The 13 Best Microphones for YouTube Content Creators

I make helpful tutorial videos (and the occasional vlog) for YouTube. I know how important it is to get the best microphone for YouTube, as you will create content other people will watch and listen to.

In reality, audio quality is just as important, if not more important, than video quality. Most can watch a low-quality video with high-quality audio, but not vice versa. As such, the internal audio on your camera, webcam, or iPhone is unacceptable if you’re serious about creating engaging content.

You need an external microphone, so which one is best? Let’s get into the breakdown on the best microphones for YouTube.

Consider the Content You’ll Be Recording for YouTube

It’s essential to consider the YouTube content you’ll be making, as the style will dictate the best microphone for YouTube. From interviews to YouTube shorts to travel content. There are both optimal cameras for YouTube as well as microphones.

No microphone is perfect for all situations, so depending on how you make your videos will determine the best microphone for YouTube.

Types of microphones for YouTube

As a YouTuber, there are four categories of microphones I would categorize external microphones into:

On-camera microphones – Also known as a shotgun mic, these can be mounted onto a camera and plugged in directly. This is the simplest option for leveling up your audio. Plug the mic in, mount it on top or position it close to you; using a cheap boom arm and you’re done.

USB Microphones – Plug-and-play devices that can connect directly to your laptop. You need a USB mic for any on-screen recording.

XLR Microphones – These are professional condenser microphones requiring an audio interface. Ideal for a professional podcast setup.

Wireless Lapel Mics – Wireless lapel microphones are tiny microphones that can attach to you directly (or hold in your hand and speak into. They provide quality audio, allow you to sit away from the camera and are great for interview content or talking head videos.

The Best Microphones for YouTube

From studio recording with an XLR microphone to a travel vlog or YouTube video recording in your bedroom with a budget camera, here are my top YouTube microphone purchase suggestions:

Rhode Video Mic Pro+ – The best shotgun microphone

The Video Mic Pro provides the best audio quality of any on-camera mic I’ve used. This is my current microphone I use for all my YouTube videos.

Rode VideoMic Pro+ Camera-Mount Shotgun Microphone,Black

Video Mic Pro+

Excellent mic that picks up your voice, good sound isolation and handy features like turning on and off automatically with your camera.

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It comes built with its own wind filter, automatically turns on when you turn your camera on so you don’t end up recording video content with the microphone off, is outstanding at blocking out unwanted noise from your recording environment and has a long battery life.

The only slight issue with the Rhode Video Mic Pro is that it is a bit large, so if you’re looking for something for on-the-go, you may want to consider a smaller mic. It’s also one of the more expensive options. But if you’re looking for the best microphone for YouTube, this is what I use for my videos.

Features I like

It’s plug-and-play and features three settings on the back to control the signal output level. You can set it to -10, 0, or +20. This adjusts how sensitive the microphone is. A +20 setting is what you would want to use in a quiet environment and a -10 for a situation with a noisy background.

You can also turn a high pass filter on and off, which helps reduce low-frequency noise. Get this microphone if you want professional audio, and play around with the settings to see what you like best.

Pros:

• One of the best shotgun mics you can buy.
• Excellent external microphone for recording YouTube videos in a studio or outside.
• Great sound quality from this classic choice.
• When plugged into your camera it turns on and off automatically with your camera.

Cons:

• A bit big and bulky. Good for talking head style content.
• One of the more expensive microphone options.
• Needs to be charged independently.
• For best results, you’ll want to position the microphone close to you.

Shure MV7 USB – The best USB microphone

The Shure MV7 is the best USB microphone I’ve ever used. From screen capture content using OBS to interviews over Zoom, it has the highest quality audio compared to the competition.

Shure MV7 USB Microphone for Podcasting, Recording, Live Streaming & Gaming, Built-in Headphone Output, All Metal USB/XLR Dynamic Mic, Voice-Isolating Technology, TeamSpeak & Zoom Certified – Black

Shure MV7

The MV7 is a USB version of their popular XLR podcasting version.

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You get a small microphone with a premium build and a wind muff to help reduce your plosives. It also comes with software to adjust the sound profile (specifically the highs and lows), and you can adjust the mic sensitivity.

On top of that, this USB microphone comes with a USB-C wire, a traditional USB wire as well as an XLR connection. If you want to the flexibility to connect it with an audio interface or your laptop directly you can.

This is the microphone I personally use for recording all of my YouTube video tutorial content on my laptop. It is easily one of the best microphone for YouTube if you need to do voice over work, tutorials or on screen narration.

