USB shotgun microphones are the simplest yet fully-featured microphones. You don’t need to be fully aware of the technical tools as far as you have any recording device. It can be a laptop, smartphone, tablet, DSLR, or camcorder with a USB-C connector or simple USB socket. And you are ready to go. You can even take these best USB shotgun mics anywhere by packing them in your backpack. It will never be possible with those ordinary shotgun microphones having complex wires and connectors.
We admit that some non-USB/Analog shotgun mics perform better than USB shotgun mics. However, then you’ll need an extra connector. It will make the mic expensive as well as complicated. But for any shotgun mic with simple USB-C type connectivity, you can easily connect it with any USB-C port device. There is a long list of shotgun mics available in different price ranges. Although, here, we have eased the process for those looking for the best USB shotgun mic among the wide variety.
Table of Contents
List of Best USB Shotgun Mics
The most important and, at the same time, the hectic thing is to choose the best USB shotgun mic which suits you best. Don’t worry because we are here to help you. I have been vlogging for a long time, so based on my own experience and the thorough research of our team, we are here with our top picks for the best USB shotgun microphone. We have chosen the top USB shotgun mics. If you read this review before buying, it will solve your confusion and help you to decide in a better way.
This Rode VideoMic Pro+ Compact is one of the best USB shotgun microphones. It is the best addition to the already existing USB shotgun microphones on the market. You can not only use it by connecting to camcorders and DSLR cameras but also without cameras just by connecting it to audio recorders. This feature is a plus treat for voice-over artists as they don’t need any camera. Its unique features and robust mounting assembly make it one of the top on-camera shotgun microphones in the USB category.
The most important feature with which you can take this mic anywhere or anytime is its power choices. Firstly, you can use lithium-ion batteries LB-1, which are rechargeable. The second option is that you can use 2×AA batteries. And the third option is that you connect it to a micro USB cable for continuous power. So you can easily switch to other options if any of them is not available. Therefore, the battery problem is out of the talk in the case of the Rode VideoMic Pro+ Compact shotgun mic. The built-in battery door makes it super easy to replace the batteries.
If you are a pretty busy person or forget things, then it is a strong possibility that you forgot to turn On the mic before recording. Or maybe you will also fail to turn it Off after recording. But don’t worry, it’s the best USB microphone also because it has the best automatic power function. You have to plug the pin in the camera or recorder, and it will turn On. And unplugging it will automatically turn it Off.
One more best feature is that the cord is detachable. So if it damages or the pin is not working, replace it with a new one. Furthermore, in most models, Rode provides hybrid Analog/USB options for connectivity.
To avoid low frequency and unnecessary sounds, it has a 2-stage high pass filter. Also, a high-frequency boost will provide a more clarified sound. This mic has a 3-stage gain control with a +20DB function to amplify the recorded audio with more clarity. Its windshield design and Rycott lyre suspension add to the quality of the mic.
The advanced safety channel prevents the signals from clipping off if unexpected spikes happen. Although it is a little too pricy, it justifies considering its specs. If you are a beginner or a hobbyist, you should not invest in this high-end model because it is best suited for professionals.
What do we like?
Automatic power switch.
Multiple power/battery options.
Digital switching function.
You can replace a detachable cord if the original cable is not working.
If you are a beginner but want to work professionally and test your skills too, yet not ready to invest in a high-end product, this USB Shotgun mic is the best option. This budget-friendly model is famous because of its simple design and easy connectivity. You don’t need chords and wires to connect it with the recording device. Still, it is compatible to be one of the best USB shotgun mics.
Do you know what the best feature of this mic is? While having this shotgun mic, it’s not compulsory to own fancy DSLRs or camcorders. You can start your recording by plugging it into your android smartphones, tabs, or any device with a USB Type-C connector because it is specially designed for devices with Type-C connectors.
People who love fancy items must give this microphone a chance because they’ll love its accessories. It comes with a foam windscreen and fur windshield. So you can use any of it according to weather, preference, and comfort level. This little decorative accessory works faultlessly. It captures clear and high-quality sounds depending on the subject’s movement because these shotgun mics work correctly only when the issue is in a specific position.
