May 2022
Microphones: Aggregated Ranking Report
This report contains an aggregate consensus of Microphone rankings posted by key online experts, as of May 2022.
At a glance - May 2022 Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Microphone |
PianoDreamers
|
PC Gamer
|
Just Creative
|
Tom's Guide
|
Music Grotto
|
Music Radar
|
MusicTech
|
CBR
|
IGN
|
Pitchfork
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
- | $249 |
Shure MV7
|
-
|
1
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
4
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
|
2
|
- | $100 |
Blue Yeti
|
-
|
-
|
19
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
11
|
-
|
-
|
11
|
|
3
|
- | $399 |
Shure SM7B
|
8
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
|
4
|
- | $92 |
Rode PodMic
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
|
5
|
- | $397 |
Sennheiser MD 421 II
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
4
|
|
6
|
- | $89 |
Shure SM57
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
|
7
|
- | $40 |
HyperX SoloCast
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
|
8
|
- | Check price |
Shure SM58
|
-
|
-
|
20
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
2
|
|
9
|
- | $3295 |
Neumann U87 Ai
|
11
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
13
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
|
10
|
- | $138 |
Blue Yeti X
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
|
11
|
- | $120 |
HyperX QuadCast S
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
|
12
|
- | $949 |
Warm Audio WA-47
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
|
13
|
- | $28 |
Fifine K669
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
|
14
|
- | $220 |
Sontronics Podcast Pro
|
-
|
-
|
16
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
15
|
+1 | $220 |
Rode NT1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
|
16
|
+1 | $179 |
Rode Procaster Dynamic
|
6
|
-
|
18
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
17
|
+1 | $99 |
Rode NT-USB-Mini
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
18
|
+1 | $140 |
Elgato Wave 3
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
|
19
|
+1 | $78 |
Blue Yeti Nano
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
20
|
+1 | $42 |
Maono AU-A04
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
|
21
|
+1 | Check price |
Aston Origin
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
22
|
+1 | $310 |
AKG C636
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
|
23
|
+1 | Check price |
Rode NT1A
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
|
24
|
+1 | $449 |
Electro-Voice RE20
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
We ranked Shure MV7 #1 in May 2022 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
Uses micro-USB
|
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
|
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
|
We ranked Blue Yeti #2 in May 2022 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Blue Yeti as #1.
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
|
Tom's Guide
The best microphone overall
|
Pros
Versatile
Reasonably priced
Great sound quality
|
Cons
Not as precise as specialized mics
So-so mount
|
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 May 2022 ranking
PianoDreamers
PC Gamer
Just Creative
Tom's Guide
Music Grotto
Music Radar
MusicTech
CBR
IGN
Pitchfork
We ranked Shure SM7B #3 in May 2022 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 Rode PodMic #4 in May 2022 because:
- 3 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 Sennheiser MD 421 II #5 in May 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Sennheiser MD 421 II as #1.
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
|
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
|
We ranked Shure SM57 #6 in May 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Shure SM57 as #1.
We ranked HyperX SoloCast #7 in May 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
PC Gamer
The best budget microphone
|
Pros
Sounds nearly identical to QuadCast Mic
Great price
Portable design
|
Cons
No gain control on mic, which makes this one fiddler than some for small tweaks
|
Tom's Guide
The best microphone on a budget
|
Pros
Very affordable
Good sound
Adjustable stand
Portable friendly
|
Cons
Limited controls
Cardioid pattern only
|
We ranked Shure SM58 #8 in May 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
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 Neumann U87 Ai #9 in May 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
We ranked Blue Yeti X #10 in May 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Blue Yeti X as #1.
PC Gamer
The best microphone for podcasting
|
Pros
Best sounding Blue microphone
LED front panel
Blue Vo!ce software offers great flexiblity
|
Cons
Low stand
Better with a mic arm
Delicate ports
|
We ranked HyperX QuadCast S #11 in May 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
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
|
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
|
We ranked Warm Audio WA-47 #12 in May 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Warm Audio WA-47 as #1.
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
|
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
|
We ranked Fifine K669 #13 in May 2022 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 Sontronics Podcast Pro #14 in May 2022 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 Rode NT1 #15 in May 2022 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 Rode Procaster Dynamic #16 in May 2022 because:
- 2 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 Rode NT-USB-Mini #17 in May 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
PC Gamer
The best microphone for entry-level content creators
|
Pros
Great Sound
Simple Compact Design
Decent Software
|
Cons
Software only works with NT Minis
Picks up background noise
|
Tom's Guide
A beginner’s mic with good sound quality
|
Pros
Easy to use
Adequate sound
Built-in headphone output
|
Cons
Gain-heavy audio
Stiff, non-adjustable stand
|
We ranked Elgato Wave 3 #18 in May 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
PC Gamer
Best microphone for streaming and gaming
|
Pros
Clear audio
Digital mixer
Simple mounting
|
Cons
Single polar pattern
|
We ranked Blue Yeti Nano #19 in May 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
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
|
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
|
We ranked Maono AU-A04 #20 in May 2022 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
|
We ranked Aston Origin #21 in May 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
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
|
Music Radar
An excellent low-priced condenser mic
|
Pros
Fantastic price
Boutique appearance
|
Cons
Very few
|
We ranked AKG C636 #22 in May 2022 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 #23 in May 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
We ranked Electro-Voice RE20 #24 in May 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Microphones” rankings.
