A good microphone is of utmost importance to musicians. A bad microphone will often lead to frustration and a person being disheartened by their music. To prevent that, one must invest in a good microphone to capture every nuance you deliberately put into music to make it more personal. A good vocal microphone must have a wide range and be able to pick up on high, and mid-range frequencies. While if you need a microphone for recording bass, you need a mic that aces at recording lower frequencies. Here, we have a list of the 10 best microphone under $200 that do not compromise in quality despite their extremely low price. So get out that dusty guitar and get yourself a new microphone to reach the virtuoso level you want. Note: As an Amazon Associate, We earn from qualifying purchases.
1. HyperX QuadCast
A good microphone doesn’t need to break your bank just to be able to record your voice. HyperX QuadCast proves that. This microphone is an ideal one as it an all-inclusive standalone microphone that is perfect for streamers, podcasters, and gamers. This is so because the HyperX is a condenser microphone that has impressive sound quality. The microphone also includes a built-in anti-vibration shock mount that helps to isolate the mic and suppress the sound of unintentional rumbles and bumps. These sounds may be heard when the microphone was suspended on an elastic rope. It also has a tap to mute sensor with an LED status indicator for functionality and ease. With four selectable polar patterns, it is versatile and keeps the focus on the sound you want to hear. All these features make it one of the best microphone under $200.
What we like
- High quality sound is recorded
- Built-in anti-vibration shock mount
- Tap to mute sensor
- 4 selectable polar patterns
- Mic mounter is included
- Plug and play with USB adapter
What we don't like
- Has a constant hiss
- Slightly muffled sound
2. Shure SM58-LC Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone
The Shure SM58-LC Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone is designed with musicians in mind. Its frequency response is tailored to fit any kind of vocals. The midrange is brightened and there is also a bass roll-off that helps control the proximity effect. This microphone also has an effective built-in spherical wind and pop filter to make sure there is no distortion. The frequency response is 50 to 15,000Hz making it one of the best microphone under $200 as it costs only $80. The pneumatic shock-mount system helps to cut down the handling noise making the sound output only what you want to hear. The microphone also includes a uniform cardioid pickup pattern that helps to isolate the main source of the sound and minimize any sort of background noise. These features make it a must-have for all vocalists.
What we like
- Frequency response tailored to vocals
- Pneumatic Shock-mount system to reduce handling noise
- Minimizes background noise
What we don't like
-
Picks up sound of the on and off switch
3. M-Audio Uber Mic
The M-Audio Uber Mic is one of the best microphones out there for under $200 as it combines both functionality and a sleek design. Hence proving that you don’t need to spend thousands for a good microphone. It is easy to use and has an intuitive operation for any application. It has a wide range of 30 to 20,000Hz frequency response consequently. Thus, helping deliver a sound that is detailed and natural sounding. It also includes a 3 capsule condenser element that has a single point stereo and 4 selectable polar patterns to choose from. The M-Audio Uber microphone is extremely versatile as it also includes a conveniently placed headphone jack that has an internal headphone amplifier for private listening. With many placement options, it is a musician’s dream.
What we like
- Easy to use
- Wide range
- Headphone jack for private sessions
- Versatile
- Has a USB adapter
- Convenient mounting options
What we don't like
-
Does not include storage utensils to keep the mic safe
4. Samson Technologies Samson G-Track Pro Professional USB Condenser Microphone
This all-in-one microphone by Samson promises an unmatched experience that will provide you with the best sound quality and at such a low price! The Samson G-Track Pro is a professional USB microphone with an audio interface. It is ideal for gamers, streamers, and podcasters and can also be used to record music. It includes a dual 1-inch condenser capsule that has 3 selectable pickup patterns making it extremely versatile. It has instrument output so that instruments may be connected and also has a stereo headphone output that allows you to connect headphones as well. It has everything you need such as volume control switches, two-track recording modes, etc on your fingertips. Made of die-cast zinc, this microphone is also durable making it one of the best microphone under $200
What we like
- Durable
- Option to attach instruments and Stereo headphones
- Easy to reach control panel
- Versatile
What we don't like
- Does not include a mic stand adapter
- Picks up keyboard and clicking noises
5. Audio-Technica AT2035 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
The Audio Technica AT2035 is one of the best microphone under $200 and it did not make that list by being merely subpar. This microphone has a cardioid polar pattern that helps reduce background sounds that may be picked up from sides and rear hence, it improves the isolation of the desired sound. It also has a large diaphragm that helps record smooth and natural sound further increasing the quality of the recording. The high SPL handling and wide dynamic range boasts versatility and delivers likewise. The AT2035 also includes a switchable 80Hzhigh pass filter to give the sound that extra bit of boost that helps it sound more professional. A custom shock mount that is included also produces superior isolation so that only the sound you want to hear is recorded.
