Collection: USB Microphones 33 33 products

How a USB microphone works

Inside a USB microphone is everything an audio interface would normally provide: a capsule, a preamp, an analogue-to-digital converter and usually a headphone output. Your computer sees it as an audio device. That makes it the simplest way to record a voice for podcasts, streaming, online meetings and voice-over.

Where they fit, and where they do not

USB microphones are ideal for one person recording one source. Recording two people usually means two microphones on one computer, which many operating systems and programs handle poorly. If you expect to grow into multiple microphones, instruments or outboard gear, an XLR microphone with an audio interface is more flexible. Hybrid models with both USB and XLR outputs bridge the gap.

Capsule and pattern

USB microphones use either condenser or dynamic capsules. Condensers sound detailed but pick up more of the room; dynamics reject more background noise, which helps with keyboard clicks and household sounds. Some models offer several polar patterns for interviews or group recordings.

What to compare

• Capsule type and polar pattern
• Headphone output with zero-latency monitoring and a mix control
• Gain control and mute button on the microphone itself
• Sample rate and bit depth, for example 48 kHz and 24-bit
• Built-in processing such as limiting or noise reduction
• Mount, desk stand or boom arm compatibility

Place it close and slightly off-axis to your mouth for a full sound with fewer plosives.