Best Microphones of 2020
I've been producing video content for a while now, and in that time, I've used and tested a good number of microphones.
As with anything else, some of the mics I've used have been absolutely stellar. Others have been pretty bad. But most occupy the "perfectly fine" middle ground.
In this buyer's guide, I want to highlight some of the best microphones of 2020.
I've used each of these mics, I've tested them in various environments, and they have proven to be the cream of the crop for my audio recording needs.
You'll find microphones on this list at varying price points, the least expensive of which is barely more than $50! That means there are mics listed below for any and every budget.
Let's get to it!
Ikan Comica CVM-V30 PRO
I have to say that of all the microphones on this list, this one surprised me the most.
At just $53.99 (at the time of this writing), it is by far the least expensive mic listed here. But don't let the price fool you...this thing hits way above its weight class.
I've tested inexpensive mics before, and by and large, it has not been a good experience. That's why I typically avoid recommending microphones at this price point.
But the Ikan Comica CVM-V30 PRO is different...
When you're filming in an environment with a lot of noise, you can put the mic in low-cut mode and adjust the sensitivity adjustment to minimize all the ancillary noise.
When you're filming on the go, as I often do, the shock-resistant structural design helps keep the noise from vibrations in check.
The super-cardioid polar pattern of this shotgun mic gives you superb off-axis rejection of unwanted sounds and allows the viewer to hear the subject with greater clarity.
Truly, the audio quality I've gotten from this mic has surpassed many other microphones that cost double or triple the price - or more. In fact, the quality is excellent up to about 5-6 feet away. Not many budget mics like this can make that claim.
I create a lot of YouTube content, so high-quality audio is a must. This microphone delivers! With excellent build quality, technical specs you'd expect in a much more expensive mic, and extras like an excellent filter and travel case, you have the makings of the ideal budget-friendly mic.
Learn more about the Ikan Comica CVM V-30 PRO
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RODE VideoMic NTG
I began testing a pre-release version of the RODE VideoMic NTG about six weeks ago. I use the RODE NTG 4 for a lot of my studio work, and I was interested to see if this smaller, more portable mic could stand shoulder to shoulder with its bigger brother.
Needless to say, this mic has impressed!
Like the larger NTG 4 studio mic, the VideoMic NTG captures gorgeous, natural sound. There are various controls to assist you in doing so, including an infinitely variable gain control, a digital switch for controlling high-frequency boost and the high-pass filter, and it has a headphone output for monitoring audio.
Additionally, there is a peak decibel warning light so you can avoid distortion.
The best feature of this mic, though, is its sliding rail.
I've used RODE mics forever, and they are excellent. But my one complaint about them is that they protruded so far out from the camera that they can easily hit you in the face.
Well, the sliding rail system on the VideoMic NTG solves that problem, so if I'm shooting in selfie mode, I can slide the rail back and keep the microphone from hitting my face.
On top of all that, it has a battery that will last more than 30 hours on a single charge, it can be plugged into a USB port for recording on your computer, and it's price isn't bad at all, if you ask me - it's on sale for $249.00 at the time of this writing.
Learn more about the RODE VideoMic NTG
Deity D3 Pro
Yet another fine option for your audio recording needs is the Deity D3 Pro.
This super-cardioid directional condenser shotgun mic gives you a sensitivity range of -50dB to 28dB. It uses an on-board microprocessor that talks to the audio input it's connected with, which means it can work with your DSLR, mirrorless camera, smartphone, tablet...you name it! Basically, it's compatible with anything with a 3.5mm microphone jack. That's excellent versatility!
This mic has one of the best batteries in the business, too. You get up to 51 hours of runtime on a full charge. As an added bonus, it takes less than two hours to charge up!
The Deity D3 Pro has a stepless analog gain adjustment dial. It also has an on-board low-cut filter and a Rycote shock mount.
What all this means is that you get excellent audio (broadcast quality, in fact), that enables you to elevate the quality of your video productions.
It's priced at $199.00 at the time of this writing, so it's an excellent mid-range option.
Learn more about the Deity V3 Pro
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SHURE Lenshopper VP83F
One of the neatest features of this microphone is that is has integrated flash recording.
Just add a MicroSDHC card, and you can record and play back audio while the mic is mounted to your camera.
It has an electric condenser cartridge with a super-cardioid/lobar polar pattern for optimal audio quality and an integrated shock mounting system the helps isolate the mic from unwanted noise.
As you'd expect from Shure, this mic is well built, rugged, and offers an intuitive and easy-to-use design.
Speaking of the design, this is a small and compact shotgun mic that doesn't take up too much space or get in your way.
The high-definition audio has excellent low-end response while the single-button recording option allows you to initiate recording quickly and easily.
I appreciate that Shure integrated a headphone audio output, which makes it easier to monitor recording.
I also like how natural the audio sounds, which is thanks to its high sensitivity, low self-noise, and wide frequency range.
At $299.000 (at the time of this writing), this is one of the pricier mics on this list. However, the audio quality and features you get make it well worth the price tag.
