The Best Budget Microphone for Podcasting Under $150.00

Audio quality plays an important role in producing a high-quality podcast, which makes selecting a professional microphone a key decision for your podcasting. If you're looking for affordable podcast microphones or the best budget microphone for podcasting that delivers professional-quality sound for podcasting, you’ve come to the right place. There are numerous mics available for podcasting; however, the best podcast microphone for you isn’t always the most expensive one. What matters is choosing the right mic, which means you need to consider your podcast format, budget, and preferences, as well as be well-informed about the available podcast mics.

How to Find a High-Quality but Cheap Podcast Microphone

Shopping around online hunting for the best podcasting microphone or cheap microphones for podcasting but feel overwhelmed with all the options in the market and confused about which one to choose? We’ve outlined the following list of good microphone for beginner podcasters under $150 to help you choose wisely.

Overview of Dynamic Mics vs. Condenser Mics:

Dynamic vs. Condenser: Dynamic mics are usually more focused with a cleaner recording, while condenser mics have a higher output level and are more sensitive to sub-par environment with a better response to high frequencies. If you’re in a noisy environment or plan to record louder sounds, a dynamic mic is a better choice. However, when it comes to studio recording or vocals, a condenser mic is preferred.

USB vs. XLR: USB works just by being plugged into the USB port of your laptop or phone, while XLR requires additional power sources.

Why Choose Good Microphones for Podcasting?

Choosing the best podcast microphones ensures clear, professional sound quality, which is essential for engaging your audience. A high-quality mic minimizes background noise, enhances voice clarity, and provides a more polished listening experience, helping you stand out in a competitive podcasting market.

High-quality microphones are essential for creating professional audio content because they excel in three areas:

1. Audio Clarity: Superior microphones capture crisp, natural sound by accurately reproducing a broad range of vocal tones. This ensures your voice sounds clear, enhancing the overall listening experience.
   
   
2. Reducing Background Noise: Many professional microphones feature directional polar patterns, such as cardioid or supercardioid, which focus on the speaker's voice while minimizing ambient noise. Built-in noise filters further reduce plosives and handling sounds.
3. Engaging Listeners: Clear and distraction-free audio keeps audiences engaged. Quality microphones allow for consistent sound levels and convey emotions effectively, which helps maintain a strong connection with listeners.

Investing in an affordable podcast mic ensures better sound quality, less noise interference, and a more captivating experience for your audience.

MAONO PM422 - The Professional Best Budget Microphone for Podcasting Under $150

 

MAONO PM422 is a cardioid USB condenser mic that comes with a complete kit including a boom arm, a table clamp, a shock mount, a foam covering, a pop filter, and the USB cable at an approximate price of $109.99 price to $119.99--well-worth your budget. With a flat frequency response of 20Hz-20kH and delivers a rich, full-bodied sound, it is well-suited to podcasting and sound reproduction. Besides zero-latency monitoring by simply plugging your headphone into the mic jack, it also features a touch key mute and hardware gain knob.

If you're starting out, the Maono podcasting microphone kit provides everything needed for an entry-level podcast microphone setup right out of the box.

Pros

• Excellent sound quality
• Plug and play
• Quickly touch mute
• Hardware gain knob
• Lots of accessories included

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Check out this user manual on how to set up PM422 mic: 

MXL 770- XLR Microphone - Around $80

MXL 770 is a small-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone that features a warm and balanced sound and 30Hz-20kHz frequency response, making it a great option for recording vocals and music. Made with durable metal finish, it also has a black and gold fashionable design.

Pros

• User-friendly
• Sound quality
• Sensitive and versatile
• Fashionable design with durable quality

Cons

• Concern over its long-term durability
• Background noises
• The quality of the shock mount

Top Picks: Good Microphones for Podcasting Under $100

1. Samson Q2U -XLR Microphone - Around $60

Samson Q2U is an budget-friendly podcasting mic with a cardioid pickup pattern that supports both USB and XLR connectors. Along with the microphone, it comes with an extendable desktop stand, a mic clip, a pop-filter and the USB and XLR cables.

Its audio output sound quality is good for its price and does a great job at rejecting off-axis noise. It basically includes everything that a beginner needs to start your own podcasting.

