September 2021
Microphones: Aggregated Ranking Report
This report contains an aggregate consensus of Microphone rankings posted by key online experts, as of September 2021.
At a glance - September 2021 Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Microphone |
Tom's Guide
|
PC Gamer
|
Music Radar
|
MusicTech
|
IGN
|
Pitchfork
|
Just Creative
|
CBR
|
Music Grotto
|
PianoDreamers
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
- | $100 |
Blue Yeti
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
11
|
4
|
11
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
2
|
- | $249 |
Shure MV7
|
-
|
1
|
5
|
4
|
11
|
-
|
15
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
3
|
- | $99 |
Shure SM58
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
2
|
3
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
|
4
|
- | $399 |
Shure SM7B
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
3
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
|
5
|
- | $379 |
Sennheiser MD 421 II
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
1
|
3
|
-
|
|
6
|
- | $125 |
Samson G-Track Pro
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
7
|
- | $95 |
Shure SM57
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
|
8
|
- | Check price |
Audio-Technica AT2035
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
|
9
|
- | $99 |
Rode PodMic
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
10
|
- | $80 |
Blue Yeti Nano
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
11
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
11
|
- | $130 |
Elgato Wave 3
|
10
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
12
|
- | $160 |
HyperX QuadCast S
|
11
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
13
|
- | $3200 |
Neumann U87 Ai
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
11
|
|
14
|
- | $227 |
Rode Procaster Dynamic
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
12
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
|
15
|
- | Check price |
Warm Audio WA-47
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
1
|
-
|
|
16
|
- | $59 |
JLab Talk
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
17
|
- | $269 |
Rode NT1
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
|
18
|
- | $149 |
Sontronics Podcast Pro
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
13
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
19
|
- | $70 |
Blue Snowball
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
20
|
- | $30 |
Fifine K669
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
16
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
|
21
|
- | $199 |
Epos B20
|
12
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
22
|
- | $277 |
Aston Origin
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
|
23
|
- | $525 |
AKG C636
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
|
24
|
- | $228 |
Rode NT1A
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
25
|
- | $449 |
Electro-Voice RE20
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
26
|
- | $49 |
Maono AU-A04
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
19
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
We ranked Blue Yeti #1 in September 2021 because:
- 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Blue Yeti as #1.
Tom's Guide
The best microphone overall
|
Pros
Versatile
Reasonably priced
Great sound quality
|
Cons
Not as precise as specialized mics
So-so mount
|
Just Creative
The best and easiest microphone for any user
|
Pros
Outstanding sound quality
Reasonable price
Has three condenser capsules ensuring crisp and clear sound quality
|
Cons
Could be lighter and more portable
|
We ranked Shure MV7 #2 in September 2021 because:
- 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Shure MV7 as #1.
PC Gamer
The best hybrid USB/XLR microphone
|
Pros
Excellent Vocals
USB/XLR combo
Versatile
Easy Use software
|
Cons
No mic stand
|
Music Radar
The best microphone for content creation
|
Pros
Dual output adds versatility
MOTIV app is genuinely useful
|
Cons
USB-C connection would have been preferable
|
Just Creative
The best USB microphone for podcasting
|
Pros
Good range and sound quality
Quite versatile
Comes with a direct to computer USB connection
|
Cons
Does not come with a mic stand included
|
Methodology: combine opinions of key experts
Identify Experts
We identify key publishers and experts that consistently review and recommend Microphones.
Capture Rankings
For each publisher we find a currently recommended "top 10" list of Microphones, it must be updated in the last 9 months.
