Has it ever happened to you that you went to a concert by your favorite band? But when they hit the stage and the lead vocalist leaned into the mic, yelling out the lyrics, the vocals were muddy, distorted, and just downright awful. This could be due to the low quality of the microphones. That is why you require the best budget microphone for vocals in order to sound your best while not breaking the bank!
A faulty microphone can sometimes make a talented singer sound awful. That’s why investing in a high-quality microphone is essential for any singer, whether they’re just starting out as one or aiming to broaden their career.
There are a lot of affordable, high-quality microphones out there that can help you sound better when you sing. In this article, we’ll talk about some of the best budget vocal microphones and what they offer.
We’ve put some professional buying tips on the blog to help you choose the best microphones for singing. So keep scrolling to learn about the best cheap microphones under $200.
5 Best Budget Microphones For Vocals (2024)
See the table below for a summary of the best budget microphone for vocals:
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
Best Overall1  |
| Pneumatic Shock Mount, Spherical Mesh Grille with Built-in Pop Filter, A25D Mic Clip, Storage Bag, 3-pin XLR Connector | |
Best Performance2  | Rode NT USB Condenser Microphone | USB Condenser Microphone with Tripod Base, Carrying Case, Mic St Mount, Pop Filter, USB Cable | |
Best Features3  | Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone | high SPL handling, wide dynamic range, extended frequency response, XLR Cable input, 20 dB SPL, integral 3-pin XLRM type | |
Best Budget4  |
| 0 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response, 150 dB SPL, Sensitivity: 24 mV/Pa, clear sound with accurate sonic detail for vocal, Current<= 3 mA | |
Best Quality5  | MAONO Vocal Condenser Cardioid Podcast Mic | 92 kHz/24-bit Vocal Condenser Cardioid, USB 2.0 data port, 6mm Electret Condenser Transducer & Magnet Ring, 3.5mm jack |
Now let’s go through the features of these microphones for vocals in detail and find out why they are the best.
Shure SM58 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone—Best Overall
Editor’s Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Roger Daltrey, Paul McCartney, Henry Rollins, and many other singers and musicians have used and loved this dynamic SM58 microphone. The microphone’s versatility is one reason it is so well-liked by musicians. It shines both in recording studios and on stages because it lets vocals and instruments stand out clearly.
The SM58 dynamic microphone can bring any performance to life. The microphone ensures clarity; it has a uniform cardioid polar pattern that plays back every note as it was meant to, ensuring a clear sound every time. What makes the microphone unique is the spherical mesh grille on the microphone and the built-in pop filter that keeps any unwanted noise out of the mix. This microphone is built to last because of its enamel-coated metal construction, and its stand adapter is strong enough that it won’t break.
The microphone’s frequency range is 50 Hz–15 kHz, making it perfect for singers and the best microphone for recording vocals at home. The microphone comes with an A25D swivel stand adapter, a 95A2313 storage bag, and last but not least, it comes with a 2-year warranty.
What Customers are Saying?
The vocal microphone has been rated by singers worldwide more than 13,500 times, with an average rating of 4.8 stars. This makes it a very popular microphone. The fact that the microphone could filter out certain plosives is one of the reasons why it became so popular, but people also praised it because of its capacity to eliminate wind noise.
Customers have praised the microphone for its outstanding quality. In particular, singers who record vocals in their home studios have hailed it as the best microphone for recording vocals at home. Customers’ reviews on Amazon stated that the microphone is of excellent quality and substantial.
Get this celebrity-approved Shure SM58 Cardioid Dynamic microphone now and wake up that singer in you!
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Rode NT USB Condenser Microphone—Best Performance
Editor’s Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Rode’s NT-USB is a high-quality USB microphone that does not require special drivers or third-party equipment to work well. It has a solid, long-lasting build that does not cut corners on quality components. The design is well-considered and includes a convenient headphone monitor and two sturdy controls. It also has a well-fitted pop shield and a decent mount at no extra charge!
The sound signature of the NT-USB is based on RDE’s established studio microphones. The NT-USB has a quality cardioid capsule set up in a standard studio fashion, except that it features a USB interface. The proximity effect is negligible. The frequency response of the microphone goes well above 10 kHz. This makes for a very clear sound. Also, the frontal side is sensitive enough to pick up low sounds as well.
The NT-USB is easily mounted on a boom arm or mic stand because it connects directly to your PC or Mac via the supplied 6 m USB cable. It also has a high-quality headphone output that lets you monitor directly from the microphone, giving you more options and making things neater. So if you are searching for the best budget condenser mic for vocals, Rode’s NT-USB is a great option to consider.
What Customers are Saying?
With over 11,000+ reviews, 81% of people gave the microphones five stars due to their excellent features. Testers of the microphone on Amazon praised it for having a transparent, natural sound. Customers said the microphone is excellent for all vocals and makes your recordings sound professional.
A few people complained about the Ring and Boom Stick’s plastic design, but others praised the microphone’s meticulous design and exceptional vocal results. It is simple to use and, more importantly, offers high-quality sound, which is why people love it and consider it the best budget condenser mic for vocals.
