There are plenty of different types of microphones out there on the market. However, when using one with a lightweight laptop like a Chromebook, most people prefer a USB microphone that is easy to set up and use. Moreover, most Chromebooks and Windows laptops do not even need third-party software for running these external mics. All you need is a compatible USB port to start recording.
A few years ago, all the good microphones came with an XLR connection which was not commonly found in laptops or other smart devices. Today, however, the audio fields are predominantly moving towards USB connectors which have become an industry-standard in most applications. The following article will look at the six best USB microphones you can buy from Amazon in 2022. All products included in our list are Chromebook compatible as well.
Using external microphones with Chromebooks
At this point, most people know that Chromebooks essentially work as a lightweight alternative to traditional laptops. They run on Chrome OS, which is a browser-based operating system. Due to that, no manufacturer can chip in more than just a few hits of processing power in these laptops. Because of having a very niche target audience, Chromebooks seem more appealing to students and office workers. They come in their preferred price range and promise to deliver everything they need daily.
However, one may often face a professional use case that was not meant to be handled on such hardware. Using the original fixtures and specifications in those scenarios will be hard. One such instance can be that of audio input. All Chromebooks have a built-in microphone but are not of the highest quality. Due to that, expert-level audio tasks can only be completed with an external microphone.
These items can be connected with a USB cable or the headphone jack. Almost all of these mics are plug-and-play, meaning you do not need extensive setup or hardware drivers on Chrome OS. Besides, because most drivers are incompatible with Chromebooks, you would always want to have a USB microphone. Once you make the physical connection, all left is to assign the input audio source and tweak the filter settings.
Things to consider in a USB microphone
USB microphones are not only easy-to-use compared to those with an XLR connection but are also relatively inexpensive. Although the real choice between the two depends upon your application. USB mics are known to have a cardioid polar pattern. In layman’s terms, it means that they are made to pick up sounds from the front side of their body. Therefore, they will work perfectly if you want to record your voice or a directional audio source. On the other hand, an XLR microphone would be a better choice for those who need to record spatial sound.
You must know some technicalities and how that product works whenever you buy something new. That helps you make a relatively balanced judgment when choosing between two similar items. Since you will purchase an external mic for your Chromebook, we assume you need it for professional use. We advise you to look at the microphone’s frequency range, so you know what to expect in advance.
Make sure the mic you choose has zero latency and does not cause any lags in post-processing. Such lags can cause frustration when the audio is synced with a separate video source. Lastly, if you want to make the purchase future-proof, consider buying a 24-bit mic. They are much harder to find in the USB category but usually provide more headroom and a quieter recording. Following is a list of 6 USB mics offering optimal performance with Chromebooks and Chrome OS.
1. Blue Yeti Nano
Blue Yeti Nano
The Blue Yeti Nano provides legendary broadcast sound with two customizable mic capsules. Both of these give your voice exceptional presence and detail for professional-level streaming. You can use it equally well in live or exclusive recordings. It comes with a licensed version of Blue Voice Software which elevates your vocal sound and entertains the audience with enhanced effects, modulation, and HD audio samples.
It offers two pickup patterns: Cardioid and Omni. They are optimal for pro recordings, Zoom meetings, gaming streams, podcasts, YouTube videos, voice-overs, and much more. The mic offers no-latency precise monitoring. It becomes possible because of the onboard headphone output and advanced volume controls. They can quickly adjust mic volume, turn mute, or switch the pickup pattern. The condenser itself fits on any desktop and looks great on the camera. You can order Blue Yeti Nano from Amazon for just $79.
2. Samson Technologies Q2U Dynamic Microphone
Samson Technologies Q2U Dynamic Microphone
The Samson Technologies Q2U offers the best of both worlds. It is a professional handheld dynamic microphone with USB digital output for connection with a Chromebook. There is also an XLR analog output for mixers, audio interfaces, or portable PA systems. It has a dynamic capsule with a cardioid pickup pattern. That enables it to minimize ambient sounds and other noises around you.
