Microphones
USB mics, podcast condensers, and studio recording gear. Guides for streamers, podcasters, and home studios.
Best Audio Interface for MacBook (2026)
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is the best audio interface for MacBook in 2026 on its specs and ratings. Two cheaper alternatives, one with an explicit Mac listing.
Best Audio Interface for Streaming (2026)
The Elgato Wave XLR MK.2 is the best audio interface for streaming in 2026 on its listed features, with the GoXLR Mini and Scarlett Solo as alternatives.
Best Audio Interface Under $200 (2026)
The Audient EVO 4 is the best audio interface under $200 in 2026 at $161.99. The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 now lists above $200, so it dropped out.
Best Audio Interface Under $100 (2026)
The Behringer UMC202HD is the best audio interface under $100 in 2026: 192kHz, two Midas preamps and 3,376 ratings at 4.6 stars. Two cheaper alternatives ranked.
Best USB Microphone Under $100 (2026)
The Samson Q2U is the best USB microphone under $100 in 2026 at $79.99: USB-C and XLR in one pack. The FIFINE K669B is $32.99. Four mics compared.
Best MIDI Keyboard Under $150 (2026)
The Arturia MiniLab 3 is the best MIDI keyboard under $150 in 2026 at $119 and 4.7 stars. The Akai MPK Mini MK3 is cheaper, the Keystation 49 has full-size keys.
Best Turntable Under $300 (2026)
The Fluance RT80 is the best turntable under $300 in 2026 at $249.99: built-in preamp, AT91 cartridge, 4.6 stars. The AT-LP60X is $179 and fully automatic.
Audient iD4 vs Scarlett 2i2: Which Audio Interface Wins? (2026)
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 wins the Audient iD4 vs Scarlett 2i2 matchup for two-input needs in 2026. The iD4 costs $25 less and has a Class-A preamp, per Audient.
Focusrite Scarlett Solo vs 2i2: Do You Need the Extra Input? (2026)
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is worth the extra $65 if you ever record two sources. The Solo has one mic preamp and one Hi-Z input and costs $159.99.
Audio-Technica AT2020 vs Rode NT1: Entry Condenser Shootout (2026)
The Rode NT1 5th Gen wins AT2020 vs Rode NT1 on flexibility in 2026: XLR plus USB-C, 32-bit float. The AT2020 costs $106 less and is rated 4.7 stars.
Best Podcast Microphone Under $200 in 2026
The Elgato Wave DX is the best podcast microphone under $200 in 2026 at $89.99. The Rode PodMic USB ($189) adds USB-C and a headphone jack.
Best USB Microphone for Podcasting Under $100 (2026)
The Samson Q2U is the best USB microphone for podcasting under $100 in 2026: dynamic, USB-C plus XLR, $79.99. Three alternatives, one without a buy link.