ReviewFinder Microphones

Blue Yeti

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22 Verified Hands-On Reviews

To combat fake reviews we only accept video reviews from verified channels. Each review must show the product and the face of the reviewer.

Expert reviews [22]

110
Total expert reviews: 22
  • with a score: 10
  • without a score: 12
Highest score by Music Radar
300
Average score based on 22 reviews
110
Lowest score by CNET
70

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20
ReviewFinder: authentic product reviews summarized by a powerful AI engine.

Expert consensus

The Blue Yeti microphone is a versatile and durable device with four directional patterns, a built-in headphone jack, and compatibility with a wide range of devices and software, making it a popular choice among content creators, podcasters, and gamers.

The Blue Yeti microphone is a versatile and durable device that is highly regarded for its sound quality. It offers four directional patterns, making it suitable for a variety of recording needs, from solo podcasts to group discussions and musical recordings.

Its built-in 3. 5mm headphone jack allows for real-time monitoring of recordings, and the mute button and volume controls make it user-friendly. The microphone is compatible with a wide range of devices and software, making it a popular choice among content creators, podcasters, and gamers.

While it may have some minor weaknesses, such as the flimsy plastic knobs, its overall construction and performance make it a reliable choice for anyone in need of a high-quality microphone.

Sound Quality

The Blue Yeti microphone is highly regarded for its sound quality, versatility, and solid build, making it a popular choice for recording vocals, interviews, solo podcasts, and group discussions.

The Blue Yeti microphone is highly regarded for its sound quality, producing clear, full-bodied, natural-sounding, and accurate audio recordings. It has a frequency response range of 20Hz to 20kHz, which covers the range of human hearing. The microphone's tri-capsule technology and multiple polar patterns allow it to capture depth and richness of sound, making it a popular choice for recording vocals, interviews, solo podcasts, and group discussions.

The cardioid polar pattern helps reduce background noise, but proper positioning and picking pattern are necessary to achieve good noise cancellation. Overall, the Blue Yeti is a versatile, solidly built mic that can be used for years and is known for its quality sound.

What is the frequency response range of the Blue Yeti?

The Blue Yeti has a frequency response range of 20Hz to 20kHz, which means it can pick up and reproduce sound frequencies within the range of human hearing. However, it's worth noting that the frequency response can depend on various factors such as the microphone's polar pattern, gain settings, and the environment in which it's used.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Blue Yeti produce clear and detailed sound?

According to several product reviews in ReviewFinder's database, the Blue Yeti microphone produces high-quality audio that is clear, full-bodied, natural-sounding, and accurate. The Yeti Blue records a clear, full-bodied, natural sounding audio signal, and the Blue Yeti X microphone features 24-bit/48kHz audio resolution, which means that it can capture high-quality audio with incredible clarity and accuracy. The microphone's four-capsule array and multiple polar patterns make it ideal for recording interviews, solo podcasts, and even group discussions, and its cardioid polar pattern ensures that it captures your voice clearly while reducing background noise.
Based on 11 quotes from 6 sources [show quotes and sources]

How good is the Blue Yeti microphone at recording vocals?

According to Wirecutter, experts on their test panels have consistently agreed that the Yeti records some of the best-sounding vocals, and it is a versatile, solidly built mic you can use for years. CNN Underscored also states that the Blue Yeti simply sounds great and consistently picks up the voice warmly and accurately, producing crisp recordings that are largely free of any fuzzy distortion. Overall, the Blue Yeti is a popular choice for recording vocals and is known for its quality sound.
Based on 17 quotes from 12 sources [show quotes and sources]

How does the Blue Yeti microphone capture depth and richness of sound?

