There’s nothing quite as thrilling as singing out your favorite jams on that Friday night karaoke session. You can finally get to be a rock star you always wanted to be. But what happens you want to be the star at home before you can finally show your skill to the world? You can do what you love doing best – singing – at the privacy of your homes with a good karaoke microphone and a simple machine.
The beauty in owning your own mic is not that you get to hoard it and practice so you shine on your friends in the next open mic. Today, we have such a wide range of mics, each of which varies in quality and sound quality. From those ones with the sparkly LED lights that you let your kids play with, to the ones you can actually use on more professional scenery, like recording music or addressing a gathering. We have some that come in twos and are made such that they are compatible with most speaker systems. So if you need a replacement for that awful sounding mic that came with your karaoke singing machine, you can easily get one that’s much better.
A bad mic will have you sounding worse; it will crush your poor kids’ spirit and soil their fragile dreams of being a star, like Rihanna. This is why we’ve rounded up the best karaoke microphones out there today to help you make the best selection and shine like the star you want to be.
Top 10 Karaoke Microphones of 2019 Reviewed
1. BONAOK Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone,3-in-1 Portable Handheld Karaoke Mic Speaker
- Versatile; both mic and speaker
- Simple to use, easy to connect to
- Wireless connectivity
- Speaker is not loud enough to use for presentations
- Gives out some echo depending on how close your mouth is to the mouthpiece
- Some users complain the mic has a certain distinctive smell to it
Best 3 in 1 Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone
First up, we have the BONAOK Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone. Perhaps what makes us like this option so much is its adverse versatility. This microphone is not just a microphone; it can be used as a player, recorder and speaker at the same time, and is also duly compatible with various different singing apps. With this, you don’t need an additional external speaker. Simply turn it on and sing away.
The microphone has a two-way connection (both Bluetooth and cable). You can either connect it
To your phone with a cable or Bluetooth (to a distance of 10m), then activate the singing app on our phone. With this, plus its built-in audio and sound effect, you can listen and sing anywhere and anytime without worrying about getting tangled up.
The Bonaok also supports micro SD cards to a maximum limit of 32GB and song switch. It features a set of multi-function buttons intuitively positioned in such a way that you can easily switch between modes, sing and play music and adjust the volume. One such mode includes the echo mode, which brings that surrounding immersion effect. With its USB port, you can turn this piece into an MP3 player, play your music directly.
The Bonaok has a quick charging, lithium battery that will keep your sing time going for up to 4 hours, so why not get yours today and be part of the magic.
2. Wireless Microphone, UHF Wireless Dual Handheld Dynamic Mic System Set with Rechargeable Receiver
- Can connect wirelessly to external speakers
- Well-built with a very wide range
- Dual microphones work simultaneously, good for wide-area presentations.
- You’ll have to buy batteries separately
- The receiver has to go into mic jack (won’t work on aux)
- Some users experience a hissing sound on plugging the receiver
Best Dual Handheld Microphone with Rechargeable Receiver
The UHF wireless Dual mic system is the perfect system for the diehard karaoke fans. This is especially since it features a receiver that allows wireless connection to an external speaker that’s up to 80 M away. What’s great about this is that apart from that long-distance connectivity, it offers flawless transmission, with good signal stability (without delay or radiation); it also features an anti-howling and anti-jamming provision.
The only downside is that the receiver can only be plugged into a mic jack instead of your aux slot. Also, it’s not compatible with Bluetooth. The microphone is specifically made to be as easy to use as possible, simply plug the receiver in a mic port and play. In turn, both microphones will be compatible with the speaker system. This might come in handy for those times you want to do that duet with your buddy. In such a situation, its ideal to switch channels to 2 note b; otherwise, there won’t be any noise or sound.
Because of its wide reach, the UHF microphone can serve more than just karaoke. It can apply to a variety of functions as well, including speeches, conferences, YouTube recordings, churches or an open ceremony.
