The Best Microphone For Zoom Calls In 2024

Harlan Ellison By, Harlan Ellison
Updated
Blue Yeti USB Mic
Image credit: Amazon.com

Since the Covid-19 epidemic, everyone has used Zoom, whether for business, family gatherings, or religion. We've always used Zoom every day since early 2020 to enjoy trivia with partners across the nation, and we've discovered a massive problem to Zooming regularly: drastically changing sound quality. 

This may appear to be an audiophile problem, yet we've all experienced it. We had to turn up the level on a Zoom conversation to listen to a quiet acquaintance, then turn it down before a booming voice blasts out my earholes. Let's not even discuss the microphones packed into your earphones.

Although we can all concur that constructed microphones in smartphones, computers, and Ipads have improved over time, nothing beats a decent microphone. 

So, we put up a list of essential and inexpensive Zoom microphones that everybody, including grandmother and grandfather, can use. Continue reading for more details on the Best Microphone For Zoom Calls. When deciding which microphone is Best Microphone For Zoom Calls for you, there are a lot of factors to consider.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Blue Yeti USB Mic
Our Score:
9.7
Blue Microphones
  • Four Pickup Patterns: Flexible cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns allow you to record in ways that would normally require multiple mics.
  • Plug 'n Play on Mac and PC: Instantly start recording and streaming on Mac or PC.
  • Blue VO!CE Software: Craft the perfect broadcast vocal sound and entertain your audience with enhanced effects, advanced modulation and HD audio samples. Advanced Blue VO!CE is compatible with Yeti, Yeti Nano and Yeti X. To access Blue VO!CE, please download Logitech’s free G HUB software.
  • Onboard Audio Controls: Headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and mic gain put you in charge of every level of the recording and streaming process.
  • Custom Three-Capsule Array: Produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for YouTube, game streaming, podcasting, Zoom calls and music.
TOP Choice #2 FIFINE Metal Condenser Recording Microphone
Our Score:
9.6
FIFINE
  • USB-powered design condenser microphone for recording no need the 48v Phantom power supply, work well with Cortana, Discord, voice chat and voice recognition.
  • Gaming mic for PS4 with additional volume knob itself has a louder output and is more sensitive, your voice would be heard well enough when gaming, skyping or voice recording.
  • Applications - For Discord OBS Teamspeak Twitch. Amazing mic with Zoom Webex Amazon Chime. Great for Audacity. Kindly remind that you need to disable the sound activated recording function of the application (like "Automatically adjust volume" of Zoom) if you do not want your recording volume to decrease or jump around.
  • Solid sturdy metal construction design computer microphone with stable tripod stand is convenient when you are doing voice overs or livestreams on YouTube.
  • Plug and play USB recording microphone with 5.9-Foot USB Cable included for computer PC laptop that connects directly to USB port for record music, computer singing or podcast. Easy to use and install. (◆◆Incompatible with Xbox and Phones◆◆)
  • Cardioid gaming microphone for pc captures your voice properly, produce clear smooth and crisp sound without static noise. Great gift for gamers/streamers/youtubers at isolating the sounds from the main source and separating them from any background noise. Does the job well for streaming broadcast ,OBS and teamspeak.
TOP Choice #3 Elgato Wave:3
Best Capsule Protection
Elgato Wave:3
Our Score:
9.2
Elgato
  • Superior circuitry ensures seamless audio signal transmission
  • Use the Wave Link app to control Wave: 3 and up to seven other audio sources, plus create two independent mixes
  • Up to 24-bit / 96kHz analog to digital conversion delivers lush detail
  • Condenser capsule with a tight cardioid polar pattern captures speech with precision