Aggregate Rankings
We put all those lists together and aggregate them. The more frequently a product is recommended, the higher it is in our ranking
Experts chosen for September 2021 ranking
Tom's Guide
PC Gamer
Music Radar
MusicTech
IGN
Pitchfork
Just Creative
CBR
Music Grotto
PianoDreamers
We ranked Shure SM58 #3 in September 2021 because:
- 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
Tom's Guide
The best music microphone
|
Pros
Optimized for music
Not very expensive
Durable build
|
Cons
No easy USB connection
Not ideal for desktop setup
|
Just Creative
The best handheld microphone
|
Pros
Amazing sound quality
Durable build
Can pick up high volumes without distortion
Great at filtering background noise
|
Cons
Needs an audio interface to connect it to your PC
|
CBR
|
Pros
Proximity effect is reduced with brightened mid range and bass roll-off
Brilliant-quality sound with crystal clear vocals
Minimal plosives due to in-built wind and pop filter
Convenient stand adapter and zipper pouch
|
Cons
On/Off button does not exist
|
We ranked Shure SM7B #4 in September 2021 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
Just Creative
The best high-end microphone
|
Pros
Outstanding sound quality
Solid and rugged build
Easy to use
Great sound reproduction
|
Cons
Must be used along with a mixer
|
We ranked Sennheiser MD 421 II #5 in September 2021 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Sennheiser MD 421 II as #1.
CBR
Editors' Choice
|
Pros
Robust microphone for professional use
Dust and humidity resistant
Consistent signal at reasonable distances due to dynamic capsule
Minimal off-axis noise and ambiance
|
Cons
Costly
|
Music Grotto
|
Pros
Crisp recording with or without background instrumentals
Excellent for loud vocals
160 max SPL
Effective feedback rejection
|
Cons
May not work well for very subtle vocals
Mic clip is somewhat weak
Some high notes sound sharp
|
We ranked Samson G-Track Pro #6 in September 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Samson G-Track Pro as #1.
We ranked Shure SM57 #7 in September 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Shure SM57 as #1.
We ranked Audio-Technica AT2035 #8 in September 2021 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
Just Creative
The best high-quality microphone kit
|
Pros
Great value for money
High quality sound
Condenser reduces the background noise picked up
Comes with shock mount
|
Cons
Lacks carrying case
|
Music Grotto
|
Pros
Max SPL of 158 dB
Includes 10 dB pad
Custom shock mount for isolation
Clean recordings for home studio performances
|
Cons
Very sensitive to sound
Does not include a storage case or instructions
|
We ranked Rode PodMic #9 in September 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Rode PodMic as #1.
Tom's Guide
The best microphone for serious podcasting
|
Pros
Fantastic sound
High build quality
Low price
Internal pop filter
|
Cons
Not ideal for newcomers
Stand not included
|
We ranked Blue Yeti Nano #10 in September 2021 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
Tom's Guide
A great compact Blue Yeti microphone
|
Pros
Great sound
Study build
Cheaper than the Blue Yeti
|
Cons
No stereo mode
Basic controls
|
Just Creative
The best portable microphone
|
Pros
Affordable
Great audio quality
Easily portable
Great sound reproduction
|
Cons
Gain can only be adjusted through the Sherpa app
|
We ranked Elgato Wave 3 #11 in September 2021 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
Tom's Guide
The best microphone for streaming
|
Pros
Good for streaming
Intuitive setup
Simple design
|
Cons
No standout features
Can pick up background noise
|
PC Gamer
Best microphone for streaming and gaming
|
Pros
Clear audio
Digital mixer
Simple mounting
|
Cons
Single polar pattern
|
We ranked HyperX QuadCast S #12 in September 2021 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
Tom's Guide
A gaming microphone with customizable lighting
|
Pros
High sound quality
Customizable lighting
Built-in shock mount and pop filter
|
Cons
Standard QuadCast is cheaper
|
PC Gamer
The best microphone with RGB
|
Pros
Easy to set use
Touch-sensitive mute button
Built-in Shockmount
Cool RGB lighting
|
Cons
RGB is not for everyone...
and costly
|
We ranked Neumann U87 Ai #13 in September 2021 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
We ranked Rode Procaster Dynamic #14 in September 2021 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
Just Creative
The best microphone that’s built to work
|
Pros
Clear and focused audio
Solid build
Handles ambient noise extremely well
Comes with stand mount and a zip pouch
|
Cons
A bit pricey
|
We ranked Warm Audio WA-47 #15 in September 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Warm Audio WA-47 as #1.