3. Singing Machine SMM-205 Unidirectional Dynamic Microphone with 10 Ft. Cord
- Cheap
- Unidirectional sound allows for more clarity
- Wide frequency responses; good for singing
- Lacks wireless functionalities
- Does not have a lot of features
- Material feels cheap
Best Corded Karaoke Microphone
It’s a known fact that wired microphones have relatively less noise than corded ones. This is because, in wireless, there is some clarity lost in transmission. Well, this next unit goes through no such struggle. The SMM-205 is regarded as the ultimate singing machine for all the live performing and recording artists. It features a 10 ft cord which directs the sound in a narrow path in such a way that there is no room for extraneous noises or sounds. Its length is also good for free movement back and forth in your karaoke space.
Since you’ll be connecting the microphone directly to your sound system, it does not need any extra batteries. The SMM also boasts of its wide frequency response and high sensitivity, which means it eliminates all those unnecessary breathing noises when singing.
Much as the SMM-205 isn’t the most feature-laden or durable microphone out there, it just so happens to be incredibly inexpensive. This makes it most ideal for kids and young children to use it as a prop.
4. Verkstar Wireless, Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone with Colorful LED
- Super cheap
- Is Bluetooth compatible
- Can play music as well as record
- Volume is a bit low for a larger gathering
- Might seem a bit colorful; if that’s not your kind of thing
Best Wireless Karaoke Microphone
Even though the Verkstar looks like a little pregnant microphone, you’d be surprised to find that it weighs just under a pound. But that’s not the most outstanding feature; the device is not only a microphone; it also doubles up as a Bluetooth speaker. You can also record your music using it, a factor which makes this the ultimate party essential. It packs a built-in 2800mAh lithium-ion battery which will have you playing your music or performing well into the night.
The unit comes with a charging cable, aux cable, audio cable among a few of the factors which make it versatile. The mic also has conveniently situated buttons, which would allow you to play/pause and skip your music as it lies wirelessly.
If you need more sound amplification, you can pair up the microphone with an aux cable. The same can be used to support other applications such as YouTube, Smule and karaoke. It also supports a TF card and aux-in. The device will easily connect with any Bluetooth device, not limited to a smart TV, iPad or iPhone so you can literally use it anywhere.
5. Fifine UHF Dual Channel Wireless Handheld Microphone
- Long-range(up to 0 feet)
- Well-made quality on each component
- Has inbuilt echo control
- Is sensitive to the plosives (T’s and P’s)
- Power switch feels a bit off
- You can switch between channels
Best Karaoke Microphone Set
With every order of the Fifine UHF microphone, you get 2 handheld microphones, 1 wireless receiver, 1 power cord, 3 audio cables, and an instructional video. And that’s not all, this wireless hand microphone from Fifine does not need the use of a mixer to transmit the signal, it features a compact metal receiver which has an even stronger anti-interference ability than plastic ones. It has a ¼ inch input that allows for an extra wireless microphone. This means that you and your extra two compadres can all sing together. Each wireless mic also has its own volume control, which makes it perfect for a trio.
The Fifine UHF dual-channel microphone also happens to be wireless. With an operating range of up to 80 feet, this microphone offers far less interference than your usual VHF microphone. The signal is reliable too so you don’t need to worry about sound being cut in during use.
The microphone also features an adjustable echo effect. From a selection of 3 different verified cables, you get cable flexibility. That means you can use this mic to perform a backload of functions. It could be a karaoke microphone, or you can use it as a speaking microphone.
6. Ankuka Wired Dynamic Karaoke Microphones, Professional Handheld Vocal Mic
- High quality, durable, metallic build
- Has foam for noise reduction
- Cord provides unidirectional quality sound and is long enough
- The wire housing is plastic; prone to crack
- May need an adapter to fit your devices
- Needs an external speaker to sound
Best Professional Karaoke Microphone
Critics will tell you that karaoke microphones are meant as playthings and for kids, but what if you need one for a more professional kind of situation? Well, this is where the Ankuka wired Dynamic microphone comes in. From its all-metal body to the super smooth touch in its really stable looking structure, this device stands tall among the higher quality microphones. Unlike its plastic counterparts, this Ankuka was built to last, completing its design with a metallic mesh head with a built-in foam layer, for handing noise reduction.
The Ankuka is unidirectional; this means that its dynamic range is greatly enlarged for ensuring an overall greater performance. It comes with an XLR 4-meter cable which can be plugged directly into a 6.35mm input. This would fully support televisions, DVDs, KTV audio, mixers, tour busses etc.