  • Proprietary Clipguard technology makes distortion virtually impossible
4 TONOR Computer Cardioid Condenser
Our Score:
9.4
TONOR
  • Versatility: The shock mount can be unscrewed and attached to a boom stand with 5/8'' threaded insert directly. Note: If the threaded insert your stand comes with is 3/8'', then the 3/8'' female to 5/8'' male threaded screw adapter is needed (not included).
  • Plug and Play: With a USB 2.0 data port, the TC-777 is plug and play, no any additional driver is required. Ideal for conference, distance learning, streaming, chatting, podcasting, recording, Zoom, Skype, YouTube video, etc.
  • Easy to Install: Without any assembly, only need to unfold the three-legged stand directly and adjust the position of the pop filter, then it can be plug and play.
  • Cardioid Pickup Pattern: This mic has a cardioid pickup pattern that captures the clear, smooth and crisp sound in front of the microphone and suppresses unwanted background noise.
  • What You Get: 1 x Microphone with Power Cord(1.5m), 1 x Foldable Mic Tripod, 1 x Mini Shock Mount, 1 x Pop Filter and 1 x Manual. (Note: It is not compatible with Xbox.)
  • 3 DSP Preset Modes (Vocals, Flat, Instrument)
  • Included anodized aluminum desktop stand and integrated thread mount compatible with any standard 1/4" camera tripod thread
  • Built-in headphone output for real-time monitoring
  • Apple MFi (Made for iPhone, iPod, iPad) Certified for direct connection to any iOS device without the need for any additional adapters or connection kits.
  • Available in 2 colors gray with black foam and black with red foam
  • Automatically applies gain, EQ, compression and limiting for optimal results
  • Includes one (1) MicroB-to-USB cable and one (1) MicroB-to-Lightning cable
  • Custom-tuned microphone capsule provides best-in-class audio
  • Low-profile, portable design measures only 2.5 inches by 7 cm tall (5.5 inches by 14 cm on included stand)
  • Plug and Play: TM20 is a USB 2.0 mic, compatible with Windows and macOS. Just plug it into a laptop/desktop and get started, no driver software is required.
  • Designed for Meetings: TM20 adopts an omnidirectional pickup pattern to capture the subtle sound from 360°. The mic can pick up the voices of all speakers around it with a wide pickup range(5m/16.4ft). When you move within the room, there are no differences in timbre.
  • One Button Mute: The built-in indicator light informs the status(blue: working, red: mute). It makes your meeting more efficient while you multitask during a call to mute your mic with only one soft touch.
  • Superior Sound Quality: Built-in noise reduction technology can effectively block the noise and eliminate echo to pick up clear sound.
  • Compatibility: Not a speaker!!! The mic is perfect for online meeting/teaching and distance learning by using Zoom/Skype/GoToMeeting/WebEx/Hangouts/Fuze, etc.
7 Anker PowerConf Bluetooth Speakerphone
Our Score:
9.3
Anker
  • Optimized Clarity and Volume: Your voice is automatically balanced to make up for differences in volume and distance from the Bluetooth speakerphone.
  • Smart Voice Enhancement: PowerConf Bluetooth speakerphone utilizes a custom DSP algorithm to optimize your voice in real-time and effectively reduce background noises.
  • 360° Coverage: 6 microphones arranged in a 360° array pick up voices from all directions to instantly transform any space at home or the office into a meeting room.
  • Perfect For Home Offices: Connect to your phone via Bluetooth or to your computer with a USB-C cable—without needing to install drivers. PowerConf Bluetooth speakerphone is Zoom certified and is compatible with all popular online conferencing platforms.
  • 24 Hours of Call Time: A built-in 6,700mAh battery gives you the option to go wireless and hold meetings virtually anywhere. Integrated Anker PowerIQ technology allows you to charge other devices via PowerConf at optimized speeds.
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best microphone for zoom calls?

