The best microphones for video calls make your voice easier to hear and give you practical controls for everyday meetings. Choose between simple USB setup, adjustable desk placement and extra features such as headphone monitoring or multiple pickup patterns.
Quick Top Products
FIFINE K669B USB Microphone
- Connects directly to a computer's USB-A port for plug-and-play setup.
- A cardioid pattern focuses on voice in front of the microphone.
- The microphone has a built-in volume knob and tripod stand.
Best For: People who want a simple USB microphone with a desktop tripod and direct volume control.
FIFINE K683A USB Microphone
- Works with USB-A or USB-C computers without an extra driver.
- A gain knob and instant mute button provide on-mic control.
- Includes a 3.5mm headphone jack and detachable pop filter.
Best For: Home and office callers who want a desktop USB mic with mute, gain and headphone monitoring.
MAONO DGM20 USB Microphone
- A one-key noise-cancellation function is designed to suppress background noise.
- The noise-reduction software works on Windows.
- It includes a gain knob, mute control and headphone monitoring jack.
Best For: Windows callers who want a USB mic with adjustable noise cancellation and real-time monitoring.
FIFINE AmpliGame A6T USB Microphone
- The kit includes a boom arm, shock mount and detachable pop filter.
- A touch-mute button and volume knob are accessible on the microphone.
- The cardioid pattern emphasizes front voice and reduces rear noise.
Best For: Frequent callers who want a boom arm, touch mute and on-mic volume control.
FIFINE AmpliGame AM8T Microphone Set
- USB supports plug-and-play PC use, with XLR available for a mixer or sound card.
- The kit includes a boom arm and C-clamp.
- The kit includes a mute button, gain knob and headphone jack for real-time monitoring.
Best For: Callers who want simple USB today and the option to connect through an audio interface later.
Samson Q9U Dynamic Microphone
- USB-C and XLR outputs support computer or recording-equipment setups.
- It provides zero-latency headphone monitoring and an onboard mute switch.
- The cardioid pattern minimizes ambient pickup.
Best For: Callers with a USB-C computer who also want an XLR connection for a studio setup.
MAONO PD400X Dynamic Microphone
- USB and XLR outputs support computer and audio-equipment connections.
- Maono Link offers EQ, limiter and compressor adjustments in advanced mode.
- The digital knob controls gain, headphone volume and monitor mix.
Best For: Callers who want USB or XLR connectivity and software-based voice controls over USB.
Straightforward USB Desk Setup
FIFINE USB Microphone, Metal Condenser Recording Microphone for MAC OS, Windows, Cardioid Laptop Mic for Recording Vocals, Voice Overs, Streaming, Meeting and YouTube Videos-K669B
The FIFINE K669B is a compact USB condenser microphone for calls, voice chat and recording at a computer. It connects directly to a USB-A port and includes a 5.9-foot cable, so setup stays simple.
Its cardioid pickup pattern focuses on sound from the front, while the built-in volume knob makes quick level changes accessible without opening software. The metal body and stable tripod suit a fixed desk position.
This model is a practical choice for routine video meetings, but it does not include a boom arm or headphone monitoring jack, and it is not compatible with phones or Xbox.
Best For: People who want a simple USB microphone with a desktop tripod and direct volume control.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Choose this model for a basic computer desk where direct USB connection and simple controls matter more than a boom arm or monitoring jack. The included tripod keeps it freestanding, so allow desk space and position the front of the cardioid mic toward your voice.
Check that your computer has USB-A and that the microphone will stay close enough for your meetings; this option is not intended for phone or Xbox use.
Mute and Headphone Monitoring
FIFINE USB Desktop PC Microphone with Pop Filter for Computer and Mac, Studio Condenser Mic with Gain Knob Mute Button Headphone Jack for Gaming Streaming Recording YouTube, Extra USB-C Plug-K683A
The FIFINE K683A pairs a desktop tripod with controls that are useful during calls. It connects to Mac or Windows computers through USB-A or USB-C without an extra driver, and its cardioid condenser design focuses on sound from the front.
A gain knob, instant mute button and 3.5mm headphone jack put common adjustments on the microphone itself. The included pop filter can help soften plosive sounds.
Its foldable tripod and all-metal construction make it a tidy desk option, though the fixed stand offers less reach than a boom arm and the microphone is incompatible with Xbox.
Best For: Home and office callers who want a desktop USB mic with mute, gain and headphone monitoring.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
This is a good fit for callers who want mute and monitoring controls within reach on a compact desk. Its included tripod is easy to place, while a boom arm would offer more flexible positioning if the keyboard or monitor crowds the workspace.
Confirm which USB cable connection suits your computer and speak toward the mic diaphragm on the logo side. Xbox users should choose another option.
