The main difference between a condenser mic vs a dynamic mic is that a condenser mic is better for capturing high-frequency sounds while a dynamic mic is better for capturing low-frequency sounds.
Both types of mics have their advantages and disadvantages, so it depends on what you need to use the mic for.
If you’re looking to stream games or other audio content, you’ll generally want to use a condenser mic because it will give you the best sound quality.
Dynamic mics are better suited for live performances where you need to capture the sound of a whole room or an instrument.
Let’s further explore which between a condenser mic vs a dynamic mic is better for streaming.
How Condenser and Dynamic Mics Work
The first thing that you should know about is how these two microphones work.
How a Condenser Microphones Works
A condenser microphone works by using charged metal to generate sound.
When you speak into the microphone, your voice vibrates the charged metal, which produces an electrical signal.
This electrical signal is amplified and sent to your computer or another device.
How a Dynamic Microphones Works
A dynamic microphone uses a magnet to generate sound. When you speak into the microphone, your voice vibrates the magnet, which produces an electrical signal.
This electrical signal is amplified and sent to your computer or another device.
Advantages and Disadvantages of a Condenser Mic for Streaming
Let’s take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of a condenser mic for streaming as follows:
Advantages
The main advantage of a condenser mic is that it can capture high-frequency sounds better than a dynamic mic.
This is because the charged metal in a condenser mic vibrates at a higher frequency than the magnet in a dynamic mic.
This means that if you want to hear sounds with a lot of detail, such as your voice or music, on your gaming chair with speakers, or on your cat ear headphones then a condenser mic will give you the best results with cleaner and brighter sound.
Another advantage of a condenser mic is that it’s more sensitive than a dynamic mic, so it can pick up subtle sounds than other microphones.
Disadvantages
Using a condenser mic for streaming has its disadvantages.
A condenser mic is more expensive than a dynamic microphone and more prone to damage with its delicate mechanisms.
A condenser microphone also needs a source of power, unlike a dynamic mic.
Advantages and Disadvantages of a Dynamic Mic for Streaming
There are streamers who have a dynamic mic as a streaming preference. The following are the advantages and disadvantages of using a dynamic mic for streaming.
Advantages
A dynamic microphone for streaming has the advantage of delivering audio with less background noise.
This microphone is designed to block out additional noise like the humming sound of your air conditioner and the clicking of your keyboard.
The microphone will highlight only your voice, making it ideal for recording live shows.
A dynamic mic is also less expensive and more durable than a condenser mic.
Disadvantages
Using a dynamic mic for streaming has its disadvantages. For instance, when it comes to audio quality, the condenser mic delivers better audio quality.
Dynamic mics have limited features that only pick up sound from the top. So if you are streaming with someone else, you will need to get an additional microphone for the joint sessions.
With a dynamic mic having less sensitivity to the sound you would need to move closer to the mic or else your voice will sound distant.
Condenser Mic vs Dynamic Mic Application
Each type of microphone has its intended use. For condenser mic and dynamic mic, the following are the usual activities where you will see these mics being used:
Condenser Mic Uses
Condenser Microphones are usually used for :
- Music Recording – If you plan to record music, using a condenser mic will give you the best results. This is because it captures all the subtleties and nuances of your voice or instrument.
- Podcasting – A condenser mic is also a good option for podcasting as it creates a clear and bright sound.
- Live Streaming – If you are doing a live stream with commentary, a condenser mic will also work well to capture your voice.
Dynamic Mic Uses
A dynamic microphone is best used for the following activities:
- Singing – If you are planning to use the mic for singing, a dynamic mic will work best. This is because it can handle high sound levels without distorting the audio.
- Speech – If you are doing a presentation or speech, a dynamic microphone will also be a good option. This is because it can reduce background noise and focus on your voice.
- Gaming – If you are streaming your gameplay, a dynamic microphone will also be a good option. This is because it can reduce background noise and focus on your voice.
Other Types of Microphones used for Streaming
Other types of microphones are used for streaming that might suit your preference as follows:
“Shotgun” Microphone
A “shotgun” microphone can be an option for streaming if you don’t want your microphone to be seen on camera.
It’s also a good choice if you’re stream does not require extra movements.
Lavalier Microphone
A lavalier microphone for streaming can be a good choice if you are looking for a more affordable option.
A lavalier mic is also less intrusive as it can be clipped onto your clothes.
This type of microphone is best used for interviews and vlogging.
Webcam/Headset mics
Webcams or headset mics are widely used for streaming as they are more affordable and easy to use.
The audio quality of these mics is not as good as the other types of microphones but they can still get the job done.
Conclusion: Which Microphone is Best for Streaming?
Overall, a condenser mic is one of the best choices for streaming compared to a dynamic mic.
A condenser mic can pick up finer details making it ideal for live commentary. It delivers better audio quality than a dynamic mic which you can enjoy while listening to it using your headset.
A condenser mic is also more sensitive to sound making it ideal for picking up your voice even when you are far from the microphone.
But if you’re a novice streamer you can still experiment using a dynamic mic because of its affordability and see how it works for you.
