USB microphones
Plug-in microphones for calls, podcasts and streaming, judged on voice quality and ease of use.
Of the 3 usb microphones we score so far, the highest-rated by professional reviewers is the Elgato Wave:3: critic score 88 out of 100 from 11 reviews, 10 of them positive. Most praised: sound quality and ease of use. Most common complaint: controls and app.
Elgato Wave:3
11 professional reviewers tested the Elgato Wave:3, and 10 recommend it. Most praised: sound quality and ease of use. Most common complaint: controls and app.
The catch: Single polar pattern, and the touch mute is easy to trigger.
8 of these 11 outlets print no score. We estimated theirs from the review text and corrected for the known tendency of estimates to run high.
We earn a commission if you buy through this link. It never changes a score.
Not the Elgato Wave:3? Pick by situation
How do they compare?
| Product | Score | Reviews | Agreement | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elgato Wave:3 | 88 | 11 | Medium | Best for streamers |
| Shure MV7+ | 85 | 4 (early) | Medium | Best overall |
| Shure MV6 | 85 | 6 | High | Best for beginners |
Not scored yet
We publish a score only once at least 4 professional reviews of the exact model exist.
- Rode NT-USB+ · 2 of 4 reviews needed
- HyperX QuadCast 2 · 1 of 4 reviews needed
- Blue Yeti · 2 of 4 reviews needed
Common questions
Which USB microphone do critics rate highest?
Of the 3 we score, the Elgato Wave:3, with a critic score of 88 from 11 professional reviews. Most praised: sound quality and ease of use. Most common complaint: controls and app.
Elgato Wave:3 vs Shure MV7+: which is better?
Critics score the Elgato Wave:3 88 and the Shure MV7+ 85. We list the Shure MV7+ under “Best overall”. Its main drawback: costs more than other USB mics, and the app is basic.