Best Condenser Microphones In 2022

As our Best Choice product, we’ve selected Audio-Technica’s entry-level condenser microphone, the AT2020. It’s designed to be a low-frills studio mic that can be afforded by most budding musicians. Unlike the more expensive condenser mics, it doesn’t have much in the way of features. For example, there’s no switch for pads or filters. But, don’t let that put you off, because this mics versatility and price point really sets it apart. It’s suitable for use as an instrument or vocal mic, especially if you’re close-miking. The only problem that people have with it is its noise level, but for the price, you really can’t complain. Be sure to check out our guide to the best camera microphones and pick your favorite.

The MXL Mics 770 is a microphone that we’d definitely recommend for beginners to use. If you’re a budding vocalist, recording artist, or even podcaster, this is one of the best budget options out there. It’s even more affordable than the first microphone we featured, but the audio quality isn’t quite the same level. However, it’s just as versatile. The cardioid polar pattern means that it’s just as good for recording group vocals as it is for solo vocals. Plus, it’s completely capable of recording instruments or as an ambient mic. The only major problem that we’ve found with it, is that it picks up a lot of background and wind noise. So, it’s definitely worth investing in a pop filter as well. You may also like some of the best MIDI keyboard controllers from our list, so take a moment to check them out.

Rode is one of the biggest names in condenser microphones. So, when they brought out a NT-USB USB microphone, we knew it would be worth taking a look at. USB microphones are pretty much the same as normal condenser microphones, except you don’t need an audio interface to use them. In fact, the computer recognizes the mic as a generic USB audio interface. That means, whilst this mic is still pretty expensive, it will still save you a lot of money. Like all Rode condenser mics, it’s amazing for recording both vocals and guitar, but it’s probably not capable of recording a kick drum. In truth, this mic is just as suitable gift for gamers and podcasters as it is for musicians.

The Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone is one of the most famous and well-respected condenser microphones in the business. The original SM7B was used to record parts of Michael Jackson’s Thriller and this version is used by countless big names as both a live and recording microphone. But, if you want to join this exclusive club, it’s going to cost you a sizeable chunk of money. Far from being the most expensive condenser microphone, we’d consider this to be a mid- to high-end microphone. It’s certainly studio quality and one of the best ways to get a studio-quality sound without forking out thousands. It can be used for almost anything, but it’s widely considered to be the best male vocal mic in the world. Our guide to the best earplugs for concerts features more useful products for musicians. 

Our second Audio-Technica mic is the mid-range AT2035 microphone. This vocal microphone has become hugely popular with singers thanks to its focus on the mid and high range frequencies. It’s not as capable as the more expensive Shure SM7B, but it actually performs really well compared to a lot of high-end microphones. We’d say, if you’re looking for a solid condenser microphone for recording vocals, this one has to be worth considering. Like all Audio-Technica mics, it’s pretty versatile, but there are better mics for instrument recording. A perfect gift for music lovers and musicians.

Generally, you get what you pay for with microphones. However, there are a few budget mics on the market that really do the job. The Marantz Professional MPM-1000 is definitely one of them. At less than $50 (at the time of writing), you can’t expect it to be the best in the business, but a lot of people are called this a budget-version of the Rode NT1. That means it’s a solid performer for recording both vocals and instruments but lacks the low-frequency response of a more expensive studio microphone. For more amazing products for musicians, check out our reviews of the best headphone amplifiers.

The AKG Pro Audio C214 Condenser Microphone is the only true competitor to the Shure SM7B in this list. It’s also pretty expensive, but still what audiophiles would call a mid-range condenser microphone. The main difference with this is that it’s designed to be an all-around studio microphone, not specific to vocals. It really excels when recording string instruments, but it’s also perfect for electronic drums and vocals. Plus, in our opinion, it’s one of the best-looking condenser microphones on this list, with a sleek matte blue finish. If you are also interested in playing keyboards, you will surely like some of the best keyboard stands from our list, so check them out.

Not everyone reading this list wants to be a recording artist. Gamers have become a large part of the condenser microphone market, which has led to companies like HyperX creating gaming-specific mics. The first indication that it’s for gamers is the red and black design that fits right in with gaming laptops or PCs and other equipment. But underneath that, HyperX QuadCast USB Condenser Gaming Microphone is a pretty standard mic. The most useful feature is the USB connection, meaning you can just plug it in and start berating other games when you no-scope them. For more useful devices like this, check out our guide to the best digital-to-analog converters.

AmazonBasics has been getting into just about every market you can think of, including condenser microphones. We were amazed when we came across this budget AmazonBasics USB microphone because it’s actually pretty good. Of course, it’s not really suitable for recording music or professional broadcasting, but it’s an affordable entry into the world of condenser mics. It’s especially useful if you want to boost your Skype, gaming, or podcasting experience, without spending hundreds. The main thing we don’t like about it is the shiny plastic body, which makes it seem much cheaper than it is. You may also like some of the best open back headphones from our list, so be sure to check them out.

The AKG Perception 170 Microphone stands out on this list because it’s a small diaphragm pencil-shaped mic. As you might have guessed from the shape of the mic, it’s really designed for direction, close-mic recording. It can be used for recording stringed instruments, but it performs best for percussion instruments and as a drum overhead. The other good thing is that they’re made to take a beating, which is especially important if you’re taking them on the road. For more excellent audio devices, check out our top picks of the best portable Bluetooth speakers.