mentioned expenses if you are expecting a professional feel with your mic AT 2020 is for you. Some of the attractive features of this device are frequency response 20Hz to 20KHz, -37db sensitivity, and 120db SPL.
Price: $99
Pros:
- Custom engineered low mass diaphragm
- High SPL handling
Cons:
- Require multiple attachments to work
Having gone through all versatile microphones available in the market, you are free to make your choice. Although, my personal favorites would be Razer Serien X, Blue Yeti, and Fifine K670 owing to the brilliant features that they offer.
We hope that this article helps you make a smart choice after considering the pros and cons of all the options in the market.
