Cheap Microphones & Headsets for Gaming in 2024
Affordable Gaming Mics: Top Picks for Clear Communication
In gaming, clear and crisp communication can be the difference between victory and defeat. And if you’re a streamer, quality audio can help distinguish yourself as a professional, helping you grow your audience faster.
While high-end microphones offer top-tier performance, you don’t have to break the bank to get a quality device.
This article explores the best cheap microphones for gaming that deliver excellent sound quality without draining your wallet.
To adequately cover PC and console gamers, we’ve compiled options for standalone gaming mics, as well as headphones with integrated microphones.
Click below to see the best cheap gaming mics for your preference.
Disclaimer: This blog post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support my work and allows me to continue providing valuable content. Thank you for your support!
What to Look for in a Cheap Gaming Microphone
Before diving into our top picks, it's important to understand what features to look for in a budget-friendly gaming microphone:
Sound Quality: The primary function of any microphone is to capture your voice clearly. Look for microphones with good frequency response and noise-cancellation features.
Build Quality: Durable materials and solid construction are essential to ensure longevity.
Compatibility: Ensure the microphone is compatible with your gaming setup, whether you’re on a PC, console, or mobile device.
Ease of Use: Plug-and-play options and intuitive controls can make a big difference, especially for beginners.
Price: While the focus is on affordability, ensure the microphone offers value for money.
Top 5 Best Cheap Microphones for Gaming
Top Pick: FIFINE USB Microphone (K669B) - exceptional sound clarity and durability with its all-metal construction and cardioid polar pattern for just $30, but lacks a mute button, detachable cable, and height adjustment, making it less flexible for some gaming setups.
Great Accessories: TONOR TC-777 USB Microphone - excellent sound clarity and easy setup with solid accessories: shock mount, pop filter, and durable metal tripod for around $40, but it lacks a mute button, volume control, and height adjustment, requiring close proximity for optimal performance.
Most Popular: Blue Snowball iCE - clear audio quality and reliable performance with its cardioid condenser capsule and easy plug-and-play setup for about $50, but it lacks a mute button, volume control, and height adjustment, and comes with a plastic shell.
Best Complete Kit: Maono AU-A04 USB Microphone Kit - professional-quality sound and a comprehensive setup with a shock mount, pop filter, and table-mount boom arm for around $50, but it lacks a mute button, volume control, and headphone jack, limiting some on-the-fly adjustments.
With Mute Button: JOUNIVO USB Gaming Microphone - clear voice capture with noise-canceling technology, a mute button with LED indicator, and a convenient adjustable gooseneck for about $30, but it lacks volume control and a headphone jack, limiting its audio management capabilities.
1. FIFINE USB Microphone (K669B)
Features:
Sound Quality: Provides excellent sound clarity with a cardioid polar pattern that captures your voice while minimizing background noise.
Build Quality: All-metal construction ensures durability.
Compatibility: USB connectivity makes it compatible with most devices.
Ease of Use: Plug-and-play functionality with no need for additional drivers.
Price: Priced around $30, it's one of the best bargains for quality sound.
Why We Recommend It: For the price, this is the best gaming microphone on the market. With a metal body, ultra low noise cardioid capsule, and volume knob, you won’t find any competitors offering similar for this low price. The biggest downside is no height adjustment. If this is an issue, get a cheap boom arm.
Pros
- Affordable
- Metal body
- Volume control knob
- Low noise
- Tilting tripod mount
- Mac, Windows or Play Station compatible
Cons
- No mute button
- Cable isn't detachable
- No headphone jack
- No height adjustment
- Not Xbox compatible (requires adapters)
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Plug-and-Play Simplicity: The FIFINE K669B is designed for effortless setup. Just plug it into your Mac, Windows PC, or PlayStation (note: it is not compatible with Xbox) and select it as the default device in your software settings. For mobile recording, use a USB adapter (Type C, Micro USB, or Lightning) to connect with Android, iPhone, or iPad.
Robust Build Quality: The microphone features an all-metal body with a professional metallic black finish, ensuring durability and a premium feel. Its 550-gram weight helps keep it stable on your desk.
