When it comes to gaming and streaming, choosing the right microphone is crucial for delivering high-quality audio to your audience. Two popular options to consider are dynamic microphones and condenser microphones. Dynamic vs. condenser microphones are covered in this guide:

1. What is a dynamic mic?

2. What is a condenser mic?

3. Dynamic vs Condenser: Which One Is Better for Gaming and Streaming?

1. What is Dynamic Microphones:

（1）Diaphragm: It is a thin, movable membrane that vibrates in response to sound waves. When sound waves hit the diaphragm, it moves back and forth, generating electrical signals.

（2）Coil and Magnet: Inside the microphone, there is a coil attached to the diaphragm. This coil is placed within a magnetic field created by a magnet. As the diaphragm moves, the coil also moves within the magnetic field, inducing electrical currents in the coil.

（3）Transformer: The induced electrical signals from the coil are relatively weak. To amplify these signals, dynamic microphones often incorporate a transformer that increases the voltage level before outputting the signal.

2. What is Condenser Microphones:

（1）Diaphragm: Similar to dynamic microphones, condenser microphones also have a diaphragm. However, the diaphragm in condenser microphones is typically very thin and lightweight. When sound waves hit the diaphragm, it vibrates, generating an electrical signal.

（2）Backplate: Positioned behind the diaphragm, the backplate acts as a fixed electrode. It remains stationary while the diaphragm moves in response to sound waves.

（3）Electrically Charged Capacitor: The combination of the diaphragm and the backplate forms a capacitor. The diaphragm serves as one plate, while the backplate serves as the other. The capacitor is electrically charged, creating a static electric field between the plates.

（4）Phantom Power: Most condenser microphones require external power to operate properly. This power, called phantom power, is supplied through the microphone cable from an audio interface or mixing console. Phantom power typically provides a voltage of 48 volts DC, which charges the capacitor and enables the microphone to function optimally.

3. Dynamic vs Condenser: Which One Is Better for Gaming and Streaming?

The choice between a dynamic microphone and a condenser microphone ultimately depends on your streaming or gaming space. Here are some guidelines to help you make the right choice based on your streaming or gaming space:

（1）Background Noise:

• Dynamic Microphone: If your streaming or gaming space is prone to background noise or if you are in a loud environment, a dynamic microphone is a better choice. Dynamic microphones excel at noise rejection and can help minimize unwanted sounds, providing a cleaner audio capture. 
• Condenser Microphone: In a controlled and quiet environment, a condenser microphone can capture more subtle nuances in your voice and provide a higher level of detail. However, be mindful of any potential background noise that may be picked up by the microphone.

（2） Room Acoustics:

• Dynamic Microphone: Dynamic microphones are less sensitive to room acoustics, making them suitable for spaces with poor acoustics or high levels of reverberation. They can help focus on capturing your voice directly without emphasizing room reflections.
• Condenser Microphone: Condenser microphones are more sensitive to room acoustics and reflections. If you have a well-treated recording space with minimal reflections, a condenser microphone can deliver a more natural and detailed sound.

（3）Durability and Handling:

• Dynamic Microphone: If you anticipate moving or handling the microphone frequently during your streams or gaming sessions, a dynamic microphone's rugged construction and durability make it a reliable choice. It can withstand rough handling and impacts. 
• Condenser Microphone: Condenser microphones are more delicate and sensitive to physical handling. They may require more careful handling to prevent damage to the internal components.

（4）Setup Complexity:

• Dynamic Microphone: Dynamic microphones typically have a simpler setup, as they do not require phantom power or additional equipment. This can be advantageous if you prefer a straightforward and hassle-free setup. 
• Condenser Microphone: Most condenser microphones require phantom power to operate, which adds an extra element to your setup. Make sure your audio interface or mixer can provide phantom power if you choose a condenser microphone.

FEELWORLD Recommends Dynamic Mic for Gaming and Streaming

FEELWORLD PM1 dynamic microphone utilizes a pickup pattern that is the cardioid pattern. The optimal range for pickup is 3 to 15 cm. Cardioid dynamic microphones excel at rejecting unwanted background noise. The cardioid polar pattern is designed to capture sound from the front while minimizing sound pickup from the sides and rear.  where their natural isolation ensures that incidental noises, such as creaking chairs or keyboard clicks, don’t make it into the audio.

FEELWORLD PM1 Dynamic microphones adopt all-metal body are rugged and durable, making them suitable for frequent handling and rough usage. This can be advantageous for gamers who may need to move the microphone around or use it in various settings.

The FEELWORLD PM1 dynamic microphone being compatible with USB interfaces offers several benefits for users. USB compatibility allows you to directly connect the microphone to computers, laptops, tablets, and other USB-enabled devices without the need for additional audio interfaces or converters. This makes it convenient for podcasting, streaming, voiceovers, and other digital audio applications.

Conclusion:

For gaming and streaming, both dynamic and condenser microphones can work well depending on your specific requirements. If you are in a noisy environment, value durability, and prefer a microphone that requires minimal setup, a dynamic microphone might be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize high sensitivity, detailed sound reproduction, and studio-quality audio, a condenser microphone could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, it's essential to consider your budget, recording environment and desired sound quality when choosing between a dynamic and condenser microphone for gaming and streaming purposes. For a complete audio solution for streaming and gaming, check out the FEELWORLD PM1 dynamic mic.