Best Cheap XLR and USB Condenser Microphones Under $100

The Best Cheap Condenser Microphones for Home Studio Under $100, XLR and USB Options for Music, Podcasts, Streaming and More.

Guide to Cheap Condenser Microphones

With the evolution of technology and the acceleration in behavioral changes triggered after the COVID pandemic, more and more musicians have their Home Studio. Either to record demos or models or simply to record your discs.

Also as a result of the strict quarantines that began in 2020, Streaming performances have become very popular. Favorite platforms for this are YouTube and Twitch. Thus, musicians like Chris Martin of Coldplay and Matt Heafy of the metal band Trivium have made presentations, lessons, Q&A -questions and answers- with their fans live.

XLR vs. USB Condenser Microphones

In recent years, USB microphones have become very popular. This allows young musicians to not use an audio interface and keep their musical equipment small. Additionally, we have “old” XLR technology microphones, which until a few years ago were limited to quality microphones at medium and high prices. These days, there are more and more cheaply priced XLR microphone options for tight budgets. Thus, standard XLR condenser microphones offer better options and better quality than USB mics.

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Inexpensive Condenser Microphone Selection Methodology

At GEARanking we review popular and highly rated cheap condenser microphones in the sub $100 price range. Also, we make sure they are available for purchase globally, that is USA, Europe, Japan, Korea and the rest.

The best cheap condenser microphones

• MXL 990 – XLR Condenser Microphone
• Neat Microphones Worker Bee XLR Microphone
• MXL 770 – Cardioid XLR Condenser Microphone
• Shure PGA181 – XLR Condenser Microphone
• Audio-Technica AT2020 – XLR Microphone
• MXL V67G – XLR Condenser Microphone
• Blue Ember – XLR Condenser Microphone
• Mackie EM-91CU – USB Condenser Microphone
• Samson C01U Pro – USB Condenser Microphone
• Blue Snowball iCE – USB Condenser Microphone
• Rode NT-USB Mini – USB Condenser Microphone
• Blue Yeti Nano – USB Condenser Microphone

Best XLR Condenser Microphones Under $100

• MXL 990 cardioid condenser microphone
• Neat Microphones Worker Bee
• MXL 770 cardioid condenser microphone
• Shure PGA181
• Audio Technica AT2020
• MXL V67G Condenser Microphone
• Blue Ember

These are condenser microphones that use a traditional XLR connection. Because condenser microphones use internal circuitry for the diaphragm to work and send signals, they require phantom power to work. Most modern preamps, mixing consoles, and USB adapters provide phantom power.

MXL 990 cardioid condenser microphone

Street Price: $79/109

The MXL 990 is one of the most popular cheap condenser microphones. It’s a studio quality single condenser mic at a very affordable price. We consider it without a doubt as one of the best options. While it’s common to see it just over $100, it can also be found on sale for $80. In fact, at the time of writing this review, Sweetwater is offering it for $79.96.

The MXL 990 condenser microphone has a 3/4″ gold-plated diaphragm and a frequency response range of 30Hz-20kHz, designed to retain high and low frequencies and keep the overall sound well balanced and transparent. Thus, the MXL works well with sound sources in home studio environments, including acoustic instruments and vocals. The XXL 990 Condenser Microphone features a vintage aesthetic.

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MXL 990 Microphone Features and Specifications

• Frequency Response: 30Hz – 20kHz
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Max SPL: 130dB
• Power Requirements: Phantom Power 48V (+/- 4V)
• Applications: Vocal and acoustic instrument recording and voice-overs / podcasts

Pros of the MXL 990

The MXL 990 is clear sounding and easy to use, ideal for your home studio. Also the microphone stands out for its solid build quality and durability. The MXL 990 is one of the most versatile cardioid-pattern condenser microphones in this price range, perfect for beginning as well as expert musicians or producers.

