1. Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Cardioid Condenser Microphone The Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ is a great USB condenser microphone known for delivering clear sound reproduction and being easy to use.

Don't rely on the wimpy microphone built into your phone or laptop. Here's how to find the best USB (and XLR with USB) mics for gaming, podcasting, and recording music, including our top-tested picks.

Condenser microphones tend to be more sensitive ... so you could just call them USB microphones. Conventional microphones have an analog connection such as XLR that requires a microphone amp ...