Engadget
Why you can trust us

Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products.

Razer's $50 Seiren Mini microphone is ready for aspiring streamers

It promises 'studio grade' sound in a compact (and cheap) design.

Razer

A quality microphone is important if you’re going to reel people into your livestreams, but the price and sheer size of many mics might lead you to put off that purchase. Razer is betting that it can make decent mics more accessible, though. It just introduced a Seiren Mini mic that promises “studio grade” sound in a compact shape (6.42 inches tall) for just $50 — less than the cost of a typical new game.

The USB-based Mini isn’t as elaborate as other Seiren mics, but still includes a supercardioid pickup pattern to reduce ambient noise as well as a 14mm condenser capsule to produce “crisp and accurate” sound. There’s also a built-in shock mount to minimize desk vibrations, and a tilting stand to keep the mic in position.

The tiny Seiren is available now through Razer’s site and other retailers. It’s not going to be mistaken for the premium boom mics that some streamers use, but that’s not really the point. This is more about providing a good-enough upgrade from a headset mic, particularly if you’re tight on space. It might also be a viable option for budding podcasters who want to dip into the category without splurging on equipment.