Microphones for computers can be used for a variety of different purposes. For basic needs, a cheap microphone will get you set for online VOIP (voice over IP) communication with applications like Skype or MSN messenger. If you are looking to record, you will need a slightly more advanced setup which will be discussed.

You will find cheap microphones (about $10) online which can be plugged into the line in port on your soundcard. You can configure volume and other settings by double clicking on the speaker icon on your taskbar (next to the clock). This will allow programs such as Skype to detect your microphone and allow you to begin internet conversations straight away. These microphones are usually low quality, but it is all that is needed for basic uses.

If you wish to record, you will be able to attach any professional microphone (such as a Sure SM58) to a professional sound card, such as a Roland Edirol. You will need a sound card centered around recording purposes, as connecting these microphones to a standard line in port will provide low quality which is not suitable for recording. You may also find that you will get a lot of interference when using your line in port.

Computer microphones will either come as a single mic unit, or as a headset. The headset, if connecting via USB, may in some cases act as your sound card. It is your choice whether you want to go the headset route, or the standalone unit route. These microphones can range over a large price range, all dependant on the quality you are looking for.

Some laptop computers come with an internal microphone. To test this, you can open the Windows Sound Device properties, and check if it is receiving and audio signal. If it is, then it won’t be necessary for you to purchase an additional microphone unless you want better quality, or you wish to record music. With that being said, a small percentage of speaker sets also come with this functionality. Microphones for computers can be found and purchased online for very lucrative prices.