Pros

• Dynamic mic with cardioid polar pattern
• USB/XRL connectivity
• Great Sound quality
• Handheld or desktop operation
• Lots of included accessories

Cons

• No shock mount included
• Lacks USB-C

 2. Shure SM58 - Dynamic XLR Microphone Around $99

Shure SM58 is a rugged and reliable cheap podcast mic perfect for live vocals and spoken word recordings. Manufactured with removable grille and metal construction, Shure SM58 is a XLR dynamic microphone with a frequency response ranging from 50 Hz to 15 kHz and equipped with a shock mount system and built-in pop filter to effectively reduce background noises, which is ideal for especially for live performances.

Pros

• Dynamic mic
• Durability
• Warm and consistent sound
• Cardioid pickup pattern
• Shock amount included

Cons

• Not good enough for studio recording

3. Blue Yeti USB Mic Around $79-USB Dynamic Microphone

The Blue Yeti is often considered one of the best podcast mic on a budget, offering multiple polar patterns and excellent sound at an affordable price.

Blue Yeti USB Mic is a well-built budget dynamic mic with a combination of affordable price, quality and performance. It is easy to use, offers a high-quality crisp sound and supports real-time monitoring with its built-in volume knob. Being able to switch between four polar patterns including cardioid, omnidirectional and directional, it is a great USB podcast microphone suitable for a single or multi-people podcast.

Pros

• Dynamic mic
• Plug-and-play
• Excellent sound quality
• Built-in gain control and volume knob
• Four polar patterns

Cons

• XLR connectivity not available
• No pop filter included

Also, when choosing the right podcast mic, consider how do you define "cheap" by setting a typical budget. 

Here’s a comparison table for those mics. (“Price” is approximate / typical retail at time of writing — actual local prices may vary.)

What Makes a Cheap Podcast Microphone? 

A budget podcast mic under $150 balances decent sound quality with affordability, making it an ideal choice for new podcasters. Whether you pick an Amazon Basics USB condenser mic or a Behringer XM8500 dynamic mic, the focus is on value for money while still delivering quality audio.

Another versatile option is the Audio-Technica ATR2100 (ATR2100x-USB) (~$50–60), a hybrid USB/XLR dynamic mic popular in Reddit polls and expert lists, perfect for podcast beginners.

Say that after doing a quick bit of research, you realize that a dynamic mic fits your requirements and current setup. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right budget mic and understand what features to look for in your microphone setup for podcasting.

Best Budget Microphones for Podcasting: Comparison Table of Top Picks

Here’s a comparison table for those mics. (“Price” is approximate / typical retail at time of writing — actual local prices may vary.)

What Makes a Great Budget Microphone for Podcasting

When you’re on a tight budget, choosing a microphone involves trade-offs. But several features make a mic “great” even at lower cost. Let’s break down what matters and see how Maono PM422 and Maono PD200XS perform.

Polar Patterns / Dynamic vs Condenser

• Polar pattern determines from which direction the mic picks up sound. The cardioid pattern is most common for podcasting, because it focuses on sound in front of the mic and rejects sound from the sides and rear.
  

• Dynamic vs condenser reflects how sensitive the mic is:
   • Condenser mics tend to be more sensitive and pick up more detail, but also more ambient noise.
   • Dynamic mics are more forgiving in less-than-ideal rooms and can handle louder voices without distortion.

Maono PM422 — This is a USB condenser mic with a cardioid polar pattern. Because it’s condenser, it captures detail and clarity, but you’ll want to be mindful of ambient noise in untreated spaces.

Maono PD200XS — This is a dynamic mic with cardioid polar pattern, and it offers both USB and XLR outputs.
As a dynamic mic, it’s more robust against room noise and better suited for less-than-perfect environments.

In many real-world podcasting settings, a dynamic cardioid mic provides more consistent results, especially for beginners working in untreated rooms.

Connection Types: USB, XLR, Hybrid

• USB: Plug-and-play, no extra interface needed. Excellent for beginners and those wanting simplicity.
  

• XLR: Requires an audio interface or mixer. Offers more flexibility and upgrade potential.
  

• Hybrid / Combo (USB + XLR): Gives you both options, so you can start simple and upgrade later.
  

Maono PM422 — It is strictly USB powered and uses USB for both signal and power.
This makes it very easy to use out of the box, but it limits you if you later want to expand into a multi-mic rig with an interface.

Maono PD200XS — It offers a hybrid setup: USB plus XLR connectivity.
You can begin by plugging into your computer via USB. Later you can switch to XLR into an interface or mixer for more control and expansion.

