Last updated on August 4th, 2022 at 10:14 am
Finding the best microphone under 100 must suit your job; whether you are using it for a live event or recording at your studio. Applications of the right mic along with the specifications that produce the right sound despite the price is must be everyone’s target. Microphones are used for plenty of jobs and there is a huge selection of mics available, which makes it necessary to pick the right one.
For your feasibility, we have compiled a list of the best microphone under 100. To choose the best mic under $100 for streaming, there are certain factors that you need to consider. These factors include polar pattern, frequency response, responsive curves, sensitivity, sound pressure level, proximity effect, and budget.
Our Recommendation;
Best Microphone Under 100 | BUYING GUIDE
The specifications of the microphone vary as per the application. Looking carefully into what is needed and then matching the specs with the different types makes it easier to find the best microphone for the given job.
Here are some of the important factors to consider before stumbling upon one, which will help you narrow down your search for the best microphone under 100 as per the microphone types.
Set Your Budget
The microphone budget is the biggest factor when it comes to buying an affordable mic that offers the best sound and durability. Price significantly determines the quality of the microphone.
Here are some of the most common types of mics with a low-end and high-end price point to get an idea of how much a particular mic can cost you.
Microphone Type | Low-end Price Point | High-end Price Point |
| Moving-coil dynamic microphones | $10 | $899 |
| Passive ribbon dynamic microphone | $65 | $4,999 |
| Active ribbon dynamic microphones | $121 | $5,799 |
| Small-diaphragm condenser microphones | $27 | $6,200 |
| Large-diaphragm condenser microphones | $11 | $9,990 |
| Electret condenser microphones | $0.24 | $2,340 |
| Tube condenser microphone | $114 | $10,799 |
| Shotgun microphones | $15 | $1,490 |
| USB microphones | $4 | $1,490 |
| Measurement microphones | $29 | $1,399 |
These values depict an approximate price range.
Analyze Your Job
How and where you plan to use your mic plays an important role in picking the right mic that does the job perfectly fine.
Take advantage of the best affordable microphone that perfectly fits all your needs.
Ask yourself if;
- You are going to use it on stage for vocals?
- Will you be using it to mic an instrument?
- Are you intending to get a mic for the home studio?
- Is your target getting a mic that performs well in either situation?
There are two things that need to be considered the most while choosing the mic;
- The environment
- The gear
For instance, getting a Neumann studio mic for basic demo recordings at home is not worth the price and may not fit your job. For such a job, an affordable microphone will be a better choice.
One Mic For All
If you are looking for a mic that covers most of the jobs, large-diaphragm condensers, are the way to go. Large condenser microphones offer selectable polar patterns that add versatility to the mic for different recording tasks.
- Beginner Budget: CAD m179
- Intermediate Budget: Audio Technica AT4050
- Pro Budget: AKG C414
Prioritize Your Singing Style
A wide range of mics widens the scope for various vocal styles as not every mic works well for metal to jazz, rock, or classical.
Different singing styles require different characteristics for a mic.
- Female vocals: A mic that offers smooth top end and does not get sibilant.
- Male vocals: A mic capable of capturing warm low mids clearly.
- Aggressive vocals: High SPL and intense transients mic.
- Rapping: A mic that is not too sensitive to loud plosives of the syllables.
To know more about microphone types and the characters, have a look at a thorough guide that will help you choose better.
Do Not Overlook Your Environment
As much as any other characteristic of a mic affects the sound, the environment plays an important role in determining the quality of the sound.
Two major environmental categories are;
Untreated Room
If you are planning to record in an untreated room, that is not ideal for recording or has outside noise coming in, the best microphone to go for is the one that minimized the effects of outside noises.
Treated Room
If you happen to record in a room that naturally sounds good or a studio that is treated for professional recordings, diaphragm condensers or ribbon mics are the way to go. Whereas, treated rooms can record clear and high-end sound with almosts every kind of mic.
A Buying Guide To The Best Microphone Under 100
Choosing the best vocal mic for 100, your main concern must be the features and specifications that best suit your needs. These factors include the following;
- Polar Pattern
- Frequency response
- Responsive curves
- Sensitivity or SPL
- Diaphragm
- Proximity effect
So, let us move towards the buying guide to the best microphone under 100!
Polar Pattern / Directionality
The polar pattern of a microphone refers to the mic’s field of sensitivity. In simpler words, the directions from which a mic accepts or rejects incoming sounds.
Depending on the polar patterns, there are a few types of microphones that offer different sensitivity towards various directions.