Pros:

• The best USB microphone for voice recording. Deep rich sounds.
• Plug and play. Just connect it to your laptop and it works.
• Helpful software to adjust the sound profile.
• A versatile mic with both a USB output, XLR and USB-C connections.

Cons:

• Mic stand not included. It does stand up independently, but I suggest purchasing a separate stand.

Mic stand: This is a must-have. This affordable stand pairs perfectly well with the Shure USB microphone to make recording optimal.

Shure SM7B – The best XLR microphone for podcasting

This is your go-to microphone to create a podcast YouTube channel. From the Joe Rogan Experience to countless other shows, you’ll almost always see a Sure SM7B on display.

Shure SM7B Dynamic Vocal Microphone

Shure SM7B

XLR microphone that professional podcasters use. Deep, rich sounding audio you’ll love.

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It provides superior audio quality when compared to its USB version. However, you will need several additional items if you choose the XLR route. First, you’ll need a sound mixer or a USB audio interface, and then you’ll need a high-quality XLR cable.

On the back of this mic are a few switches. The first is a low cut filter which will reduce the low end of the recording and the other switch is a presence boost which will increase the higher end of the recording.

Unlike the USB version that has an added XLR connection, the SM7B is strictly an XLR microphone with no way to plug it into a computer directly via a USB connection. Overall this is one of the best microphones for YouTube if you’re looking for an XLR connection.

Pros:

• One of the best dynamic microphones you can buy.
• Perfect for a podcast.
• Deep rich sound.

Cons:

• You’ll need a lot of extra gear to get this microphone setup properly.
• Not designed for singing.

DJI Wireless Micophone – The go-to wireless mic

You’ll see this microphone all the time in short form interview content. It’s small, comes with a wind muff and has an option to turn on noise cancelling.

With the DJI Wireless microphone you get two mics and one receiver, so doing an interview/podcast with a budget setup is quite possible. It’s small, but not the smallest option.

But for me, I’ve found this to be the right balance of size and audio quality.

DJI Mic 2, Wireless Lavalier Microphone, Noise Cancelling, 48kHz 32-bit Float Internal Recording, 820 ft.(250m) Range, 18H Battery with Charging Case, Microphone for Camera/Phone, Vlog, Streaming

DJI Wireless Mic 2

Quality 32 bit audio from a wireless microphone that pairs with a wide array of cameras easily.

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The receiver outputs audio in a way that supports stereo recording by default. Meaning one transmitter’s audio goes to the left channel and the other to the right channel.

If you connect the receiver to a device like a camera, phone, or computer that records in stereo, you’ll get both mics captured in a single stereo file, with each mic on it’s own distinct channel. For most this is totally fine and makes editing easy.

If you want to get each mic on its own completely separate audio track, you’d typically need to split that stereo file in post-production using software like Audacity.

Pros:

• High quality audio with 32-bit.
• Effective noise cancellation.
• Versatile Connectivity.
• Good battery life and convenient charger.

Cons:

• Excessive branding – come on DJI, people don’t need to see your logo everywhere on camera.
• Good audio quality but not on par with a shot gun mic.

Rhode Wireless Go – Best lapel mic for YouTube

This is an incredibly helpful, wireless microphone system to help you record YouTube videos. It is designed to be used on any camera body (DSLR or mirrorless cameras) or even your iPhone.

RØDE Wireless Go II Dual Channel Wireless System with Built-in Microphones with Analogue and Digital USB Outputs, Compatible with Cameras, Windows and MacOS computers, iOS and Android phones

Rhode Wireless Go

High quality audio from a wireless microphone system that pairs with a wide array of cameras easily.

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You get two transmitter boxes. One can be plugged into your camera by attaching it to the shoe mount or your phone by using an adapter that can plug into the lighting port. The other transmitter can then be attached to you directly as a microphone. You are picking up your voice even if you’re far away from the camera.

Even better, if you don’t want to use the Rhode Wireless Go transmitter box as a microphone you don’t have to as you can plug a cheap lapel mic to the transmitter box. This is advantageous as you can keep the transmiter box in your pocket while you hide the lapel microphone in your clothing.

Pros:

• A complete wireless microphone system.
• Can be paired with a lav mic with ease.
• A huge range, you can be far away from the camera.
• Can record independently of any camera.

Cons:

• No charger included.
• Audio quality is good but not great.

Shure MV88+ – The best microphone for iPhone

This portable microphone is an industry-leading sound device with a top mounting architecture that produces rich sounding, stereo audio.