You may know that best microphone for zoom calls is a kind of product many customers are hesitant to pay for. It is not due to its quality but the fact that there are many factors you must consider. Nevertheless, all your worry is not a problem for us. Our knowledgeable staff will help you with the right decision.

Tech-evaluated and high-rated products are available in our list of eligible items. Here are some indispensable things you shouldn’t ignore:

Maximum Sound Pressure Level

This measurement is often expressed as decibels (dBs), and it is the highest volume the microphone can tolerate without distortion.

Attenuation Switch

Have you ever wondered what those switches at the back of Rode Videomic are for? Attenuation switches are the switches at the back. Attenuation switches on microphones reduce the output of the mic by a specific amount. This is usually between -10dB and -20dB. The microphone will become four to sixteen times more quiet than usual.

Frequency Response

The frequency response refers to the range of frequencies that a microphone can detect, usually 20hz-20Khz. Knowing the frequency range is not enough. What you need is the microphone's responsiveness to certain frequencies. Before you choose a microphone, think about the recording you are going to do. A microphone with a higher frequency, such as a dynamic microphone, may be better suited for recording bass, drums, and other musical instruments.

Connections

After you have chosen the mic type you prefer, it is time to think about how you will connect it to your system. There are two options: wireless or wired.
Traditional wired microphones transmit sound signals via a cable. They can be a hindrance to performers' movement, particularly during large productions. A wireless microphone is a good option if you need to be mobile. These wireless microphones use radio waves to transmit signals to the receiver.

Impedance

This is measured in Ohms (symbol O) and refers to the microphone's ability to receive an audio signal or AC current. Mics with a low impedance (600O and lower) retain better audio quality when used on cables that are longer than 16 feet. High impedance signals that other microphone components may be of lower quality can sometimes indicate a low quality signal.

Response Flatness

Although it might seem that flat responses are the best, a treble lift is sometimes an advantage. This applies especially to vocals. This can cause the PA system to become more sensitive to howling. The signal from speakers often gets in the microphone, creating a hissing sound. Many dynamic microphones have a treble lift, which lends itself to many vocals.

Type Of Microphone

The energy of sound waves is captured by microphones, which can then convert it into electricity in various ways. You can either use a condenser microphone or dynamic microphone to accomplish this.

Polar Pattern/Directionality

Directionality is the way a microphone picks up sounds from its surroundings. One microphone can detect sound in all directions simultaneously. Most other microphones can only pick up one direction at a time. This can be advantageous depending on the circumstances.

FAQs

How Do I Clean My Miniature Microphone Cable From Tape Remains?

Over time, residue from glue and tape can etch the cable making it less able to withstand braking. Organic oil can be used to clean the cable (e.g. Olive oil and lukewarm warm water can be used to clean the cable. Ecotech2 Multidegreaser by Finish Line has been reported to have good results.

What Is A Polar Plot And How Is It Used?

Polar plots, also known as beam patterns, show an angular dependence on the sound pressure measured by the microphone. A polar plot shows how sound pressure levels are affected by different angles of incidence. The typical angle of incidence is a 180-degree arc, with the microphone in the middle. As you move away from the centre, your pressure amplitude will decrease. The frequency dependence of measured sound pressure is not shown in polar plots. They are only obtained at one frequency. Because the pattern of the beam will vary at different frequencies, it is important to specify the measurement frequency with polar data.

Which Microphone Is Recommended For Low Frequency Measurements?

Low frequency can be referred to as a relative term. The standard 1/2" condenser test microphones and the measurement grade microphones have an -3dB point between 1 Hz and 3 Hz. This is enough for most applications. Some specialty microphones can measure down to 0.1 Hz and exceed this limit.

Does The Size Of A Microphone Impact Its Frequency And Dynamic Range?

It is important to consider the size and sensitivity of your microphone. Microphones of smaller dimensions and higher sensitivity are more capable of measuring high amplitudes or frequencies. However, microphones with a larger diameter or more sensitive can measure higher frequencies and have lower noise floors.

What Should I Do When My Miniature Microphone Gets Soaked In Water Or Sweat?

A microphone is best if it's not in contact with water. However, sweat can be a problem if the environment is professional. The microphone should be shaken to remove any water. It must then dry, perhaps near a heat source such as a radiator. Never use a hairdryer. After they have been sweat-filled, omni microphones should be rinsed in demineralized waters and dried.

Which Levels Can The Microphone Handle?

A microphone's dynamic range is the difference between its lowest and highest levels.
It is not just a function the microphone, but the preamplifier that goes with it. A microphone's dynamic range is directly related to its sensitivities.

What Microphone Is Recommended For Determining The Direction Or Noise Source Location Of Sound?

Multiple free-field microphones, placed in predefined patterns and combined with appropriate software allow spatial transformations of complex sound pressure fields to be projected to map the acoustic energy flows. Because of their general value and matching phase specifications, array microphones make a great choice for large-channel count acoustic testing. Because they allow the user to identify specific microphones quickly and easily, Transducer Electronic Data Sheets (TEDS), are highly recommended.

What Is The Noise Floor Of A Microphone?

The cartridge thermal noise specification defines the microphone's noise floor. Important to remember that preamplifier noise can have an impact on the mic and preamplifier combo's noise floor. You can also measure the sound pressure by limiting other components of the measurement chain like power supplies or data acquisition systems.

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About Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison is a writer and audio equipment enthusiast. He's particularly interested in home theater HiFi audio, and he has been the editor of The Audio Insights since its inception. Harlan is known for his sharp wit and scathing critiques, but he also has a great love of music and audio gear. When he's not writing or editing, Harlan can be found listening to music or watching movies with his wife.