Due to its professional nature, the Ankuka wired microphone is deemed ideal for addressing any professional gathering, stage performance, family party, business meetings or even outdoor performance. Each package comes with 1 microphone, a 6.35 mm cable, a user’s manual, one windscreen and lifetime support from Ankuka.
7. BlueFire Wireless 4 in 1 Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone with LED Lights
- 4 in one functionality
- Colorful design for young kids
- Wireless connectivity
- Fm radio won’t tell which station you’re on
- Lights won’t stay on continuously
- The material of the make feels cheap
Best Karaoke Microphone for Kids
The BlueFire Wireless 4 in 1 Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone is possibly the perfect item you could gift your little Taylor Swift to set her dreams on track. Here’s why. First of all, the microphone is just outright cute, with its wide range of colors to the LED lights which spark in tune to the music; any young girl or boy would enjoy their playtime with the instrument.
But that’s not all there is to it. The most outstanding thing about it is that it has 4-in-one capabilities. Other than a microphone, the Bluefire is also a portable Bluetooth speaker, recorder, loudspeaker or mini KTV for playing and singing music anytime. Much as it’s ideally suited for 6-12 year-olds, the Bluefire is not to be underestimated. With its professional audio tuning system and processor combined by its three layers of high destiny noise reduction. The speakers on this baby work to create the most stunning KTV sound environment, as well as this amazing echo reverberation that will compliment any live performance.
Other than that, the Bluefire microphone features a built-in 2400mAH rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which will easily last 6 hours on a full charge. It has easy to use controls, with an additional TF card slot and USB port for when you want to play your music from a flash USB stick.
8. TONOR Dynamic Karaoke Microphone for Singing with 5.0m XLR Cable
- Durable metallic construction
- Clear transmission through XR cable and cardioid patterns
- Cheap yet feels sturdy
- Sounds a little hollow
- Some users complained of some crackling from the cable
- You might need to speak really close to the mic to give out better sound
Best Karaoke Microphone with Metal Handle
With the TONOR Dynamic Karaoke Microphone comes the promise of a system with a cardioid pickup pattern. What this does is it offers greater grain while at the same time minimizing background feedback. This feature from Tonor, in turn, translates to an overall better quality of sound; in fact, some users claim it sounds as good as other hundred dollar ranging microphones. That said, other than karaoke, it would do good for recording vocals or even acoustic guitar. It can also come in handy at weddings, interviews or church situations.
The dynamic microphone is made of premium quality hard metal to ensure its long life. The metallic construct makes it more resistant to impact and more durable in the long run. It is also relatively easy to set up, requiring no battery to operate. Simply plug it into your system and switch push up the on/off switch, and you’re good to go.
The Tonor is wired, featuring a 15 ft cable that connects directly to your amplifier or mixer. The cable is constructed in such a way that it is able to isolate all the external electromagnetic interference, leaving your sound sounding clearer. The microphone comes with all the right essentials including, a cable, a foam mic cover and an instruction manual.
9. Mockins Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone
- wireless; Bluetooth enabled
- quality design
- lots of color choices
- a bit hard to maneuver between microphone and speaker
- some users experience echo at high volumes
- makes some noise when close to a phone
Best All in one Karaoke Microphone
This is the all-time, all-in-one microphone that you will need in all your functions. It is a handheld microphone, as well as a portable Bluetooth speaker. Although it’s considered to be a karaoke piece, the Mockins wireless Bluetooth microphone still has what it takes to handle public speaking functionalities like addressing seminars and small conferences. It features wireless Bluetooth connectivity with which it can connect to other Bluetooth devices.
The microphone is light despite its bulky appearance and is ergonomically tweaked to reduce numbness or hand fatigue. Compared to other similar microphones, this one has higher capacities to tolerate background noise and interference. With this, you can enjoy clear, high-quality audio. Seamlessly talk, sing and record with your mic at your own leisure.
From its sleek design to its wide array of colors to choose from, this karaoke microphone would serve kids, teens and adults alike. The mike has a range of controls for easy control, which you can use to skip, play, record, remix or scan FM radio. It includes a USB slot and a cable and a recording audio cable.
When it comes to quality, the good people at Mockins are so confident about their product that they offer you a lifetime warranty. So if it doesn’t live up to your expectations, you can always get your money back.