Order this Rode NT USB microphone today!
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Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone—Best Features
Editor’s Rating: 4.7 out of 5
The audio technology performs much better than its low price would imply. The condenser is ideal for recording loud sound sources because it has a cardioid polar pattern and a high SPL of 20 dB. The stand mount lets you turn the microphone 360 degrees, and the hinge lets you move it around. The mount also comes with a 5/8-inch threaded adapter that lets you put it on any standard microphone stand.
Yes, the AT2020 can handle almost anything you throw at it, whether you’re a belter, a screamer, or a fire engine. Low-mass diaphragms with custom engineering offer superior transient response and extended frequency response. By picking up less sound from the sides and back, the cardioid polar pattern makes it easier to find the source of the sound.
If you want a shock mount with the XLR microphone AT8458a, you must buy it separately. Audio Technica is one of the best budget microphones with a high-quality A/D converter!
What Customers are Saying?
People praised this low-cost Audio-Technica microphone, giving it 12,000+ ratings and 4.7 stars on Amazon. According to reviews on Amazon, the condenser mic is excellent for recording music and the best budget condenser mic for vocals. Many people said that the XLR microphone picks up voices well, sounds good, has a clean sound, is strong, and has great pickup.
Many people liked how sturdy the microphone was and how versatile it was, even though it was a basic model.
Hurry up and grab your own Audio-Technica AT2020 now if you are searching for the best microphone for recording vocals beginner.
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AKG P120 High-Performance Recording Microphone—Best Quality
Editor’s Rating: 4.6 out of 5
When it comes to singing or recording vocals, the AKG P120 is a flexible condenser microphone with a diaphragm that measures 2/3 of an inch and performs exceptionally well. Even though it sounds neutral across the whole range of frequencies, the top end is a little bit stronger, just like most affordable condenser microphones.
The P120 is a real condenser microphone that is great in all ways, including quality, performance, and value. The low-mass diaphragm makes a clear sound with precise sonic details, which is great for recording vocals, speech, and instruments in home project studios or professional recording facilities.
Because its sensitivity is 24 mV/Pa, the AKG P120 is a great choice for singers who need to perform solo. The Bass-Cut Filter eliminates rumble and footfall noise, and it’s one of its most distinguished features. Also, its sturdy design and all-metal construction mean that it can stand up to the hard use it will get every day.
What Customers are Saying?
With over 2500+ ratings, people overwhelmingly expressed their fondness for the microphone. Reviewers on Amazon unanimously agreed on one crucial point: considering its price of just $99, this condenser microphone performs exceptionally well. It’s hailed as best microphone for recording vocals at home.
This microphone is nothing short of a star, especially for those stepping into the world of studio recording. It’s been hailed by many as the absolute best microphone for recording vocals on computer. The shape, style, and crispness that the microphone provides were very well received by those who used it.
Buy the AKG P120 now and record the finest songs with this best microphone for recording vocals beginner.
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MAONO Vocal Condenser Cardioid Podcast Mic—Best Budget
Editor’s Rating: 4.5 out of 5
This condenser microphone is powered by a 192 kHz/24-bit professional sound chipset, This means that the USB microphone can support a high-resolution sampling rate. It works well as a vocal mic because it can pick up sounds from 30 Hz to 16 kHz. The USB 2.0 data port on the microphone makes it simple to hook up to a Linux computer without installing any additional driver software. The USB mic’s 16mm electret condenser transducer ensures a robust low-end response.
The audio picked up by this professional condenser microphone is of the highest quality. The magnet ring on the USB microphone cable has a solid anti-interference function that lets you hear things more naturally. The high-quality, proprietary 50mm large-aperture drivers and their powerful, precise bass will make your ears happy.
All of these features combined make it an exceptional choice as the best microphone for recording vocals on a computer. An effective active background noise cancellation feature in the microphone isolates the sounds you want to hear. If you’re in the market for a cheap microphone for singing, the MAONO Vocal Condenser Cardioid Podcast Mic is the perfect choice for you.
What Customers are Saying?
The microphone received high ratings for its surprisingly good audio quality from over 3,400 users worldwide. Those who have used it have reported that it picks up some ambient noise, but those who have not said that it sounds perfect out of the box after applying a filter and said it’s the best cheap microphone for singing.
Some people have said that the microphone has a good balance and picks up the voice perfectly. Numerous individuals said that setting up the microphone took only a few minutes.
Purchase MAONO vocal microphone today and enjoy crystal-clear vocals with every use of this best microphone for recording vocals beginner.
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How to Choose the Best Budget Microphone for Vocals [Buyer’s Guide 2024]
Key Factors for Choosing the Best Budget Microphone for Vocals
If you’re unsure which vocal microphone to buy, don’t skip our buyer’s guide. Our buying guide covers the most important things to consider when looking for the best vocal microphone.
1. Type Of Microphones
When deciding what kind of vocal mic you need, you first think about where you’ll use it. If you need a microphone for a live performance, you’ll need one of the best live vocal microphones. If you’re working in a studio, you’ll need something else. If you are using a computer then you would require the best microphone for recording vocals on computer.
