USB and streaming microphones

USB and streaming microphones plug straight into a computer or games console, so there is no separate audio interface to buy. The range covers PC, podcast, studio, table and lavalier microphones for streamers, podcasters, home workers and gamers. Brands include MAONO, GENESIS, Logitech, ENDORFY, Shure and Razer.

How to choose a USB or streaming microphone

Pickup pattern. A cardioid or unidirectional microphone picks up sound from the front and reduces keyboard clatter and room noise, which suits streaming and podcasting at a desk. An omnidirectional microphone hears the whole room, which is better for a group call around a table. Both patterns are available in our range.

Connection. Most models use USB and work with a computer without extra hardware. Some have a 3.5 mm jack or both USB and 3.5 mm, and a few combine XLR with USB so you can start on a computer and move to a mixer later. If you plan to use a console, check that the microphone is listed as compatible, as some models are sold specifically as game console microphones.

Sound specifications. Sample rate shows how finely the signal is captured. Our range includes 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz models, which are enough for calls and streaming, and 96 kHz and 192 kHz models for recording music or voice-overs. Frequency response matters less for speech, since many voice microphones cover roughly 50 to 16000 Hz, while some studio-oriented models reach 20 to 20000 Hz. Sensitivity is listed in dB, and a value closer to zero (for example -27 dB compared with -40 dB) means a more sensitive microphone that needs less gain.

Type and setup. A desktop microphone with a stand is the simplest choice for streaming. A lavalier microphone clips to clothing and suits presenting or moving around. Cable length also varies from 1.5 m to 3 m, so measure the distance between your computer and the place where the microphone will sit.

USB and streaming microphone brands we carry

• MAONO: a brand focused on affordable USB microphones for streaming, podcasting and online meetings, and the largest in this category.
• GENESIS: a gaming peripherals brand, so its microphones are aimed at streamers and players who also use its headsets and keyboards.
• Logitech: known for webcams, headsets and gaming peripherals, which makes its microphones easy to match with the rest of a streaming setup.
• ENDORFY: a Polish brand that grew out of PC cooling and cases, and now makes gaming accessories including microphones.
• Shure: a long-established professional audio company, famous for stage and studio microphones such as the SM58 and SM7B.
• Razer: a gaming brand whose Seiren microphones are made for streamers who want a desktop microphone with a gamer-style look.
• RØDE: an Australian manufacturer known for studio, broadcast and podcasting microphones.
• Trust: a Dutch brand that makes everyday computer accessories, including simple microphones for calls and light streaming.

Also in our range: HP INC., TRACER, SANDBERG and EQUIP.

USB microphone FAQ

Do I need an audio interface for a USB microphone?

No, a USB microphone has its own built-in converter and connects directly to a computer. You only need an audio interface for microphones with an XLR output. Models that offer both XLR and USB let you choose either way.

Is a cardioid or omnidirectional microphone better for streaming?

A cardioid microphone is usually better for streaming because it focuses on your voice and rejects sound from the sides and rear. An omnidirectional microphone is more useful when several people share one microphone, such as in a meeting room.

What sample rate do I need for a streaming microphone?

A sample rate of 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz is enough for streaming, gaming chat and video calls. Higher rates such as 96 kHz or 192 kHz are mainly useful if you record music or voice-overs and plan to edit them afterwards.

Can I use a USB microphone with a games console?

Some can, but not all. Look for a microphone described as compatible with your console, or one sold as a game console microphone. Check the connection type as well, since a few models use a 3.5 mm jack rather than USB.