Shure MV88+ Video Kit – Digital Stereo Condenser Microphone for Apple and Android, with Manfrotto PIXI Tripod, Phone Clamp, Mount, iOS and USB-C Cables for Next-Level Compatibility and Connectivity

Shure MV88+

The MV88+ is an update to the popular MV88. The audio is improved and you can now buy it as a complete vlogging kit.

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It connects to any iPhone (or iPad) equipped with a Lightning connector. You can immediately begin capturing recordings while using your phone. Its 90-degree hinge and built-in rotation also provide useful flexibility as well.

If you’re using an iPhone, the MV88+ from Shure is the best microphone for recording audio as part of your YouTube video creation workflow. There is no comparable choice.

The internal audio of your iPhone is good enough in most instances if you have the primary camera of the iPhone pointed at you, but with the Shure MV88, you get a deep, rich, professional sound.

If you’re creating vlogs with your iPhone, getting this small microphone and tripod package levels up the audio quality of the content you produce. On top of that, it comes with helpful software to help you adjust the recording of the audio quality to your liking by changing the treble and bass.

What about the MV88?

I really like the original version of the MV88, it’s perfect if you want to hand hold your iPhone but you want improved audio. The only issue is that the MV88+ is replacing the older version so it’s difficult to find.

Pros:

• This device makes a world of difference for audio recorded with an iPhone.
• Plug and play. It just works without needing any complicated setup.
• The MV88+ kit is a tripod, microphone kit. Great if you want to do talking head videos.

Cons:

• Adds bulkiness to a light iPhone setup, but if you want a grip and mic combo, then this is great. You could swap the tripod out for something else with a screw mount.

Small iPhone tripod – The tripod and shooting grip I use with my iPhone. It’s cheap, small and light. Pairs perfectly with the MV88.

Sennheiser MKH 416 – Best professional studio mic

The MKH 416 is a versatile, directional microphone, perfect for film production as well as radio broadcasts. It durable and built to be used on a boom pool either outside or indoors.

Sennheiser Wired Professional MKH 416-P48U3 Short Shotgun Interference Tube Microphone,Black

MKH 416

Film quality microphone with a price point to match. Needs additional equipment to get optimal performance.

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The compact size of this microphone and superior sound quality make it ideal for all recording environments. Its high directivity ensures excellent articulation of consonants while providing superior feedback rejection.

It is the best microphone for YouTube if you’re setting up a proper studio recording environment for your content creation. Please note that with your purchase, you’re only getting the microphone and wind filter.

You’ll also want to buy:

• A shock mount.
• XLR cable.
• Audio interface.
• Boom arm.

Overall, this is one of the best microphones for YouTube talking head videos in some sort of studio setup. The sound quality out of this shotgun mic needs little to no post-processing and is the top choice of both film makers and pro YouTubers.

Please be aware though that you’ll need a complicated setup as I laid out which is quite expensive. This is why I recommend the Rhode Video Mic Pro as it gets you 90% there with audio quality without being an overly expensive or complicated audio setup.

Pros:

• One of the best microphones for YouTube.
• Designed and intended for professional studios.
• Sound quality needs minimal post editing.

Cons:

• Requires phantom power.
• Long and bulky, it’s not designed for casual use.
• Very expensive.

Sennheiser MKE 400 – Best vlogging shotgun mic

While I use and recommend the Rhode Video Mic Pro for anyone recording YouTube videos with a mirrorless camera (or DSLR), there is no denying that it is a bit bulky.

Sennheiser Professional MKE 400 Directional On-Camera Shotgun Microphone with 3.5mm TRS and TRRS Connectors for DSLR, Mirrorless & Mobile , Connects with Auxiliary

MKE 400

If you want the best alternative microphone then take a look at the MKE 400.

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It’s smaller and sleeker than the Video Mic Pro and provides a similar quality of sound (actually, some say it sounds better than the Rhode). I would suggest this mic if you’re going to be doing on-the-go recording for YouTube videos and want a high quality external mic for your camera that produces excellent audio quality. Also, you can connect this microphone to your iPhone as well using an adapter.

Pros:

• My favorite alternative to the Video Mic Pro.
• Smaller, more modern build. Ideal for out door recording.
• Polar pattern for audio.
• Ideal size for smaller camera bodies
• A great choice if you’re going to vlog with your camera outside.

Cons:

• Like all polar pattern mics, when the camera and microphone are facing away from you the audio sounds poor.

Zoom H2N – The best multi-purpose, versatile microphone

The Zoom H2N Handy Recorder tops the list because it’s the most flexible, multi-purpose microphone. You can pair this microphone with a USB connection to your laptop or computer, buy a wire, and attach it to your DSLR (or mirrorless) camera for rich-sounding audio.