CBR
Premium Pick
|
Pros
Specially crafted for vocals and instruments
Most coveted all vacuum tube large condenser microphone
7 pin cable modifies the sonics completely
Excellent reflection filter improves the quality of voice recordings
|
Cons
Holding it at 2 and 3 o’clock positions return noticeable proximity effect
|
Music Grotto
|
Pros
Studio-quality construction and design
140 dB max SPL
Low-noise tube for optimal smoothness
Almost mimics the classic ‘47
|
Cons
Could be pricey for a home recording mic
No hard case included for storage
|
We ranked JLab Talk #16 in September 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
Tom's Guide
The best microphone for $100 or less
|
Pros
Excellent value
High sound quality
Four directional patterns
Easy to set up and use
|
Cons
Can pick up background noise
Bidirectional mode can be ignored
|
We ranked Rode NT1 #17 in September 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
Music Radar
The best affordable condenser mic
|
Pros
Low noise
Sound quality
Integrated shock mount
|
Cons
Not a lot
|
CBR
|
Pros
Negligible low self noise of only 4.5 dB
Prevents all irritations for engaging and engrossing recording sessions
Body of 6061 aluminum and nickel plating prevents corrosion
Telescopic arm and pop shield with two axes of adjustment supports versatile applications
|
Cons
Need to soundproof your recording space
|
We ranked Sontronics Podcast Pro #18 in September 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
Just Creative
The best-looking podcast microphone
|
Pros
Good for recording speech and podcasts
Great unique design
Comes with an internal shock mount
Good price
|
Cons
Can have issues rejecting ambient noise when multiple sounds are being recorded
|
We ranked Blue Snowball #19 in September 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
Just Creative
The best small microphone for podcasters
|
Pros
Good price
High quality sound
Can plug and play
Convenient for computers and laptops
|
Cons
The angle of the mic could be improved upon
|
We ranked Fifine K669 #20 in September 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
Just Creative
The best budget-friendly USB microphone
|
Pros
Affordable price
Solid build
Good audio quality and versatile range
Compatible with both Windows and Mac OS
|
Cons
The cable could be better quality
|
CBR
Best value
|
Pros
Voice input is adjustable
Enhances and uplifts the sound quality of your audio projects
Comes with tripod desk stand for secure and easily portable tabletop use
Durable and rugged metallic body
|
Cons
The microphone stand is not completely stable
|
We ranked Epos B20 #21 in September 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
Tom's Guide
A good, higher-end streaming microphone
|
Pros
Good design and build quality
Lots of controls
Useful software
|
Cons
Expensive
No gain/volume indicators
|
PC Gamer
Best looking microphone for streaming
|
Pros
Built-in controls and sidetone
Excellent sound out of the box
Multiple pickup patterns
|
Cons
Slight background hiss
Stand transmits vibration noise
Pretty pricey
|
We ranked Aston Origin #22 in September 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
Music Radar
An excellent low-priced condenser mic
|
Pros
Fantastic price
Boutique appearance
|
Cons
Very few
|
Music Grotto
|
Pros
Versatile for most voices
127 dB max SPL
Custom, mountable end caps
Built-in shock isolation adds a layer of durability
|
Cons
No shock mount included
Low-cut filter doesn’t lend to dynamic vocals
|
We ranked AKG C636 #23 in September 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
Music Radar
A great handheld condenser and the best microphone for master reference
|
Pros
Clear, well balanced response
Superb feedback rejection
Excellent off-axis attenuation
|
Cons
You have to pay for quality
|
CBR
|
Pros
Prevents all common issues of a stage microphone
Extremely tough body made from zinc alloy and a spring steel grille
Unfiltered and refined studio fidelity sound
Custom tuned and capable of processing 150dB SPL
|
Cons
A bit expensive
|
We ranked Rode NT1A #24 in September 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
We ranked Electro-Voice RE20 #25 in September 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
We ranked Maono AU-A04 #26 in September 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
Just Creative
The best microphone kit for beginners
|
Pros
Good and clear audio quality
Comes with all the accessories a beginner would need
Solid build
Good design and price point
|
Cons
The shock mount is not very effective
|
CBR
|
Pros
Can be easily fixed on your collar or tie with a sturdy metal clip
Convenient to use with a mobile by plugging its thin pin into your mobile’s 3.5 mm headset jack
78-inch long cord for flexibility to record your podcast away from the sounds of the PC
Captures sound evenly from all around the microphone
|
Cons
Not very rugged
|