You’ve got the passion, the gaming setup, and maybe even your first viewer or two, but there’s one thing holding you back: your mic sounds like it’s coming from a potato.

Whether you’re starting out on Twitch or uploading Let’s Plays to YouTube, audio quality can make or break your content. A tinny or echo-filled voice turns viewers away, no matter how fun your gameplay or personality is.

The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune to sound like a pro. This guide walks you through the best cheap streaming microphones available today, including several solid picks under $50. You’ll also learn what to look for in a good mic and how to improve sound quality without spending more.

Let’s help you sound clear, confident, and professional — all on a budget.

What makes a good budget streaming microphone?

Before diving into top mic picks, let’s talk about what makes a budget microphone worth buying. Not all cheap mics are created equal, and knowing what features matter most will help you choose wisely.

Key features to look for

  • USB connectivity: This offers plug-and-play ease — no fancy gear or interfaces needed.
  • Cardioid pickup pattern: Captures sound mainly from the front while reducing room noise.
  • Sturdy build quality: Even at a low price, you can find mics with metal parts or strong stands.
  • Reliable frequency response: A range like 50Hz to 15kHz works well for voice.
  • Noise reduction support: Bonus points for mics that include pop filters or shock mounts.

Condenser vs dynamic – which should you choose?

  • Condenser microphones are sensitive and offer great detail. They’re perfect if you record in a quiet room.
  • Dynamic microphones are better at handling background noise, making them great for non-treated spaces.

Use free software like OBS Studio to add noise suppression, compression, and filters to any mic.

Top 5 budget microphones for streamers (under $50)

Let’s get to the gear. These budget-friendly mics have proven themselves among new streamers and content creators.

1. FIFINE K669B USB Microphone

  • Price: ~£30–£40
  • Connection: USB
  • Pickup Pattern: Cardioid

Why it stands out: Known as the “king of budget mics”, it’s a top pick for those starting out.

Pros:

  • Solid metal build
  • Clear sound right out of the box
  • Built-in gain knob

Cons:

  • No included pop filter
  • Non-adjustable stand

Best for: Solo streamers with quiet rooms.

2. TONOR TC-777 USB Condenser Mic

A USB microphone kit including a Tonor microphone, pop filter, shock mount, USB cable, foam windscreen, and instruction manual.

  • Price: ~£30
  • Connection: USB
  • Pickup Pattern: Cardioid

Why it stands out: It’s a full beginner kit — including a stand, pop filter, and shock mount.

Pros:

  • Complete setup in the box
  • Good sound for voice
  • Easy background noise control

Cons:

  • Mostly plastic parts
  • Durability may be limited with daily use

Best for: Streamers who want everything in one go.

3. Maono AU-A04 USB/XLR Microphone

  • Price: Just under £50
  • Connection: USB + XLR
  • Pickup Pattern: Cardioid

Why it stands out: Dual connectivity makes this perfect for both beginners and upgraders.

Pros:

  • USB for now, XLR for future upgrades
  • Boom arm and pop filter included
  • Strong, studio-like sound

Cons:

  • The boom arm can be wobbly
  • XLR may require some learning

Best for: Beginners who want to grow their setup later.

4. Neewer NW-800 Condenser Mic Kit

A Neewer microphone with a gold mesh head, mounted on a shock mount, accompanied by a foam windscreen and audio cable, on a light blue background.

  • Price: ~£25–£35
  • Connection: XLR (needs phantom power)
  • Pickup Pattern: Cardioid

Why it stands out: One of the cheapest condenser kits that still sounds warm and professional.

Pros:

  • Excellent value
  • Includes boom arm and shock mount
  • Surprisingly clean audio

Cons:

  • Needs external phantom power
  • Not beginner-friendly

Best for: Tech-savvy streamers with some gear knowledge.

5. Zaffiro USB Podcast Microphone

  • Price: ~£25
  • Connection: USB
  • Pickup Pattern: Cardioid

Why it stands out: A no-fuss starter mic for those testing the waters.

Pros:

  • Simple plug-and-play use
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Clear voice capture

Cons:

  • No extra features
  • Limited sound depth

Best for: Casual or beginner streamers.

How to improve audio quality without spending more

A person in a light blue shirt gestures while sitting at a desk with a microphone, laptop, and headphones against a dark backdrop.

Even a great budget mic won’t sound good if used poorly. Follow these tips to upgrade your sound instantly.

Optimise mic placement

  • Distance: Keep the mic 6–12 inches from your mouth.
  • Angle: Speak slightly off-centre to avoid harsh popping sounds.
  • Height: Align it with your mouth, not above or below.

Use OBS Studio filters

You can improve any mic with built-in filters in OBS Studio

  • Noise gate: Blocks background noise when you’re not speaking.
  • Compressor: Balances volume levels.
  • Gain: Boosts low mic input safely.

Treat your room for better sound

  • Use pillows, rugs, or curtains to reduce echo.
  • Avoid facing bare walls.
  • Soft surroundings absorb sound better and improve clarity.

Where to find the best streaming gear deals

Streaming gear often goes on sale — here’s where to check.

  • Amazon UK: Daily deals and open-box items
  • eBay: Great for used or refurbished mics
  • Gear4music & Thomann: Trustworthy music gear stores
  • Facebook Marketplace: Local sellers with great prices

Tip: Search YouTube for mic audio tests before buying to hear real-life results.

Real talk: What to expect from budget microphones

Let’s keep it real — these aren’t studio-grade mics. But that doesn’t mean they sound bad.

In fact, many budget mics deliver a clean, warm voice tone that’s more than enough to grow an audience. Most viewers are forgiving of basic webcam quality, but not bad audio.

Good sound keeps people listening, even in the background while they game or work. That’s why your mic matters. Now that you’re armed with the best cheap streaming microphone options, it’s time to sound as good as you play. You can also explore affordable lighting setups.

Replay your streams with headphones on. You’ll catch sound issues fast.

Budget mics that punch above their price

You don’t need an expensive mic to sound professional — just smart choices and a bit of setup work.

Whether you go for the all-in-one TONOR TC-777 or the future-ready Maono AU-A04, there’s a budget mic here that can match your needs. Focus on placement, tweak your software settings, and you’ll be shocked at how good your stream sounds.

Ready to take your sound to the next level?