Zoom H2n Stereo/Surround-Sound Portable Recorder, 5 Built-In Microphones, X/Y, Mid-Side, Surround Sound, Ambisonics Mode, Records to SD Card, For Recording Music, Audio for Video, and Interviews

Zoom H2N

A microphone that can connect to a camera, be used as a USB microphone or as a stand-a-lone mic.

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You can even use this as a stand-alone recording device for interviews and on-the-go podcasts, as it’s battery-powered (when not plugged in via USB) and can save the audio recording directly.

This microphone is the most feature-rich device on this list as it has multi-channel functionality because it has eight mini microphones built into it; you can easily change the sound pattern.

Overall, it’s a useful multi-purpose, “jack of all trades” microphone if you’re looking for one device to use with both your camera, laptop as well as independently by itself in a podcasting, interview type setup.

Pros:

• High-quality audio.
• It works with cameras, laptops, and computers and can be a stand-alone recording device.
• Multiple sound profiles. Everything from omnidirectional to super-cardioid
• Built-in mic gain.
• Headphone output.

Cons:

• The accessory kit comes separately and is an essential buy.
• Does many things well, but not not superior in one audio setting.

Accessory Kit: You’ll want to purchase this as it includes a wind muff, a remote, and a helpful little tripod for the mic.

Rhode NT USB – Best mid-range USB condenser microphone

The Rode NT-USB microphone is one of the most effective USB microphones, outperforming a lot of other USB mics in the $200+ range (not including the Shure MV7, that’s a better but more expenisve microphone).

RØDE NT-USB+ Professional-Grade USB Condenser Microphone For Recording Studio Quality Audio Directly To A Computer Or Mobile Device, Black

Rhode NT USB

A good mid range option if you’re looking for an alternative to the expensive Shure USB mic.

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It delivers high-quality sound without requiring special drivers or additional 3rd party equipment like a good interface. It is well-built and can pair with a boom arm.

The overall design is well-planned and includes a handy headphone monitor to test your audio and adequate controls. It also comes with a well-fitted and essential pop shield and a decent desk mount at no extra cost. While there are certainly less expensive microphones, the Rhode NT USB is a solid mid-range podcasting microphone.

Pros:

• It comes with a stand and a pop filter to reduce your plosives.
• Plug-and-play functionality without needing any additional devices.
• It has a helpful desktop stand and can pair with a boom arm.

Cons:

• The audio is good, but this microphone is inferior with sound compared to the Shure.

Audio Technica AT2020 XLR – The Affordable Podcasting Option

The Audio Technica AT2020 is a podcasting-friendly condenser microphone where the audio sounds premium and detailed. It’s ideal for any digital recording, like narration or voiceovers, but it shines as a budget podcasting mic.

Audio-Technica Microphone AT2020 Pro Cardioid Capacitor, Black,Large, XLR

AT2020 XLR

My favorite alternative podcasting and vocal mic to the expensive Shure XLR mic.

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I do prefer the sound out of the Shure, but it’s only a slight difference. The Audio Technica made my list because when comparing the price points and overall sound quality, the Audio Technica provides a lot of value.

Last, you can plug your headphones into the microphone to observe and fix real-time audio distortions. I suggest purchasing a pop filter for this mic, which can be sensitive. As an XLR mic it does need phantom power and of course you’ll need to purchase an XLR cable.

Pros:

• Excellent audio and build quality.
• Cost effective and ideal for speaking.
• Comes with a stand mount.

Cons:

• Like most XLR microphones, you’ll need additional gear like an XLR cable, audio interface, pop filter and so forth to use this mic.

Boya BY-M1 – Super budget but really good

If you need a lav mic for your camera, laptop, or iPhone then you’ll love the Boya BY-M1.

It’s a cheap microphone that produces audio quality far above it’s pay grade. It comes with it’s own internal pop filter and is a good choice for YouTube recording if you don’t want to go the wireless route.

BOYA BY-M1 3.5mm Electret Condenser Microphone with 1/4″ adapter for Smartphones iPhone DSLR Cameras PC

BY-M1

A great sounding, cheap wired lavalier mic. Perfect if you’re not wanting a wireless setup.

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This mic can connect to your devices directly with the included cables. It can also pair with the Rhode Wireless Go, making it an effective combination for recording YouTube videos as it can produce professional-level sound.

Yes there are more expensive lav mics, but I always come back to the Boya By-M1 because it just sounds so good and it’s so cheap. Making it the best microphone for YouTube if you need a lav mic.