Versatile Mounting Options: The microphone comes with a vertical and horizontal adjustable pivot mount, making it easy to set up the perfect pickup angle. The foldable and detachable tripod is ideal for portability.
Integrated Volume Control: The volume dial allows for quick adjustments to maintain consistent audio levels. Turn it all the way down to mute the microphone when needed.
Cardioid Polar Pattern: The microphone's cardioid pattern ensures focused sound pickup, capturing clear and detailed audio ideal for voice-over, vocal recording, and streaming.
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Type: Condenser
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency Response: 20-20kHz
Sensitivity: -34d±30% (at 1kHz)
S/N Ratio: 78dB
Self-Noise: 16dB
Bit Rate & Sample Rate: 16 bit 48kHz
Power Supply: 5V USB power
Output Connection: USB 2.0
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• FIFINE K669 USB Microphone
• Pivot Mount
• Tripod
Features:
Sound Quality: Features a cardioid pickup pattern that captures sound directly in front of the mic, reducing unwanted background noise.
Build Quality: Comes with a durable metal tripod stand.
Compatibility: USB 2.0 data port, compatible with most devices.
Ease of Use: Simple plug-and-play setup.
Price: Around $40, offering good value for its performance.
Why We Recommend It: The TONOR TC-777 is a great starter microphone, offering excellent sound clarity and ease of use at an affordable price.
Pros
- Affordable
- Shock mount
- Pop filter
- Mac, Windows or Play Station compatible
Cons
- No mute button or volume control
- No height adjustment
- High noise - must have 1-2" away from mouth
- Not Xbox compatible (requires adapters)
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Plug and Play: The TC-777 features a USB 2.0 data port, making it incredibly easy to set up. Simply plug it into your computer—no additional drivers required. It's ideal for various uses, including gaming, streaming, podcasting, recording, Zoom meetings, and Skype calls.
Cardioid Pickup Pattern: Designed with a cardioid pickup pattern, this microphone captures clear, smooth, and crisp sound from the front while minimizing unwanted background noise, ensuring your voice comes through loud and clear.
Easy Installation: The three-legged stand unfolds, and the pop filter position can be easily adjusted. No complex assembly is required—just plug it in and start using it.
Versatility: The included shock mount can be unscrewed and attached to a boom stand with a 5/8'' threaded insert. If your stand has a 3/8'' threaded insert, you'll need a 3/8'' female to 5/8'' male threaded screw adapter (not included).
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USB Cable Length: 1.5m
Sampling Rate: 44.1kHz/16bit
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency Response: 100Hz-16kHz
Sensitivity: -38dB
Output Impedance: 680 ohms
S/N Ratio: 56dB
Self-Noise: 38dB
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• TC-777 Microphone
• Tripod mount
• Pop filter
• Shock mount
Features:
Sound Quality: Provides clear audio with its cardioid condenser capsule.
Build Quality: Sleek design with a sturdy base.
Compatibility: USB connectivity ensures broad compatibility.
Ease of Use: Easy plug-and-play setup.
Price: Available for approximately $50, it’s a bit pricier but offers reliable performance.
Why We Recommend It: Known for its reputable brand and reliable performance, the Blue Snowball iCE is a popular choice among gamers and streamers.
Pros
- Affordable
- Popular & trusted
- Mac, Windows or Play Station compatible
Cons
- No mute button or volume control
- No height adjustment
- Plastic shell
- Not Xbox compatible (requires adapters)
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Easy Setup, High-Quality Sound: The Snowball iCE is designed for simplicity and performance. It’s one of the fastest and easiest ways to get high-quality sound for recording and streaming.
Crystal-Clear Audio: Powered by a custom cardioid condenser capsule, the Snowball iCE delivers crystal-clear audio quality that far surpasses built-in computer microphones. Whether you’re game streaming, making YouTube videos, or chatting on Discord, your voice will come through loud and clear.
Versatile Use: The Snowball iCE’s cardioid pickup pattern is perfect for capturing sound from directly in front of the microphone, making it ideal for game streaming, podcasting, and recording vocals and instruments.