MULTI-PATTERN MICROPHONES
Multipattern microphones polar patterns can be changed from omnidirectional to cardioid polar patterns. There are two ways to switch polar patterns that are; by a switch or interchangeable capsules. Multi patterns mics are more versatile when it comes to using in various settings.
Frequency Response Of Microphones
As per the name, frequency response microphones respond to a wide range of frequencies, from lowest to highest. It is measured in hertz. Different frequencies are suitable for a different kind of recording, such as;
Vocals: 80 Hz to 15 kHz.
Snare and toms: starts around 50 Hz.
Bass drum: low end of 40 Hz or even lower.
Responsive Curves
To add character to the microphone’s recording or to the vocals, a response curve is seen as it measures the responsiveness of the mic of various levels, starting from zero to the lower and dropping off to zero at the high end.
The in-between peaks and dips at various places define a certain character to the mic suitable for various applications.
For instance, a vocal mic must show a spike in the upper mid-range that results in smoother vocals.
Sensitivity or SPL
Sensitivity: quietest possible sound picking quality of a mic.
Sensitivity refers to how low sound can a microphone detect. Mics’ capability to detect the quietest possible sound is known as the sensitivity of the mic. The lower the number, the more sensitive the mic would be.
SPL: maximum sound picking quality of the mic
SPL refers to “sound pressure level”. It is expressed in dBs, measuring the maximum volume a mic can handling without distorting the sound. SPL is an opposite of sensitivty. A mic with high SPL is considered to be a good quality mic.
Average SPL: 100 dBs
High SPL: 130 dBs
Diaphragm
It is a significant element of microphone capsule that produces vibration in response of the sound waves. The size of diaphragm works affects the sound pressure level of a microphone. Small sized diaphragms are responsible for dealing with higher SPL and offers enhanced frequency response.
On the other hand, microphones with large diaphragms offer deep sound with lower frequency response. But these microphones are considered to be better when it comes to sound production.
Proximity Effect
More of a characteristic of a mic, the proximity effect is described as the sound becomes more pronounced when the source comes closer to the mic. This characteristic is helpful in creating different sounds with the mic. Professionals mostly go for a higher proximity effect to add versatility to the mic and the sound.
Condenser mics have a higher proximity effect in comparison to dynamic mics.
Considering personal preference along with specifications of a mic helps you in making the right choice as per the needs and requirements when it comes to purchasing the best vocal mic under 100. As budget here is the preference whether you are going to purchase the best USB microphone for rapping or the best mics to record vocals in variable environments.
Top Best Microphone Under 100
To buy the best microphone under 100, make sure Y
1. MXL 770 – Best Microphone Under 100
Features
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
- Colour: Black
- Item Weight: 1 Pound
- Power Source: AC
- Number of Batteries: 1 C battery required.
Specifications
- Diaphragm: 6-micron gold-sputtered
- Capsule Size: 22mm/.87 in.
- Frequency Range: 30Hz-20kHz
- Sensitivity: 15mV/Pa
- Equivalent Noise: 20dB (A weighted IEC 268-4)
Pros
- Multipurpose microphone
- Small diaphragm
- Warm sound with additional clarity at the top end
- Best for vocals, acoustic guitars, pianos, strings, and voice-work.
Cons
- No Cons
With such a significant number of various brands contending in a restricted market, everybody is attempting to convey something one-of-a-kind gadget.
This best vocal mic is doing an incredible inverse and it is the motivation behind why they are picking up in prevalence. This brand packs model, for example, MXL 770 best budget microphone, which is about as ordinary as they regularly get. Nonetheless, this mic works.
Some of the time solid execution is superior to showy new highlights. Discussing which, MXL 770 is nothing to kid about. This best mic under 100 accompanies a high pass channel just as a – 10dB cushion.
2. MXL V67G – Best Mic Under 100 For Streaming
Features
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
- Colour: Green
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Audio Sensitivity: 130 dB
- Material: Gold/Green Metal Finish
Specifications
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 74 dB
- Diaphragm: 6-micron gold-sputtered
- Capsule Size: 32mm/1.26in.
- Frequency Response: 30Hz – 20kHz
- Impedance: 200 ohms
- S/N Ratio: 74 dB (Ref. 1 PA A-weighted)
- Equivalent Noise: 20 dB (A-weighted IEC 268-4)
- Max SPL for .5% THD: 130 dB
Pros
- A solid-state mic
- Rich midrange
- Crystal clear sound
- Excellent for R&B, pop, rock, and country
Cons
- It doesn’t accompany any adornments besides the case.