The Blue Yeti microphone features a proprietary tri-capsule technology that captures sound with incredible clarity and detail. It uses a combination of three condenser capsules to capture sound from different directions, which allows it to record in multiple polar patterns, including cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional, and stereo. This technology helps the Blue Yeti capture depth and richness of sound by allowing it to pick up subtle nuances and details that other microphones might miss. Additionally, the Blue Yeti X microphone features 24-bit/48kHz audio resolution, which means that it can capture high-quality audio with incredible clarity and accuracy.
Based on 14 quotes from 8 sources [show quotes and sources]

How does the Blue Yeti perform in terms of noise cancellation and background noise reduction?

The Blue Yeti microphone is a sensitive mic that can pick up both wanted and unwanted sounds alike. However, a proper positioning along with the right picking pattern can help achieve a good level of noise cancellation. For instance, if the source of noise is behind the mic, you may use a cardioid pattern; if the noise is coming from sides, a bidirectional pattern will be handy. The cardioid polar pattern ensures that it captures your voice clearly while reducing background noise. According to thetechreviewer.com, the Cardioid setting keeps the voice crisp while canceling out most of the excess noise. However, as with all desktop mics, you can improve the quality of the audio recording by placing some acoustic treatment tiles around your home studio.
Based on 7 quotes from 6 sources [show quotes and sources]

Directionality

The Blue Yeti microphone offers four directional patterns and is versatile for a variety of recording needs, from solo podcasts to group discussions and musical recordings.

The Blue Yeti microphone is a versatile device that offers four directional patterns: stereo, cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional. The cardioid pattern is ideal for reducing background noise and room noise, making it perfect for solo podcasts and interviews.

The bidirectional pattern is useful for noise coming from the sides of the microphone, making it great for recording two-person interviews. The omnidirectional mode is perfect for group discussions or roundtable discussions, but it may require caution during recording due to its sensitivity to bumps and shocks.

The stereo pattern is great for musical recording and can separate multiple voices gathered around a table. The Blue Yeti microphone is sensitive and can pick up sound from different distances, making it ideal for recording acoustic instruments. However, it may not be the best choice for recording in a very noisy environment.

Overall, the Blue Yeti microphone is a versatile device that can be used for a variety of recording needs, from solo podcasts to group discussions and musical recordings.

What do experts say about the directional pattern of the Blue Yeti?

The Blue Yeti has four directional patterns: stereo, cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional. According to reviews on industryhackerz.com, TechRadar, cybercareers.blog, Digital Camera World, microphonegeeks.com, and Tom's Guide, the cardioid pattern is the most useful for reducing background noise and room noise, and it is pleasingly precise. The bidirectional pattern is handy for noise coming from the sides of the microphone, and the omnidirectional mode is great for group discussions or roundtable discussions. However, the omnidirectional mode picks up every bump and shock imaginable, so it may require some caution during recording. The stereo pattern is great for musical recording and can separate multiple voices gathered around a table.
Based on 12 quotes from 9 sources [show quotes and sources]

Is the Blue Yeti microphone good at picking up sound from different angles?

Yes, the Blue Yeti microphone is designed to capture sound from different angles. It has a unique tri-capsule array that allows you to switch between four different polar patterns: stereo, cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional. According to various product reviews, the microphone's multiple polar patterns make it ideal for recording interviews, solo podcasts, group discussions, or acoustic instruments. The cardioid polar pattern ensures that it captures your voice clearly while reducing background noise, while the omnidirectional mode picks up sounds from all around the microphone rather than just what’s in front of it.
Based on 11 quotes from 8 sources [show quotes and sources]

How does the Blue Yeti microphone perform in picking up sound from different distances?

The Blue Yeti microphone is known for its sensitivity in picking up sound, even from a distance. However, according to The Home Recordings review, if the microphone is placed too close to a keyboard, it can pick up a lot of noise. The microphone's sensitivity can be both an advantage and a disadvantage depending on the recording environment and the user's preferences. In general, proper positioning and choosing the right polar pattern (cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, or stereo) can help achieve a good level of noise cancellation and optimal sound recording.
Based on 7 quotes from 7 sources [show quotes and sources]

Is the Blue Yeti microphone well suited for recording in a noisy environment?