Windows Noise-Cancellation Control
MAONO USB Gaming Microphone for PC, Noise Cancellation Condenser Mic with RGB, Mute, Gain, Computer Desk Mic for Streaming, Podcast, Chat, Twitch, YouTube, Discord, PS5, PS4, GamerWave DGM20 Black
The MAONO DGM20 is a USB condenser microphone with a one-key noise-cancellation function and a cardioid pickup pattern aimed at voice in front of the mic. Its noise-cancellation software is available on Windows, giving Windows users an additional way to manage background sound.
A gain knob, one-click mute and 3.5mm headphone monitoring jack cover common call adjustments without requiring a separate audio interface. The included USB and USB-C cable supports compatible computers and devices.
Check the operating system before relying on the software controls, since that noise-cancellation feature is Windows-only.
Best For: Windows callers who want a USB mic with adjustable noise cancellation and real-time monitoring.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Pick the DGM20 if Windows software noise control and direct headphone monitoring are useful for your call setup. The software is not a cross-platform feature, so Mac users should not count on it; the microphone's physical controls remain separate considerations.
Confirm the computer's USB connection and how you plan to position the microphone, because the notes do not identify an included stand.
Boom Arm and Quick Mute
FIFINE Gaming PC USB Microphone, Podcast Condenser Mic with Boom Arm, Pop Filter, Mute Button for Streaming, Twitch, Online Chat, RGB Computer Mic for PS4/5 PC Gamer Youtuber-AmpliGame A6T
The FIFINE AmpliGame A6T is a USB condenser microphone kit with a boom arm, shock mount and detachable pop filter. Its touch-mute control and bottom volume knob make quick adjustments accessible during calls.
The cardioid pattern focuses on the front voice, and the arm can fold away when the microphone is not in use. It is compatible with Windows, Mac OS and PS4 or PS5.
The C-clamp fits desks up to 2 inches thick, so check your desk edge before buying. This is a gaming-oriented model, but its controls and movable placement also suit online meetings.
Best For: Frequent callers who want a boom arm, touch mute and on-mic volume control.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
The A6T suits callers who want the microphone to swing close during meetings and fold out of the way afterward. The touch control and volume knob help with quick call adjustments, while the clamp's fit depends on your desk thickness.
It is USB-based and compatible with the listed computer systems and PlayStation consoles. Check whether you need a headphone jack on the microphone, since that feature is not specified.
USB or XLR Upgrade Path
FIFINE XLR/USB Gaming Microphone Set, Dynamic PC Mic for Streaming Podcasting, Computer RGB Mic Kit with Boom Arm Stand, Mute Button, Headphones Jack, for Recording Vocal Voice-Over-AmpliGame AM8T
The FIFINE AmpliGame AM8T is a dynamic microphone set with USB and XLR connectivity, a boom arm and a C-clamp. USB provides plug-and-play use with a PC, while XLR supports a mixer or sound card connection for a more developed setup.
On USB, the microphone has a mute button, gain knob, headphone jack and headphone volume control for call-time adjustments and monitoring. Its cardioid pattern is designed to reduce background pickup.
The kit does not include an XLR cable, and the clamp fits desks under 2 inches thick, so plan for those details if you expect to use XLR or mount it at your desk.
Best For: Callers who want simple USB today and the option to connect through an audio interface later.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Choose this AM8T set if you want an included arm and the flexibility to move from USB calls to an XLR mixer or interface. USB carries the listed controls and monitoring features, while an XLR setup requires a separately sourced cable.
Check your desk thickness against the clamp fit and confirm that you have the extra XLR equipment if you plan to use that connection.
Broadcast Controls and USB-C
SAMSON Q9U XLR/USB Dynamic Broadcast Microphone
The Samson Q9U is a dynamic broadcast microphone with both USB-C and XLR outputs. Its USB-C connection provides 24-bit/96kHz digital audio to a Mac or Windows computer without driver downloads, while XLR supports a mixer or audio interface.
A cardioid pattern keeps attention on the voice in front, and zero-latency headphone monitoring makes it possible to hear the mic in real time. The onboard mute switch silences both outputs.
An internal shock mount and dual-layer windscreen address mechanical noise and plosives. Check your mounting plan before purchase, since a stand or arm is not identified in the supplied details.
Best For: Callers with a USB-C computer who also want an XLR connection for a studio setup.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
The Q9U fits callers who want a broadcast-style dynamic mic with direct USB-C operation and an XLR path for studio equipment. Its onboard mute affects both outputs, and headphone monitoring is built in.
Before choosing it, confirm that your computer or interface supports the intended connection and decide how you will mount it; the available details do not identify an included stand or arm.
App-Based Voice Tuning
MAONO Dynamic Microphone, USB/XLR Podcast PC Microphone with Software, EQ,Tap-to-Mute, Headphone Jack, Gain Knob & Volume Control, Studio Mic for Broadcast, Recording, Streaming & Gaming (PD400X)
The MAONO PD400X combines a dynamic capsule and cardioid pattern with USB and XLR outputs. USB offers plug-and-play connection and enables the Maono Link app, where users can select a vocal tone and adjust gain, monitor mix, EQ, limiter and compressor settings.