Cons of the MXL 990

As expected, some have reported that it can’t handle high SPL sources given its 130 Max SPL spec, but it will work just fine under normal studio conditions. There were also some who noted that the microphone tends to pick up ambient sounds, especially when not positioned correctly.

Overview of the MXL 990

The MXL 990 strikes the right balance between affordability, quality, and adaptability. All this and more make this microphone one of the best options for beginners or musicians on a budget.

Manufacturer Site: MXL

Neat Microphones Worker Bee

Street Price: $89

Neat microphones are relatively new to the pro audio scene. Neat Microphones is a manufacturer founded by former founders and senior members of Blue Microphones, along with other industry veterans and new talent.

The Worker Bee is a mid-diaphragm cardioid pattern condenser microphone designed for use with high SPL sound sources. It features discrete Class A circuitry, an internal buffer, plus an additional external “beekeeper” buffer, and keeps ambient noise at bay.

Neat Worker Bee Features and Specs

• Frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Max SPL: 145dB
• Power Requirements: Phantom Power 48V (+/- 4V)
• Ideal for: vocal recording, instruments, orchestral / wind instrument

Pros of the Neat Microphones Worker Bee

The Worker Bee excels as a warm sounding mic and also handles high SPL without distortion. Also, it is ideal for sweetening female voices, for wind instruments and string sections. Plus, it’s perfect for fleshing out drum overheads and room mics as a stereo pair.

Cons of the Neat Microphones Worker Bee

The external shock absorber is proprietary and some felt that some of their units did not feel secure enough to hold the mic in place.

Overview of the Neat Microphones Worker Bee

If you’re looking for a great microphone that does it all with a tonality that sweetens generally harsh sound sources and adds body to drums, Neat Microphones Worker Bee is one of the best options.

Manufacturer Site: Neat Microphones

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MXL 770 cardioid condenser microphone

Street Price: $100

The MXL 770 is a simple, studio-quality microphone at a very affordable price. It features a 6-micron, 20mm gold-sputtered diaphragm, and has a frequency response of 30Hz-20kHz. It has a nice balanced sound that works great for just about anything, be it vocals or instruments, as long as the SPL doesn’t go above 137dB.

MXL 770 Microphone Features and Specifications

• Frequency Response: 30Hz – 20kHz
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Max SPL: 137dB
• Power requirements: 48V phantom power (+/- 4V)
• Ideal for: recording, voiceovers, podcasts.

Pros of the MXL 770

While some reviewers prefer the more expensive MXL 990, the MXL 770 is a great alternative. Many prefer the MXL 770 for its higher maximum SPL 137 dB vs 130 dB of the 990. Therefore, you can give it a try. Like the MXL 990, the 770 shows excellent value for money and great versatility of use. Thus, the MXL works well enough to work with common instruments and sound sources in home recording situations.

Cons of the MXL 770

There were concerns about long-term durability; recommend careful handling when moving or transporting the microphone.

Overview of the MXL 770

The market continues to hail the MXL 770 as one of the best budget condenser microphones, so we highly recommend it, especially for home studio use.

Manufacturer Site: MXL

Shure PGA181

Street Price: $94

The Shure PGA181 is a side-address cardioid condenser microphone designed with versatility in mind. Its design allows the PGA181 to even be used hanging in front of a guitar cabinet. It has a maximum SPL of 138dB which allows it to be used on even the loudest sound sources.

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Shure PGA 181 Features and Specifications

• Frequency response: 50Hz-20kHz
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Max SPL: 138dB
• Power Requirements: Phantom Power 48V (+/- 4V)
• Ideal for: vocals, instruments, percussion, amplifiers.

Pros of the Shure PGA181

The biggest advantage of the Shure PGA 181 is that its frequency response is smooth, clear, and versatile enough to work from vocals to orchestral percussion. In addition, it does not usually suffer from noise pick-up from the environment.

Cons of the Shure PGA181

On the flip side of its versatility, it is a microphone that does not stand out in anything in particular. It’s also a bit heavier than others, but nothing a good mic stand can’t handle.