Because of this hybrid design, PD200XS has an advantage in scalability for creators planning to grow their setup.

Noise Rejection / Off-Axis Sensitivity

• A mic’s ability to reject off-axis sounds (from the sides or rear) is critical, especially in environments with background noise, HVAC hum, or echo.
  

• Lower off-axis sensitivity (less “hearing” the room) is better — ideally, your mic should focus on speech and filter out ambient noise.

Maono PM422 — Its cardioid pattern helps reject side noise. However, as a condenser mic, it is more sensitive to distant sounds and room reflections. It has a typical S/N (signal-to-noise) spec of 74 dB. 

Maono PD200XS — As a dynamic mic, it already has inherently lower sensitivity to far away sounds, giving better noise rejection in live environments. Additionally, its cardioid pattern further aids in isolating speech. 

In practice, PD200XS will perform more reliably in noisy or resonant rooms.

Durability & Build Quality

• Budget mics often compromise on materials; a more durable body, robust connectors, and solid internal structure make a mic last longer.
  

• Metal bodies, sturdy switches, and quality connectors are ideal.
  

Maono PM422 — It has a metal frame design for the boom arm kit that comes with it.
While the mic itself is good for desktop use, it may not be engineered for rough handling or on-location field use.

Maono PD200XS — Built with a metal body and more rugged design.
This gives it an edge in durability, especially when moved between setups or used more aggressively.

If your content setup involves travel or frequent moves, PD200XS will likely hold up better in the long run.

Included Accessories (Windscreens, Pop Filters, Mounts)

• Accessories enhance usability and help mitigate issues like plosives (popping "p" / "b" sounds) or handling noise.
  

• Ideal budget mics come with pop filters, windscreens, shock mounts, and mounting hardware.

Maono PM422 — The kit version often includes a pop filter, boom arm, shock mount, and windscreen. 

Maono PD200XS — The “XS” kit typically includes a boom arm, shock mount, and other mounting hardware.
However, note: although PD200XS has many accessories, it might not include an XLR cable or stand — you may need to supply those. 

If you get a mic that lacks certain accessories, budget some extra cost for a pop filter, shock mount, and windscreen — these improve audio quality significantly.

Expandability / Upgrade Path

• A mic’s longevity is partly determined by how well it fits into evolving rigs (multiple mics, mixers, interfaces, etc.).
  

• Mics with XLR outputs and good signal headroom are easier to integrate into larger setups.
  

Maono PM422 — As a USB-only mic, it is limited in expandability. You can’t easily route it through a traditional mixing board or use the same mic in XLR setups later.

Maono PD200XS — Its hybrid USB/XLR design gives a clear upgrade path. You can start simple (USB) and later switch to a professional interface or mixer via XLR — without replacing the mic itself.

Because PD200XS supports both worlds, it offers better future-proofing for creators who plan to scale their podcasting setup.

Summary

If you’re looking for the simplest, most affordable mic to get started with podcasting, Maono PM422 is a solid USB condenser option. It’s easy to use and delivers good clarity. But its limitations in noise rejection, expandability, and ruggedness make it less ideal for more demanding or dynamic setups.

On the other hand, Maono PD200XS offers more flexibility, better noise resilience (thanks to its dynamic design), and a path forward via XLR connectivity. While slightly more complex and potentially requiring added components, it’s a stronger choice for serious creators who want to grow.

Quick Buying Guide: Features to Consider When Selecting a Budget Podcasting Mic:

When selecting a dynamic mic on a budget, it's essential to consider several features to ensure you're getting the best performance for your money. While dynamic mics are known for their durability and reliability, not all budget-friendly options are created equal. Here's what to look for:

1. Frequency Response

The frequency response of a microphone refers to the range of sound frequencies it can capture, typically measured in Hz. For podcasting, you'll want a mic that captures a wide range of frequencies to ensure your voice sounds clear and natural. Look for a dynamic mic with a frequency response between 50 Hz to 15 kHz or higher. A wider frequency response ensures that your mic can pick up the full range of your voice, including both low-end and high-end tones, delivering better overall sound quality.

2. Durability and Build Quality

When you're on a budget, it's important to choose a microphone that's built to last. Durability is one of the main advantages of dynamic microphones. Unlike condenser mics, dynamic mics are less sensitive and more resistant to damage from drops or rough handling, which makes them perfect for podcasters on the go. Look for mics with a solid metal construction or rubber shock mounts to prevent internal damage. A sturdy build will ensure your mic can withstand the rigors of regular use and last for years.

