Our Top Picks | Brand and Model |
Best budget headset with mic | Cooler Master MH650 |
Best all-in-one USB microphone | Blue Yeti USB mic |
Best budget XLR microphone | Blue Ember XLR mic |
Best headset mic for Discord | Razer Kraken Ultimate headset |
Best USB microphone for beginners | Audio Technica ATR 2500 X |
Best USB Discord mic for audio quality | HyperX QuadCast USB mic |
Best overall Discord mic | PreSonus Revelator USB C mic |
A microphone is the only device that can offer distortion-free audio. Beginners often ignore the need for superior quality microphones, but those with a larger audience often know that distorted audio or too much bass can affect the streaming experience of their audience.
Live streaming or gaming on Discord leaves no room for post-processing audio inputs. Your audio setup should be able to deliver proper audio quality while streaming live.
Just why dedicated mics, or at least high-quality headphone mics, are necessary for any streaming or setup. Check out the best mics for Discord that you should buy if you want to upgrade your gaming skills into live streaming as well.
Discord Mics: What Should You Look for in Mics?
Microphones are audio devices meant to catch, improve, and relay audio as received from the environment. For gaming, it comes down to catching your vocal audio in the best quality possible.
Mics come in various form factors and design aesthetics. Your choices are between built-in headset mics, USB-powered mics, and XLR microphones.
There are three main devices for every audio recording set up – a microphone, a pre-amp, and an analog-to-digital converter. If you have a microphone capturing audio, you will need the other 2 devices as mentioned above to complete your streaming or gaming setup.
This captured audio signal travels either through a cable or wirelessly, depending upon the setup you have. These signals are inaudible, lying somewhere around -60 and -40 dB. The pre-amp is specifically designed to boost the mic level signal into an audible line-level signal.
This is the reason whenever you have a device that asks for a line in or lines out signal, it’s asking for a line-level signal which must pass through the pre-amp.
Eventually, your audio needs to be converted into a digital signal, which is where the analog-to-digital converter comes into play. Only after the audio is passed through the converter can it be recorded or streamed.
Note: Users often complain that their microphone is not working. A common reason is that they are sending a mic-level signal into a line-level socket!
The cheapest device among the three will be bottlenecking the audio quality. But it starts with using the right mic for your audio setup.
Here are the best Discord mics worth buying today!
7 Best Microphones for Discord
We have brought you a combination of different devices to suit unique needs and purposes, including standalone, XLR, and USB mics. Check them out!
7. Cooler Master MH-650
Best Budget Headset with Mic
Pros
- Above-average audio outputs
- Crisp mic
- Budget buy
Cons
- Tight fit for larger heads
- Headband doesn’t lock
The Cooler Master MH 650 features a headset mic with wired connections. You get a 2.2-meter braided USB cable.
You get a detachable bendable omnidirectional mic. It has a smaller range compared to some other mics we have reviewed below.
It also picks up too much distortion and needs to be kept at a distance of 3 inches. However, we’ve added this headset mic to the list simply because of its clean and crisp output quality. This is one of the best headset mics you can get, especially at this price point.
The headset design features well-cushioned ear cups with LED lighting and a thin aluminum headband to ensure flexible lightweight usage.
Audio controls such as volume and mic-mute buttons are available on the left ear-cups, while the right ear-cup includes controls for surround sound and changing the LED color.
The ear-cup cushions and headband padding are commonly reviewed as comfortable for long gaming sessions. Even the driver’s walls are reinforced with extra padding to ensure it.
Technical Specifications:
Model: MH-650 | Weight: 280 grams | Frequency: 20 – 20,000 Hz | Audio Sensitivity: 107 dB ± 3dB | Size: 7.56 inches x 3.37 inches x 7.54 inches | Connection: USB | Microphone: Omni-directional
Pricing: Around $150
Verdict
Headsets with microphone attachments are best suited for Discord streamers with a budget constraint. MH-650 offers audible and clear audio output with extra bass.
