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For your mix of gaming, video calls, and podcasting, here are some excellent microphone options across different price ranges: Best Overall Value: Audio-Technica AT2020 ($99-129) This XLR condenser mic delivers professional sound quality for podcasting and is clear enough for gaming/calls. You'll need an audio interface, but it's a solid all-rounder that punches above its price. Best USB Convenience: Blue Yeti ($100-130) Super popular for good reason - plug-and-play USB, multiple polar patterns, and good sound quality. Perfect if you want something simple that works well for all three uses without extra gear. Premium Pick: Shure SM7B ($400+) The podcasting standard. Needs a cloudlifter or powerful interface, but delivers broadcast-quality sound with excellent noise rejection. Bit overkill for gaming/calls alone, but fantastic for serious podcast work. Budget Champion: Samson Q2U ($70-80) Unique because it has both XLR and USB connections. Great sound for the price, lets you start simple with USB then upgrade to an interface later. Dynamic Alternative: Shure SM58 ($100) Near-indestructible, rejects background noise well (great for gaming), though you'll need an interface. Less sensitive than condensers, so better if you have a noisy environment. Key considerations: Condenser mics (AT2020, Yeti) sound fuller but pick up more room noise Dynamic mics (SM7B, SM58) are more forgiving with untreated rooms USB is simpler; XLR offers upgrade paths and better quality potential What's your budget, and do you already have an audio interface or prefer USB simplicity?