The Blue Yeti microphone has a sensitive condenser that can pick up both wanted and unwanted sounds, so it may not be the best choice for recording in a very noisy environment. However, according to a review on cybercareers.blog, the cardioid polar pattern of Blue Yeti X microphone ensures that it captures your voice clearly while reducing background noise. This means that your audience can hear you clearly, even if there is noise in your gaming environment. Proper positioning and selecting the right polar pattern can also help to achieve a good level of noise cancellation.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Connectivity

The Blue Yeti microphone has two connectivity options, USB and 3.5mm headphone jack, and is a versatile and easy-to-use option for podcasting, streaming, and recording vocals or instruments.

The Blue Yeti microphone has two connectivity options - USB and 3. 5mm headphone jack. The USB port powers the device and sends the digital signal to the computer, while the 3. 5mm headphone jack allows real-time monitoring of the audio. The standard version of the Yeti is USB-only, but there is a higher-end version, the Yeti Pro, that has an XLR connection point.

The audio transmission quality does not vary across different connectivity options on the Blue Yeti microphone. Overall, the Blue Yeti microphone is a versatile and easy-to-use option for podcasting, streaming, and recording vocals or instruments.

What are the available connectivity options for the Blue Yeti microphone?

The Blue Yeti microphone has two connectivity options - USB and 3.5mm headphone jack. The USB port powers the device and sends the digital signal to the computer, while the 3.5mm headphone jack allows you to hear exactly what's being captured. According to Music Radar, the standard version of the Yeti is USB-only.
Based on 5 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

How easy is it to switch between different connectivity options on the Blue Yeti microphone?

The Blue Yeti microphone is a USB microphone, so it only has one connectivity option. However, it does have a 3.5mm headphone jack for real-time monitoring of the audio. It's super easy to switch between different recording patterns - there is a dial on the front (or back, depending on the person) of the microphone that allows you to select each one.
Based on 8 quotes from 6 sources [show quotes and sources]

How does the quality of audio transmission vary across different connectivity options on the Blue Yeti microphone?

The Blue Yeti microphone has only one connectivity option, which is USB. According to a review on Music Radar, there is a variant higher up the range, called the Blue Microphones Yeti Pro, that has an XLR connection point. However, the standard version of the Blue Yeti microphone is USB only. Therefore, the audio transmission quality does not vary across different connectivity options on the Blue Yeti microphone.
Based on 12 quotes from 10 sources [show quotes and sources]

Features

The Blue Yeti microphone is a reliable and user-friendly option for podcasters, streamers, and content creators with a built-in headphone jack, mute button, and easy-to-use volume controls.

The Blue Yeti microphone has a built-in 3. 5mm headphone jack for real-time monitoring, a convenient mute button, and easy-to-use volume controls. These features make it an ideal choice for podcasters, streamers, and content creators who need to monitor their recordings and quickly mute their microphone when necessary.

The front-facing volume knob and back gain knob allow for easy adjustments to headphone output level and microphone sensitivity. While earlier models had a stiff Pattern switch, the overall consensus among expert reviews is that the Blue Yeti is a reliable and user-friendly microphone for a variety of recording needs.

Does the Blue Yeti have a built-in headphone jack?

Yes, the Blue Yeti has a built-in 3.5mm headphone jack that allows you to monitor your recordings in real-time. You can hear exactly what's being captured by the microphone without latency.
Based on 7 quotes from 6 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Blue Yeti have a mute button, and if so, is it easy to use?

Yes, the Blue Yeti does have a mute button located on the front of the microphone. According to multiple product reviews, including those on industryhackerz.com, Tom's Guide, edtechmagazine.com, CNET, CNN Underscored, microphonegeeks.com, and The Home Recordings, the mute button is easy to use and conveniently positioned for quick access. It allows you to instantly mute your microphone during recording or streaming, which can be especially useful if you need to cough, sneeze, or take a drink of water.
Based on 8 quotes from 8 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Blue Yeti have volume controls, and if so, are they easy to use?