Learn more about the Shure Lenshopper VP83F
RODE VideoMic Pro+
I've had the RODE VideoMic Pro+ in my kit for quite some time, and I have enjoyed using it with a variety of cameras in a variety of situations.
This true shotgun-style mic records super clean, broadcast-quality audio. That's thanks in part to digital switching that includes a two-stage high-pass filter that reduces low frequencies and a three-stage gain control with a +20dB functionality, which improves audio quality on DSLR and mirrorless cameras.
There is also a safety channel to ensure the signal doesn't clip with spikes occur, and a high-frequency boost to enhance the detail and clarity in the recording.
Like other mics on this list, the VideoMic Pro+ has a Rycote Lyre shock system that buffers the microphone capsule and electronics and the microphone mount.
In turn, the result is fewer vibrations of the mic that helps improve the quality of the audio recording that much more.
This mic has easy-to-use controls, intuitive operation, and excellent sound. It's simply a hard-working, lightweight mic!
Normally, all that performance would set you back about $400.00, but at the time of this writing, this microphone is on sale for just $249.00. That's not a bad deal at all!
Learn more about the RODE VideoMic Pro+
We Recommend
Gifts for Photographers Under $150 - 2021 Edition
Photo by monkeybusinessimages via iStock
Christmas is just three short months away, and that means it’s time to start thinking about the gifts you’re going to give this year.
Photographers can be notoriously difficult to shop for, though, so we’ve put together a fantastic list of ten gifts for photographers, all of which are less than $150.
With that kind of budget, you can give all kinds of gifts, from a handy photography vest to a beautiful print to a must-have filter for shooting landscapes. Have a look at these and many other options below!
Gifts for Photographers Under $150: The Vest Guy Traveler Photo Vest
If the photographer on your holiday shopping list enjoys traveling, this Traveler Photo Vest from The Vest Guy would be an ideal gift.
With this vest, your photography gear is both easy to carry and easy to access at a moment’s notice when it’s time to take a shot.
The vest has many features that make it a comfortable and functional way to carry camera gear. There’s one camera strap and two large cargo pockets that are perfect for carrying items like a lens or a flash. There are also two interior soft-sided adjustable cargo pocket dividers and nylon MOLLE loops for carrying additional gear.
There is a hydration sleeve, a convenient carry handle, and the vest is available in a variety of sizes and colors. You can add a second camera strap and a name tag (which is great for advertising) if you wish.
On top of all that, these vests are made in the U.S.A. and there’s a lifetime workmanship warranty!
Learn more about The Vest Guy Traveler Photo Vest
Gifts for Photographers Under $150: PhotoRepairPro
Why not give the gift of making old new again this year?
If the photographer on your list is anything like me, they likely have tons of old photos in boxes in the basement or the attic. Some of those photos have probably seen better days, too.
That being the case, a great gift idea is to have a photo restored to its original glory!
For $34.99, you can give your favorite photographer a repaired photo, including an online proof, a JPEG download, and two 5x7 prints of the image. You even get free shipping on the prints!
No matter if the original image is faded, has creases, or needs to be colorized, PhotoRepairPro has your back.
What's more, they'll improve portraits by removing glare from eyeglasses, smoothing skin, or even changing the background.
There are simply a wealth of possibilities for breathing new life into old memories!
Learn more about PhotoRepairPro
Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Deity V-Mic D3
With more and more photographers like myself getting into videography, the chances are good that the photographer on your holiday shopping list could stand to get a few video-related gifts this year.
Well, a great video requires great audio, and for that, the Deity V-Mic D3 is an excellent option.
This little mic offers broadcast-quality sound thanks to its low noise circuitry, extremely low distortion, and high-grade SNR. All that technology combines for top-notch off-axis sound performance.
The mic has a smart 3.5mm mic output and is compatible with any device that has a 3.5mm jack, including mirrorless and DSLR cameras, smartphones, and laptops.
Other features include one-button on/off, the ability to mount on a camera, and a 166-hour battery life off of a single AAA battery. Add in a unibody aluminum chassis for durability and you have the makings of the perfect gift for a photographer for under $150.
Learn more about the Deity V-Mic D3
Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Artbeat Studios HD Metal Print
If you ask me, one of the best gifts for photographers is a print of one of their favorite photos. It's a great way to honor their craft while also giving them a gift that truly keeps on giving!
And I know what you're thinking...metal prints for under $150 must be pretty low quality. Happily, though, that's just not the case!
Artbeat Studios is known as an industry leader for high-quality metal prints. One of the reasons for this is because Artbeat Studios’ HD metal prints have the image heat infused directly into the metal. The result is unsurpassed resolution and color vibrancy.
Metal is a gorgeous substrate for all manner and type of photos, too. The crisp, clean detail and modern look is just what the doctor ordered for highlighting a beautiful image.
What’s more, Artbeat Studios uses Chromaluxe® brand aluminum sheets. This brand of aluminum has a 3x better permanence than Kodak Silver Halide Prints and resists fading for more than 65 years. So not only is an HD metal print a great gift for this holiday season, but it’s a gift that will keep on giving for decades!
