Getting a good microphone is crucial for your performance, as it will determine how well your skills will be reflected through your performance. There are different types of microphones on the market, and not all of them will suit you. In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 best microphones under $100 in 2021.
You’ll find a versatile collection here and will be able to choose one from yourself irrespective of what your purpose is.
Buying Guide:
Choosing the best microphone under $100 will get easier if you take these factors into consideration:
Recording Quality of the Microphone:
There’s no point in getting a mic that doesn’t allow you to record in high quality. We highly recommend looking for a mic that offers a low impedance value and a wide frequency range.
How does the Microphone Connect:
You can get mics in two connectivity types, these are XLR and USB type. We recommend the USB type if you’re going to connect the mic directly to the computer, but XLR if you have a DAC or Amp.
Directional Pattern:
The directional pattern determines the input direction of the mic, and you can choose from Omni, Cardioid, stereo, etc.
Top 5 Best Microphone Under $100 in 2021:
| Product Name | Product Features | Price Range | Check Amazon Price |
| Rode NT |
|
$$ | Click Here |
| Audio-Technica AT2020 |
|
$$$ | Click Here |
| Shure PGA181 |
|
$$ | Click Here |
| MXL 770 |
|
$$ | Click Here |
| Blue Snowball |
|
$$ | Click Here |
1. Rode NT
The Rode NT is a compact USB mic that offers studio-quality right in your home. If you’re a person who’s looking for a top-notch studio mic at a decent price, then this is the right product for you. This mic is built especially for those who record using their computers, as the USB connection will prove to be much more suitable than XLR.
It also features zero-latency monitoring. If you use the headphone jack passthrough built into this headphone then you’ll be able to listen to what the mic is receiving.
Overall, it’s one of the best you can get out there, and it comes at a very decent price too. We highly recommend this one.
Pros:
- Studio-grade audio recording
- Detachable magnet base stand
- Zero-latency monitoring
- Affordable
Cons:
- Offers cardioid pattern only
- No onboard adjustment
2. Audio-Technica AT2020
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is a great mic, and this one comes from the giant that creates one of the best audio peripherals. This is a condenser microphone, and it offers studio-quality input. It’s custom-engineered with a diaphragm of extremely low mass, and with this, it can provide accurate sound reproduction.
Even though this is regarded as a home studio mic, it comes with an XLR connector. So, if you’re not using a DAC or AMP, this probably isn’t the best mic for you. It also offers a wide dynamic range which allows it to record sound more comprehensively.
Pros:
- Offers great performance for the price
- Cardioid polar pattern
- High SPL handling
- Accurate sound reproduction
Cons:
- Doesn’t provide cable
- The sound is too bright
3. Shure PGA181
If you’re looking for a unidirectional cardioid polar pattern mic, then you can give the Shure PGA181 a try. This microphone is tailored for professional usage, and you’ll be able to record studio-grade music with it.
The mic comes with an XLR connector, which might be a problem for some. If you’re not using a DAC or amp, then you will need to get a USB interface as this one won’t plug into your computer directly. However, if you already have a studio setup then you shouldn’t face any problem using it.
Another nice touch to this microphone is that it offers a zipper bag. Overall, this a decent choice, especially considering its price.
Pros:
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Unidirectional sound for noise isolation
- XLR connection
- Option to purchase with or without cables
Cons:
- Can’t capture audio properly from a distance
- Can’t record acoustic
4. MXL 770
If you’re looking for a robust mic that looks like a beast and is made to be extremely durable, then you can get the MXL 770. You’ll know how well it’s made as soon as you hold it in your hands because you’ll find that it weighs around 1 pound.
Sure, that takes away a bit of portability from it, but it surely speaks of the durability. What’s amazing is the sound tuning of this mic. It offers a good bass response along with a rich high that doesn’t sound too bright. This is probably one of the most well-tuned mics that you can find out there.
It also comes with a FET preamp. If you’re looking for a mic with a preamp built into it, then you should consider this one.
Pros:
- FET preamp
- Great build quality
- Well-tuned
- Can record acoustic instruments
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with a cable
- Too heavy
5. Blue Snowball
The Blue Snowball is perhaps one of the most popular mics out there. This multipattern mic comes with a USB connection, and it’s great for streaming as well as recording. Although it comes with a base, you can mount it on a boom arm for better flexibility.
The frequency range of this mic is 40Hz to 18kHz, which is sufficient for a great audio recording experience. It can be used as both omnidirectional and cardioid mic.
Pros:
- Multiple patterns
- USB connection
- Can be mounted on a boom arm
- Wide frequency range
Cons:
- Easy to scratch
- Doesn’t work well with tin whistles
Final Words:
These are the best microphone under $100 that you can get at this moment. We are certain of their quality and performance; thus, we highly recommend them to any who’s looking for the best microphone under $100
Also check out our guide on how to reduce white noise from your microphone: Link
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