The microphone also has a touch mute key and a three-in-one digital knob for gain, headphone volume and monitor mix. XLR connects to professional interfaces, mixers or portable PA systems.
This model can suit a call setup that doubles as a home recording station, but software controls depend on USB, so confirm which features you need when switching connections.
Best For: Callers who want USB or XLR connectivity and software-based voice controls over USB.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Choose the PD400X if its app-based adjustments and dual USB/XLR connections match a call-and-recording workflow. The digital knob combines several controls, while the app provides more detailed tuning over USB.
If you plan to use XLR, consider that the USB software controls are not available in that mode. Confirm how you will position the microphone because an included stand or arm is not specified.
How to Choose Microphones For Video Calls
How We Picked Microphones for Video Calls
We prioritized products that connect directly to computers and provide practical features for online meetings, including simple USB setup, mute controls, gain adjustment and headphone monitoring. The selection also considers how a microphone sits on a desk: a tripod is compact, while a boom arm can move the mic closer to the speaker and out of the keyboard area.
Several candidates are gaming or recording microphones rather than meeting-only devices. They remain useful when their core features transfer to calls, such as cardioid pickup, direct USB connection or visible mute status.
We left out duplicate model variants and options whose supplied details offered less distinct value for a general video-call setup.
Comparing Microphones for Video Calls
For a simple desk setup, the FIFINE K669B and K683A connect over USB and keep key controls on the mic. The K683A adds headphone monitoring and a pop filter, while the K669B has a basic tripod and volume knob.
The MAONO DGM20 stands out for Windows-only software noise cancellation; callers using other systems should not count on that feature.
Arm-mounted options change placement more than connection. The FIFINE T683 and AmpliGame A6T include arms, and the AM8T adds both USB and XLR for a future mixer or interface.
The Samson Q9U and MAONO PD400X also provide USB and XLR paths, with the latter adding app-based tuning over USB. The SteelSeries Alias adds visible level and mute feedback plus Sonar software, which suits users who want more control around calls and streams.
| Product | Standout features | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| FIFINE K669B USB MicrophoneCheck Price |
| People who want a simple USB microphone with a desktop tripod and direct volume control. |
| FIFINE K683A USB MicrophoneCheck Price |
| Home and office callers who want a desktop USB mic with mute, gain and headphone monitoring. |
| MAONO DGM20 USB MicrophoneCheck Price |
| Windows callers who want a USB mic with adjustable noise cancellation and real-time monitoring. |
| FIFINE AmpliGame A6T USB MicrophoneCheck Price |
| Frequent callers who want a boom arm, touch mute and on-mic volume control. |
| FIFINE AmpliGame AM8T Microphone SetCheck Price |
| Callers who want simple USB today and the option to connect through an audio interface later. |
| Samson Q9U Dynamic MicrophoneCheck Price |
| Callers with a USB-C computer who also want an XLR connection for a studio setup. |
| MAONO PD400X Dynamic MicrophoneCheck Price |
| Callers who want USB or XLR connectivity and software-based voice controls over USB. |
Choosing a USB Microphone for Online Meetings
USB is the easiest route for most computer calls because several picks connect directly without a separate audio interface. Check whether your computer has the matching USB-A or USB-C port, and confirm platform compatibility if you plan to use a game console or phone.
A plug-and-play connection does not guarantee that every feature works in every mode; the MAONO DGM20's software noise cancellation, for example, is Windows-only.
On-mic controls are useful when a call needs quick privacy muting or small level changes. The K683A, T683, A6T and other picks provide mute or gain controls, while the Samson Q9U mutes both its USB and XLR outputs.
Headphone monitoring is a separate convenience: it lets you hear the mic signal at the device, but check the specific model for that feature rather than assuming every USB mic includes it.
Desk Placement and Background Sound
A tabletop tripod takes little setup and suits a permanent spot, while a boom arm moves the microphone closer and can free space in front of a monitor. Before choosing an arm kit, check the desk edge thickness limit and whether the clamp has room to attach.
For example, the T683 and A6T provide boom arms, while the K683A comes with a foldable tripod.
Cardioid pickup patterns are designed to emphasize sound from the front and reduce some off-axis or ambient pickup. Position the microphone with its intended front facing you and keep it close enough for comfortable speech.
A dynamic model such as the AM8T or Q9U may suit an arrangement where you can speak near the mic, while desktop condenser options offer a different form factor; the supplied details do not establish a universal sound advantage for either type.
Who Should Buy Which Video Call Microphone?
Choose the FIFINE K669B for simple USB setup and a compact tripod, or the K683A if you also want a mute button and headphone monitoring. The MAONO DGM20 is a fit for Windows users who want its noise-cancellation software, while the T683 and A6T suit callers who prefer an adjustable arm.
For a setup that may grow beyond calls, consider the AM8T, Q9U or PD400X for USB and XLR connectivity, checking cable and mounting needs first. The SteelSeries Alias is suited to users who want visible mute and level indicators plus software controls.
Match the mic to your computer ports, desk layout and call habits before adding features you may not use.