You can also customize the look of the print by choosing different finishes, surfaces, and mounts. One of the newest additions to the options list is the textured matte surface for a true fine art look.
Whatever options you choose, the result is a breathtaking and custom print that your favorite photographer is sure to love that won't bust your budget! And since Artbeat Studios won our 2020 Metal Print Shootout, you know you’re getting a high-quality product!
Learn more about Artbeat Studios’ HD Metal Prints
Gifts for Photographers Under $150: PolarPro QuartzLine 82mm ND64 Filter
When it comes to filters for photography, it’s tough to beat PolarPro…
I’ve used PolarPro filters for years and they have proven to be well-made, durable, and supremely functional filters for my landscape photography exploits.
This particular filter is a 6-stop neutral density filter with a glass element that’s made of 99.9 percent pure fused quartz. As a result of the high-quality glass, this filter ensures that you can have supreme shutter control while getting zero image degradation and maintaining excellent sharpness throughout the image.
The frame is made of highly durable brass while the glass has optical coatings that offer nearly perfect light transmission without altering the color profile.
Likewise, the glass has abrasion-resistant and hydrophobic coatings that improve resistance from scratches while making cleaning super easy.
And since this filter comes with a lifetime warranty, should something ever go wrong, the photographer on your list has the peace of mind that PolarPro will make it right!
Learn more about the PolarPro QuartzLine 82mm ND64 Filter
Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Holdfast Sightseer Small Lens Pouch
One of the best features of the Holdfast Gear Sightseer line of bags is that they are modular, so as your kit grows, your bag system can grow along with it.
Part of that modular system is the Sightseer Small Lens Pouch shown above.
These beautifully crafted lens pouches are constructed of waxed canvas and American Bison leather. Inside, the Aztec flannel fleece looks like a million bucks while providing a soft, secure environment that cradles your lens.
The outside of the pouch is weather resistant while the Aztec flannel on the interior is scratch resistant, which means your favorite photographer won’t have to worry about their gear getting wet or scratched no matter how many times they go out and shoot.
These pouches can be worn on any belt, on the Holdfast MoneyMaker, or on the exterior of the Holdfast Sightseer Bag, so there’s a ton of different ways for photographers to have their favorite lens right at their fingertips.
What better gift to give this holiday season than one that’s super functional, looks great, and is supremely versatile too?!
Learn more about the Holdfast Sightseer Small Lens Pouch
Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Ikan HomeStream 6-Inch Light With Tabletop Stand
What’s so great about the Ikan HomeStream light is that it can be used for multiple purposes. The photographer in your life can use it for studio lighting for videography work, as an accent light for portrait photography, and even as a light for taking self-portraits.
The light is 6-inches in diameter and has edge-lit LED technology for pure, clean light emission.
It comes bundled with a desktop stand and a ball head that enables you to tilt and rotate the light as needed. The included stand can be adjusted from 13.75 inches up to 21.5 inches to ensure the user has the flexibility they need to perfectly position the light.
With a color temperature range of 3200-5600K, brightness of 1050 lux at 0.5 meters, and a CRI of 95, this light puts out bright, pleasing light for any task in front of the camera.
Learn more about the Ikan HomeStream 6-Inch Light WIth Tabletop Stand
Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Ikan iLED 144 Bi-Color Flood Light
For another lighting option, you can opt to get the photographer on your list the iLED 144 bi-color flood light.
This little light is just 5.75 inches by 3.25 inches yet delivers bright, beautiful light that can be used for photography or videography pursuits.
With a bi-color LED array, this light offers color temperatures that range from 3200-5600K. It has a 60-degree beam angle, intensity dimming, and an on-board battery indicator. It’s also stackable for ease of setup with other accessories.
Learn more about the Ikan ILED 144 Bi-Color Flood Light
Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Pre-Owned Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G
If you’re shopping for a photographer that has a Nikon DSLR, this 50mm lens is an ideal gift.
This focal length offers loads of versatility. It can be used for portraits, landscapes, and street photography, just to name a few. It can even be reverse mounted (with an optional adapter) to be used for macro photography work. The 50mm focal length is also ideal for videography.
Additionally, this is a fast lens with a maximum f/1.8 aperture that enables better low-light performance. The bokeh it produces is also extremely pleasing to the eye.
Nikon lenses are well-made and durable, and this particular model is also highly compact and lightweight. This makes it a perfect all-day lens that doesn’t weigh photographers down or get in the way.
And since this is a pre-owned lens, you can save a good deal of money - perhaps enough to get your favorite photographer a second gift!
Learn more about the Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G
Gifts for Photographers Under $150: Amazon Gift Card
Totally stumped regarding gift ideas for photographers on your list?
Why not go the easy route and get them an Amazon gift card?
Though a gift card isn't exactly the sexiest gift, when the photographer in your family sees that you have given them carte blanche to get what they want, they'll be stoked!
With an Amazon gift card, they can put the card amount towards whatever they want - a new lens, a second camera body, lighting gear, a laptop - you name it!
As far as flexibility goes, there's nothing better to give a photographer than a gift card.
Learn more about Amazon gift cards