Over the last 25 years, having no-lifed just about every popular game there is, and having talked my fair amount of both trash and strategy… I think I am well qualified to tell you what the best external mics are. The goal here is to deliver crystal clear audio so you don’t annoy your teammates and so that you can get your strategy (or insult for the CSGO players out there) across without sounding stupid.
1. AVerMedia AM350 USB Condenser Microphone – Top Pick
The AVerMedia AM350 is not just a microphone; it’s a game-changer in the realm of digital communication. This USB condenser microphone is equipped with advanced Dirac technology, which optimizes sound for a finely-tuned audio experience, ensuring that your voice comes through polished and professional with minimal effort.
Key features that make the AM350 the top choice include:
- Superior Voice Amplification: The AM350 ensures that your voice is clear and crisp, without any distortion or clipping, even during the most animated performances.
- Simplified Audio Control: With integrated controls for microphone gain, headphone volume, and monitoring preferences, adjustments are straightforward and intuitive. The mic also saves your last settings automatically for convenience.
- Versatile Pickup Patterns: Choose between cardioid for a more focused sound capture and omnidirectional for capturing sound from all directions, making it versatile for any recording scenario.
- Zero-latency Audio Monitoring: Real-time audio monitoring is possible through a 3.5mm port, ensuring that you can hear yourself without delay, which is crucial during live streaming or recording.
- Advanced Software Support: Compatibility with VibeEngine software offers access to DIRAC sound effects and advanced voice settings, allowing you to tailor your audio output to your precise needs.
With its robust feature set geared towards professional-quality audio, the AM350 is ideally suited not just for gamers but also for podcasters and streamers looking to elevate their audio performance.
2. Blue Yeti USB Microphone
A popular choice among content creators, the Blue Yeti stands out for its exceptional versatility and sound quality. This microphone offers multiple pattern selection—cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, and stereo—giving users the flexibility to record in ways that best suit their environment.
- Tri-capsule Array: Produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for YouTube, game streaming, podcasting, Skype calls, and music.
- Onboard Audio Controls: Includes studio controls for headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and microphone gain—putting you in charge of every level of the recording process.
- Plug ‘n Play: Compatible with Mac and PC right out of the box with no drivers to install, making it a user-friendly option for all gamers and content creators.
3. Rode NT-USB Mini
This is a great mic, but it’s bulky! Only get this if you have the desk space. The Rode NT-USB Mini is designed to deliver studio-quality sound in a compact, easy-to-use package. It is perfect for gamers, podcasters, musicians, and other creators who need a high-quality mic that is both affordable and straightforward.
- High-Quality Condenser Capsule: Provides warmth and presence for a clear, professional sound in all your applications.
- Built-in Pop Filter: Minimizes plosives (like p and b sounds) and noise, improving the quality of your recordings.
- Magnetic Base: The detachable magnetic base provides excellent stability and easy positioning on any desktop.
- Zero-latency Monitoring: Integrated headphone output for zero-latency monitoring, allowing for real-time monitoring of microphone input.
Conclusion
Choosing the right external microphone for gaming can significantly enhance your overall experience by improving the quality of your audio communications. The AVerMedia AM350, Blue Yeti, and Rode NT-USB Mini each offer unique features that cater to different preferences and needs, making them the top choices for gamers looking to upgrade their audio setup. Whether you prioritize versatility, ease of use, or the absolute best sound quality, one of these mics will surely meet your needs, ensuring clear and effective communication during all your gaming sessions.