The best thing is that it is light in weight to the extent that even your cell phone is a bulky device compared to this USB shotgun mic. Maybe you think that if the mic is this small in size, then how it can capture clear and high-quality sound. But no worries, as it has two built-in microphone capsules that amp up the sound capturing feature. Also, they provide the stereotype effect in the recorded sound.
BOYA also offers a 1-year warranty for this shotgun mic. So do vlogging or voice-overs without any worries.
What do we like?
DSLR and Camcorders are not compulsory.
Easy to carry anywhere because of its small size.
Light in weight.
No need for batteries.
What don’t we like?
It’s not a high-end product with sophisticated functions.
As Rode makes it, you can’t doubt its quality and features. Like any other USB shotgun mic, this mic captures the high-quality sound to become the show’s star. Rode VideoMic Pro Plus On-Camera shotgun microphone can be considered the best USB shotgun microphone. In addition to this, it is a perfect audio companion for film-making and videography.
The best feature to quote about this mic is its power/charging options. You can rely on this mic in any situation and anywhere. The reason is that it won’t disappoint you by being dead at any critical time. You can use LB-1 lithium-ion batteries (included in the package) as a power source. They are rechargeable. Also, you can shift towards 2 x AA batteries. If both of these options don’t work for you due to any reason, then you can go with a micro USB cable. So it will provide constant charging to your mic. Because of this feature, it is considered as best for DSLRs and camcorders.
The automatic power function can steal the thunder of mostly pricy models. You don’t have to check your mic before starting your recording or speech, that either it is turned On or not. Even after completing your work, there is no need to worry about turning it Off so that the battery doesn’t get dead. The digital switching feature will save you from the after-editing hectic work.
If you are anxious about the extra or undesirable sounds in your recording, this problem is solved here. The enhanced windshield shape with Auray WSW Series Custom Windbusters saves you from annoying sounds. Also, it will keep the high-frequency main sound clear.
This model is a bit pricey for beginners. However, its high quality for professional voice-over artists and filmmakers will validate its expensiveness.
What do we like?
Optimized windshield protection.
Automatic power switching.
Digital switch facility.
It needs a Micro USB cable for continuous charging.
While you do podcasts or record videos, this Rode VideoMic NTG Hybrid Analog/USB will be along with you always. You can connect the USB mic to any device, whether you use a professional DSLR or camcorder or your smartphone or tablet.
As soon as you connect the mic with any recording device, it gets powered On. To know if it is On, look at the power button light. Although it has an automatic On/Off function, if there is any connectivity issue, the light will help you track it.
It offers a wide range of connectivity options from USB-A to USB-C types. You don’t have to install any software on the device for USB connectivity; it is like icing on the cake. The package will have Rode VideoMic NTG, a Boom stand for the mic, and a headphone extension cord. The USB connector can also serve as a charging point for the mic. So, recharging is not an issue. Also, it has 20 hours of extended battery timings.
A foam wind protector is also in the pack. It will keep your recording free from unnecessary low-frequency noises. Turning the recording device volume to zero is preferable so that the mic can do its job correctly. You can extend its 1-year warranty to 10-years and enjoy it by registering with the Rode.
What do we like?
It offers multiple USB connectivity options from USB-A to USB-C type.
The Diety V-Mic D3 Pro is at the highest level in the D3 lineup. It is a USB shotgun microphone that you can plug straight into your DSLR or Mirrorless camera. Not only this, but it is also said as the world’s most competent microphone. It has a microprocessor that digitally handshake with the audio/video device you plug it into. So, it knows with which device you are using it. And that’s why you can use it with so many different devices. It can be a DSLR, laptop, mirrorless camera, smartphone, handy recorder, or even your tablet that has a 3.5mm microphone jack. Considering all these features, it is not wrong to call it the best USB shotgun microphone.
