WingRep.com is supported by readers like you. If you purchase products through some links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Read Our Disclosure

5 Best Condenser Microphones Under $200 | 2022 Vocal Mic Guide

5 Best Condenser Microphones Under $200 | 2022 Vocal Mic Guide 1

When it comes to microphones, we usually have two choices.

The first being Dynamic Microphones...

...while the other is Condenser Microphones.

Since the article is specifically about best condenser microphones under $200, let’s stick to condenser microphones instead!

Before we start let me give you an overview about Condenser microphones.

Shall I?


Our Favorite Vocal Condenser Microphones In 2020

Product

Shure PG27 USB 


Audio Technica AT2035

AKG Perception 420

Blue Spark Cardioid

Blue Yeti Multi Pattern USB

Picture

Shure PG27-USB Multi Purpose Microphone
No products found.
AKG Pro Audio P420 Dual Capsule Condenser Microphone, Black (3101H00430)
Blue Microphones Spark Condenser Microphone, Cardioid
Blue Yeti USB Microphone for PC, Mac, Gaming, Recording, Streaming, Podcasting, Studio and Computer Condenser Mic with Blue VO!CE effects, 4 Pickup Patterns, Plug and Play – Silver

Price

Price not available
$163.90
$149.00
Price not available
$99.99

Prime?

Read Reviews


#5: Shure PG27 USB Condenser Microphone

If you require a mic specifically for recording instruments then Shure PG27 is your best bet as a cheap condenser microphone.

Shure PG27-USB Multi Purpose Microphone
  • USB Plug and Play connectivity allows the convenience of digital recording, anywhere your computer can go
  • Integrated pre-amp with Microphone Gain Control allows control of input signal strength
  • Zero Latency Monitoring for real-time playback and multi-tracking without disorientation
  • Monitor Mix Control for blending microphone and playback audio
  • 1/8" Headphone jack for monitoring
Shure PG27 is on #5 for best microphone for recording vocals

Don’t believe me?

Various instruments like Harmonica, Ukelele, Electric and Acoustic Guitar are played on it.

Since it’s a side-address condenser microphone, you need to hold it sideways as seen in video above.

You can be rest assured about the mic's quality because Shure have been making audio equipment for the past 80 years.

Coming to Shure PG27; it’s a USB microphone and can be directly plugged into your PC.

The microphone even has integrated pre-amp along with gain control which is always an added advantage for any condenser mic under $200.

Shure PG27 package includes mic, an adapter for attaching the mic to a stand, USB cable and pleather carry pouch.

It also includes a headphone jack that allows you to listen what the mic picks up in real time.

This term is known as 'headphone monitoring' and is useful during gaming sessions; when you have Noise Cancelling Headphones on and don't need to scream into your mic.

You can listen to what you're speaking right into your headphones. 

Even in multiple instruments recording; you can listen how different instruments stack up when played together. This allows you to change position of various instruments.

"For the money you are spending Shure PG27 is very close to being best vocal mic under $200."

5 Best Condenser Microphones Under $200 | 2022 Vocal Mic Guide 2

#4: Audio Technica AT2035 XLR Condenser Microphone

Audio Technica AT2035 is a large diaphragm condenser microphone which allows for natural sound and low noise.

Audio-Technica AT2035 Cardioid Condenser Microphone Bundle with Pop Filter with 2 Layered Mesh and 10-foot XLR Cable
  • Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source
  • Large diaphragm for smooth, natural sound and low noise
  • Pop Filter to eliminate the annoying "plosives" from your recordings
  • 10ft. XLR Cable to connect the mic to your mixer or interface
  • Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
audio technica is best xlr condenser microphone

Similar to Audio Technica AT2020 (USB Condenser Mic), the AT2035 features a fixed Cardioid pattern.

It features a side-address format…

… which means you need to speak into the front side of microphone rather than on top of it.

Unlike Audio Technica AT2020, AT2035 features a 80Hz high pass filter and 10dB pad switch.

​Audio Technica AT2035​ retail packaging includes a high-strength plastic Shock Mount and pleather pouch for carrying this XLR Condenser Microphone around.

This means you need to buy an aftermarket XLR cable, Mic Stand and Pop Filter.

The design of Audio Technica AT2035 is similar to AT2050…

… the only difference is, AT2050 features a Polar Pattern selection switch.

Check Audio Technica AT2035 review...

Built quality of the mic is solid and durable. The Matte Black profile of this mic makes it look premium and superior.

Audio Quality via the AT2035 is smooth and bright…

…however for the price, it could've been a bit better.

It’s still my view and yours take on it could be different.

These are however I would say best vocal mic under $200.

"Once you get the right setup with XLR audio interface, Pop Filter and Mic Stand, this microphones will be a fun to work with."

5 Best Condenser Microphones Under $200 | 2022 Vocal Mic Guide 2

#3: AKG Perception 420 Professional XLR Condenser Microphone

Here we have another XLR Microphone in our list i.e. the AKG Perception 420 Professional Mic; which can be considered as one of the best budget condenser mic under $200.

Sale
AKG Pro Audio P420 Dual Capsule Condenser Microphone, Black (3101H00430)
  • One-inch dual-diaphragm microphone with three selectable polar patterns for the perfect setting
  • Low noise electronics for high dynamic range
  • Switchable attenuation pad for high SPL applications up to 155 dB SPL
  • Professional condenser microphones
akg perception 420 is on #3 for best recording microphone for vocals

AKG Perception 420 comes with 1 inch twin diaphragm and have three polar pattern settings.

