Best Microphone under 100 Dollars : A Buying Guide (2021)

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Best Microphone under 100 Dollars

Hey folks! What brings you here? Searching for a microphone in your budget! We will make your task easier. We have complied list of best microphone under 100. Just read the article.

Condenser microphones are most popular and recommended for recording vocals and other high frequencies sound. They are preferred for this because they can reduce background voice much better than dynamic microphones.

We will focus on the large diaphragm condenser microphones under 100 dollars commonly used in home studios for recording vocals, podcasting, guitar etc.

List of the best Condenser microphone under 100 Dollars (XLR connectivity)

Worker Bee: NEAT microphone

Check latest price of NEAT Worker Bee Microphone

The NEAT worker bee is a cardioid solid-state condenser microphone with a shock mount and a pop filter. Its splendid combination of customizable Class A discrete electronics and shock-mounted 25 mm medium diaphragm capsule helps it have a broad, dynamic, and frequency range. It is the best condenser microphone for under $100 to record big sounds like drums, bass, guitar, live recordings, etc.

Features of NEAT Microphones Worker Bee

• Perfect for recording big sounds like drum, brass, live recordings, guitar, etc.
• Wide frequency and dynamic range with an excellent sound calibre.
• Customizable Class-A discrete electronics.
• Internal 25mm shock-mounted medium diaphragm capsule.
• Pop filter with a superior XLR output.

Pros

• Neat Microphones Worker Bee comes with a pop-up filter.
• Solid build gives a detailed response of vocals and other significant sounds.
• Shock-mounted medium diphagram capsule.

Cons

• Customers had complained that it catches radio frequencies while recording. 
• Cable not included. 

Shure SM58

Check latest price of Shure SM58 Microphone

Shure professes that SM58 is the most popular condenser microphone globally, which is perfect for recording vocals. The built-in pop filter helps to lower the breath plosives. SM58 is the best condenser microphone under $100, which gives excellent results while performing live onstage.

Features of Shure SM58

• Shure SM58 comes with a bass roll-off which helps to control the proximity effect in the microphone. 
• Built-in pop filter.
• Shure SM58 has a spherical wind filter to reduce breath plosives.
• Cardioid pickup pattern to prevent background noise.

Pros

• Perfect for recording vocals.
• Cardioid pickup pattern.
• Durable and superior build quality.

Cons

• Not much compatible with bass drums. 
• XLR cable not included. 

MXL 770

Check latest price of MXL Mics 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

Loved by most singers, especially rappers, MXL 770 surprises the users with its solid bass and wide dynamic range. MXL 770, a product of MXL Microphones, has a superior FET preamp with a balanced output system which helps to maintain its incredible price/performance ratio. For new musicians, MXL 770 is perfect, which will not disappoint them. 

Features of MXL 770

• It is a multipurpose condenser mic with a cardioid pickup pattern that perfectly records vocals, piano, guitar, and much more.
• MXL 770 comes with a built-in 10db attenuation switch that can handle all types of sound sources. 
• FET preamp for a wide dynamic range.
• Hing ends clarity with solid bass response.

Pros

• Multipurpose condenser microphone. 
• High-quality pass filter.
• Wide dynamic range.

Cons

• It accommodates with high-end frequencies more.
• MXL 770 is quite sensitive as it Ts and Ps more while recording. 

Audio-Technica AT2020

Check latest price of Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone

Audio-Technica AT2020 offers a superior transient and extended frequency response to their customers. The cardioid polar pattern of this best microphone under $100 prevents unwanted noise and efficiently handles high SPLs. We are pretty sure that at this price, Audio-Technica AT2020 will fit in your studio perfectly. 

Features of Audio-Technica AT2020

• Custom engineered low mass diphagram. 
• Superior transient response and extended frequency response. 
• Cardioid polar pattern prevents unwanted noise from sides and background. 

Pros

• Stringent build quality. 
• The high sound pressure level of about 144 dB.
• Cardioid polar pattern to prevent unwanted noise.

