8 Best PC Microphones
Choosing the best mic for your Windows PC can be tricky if you’re a first-time buyer. That’s because no two products offer the same features, functions, sound, or specs. This guide cuts to the chase so that the buying decision becomes much simpler. The aim of my short introduction is to help you choose the best PC microphone—for YOU—with confidence.
The 8 mini-reviews are also straightforward and easy to follow. First, let’s look at what mics are best for which applications and the reasons why.
Budget |
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iUKUS PC Desktop Mic |
4.7/5.0 |
Connection: 3.5mm Jack |
Type: Desktop |
Versatile uses, adjustable stand, 3.5mm audio jack + adapter. |
Check Amazon |
Best Value |
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MAONO PC Podcast Mic |
4.8/5.0 |
Connection: USB 2.0 |
Type: Studio |
Full accessory kit, clear audio, low noise, multi-system compatible. |
Check Amazon |
Top Pick |
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Blue Yeti USB PC Mic |
4.7/5.0 |
Connection: USB 2.0 |
Type: Desktop |
Made to last, heavy-duty stand, superb sound quality, useful on-body controls. |
Check Amazon |
What Do You Want a PC Mic For?
The simple answer for most folks is a microphone that sounds much better than the one inside the PC. Built-in mics are restrictive and usually sound tinny. But not all mics are suitable for all recording purposes. That’s why you need to know what you want the microphone for—specifically. Examples may be to record vocals, instruments, gaming, podcasts, or just a decent quality mic for online chat.
It’s much easier to choose a PC microphone once you know what you want, need, and expect. Also, read user reviews from those who have already bought and used the mics on your shortlist.
Analog Vs. USB Mics for PC
Analog mics for PC plug straight into the computer’s 3.5mm audio jack or via other hardware. That makes analog microphones quite flexible. Plugging the mic directly into the audio jack is more restrictive, though. That’s because the computer’s audio chipset controls all the mic functions. It can be hit-and-miss depending on the quality of the individual PC’s sound card.
USB mics for PC process their audio internally. Like analog mics, they also plug directly into your computer. Unlike analog types, a USB mic doesn’t rely on the PC soundcard for its audio processing. That means the computer identifies these microphones as independent audio devices. So, the quality of a USB mic is down to its processing hardware and its drivers.
The Importance of Specs
First-time buyers don’t need to know too much about the tech specs of a microphone. Those at the entry-level usually want an affordable product that sounds much better than the one inside the PC. There are plenty of choices in that category. Buyers concerned more about the sound quality and recording potential should know what the specs mean.
I won’t look at a mic’s workings here as this is a beginner’s guide. However, research the points on the list below if you want to learn more about the technical specifications.
- Condenser vs. Dynamic mics
- Diaphragm size
- Bit depth
- Latency
- Polar patterns
- Frequency response
- Signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio
- Sampling rate
- Sensitivity
I do include the main tech specs for each mic in the reviews for those who need them. You can also visit the product’s own pages for a more comprehensive breakdown of its tech specifications.
About My ‘Best PC Microphone’ Guide
There are 8 mini product reviews here for PC mics across all budgets. These are current favorites, determined by sales, positive user feedback, and expert opinions. The first three reviews are my personal picks for Best Budget PC mic, followed by Best Value and my choice for the Top Pick. The ones below those are by price order from lowest to high.
PC Microphones Comparison Table
Make and Model | Connection | Type | Price |
---|---|---|---|
iUKUS PC Condenser Mic w/ Desktop Stand | 3.5mm Jack | Desktop | Check Price |
MAONO PC Podcast Condenser Microphone | USB 2.0 | Studio | Check Price |
World’s #1 Blue Yeti USB PC Microphone | USB 2.0 | Desktop | Check Price |
CMTECK Multi-purpose PC USB Microphone | USB 2.0 | Desktop | Check Price |
Blue Snowball iCE PC Condenser Microphone | USB 2.0, 3.0 | Desktop | Check Price |
HyperX Cloud Flight Wireless PC Headset w/ Mic | Wireless | Headset | Check Price |
HyperX QuadCast USB Gaming Mic for PC | USB 3.0 | Desktop | Check Price |
Versatile Rode NT-USB PC Studio Microphone | USB 3.0 | Studio | Check Price |
1. iUKUS Affordable PC Mic W/ Stand | Best Budget
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
The affordable iUKUS PC microphone gets the Best Budget slot. It’s a good product for anyone who wants to escape the tinny mics built-in to their computer.