Pros:

• Sound quality that is far better than you would expect.
• Can easily hide within your clothing.
• Works with multiple devices. From cameras, to iPhones to the Rhode Wirelss Go.

Cons:

• Has a very long wire. Great if you plan on sitting far away from the camera, not great otherwise. You may need an adapter to plug this into certain devices as it has a 3.5mm connection.

Maybesta Wireless Lav Mic – Cheap (but good) wireless mic for the iPhone

The Maybesta is a plug and play, wireless microphone system that has a transmiter that can plug directly into your iPhone via the lightening port and then the actual microphone can attach to your shirt.

The sound quality is average, but it is a step up from the internal audio of the iPhone and it’s wireless. Also, no over the top branding like DJI.

MAYBESTA Professional Wireless Lavalier Lapel Microphone for iPhone, iPad – Cordless Omnidirectional Condenser Recording Mic for Interview Video Podcast Vlog YouTube

Maybesta Wireless Lav Mic

A decent wireless mic with good range. Cheap and the best wireless option for iPhone users.

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The unique selling point of this option among various lavalier mics is that it is wireless so if you’re needing a wireless omnidirectional microphone for your iPhone this is your best choice. It comes with a built in battery an lasts 4.5 hours when fully charged.

Pros:

• A great plug and play wireless mic that connects directly to your iPhone via the lighting port.

Cons:

• Audio is good but not great. It’s acceptable if you’re looking for a wireless mic to pair with your iPhone.

HyperX Quad Cast S – The video game streamers mic

The HyperX QuadCast is the ideal all-in-one microphone for pro streamers or budding podcasters searching for a condenser mic with high sound quality and a stylish, colorful look.

HyperX QuadCast S RGB USB Condenser Microphone with Shock Mount for Gaming, Streaming, Podcasts

Quad Cast S

The Quad Cast S has an anti-vibration shock mount and a built-in pop filter to help dampen loud plosives. Colorful design for in-video use.

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This is the ultimate mic for gaming. It has four adjustable polar patterns and a conveniently located gain control dial that allows you to alter your microphone input sensitivity quickly. The included mount adapter fits 3/8″ and 5/8″ thread sizes and is compatible with most stands.

Last, this USB mic is validated by Discord and TeamSpeak, so you may rest confident that your microphone will broadcast loudly to all your fans and listeners. It may also be monitored in real-time thanks to the handy headphone jack on the back of the mic.

Pros:

• A condenser microphone designed with the pro gamer in mind.
• Helpful recording features, adjustable polar patterns, and simple controls.
• Colorful design that fits most setups.

Cons:

• Build quality could be better. Other mics on this list at this price point are made out of metal, not plastic.

Hollyland Lark M2 – Best small mic for the price

The Hollyland Lark M2 is a super compact, wireless microphone system designed for someone who need high-quality audio in a tiny, user-friendly package with minimal branding that won’t break the proverbial bank.

HyperX QuadCast S RGB USB Condenser Microphone with Shock Mount for Gaming, Streaming, Podcasts

Hollyland Lark M2

The Lark M2 is very small, has a competitive price, minimal branding and pairs with both cameras and your phone.

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One thing I love about this audio system/kit – whatever you want to call it is that it comes together as a total package.

A receiver with a 3.5mm TRS output and a cold-shoe mount for DSLRs/mirrorless cameras and a USB-C or Lightning connectors for smartphones.

The receivers are also small, with the camera one featuring a basic LCD screen and buttons for settings, while the mobile ones are plug-and-play with no display.

Just make sure you buy the combo package if you need both. In short this mic is perfect for someone wanting a cheap wireless microphone that has good (but not great) audio.

Pros:

• Very small and compact.
• Finally a discreet option. Minimal branding and easy to hide.
• The price, not budget, but not too pricey.

Cons:

• No internal recording on the mic. If the sound cuts out, there is no on-board audio backup.
• Susceptible to wind noise.
• No advanced pro features like time code syncing or 32-bit floating recording.
• Not great for long distance recording.

FAQ

Best microphones for YouTube – Conclusion

That’s it for this guide on the best microphones for YouTube. You have a wide range of options depending on what you want to do. From quality on-camera shot gun mics, to USB or podcasting mics and even iPhone microphones.

For what I use for my content creation process is the Rhode Video Mic Pro+ for all my “talking head” shots, the Shure MV7 USB mic for my on-screen tutorials or really any voice work I’m doing with my laptop and the Shure MV88 when recording with my iPhone.

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