Without saying much, let's take a look at the most important features depending on the use you want!

If you are interested in learning more, below you will find a more detailed analysis of the specs. 

Gaming / Streaming

Most gamers use condenser microphones to easily capture their voice. What is important, however, is that they are directional Cardioid or Supercardioid so they avoid recording sounds from the keys or the mouse.

The simplest solution would be a desktop stand, but many times it brings the disadvantage of transferring the noises from the surface it is placed on, making it not ideal for gaming, since there is quite a bit of "action" on the desk.

What we recommend is to combine the microphone with a boom arm so that it does not come into contact with vibrations, and is not in your way while you play. 

Skroutz Tip: If you do not want to buy a stand and microphone separately, you can choose a set for convenience.

Finally, in case you do not have a sound card because you are just starting streaming or simply do not care that much, make sure it has a USB port, so it can connect easily to your computer.

Interviews / Podcast

Here, too, you will need a condenser microphone, but it does not need to be omnidirectional, since:

• it may be used by 2 people
• there will be no constant noises such as keyboard typing

At the same time, in the case of a podcast, you can also choose a desktop stand type, since there will again be no fear of vibrations. Of course, a boom stand is always useful, since with a simple movement you can move the microphone out of the way and store it at the side of the desk.

Finally, depending on whether or not you have a sound card, you can choose a microphone with XLR or USB.

Skroutz Tip: Do not start recording if you have not purchased a filter for your microphone. It will protect your recordings from loud consonant sounds such as "s" and the speech peculiarities of each person.

Music at home / studio

For recording voice or acoustic instruments in a controlled environment

The solution is a condenser microphone. But be careful! If you want to be super pro, you need to pay attention to the microphone diaphragm, as the needs of voice and those of an acoustic guitar are different.

Specifically, for recording acoustic instruments, the best approach is a small-diaphragm condenser microphone, since they are very sensitive and capture every detail of the sound exceptionally well.

For voice, choose a classic large-diaphragm condenser microphone, since its sound is much warmer and more natural.

For recording voice in an uncontrolled space or electric instruments (guitar, bass)

The dynamic microphone is the only way. This way, your voice will be heard clearly, without picking up annoying noises, while also being durable enough for loud sounds without distortion.

Finally, since for the above you definitely need an external sound card, make full use of it by buying a microphone with XLR connection. This way you will have more processing options as well as superior quality.

Skroutz Tip: Whether you want to sing or record an instrument, a stand with plenty of movement options is a must, since especially if you play an instrument, your hands will be occupied.

Live music

The dynamic microphone is the best solution, but if you want to choose a wireless one, it is worth considering the size of the venue where you will be playing, as well as how often you will do it.

That is, if you play occasionally in very small spaces and want freedom of movement, a VHF-type connection microphone will do the job.

If this is something you want to do beyond a hobby and you want to invest in something suitable for larger spaces, without the risk of interference, UHF is the best solution, although a little more expensive.

Of course, so you don't have to look too much the Shure SM 58 is also the top selling choice worldwide in wired and wireless!

Vlogging / Outdoor Use

Choose a microphone that attaches to your lapel for freedom of movement, but also connects easily to your camera or smartphone. That means you want it to have either Lightning, or USB, or 3.5mm, depending on the device you want to connect it to.

In terms of type, most people prefer omnidirectional condenser microphones so that capturing the voice is easy without needing to speak into a specific point on the microphone and end up with a stiff neck.

In the case of interviews, you will see that there are models so small that you can have one on your lapel and one in your hand to serve your conversation partner.

After seeing what you need for each use, let's take a closer look at each feature, along with its appropriate application.

Type of operation

Microphones, depending on their construction, are divided into condenser and dynamic.

Connection

The most common types of wired microphone connections are:

The most common types of wireless microphone connections are:

Direction

Depending on where the microphones receive sound from, they are divided into 3 main categories, each having its ideal use.

Now you can choose the right microphone for your own needs as well as the right stand!