There are many reasons why you might want to invest in a computer mic. Probably the most common reason nowadays is for use in VOIP applications such as Skype, MSN/Live Messenger, Yahoo Messenger and Google Chat. Other popular uses are for voice recognition software, online gaming, recording music and podcasting.

Different Types of Computer Microphone

There are two main types of computer microphones available. These are headsets and desktop microphones. We have chosen to exclude built in microphone arrays that often come with laptop or netbook computers as they are bundled in and cannot to purchased as additional items. Both headsets and desktop microphones have advantages and disadvantages as outlined below and are designed for very different uses, although any decent computer mic of either type should be suitable for all types of basic applications.

Headset Vs Standalone Microphone

Firstly it should be pointed out that any microphone (even a built-in one) should be sufficient for basic web chat via Skype or another program, so make sure you don’t splash out on a new mic if you don’t need it. Having said that the quality of external microphones is orders of magnitude better than those bundled in with a cheap Notebook PC.

Headsets – best for online gaming, web chat and voice recognition

Computer headsets are very popular and available in a variety of prices and sizes, as well as in both wired and wireless models. They are perfect for speech to text programs such as Dragan Naturally Speaking where having your hands free to utilize other aspects of the program is helpful, as well as online gaming where you will definitely need your hands free. They will come with either a USB or standard 3.5mm headphone and microphone jacks to plug directly into your computers soundcard. We would recommend getting a USB headset for ease of use on a variety of machines.

Dedicated Microphones – best for podcasting and high quality music recording

Dedicated, freestanding computer microphones on the other hand are very  popular with those podcasting. They give a bit more flexibility than a headset (allowing you to turn away from the mic to cough or speak to someone) and also give greater control over the sound you can capture by altering the distance between your mouth and the mic. They also tend to have higher quality components which is important for both podcasting and also music recording. They are available either with stand USB cables, or the more expensive models with standard studio connections, which then require a converter box to send the audio signal to the computer.