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How to Choose the Best Microphone for Gaming

By / Tech / May 16, 2025

This article covers the critical details you should consider when purchasing a microphone for gaming.

How to Choose the Best Microphone for Gaming
Image showing USB and XLR mic (Image via Amazon)

A good-quality microphone can significantly impact your gaming/streaming experience. Clear communication with teammates or your audience is crucial—poor audio can easily ruin the experience. But there are countless microphones out there across multiple budget options. So, which one is the correct one for you? Find out below as this article breaks down everything you need to know when choosing the perfect mic for your needs.

USB vs. XLR Microphones: Understanding the Basics for Gaming

Image showing the Blue Yeti USB microphone (Image via Amazon)

Before diving into specific features, it’s essential to understand the two main types of gaming microphones available on the market.

USB Microphones

USB microphones are the most popular choice for gamers due to their convenience and ease of use.

Advantages:

  • Plug-and-play functionality with no additional equipment needed; the onboard AD/DA chip takes care of the audio conversion.
  • Widely available in both affordable and expensive iterations.
  • Carry it anywhere with you.
  • Simple setup process, ideal for beginners.

Disadvantages:

  • Fewer options compared to XLR microphones
  • There is limited upgrade potential for your audio setup. Even if the microphone is expensive and has a really capable capsule, it’s limited by the AD/DA converters.

XLR Microphones

Image showing the legendary Shure SM7B dynamic XLR microphone (Image via Amazon)
Image showing the legendary Shure SM7B dynamic XLR microphone (Image via Amazon)

The gold standard in the audio industry, and are widely favored for professional usage.

Advantages:

  • Incredible sound quality when compared to USB devices
  • Also available in budget and expensive iterations
  • Few iterations of these mics are portable, but not all are.
  • Quality can be increased with external preamps/compressors, etc.

Disadvantages:

  • Requires an audio interface or a live USB mixer to connect to your computer
  • Upfront costs can be pretty high, for mics such as the SM7 B from Shure. 
  • Complex setup process, requires matrix routing when considering pre-fade effects.
  • The wide variety of capsule types and sizes affects portability.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Gaming Microphone

Image showing Shure SM4 studio microphone (Image via Amazon)
Image showing Shure SM4 studio microphone (Image via Amazon)

Polar patterns determine how your microphone picks up sound based on the source’s direction. This is one of the most critical points to consider based on your needs.

Below are the polar patterns discussed, but your choice may vary depending on your use case. 

Cardioid: This polar pattern in the capsule helps pick up sound primarily from the front, almost minimizing background noise. It’s ideal for solo streaming or gaming, where you only need to capture your voice. 

Omnidirectional: Captures sound equally from all directions. It works well for recording purposes, such as Sitar duets, guitar duets, or even capturing ambient room sounds. 

Bidirectional: This polar pattern records sound from both the front and back, rejecting sound from the sides. It’s great for podcast-style setups or in-person interviews where two people sit across from each other.

Supercardioid and Hypercardioid: This type of polar pattern is a more condensed iteration of the cardioid pattern, offering even greater rejection of off-axis sound. However, it requires a high-precision position to be utilized correctly.

Sound Quality Specifications

There can be a lot of audio engineering terms that will throw you off your chair, but fear not. Below are the core ones explained in layman’s terms and the ones you should care about when choosing an option. 

Sample Rate and Bit Depth: Pay close attention to this terminology; it defines your audio quality and the fidelity it carries. Look for at least 44.1 KHz/16-bit for just gaming. For streaming, consider 48 KHz/24-bit or higher.

Frequency Response: This doesn’t factor in gaming or streaming; ensure the frequency response covers the full range of human hearing: 20 Hz to 20 kHz. 

Build Quality and Design

Pay close attention to this aspect. Look for a solid construction body that can at least withstand occasional drops. Consider mics that offer a monitoring jack, gain control knob, etc. Also, consider bundles that come with a shock mount and a pop guard.

Setting Up Your Gaming Microphone for Best Results

Positioning is vital as it can help you get the most or least out of your microphone. Look at the spec sheet or markers within your microphone and position the mic following the polar pattern. Here are a few suggestions for placement.

  • Position your mic 6-12 inches from your mouth for the best audio quality. If needed, use a boom arm to keep the microphone away from your desk and keyboard.
  • Room acoustics can be treated with sound pads and bass traps. More on that in a separate article, coming soon. 
  • Software options such as HyperX NGENUITY and Rode Connect help you apply pre-fade filters and change the flavor of your sound on the fly.

Conclusion

Picking the right microphone doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by determining your budget and deciding whether you prefer the simplicity offered by USB or are ready to take on the XLR hassle and enjoy the benefits that come with it. Just make sure that you pay attention to the polar patterns and build quality, as those are extremely important in deciding on a good microphone.

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