Audio quality is arguably more important than video quality for streaming. Viewers will tolerate a 720p stream, but bad audio makes them leave immediately. Here are the best microphones for streaming in 2026.
Quick Recommendations
| Budget | Microphone | Type | Price |
| Budget | Fifine K669 | USB | ~$30 |
| Mid-range | Audio-Technica AT2020 USB+ | USB | ~$100 |
| Best USB | Elgato Wave:3 | USB | ~$150 |
| Best XLR | Shure SM7B | XLR | ~$400 |
| Premium | Shure MV7+ | USB/XLR | ~$270 |
USB vs XLR Microphones
USB Microphones
- Plug and play — connect directly to your PC
- Built-in audio interface — no additional hardware needed
- Best for: Most streamers, beginners, simple setups
XLR Microphones
- Requires an audio interface ($50–$200 additional cost)
- Better audio quality — more control over gain, EQ, and processing
- More durable — professional build quality
- Best for: Serious streamers, podcasters, anyone who wants the best audio
Top Microphones Reviewed
Budget: Fifine K669 (~$30)
The best microphone under $50. Surprisingly good audio quality for the price. Cardioid pattern rejects background noise reasonably well.
Pros: Incredible value, metal build, plug and play Cons: No headphone monitoring, picks up keyboard noise at close rangeMid-Range: Audio-Technica AT2020 USB+ (~$100)
A studio-quality condenser microphone in USB form. Clear, detailed audio with a flat frequency response.
Pros: Excellent audio quality, built-in headphone jack, durable Cons: Sensitive to background noise (condenser), needs a boom armBest USB: Elgato Wave:3 (~$150)
Designed specifically for streamers. Integrates with Elgato Wave Link software for advanced audio routing.
Pros: Clipguard technology (prevents distortion), Wave Link software, great audio Cons: Proprietary software ecosystem, premium price for USBBest XLR: Shure SM7B (~$400)
The industry standard for streaming and podcasting. Used by nearly every major streamer and podcaster.
Pros: Legendary audio quality, excellent noise rejection, virtually indestructible Cons: Expensive, requires audio interface + CloudLifter/inline preamp (~$100–$200 extra)Best Hybrid: Shure MV7+ (~$270)
Both USB and XLR in one microphone. Great audio quality with the flexibility to start with USB and upgrade to XLR later.
Pros: USB + XLR, built-in DSP, touch panel controls Cons: Not quite SM7B quality on XLR, premium priceAudio Settings for Streaming
Regardless of your microphone, configure these in OBS:
- Sample Rate: 48 kHz
- Audio Bitrate: 128–160 Kbps (AAC)
- Noise Suppression: RNNoise (built into OBS) — excellent AI-based noise removal
- Noise Gate: Set threshold just above your room's ambient noise level
- Compressor: Ratio 3:1, threshold -18 dB — evens out volume spikes
Audio Bitrate Impact on File Size
Audio bitrate adds to your total stream bitrate. At 128 Kbps audio + 6,000 Kbps video, your total is 6,128 Kbps. Use our Bitrate Calculator to see exactly how audio bitrate affects your file size.
Accessories You Need
- Boom arm: Keeps the mic close to your mouth and off your desk (reduces vibration noise). Budget: Fifine (~$20), Premium: Elgato Wave Mic Arm (~$100)
- Pop filter: Reduces plosive sounds (P, B, T). Most boom arms include one.
- Shock mount: Absorbs desk vibrations. Essential for condenser mics.
Bottom Line
For most streamers, the Elgato Wave:3 ($150) or Shure MV7+ ($270) are the best choices. If you're on a tight budget, the Fifine K669 ($30) is unbeatable value. If you want the absolute best, the Shure SM7B ($400 + interface) is the gold standard.
Good audio makes a bigger difference than upgrading from 720p to 1080p. Invest in your microphone before upgrading your GPU.