Cons

• The attenuation pad is not available with Audio-Technica AT2020.
• Primarily suitable for soft sounds only.

MXL V67G

Check latest price of MXL V67G Large Capsule Condenser Microphone

MXL V67G is a large diagram condenser microphone that amazes its customers with an incredible price/performance ratio. Also, it is the cheapest model of MXL is the microphone series. It offers excellent audio results with the gold-sputtered 6mm diphagram and is the best condenser microphone under $100 to use at home.

Features of MXL V67G.

• Six microns density gold-sputtered diphagram, which provides excellent audio results. 
• The 32mm capsule and built-in EQ circuit facilitate the microphone to have a high-frequency range. 
• Frequency response of about 30Hz to 20kHz.
• MXL V67G comes with a gold-sputtered and six microns density diphagram. 

Pros

• Best microphone under $100 for vocals. 
• Satisfactory frequency response.
• Incredible price/performance ratio.

Cons

• Not compatible with big sounds like drums.
• There is no shock mount.

Blue Ember

Check latest price of Blue Ember XLR Condenser Mic

Blue Ember is an XLR connectivity condenser microphone that offers excellent audio results in recording and streaming. It has a customizable cardioid capsule that prevents breath plosives and background noise. Its dark blue and aesthetic body gives a perfect look when facing the camera.

Features of Blue Ember.

• Frequency response of about 40 Hz-20kHz.
• Customizable blue condenser Ember.
• Cardioid polar pattern reduces background music.
• The slim aesthetic body provides a perfect look in front of the camera.

Pros

• Affordable price.
• XLR cable and mic stand included. 
• Cardioid polar capsule to minimize room noise.

Cons

• Requires multiple accessories which are not available in the inbox.

Behringer B-1

Check latest price of Behringer B-1 Studio Condenser Microphone

Behringer B-1 is a large condenser gold-sputtered microphone available at an affordable price. It is the best microphone for under $100 because it has a switchable high pass filter, cardioid polar pattern, wide frequency range, and SPL capability of 148db. 

Features of Behringer B-1.

• The frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz.
• Behringer B1 is capable of reducing unwanted noise.
• Low self-noise with an SPL capacity of 148db. 

Pros

• SPL capacity of about 148db.
• Affordable.
• Durable and superior build quality.

Cons

• There are consistent complaints about shock mount.

MXL 990

Check latest price of MXL 990, XLR Connector Condenser Microphone

MXL 990 is the perfect combination of quality, durability, affordability, and reliability, making it the best microphone under $100 and the most recommended microphone. It offers a solid bass and silky sweet high-end to record vocals, instrument, live recordings, and much more. 

Features of MXL 990.

• Gold sputtered diphagram. 
• Perfect for recording vocals, drum overhead, and acoustic guitar.
• SPL capacity of 133db. 
• Frequency response range of 30Hz-20kHz.

Pros

• MXL 990 has a more miniature capsule that provides a high-frequency range.
• XLR cable and mic stand are included in the box.
• MXL 990 has a classic look.

Cons

• MXL 990 isolation can be better.
• There is noticeable self-noise in MXL 990.

List of the best condenser microphone under $100 (USB Connectivity)

Rode NT-USB Mini

Check latest price of Rode NT-USB-Mini USB Microphone

In the list of best microphone under 100, RODE NT USB mic stands on the top. The Rode NT USB is a highly versatile microphone, capable of recording side signals and suitable for recording vocals and music and podcasts and voiceovers. It is helpful for all popular recording software that is running on Windows, macOS, and Apple iPad. For the latter, you have the choice between the application “RØDE Rec,” “GarageBand,” or any other recording application accepting an external microphone. For use in Apple iPad, you will need a USB adapter and the Apple Camera Connection Kit.

Feature

• The microphone is cardioid directivity
• The frequency response of Rode NT-USB is 20Hz-20KHz
• The weight of the microphone is around 520g
• Metal framed

Pros

• The deep and rich quality of sound
• Crystal sound

Cons

• The stand of Rode NT USB does not fit and folds which troubles in fixing in Case.