Overview of the Shure PGA181

The PGA181 is a versatile microphone that gets the job done and is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a first microphone to jump-start your music production projects.

Manufacturer Site: Shure

Audio Technica AT2020

Street Price: $99

The AT2020 is Audio-Technica’s offering in the lower price segment at $99. Despite this, it still offers much of Audio-Technica’s trademark sound, build quality, and reliability. As the brand says: “Often imitated, never duplicated.”

Features and specifications of the Audio-Technica AT2020

• Frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Max SPL: 144dB
• Power Requirements: Phantom Power 48V (+/- 4V)
• Ideal for: speech/vocal recording, instruments, podcast/streaming

Pros of the Audio Technica AT2020

Many praise the AT2020 for its smooth response and excellent transient handling. Some reviews mentioned that it’s not only a great entry point into the Audio-Technica “sound”, but it’s also a great mic for price-performance.

Cons of the Audio Technica AT2020

There are not many things to criticize about this microphone. The only thing we can tell you is that there are many fake microphones. To avoid disappointment, order only from official sellers and distributors.

Overview of the Audio Technica AT2020

The AT2020 is an excellent microphone capable of handling many scenarios, from vocals to percussion to broadcast. Just make sure you get a microphone from a major retailer to ensure you get the real thing.

Manufacturer Site: Audio-Technica

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MXL V67G Condenser Microphone

Street Price: $100

The MXL V67G is a deceptively affordable vintage-style microphone that aims to bring a tube-like warmth to your recordings. Thanks to its tuning, the voices acquire more body and richness. The microphone itself has a wide frequency range that extends to 30 Hz in the low frequencies.

All wiring is done by class-leading cable manufacturer Mogami to couple a Class A FET design with a transformer-coupled output stage similar to vintage condenser microphones.

Features and specifications of the MXL V67G

• Frequency Response: 30Hz – 20kHz
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Max SPL: 130dB
• Power Requirements: Phantom Power 48V (+/- 4V)
• Ideal for: voiceovers, vocal recording, and drum and room overheads.

Pros of the MXL V67G

This Condenser Microphone is ideal for musicians looking for vintage tones. The response and character of the MXL V67G similar to the microphones of yesteryear is its great virtue. This microphone stands out for the warmth and response in the form of the microphone tube, in addition to its price.

Cons of the MXL V67G

Your diaphragm is sensitive to moisture and condensation from your breaths. Therefore, the use of a suitable pop filter is recommended.

Overview of the MXL V67G

The MXL V67G is the ideal cheap microphone for those looking for vintage tube audio. This microphone will give depth to the low frequencies. The MXL V67G is ideal for recording vocals and ambience for both the recording or rehearsal room as well as for acoustic drums.

Manufacturer Site: MXL

Blue Ember

Street Price: $100

The Blue Ember features a compact form factor with a tight cardioid polar pattern. Mainly designed for streaming, but also suitable for voices and dubbing. The Ember has a custom side-address diaphragm and slightly trimmed midrange for a more “open” sound that’s ready for podcasting.

Features and specifications of the Blue Ember

• Frequency response: 38Hz-20kHz
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Maximum SPL: 132dB SPL
• Power Requirements: Phantom Power 48V (+/- 4V)
• Ideal for: speech/vocal recording, podcast/streaming

Pros of the Blue Ember

The Blue Ember stands out for its clarity for vocals. Since it’s designed as a broadcast microphone, vocals sound present without being sibilant. Others liked the slim form factor as it doesn’t get in the way of their vision, either while streaming or reading scripts and lyrics in front of them.

Cons of the Blue Ember

It is recommended to use it with the Blue Ember pop filter or screen, as plosives tend to be emphasized if not used.

Overview of the Blue Ember

For broadcasting, voice recordings, singing, and other general recording tasks, the Blue Ember is a clear-sounding, compact microphone that does the job well.