- Best feature 1: Excellent entry-level PC microphone
- Best feature 2: Multi-device compatible
- Plus points: Versatile uses, decent audio, adjustable stand, 3.5mm audio jack + adapter
- Minus points: Average everything
iUKUS PC Mic Feature Highlights
Friends and family are sure to notice the difference when you switch from the computer mic to the iUKUS. Desktop microphones don’t come much cheaper than this. Even so, this one punches well above its price tag and surprises most who buy it. It’s a step up from mics built into computers and other devices, and that’s the point. You can use the iUKUS for chat, recording, and gaming, etc.
You’re not restricted to PC usage either. The 3.5mm audio jack lets you plug it into most other modern devices. They include smartphones, tablets, laptops, and iPhones/iPads. The mic also comes with a handy headphone splitter adapter and a 180° adjustable mini tripod stand.
The Not So Good
The iUKUS PC mic is superior to most built-in microphones. Most new users are pleasantly surprised by its audio quality. But it’s still a cheap product, so nothing about it is going to blow you away. Therefore, it’s an excellent introduction for first-time users of external plug-n-play microphones.
Tech Specs |
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Brand: iUKUS |
Mic Type: PC condenser |
Connection: 3.5mm audio jack |
Power: Plug-in device |
Mic sensitivity: -55dB±2dB |
Impedance: ≤2.2K Ω |
Frequency Response: 50Hz to 16KHz |
Cord Length: 6.5ft (2 meters) |
Package Dimensions: 10.7 x 5.6 x 1” |
Product Weight: 6.4 oz. |
Warranty: 12 months |
The Pros |
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Excellent entry-level PC mic |
Multi-device compatible |
Versatile uses |
Decent audio quality for its class |
180-degree adjustable stand |
3.5mm audio jack |
Headphone splitter adapter |
The Cons |
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Average everything |
2. MAONO PC Podcast Condenser Mic | Best Value
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5
Maono makes the Best Value slot with its PC Podcast Microphone. There’s everything in the box for the home studio setup. The mic is plug-n-play, and so it’s ready to use right off the bat.
- Best feature 1: Excellent value PC microphone set
- Best feature 2: Plug-n-play simplicity
- Plus points: Full accessory kit, clear audio, low noise, multi-system compatible, multi-usage
- Minus points: Sensitive to ambient noise, no storage case
MAONO PC Mic Feature Highlights
MAONO’s A04 USB microphone is a stylish product that fits right in with a home studio setup. It’s multi-system compatible, which means it works with laptops, Widows PCs, and modern smartphones. Phone use needs an OTG adapter, though (not included). The set comes with a boom arm, shock mount, pop filter, and a foam windscreen. Use this mic for singing, gaming, voiceovers, and chat, etc.
The AO4 has a professional sound chipset and a cardioid pickup pattern. The audio quality gets a lot of positive feedback from users. MAONO’s A04 is as good as PC mic sets get within this price category.
The Not So Good
This mic does pick up some background noise included that of mechanical keyboards. That’s partly due to the default 100% volume setting. You don’t need it that loud. I found that around 50% volume or slightly less helps to reduce background interference. The other negative is that the kit doesn’t include a storage case to keep everything together when not in use.
Tech Specs |
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Brand: MAONO |
Color: Black/Grey |
Mic Type: PC Condenser |
Connection: USB 2.0 |
Polar Pattern: Cardioid pickup |
Power Supply: Plug-in device |
Frequency Response: 30 Hz to 16 kHz |
Sensitivity: -38dB+/ -3dB |
Package Dimensions: 17.2 x 8.1 x 3.5” |
Kit Weight: 49.6 oz. |
Warranty: 30-day money back |
The Pros |
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Excellent value PC mic |
Plug-n-play simplicity |
Clear audio |
Table clamp |
Scissor arm |
Metal shock mount |
Pop filter |
Foam, anti-wind cap |
The Cons |
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Some background noise |
No storage case |
3. World’s #1 Blue Yeti USB PC Microphone | Top Pick
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
The world-famous Blue Yeti USB PC Microphone makes the Top Pick. Anyone who’s owned or been researching PC mics would have come across this beauty. Let’s see why it’s such a favorite.
- Best feature 1: Seamless plug-n-play USB mic for PC & Mac computers
- Best feature 2: Multi-polar pattern selector switch
- Plus points: Made to last, heavy-duty stand, superb sound quality, useful on-body controls
- Minus points: Heft (also a pro), cheap Volume and Gain buttons
Blue Yeti PC Mic Feature Highlights
Blue’s Yeti is a highly popular, super-easy desktop microphone to use. It’s built like a brick outhouse, and that includes its heavy-duty stand. This mic doesn’t just look the part—it produces pro-level audio too. The suggested mic modes help users match the recording quality to the task in hand. And the 4-pickup patterns give even more user control and flexibility.