6. Blue Yeti USB Mic
Best All-in-One USB microphone
Pros
- Solid metal base
- High-class audio output
- Four polar patterns
Cons
- Picks static noise
- Cable insertion requires lifting of microphone
Even though Blue Yeti isn’t the latest or flashiest microphone, it’s still one of the most popular microphones of all time. The Blue Yeti is a USB-connected microphone, which means it gives a line signal, that can directly be sent without processing.
This is not a small microphone by any means. This microphone features a sturdy metal stand, a foot tall when it’s set up.
The Blue Yeti is USB compatible with PC and MacBooks right out of the box. It has a built-in pre-amp and analog-to-digital converter, so you do not need any other equipment to start recording.
In short, you can start using this device just as you plug in the USB cable.
The aesthetic design of the Blue Yeti allows for better cable management and its adjustable stand can even double up as a storage unit by compressing the area required to store the mic while traveling.
This microphone does a fantastic job at fusing simplicity with sufficient pro features, high-quality audio outputs, and aesthetics.
The front part carries the Blue logo, a mute button, which flashes red when muted along with a volume adjustment knob.
At the bottom end of the microphone, you get a USB and a headphone jack. You can insert a headphone to check the latency quality audio quality of your mic in real-time.
Technical Specifications:
Model: Yeti | Weight: 1451 grams | Frequency: 20 – 20,000 Hz | Audio Sensitivity: 120 dB | Size: 4.9 inches x 4.7 inches x 11.6 inches | Connection: Corded electric and USB | Microphone: Uni, Bi, and Omni-directional
Pricing: Under $13
Verdict
Given the simplicity in terms of usage, this device is perfect for basic vocal recording, podcasting, live streaming, and Discord streaming.
5. Blue Ember XLR Condenser
Best Budget XLR microphone
Pros
- Effective off-axis rejection
- Versatile capability
- Sleek Design
Cons
- Requires external 48-volt interface
- Will need a pop filter
Blue Ember features a simple setup with a requirement of an audio mixer device, which will be used to customize the audio output.
Blue Ember features a clean metallic design with no buttons or controls on the mic – you only get an XLR cable output. You will have to consider your desk space before purchasing this device, as it will need quite a bit of it, especially with the stand. You will have to use this mic with a sufficiently powerful mixer for the best performance.
Blue Ember is among the slimmest and most functional XLR mics around. With its off-axis audio rejection, you can use this mic for studio-level audio production.
Technical Specifications:
Model: Ember | Weight: 380 grams | Frequency: 20 – 20,000 Hz | Audio Sensitivity: 120 dB | Size: 1.26 inches x 1.5 inches x 8.62 inches | Connection: Corded electric and USB | Microphone: Uni-directional
Pricing: Under $100
Verdict
If you are searching for a microphone to establish a professional audio setup, Blue Ember can fit the bill. We loved the audio quality despite the tight budget.
But this is meant only for experienced users, or ones who can sufficiently operate an audio mixer!
4. Razer Kraken Ultimate RGB
Best Headset Mic for Discord
Pros
- ANC mic with noise filter
- Complementary software
- Outstanding RGB
Cons
- Software works only on Windows 10
- Uni-directional mic
The Razer Kraken Ultimate is one of the most refined headphones with a mic. Also, this is a Discord certified headset and among the more popular ones around!
Razer Kraken Ultimate is specially crafted for PC. It comes with an ANC mic, and you get a lot of customizable features such as bass boost and voice enhancements through Razer Synapse to get the best out of it.
You also get to enjoy an excellent Active Noise Cancellation feature that helps reduce background noise. Few other mics, even USB mics, offer such background noise cancellation. Just why this headset makes it to this list of the best mics for Discord.
The design is like other Razer headsets, but this model features larger circular earcups which are supported by cooling gel and memory foam. The device has a well-balanced distribution which makes it perfect for long gaming and podcast sessions.