A dynamic microphone is more durable and gives a broader frequency range on a noisy stage with lots of surrounding sound. However, the big diaphragm condenser is the way to go when recording vocals in a controlled studio room.
2. Proximity Effect
If you are a singer, bringing the microphone closer to your mouth will increase your voice’s bass. The sound gets thinner as the microphone recedes. It also helps modify the sound. It’s crucial to remember that not every vocal microphone offers a proximity effect. You should consider the proximity effect of a microphone when comparing various vocal microphones.
3. Frequency Response
The frequency range a microphone can pick up is called its frequency response. It is measured in hertz from the lowest frequency to the highest frequency. A good vocal microphone can pick up sounds from 80 Hz to 15 kHz.
4. Sensitivity
The microphone’s sensitivity indicates how well it acts as a transducer or transfers the energy of sound waves into electric signals. The mic’s sensitivity rating is based on the output voltage (the audio signal’s strength) and the highest sound pressure level it can handle. Using microphones with higher sensitivity ratings will increase the signal output volume.
5. Pickup Pattern
How your microphone picks up sound affects how it sounds and what it does. This determines where the microphone will pick up sound. Like an omnidirectional microphone, it can pick up sound from all directions. Figure-8 microphones are very directional and pick up sound best from the front and back. Cardioid microphones are more omnidirectional. So consider a microphone’s pickup pattern and choose one that suits your needs.
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What Are the Different Types of Vocal Microphones?
Every brand and model of microphone has its own special qualities that affect how it sounds. Let’s dig into each one.
1. Dynamic Microphone
They are cheap, durable, and sound great on some of the most common recording sources. Dynamic microphones use electromagnetism to turn sound into an electric signal. These microphones are like speakers that work in reverse.
They are known to work best for loud, live vocals. They also work well for brass instruments, keyboards, drums, and guitar amps. A dynamic microphone is generally considered the best microphone for singing live. Moreover, it is regarded as the best microphone for recording vocals on computer due to its exceptional audio quality.
2. Large Diaphragm condenser Microphones
Large-diaphragm condensers function as both a microphone and an instrument mic. Their purpose is to make the source of the sound more significant, engaging, and beautiful. Large-diaphragm microphones are often used for recording vocalists, ensembles, acoustic guitars, and pianos.
3. Small Diaphragm condenser Microphone
Small diaphragm condensers are typically end-fired, thin, and pencil-shaped. But, despite their small size, they are just as functional.
Small-diaphragm condenser microphones are the most common type of microphone used in recording instruments. They are also excellent at catching the sound of acoustic guitars and vocalists.
4. Ribbon Mics
Ribbon microphones are coveted for their rich, antique sound. Almost anything can be recorded using ribbon microphones, including guitars, brass, strings, drum overheads, and room ambiance. They can record vocals and sound great when they do, but to protect the ribbon, they must be used in partially controlled environments. Ribbon microphones are generally not the first choice and best microphone for singing live.
5. USB Microphones
Due to their plug-and-play functionality, USB microphones have steadily gained popularity. Therefore, using a USB microphone for singing is the best way to record vocals wirelessly because it allows you to do away with wires. These days, there is a sizable selection of USB-compatible microphones. They come in condenser and dynamic mic varieties for particular purposes like vocal and instrument miking.
6. Wireless Microphones
Although wireless microphones are similar in structure to wired microphones, they have a transmitter that gives them more mobility. The most widely used wireless technologies operate on digital, UHF, or VHF frequencies. UHF band usage is common in low-cost wireless mic systems that provide good sound and value. It is considered the best microphone for singing live.
How Did We Select the Best Budget Mics for Vocals?
Before we put these vocal microphones on our list of the best, we looked at what made them stand out. These microphones’ sensitivity, frequency response, proximity effect, sound quality, and pickup pattern were evaluated. We looked at the ratings and positive comments left by Amazon customers who bought and used the microphone. After reading the reviews and ensuring they were good, we put these microphones on the list.
We relied a lot on musician reviews of these microphones and used other sources to back up the good reviews. We also made certain that we chose the most affordable cheap microphone for singing.
FAQs Related to Microphones for Vocal
Q: Which mic is best for singing for beginners?
A: It depends on what you need to record, but a simple dynamic or condenser microphone is a versatile choice. For dynamics, we recommend the Shure SM57 or SM58, and for a condenser, the Audio-Technica AT2020 is a simple, affordable mic that’s easy to use.
Q: Is phone mic good for singing?
A: The microphone on a phone may not accurately capture your voice. Higher frequencies, particularly in the soprano range, often experience increased distortion. This is because phone microphones are primarily designed for speech recording.
Q: What’s the best cheap microphone for recording music?
A: All of these microphones are considered best for recording music, which is why we included them in our list. However, if you’re looking for a specific recommendation, the Shure SM58 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone stands out as a top choice.
Q: How does the best cheap microphone for gaming compare to more expensive ones?
A: While pricier microphones may offer additional features and higher-end audio quality, a good a best cheap microphone for gaming can still provide clear and reliable voice capture for gaming without straining your budget.