What we like
- Versatile
- Sound isolation
- Natural sound is recorded
What we don't like
-
The headphones and arm included are of low quality
6. AKG Pro Audio Lyra Ultra-HD Microphone
This AKG Pro Audio Lyra Microphone is known for recording ultra HD Audio that you would not expect from a microphone this cheap. It has an adaptive capsule array that helps provide four user-friendly capture modes. This microphone is also easy to set up and use as it is universally compatible. It has an intuitive plug and play setup and operation that is compatible with both Mac and PC along with smartphones and other devices. The AKG Pro Audio Microphone also includes headphone output and mix controls that have zero-latency monitoring while tracking with full control over output volume, mic gain, and mute. It has versatile mounting options so that it can be easily attached and used everywhere. All these features make it worthy of being of the best microphone for under $200.
What we like
- Easy to use
- High quality sound
- Versatile
- Headphone output and mix controls
- Versatile mounting option
- Modern design
What we don't like
- More noise on monitoring
- Does not have a mute button light indicator
7. AmazonBasics Professional USB Condenser Microphone
The Amazon Basics Professional microphone is one that is designed to be used by professionals. It is a professional USB condenser microphone with three condenser capsules for 4 different recording patterns that make it extremely versatile. The body of the microphone is made with durable metal and with a metal mesh grill, housing, and stand making it an elegant device that is beautiful and functional. The microphone also has an OLED screen for easy readability. The microphone has an integrated headphone amplifier that allows for zero-latency monitoring and other controls including pattern selection, volume control, and a mute button. The Amazon Basics microphone is a compatible and versatile device that deserves its place on the list of one of the best microphone under $200.
What we like
- Versatile
- Durable
- Has 4 different recording pattern
- Has an OLED display
What we don't like
- Less sensitive
- No case for transportation
8. Sennheiser E609 Silver Super Cardioid Instrument Microphone
The Sennheiser E609 is a top tier microphone with a surprisingly low price. It has a hum compensating coil that helps reduce electrical interference that may be distracting. The Neodymium ferrous magnet with boron keeps the mic stable regardless of climate providing a stable sound without any interference from other objects. This microphone has a super-cardioid pickup pattern that helps provide isolation from other onstage signals. It also has a 3-6000Hz midrange peak that helps capture an instrument’s true tone. Hence, this microphone is one of the best microphone for under $200. The microphone can be used in various different ways. It can be hung from a speaker cabinet, can be used with or without a stand, etc. Making it a go-to microphone for a lot of people.
The microphone has a rugged metal construction makes it look sleek while also being extremely functional.
What we like
- Hum compensating coil reduces electrical interference
- Magnets keep the mic stable
- 10 year warranty
- Durable and stylish built
What we don't like
-
Not good at capturing drum sounds
9. Movo UM800 Desktop USB Microphone
Sometimes using microphones can be complicated but not anymore with the Movo UM800, you can record any audio whether it be podcasts, gaming commentary, or music almost instantly. The broadcast-quality that this microphone offers is broadcast quality. It has a three capsule array that captures 48kHz and has a powerful frequency response of 20-20000Hz. With universal adaptability, this microphone is surely a cut above its competitors and it is also adaptable with desktop computers that run on IOS, Android, PC, or Mac. It is apt at creating any kind of content you desire. The onboard controls that are featured include a mute switch along with headphone volume control and live monitoring. The Movo UM800 has a collapsible stand swivel and is capable of polar selections that make it versatile as a sound recording device and a strong contender among the best microphone under $200.
What we like
- Versatile
- Durable
- Comes with a collapsible stand
What we don't like
-
The stand is low quality
10. Beyerdynamic FOX USB Condenser Microphone
The Beyerdynamic FOX USB microphone is of a studio-grade quality that can be used in professional recording studios. It has the capability to convert signals accurately by using a large-diaphragm condenser capsule to ensure that the sound captured to be heard later is clear and crisp. The headphone output of the Beyerdynamic FOX microphone has zero-latency monitoring and also has a mute button that can be used for muting the microphone. The gain switch is also present and it helps in the mixing of loud instruments. It is extremely versatile as it can connect with any smart device and even with PCs. With its sleek design, this microphone is a cut above its competitors and proves that low price does not necessarily mean low quality.
What we like
- Versatile
- Mix Switch is present
- Has a mute button
What we don't like
- Mute button is faulty
- Gain settings are rough
Conclusion
A good microphone can often cost thousands of dollars and that is not possible for everyone to muster up. However, there are some great low-budget options that sound exactly the extremely expensive ones proving that price does not always equal quality. These relatively cheap microphones have excellent voice isolation with which they can block out background noise and can capture only the sound you intend to record. They also have a sturdy and durable built without being too clunky. They are designed to be sleek while also having all the functionality you may ever need in a microphone. Many of the microphones listed in the list above are below $200 so you can fulfill your musician dreams without taking a bit hit on your wallet.
BEST OF LUCK WITH YOUR PURCHASE!