The Razer logo on each ear cup features RGB lighting, and the LED transitions can be programmed using the Razer Synapse software.
All device audio controls are located under the left earcup along with the microphone. The USB cable provided with the package is only 4 feet in length, however, the mic is retractable and features active noise cancellation.
Technical Specifications:
Model: Kraken | Weight: 380 grams | Frequency: 20 – 20,000 Hz | Audio Sensitivity: 120 dB | Size: 3.94 inches x 6.9 inches x 7.68 inches | Connection: USB | Microphone: Uni-directional
Pricing: Around $13
Verdict
This device is best suited for streaming gaming content and given the active noise cancellation feature, your key presses will be dialed down for your users.
3. Audio Technica ATR 2500x
Best USB Microphone for Beginners
Pros
- Compatible with Mac and Windows
- Zero-latency monitoring
- Clear voice recordings
Cons
- Recording limit of 48 kHz
- Lacks bass
Audio Technica 2500X is a true marvel in terms of user-friendliness and features. This is a USB-connected mic so there is no need for an audio interface or mixers to modify the audio output.
Besides the mic, you get a USB Type-C to Type-C to connect this mic with MacBook, along with a USB Type-A to Type-C for Windows PCs and laptops.
You get a sturdy and stable tripod stand to mount the mic. Once you have connected the mic with your PC, there is no need for further adjustments. It’s a simple plug-and-play unit.
After connecting, select audio input from Audio Technica from the settings tab. You can even plug in your headset or earphones to listen to the audio quality while speaking in the mic without facing latency issues. On top of these features, the ATR 2500X is capable of noise filtering, making it a perfect Discord mic.
That said, this is a highly capable mic, and it tends to capture unnecessary minute sounds that you will find hard to mute out. The headphone jack will pick up sounds from the connected PC and your desk as well.
Technical Specifications:
Model: ATR | Weight: 604 grams | Frequency: 30 Hz – 15,000 Hz | Audio Sensitivity: 30 dB | Size: 3 inches x 7 inches x 10 inches | Connection: Corded electric and USB | Microphone: Unidirectional
Pricing: Under $125
Verdict
A bundled-in tripod stand, audio quality, and USB compatibility make the ATR 2500X one of the best plug-and-play Discord mics you can get your hands on.
That said, this mic is meant only for gaming and not typically suited for podcasts or live streaming.
2. HyperX QuadCast – USB condenser
Best USB Discord Mic for Audio Quality
Pros
- Mute/Un-mute system
- Warm audio quality
- Built-in audio jack
- Complementary Shock mount and pop filter
Cons
- LED is fixed with red color (No RGB)
- Top surface gets easily smudged
HyperX QuadCast features a visibly dynamic red LED and offers 4 polar patterns, Cardioid, bi-directional, Omnidirectional, and Stereo for audio inputs.
QuadCast connects directly to your PC using USB and works perfectly with Mac, Windows, as well as on PS4 and PS5.
The device itself comes with an anti-shock mount, pop filter, and gain control. You can mute this microphone with just one tap on the touch-sensitive top surface. Other controls are located at the front and rear ends of the stand. We also got 3 condenser capsules bundled in.
The shock mount stand serves multiple purposes – it cancels out any micro-vibrations, e.g. – typing on the keyboard with the mic on the same table. It also allows you to adjust the angle of the QuadCast mic, which depends upon your distance from the mic. The adjustments are however limited to around thirty degrees.
The bottom part of the mic comes as a sleek audio dial, allowing you to change across 5 different notches of audio volume.
At the rear, you have a different dial to choose from among the 4 different audio pickup patterns. Below that, you have an audio jack to monitor the audio quality and USB port.
Technical Specifications:
Model: QuadCast | Weight: 725 grams | Frequency: 20 – 20,000 Hz | Audio Sensitivity: 90 dB | Size: 5 inches x 4 inches x 9.8 inches | Connection: Corded electric and USB | Microphone: Cardioid, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional, and Stereo.