This mic also reduces possible feedback in liver performance settings. The onboard headphone jack allows for zero-latency monitoring, so you can hear yourself without delay or echo. Mic’s outlook is typical with a solid, die-cast construction of a heavy gauge mesh grill. Being plug-and-play, you do not need any special drivers. Just connect the mic to your Chromebook, launch your favorite audio program, and start recording at once. You can order Samson Technologies Q2U from Amazon for just $60.
3. TONOR TC30 Condenser Microphone
TONOR TC30 Condenser Microphone
The TONOR TC30 comes with a USB 2.0 data port which requires no setup whatsoever. It is compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chrome OS. This is ideal for gaming, podcasting, Zoom meetings, live streams, Skype calls, and online conferences. You can enjoy an excellent off-axis suppression function with a cardioid pickup pattern. It allows you to capture more natural sound and eliminates unwanted background noise.
You do not need any assembly either. Attach the pop filter to the mic tripod and start recording immediately. It has a unique anti-vibration build. The upgraded concealed shock mount can effectively reduce the noise caused by the mouse, keyboard, or direct touch. Its package includes one condenser mic, shock mount, a foldable tripod, pop filters, a USB Type-C to USB Type-A cable, and a user manual. You can order TONOR TC30 from Amazon for just $25.
4. Razer Seiren X
Razer Seiren X
The Razer Seiren X has a built-in background noise reduction. It utilizes a super-cardioid pickup microphone to eliminate distracting noises further away from the recording location. That allows for professional-grade streaming audio perfect for recording in noisy surroundings. The Razer Seiren X also comes with a shock mount that can dampen the vibrations to help protect against bumps for smooth and uninterrupted audio.
Zero-latency monitoring runs real-time in-stream diagnostics without confusing echos or other disturbances. It is designed and tested by top Twitch streamers. Backed by the best microphone technology, it is the first step to taking your live streaming to new broadcasting heights. This is designed to be smaller than other USB microphones, making it easy to pack with the rest of your setup. You can order Razer Seiren X from Amazon for just $60.
5. FIFINE K668 Home Studio Microphone
FIFINE K668 Home Studio Microphone
The FIFINE K668 can be plugged into any available USB port and selected as your input in the software settings. That is all you need to start recording high-quality audio with it. A distinctive Omni pickup pattern is excellent for isolating the primary sound source. As evident by its name, the FIFINE K668 is ideal for home studios, Skype calls, Discord rooms, Yahoo recordings, YouTube streams, and much more.
It offers a smooth and flat frequency response. This is excellent for singing, speech, and voice-overs alike. Moreover, it records directly to your computer, allowing it to be used for podcasts. An extremely high signal output can be transmitted via a 5.9-foot long USB cable included in the package. Without a doubt, the unique selling point of this microphone is its surprisingly low price tag. You can order FIFINE K668 from Amazon for just $15.
6. Blue Snowball iCE
Blue Snowball iCE
The Blue Snowball iCE has a custom condenser capsule that delivers crystal-clear audio quality. It is far more enhanced than the one offered by the inherent mic on your Chromebook. Featuring a cardioid pickup pattern, the Blue Snowball iCE captures your voice with a clear and focused recording pattern that is perfect for various applications.
It has a stylish retro design which is not found in any other product on this list. The adjustable desktop stand lets you position the microphone about the sound source. That ends up saving space on your desktop for the optimal broadcast setup. Whether you are conducting interviews over Skype or streaming your gameplay over Twitch, this mic will undoubtedly meet your expectations. You can order Blue Snowball iCE from Amazon for just $50.
Conclusion
Chromebooks are securing more and more market share with each passing year. That widens their customer base, which now includes varying sets of users. However, the limitations on their hardware components are still in place, which forces people to go on the search for external peripherals. The same is the case with USB microphones. Whether you are looking to record voice-overs or plan on starting live streams, these six mics for your Chromebooks can cover all use cases.