The on-body controls are nicely spaced out and easy to use. They include a Headphone Volume Dial, a Mic Mute Button, a Gain Knob, and a Pickup Selector Switch.
The Not So Good
The heft of the Blue Yeti is one of its strong points if you don’t have to move it. The size and weight of this thing are less appealing for those who need to travel with their mic. It’s a lot bigger than the ads portray, so interested buyers should check the dimensions before deciding. The on-body controls are welcome, though the Gain and Volume dials feel out of place due to cheap plastic and loose fitting.
Tech Specs |
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Brand: Blue |
Mic Type: PC condenser |
Connection: USB 2.0 |
Polar Pattern: Multi pickups |
Power Supply: Plug-in device |
Frequency Response: 20Hz–20kHz |
Max SPL: 120dB |
Bit Rate: 16 bit |
Max Sample Rate: 48kHz |
Package Dimensions: 4.9 x 4.7 x 11.6” |
Mic Weight (W/O Stand): 19.2 oz. |
Stand Weight: 35.2 oz. |
Warranty: 2 years |
The Pros |
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PC-ready, plug-n-play simplicity |
High-quality construction |
Heady-duty adjustable stand |
Multiple polar patterns |
Superb sound quality |
Headphone jack |
On-body controls |
Wide device compatibility |
Selection of recording modes |
Long USB cable |
The Cons |
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Heft, not travel-friendly |
Second-rate buttons |
4. CMTECK Multi-Purpose PC USB Microphone
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5
Shortlist the CMTECK G006 if you want a low-cost improvement over your PC’s built-in microphone. This desktop mic has a compact design and an adjustable gooseneck for flexible positioning.
- Best feature 1: Affordable, PC mic with built-in stand and LED indicators
- Best feature 2: Flexible gooseneck
- Plus points: Plug-n-play, Win/Mac compatible, multi-use, decent sound quality, mute button
- Minus points: No physical controls, awkward shaped base, need to get close
CMTECK G006 PC USB Mic Feature Highlights
This handy microphone comes with its own stand and a flexible 9.5” 360° gooseneck. It’s a plug-n-play USB mic for computers, so that means it’s ready to use right away. The G006 works with both Windows PCs and Mac computers and produces clear audio for a product in its’ class. Consider this mic if you’re experimenting with podcasts, vocals, and YouTube presentations at the entry-level.
CMTECK’s G006 even has a mute button, and that’s always a welcome feature with external mics. The base has attractive colorful LED indicators that look cool and let you know the working status.
The Not So Good
There are no physical on-body controls other than the mute button. That means users must make any adjustments via a computer. It’s a minor nitpick considering the mic’s affordable price tag, though. The shape of the base is something you like, or you don’t. Round or rectangular bases are easier to place when desktop space is limited. Lastly, you need to get quite close to the mic to be clearly heard.
Tech Specs |
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Brand: CMTECK |
Mic Type: PC condenser |
Connection: USB 2.0 |
Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional |
Power: Plug-in device |
Dimensions: 5.1 x 4.3 x 13.8” |
Product Weight: 7.4 oz. |
Warranty: 15 months |
The Pros |
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Affordable, PC tabletop mic |
Plug-n-play simplicity |
Built-in stand |
Flexible gooseneck |
LED status indicators |
Win PC and Mac compatible |
Multi-purpose uses |
Decent sound quality for its class |
Handy mute button |
The Cons |
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No physical controls |
Awkward shaped base |
Need to get close for best results |
5. Blue Snowball iCE PC Condenser Microphone
Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5
Blue’s Snowball iCE is an exceptional entry-level PC USB microphone. Add this puppy to your shortlist if you want to move away from the PC’s tinny built-in mic without breaking the bank.
- Best feature 1: Excellent entry-level PC microphone
- Best feature 2: Plug-n-play simplicity
- Plus points: Broad device compatibility, crystal-clear audio, versatile, lightweight and portable
- Minus points: Potential issues with Windows 10, overly bright LED power light
Blue Snowball iCE PC Mic Feature Highlights
The Blue Snowball iCE is a quality plug-n-play (PnP) mic for computer and mobile device users. It’s one of the best condenser microphones in its price category. This mic is ideal for people who are starting to get serious about the quality of their recordings. It works well for vocals, instruments, podcasts, and streaming. It’s also perfect for folks who only want a mic that delivers crystal-clear audio for talk.
This mic even has Skype Certification for producing ultimate clarity on Skype calls. That’s no small detail. Snowball iCe comes with an adjustable tripod stand for those who want it on the desktop. It also has a standard thread on the base should you wish to mount the mic on a traditional stand.