10. Kity Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone
- lightweight and easy to use
- durable aluminum alloy material
- wireless for easy portability
- relatively more costly than most on the list
- some users claim that it’s not too clear
Best Stylish Karaoke Microphone
The Kity wireless microphone is exactly as it sounds; cute and stylish by any fashionable standard. It is made from an aluminum alloy which gives it an overall sleek appeal. The material is also durable enough to survive through the kid’s drools and ‘accidental’ falls. Kity has the latest Bluetooth technology built-in for easy wireless connectivity which is compatible with all Bluetooth enabled devices, including iOS and Android devices.
Besides Bluetooth connectivity, Kity also supports cable USB connection. Simply plug in your phone on the other side of the cable, launch your singing app and play away. You can even plug in a USB stick and play your music directly. In addition, the microphone has two inner-magnet loudspeakers, which will help project your voice in the best possible way so you can say goodbye to all the wired microphones. With this, your voice comes out clearly above the artist as you sing along to your favorite jams.
With the multi-function buttons on its side, you are free to adjust the volume, music, echo and PA/R. You can also switch back and forth between songs. The echo length effect is particularly a favorite because it brings with it supper surround feeling with immerse enjoy. The mic is lightweight and easy to hold with a touch befitting both adults and 4yr+ kids.
How to Choose The Best Karaoke Microphone – The Ultimate Buying Guide
Microphones can be a vital tool when recording sounds. They are often the difference between high-quality sound recordings and substandard quality sound. They also amplify sound, meaning it’s important to choose a mic that makes you sound as clear as possible. We have highlighted a few key elements necessary when choosing a reliable microphone to help you in your selection.
Common Terminologies
While on your quest, there are some common terminologies you’ll need to know in order to get an overall better understanding. The first you may encounter is cardioid Microphone. This is a microphone that is able to reject sound coming from its rear or sides and only collect sounds coming from the front. Cardioid microphones are preferred, especially when dealing with a noisy environment. This is literally any karaoke or bar scene.
The next feature common to most microphones is the frequency range. Here, the bigger the frequency ranges, the better the microphone. When it comes to singing, the optimal range would be between 80 – 150 kHz. Scientists and sound engineers have found that human voice sounds best within this range. If you go lower than this, the microphone captures more bass and percussion sounds, which would spoil the karaoke.
Type of Microphone
There are 2 main types of karaoke microphones you can choose from karaoke; either wired or wireless microphones. In modern times, the most common are wireless microphones, which mainly use Bluetooth technology. They are preferred because, firstly, they eliminate the possibility of getting tangled by the cord. They are also more convenient and easy to set up because Bluetooth is incorporated in most modern devices like Ipads and smart TVs. Simply connect directly to your device, and sing away. You can also use such microphones with programs like YouTube or other karaoke apps
On the other hand, we have wired microphones. These ones are more suitable if you don’t have a problem with having a cord to your microphone. Much as they may seem less convenient (which they are), corded microphones tend to provide narrower, unidirectional sound, which translates to clearer sound output. If you are stuck between the two, you can opt for a combined model that has both wired and wireless properties. Such microphones are more versatile.
Other than the two main types, you’ll also encounter them broken down into individual functionalities. These include;
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TV Microphone
As the name suggests, these are the microphones you connect directly to your TV. Safe to say, they don’t work on just any TV set. Most operate through wireless connectivity therefore you’ll need a smart TV that has Bluetooth. TV microphones are not as common nowadays, thanks to the fact that most tablets and most mobile phones can offer the same functionalities.
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IPad Microphone
These ones, on the other hand, you’ll simply plug into your tablet or iPad. For the best results, you might need to install an additional app. Most connect through Bluetooth, which means that they are relatively easy to set up. For this reason, Ipad microphones are the most common in today’s market. The only downside is, if the iPad’s Bluetooth fails to work, then the microphone won’t work either.
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4-in-one Microphones
This type of microphone often comes as one single microphone that can perform many different functionalities. Most of them are stand-alone; Bluetooth enabled and can double up as a portable speaker as well as a recorder. Some even serve as FM players. With these microphones, you can jam to your favorite music from your phone or favorite FM station from anywhere.
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Microphone Stand
Yes, a microphone stand is a type of microphone as well. This includes a whole system that incorporates a mike within it. These systems are usually great because they are fine-tuned to suit karaoke purposes. They are also compact and much easier to store.