Manufacturer Site: Blue

Best USB Condenser Microphones Under $100

• Mackie EM-91CU
• Samson C01U Pro
• Blue Snowball iCE – USB Microphone
• Rode NT-USB Mini
• Blue Yeti Nano – USB Microphone

These are condenser microphones that feature USB connectivity, allowing them to draw power from your computer and stream captured audio for direct recording. These are for direct to computer recording and are ideal for musicians looking to put together a basic home studio without the need for a separate audio interface. USB Condenser Microphones are designed to operate with lower power compared to regular or XLR condenser microphones. This is usually reflected in a difference in their frequency range and dynamic range. The convenience of these microphones has made them a great value for content creation and recording.

Mackie EM-91CU

Street Price: $50

The Mackie EM-91CU is one of the brand’s latest releases. The Mackie EM-91CU USB version of the company’s Element series EM-91C condenser microphone. The Element Series was designed with sound quality, long-term durability, serviceability, and affordability in mind. Designed as a microphone to do it all, the EM91CU strikes a balance between warmth and brightness. Thus, this Condenser microphone can be used for anything: vocals, acoustic guitar and even amplified electric guitar. Additionally, this mic features onboard Onyx preamp circuitry for low noise and high dynamic range.

Mackie EM91CU Features and Specifications

• Frequency response: 20Hz-17kHz
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Maximum SPL: 132dB SPL
• Power requirements: 5V USB power
• Device / Operating System Compatibility: Class – USB compliant, Windows 7 SP1 or later, Mac OS X 10.11 or later or later with USB 2.0
• Sampling frequency: 48kHz
• Bit depth: 16 bits
• Ideal for: home recording, vocals, acoustic guitar, light percussion, streaming, podcasting

Pros of the Mackie EM-91CU

Users of this USB Condenser Microphone found the EM-91CU to excel with spoken word, voiceover, podcasts, and streaming. Enhances most voice types with a subtle low-frequency harmonic boost that adds body to female voices and authority to deeper baritone voices. In addition, it includes Shockmount and USB cable.

Cons of the Mackie EM-91CU

While sibilance is noted to be overpowered by the mic, others found that some vocals sounded too muddy and needed low cuts to sound good in the mix.

Overview of the Mackie EM-91CU

The Mackie EM-91CU is a great value microphone for its durability and rich sound. Get it if you want a little more warmth in your voice and have a tendency to emphasize sibilant “s” and “f” sounds.

Manufacturer Site: Mackie

Samson C01U Pro

Street Price: $90

The Samson C01U Pro comes with a large internal shock diaphragm (19mm) and a hypercardioid polar pattern that allows for good sonic detail capture and good background noise rejection. It also comes with a built-in headphone amplifier for latency-free real-time monitoring.

It is housed in a solid die-cast form factor with a heavy gauge mesh grille.

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Samson C01U Features and Specifications

• Frequency response: 20Hz-18kHz
• Polar Pattern: Supercardiod
• Max SPL: 130dB
• Phantom Power: 5v USB
• Device / OS Compatibility: Windows XP / Vista / Win 7 / Win 8 / Win10, Mac OS X 10.4.9 or higher, iPad
• Sampling frequency: 44.1 / 48kHz
• Bit depth: 16 bits
• Ideal for: Home Recording Studios, Mobile/Field Recording, Voiceover, Podcasts, Streaming, and Content Creation.

Pros of the Samson C01U Pro

The Samson C01U Pro is a super easy to use and great sounding condenser microphone. Simplifies the recording process. Simply load up your DAW, plug it in, and record. It also works well in various musical styles such as rap, rock, and even metal-style screaming, and has also worked well when recording acoustic instruments. It has included a tripod type support and USB cable.

Cons of the Samson C01U Pro

There is not much to highlight in this regard. Latency is well managed thanks to its built-in headphone amplifier so you can listen without latency at the cost of not being able to hear the effects you apply.

Overview of the Samson C01U Pro

If you’re looking for a microphone versatile and clear enough for more professional applications, the Samson C01U Pro will go a long way before you need any upgrades.

