Here are the best microphones for YouTube if you're in a budget. We have compiled a list of the best microphones if you're on a budget and for every type of video - for streaming, music, vlogs, beauty, interviews...
You can skip straight to the microphone you want. Or read about each one. Most of these will work for a variety of video types.
Best Condenser Mic - for Streaming, Studio, Music, Podcasts
Price: $99.00
★★★★★
Features
Studio condenser technology.
Noise level is 20db SPL.
Cardioid polar pattern for sound source isolation.
Custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm.
Includes accessories - stand mount, threaded adapter, soft protective pouch.
XLR Connector Type.
Advantages
Studio quality for an affordable price.
Trustworthy: Highly rated online and with a lot of positive reviews.
Unidirectional microphone is good for removing background noise.
The custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm provides extended frequency response and superior transient response.
Great for capturing musical instruments or for gamers.
Disadvantages
Unidirectional polar condenser microphones may not work for all video types. Not be the best for multiple subjects or when moving around.
Will need adaptor if want to use with a computer. It is an XLR Connector Type and not USB
Does not come with an XLR cable.
Requires phantom power. Will have to be plugged in.
Does not come with any stands.
May need to buy pop filters. As plosives can be noticeable, e.g. if recording for radio or story narration.
Overall
The Audio Technica AT2020 is the best condenser microphone in the market for under $100. It provides great audio quality audio recording. It's great for beginners and intermediates recorders. Especially good for streaming, podcasts, studio set-ups, ASMR and music recording.
Best Versatile Microphone - for Streaming, Music, Podcasts, Interviews, Hosting, and Sit Down Videos
Price: $69.99
★★★★★
Features
Connect via USB, XLR, or Host OTG cables. Compatible with Android and iOS devices.
Cardioid polar pattern to pick up sound from the front and minimise background noise.
Unidirectional.
1.00 lbs (453g).
Advantages
It is compatible with USB, XLR. So it will connect to any Mac, PC or mixer system.
It comes with accessories: microphone clip, desktop tripod stand, XLR cable and USB cable.
It comes with a stereo headphone output so you can hear sound while recording.
High quality audio.
Trustworthy: Highly rated online and with a lot of positive reviews.
Unidirectional microphone is good for removing background noise.
Disadvantages
Limited control: The Samson Q2U has a fixed gain control. So you may not have as much control over the volume.
No built-in audio inputs or power. It will have to be plugged in to an external source for audio to be captured. Either a desktop or mixer system.
Best for capturing sound directly in front of the microphone. This is with any cardioid microphone.
Overall
The Samson Q2U is a great microphone for its price. It's a good generalist microphone for beginners and intermediates. It's great for those who want flexibility to use it with USB or XLR connectors. And the great thing is that it comes with both of those plugs and a table tripod stand, so it's ready to be used.
Compact microphone that works for both smartphones and DLSRs.
Length: 3" (80mm).
Weight: 1.5 ounce (42g).
Advantages
Compact size makes it easy to take on the go.
Reputable brand: Rode Microphones.
Can be used on both smartphones and DLSR cameras.
If looking just for the iPhone there is a cheaper alternative - The VideoMic.
No battery required - ready to be plugged in and used.
Includes a shock mount and deluxe furry windshield.
Offers directional pick-up pattern that focuses on the sound in front of the microphone and reduces background noise.
Disadvantages
May need an adapter depending on the phone. It is a 3.5mm Jack.
Limited control over the volume.
Needs to be plugged in to use.
May not work well if filming at great distances as needs to be connected to the device. However, it is possible to buy extensions and it can then be attached to a boom pole.
Overall
The Rode VideoMicro is a great entryway into Rode microphones. It's compact size makes it ideal for filming on the go. It's can grow with you as you transition from phone to camera footage. However, an adapter may be needed depending on the phone.
Best Budget Lap Mic - for Vlogging, Interviews, Tiktok and Instagram Videos
Price: $24.95
★★★★
Features
Clip-on omnidirectional microphone for smartphones, desktops and DSLR cameras.
Extra long cord: 19.6 feet (5.9m).
Has its own power pack for devices that require a powered microphone.
3.5mm connector.
Playback headphone monitoring is allowed.
Advantages
Compatible with iOS, Windows and Androids. Can also be used with desktops and DSLR cameras.
Affordable option.
Extra long cord is great for filming when standing away from the phone. Works well when filming vlogs, music, and/or interviews. Especially when capturing the view too!
Lightweight and easy to use, great for on the go filming.
Omnidirectional pickup means it will pick up sound from all directions. Useful for capturing audio in noisy environments.
Disadvantages
Limited control over the volume.
May need an adapter depending on the phone. It is a 3.5mm Jack.
Needs to be plugged in to use.
Omnidirectional microphone means it may not pick up sound as well from a specific direction as a directional microphone would.
Depending where it's clipped on there may be interference or rustling noises from movement - e.g. from clothing.
Overall
The BOYA by M-1 is a great compact budget microphone. The best feature is its extra long cord, for filming away from your phone. It works best when recording a single subject or subjects close together. Note that an adapter may be need depending on the phone.
Conclusion
All these microphones are great budget options. Which one will work for you will depend on what device you are using to film, where you are filming, and your budget. To get even better audio make sure you also use audio editing software! We have a tutorial on how to clean up audio using a free software - Audacity.
*Prices and links mentioned here are correct of the time this was published (30/12/2022).
