The Best Microphones for Every Budget
The Best Microphones for Every Budget
It doesn’t matter where you are on your journey. From beginner to pro, every content creator or audio professional needs a quality microphone.
But how do you know which microphone is the best for your buck? Get the wrong equipment and you’ll hamper the quality of your audio and therefore your end product, whether you’re making the next hit true-crime podcast, shooting an indie film, or trying to capture quality content for TikTok.
At DIGI TECH we have almost a decade of experience supporting content creators, podcasters, filmmakers, and audio professionals with their equipment needs. Using our expert knowledge, we put together a list of the best microphones for low, mid-range, and premium budgets.
Best Budget Microphones
RODE SmartLav+
The RODE SmartLav+ is one of the best budget microphones for use on-the-go. Simply hook it up to your smartphone using the 3.5mm input for interviews, recordings, or content creation. The hands-free microphone supports Apple and Android devices so it’s incredibly convenient. It also works with any audio app that records from the headset, so you can also edit while on the move. All in all, the SmartLav+ boasts high-quality sound in a small package.
Shure SM58
The Shure SM58 is known for its extreme durability making it the ideal handheld microphone for any environment. Use it for live music, in-studio recordings, conferences, or as a portable mic for podcasts and more. Simply combine it with a high-quality digital recorder, such as the H4n Pro for recording on the go.
The Shure SM58 offers excellent sound quality with integrated wind and pop filters. Overall, if you’re looking for a sturdy, budget microphone for use on the go, this dynamic vocal microphone is a great choice.
Best Mid-Budget Microphones
DJI Mic 2
The DJI Mic 2 offers an incredible wireless range, a long battery life, and effective noise reduction, making it ideal for content creators and journalists out in the field. The lav mic and clip-on transmitter capture interviews or multiple speakers easily. When filming videos, simply mount it on a DSLR camera or plug it into your laptop or smartphone.
With the DJI Mic 2, you can expect exceptional audio clarity up to 24-bit/48kHz quality. All things considered, we think it’s one of the best mid-budget microphones as it’s so versatile and provides unmatched wireless range.
RODE X XDM-100
The RODE X XDM-100 is an advanced podcasting, streaming, and gaming microphone with a stunning aesthetic that’ll suit any gaming room. The dynamic mic captures vocals in incredible richness and the audio quality is fantastic even when processed in post-production.
The RODE X XDM-100 has a simple setup using a USB-C connection. With no external audio interface needed, you save on costs and effort. The plug-and-play microphone comes with a shock mount and pop filter included so it provides excellent value.
Best Premium Microphones
Shure SM7dB
The Shure SM7dB offers unparalleled sound quality and there’s no denying it’s a tool for professionals. The iconic aesthetic looks fantastic on-screen when you’re creating content, podcasts, voice-overs, or streaming live.
The in-built pre-amp increases your signal up to +28db capturing audio in superior quality. Its cardioid pickup pattern allows you to speak comfortably and reduces feedback issues. Plus, the dynamic mic is compatible with a wide range of audio interfaces allowing you greater freedom in your audio production. All in all, the Shure SM7dB is rich in features that generate broadcast-quality sound.
RODE NTG5
The RODE NTG5 is a moisture-resistant shotgun microphone ideal for professional videography, TV, film, and broadcasting. We consider the RODE NTG5 one of the best premium microphones on the market as it’s so easy to use. It even comes with a handy accessory kit meaning you can use the mic straight out of the box.
This microphone offers exceptional sound quality while on the move. Its rich features like ultra low-noise circuitry and smooth off-axis response make the RODE NTG5 incredibly versatile and suitable for any location.
How to Choose the Right Microphone for Your Needs
- Consider the application
The natural first step is to establish exactly what you’ll be using the microphone for. This information will govern what features you should prioritise when researching microphones.
- Consider your budget
Decide on the price range you’re looking for. Don’t forget to allocate funds for accessories such as a pop filter or boom arm if your preferred microphone doesn’t have those included.
- Choose the right type of microphone
Different microphones are better suited to different scenarios. Dynamic microphones are great for live performances, condenser microphones for capturing detailed sound, and USB microphones for plug-and-play setups.
- Check compatibility
Naturally, it’s best to choose a microphone that’s compatible with any equipment you wish to use alongside it. For instance, you may wish to check if it's compatible with your laptop, mixer, and audio interface.
- Consider the long term
A microphone is an investment in your success as a professional in the audio and content creation industries. It’s worth doing your homework to ensure the quality of the microphone is the best it can be for your budget.
DIGI TECH Has Microphones for a Variety of Budgets
Hopefully you now have a better idea of which microphone to choose. The next step is to dig a little deeper and check out the specs of the microphones you’re interested in. DIGI TECH has a vast range of microphones from top brands including those on this list plus AKG, Behringer, Audio Technica, Sennheiser, Sony, and more. Browse our catalogue now to find a microphone that matches your needs and budget.