Discord Certified: Certified by Discord for guaranteed performance, the Snowball iCE ensures that your voice will be heard clearly whether you’re chatting with friends or streaming live gameplay.
Adjustable Stand: The included adjustable desktop stand allows you to position the microphone where you need it. For more customized setups, you can also mount it on a desktop boom arm like the Compass.
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Sample Rate: 44.1 kHz
Bit Rate: 16-bit
Polar Patterns: Cardioid
Frequency Response: 40 Hz - 18 kHz
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• Snowball iCE USB Microphone
• Desktop Stand
• USB Cable
Features:
Sound Quality: Professional sound chipset with a wide frequency response for clear audio.
Build Quality: Includes a durable shock mount and pop filter.
Compatibility: USB connectivity for easy compatibility.
Ease of Use: Plug-and-play with no additional drivers needed.
Price: Priced around $50, offering a comprehensive kit for beginners and all the features required of streaming professionals.
Why We Recommend It: For the price, this is the most complete gaming microphone kit. The table-mount boom arm put it a step above the competition, allowing you to easily find the perfect mic position without having to adjust your gaming position or purchase additional accessories. Includes everything for the professional streamer at a budget price.
Pros
- Affordable
- Table-mount boom arm
- Shock mount
- Pop filter
- Windscreen
- Low noise
- Mac, Windows or Play Station compatible
Cons
- No mute button or volume control
- No headphone jack
- Not Xbox compatible (requires adapters)
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Professional Sound Chipset: The A04 microphone features a professional sound chipset that provides a high-resolution sampling rate of 192kHz/24bit. This ensures excellent sound reproduction, capturing every detail with clarity and precision. The smooth, flat frequency response of 30Hz-16kHz is ideal for accurately capturing your voice.
Easy Plug and Play: With a USB 2.0 data port, the A04 is easy to connect to your computer or PlayStation. No extra driver software or external sound card is needed. The double shielding USB cable reduces interference, ensuring a clean and clear sound.
16mm Electret Condenser Transducer & Magnet Ring: The 16mm electret condenser transducer delivers strong bass response and crystal-clear audio. The magnet ring on the USB mic cable enhances the microphone's anti-interference capabilities, providing a better overall experience.
Sturdy Boom Arm Set: The microphone comes with a pop filter, foam windscreen, and shock mount to ensure steady and clear recordings. The boom arm is fully adjustable, making it easy to position the microphone exactly where you need it.
Wide Compatibility: The A04 is compatible with all laptops, PCs, mobile phones (with an OTG adapter, not included), and PlayStation 4/5. It offers strong output with no distortion and low power consumption, making it a versatile choice for various devices and operating systems.
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Microphone Core: Dia.16mm Condenser
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency Response: 30Hz-16kHz
Sensitivity: -38dBA±3dBA (0dB=1V/Pa at 1kHz)
Maximum SPL: 120dB
S/N Ratio: 70dB
Self-Noise: 24dB
Sampling Rate: 192kHz/24bit
USB Cable: USB A to B cable
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• A04 Condenser Microphone
• Adjustable Scissor Arm Stand
• Metal Shock Mount
• Pop Filter
• Foam Mic Windscreen
• Table Mounting Clamp
• USB-B to USB-A Cable
Features:
Sound Quality: Noise-canceling technology ensures clear voice capture.
Build Quality: Sturdy gooseneck design for easy adjustment.
Compatibility: USB connectivity for simple setup.
Ease of Use: Plug-and-play with a convenient mute button.
Price: Available for around $30, it’s budget-friendly with good features.
Why We Recommend It: The JOUNIVO USB microphone combines affordability with convenience, featuring a flexible design and solid sound performance.
Pros
- Affordable
- Adjustable "gooseneck" arm
- Mute button
- Windscreen
- Low noise
- Mac, Windows or Play Station compatible
Cons
- No volume control
- No headphone jack
- Not Xbox compatible (requires adapters)
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360-Degree Adjustable Gooseneck: The JOUNIVO 601P features a flexible metal gooseneck that can be adjusted to any position, allowing for optimal sound pickup from any angle.