3. Sensitivity and Noise Rejection

One of the standout features of dynamic mics is their lower sensitivity compared to condenser mics. While this means they won’t pick up every little sound in the room, it also means they are better at rejecting unwanted background noise. This is especially important if you’re recording in a less-than-perfect environment. Look for mics with cardioid or supercardioid polar patterns, which focus on capturing sound from the front of the mic and reject noise from the sides and rear. This feature will help isolate your voice, ensuring a clearer, more professional sound even in noisy environments.
Considering these features such as: frequency response, durability, and noise rejection, will allow you to select a dynamic mic that not only fits your budget but also delivers high-quality audio for your podcast. Remember, a great mic is an investment in your content, and you don’t have to break the bank to get professional sound quality!

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are some good microphones for podcasting beginners?

For beginners, USB microphones are a popular choice due to their ease of use and plug-and-play functionality. Here are a few excellent options:

• Maono PM422: Offers cardioid polar pattern for focused sound and excellent noise reduction.
• Maono PD200XS: Features cardioid pickup to reduce ambient noise, offers versatility and RGB lighting
• Samson Q2U: Combines USB and XLR outputs, providing flexibility for future upgrades.
• Audio-Technica ATR2100x: Known for clear sound quality, durability, and dual USB/XLR connectivity.

These microphones provide great audio quality at an affordable price, making them ideal for new podcasters.

2. Are USB or XLR microphones better for podcasting on a budget?

USB microphones are generally better for budget-conscious podcasters due to their affordability and simplicity. They require minimal setup—just connect directly to a computer, and you’re ready to record.

However, XLR microphones offer superior sound quality and scalability but require an audio interface or mixer, which increases the cost. If you plan to expand your setup later, consider a hybrid like the Samson Q2U or Audio-Technica ATR2100x, which support both USB and XLR.

In summary:

• USB Mics: Best for beginners or those on a tight budget.
• XLR Mics: Better for those seeking higher audio quality and future expansion.
• Hybrid mics (like PD200XS, Samson Q2U) offer both, making them the best choice if you plan to upgrade later.
  

3. What qualifies as a cheap podcast microphone?

A cheap podcast microphone typically costs under $150 and offers decent sound quality without advanced professional features.

4. Is it possible to sound decent with a cheap mic?

Yes, with proper technique and a quiet environment, a cheap mic can deliver clear, decent podcast audio.

5. What accessories improve cheap podcast microphone sound?

Accessories like pop filters, shock mounts, and foam windshields help reduce noise and improve overall sound quality.

6. What’s the best budget microphone for podcasting under $150?

If you want plug-and-play simplicity, the Maono PM422 or Blue Yeti USB are excellent USB condenser mics with clear sound. For more flexibility and future growth, the Maono PD200XS stands out thanks to its USB/XLR hybrid design.

7. Cheap podcast mic vs premium – which is right for you?

A cheap mic under $150 (e.g., PM422, Samson Q2U) is perfect if you’re starting out, recording solo, or testing podcasting as a hobby.
A premium mic (like Shure SM7B or Rode NT1) offers superior sound and durability but requires higher investment in both the mic and supporting gear.

8. How to choose a budget podcast mic that sounds professional?

Look for:

• Cardioid polar pattern to focus on your voice.
  

• Dynamic design (like PD200XS or SM58) if you record in untreated or noisy rooms.
  

• Included accessories (pop filter, boom arm) for better sound and value.
  

Connection type that fits your setup—USB for simplicity, XLR for scalability.

9. Which best budget microphone for podcasting works well in noisy rooms?

Dynamic mics like the Maono PD200XS, Samson Q2U, and Shure SM58 perform better in noisy or echoey spaces. They reject off-axis noise more effectively than condenser mics like the PM422, MXL 770, or Blue Yeti.

Final Recommendation & Buying Tips

When choosing the best budget microphone for podcasting, focus on audio clarity, durability, and ease of use. Models like the Maono PM422, Samson Q2U, and Blue Yeti offer excellent performance for under $150. For those seeking scalability, hybrid options like the Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB are excellent choices.

Buying Tip: Always consider your recording environment, connection type (USB vs. XLR), and included accessories to get the most from your affordable podcast microphones.

Related Articles:

Dynamic vs. Condenser Mic: Which One to Use

Dynamic Mic Guide: Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Needs

Last updated: 09/25/2025