Due to this; the microphone is well suited for recording vocals as well as musical instruments like guitar, cello, drums and so on.

The box in which it comes with looks very premium for a vocal mic under $200; including a strong, solid and rugged shock mount.

That’s the only thing you get as accessory and nothing else.

AKG Perception 420 Professional XLR Condenser Microphone has matte finish and comes in only two colors i.e. Silver and Black.

Both of them look extremely attractive and premium.

The mic body also features switch pad for high SPL applications up to 155 dB SPL.

It does a great job by reducing low level unwanted frequencies and captures rich high-level frequencies; that is not the case with other cheap condenser microphones.

Multiple polarity patterns, extends its use for multiple applications like two-person podcasting, game sessions recording and stereo mixing.

However the only downside being; compared to other mics AKG Perception 420 doesn’t comes with a detailed guide on how to use this microphone.

Check out its review and see this microphone in work in the video embedded below!

5 Best Condenser Microphones Under $200 | 2022 Vocal Mic Guide 2

#2: Blue Spark Cardioid Condenser Mic

If you are looking for rugged, robust and great sounding XLR Microphone:

Sale
Logitech for Creators BlueBlackoutSpark SL XLR Condenser Microphone Pro Recording, Streaming, Podcasting, Gaming,Large Diaphragm Cardioid Mic Capsule,Shockmount,Natural Sound,Protective Case-Black
  • Custom Blue condenser capsule: The Blackout Spark SL professional condenser microphone delivers Blue’s legendary broadcast vocal and music sound quality with depth and clarity
  • Detailed, transparent sound: This broadcast microphone excels in focused, transparent sound with superb detail to elevate your podcasts, gaming streams, YouTube videos, Zoom calls and more
  • XLR connection: Easy integration with computer USB audio interfaces and mixers
  • High-pass filter: 100Hz high-pass filter and -20dB pad bring professional versatility to your projects, increasing clarity and reducing rumble and distortion from your room, desk or studio
  • Precise cardioid pattern: This streaming microphone for gaming, podcasting and more features a large-diaphragm cardioid capsule, ensuring accurate sound for recording and streaming
Is Blue Spark the Best mic for home recording

Then look no further than Blue Spark.

The microphone comes placed in a wooden box, which is a rarity at this price.

The company also throws in a Shock Mount as well as small Pop Filter.

However, it’s disheartening to see an XLR cable absent from the package. Hence you need to buy an aftermarket XLR cable.

It comes in two colors:

Bright Red Orange and Lighting Blue…

…however if XLR is not your thing; the company also provides a USB interface Blue Spark microphone that is compatible with iOS and Apple devices like iPhone and iPad.

Awesome, isn’t it?

Microphone’s body features only a single button; which company calls as Focus Control, it allows you to toggle between Normal Mode and Focus Mode.

5 Best Condenser Microphones Under $200 | 2022 Vocal Mic Guide 2

#1: Blue Yeti Multi Pattern USB Condenser Mic

Blue Yeti! Are you shocked to see it?

You shouldn't be; because I'll give you enough reasons to put this mic on first position.​

Sale
Blue Yeti USB Microphone for PC, Mac, Gaming, Recording, Streaming, Podcasting, Studio and Computer Condenser Mic with Blue VO!CE effects, 4 Pickup Patterns, Plug and Play – Silver
  • Custom Three-Capsule Array: Produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for YouTube, game streaming, podcasting, Zoom calls and music.
  • Blue VOICE Software: Craft the perfect broadcast vocal sound and entertain your audience with enhanced effects, advanced modulation and HD audio samples. Advanced Blue VOICE is compatible with Yeti, Yeti Nano and Yeti X. To access Blue VOICE, please download Logitech’s free G HUB software.
  • Four Pickup Patterns: Flexible cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns allow you to record in ways that would normally require multiple mics.
  • Onboard Audio Controls: Headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and mic gain put you in charge of every level of the recording and streaming process.
  • Plug 'n Play on Mac and PC: Instantly start recording and streaming on Mac or PC.
Blue Yeti - #1 Best Condenser Mic Under $200

A popular and best condenser microphone under $200 for Youtube Channels, Podcasting and Voice Overs.

For good Youtube Audio, the Blue Yeti is a goto microphone for anyone who requires professional studio like sound quality.

This microphone fills the gap between cheap condenser microphone and studio quality audio.

Take time and watch this video review of Blue Yeti by Mike Thomas from JayzTwoCents (embedded below)

Since it’s a USB condenser mic, the box comes with the mic itself and just a USB cable.

The best part is, Blue Yeti comes with a fixed stand…

… hence you don’t need to buy an aftermarket shock mount and mic stand. However you might need a pop filter.

We have 4 controls on mic body…

  • Pattern Selection Switch: Stereo, Omni-Directional, Cardioid and Stereo
  • Gain Control Knob
  • Volume Knob
  • Mute Button

3 Condenser Capsules which the company calls as Tri-Capsule Array allows the mic to record in any situations like podcasting, voice overs, interviews, field recording, conference calls, vocals and musical instruments.

It is one of that mic which allows you select multiple patterns allowing it for a wider use.

Voice is smooth and bright on this and makes Youtube audio a joy to listen to.

Well do know more about it by clicking here...

The video embedded above features a demo of Blue Yeti recording various instruments.

5 Best Condenser Microphones Under $200 | 2022 Vocal Mic Guide 2