Microphones are essential for digital communication, and in this day and age where all of us have to work from home, the desire and the need to have a good microphone is crucial for your success. But when we think of microphones, we feel about hefty price tags and stop even before we start searching. But there are quite a few budget options out there that will provide quality without breaking the bank. If you are looking for the best budget options regarding microphones, look at our ‘Best Cheap Microphones.’ We assure you; you’ll find your desired microphone without any doubt.
Buying Guide
You need to look for a few features when picking a microphone, and as you are trying to get one on the cheaper side, you need to be 100% assured of what you’re getting for your money. Let’s take a look, shall we?
Type of Microphone
When you’re picking up a microphone, you must choose between two types:
- Condenser Microphones
- Dynamic Microphones
If you’re looking for a microphone that needs to pick up high-frequency sound waves, then a condenser is your way to go. For studio vocals or instrument recordings (piano or guitar), condenser microphones are the best options. But the downside is you need a power source or a soundcard to use condenser mics
On the other hand, dynamic microphones are better for using loud noises like drums and strong vocals. It also doesn’t need the power to work; you plugin, and it will start to work. So, for budget options going for dynamic microphones are better.
Sensitivity
When picking up a microphone, you need to look out for the mic’s sensitivity or the ability to pick up low-volume sounds. -65db to 5db is the perfect range for standard recording sessions,
Polar Pattern
The polar pattern decides in which direction the mic will receive the voice. Regarding your usage, you may select a polar pattern. ‘Cardioid’ is better for single vocal inputs while ‘Omnidirectional’ is best if you want to take in the surroundings’ sound.
Impedance
The amount of audio signal your mic receives is regarded as impedance, and the lower it is, the better for less noise. Low impedance means the mic has good qualities, while high means otherwise.
Filter
You must also look out for whether your mic has personal noise filters or provides noise cancelling. Although this matter can be solved with good sensitivity and impedance, the filter will give your voice a crisp and smooth feel.
Best Cheap Microphones
Now that you know what features to look for, please look at our top 5 budget microphones that offer the best of both worlds.
Product Name |
Features |
Price |
Buy Now |
| Audio-Technica AT2020 |
|
$$ | Click here |
| Blue Snowball ICE |
|
$$ | Click here |
| Shure SM57 |
|
$$ | Click here |
| MXL 990 |
|
$$ | Click here |
| AKG P120 |
|
$$ | Click here |
1. Audio-Technica AT2020
When it comes to Audio-Technica, you don’t need to know much about their incredible reputation among professionals and podcasters. And AT2020 doesn’t disappoint with their cardioid polar settings and versatile yet low mass diaphragm for sensitivity. This is one of the best budget choices for home studios out there.
Pros
- Condenser Microphone
- 20 dB noise level
- Cardioid Polar Pattern
- Low Mass Diaphragm
- Threaded Stand Mount for Versatility
Cons
- For some, the sound is too bright
- Price is a bit higher than others
2. Blue Snowball Ice
Blue Snowball Ice is one of the best bangs for budget options out there when you go for cheap mics. This condenser mic is easy to use and doesn’t need an external power source as it runs with a USB cable. So if you are on a real tight budget but want the best of the best, then snowball ice is the option for you!
Pros
- Condenser Microphone
- Cardioid Polar Pattern
- USB Powered Cable
Cons
- Durability Issues
3. Shure SM57
SM57 can be seen everywhere, from small clubs to professionals, and your performance is always perfect. If you want a device that will record steadily and smoothly, then SM57 is for you.
Pros
- Dynamic Microphone
- Polar Pattern Cardioid
- Has Frequency of 40Hz-15000Hz
Cons
- Can’t intake from more than one sound source
4. MXL 990
XML 990 is one of the best home studio official-grade microphones out there. With its built-in filter, it’s suitable for noise-canceling when recording.
Pros
- Condenser Microphone
- Noise Level 80dB
- Frequency Around 30hz-200khz
- 200 Ohm Impedance
Cons
- Bit harsh noise output
5. AKG P120
AKG P120 upholds its reputation of being one of the consistent microphones, and this product doesn’t disappoint and lives up to its predecessors. With crystal clear sound delivery, it is a good choice for budget users.
Pros
- Condenser Microphone
- Noise Level is 19dB
- Impedance around 200Ohm
- Cardioid Polar Pattern
Cons
- Noise Reduction Issue
It’s easy to get confused in the sea of microphones out there, and sometimes the price point may stop you from getting the right one. But if you know what you’re looking for, you can find the perfect microphone in your tight budget.
And if you’ve come up to this far of our ‘Best Cheap Microphone,’ then you already have the best option in your hand, then what’s stopping you from getting the microphone for your next project? Best of luck!
You can also read our guide for Best Condenser Mics for Vocals.
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