Manufacturer Site: Samson

Blue Snowball iCE – USB Microphone

Street Price: $50

Not to be confused with its similarly named sibling, the iCE version of the Snowball by Blue has a fixed cardioid pattern instead of the multi-pattern feature of the original Blue Snowball. This omission allows the Snowball iCE to be priced even more affordably than its sibling.

The Blue Snowball iCE features a cardioid polar pattern, a tripod desktop stand, and a USB cable.

Features and specifications of the Blue Snowball iCE:

• Frequency response: 40Hz-18kHz
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Sampling frequency: 44.1 / 48kHz
• Bit depth: 16 bits
• Ideal for: home recording, podcasts, content creation and streaming

Pros of the Blue Snowball iCE

The Blue Snowball iCE boasts great sound quality at this price point. From streamers, podcasters, musicians, and producers, the Snowball iCE gets equal amounts of praise for its no-nonsense setup and quality.

Cons of the Blue Snowball iCE

The stand is flimsy and lacks stability and protection against accidental bumps. Therefore, it is recommended to mount it on a suspension arm bracket. Pops and plosives are easily detected in close proximity so the use of a separate pop filter is also recommended.

Overview of the Blue Snowball iCE

The Blue Snowball iCE is a safe choice for your first USB capacitor. With its sound quality and cheap price, it will be a while before you feel the need to upgrade your Condenser microphone.

Manufacturer Site: Blue

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Rode NT-USB Mini

Street Price: $99

The Rode NT-USB Mini is the compact option to the original NT-USB. The NT-USB Mini microphone is Rode’s answer to the demand for a studio quality microphone in a compact and easily transportable format. Initially designed with podcasters, streamers, and voice talents in mind, the Rode NT-USB is equally adept at recording instruments and field recordings. It also features plug and play functionality and zero latency monitoring.

Features and specifications of the Rode NT-USB Mini

• Frequency response: 20-20kHz
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Max SPL: 121dB
• Power requirements: 5V USB power
• Device / OS Compatibility: Class: USB compliant, Windows 10, Mac OS 10.10 or higher with USB 2.0
• Sampling frequency: 48kHz
• Bit depth: 24 bits
• Ideal for: home recording, podcasts, content creation, and streaming

Pros of the Rode NT-USB Mini

The Rode NT-USB Mini is hailed as an all-rounder microphone. Thus, although its specialty is Streaming and Podcasting, this Rode microphone also allows you to obtain high-quality recordings of musical instruments.

Cons of the Rode NT-USB Mini

We recommend buying only from verified dealers as it is common for damaged products to be delivered that do not work.

Overview of the Rode NT-USB Mini

There’s nothing the NT-USB Mini can’t do. If you are looking for a USB microphone that is capable of handling many different scenarios with great results, the NT-USB Mini is an excellent choice.

Manufacturer Site: Rode

Blue Yeti Nano – USB Microphone

Street Price: $100

The Blue Yeti Nano is more than just a tiny version of its larger counterpart. Rather than commit to polar patterns based on digital algorithms, the Yeti Nano uses two separate capsules to provide cardioid and omnipolar patterns.

It features a headphone output and a multifunction knob for microphone gain, headphone output, and functions as a mute switch.

Features and specifications of the Blue Yeti Nano

• Frequency response: 20Hz -20kHz
• Polar pattern: cardioid and omnidirectional (selectable)
• Maximum SPL: 120dB
• Power requirements: 5V USB power
• Device / OS Compatibility: Class: USB compliant, Windows 10, Mac OS 10.10 or higher with USB 2.0
• Sampling frequency: 48kHz
• Bit depth: 24 bits
• Ideal for: podcasts, content creation, streaming, voices and locutions.

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Pros of the Blue Yeti Nano

Having two selectable polar patterns in such a small device is a boon for interviews, field recording, rehearsal recording, and dialogue.