Blue’s Yeti Nano

Check latest price of Blue Yeti Nano Professional Condenser USB Microphone

Blue’s Yeti Nano is a USB microphone with which you record podcasts, stream games, and create voiceovers. Since the headphone output is latency-free, you will hear the sound of your voice directly. It means that there will be no lag between your voice and the sound reproduction of the headphones. As a result, you will stay focused on your podcast or streaming. Want to record a group of speakers? Activate omni directional directivity. Thanks to this, the microphone picks up all the sounds around it, which allows you to record all voices, no matter their source.

Features

• This USB microphone is made for recording podcasts, streaming video games, and creating voiceovers.
• Directivity- Cardioid, Omni directional

Pros

• Activate omnidirectional directionality if you want to record a group of speakers with clarity.
• With the zero-latency headphone output, you can hear your voice recordings when you speak without lagging.

Cons 

• It is not recommended to connect the microphone to your computer through a USB hub if you find the sound quality necessary.

Blue Snowball ICE Microphone

Check latest price of Blue Snowball iCE USB Mic

This microphone will give you a new way to broadcast and capture audio, and the microphone comes with the latest feature that enhances its functions and provides better use with its accessories. It is the best deal for percussions, guitars, pianos, and music players. Due to its defined response to the voice, the Blue Snowball ICE Microphone is the most chosen by trained individuals.

Features

• Custom condenser capsule helps in providing crystal-clear sound for social sites like Skype, Messenger.
• Its cardioid polar pattern provides better sensitivity in sounds, thus preventing noise from the surrounding. 

Pros

• Sound is crystal clear for recordings of youTube.
• Frequencyresponse:40-18kHz

Cons 

• The microphone does not align with the high angle withstand.

Mackie EM-91CU

Check latest price of Mackie EM-91CU Condenser USB Microphone

Mackie EM-91CU Condenser Microphone is part of the EleMent Series EM-91CU USB Condenser Microphone, offering quality sound production and trustable reliability. Whether you need to have a meeting, record your latest video, or dialogue, the EM-91CU offers an easy plug-and-play setup.

Features 

• Sampling frequency lies around 16-bit/48kHz, so you can record sound in higher quality.
• Perfect for recording vocals, drum overhead, and acoustic guitar.
• Directivity- Cardioid, Omni directional

Pros 

• Record quickly with the included professional software, which is Pro Tools First.

Cons

• The microphone does not come up with support in Mackie Carbon.

Samson C01U Pro

Check latest price of Samson C01U Pro Condenser USB Microphone

The Samson C01U Pro is a micro USB condenser microphone for musicians who want to create their vocal recordings for podcasts, Youtube videos, and mixtapes. With the C01U, anyone can enjoy professional sound quality from a computer or laptop with a USB port.

Features 

• Perfect for voice recordings, voiceovers, or jingles.
• Microphone recoding type Mono
• Super caridiod directivity

Pros 

• Headphone jack to control your recordings.
• Plug & play.Works in Windows and Mac both

Cons

The reliability of the product is a matter for many users of Samson.

Samson Meteor

Check latest price of Samson Meteor Condenser USB Microphone

The Samson Meteor Mic is a USB microphone that has a design that is both classic and futuristic. This condenser microphone has been designed for recording voiceovers for podcasts or Youtube videos and video chatting via Skype. Do you prefer to make your recordings with your iPad? No problem: the Samson Meteor Mic also works with this famous tablet. However, you will need an iPad connection kit.

Features

• Transducer Capacitor
• Directivity Cardioid
• Microphone recording type Mono

Pros 

• They are designed for vocal recordings like voiceovers and jingles.
• Plug-and-play. Works in no time with Windows and Mac.
• Also suitable for making recordings with the iPad.

Cons

• Design can be some troublesome

CAD U37

Check latest price of CAD Audio U37 USB Studio Condenser Recording Microphone

The CAD U37 Studio Recording Mic is a USB-based microphone. As the name states, the mic is best used in the recording studio and, of course, not for live shows. The microphone is a large diaphragm condenser and has a cardioid pickup pattern.