It is the world’s only microphone with a step-less circular knob gain. So, you can easily adjust it at any number between 0 to +20DB, which is like pain relief. The automatic power function turns it to stand-by mode when you plug in it but don’t turn it On. After 15 minutes, it will shut down. And whenever the camera turns On, the mic will also turn On automatically.
The next best feature is its battery, which you never have to replace because it has an internal lithium battery that you can recharge via a USB-C plug. The mic can work for 51 hours of battery run time. Whereas in standby mode, the battery time extends up to 74 hours. Besides this, you can even recharge the mic with any USB-supported power bank while it’s in use. In only 2 hours, it is fully charged.
The mic has a durable body made up of aluminum. Still, it is ultra-lightweight. So it is easy to carry this mic anywhere with you. You can easily accustom the mic’s position with an Adjustable Rycote Cold-Shoe shock mount. The foam windshield is designed to easily fit onto the mic with the shock mount clip. Pergear deadcat windshields can also help you when you expect unnecessary sounds the most.
You can put all these accessories into a protective bag, which the package includes. It’s best for people who adore aesthetically appealing items.
What do we like?
Exceptional battery timings of 50 hours.
It has an easily rechargeable battery with a USB-C plug.
Durable body.
Lightweight design.
Automatic standby function.
What don’t we like?
Rycote shock mount is a little loose and painful to adjust at a single point.
Here, another Rode player comes into the race, the Rode VideoMicPro compact directional on-camera microphone. This USB boom mic has all the top features which any best USB shotgun mic can have. You can connect it with DSLRs, Camcorders, or portable audio recorders, as these mics need a reference audio device to work. This Rode VMP compact directional provides broadcasted quality sound. It is possible due to the ½” condenser capsule with a 3.5mm mini connector offering the least own noise of just 14DB.
An 80Hz high pass filter and super-cardioid polar pattern synergistically record the high-quality sound of the subject. At the same time, it ignores the low-frequency sounds. The sound recording can also be attenuated or boosted depending upon the situation. If you are recording an interview where the subject is quite close to the mic, you can mitigate the recording level to -10DB. Likewise, when you connect with the DSLR, you can boost the level to almost +20DB. It is preferable to reduce the camera’s preamp level when attaching it with the mic because the camera’s audio is a bit low quality compared to the mic’s audio quality.
The Rycote Lyre shock mount function keeps the Rode VMP compact directional microphone protected from exterior grumbles and vibrations. If you want to use this shotgun mic on the camera, the standard-sized on-camera shoe mount fits seamlessly into the camera. Additionally, you can utilize the 3/8” thread on the shoe mount base for boom pole mounting. So, you can also use it as a boom mic. The integrated foam windscreen amps up the mic quality to avoid low noises that can make your recording sounds rough.
If you want to keep your mic alive with the battery, then you need to install a 9-volt battery in the mic. You have to buy it separately. So, to make a long story short, it is the best USB shotgun microphone considering its high-end specs.
What do we like?
An integrated foam windshield prevents low noises.
Compact design.
Light in weight.
High-quality body
It includes a thread for boom pole mounting.
What don’t we like?
It is highly priced and still includes no battery.
So now, let us conclude this long discussion with a basic summary. Suppose you are a professional podcaster, Youtuber, or voice-over artist and sincerely want to invest in a high-end sophisticated USB shotgun mic. In that case, our recommendation is to go with Rode VideoMic Pro+ Compact. As quality always comes with a price, my top pick for professionals is this one.
However, for people who want to enjoy the perks of the highly-priced USB microphone but for a little less money, Rode VideoMicPro Compact Directional Shotgun Mic is not any less than our top-picked model. You can experience the best quality sound by paying a little lower price than the first one.
Beginners who want to work professionally but can’t afford the highly-priced models can start their career with budget-friendly USB shotgun microphones. The one we have described in our article is BOYA USB-C Plug & Play Microphone. This shotgun microphone with a USB port is super friendly to learners and hobbyists. Because of this model, it is not obligatory to own hi-fi DSLRs or Camcorders. You can use it by connecting with your smartphone, and you are ready to record your Vlog.