The Not So Good
There are some complaints that the Blue Snowball doesn’t work—or work well—with Windows 10. Other users have no problems. But some PCs don’t recognize it, though it’s not clear why that is. Check with the seller for the latest Win 10 compatibility update if you want the Snowball. A lesser gripe is the always on LED power light. It can become annoying, especially when working in low-light.
Tech Specs |
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Brand: Blue |
Mic Type: Desktop PC condenser |
Connection: USB 2.0 and 3.0 |
Polar Pattern: Cardioid |
Power Supply: Plug-in device |
Frequency Response: 40–18 kHz |
Sample/Word Rate: 44.1 kHz/16 bit |
Dimensions: 10.6 x 5.5 x 9.1” |
Weight: 16.2 oz. |
Warranty: 2 years |
The Pros |
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Excellent entry-level PC mic |
Bestselling product |
Plug-n-play simplicity |
Easy to use |
Crisp, clean audio |
Desktop tripod stand |
Standard mic thread on the base |
Versatile multi-application mic |
Light & portable |
Affordable |
The Cons |
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Potential Windows 10 issues |
Annoying LED power light |
6. HyperX Cloud Flight Wireless PC Headset w/ Mic
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5
HyperX is a well-known name in audio equipment and accessories. This product is its Cloud Flight PC Headset. It’s ideal for gamers who prefer a 100% wire-free setup and onboard controls.
- Best feature 1: Wireless PC headset w/ detachable mic
- Best feature 2: Exceptional immersive audio experience
- Plus points: Rotating ear cups, adjustable steel slider, onboard controls, long battery life
- Minus points: Average build quality, good—rather than exceptional—mic
HyperX Cloud Flight PC Mic/Headset Highlights
HyperX Cloud Flight gives users gaming-grade wireless connectivity. You can expect an incredible 30 hours battery life with optimal use, i.e., volume set at 50% and LEDs off. The headset has 90° rotating earcups and an adjustable steel slider for customized comfort. There’s a lot of positive feedback for audio quality and the immersive in-game experience with this product.
Another neat feature with the HyperX Cloud Flight is its intuitive onboard mic and audio controls. The microphone is detachable and takes a second to remove when you don’t need it.
The Not So Good
HyperX makes some decent audio equipment with impressive build quality. Unfortunately, its HyperX Cloud Flight headset falls short in that department. It’s quite an expensive product, so the finish and materials used should have been a lot better. The detachable mic does the job, but it’s good rather than exceptional. Thus, the product’s best feature is the impressive sound quality of its headset.
Tech Specs |
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Brand: HyperX |
Mic Type: Gaming headset |
Connection: Wireless |
Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional |
Power: Rechargeable battery |
Battery: Lithium Polymer |
Charging Time: 5 hours |
Mic Frequency Response: 100Hz-7KHz |
Mic Sensitivity: -45dBV ( |
Product Dimensions: 7.5 x 3.4 x 7.4” |
Product Weight: 11 oz. |
Warranty: 2 years |
The Pros |
---|
Wireless PC gaming headset |
Detachable microphone |
Exceptional immersive audio |
90° rotating ear cups |
Adjustable steel slider |
Onboard audio and mic controls |
LED lighting effects |
Long 30 hour battery life |
The Cons |
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Average build quality |
Mic OK, not exceptional |
7. HyperX QuadCast USB Gaming Mic for PC
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
The penultimate review goes to another HyperX PC mic. This one is the company’s popular HyperX QuadCast. It’s primarily a USB gaming microphone for PC, PS4, and Mac computers.
- Best feature 1: PC gaming and multi-application USB mic
- Best feature 2: Multi-pickup patterns
- Plus points: Beautiful design, well made, shock mount, built-in pop filter, onboard controls
- Minus points: Only available in red, cannot turn the LED off, no volume control
QuadCast PC Gaming Mic Feature Highlights
The HyperX QuadCast is aesthetically pleasing to the eye, but it’s more than a good-looking mic. It comes with four polar pickup patterns, selectable by via simple on-body switch. The options include Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Bidirectional, and Stereo. There’s also a Gain Control Knob at the base. Another unique feature is the onboard memory that lets users store up to 3 customizations.
The tap-to-mute sensor with an LED status indicator is invaluable for multiple applications. This USB mic comes with its own anti-vibration shock mount to protect it against movements and vibrations. It also has a built-in pop filter and a standard adapter should you want to mount it onto a boom arm. The built-in headphone jack is one more welcome aspect of this multi-purpose microphone.