With regards to crude value for the money esteem, there are just a bunch of alternatives out there. As for reasons unknown, MXL makes a decent number of them.
Models like the MXL V67G, the best microphone under 100 truly make it simple to fabricate an OK home chronicle studio. The best microphone under 100 has it essentially all. From vintage conspicuous looks to execution.
3. Audio-Technica AT2020 – Best Podcast Microphone Under 100
Features
- Material Type: Metal
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
- Colour: Black
- Connector Type: XLR Connector
- Item Weight: 0.6 Kilograms
- Integral 3 pin XLRM type
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
Specifications
- Audio Sensitivity: 37 dB
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 74 dB
- Noise level: 20 dB SPL
- Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz
- Open Circuit Sensitivity: –37 dB
- Impedance: 100 ohms
- Maximum Input Sound Level: 144 dB SPL
- Dynamic Range: 24 dB SPL
Pros
- Wide dynamic range
- Sound source location eliminate surrounding noise
- Threaded stand mount offers secure and easy placement
- Low-mass diaphragm provides a superior transient response
- Comes with stand mount, threaded adapter, and protective pouch
Cons
- Accompanies no adornments, no mounts, or links.
Sound Technica is one of those brands that have found some kind of harmony among the cost and execution of their items. This is one of the best microphones for voice over and podcast.
Sound Technica AT2020 best affordable microphone is that racehorse with regards to their condenser amplifiers. There’s not another approach to portraying this mic other than great.
You are getting an ideal combo of usefulness, incredible structure, appropriate equipment, and great execution.
While it may not be something numerous experts would use for top-of-line ventures, the best microphone under 100 have ended up in various lower grade and even semi-star recording studios all around the globe.
On the off chance that you are searching for an inside and out great entertainer, look no further.
4. Samson C01 – Best Recording Microphone Under 100
Features
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional / Cardioid
- Colour: Silver
- Connector Type: XLR Connector
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Item Weight: 2.5 Pounds
Specifications
- Diaphragm: 19mm
- Frequency response: 40 Hz – 18 kHz
- Max SPL: 136 dB
- Output Impedance: 200 ohm
- Signal to noise ratio: 71 dB
- Self-noise: 23 dB
Pros
- Excellent off-axis rejection
- Rugged mic design with a heavy-gauge mesh grille
- Swivel stand mount included
- LED indicator phantom power
Cons
- No low cut filter
- No pad included
Samson is one of those brands that are about a simple exhibition at the cost of Samson C01. There is nothing rapid about this amplifier.
This best mic for recording is astonishingly nonexclusive as far as to plan. This best budget condenser mic packs a 19mm diaphragm, which gives it a lot of capacity to get further subtleties of your voice. The mouthpiece of these best condensor microphones works very well with most amps and isn’t excessively critical or fastidious.
The main drawback is the total absence of constriction or onboard sound enhancement. Truth be told, we’re prepared to let that fly thinking about the cost.
5. Blue Snowball – Best USB Microphone Under 100
Features
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
- Frequency Range: 40 – 18 kHz
- Colour: Black
- Connector Type: USB
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Hardware Platform: PC
- Item Weight: 0.46 Kilograms
- Power Source: Corded Electric
Specifications
- Frequency Response: 40 –18 kHz
- Sample/word Rate: 44.1 kHz/16 bit
- USB Type: 2.0 device
- Bit Depth/Sample Rate: 16-bit/44kHz
Pros
- The minimized structure makes it appropriate for use in a hurry.
- Extraordinary form quality that is standard for Yeti condenser mics.
- Extraordinary nature of sound and a quite not too bad polar example.
Cons
- Custom condenser capsule offers crystal clear audio
- Add crystal clear audio to recordings
- Easy plug and play
- No gain control
- No mute option
In case you’re uncertain about whether or not condensers are something you need to get into, there are arrangements, for example, Blue Snowball iCE which might be an appropriate trade-off and is considered as the best microphone for recording.
This best wireless microphone under 100 is a condenser receiver yet it doesn’t require apparition capacity to work. Rather than requiring an XLR link, you can simply plug it into your PC utilizing a USB link.
With regards to execution, this best condenser mic under 100 packs a serious pleasant punch. You’re taking a gander at a decent account design followed by an all-around custom-fitted affectability profile.