Yes, the Blue Yeti has volume controls. According to reviews from Popular Science, Tom's Guide, edtechmagazine.com, CNN Underscored, CNET, Podcast Insights, industryhackerz.com, and Music Radar, the microphone has a front-facing volume knob for headphone output level, and a gain knob on the back for microphone sensitivity. The headphone volume dial is positioned below the mute button, and is easy to adjust. Reviewers generally find the controls to be easy to use, with the exception of the Pattern switch on earlier models, which was reportedly a bit stiff to switch.
Based on 11 quotes from 10 sources [show quotes and sources]

Compatibility

The Blue Yeti microphone is a versatile and reliable device that is compatible with a wide range of devices and software, but some technical compatibility issues have been reported with the Blue Yeti X by Apple MacBook Pro owners with the M1 processor.

The Blue Yeti microphone is a versatile device that is compatible with a wide range of devices and software. It can be used with both PC and Mac computers, as well as with most recording software and online communication platforms such as Skype, Discord, and Zoom. The microphone can also be used with iOS devices with an Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter or an OTG cable for Android devices.

However, some technical compatibility issues have been reported with the Blue Yeti X by Apple MacBook Pro owners with the M1 processor, who have struggled to maintain detection of the microphone. Overall, the Blue Yeti microphone is a reliable and versatile option for those looking for a high-quality microphone for their recording or communication needs.

Which devices are compatible with the Blue Yeti microphone?

The Blue Yeti microphone is compatible with both PC and Mac computers. It is also compatible with most recording software and online communication platforms, including Skype, Discord, and Zoom. Additionally, it can be used with iOS devices with an Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter or an OTG cable for Android devices.
Based on 13 quotes from 8 sources [show quotes and sources]

Is there any operating system or software that the Blue Yeti microphone is not compatible with?

According to a product review on Popular Science, the Blue Yeti microphone is plug-and-play compatible with Windows 10 or higher and MacOS 10.13 or higher, and no drivers are needed. However, according to a product review on cybercareers.blog, some technical compatibility issues have been experienced with the Blue Yeti X by Apple MacBook Pro owners with the M1 processor, who have struggled frequently to have their MacBook maintain detection of the microphone.
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Durability

The Blue Yeti microphone is a durable and reliable device with an all-metal construction, but caution should be taken with the plastic knobs for volume and gain control.

The Blue Yeti microphone is a durable and sturdy device that can withstand a few bumps and drops. It features an all-metal construction with a metal mesh grille that has no give to it whatsoever. The base is also durable and can be removed for mounting directly on a mic stand. However, some reviewers have noted that the plastic knobs used for volume and gain control are flimsy and should be used with caution.

Overall, the Blue Yeti is a reliable and durable microphone that is suitable for use in various settings, including home recording studios, podcasting, and live streaming. It is not waterproof and should be kept away from water to prevent any damage or malfunction.

What materials are used in the construction of the Blue Yeti microphone?

The Blue Yeti microphone features an all-metal construction that includes a metal mesh grille. According to a product review on The Home Recordings, the metal mesh grille has no give to it whatsoever, even when pressing extremely hard on it.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

How resistant is the Blue Yeti microphone to physical damage such as drops or impacts?

According to product reviews on Wirecutter, Tom's Guide, edtechmagazine.com, The Home Recordings, thetechreviewer.com, industryhackerz.com, and microphonegeeks.com, the Blue Yeti is a sturdy and durable microphone that can withstand a few bumps and drops. The microphone features an all-metal body with a metal mesh grille that has no give to it whatsoever, and it weighs approximately 3.5 pounds. The base can take a beating, and it can be removed completely from its base for mounting directly on a mic stand. However, there are some reports of flimsy plastic knobs used for volume and gain control, which should be used with caution according to CNET and microphonegeeks.com.
Based on 10 quotes from 8 sources [show quotes and sources]

Is the Blue Yeti waterproof?