There is a lot to explore with HyperX’s versatile, feature-packed QuadCast. Its multi-device, multi-use, and chat program compatibility makes it an excellent all-rounder. Some may find it a tad expensive, but it’s an excellent value microphone that’s built to last.
The Not So Good
Most agree that the HyperX QuadCast is a good-looking mic. The problem with the finish is that it’s only available in red, which is fine if that’s your preference. The bright LED is another cool feature, but it’d be even better if there were a way to turn it off on occasion. The mic is also missing a volume control. These are all minor gripes and unlikely to be deal-breakers for gamers and other users.
Tech Specs |
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Brand: HyperX |
Mic Type: PC condenser |
Connection: USB 3.0 |
Polar Pattern: Multi (4) pickups |
Power Supply: Plug-in device |
Mic Support: Multi-device compatible |
Frequency Response: 20Hz–20kHz |
Sensitivity: -36dB 1V/Pa @1kHz |
Package Dimensions: 5.05 x 4 x 9.8” |
Product Weight: 9 oz. |
Warranty: 2 years |
The Pros |
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Plug-n-play PC-ready mic |
Beautiful design, metal build |
Polar pattern selector |
Includes shock mount |
Gain control |
Headphone jack |
Tap-to-mute sensor |
Built-in pop-filter |
Broad compatibility |
The Cons |
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Only comes in red color |
Cannot control the LED |
No volume control |
8. Versatile Rode NT-USB PC Studio Microphone
Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5
Last of the current line-up of favorite PC microphones is the versatile Rode NT-USB. It’s an excellent choice for budding or professional vocalist who need their voice to shine.
- Best feature 1: Versatile PC USB microphone
- Best feature 2: Quality, all-metal construction
- Plus points: Plug-n-play, exceptional sound quality, onboard controls, headphone jack, extras
- Minus points: Desktop stand not fit for purpose, picks up some background noise
Rode NT-USB PC Studio Mic Feature Highlights
The Rode NT-USB is a side-address PC condenser microphone with a rugged all-metal construction. It works harmoniously with all the mainstream recording applications. Consider the Rode NT-USB if you want to take your vocal performance to the next level. The mic delivers ultra-clear natural-sounding audio that can bring out the best in any singing voice.
There are just the right amount of convenient on-body controls to keep it clean and uncluttered. The only thing missing is a gain knob, which would have been welcome. Extras include a metal pop shield, desktop tripod stand, a ring mount, and a 19.6ft USB cable.
The Not So Good
The microphone sits top-heavy on the included stand and is easy to knock over. Desktop users are sure to want a sturdier tripod to support the mic. The Rode NT-USB works best in a quiet environment as it tends to pick up a fair bit of background noise. Those who have a dedicated space should consider acoustic treatment to get the best results out of this quality product.
Tech Specs |
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Brand: Rode |
Mic Type: PC condenser |
Connection: USB 3.0 |
Polar Pattern: Cardioid |
Power Supply: Plug-in device |
Resolution: 16-bit |
Frequency Range: 20Hz to 20kHz |
Maximum SPL: 110 dB |
Package Dimensions: 7.2 x 2 x 2.4” |
Product Weight: 18.4 oz. |
Warranty: 1 year |
The Pros |
---|
Versatile USB PC microphone |
Plug-n-play simplicity |
Professional sound quality |
High-quality all-metal build |
Headphone jack |
Includes desktop tripod stand |
Metal pop filter |
Soft protective storage pouch |
Long USB cable |
The Cons |
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Tripod is too rickety for the mic |
Some background noise |
Contents
- What Do You Want a PC Mic For?
- Analog Vs. USB Mics for PC
- The Importance of Specs
- About My ‘Best PC Microphone’ Guide
- PC Microphones Comparison Table
- 1. iUKUS Affordable PC Mic W/ Stand | Best Budget
- iUKUS PC Mic Feature Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 2. MAONO PC Podcast Condenser Mic | Best Value
- MAONO PC Mic Feature Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 3. World’s #1 Blue Yeti USB PC Microphone | Top Pick
- Blue Yeti PC Mic Feature Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 4. CMTECK Multi-Purpose PC USB Microphone
- CMTECK G006 PC USB Mic Feature Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 5. Blue Snowball iCE PC Condenser Microphone
- Blue Snowball iCE PC Mic Feature Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 6. HyperX Cloud Flight Wireless PC Headset w/ Mic
- HyperX Cloud Flight PC Mic/Headset Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 7. HyperX QuadCast USB Gaming Mic for PC
- QuadCast PC Gaming Mic Feature Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 8. Versatile Rode NT-USB PC Studio Microphone
- Rode NT-USB PC Studio Mic Feature Highlights
- The Not So Good