Cons of the Blue Yeti Nano

The multifunction knob is not the most practical, a separate knob for gain adjustment would be nice.

Overview of the Blue Yeti Nano

If you like the sound of the original Yeti and always wanted a USB version to take them on the go, or if this is your first time buying a condenser microphone and you don’t want to get a separate audio interface, the Blue Yeti Nano is a great choice.

Manufacturer Site: Blue

Things to Consider When Buying a Cheap Condenser Microphone

If you are not too familiar with cheap condenser microphones, here is a guide to help you decide which cheap condenser microphone to buy.

Diaphragm size and sound pressure management SPL

Condenser microphones often come with large diaphragms and capture more detail from the sound source. They also work well with different instruments. For high SPL (sound pressure level) applications like miking acoustic drums, wind instruments, or miking guitar amps, those with smaller diaphragms are better. 

Thus, small-diaphragm cardioid microphones are ideal for high-SPL applications because they can handle high volumes. Large-diaphragm microphones reproduce more detail, but can also pick up unwanted reflections and distortion when the diaphragm is overloaded with levels beyond the microphone’s rated maximum.

Recently, more “medium diaphragm microphones” have become more popular. They are usually found in compact designs or USB condenser microphones. They generally have less low-frequency extension -bass- than large diaphragm condensers, but offer a more compact silhouette. This is especially useful for screen visibility during streaming or for reading scripts and lyric sheets.

Polar pattern: uses and background noise reduction

For vocal and single instrument recordings, the cardioid polar pattern is ideal due to its noise reduction capabilities. This pattern captures everything in front of the capsule and rejects background noise from the rear and sides. Omnidirectional and Figure 8 patterns are useful for capturing multiple instruments and sound sources. This also means that background noise can leak in, so consider proper placement and location acoustics first. 

Some inexpensive mics come with polar pattern switching, allowing you to switch between cardioid, omnidirectional, figure 8, and more. These versatile microphones give you more value for your money, but due to the moving parts required, they are more fragile.

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USB vs. XLR

The biggest considerations between going with USB and XLR are convenience and upgradability. Having a USB condenser is more convenient as you won’t need XLR cables or an audio interface to get started. This is ideal for those on the go or those who want to keep equipment small. The downside is that to upgrade, you’ll need to buy a new USB microphone. You will not be able to use hardware vocal effects with a USB microphone.

XLR microphones inevitably require an interface and cables, but are more flexible with regard to routing and upgrade paths. Most XLR condenser microphones also outperform similarly priced USB microphones. If you have plans to upgrade your studio in the future, there are no barriers to that when you use an XLR microphone.

USB microphones get their power from your computer or tablet. This can sometimes cause problems if your device can’t supply enough power, a common problem on iPad. The USB ports on the front of many computers carry less voltage and current than ports connected directly to the motherboard. Insufficient or inconsistent power may cause malfunction or damage. This can also cause your device’s battery to drain. If this happens, you will need a Powered USB Hub. XLR condenser microphones get their electricity from phantom power, usually from mixing consoles or audio interfaces.

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phantompower

Condenser microphones that work via XLR require a power supply that usually comes from a separate preamp, mixing console, or audio interface. There are musicians who mistakenly believe that an XLR to USB cable is enough to power these microphones. Condenser microphones require up to 48 volts of power, while a USB port is only capable of producing around 5 volts. USB condenser microphones have different circuitry, like a charge pump, to increase the voltage going through the microphone. If you buy a condenser microphone with an XLR connection, make sure it has a preamp or input with a switch for phantom power. If you don’t have an audio interface, visit this guide to choosing the best USB audio interfaces: 4/8/16 channels.

iPad USB power issues

To avoid iPad USB power issues, it’s a good idea to use a Powered USB Hub. This is because iOS limits the current that can be used to power USB devices. This may cause a USB microphone to not work at all on the iPad or the microphone to work in a limited way. Also, as soon as you plug in headphones, both devices will draw too much current and the iPad will cut off power completely.