No, the Blue Yeti is not waterproof. It is an electronic device and should be kept away from water to prevent any damage or malfunction.

Best Alternatives

3 best microphones in the same price range as Blue Yeti

Scroll to see all options. Click on the microphone for more details.
Shure SM57 Rode PodMic Maono PM422
Reviews
In comparison:
Shure SM57 rank #3 out of 141. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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10.0
Amazing
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In comparison:
Rode PodMic rank #7 out of 141. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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10.0
Amazing
Reviews
In comparison:
Maono PM422 rank #31 out of 141. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
9.1
Great
Price
Price
The Shure SM57 microphone is highly regarded for its exceptional sound quality, durability, versatility, and compatibility, making it a popular choice among musicians, producers, and recording engineers for capturing instruments and vocals in various live and studio settings. The Rode PodMic is a dynamic microphone with a well-balanced frequency response range, internal pop filter and damping features, cardioid polar pattern, XLR connectivity, and solid metal construction, making it a reliable and versatile choice for podcasters and content creators. The Maono PM422 microphone is a versatile and user-friendly device that delivers clear and detailed sound with its professional sound chipset and 16mm electret condenser transducer, making it ideal for podcasts, streams, and meetings.
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Microphones above are offered because they are in the same price range as Blue Yeti. To browse more budget and premium microphones go to our microphone ranking .

Position in ranking

We maintain a monthly ranking that sums up expert recommendations for all microphones.

Rank Change Price Microphone
CNN Underscored
SoundGuys
PC Gamer
PCMag
PianoDreamers
Music Radar
MusicTech
IGN
Tom's Guide
Just Creative
1
- $249
Shure MV7
-
-
1
8
-
7
4
5
-
8
2
- $87
Blue Yeti
1
-
-
-
-
-
11
-
1
5
3
- $99
Shure SM57
-
-
-
-
1
1
-
-
-
-
4
- $150
Elgato Wave 3
3
1
-
-
-
-
-
8
-
-
Show all rows
Best overall microphone
9 Jan 2024 (3 months ago)
Read article
Editor's Choice / The best microphone overall
1 Nov 2023 (5 months ago)
Read article
The best portable microphone
14 Feb 2023 (1 year ago)
Read article

Highest recommended microphones this month

ReviewFinder ranks based on a combination of customer reviews, expert reviews / mentions and popularity. Expert recommendations carry the highest weight in the ranking. We do not rank based on price, our commission or brand. microphones below are at the top of our ranking this April.

Scroll to see all options. Click on the microphone for more details.
Shure MV7 Blue Yeti (this item) Shure SM57 Elgato Wave 3
Reviews
In comparison:
Shure MV7 rank #1 out of 141. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
9.8
Amazing
Reviews
In comparison:
Blue Yeti rank #2 out of 141. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
9.6
Amazing
Reviews
In comparison:
Shure SM57 rank #3 out of 141. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
10.0
Amazing
Reviews
In comparison:
Elgato Wave 3 rank #4 out of 141. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
9.7
Amazing
Price
Price
The Shure MV7 microphone is a versatile and adaptable option for podcasters, streamers, and content creators, offering excellent sound quality, noise-cancelling capabilities, and connectivity options. The Blue Yeti microphone is a versatile and durable device with four directional patterns, a built-in headphone jack, and compatibility with a wide range of devices and software, making it a popular choice among content creators, podcasters, and gamers. The Shure SM57 microphone is highly regarded for its exceptional sound quality, durability, versatility, and compatibility, making it a popular choice among musicians, producers, and recording engineers for capturing instruments and vocals in various live and studio settings. The Elgato Wave 3 is a versatile and reliable USB microphone designed for content creators, podcasters, and live streamers, featuring a cardioid polar pattern, two connectivity options, advanced features, and compatibility with both PC and Mac.
More product details More product details More product details More product details