How is a Karaoke Microphone different from Other Microphones?
A karaoke microphone typically is just like any other microphone out there. It can be used for audio performances, in a PA system and studio recordings. However, there are a few characteristics that make them ideal for karaoke. These include the ease of use, lightness, and wireless properties.
Compatibility; Ensure that it is Compatible
Perhaps the first thing any new buyer needs to know is that each independent microphone comes with a different output. You’ll find some which are wireless, yet others require cables. Others require an adaptor to function.
You will need to consider all these in detail, and choose your microphone, with regards to the equipment that you already have in place. Some need an additional mixer, yet others come with their own receivers that will connect the microphones to an external speaker. It’s advisable to look for one that is easiest to use, with lots of output methods. An example is those microphones with USB sticks are receivers.
USB sticks have an advantage because they can be used with most computers. Microphones that are AUX compatible or with an XLR cable will also work with most mixers and sound systems.
What is the Standard Size of a Karaoke Microphone?
A standard mic is usually about 10 inches long and 3.5 inches thick. We also have the mesh ball that covers the mic, which is often about 5 inches thick. These dimensions are almost standard throughout most microphones since they are meant to easily fit into a standard microphone stand.
You can, however, find special microphones made for small kids, which are made narrower for easy holding.
The Number of Microphones; the More, the Merrier
Most units come as either one microphone, or as a set of two microphones. Some come with a receiver that allows for the introduction of another extra microphone, which you can buy separately (provided that it’s compatible of course). Well, since karaoke is more fun when you do it with friends, you’ll definitely be better off with a dual pack.
It’s important to note that most dual microphones need an external speaker work; therefore, if you are buying it for your personal use or for your child, you may opt for the cheaper single microphone with all-in-one features.
How do I Connect My Microphone to My Computer for Karaoke?
There are two types of jacks that are commonly used in computer connections; the rounded ones where you usually fit your headphones, and USB jacks. Professional microphones tend to use XLR type cables or a jack that is thicker than the ones for your headphones.
In this case, you would need an adaptor, which you plug into your computer input and play away.
Size and Weight
Not all karaoke microphones are made the same. They come in different shapes and sizes. To get the most out of the overall experience, you’ll need to get one that fits in your hand most comfortably.
When it comes to weight, the material tends to have the most significant impact. The ones made of plastic tend to weigh the least. The other alternative would be aluminum or metallic microphones which are more durable, but significantly heavier.
That said, you can base your selection on who you are buying it for. If it for small children and teens, you can get one that is relatively smaller and weighs less. Anything that weighs between 250g to 350g should be okay. However, for the more grown-up audience, you will definitely need a larger, sturdier alternative.
Price – Does the Microphone Fit Your Budget?
Although the microphone’s specifications may seem amazing on review, they might not hold up in the long run. The quality and durability are mostly influenced by the type of materials used in making it and the process of manufacturing.
Often you can only tell if the microphone lives up to your expectations by listening to it. However, in most cases, pricing is usually proportional to quality. Therefore the higher-end microphones that are better built tend to be pricier than others.
That said, for personal use, the highest quality microphones on our list would be anything between 25$ and 40$ (before shipping and import fees). If you are looking to buy one for a more prominent institution like a bar, you can invest in one that goes for about 100$- 300$
When it comes to purchasing with regards to price, you should also consider such factors as how often you’ll be using it, or for what purpose. If it’s for kids, or parties happening once in a while, it would be wiser to get a low-cost mic. Some come with more than one microphone and would serve a larger group, so you’d do well to consider one of these if you have friends coming over often.
Conclusion
A karaoke microphone is one instrument that is sure to bring joy to any home. Since it’s prone to accidents and falls, a good one should be durable enough to retain the quality of sound and general output. That said when buying a karaoke microphone, one of the most important factors to consider should be the nature of use.
If you intend to use it for a more casual, once-in-a-while kind of situation, you can choose a simpler and cheaper, all-in-one cheaper option. However, if you intend to use it for more serious professional recording purposes, you should definitely spare a few more bucks and invest in the sturdier, higher quality build. With our guide, you’d be certain to find one that is suited to your particular preference, and we hope it will bring you or your loved ones the joy you seek.