A huge number of people are working from home these days, and even before the coronavirus pandemic, the number of those working from home was already on the rise. If you’re working from home, you’re probably putting together a decent setup for video chatting, which involves getting a microphone that can help you get your message across.
Of course, there are other great reasons to buy a microphone too. Perhaps you’re interested in starting a podcast. Or, maybe you’re recording lessons for your students. In any case, there are a number of microphones for home offices out there, and they’re not all created equal.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide. Here are 6 of the best microphones for home offices.
Rode smartLav+ Omnidirectional Lavalier Microphone
Customer Rating: 4.1 stars
Connection: 3.5mm
Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional
If you’re looking for a reliable lavalier microphone that you can use with your smartphone, then this microphone from Rode is the way to go. The microphone will easily connect with most smartphones and laptops with a headphone jack, plus it has a reinforced cable to ensure that it will last for years to come.
Blue Yeti X Professional USB Microphone
Customer Rating: 4.4 stars
Connection: USB
Polar Pattern: Cardioid, omnidirectional figure-8, stereo
If you want to really step up the audio quality in your office, then the Blue Yeti X USB microphone is an excellent choice. The microphone connects to your computer through USB, has a selectable polar pattern that will help you get the most concise sound possible, and has audio controls built right into it. It even has a headphone jack built into it, making it an all-in-one home audio solution.
Audio Technica AT2020USB+
Customer Rating: 4.6 stars
Connection: USB
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Audio Technica has a long history in the professional audio world, and for good reason. This particular microphone is a USB version of its popular AT2020, and it also has a headphone jack built into it and controls for monitoring your sound. It’s compatible with most computers, has a sleek design and is a great choice for podcasters, teachers or Zoom participants alike.
Apogee MiC Plus
Customer Rating: 4.1 stars
Connection: USB
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Apogee is another company that those in the music world will immediately recognize. The Apogee MiC Plus offers a number of handy features, including a USB connection, high-quality audio and more. Not only that, but the microphone also has LED lights on the front to help indicate your levels, ensuring that you’ll always get the best audio you possibly can.
Electro Voice RE-20 Cardioid Microphone
Customer Rating: 4.8 stars
Connection: XLR
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Perhaps you’re truly looking for a professional audio setup — and the Electro Voice RE-20 screams professional. This particular microphone has been a mainstay in broadcasting for decades, and for good reason. It sounds warm, detailed and crisp, so if you want studio-quality audio, it’s your best bet. To use this microphone, you will need a separate microphone stand and audio interface to connect it to your computer, so keep that in mind.
Polsen MO-IDL1
Customer Rating: 4.5 stars
Connection: 3.5mm
Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional
If you like the idea of a lavalier microphone but don’t want to spend more than you have to, then the Polson MO-IDL1 lavalier microphone is a solid option. The microphone may not sound quite as good as the Rode microphone, but it should easily sound better than the microphone built into your computer or smartphone. It’s also compatible with both smartphones and DSLR cameras, which is a nice touch.