We have reviewed some top USB shotgun mics and mentioned our recommendations according to your affordability and preferability. So to choose one will be like a piece of cake for you. You can thoroughly read each review and decide what suits you best. We hope that you’ll find our efforts helpful in determining the one for yourself.
Different microphones are meant for various purposes, so if you are unsure which mic you need, you must look at “Type of microphones“.
Top Pick
Rode VideoMic Pro+ Compact Shotgun Mic
Average Choice
Rode VideoMicPro Compact Shotgun Mic
Best Budget
BOYA USB-C Plug & Play Shotgun Mic
Why should you Have a USB-C Shotgun Mic?
USB Shotgun mic is the only master that can rescue you from the videos having distorting sounds. If you have one, it will be easy to understand that its qualities are not exaggerated. In the present era, everyone wants the technology which requires the least time to set it up. The same is the case with USB shotgun mics because the USB-C connectivity option is currently taking over the technology world.
Nowadays, every other person is thinking of starting vlogging and podcasting as it is the most adopted profession. Like every other profession, this career also has some pre-requisitions that you need to fulfill first. If you are confused about the equipment, we will help you in this scenario. The first thing you notice while watching any video or movie is its sound. No one enjoys the footage if its sound quality is not good and clear. It doesn’t matter how entertaining the video is. And to make your videos, vlogs, and even voice-overs sound clear and professional, the first thing you need after the camera is a professional mic.
I am audio engineer by profession and worked with many renowned brands. I spend most of my life in audio technology. Testing different microphones and doing research on them is my passion. I am here to spread my knowledge with readers.
7 thoughts on “Best USB Shotgun Microphones | Recording made easy!”
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This Rode VideoMic Pro+ Compact is one of the best USB shotgun microphones. It is the best addition to the already existing USB shotgun microphones on the market. You can not only use it by connecting to camcorders and DSLR cameras but also without cameras just by connecting it to audio recorders. This feature is a plus treat for voice-over artists as they don’t need any camera. Its unique features and robust mounting assembly make it one of the top on-camera shotgun microphones in the USB category.
If you are a beginner but want to work professionally and test your skills too, yet not ready to invest in a high-end product, this USB Shotgun mic is the best option. This budget-friendly model is famous because of its simple design and easy connectivity. You don’t need chords and wires to connect it with the recording device. Still, it is compatible to be one of the best USB shotgun mics.
As Rode makes it, you can’t doubt its quality and features. Like any other USB shotgun mic, this mic captures the high-quality sound to become the show’s star. Rode VideoMic Pro Plus On-Camera shotgun microphone can be considered the best USB shotgun microphone. In addition to this, it is a perfect audio companion for film-making and videography.
While you do podcasts or record videos, this Rode VideoMic NTG Hybrid Analog/USB will be along with you always. You can connect the USB mic to any device, whether you use a professional DSLR or camcorder or your smartphone or tablet.
The Diety V-Mic D3 Pro is at the highest level in the D3 lineup. It is a USB shotgun microphone that you can plug straight into your DSLR or Mirrorless camera. Not only this, but it is also said as the world’s most competent microphone. It has a microprocessor that digitally handshake with the audio/video device you plug it into. So, it knows with which device you are using it. And that’s why you can use it with so many different devices. It can be a DSLR, laptop, mirrorless camera, smartphone, handy recorder, or even your tablet that has a 3.5mm microphone jack. Considering all these features, it is not wrong to call it the best USB shotgun microphone.
Here, another Rode player comes into the race, the Rode VideoMicPro compact directional on-camera microphone. This USB boom mic has all the top features which any best USB shotgun mic can have. You can connect it with DSLRs, Camcorders, or portable audio recorders, as these mics need a reference audio device to work. This Rode VMP compact directional provides broadcasted quality sound. It is possible due to the ½” condenser capsule with a 3.5mm mini connector offering the least own noise of just 14DB.
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