6. Shure MV5 – Best Condenser Mic Under $100
Features
- Microphone Type: Electret Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Colour: Black with Red Foam
- Connector: USB Micro-B, 1/8″ (headphones)
- Software: ShurePlus MOTIV app
- Weight: 0.35 lbs. (with stand)
Specifications
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
- A/D Resolution: 24-bit/48kHz
- Max SPL: 130dB SPL
- Sensitivity: -40dBFS/Pa
- Power Source: USB bus-powered
Pros
- Custom-tuned microphone capsule provides superior audio
- Comes with stand, USB Cable, Lightning Cable
- Angle-adjustable desktop stand
Cons
- It is somewhat clumsy without a stand.
Shure, being one of the experts in the business, is loaded with shocks even in the reasonable fragment of the market.
Shure MV5, the good cheap microphone, offers something very invigorating which might be appropriate for new clients and the individuals who simply need to record music. As you can most likely advise, it is a USB mic that includes a vintage plan and considerably more.
Notwithstanding, it genuinely exceeds expectations in highlights. Rather than disturbing you with polar examples, constriction, and different things, Shure, the best budget mic, has worked in a few unmistakable chronicle profiles.
Thusly you can choose a Vocals profile in case you’re recording voice or the Instrument profile for acoustic instruments, as it is one of the best cheap microphones for YouTube.
7. Razer Seiren X – Best Mic For ASMR
Features
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
- Colour: Classic Black
- Connector Type: USB
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Material: Aluminum
- Hardware Platform: Universal
- Item Weight: 0.8 Pounds
- Power Source: USB.\AC
Specifications
- Microphone Type: Condenser
- Sample Rate: Min 44.1 kHz / Max 48 kHz
- Bit Rate: 16 bit
- Capsules: Ø25 mm condenser capsules
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
- Sensitivity: 17.8 mV
- Max SPL: 110 dB
- Weight: 0.84 lbs
- Impedance: ≥ 16 Ω
- Power Output: 125 mW
- Signal to noise ratio: 85 dB
Pros
- Ultra-Precise Pickup Pattern
- Shock Resistant
- Compact Form Factor
- Built-in shock mount
- Background noise reduction
- Zero-latency monitoring
Cons
- The entire gaming part of the mic is fairly constrained
- Some users find sound really basic
Razer Seiren X, the best inexpensive condenser mic, is an exceptionally intriguing condenser, shrouded under the pretense of offering a superior gaming experience to its clients. This is for sure the best mic for asmr to record great quality sound.
This best USB condenser mic under 100 packs some intriguing arrangements. First of all, we have worked in stun mount which works genuinely well. At that point, there is the super-cardioid polar example which implies more accuracy and increasingly directional information. If you are an ASMRtist, know that this is one of the best asmr microphones to buy!
Conclusion
With everything taken into account, looking for the best budget condenser mic for vocals is generally down to your inclinations and what you require in a mic. Keeping budget priority, the best microphone under 100 must not lack essential features that directly affect the quality of the sound along with durability.
In our recommendation, the best microphone under 100 is MXL 770. We chose this best budget microphone for streaming because of its unidirectional pattern, decent-sized diaphragm, reasonable price, AC power source, and good frequency range.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a good cheap microphone?
Shure MV5 is the best microphone under 100 when we speak of quality, durability, and essential features. It comes with a custom-tuned microphone capsule that provides superior audio quality. Besides the quality, it comes with a stand, USB, and lightning cable.
2. What’s the best cheap microphone for recording?
Samson C01 is considered to be the best dynamic microphone under 100. It will give you results like any other good quality microphone provides
3. What is the best condenser microphone?
Condenser microphones are known for their excellent sound quality. They are more responsive than dynamic mics and have a wider frequency.
Some of the best condenser mics are mentioned below as per the price range:
- Under $100: MXL V67G, Samson C01
- Under $500: Blackout Spark SL (cardioid), Rode NT1 (cardioid), Rode NT2-A (multi-pattern) or AKG C214 (cardioid)
- Under $1,000: AKG C414 XLII (multi-pattern)
- Over $1,000: Neumann TLM 170 R (multi-pattern)
4. Which microphone should I buy?
It all depends on what you require from a microphone, you can choose any of the above microphones that are suitable for your needs and it will be worth the money. MXL 770 is the one that is recommended because of its durability at a low price.
5. How do I choose a microphone for recording?
While making a purchase for a microphone, consider essential features like impedance, frequency response, type of mic, diaphragm, and capsule type along with brand, model, and price.
6. Which microphone should I buy?
If you do not have a specific recording style or treated environment for recording, go for a mic that covers most of the jobs. Large-diaphragm condenser microphones offer a variable adjustable range of polar patterns that allow users to record a different kind of sound in a different recording environment.
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