A Guide to Mics for Content Creators (It’s Simple, We Promise)

What’s the best microphone for YouTube? It’s the one that delivers high-quality audio when – and where – you need it. Yep, you may need a different microphone for each situation. The topic can be complicated, but we have you covered.

This starter guide includes:

  •       An explainer on why good audio matters
  •       The only time it’s okay to use your phone’s built-in microphone
  •       The two most important considerations for picking the right mic
  •       A breakdown of the most common types of microphones  used by content creators
  •       Recommendations for mics that you might want to add to your production toolbox

 The Importance of High-Quality Audio

Most YouTubers focus on capturing high-quality visuals. But some, especially those new to the platform, don’t invest the same effort into their audio. They should. Research has shown that the quality of audio can impact our perception of a person’s credibility.

In the study, researchers played identical talks from scientific conferences. Then, they used iMovie to alter the sound quality of the recordings. What happened when the audio quality was reduced? The speaker was perceived as less intelligent, less likable, and less credible.

When building your channel on YouTube, your likeability and credibility are important. Don’t let bad audio lower someone’s opinion of you.

Can I Use the Microphone on My Camera?

The built-in microphone on your camera is fine for recording personal videos. For those, it doesn’t matter if you capture background noise or if voices are hazy. For professional videos, every audio professional agrees. Use an external microphone.

Picking the Right Mic: The 2 Most Important Considerations

If you type “microphone” into the search box on Amazon, there are more than 60,000 results. Not very helpful for a YouTuber looking for guidance. But two considerations can help you narrow the field.

First, you should know what kind of audio you’ll be recording. Indoors or outdoors? Vocals or music? Stationary shots or moving ones?

Second, you should set a budget. If your channel is new, it’s harder to justify dropping a big chunk of cash. Good news: There are some budget-friendly options that still provide good quality.

Types of Microphones for YouTubers

You’ve already determined where you’ll be shooting and how much you can spend. Now it’s time to dig into the different types of mics to find the best microphone for your YouTube videos.

Condenser Microphones

Condenser microphones are the perfect choice for recording in a studio environment. If you are a musician or a podcaster, you may already be familiar with these. They provide a clean, crisp sound.

 Condenser mics require external power. This isn’t an issue for most people, as they are mainly used in a studio. But you should be aware that these mics are fragile. Handle them with care.

Pro Tip

Even if you think a room is quiet, condenser mics can pick up subtle sounds such as a car driving past your window. 

When is this the right choice?

Condenser microphones are perfect for environments where you have complete control, such as in-studio recording.

Recommended Model

This Behringer B-1 Studio Condenser Microphone looks good, functions well, and it’s reasonably priced.

Dynamic Microphones

Dynamic microphones are good for recording live, crowded events. They reduce background noise while capturing stronger sounds. For best results, focus the mic towards your audio source.

Their audio won’t be as crisp as what you can record using a condenser microphone in a studio. But a dynamic mic is a solid choice for non-studio environments.

Pro Tip

Curious to hear the difference between a condenser mic and a dynamic mic? These sound clips make it obvious to even an amateur ear.

When is this the right choice?

Dynamic microphones are ideal for loud places and recording in a crowd. They provide high-quality audio for interviews outside of a studio environment. 

Recommended Model

This Shure SM58-CN Dynamic Microphone is durable enough to withstand accidental drops. This is important when you’re primarily using it in crowded places.

Lavalier Microphones

Lavalier microphones are small and discreet. They can be clipped onto – or under – your clothing. The ideal placement is on the chest.

When using a lavalier mic, there’s no need to try to speak into it. In fact, it’s better if you don’t. Speaking naturally means less potential for distortion or large swings in volume.

These are perfect for times when you’re moving around or need to have your hands free. Lavalier microphones are available in wired and wireless models.

Pro Tip

Use wired when you can. Choose wireless only when you must. When using wireless systems, there’s a chance of dropouts (brief losses of sound) or RF interference (short bursts of static). 

When is this the right choice?

Consider using a lavalier microphone anytime you’re moving around or need to have your hands free. They are good for in-studio recording. With an added windscreen, they can also be used outdoors.

Recommended Model

This wired lavalier microphone by Rode features a Kevlar reinforced cable. No need to worry about stretching or snapping it. One word of caution about all Rode microphones: Rode doesn’t offer warranties for their products purchased from unauthorized dealers.

Shotgun Microphones

Shotgun microphones reduce background noise in a way that other microphones can’t. This makes them a popular choice for many environments, especially outdoors.

Just like a shotgun, they need to be aimed at their target. So they’re usually used when a subject is stationary. Their range varies. Lower-end models can typically capture audio from a distance of three feet away. Higher-end shotgun mics might reach closer to ten feet.

Pro Tip

Many shotgun mics can be mounted to your DSLR camera. Check your device mountings throughout the day. Loose mountings can cause unwanted noise, which can wreak havoc in post-production.

When is this the right choice?

Shotgun microphones are a fine choice for a variety of settings: vlogging, interviews, live recording, sports events, outdoor places.

Recommended Model

This Rode Shotgun microphone is a budget-friendly option to try. Its 9V battery offers 70 hours of battery life. A higher-end version is this Sennheiser Pro Audio Wireless Microphone System. It also operates on batteries. This is a nice feature since not all video cameras are able to provide phantom power to a mic. The Sennheiser’s low battery indicator warns you when you have 8 hours remaining.

Common Questions

Is an XLR microphone best sounding?

Not necessarily, but most high-end, professional microphones use an XLR connection.

Is a USB microphone OK?

Yes. USB is just a connection. The sound quality is all in the Analog-to-Digital converters, so if the microphone has a high-quality converter inside, it’ll work just great. The Blue Yeti is a favorite among content creators looking to use a USB connection.

What polar pattern should I use?

Most microphones have a cardioid pattern which is best to capture the sound right in front of it and avoid any ambient noise. However, if you’re trying to record the sounds of the room and to capture the ambient tones, an omni pattern (omni-directional) may be what you’ll want.

The figure 8 pattern is a good option if you happen to only have one microphone for an interview and you want to capture the voice of two people without picking up as much sound from the sides.

Some microphones come with a set polar pattern while others have a switch.

Are microphones expensive?

The price range of microphones is as wide as with any type of equipment in your YouTube productions. And just like with anything, you don’t always need to go with the most expensive option to get superior audio quality and amazing sound. Most of the time the magic is in the microphone placement and recording environment.

The Best Microphone for Your YouTube Videos? It Depends

Post-production can fix a lot of things, but it has limitations. It’s best to record high-quality audio from the beginning. Using the right microphone helps. Sure, you may not remember the term “lavalier.” You might just call it a “clip-on mic.” That’s okay. We’re not here to quiz you.

We just want you to produce the best quality content you can. Now go create something awesome.