Audio-Technica AT2020USB+
- Cardioid condenser
- Flat 20Hz-20kHz frequency response
FIFINE
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Yes, for the right buyer. The FIFINE K669B USB Condenser Microphone ranks #4 in our Best Budget USB Microphones Under $100 list. Its biggest strength: very low price. The main caveat: picks up room noise.
A very affordable metal USB condenser mic with a volume knob, popular for calls and first podcasts.
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| List | Rank |
|---|---|
| Best Budget USB Microphones Under $100 | #4 / 5 |
Products ranked near it in our research, each better for a slightly different buyer.
Yes, for the right buyer. The FIFINE K669B USB Condenser Microphone ranks #4 in our Best Budget USB Microphones Under $100 list. Its biggest strength: very low price. The main caveat: picks up room noise.
Based on our research it suits budgets under $100. It's ranked #4 of 5 in our Best Budget USB Microphones Under $100 list.
The main trade-offs owners and reviewers point to: picks up room noise; no headphone jack; short included stand.
Worth comparing: Audio-Technica AT2020USB+, Rode NT-USB Mini and Samson Q2U. Each ranks near it in our research for a slightly different buyer.
It's sold on Amazon. Prices and stock change often, so check the current listing before you buy, our link takes you straight to it.
No, USB microphones contain their own built-in audio interface (the analog-to-digital converter) and connect directly to a computer via USB. This is what makes them self-contained podcast microphones without additional hardware. XLR microphones (the other standard for podcast microphones) require a separate audio interface or mixer to connect to a computer. USB is the simpler setup for solo or two-person podcasts; XLR provides more control and upgrade flexibility for professional multi-person productions.
Polar pattern (cardioid) is the most important specification for podcast recording in an untreated room. A cardioid polar pattern rejects sound from behind and the sides of the microphone, capturing only the voice directly in front. This reduces room echo, background noise, and keyboard clicks that are captured by omnidirectional microphones. All recommended podcast microphones use a cardioid or selectable cardioid polar pattern. Self-noise (the electrical noise floor of the microphone) matters for quiet environments, below 20dB self-noise is the threshold for professional recording.