Pricing: Around $140
Verdict
HyperX QuadCast microphone is outstanding, definitely is one of the best microphones for Discord offering excellent audio quality, simple setup, and easy usage.
However, just make sure to tweak the settings as this mic is a bit too good and may end up catching your graphics card fans whirring at full speed as well as your vocals!
1. PreSonus Revelator – USB C microphone
Best Overall Discord Mic
Pros
- High-quality audio recording
- Active noise filtration
- Free software package
- Preset audio modes
Cons
- Shorter USB cables
- Complex universal control application
We think the PreSonus Revelator is the best premium Discord mic currently available in the market, designed specifically for beginners and even just as suited for professionals. It features a simple to use, plug-and-play interface providing easy direct control to the user.
Coming to the design, the Revelator features a strong and sturdy stand with a pop filter right out of the box.
You get 3 primary controls on the front end of this mic including a Preset option, to choose from over 16 different audio modes. The PreSonus Revelator can capture audio in 3 distinct formats -Cardioid, Omnidirectional, and Figure 8.
Revelator is a bus-powered device, which means the USB C cable meant for establishing the connection will be powering the PC. There is no need for an external power source, which helps in maintaining a clean desk setup.
This mic comes with the Studio Live voice effects, which allows more flexibility in delivering podcasts. For a condenser mic, you get a higher output and clear audio.
Including built-in voice customizations, loop back mixer – this mic is built for live streaming, MMO gaming, and podcasts. For us, this is the best mic for Discord anyone can buy today with the perfect price tag as well!
Technical Specifications:
Weight: 730 grams | Frequency: 20 – 20,000 Hz | Audio Sensitivity: 110 dB | Size: 16.2 inches x 12.4 inches x 8.7 inches | Connection: Corded electric and USB | Microphone: Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure 8
Pricing: Around $140
Verdict
Revelator is the best microphone for Discord in its category and offers a lot of customization for professional users.
For $200, you get everything that a gaming and podcast mic should have, and it’s specifically tweaked to make sure it catches the audio that it needs to!
USB vs XLR mics: Things You Need to Know
Many users are not really on cue with the complexities of pre-amps and analog to digital convertors. These two often come in a combined package called the mixer. You might be wondering that you already have a mic, and it works directly with your PC without using these two. In that case, you are using the preamp and convertor of the sound card installed on your motherboard.
Chances are you don’t even have a sound card pre-installed on your PC, and even if you do, they cannot match the quality of a standalone mixer. This is a setup required for XLR microphones since they have a mic out signal. Such mics are used in a highly professional setup and premium audio quality.
On the contrary, we have USB mics, which do not require any other device and offer a digital output. It means all three of the devices, microphone, pre-amp, and analog-to-digital convertor are integrated with USB mics.
The purpose and strength of a USB mic are to be a simple plug-and-play all-in-one package. You just need to plug it into the USB port of your PC, adjust the volume and you are good to go without the need for software-aided adjustments. These are your go-to mics to quickly start your stream or podcast.
With XLR mics, you will need a preamp and an audio mixer other than phantom power as well! Despite the complexities, no other mic can compare with the audio quality on offer with XLRs.
That said, these mics are only for professionals who are into live streaming, podcasts, MMO gaming and have the necessary expertise at hand to purchase the necessary setup to use an XLR mic.
Also Read: Top 10 Best Microphone for Gaming In 2022
Final Words
Microphones are an essential component for users active on Discord and Twitch. While XLR mics are meant for professionals, no rule bars novice users from experiencing them.
But we recommend a USB microphone that can easily get the job done and within budget. These are the best mics for Discord you can buy today. Go ahead then!
FAQs
How to test your microphone audio quality on Discord?
– Connect the mic with your PC and open Discord
– Go to User Settings and click on Voice and Video.
– Let’s check under mic Test.