Headset and microphone stands hold a microphone or a pair of headphones at your desk, within reach and off the work surface. This category suits streamers, podcasters, gamers and home-office workers. Our range includes stands and arms from RØDE, Elgato, Razer and Thermaltake.
How to choose a headset or microphone stand
Stand type. A boom arm clamps to the desk edge and swings the microphone over your keyboard and out of the way, which keeps it close to your mouth and frees desk space. A weighted desktop stand needs no clamping but takes up room. A headset stand is a separate holder for headphones and does not position a microphone at all.
Desk mounting. Check the thickness of your desk top and whether there is clear space beneath the edge for a clamp. Very thin boards, glass tops and desks pushed against a wall can limit your options. Some arms can instead be fitted through a hole in the desk.
Microphone weight and thread. Most microphones attach with a 5/8 inch or 3/8 inch thread, and small adapters between the two are common. Heavy broadcast microphones need a sturdier arm than a light USB microphone, so compare the stated load capacity with the weight of your microphone plus any shock mount.
Reach and adjustability. A longer arm covers more of the desk but needs a firm clamp to stay steady. Look for joints that hold their position without drooping, and for a way to route the cable along the arm so it stays out of view on camera.
Stability for headsets. A headset stand should have a base heavy enough that a large over-ear gaming headset does not tip it over. Check that the arm or hook is wide enough to support the headband without squeezing it.
Headset and microphone stand brands we carry
- RØDE: an Australian audio manufacturer known for studio and broadcast microphones, which makes its arms a natural match for its own microphones.
- Elgato: known for streaming and content-creation gear such as capture cards, Stream Deck controllers and microphones.
- Razer: a gaming brand best known for headsets, keyboards and mice, with a growing line of streaming microphones.
- Thermaltake: known for PC cases, cooling and power supplies, as well as gaming accessories for the desk.
Frequently asked questions
What is a microphone boom arm?
A microphone boom arm is an adjustable, jointed stand that clamps to the edge of a desk and holds a microphone in front of you. You can swing it away when you are not recording. It keeps the microphone off the desk, which also reduces the vibration from typing and knocking.
Do I need a boom arm for a USB microphone?
No, a USB microphone works fine on its own desktop stand. A boom arm is still worth considering if you want the microphone closer to your mouth or need more desk space. Check that the arm can carry the weight of your particular microphone.
Will any stand fit my microphone?
Not automatically, but most do. Microphones use either a 5/8 inch or a 3/8 inch mounting thread, and inexpensive adapters convert between them. Some microphones have a built-in mount that suits only certain stands, so check your microphone's manual first.
Why does my boom arm sag?
A boom arm usually sags because the microphone is heavier than the arm is designed to hold, or because the joints need tightening. Check the load capacity of the arm and adjust the tension screws. If the arm still droops, a lighter microphone or a sturdier arm is the fix.
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