Mute Button & LED Indicator: The microphone includes a convenient mute button that allows you to quickly mute and unmute the mic as needed. An integrated LED indicator light shows the microphone's working status, ensuring you always know when you’re live.
Intelligent Noise Canceling Technology: Equipped with a premium omnidirectional condenser microphone and noise-canceling technology, the 601 effectively reduces background noise and echo, delivering clear and crisp audio.
Plug & Play: No drivers are needed for this USB microphone. Simply plug it into your computer, and it’s ready to use. It’s compatible with Windows (7, 8, and 10) and Mac OS, but not with Raspberry Pi, Linux, or Android.
Durable Build & Warranty: Constructed with metal and heavy-duty ABS stand, the JOUNIVO 601 is built to last. It comes with a 30-day full refund policy and a 24-month free warranty.
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Material: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Metal
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 76 dB
Self-Noise: 18dB
Frequency Range: 20Hz-20kHz
Compatibility: Windows 7, 8, 10, Mac OS, PlayStation
Not Compatible With: Raspberry Pi, Linux, Android
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• 601 USB Microphone
• Adjustable Metal Gooseneck
• Heavy-Duty ABS Stand
• USB Cable
Top 5 Best Cheap Headsets for Gaming
Finding a good-quality headset with an integrated microphone is crucial for an optimal gaming experience, especially when on a budget.
A good headset enhances communication, ensures clear audio, and provides comfort for long gaming sessions.
Here are the top five affordable headsets with integrated microphones for console gaming:
1. HyperX Cloud Stinger
Price: Around $50
Pros:
Comfort: Lightweight design with memory foam ear cushions.
Sound Quality: Delivers clear and crisp audio with 50mm directional drivers.
Microphone: Swivel-to-mute noise-canceling microphone.
Cons:
Build Quality: Mostly plastic, which may feel less durable.
The HyperX Cloud Stinger offers great value for its price, combining comfort and quality audio. The noise-canceling microphone is perfect for clear in-game communication.
2. Corsair HS35
Price: Around $40
Pros:
Sound Quality: Custom-tuned 50mm neodymium speaker drivers.
Comfort: Plush memory foam and adjustable ear cups.
Microphone: Detachable noise-canceling unidirectional mic.
Cons:
Design: Basic design, lacks premium aesthetics.
The Corsair HS35 is a solid choice for budget-conscious gamers, offering a comfortable fit and decent sound quality. The detachable microphone is a plus for those who prefer flexibility.
Price: Around $40
Pros:
Sound Quality: High-quality 40mm speakers for clear audio.
Compatibility: Works across all major gaming platforms.
Microphone: Flip-up omnidirectional microphone.
Cons:
Bass: Lacks deep bass response.
The Turtle Beach Recon 70 is a versatile headset with clear sound and a convenient flip-up mic. It’s a great entry-level option for gamers looking for reliable performance.
Price: Around $50
Pros:
Weight: Extremely lightweight at just 250g.
Sound Quality: 7.1 surround sound for immersive gaming.
Microphone: Bendable cardioid microphone.
Cons:
Durability: Lightweight build may feel fragile.
Razer Kraken X offers excellent sound quality and an immersive experience with its 7.1 surround sound. Its lightweight design ensures comfort during extended gaming sessions.
Price: Around $50
Pros:
Sound Quality: Signature Arctis soundscape emphasizes subtle, yet critical sounds.
Microphone: Detachable ClearCast noise-canceling microphone.
Build: Durable steel-reinforced headband.
Cons:
Fit: Some users may find the fit tight.
The SteelSeries Arctis 1 provides premium features at an affordable price. The ClearCast microphone is one of the best in its class, ensuring your voice is heard clearly during gameplay.
Conclusion
The microphones listed above provide excellent performance without requiring a significant investment, making them perfect for gamers looking to enhance their sound quality on a budget.
Whether you're a casual gamer or starting your journey into streaming, these budget-friendly options ensure you're heard loud and clear.
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