Features 

• having 20 Hz – 20 kHz frequency range
• sensitivity: -40 dBV @ 1 Pa 
• resolution: 16 bits / 48 kHz
• attenuation pad: -10 dB
• roll off switch

Pros

• this recording microphone is best for many software.
• The microphone does not require driver software.

Cons

• Live performances could be ruin with this microphone and thus makes it challenging to adjust post-recording sessions. 

How to choose the best microphone under 100 dollars?

First, define your criteria! These parameters will be essential to study in choosing your future microphones and will above all guide the precise use that we could make of them on an instrument or a voice, in the studio or live. Finding a microphone adapted to each sound source is a real challenge, and mastering it well will constitute the art of the sound recorder and the fame of the sound engineer.

Should you choose a wired microphone or a wireless microphone?

This question arises mainly in the context of the need we have in terms of mobility. Indeed in the studio, we are less constrained by cables that can litter the floor, which becomes prohibited live for safety reasons. Wireless technology (HF) is based on the principle of a pair made up of a transmitter, i.e., the microphone itself and a receiver, generally a box whose signal will be sent to the console. Depending on its use, the transmitter can be of the hand microphone or headband microphone for live singing, or else of the tie type, more to be considered for voice recordings and interviews.

Directivity

One can choose the mic according to directivity. Directivity, also called the polar diagram, will determine the capsule’s behavior depending on the origin of the source. While choosing a mic, you should keep in mind the directivity of the mic. Here are the main directions-

Omni directional.

If the mic picks up sound from all directions, giving it 360 ° coverage, these mics are called Omni directional. They will thus pick up sources from the front, rear, and both sides.

Bidirectional / Figure 8

If the microphone picks up the sound coming from the front and the back of the capsule, it is bidirectional directivity.

Unidirectional / Cardioid

If the microphone picks up most of the sound coming from the front, a little on both sides, but in any case, not from the rear, it is a unidirectional or cardioid microphone.

Supercardioid / Hypercardioid

Super-cardioid or hyper-cardioid microphones, that is, microphones that will pick up the sound from the front, a little from both sides, and to a lesser extent, the rear.

FAQ’s on Best Microphone under $100

Q: Is a condenser mic better for vocals?

Yes, condenser mics are most recommended to be used in studios. They are best to record vocals and other high frequencies sound. Know more about Best Condenser Mic.

Q: What should I look for when buying a condenser microphone?

A: Things to keep in mind while buying a condenser microphone-

1. Frequency range.
2. Resolution.
3. Sensitivity.
4. Pickup pattern.
5. Directivity.

Q: Are condenser mic good for streaming?

A: Condenser mics are good for streaming as compared to other microphones like dynamic and all. It reduces the background noise and also capable of controlling wind plosives. 

Q: What are the benefits of a condenser microphone?

A: The benefits of a condenser microphone are as follows-

1. It is light in weight as compared to other microphones.
2. It is more sensitive than different microphones.
3. They are more preferred for live shows and streaming because they provide superior quality output.

Q: How can we use a condenser microphone on a laptop/computer?

A: Laptop/Computer can easily connect the dynamic mic to laptop/computer. Condenser mic can be used on a computer/laptop by connecting them with an XLR or USB cable.

Conclusion.

If you need a condenser microphone, this article, best microphone under 100 dollars, can be an excellent investment choice for you. These microphones are of two types, USB or XLR that provides excellent sound quality. In our research, the Blue Yeti is one of the most popular. It is a multifunction microphone, very versatile which suggest the best quality in the market. 

The Samson C01U Pro USB PC microphone is very comfortable to use and provides perfect sound for transmissions. 

In the above list, the Rode NT USB produce clear sound in its price range and available with several things. For its part, the CAD U37 microphone is affordable, compatible with iOS devices, and allows you to changes between different recording modes. 

Finally, the Blue Snowball Ice PC Microphone is the best option if you don’t want to spend a lot of money and get a pretty clean sound.