So, what are the best microphones for YouTube?
1. The Guide to Microphone Types for YouTube Content
1.1. Sensitivity and Studio Quality of Condenser Microphones
Most YouTubers will opt for condenser microphones, specifically if they record in an environment were sounds can be controlled.
The mics ares very sensitive, and will catch the smallest details of your voice. Using a condenser mic for the first time — I can still recall how glorious my voice sounded.
And yet, this amount of sensitivity can be a double-edged sword. They could even detect with excessive work noise, so if your recording in a busy place you may be have to have another think. But in a quiet room? They’re absolutely fantastic!
1.2. Dynamic Microphones: Tough and Versatile
Dynamic microphones are the microphone equivalent of a tank. They are designed to be well-suited for recording music or outdoor events, as they can handle a high sound level without distortion.
You have no idea how many times I’ve seen a student drop their SM57 or 58 on tile and everything is fine but the mic body.
While they do not need phantom power like condenser mics and are therefore less sensitive — a positive if you happen to be recording in an untreated room.
This is a dynamic microphone and I have used it in some pretty noisy cafes without too much background noise infecting the quality of my voice.Readmore:Best Bluetooth Headphones in India
1.3. USB Microphones: No-Muss, No-Fuss Plug-and-Play
While USB microphones are the new kids on the block, they have since become relatively popular with vloggers.
The best thing about them? They’re super easy to use. Simply plug them in to your computer and you’re up running! No additional hardware required and no installation needed.
When I first started, struggling with audio interfaces and XLR cables. However, when I got a USB mic, things felt just so much easier.
Okay, so they might not be quite as excellent in terms of quality compared to a top-of-the-line XLR mic — but for the vast majority of YouTubers who are just starting out: more than adequate.
2. These are the things that you need to watch out for before deciding your YouTube Microphone
2.1. 1. Audio Excellence and Frequency Response
YouTube cares more about how you sound than what they see. Okay, I know viewers can forgive bad video but BAD AUDIO? You will lose subscribers faster than you can say safe unsubscribe.
Seek out the widest frequency response microphone available. This makes it sensitive to a very wide range of frequencies, everything from deep bass tones up through the trebles.
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I remember before using a cheap microphone with only 12 – KHz in frequency, which made my videos sound high pitchy and irritating to the ears. That same paper-thin, tinny sound was now rich and full thanks to an improved frequency response in the new mic.
2.2. Polar Patterns and Directionality
Types of Pickup Patterns: Microphones are available with different types of pickup patterns that define in which direction sound is captured. The main types are:
Cardioid (H): This type of pickup pattern records the front.sound
- Non-directional: It picks up sound from every direction
- Cardioid: Front and rear sound capture * Bidirectional: Sound…front to back
Cardioid pattern: this will be ideal for most YouTube videos. It great for your voice with background noise reduction.
I work with a cardioid microphone for my videos and it tends to capture just me, especially when the neighbors dog decides to bark halfway through speaking!
2.3. Recording Setup Compatibility
Check that the microphone you choose will work with your set up before buying it. A USB mic could be the most convenient pick, if you are recording on a computer.
However, if you using a camera or external recorder then an XLR microphone may be required.
This is a lesson I learned the hard way after buying an XLR mic some time ago, not thinking about needing an audio interface to plug it into my computer.
Trust me, you do not want to go through that migraine headache so double check before commiting your order.
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